Xanth · #17

Harpy Thyme

Name: Harpy Thyme
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)
Author: Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Fantasy Humor

5.0 / 10

2 ratings

Gloha was the only creature of her kind in all the wide, wonderful world of Xanth, the beautiful young offspring of a chance mating between a harpy and a goblin. As she grew to womanhood, she wondered where she would find the one true love with whom she could share her life.

So naturally, she went to the Good Magician Humfrey, to ask him for an Answer to the riddle of her heart’s desire. But Humfrey, for mysterious reasons of his own, turned down her request, propelling her instead on a perilous quest in search of truth, friendship, and, just possibly, happiness as well.

Accompanied by a colorful succession of unusual companions, including Cynthia the Centauress, Amanda the Griffon-girl, Graeboe the Invisible Giant, Marrow Bones the Skeleton, and recently rejuvenated Trent the Magician, Gloha must brave a demoness and snow dragons, malevolent clouds and musical volcanoes, on a wild and woolly odyssey that takes her not only across the length and breadth of Xanth, but on a journeys through Time, Space, and the perilous realms of Madness and Mundanity, finding the goal she seeks in the most unexpected of places…

Amazon: View on Amazon

Published: 1993

Where to find this book

Amazon Amazon CA Amazon UK Amazon Europe Kindle Audible

External links open a book search at the selected retailer. Availability may vary.

Xanth

The series

Full series details →

In the world of fantasy literature, few settings are as inventive and whimsical as the land of Xanth. Piers Anthony’s beloved series transports readers to a place where magic flows through every corner of the land, and everyone possesses a unique talent, known as a "gift." But don’t expect ordinary powers – these gifts are often as quirky, amusing, and unpredictable as the characters who wield them.

Read full series description

Xanth isn’t just a land of enchantment; it’s a realm where the rules of reality bend with playful abandon. From talking trees to magical creatures, each new adventure feels like an exploration of the unexpected. The series is known for its light-hearted humor, often punctuated by puns and wordplay that add layers of charm to its fantastical premise. Yet, within the humor lies a deeper thread of storytelling – one that explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of individuality.

The heart of Xanth lies in its characters, each with their own strange and often hilarious abilities. As they journey through the magical realm, they face obstacles that challenge not just their gifts, but their very perceptions of the world around them. Each book introduces new characters, expanding the world and exploring different facets of its magic. From the mischievous antics of the characters to the often profound dilemmas they must solve, there’s a perfect balance between lightness and substance in every page.

With over 40 books in the series, Xanth is a sprawling epic that offers something for every kind of fantasy fan. Whether you’re captivated by the whimsy of a sentient, shape-shifting fruit or the trials of characters facing life-altering choices, Xanth’s enchanted landscapes provide endless possibilities. For those who crave a sense of wonder alongside a dash of comedy, it’s a world that invites you to stay a little longer, with each new story offering a fresh perspective on the magic and mystery of life itself.

In Xanth, magic isn’t just an art – it’s a way of life, and every page is an invitation to explore a world where imagination knows no bounds. With humor, heart, and a touch of mystery, the series continues to enchant readers, leaving them always hungry for the next adventure.