The Dwarves by Markus Heitz 🪓 Book Review

Markus Heitz’s The Dwarves brings classic fantasy to life with a rich tapestry of characters, political intrigue, and action-packed quests. Originally written in German and translated into English, this novel stands as a testament to Heitz’s mastery in capturing the spirit of traditional fantasy while carving a unique niche in the genre.

The Dwarves by Markus Heitz

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For countless millennia, no man or beast has ever succeeded in breaching the stone gateway into Girdlegard. Until now… Abandoned as a child, Tungdil the blacksmith is the only dwarf in a kingdom of men. But when he is sent out into the world to deliver a message and reacquaint himself with his people, the young foundling finds himself thrust into a battle for which he has not been trained. Not only his own safety, but the life of every man, woman and child in Girdlegard depends upon his ability to embrace his heritage. Although he has many unanswered questions, Tungdil is certain of one thing: no matter where he was raised, he is a true dwarf. And no one has ever questioned the courage of the Dwarves.

At the heart of The Dwarves is Tungdil, the quintessential unlikely hero. Raised among humans as a mage’s ward, Tungdil embarks on a journey that not only takes him across the diverse world of Girdlegard but also into the depths of his own identity as a dwarf. His evolution from a naïve outsider to a contender for the dwarven high king’s throne provides a compelling emotional core to the story.

Tungdil’s journey is enriched by the diverse band of dwarves and other allies he meets along the way. Boindil and Boendal, brothers from the kingdom summoning Tungdil, provide much of the book’s heart and humour, although their similar names can sometimes make them blur together. Beyond these two, the group expands with distinct and often conflicting personalities, including Bavragor, Goimgar, and the ambitious Balyndis, each bringing a unique perspective on dwarven life and traditions.

On the other side of the dwarven political spectrum, Gandogar, a rival for the high king position, emerges as a complex character. Despite being influenced by violent and manipulative advisors, his fundamental desire to protect his people lends him a sympathetic edge.

While dwarves take centre stage, Heitz’s story isn’t solely about them. Human characters like the fabulous Rodario, the mysterious Narmora, and the determined Furgas bring intrigue and unpredictability. And of course, the magicians – Tungdil’s mentor Lot-Ionan and the battle-hardened Andôkai with her monstrous bodyguard Djerůn – add a layer of mystery and magic to the narrative.

The plot of The Dwarves balances traditional fantasy tropes with Heitz’s own twists, creating a story that feels both familiar and refreshing. Tungdil’s initial task to deliver artefacts to a wizard serves as an introductory “tutorial” for the reader, allowing us to learn about Girdlegard, its many kingdoms, and its peoples. While this quest feels straightforward at first, it quickly spirals into a much larger and more complex adventure.

Under the mountain, the political manoeuvring at the king’s moot is filled with tension as factions clash over the future of their people. Advisors like Balendilin and Bilsipur represent the competing ideals of peace with elves versus war, showcasing the intricate dynamics of dwarven society.

The climax of the story revolves around the creation of Keenfire, a legendary weapon necessary to combat the looming threat of the Alfar. The trials to become high king push Tungdil and Gandogar to their limits, combining character-driven conflict with thrilling action.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ensemble cast. While Tungdil is the protagonist, the side characters have their own heroic moments, ensuring the story doesn’t rest solely on his shoulders. The antagonists, particularly those tied to the mage subplots, bring a layer of betrayal and intrigue that elevates the stakes.

The English translation of The Dwarves captures the essence of Heitz’s storytelling, though some dialogue occasionally feels overly simplistic or lacking in nuance. This can make certain characters feel less dimensional in moments of tension or introspection. However, the vivid descriptions of battles, landscapes, and the forging of Keenfire more than compensate, immersing readers in the world of Girdlegard.

Heitz explores a variety of timeless themes throughout The Dwarves. Tungdil’s journey emphasises the importance of chosen family. From his upbringing among humans to the bonds he forms with his dwarven companions, his story is a testament to the strength of relationships forged through shared trials.

Classic fantasy tropes like the heroic quest, magical weapons, and artefact hunts are prominent, creating a sense of nostalgia for fans of Dungeons & Dragons or Tolkien-esque storytelling. Plus political betrayal among dwarves and mages creates tension throughout the novel, while characters like Gandogar and Tungdil grapple with questions of redemption and leadership.

The world of Girdlegard is a standout feature of the book. Heitz introduces readers to a diverse landscape populated by dwarves, humans, elves, and even the ominous Alfar, whose shadow looms large over the narrative. The contrast between the thriving kingdoms and the perilous Perished Lands adds a palpable sense of danger.

The Woodland Realm of the elves, the underground dwarven halls, and the Perished Lands teeming with orcs are richly described, creating a vivid backdrop for the characters’ journeys. However, the most intriguing setting is arguably Ogre’s Death, where political debates and cultural rituals bring the dwarves’ world to life.

Fans of classic fantasy will find much to love in The Dwarves. With its focus on a heroic quest, magical artefacts, and a richly imagined world, the book feels like a love letter to the genre. Its influences from tabletop role-playing games and video games are evident, and it’s no surprise that The Dwarves later inspired its own game adaptation.

Markus Heitz’s The Dwarves is an epic tale that successfully combines traditional fantasy elements with unique twists and memorable characters. While some aspects of the translation occasionally feel flat, the action, world-building, and intricate political subplots more than make up for it.

Positives of The Dwarves

• Tungdil’s character arc is compelling, with his journey from an outsider to a key player in dwarven society offering a relatable and engaging narrative.
• Girdlegard’s diverse settings, including the dwarven halls, human kingdoms, and the perilous Perished Lands, create a vivid and immersive world.
• The varied personalities and perspectives of Tungdil’s companions, from the humorous Boindil to the determined Balyndis, add depth and tension to the story.
• The struggle for the high king’s throne and the contrasting ideologies among the dwarves add layers of complexity.
• The combination of a fetch quest, legendary artefacts, and a high-stakes mission for Keenfire delivers classic fantasy action.
• The antagonists, including the manipulative advisors and the betrayal within the mage subplots, add intrigue and high stakes.
• Perfectly fits the mould of traditional fantasy with its focus on quests, magical weapons, and epic battles.
• While it’s part of a series, the book provides a satisfying narrative arc that can be enjoyed on its own.

Negatives of The Dwarves

• Some translated dialogue lacks nuance, making certain interactions feel flat or repetitive.
• Boindil and Boendal’s names can blur together, especially for tired readers, occasionally making it harder to differentiate them.
• The book’s initial quest may feel slow for some readers, with the true stakes only becoming apparent later.
• While the use of traditional fantasy elements is nostalgic, some may find it overly reliant on familiar tropes like magical weapons and fetch quests.
• While the antagonists are intriguing, their motivations and backstories aren’t always fully explored.
• The large number of characters and subplots might overwhelm readers who prefer a tighter focus.

This is a must-read for fans of classic fantasy, particularly those who enjoy tales of adventure, camaraderie, and political intrigue. Whether you’re a long-time lover of dwarves or a newcomer to their world, The Dwarves is a thrilling and satisfying read.

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