I typically have a great admiration for Peter's writing. However, this particular work simply didn't resonate with me.

Each chapter is penned from different characters' viewpoints and presented in the first person. The story unfolds at an excruciatingly slow pace, making it a real struggle for me to even begin to understand what was happening.

Unlike his other books, this one lacked the fluidity and intrigue that usually keeps me hooked. I've been grappling with it for an extended period, perhaps years, constantly picking it up and then putting it down.

I've restarted it from chapter 1 at least three times, hoping that maybe I was just in the wrong frame of mind. But each time, it failed to hold my interest.

The long intervals between my reading attempts meant that I pretty much forgot what had happened previously, and I had to scan through the already-read chapters, which only added to my confusion.

I suppose if this book could have captured my full attention from the start, it might have made more sense. But unfortunately, I just didn't have enough investment in any of the characters, nor did I find them or their world and struggles interesting enough to truly care about their goals. In the end, I just couldn't get into it.

I really liked the world building in this story. It has a certain charm that makes you want to explore more. However, I have to admit that maybe this world is a bit fuzzy around the edges. For example, you might come across a word like "sheknath" on a map. But what on earth, if you'll excuse my boldness, Master Beagle, is a sheknath? And a rock-targ? It makes you wonder and perhaps even feel a bit of unease.

I also appreciated the use of multiple narrators. It adds depth and complexity to the story. But the fuzziness and blending together of identities can be a bit confusing at times. And then there's that scene in the room where more than just identities get blended. Let's just say it's a bit of a mystery and leave it at that. Cough.

Most of the characters seem to be rather harsh on Karsh, the titular innkeeper. But as the story progresses, we realize that he is more sensitive and more complex than we first thought. He has his own secrets and struggles that make him a more interesting and relatable character.

Peter S. Beagle is truly a remarkable author. His works are always filled with interesting elements and never follow the beaten path.

This particular book, for instance, commences with the captivating "Innkeeper's Song". It presents the entire plot in a condensed form, as a folk song, which immediately grabs the reader's attention.

Subsequently, the story unfolds through first-person chapters from various viewpoints. This narrative technique is executed beautifully, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat, never able to predict what will happen next.

However, despite the engaging nature of the story, I found myself not entirely close to the plot. This is a feeling I've had with all of Beagle's books so far.

Nevertheless, I still have a great appreciation for his works. There is something about his writing style and the unique worlds he creates that keeps drawing me in, even if I don't always feel an immediate connection to the plot.

Overall, Peter S. Beagle's books are a must-read for any lover of literature, offering a fresh and exciting reading experience.

The consequences of three strange women stopping at an inn are vividly recounted in alternating chapters. Lal, a sailor and swordswoman in search of her old mentor, shares her perspective. Lukassa, who was inadvertently raised from the dead by Lal, also has her story told. Nyateneri, a woman being pursued by assassins, adds another layer to the narrative. Tikat, chasing his lover Lukassa, and Rosseth, the worshipful stable boy, contribute their own viewpoints. The Fox, Nyateneri's mysterious shape-changing companion, and Karsh, the bitterly singing innkeeper himself, along with the other curious inhabitants of Karsh's inn, all have their roles to play.

The Innkeeper's Song is a rich and complicated tale. It features the most wonderful description of pigeons, courtesy of the Fox: rumblysoft. I have a great love for Beagle's The Last Unicorn, but this story is even better. It surpasses The Last Unicorn, if only because The Last Unicorn lacked a foursome. This unique aspect adds an extra element of intrigue and excitement to the story, making it truly captivating.