The Blue Sword offers a variety of characters, including a proud and affectionate cat named Narknon. Several horses are also individualized, including Sungold, a gift to Harry from the chieftain who kidnaps her, and Fireheart, his own fine stallion. Protagonist Harry Crewe, so-called because she hates her real name Angharad, is very likable, with a delightful sense of humor and with tremendous courage and endurance in times of danger and crisis. At the beginning of the tale, she is newly orphaned and living on the kind charity of Sir Charles and Lady Amelia in what is called the Residency. She has a brother, Richard, whom she loves, and she treasures memories of their childhood, when they were "wild animals together." When the leader of the so-called Hillfolk suddenly appears at her new home, her life changes. Corlath, the leader of the group, recognizes in...