Barrenlands (original 1998; edition 1998)

The neighboring countries of Solvany and Therand have long been separated from each other by an almost impassable wasteland known as the Barrenlands. Created by magic, the rift strips sanity from any non-royal person who steps across its boundary without special dispensation from one of the royal families. Getting trade goods from one country to the other has evolved into a tidily profitable market for a few brave traders willing to make the long and treacherous journey through the mountains to the east. Tradition has it that the Barrenlands keep peace between the two countries, but when tentative negotiations seem to spell the end of centuries old hostility, it threatens a fragile balance -- and a profitable sideline. Solvany's king, and the majority of the royal guard are slaughtered. The question of just who is to blame takes Ehren, the only surviving guard, on a journey that may cost him his life, or, if he's lucky, gain him something more precious.

A good story which starts with a bang and then lags a bit. Although clumsily plotted in places, it shows promise. I was reminded of Mercedes Lackey's early series. I will definitely look for more from this author. ( )