002 - Evil tidings come to hand at Cleveland

In a captivating tale that laid the groundwork for modern high fantasy, Hallblithe, a brave warrior of the House of Raven, embarks on a daring quest to rescue his kidnapped troth-plight maiden, the Hostage. Captured himself, he finds unlikely companionship with the giant Puny Fox as they set sail for the Isle of Ransom. Their journey leads them to the enchanting Land of the Glittering Plain, where Hallblithe must choose between the seductive offer of eternal youth and the hand of the Kings daughter or the unwavering pursuit of his beloved. Originally published in 1890 in the English Illustrated Magazine, this story was later reissued in 1973 as the inaugural volume of the esteemed Newcastle Forgotten Fantasy Library. This recording is drawn from the beautifully printed 1891 Kelmscott Press edition, featuring stunning illustrations by Walter Crane. (Phil Benson) - Summary by Phil Benson