Gossamer Axe

This pagan lesbian rock and roll fantasy is one of the best books I've ever read. Sadly it's far and away the best thing Ms.Baudino (one of my faves) ever wrote. I've read it at least six times and it is one of the three books I buy up every copy I see and pass out like trick or treat candy. It is the story of Christa, an ancient pagan druid harper in modern day colorado. And her quest to use heavy metal to free her lover from the clutches of The Fey. The music scenes are realistic as is the human interaction. I reccommend this book to anyone who likes pagans, heavy metal, or lesbians

I am very saddened to learn that this book is no longer available in print. It is without a doubt one of the best books I have ever read, and is well worth the time it takes to search it out.At the begining the premise seems a bit strange; a 200 year old Celtic harper forms a heavy metal band in order to save her lover from her fairie prison? As bizzare as it may sound, this is the truth. Christa's lover is imprisoned in a land where music can be used as a weapon, and only music can set her free. After several attempts to free the lover using her harp, Christa decides that only rock and roll is strong enough to win this battle.Social issues of the 80s are addressed clearly; drugs, alcohol, rape, abuse, homosexuality, the church, and people's misconceptions of rock and roll music. A word of warning, there is some strong content here, and it may not be sutible for younger teenagers.Musicians will find this book especially interesting. The theory is all there and correct, everything from modes to circle of fifths. Do whatever you have to to get your hands on a copy of this book!

This book somehow manages to be both highly entertaining, truly innovative, and deeply profound. The storyline--ancient Druid learns to play heavy metal in order to rescue a long-lost love--sounds almost silly, but Baudino makes it plausible and fun. The exploration of such themes as family ties, sexuality, and religious oppression is done with a light and even hand--though Christians may find themselves a little offended by the (mostly realistic) portrayal of Christianity. Pagans, homosexuals, and anyone who has ever felt like an outcast will find this book to be a healing spiritual experience. I don't suppose I really believe in a Goddess, but when reading Gossamer Axe I felt touched by Her hand. The amount of love and tenderness that Baudino put into this book is truly amazing.

G.Boudimo is one of the most versatile writers, this book is not only enchanting it is totally captivating. Never in my life did i feel more alive than after reading this book. Amazing and out of this world, talented to say the very least.

Even though I don't understand enough music theory to really grasp more than half of the "color" imagery swirling around the axioms of magic used in this book, I have to say that this is one of my all-time favorites. Ever since I got my copy almost a decade ago, I find myself coming back to this book over and over again, rereading favorite parts, and visualizing them vividly. The very idea of a bard from ancient Ireland blending the magic of legendary harpers with heavy metal music grabbed me immediately. Baudino takes that idea and expresses it through quiet but powerful characters who work through their tragedies and flaws to come out triumphant -- and gracious in triumph. And the climactic battle sequence has to be one of the best in all modern "urban" fantasy.