Well, I am 236 pages into the Tad Williams Dragonbone Chair. I have to say he uses simile extremely well! I have had quite a few amused smiles at how he uses words, and at his similes. He tends to use nouns as verbs occasionally. The protagonist couldn't 'unpuzzle' something.
It is following the standard plot for the classical quest story. Lazy kitchen and stable boy, (Simon) tall for his age, red hair, clumsy. Beloved king on his deathbed after 80 years of peace and plenty. Eldest son under the influence of an evil priest. Second son kind, unassuming, good-hearted.
Disaster at the castle. Simon escapes after harrowing underground flight.
The story draws me back, so that is good; and I really enjoy William's use of language.
So, so good!
Shot 40 on the front this morning, then crashed to a 48 on the back. Still, 88 ain't bad for a 75 year old not particularly athletically gifted.
Take care...