Knights of the Sword
Overview
Knights of the Sword is the third book in The Warriors series of the Dragonlance universe, written by Roland Green. This entry shifts focus to the Order of the Sword, the Solamnic branch devoted to both martial excellence and divine service.
Following the journey of Sir Kerianseray (Kerian), a devout knight with a fiery past, the novel blends battlefield action, personal redemption, and spiritual discovery. It explores the struggle of upholding faith and courage in a world still reeling from chaos and betrayal.
Main Character: Sir Kerianseray (Kerian)
Kerian is a former mercenary turned Knight of the Sword, known for her fierce demeanor and unwavering devotion.
She carries deep emotional scars from her past, which fuel her drive for justice and inner peace.
Kerian’s arc centers on balancing divine purpose with personal healing and rising above doubt to become a true paragon of her Order.
Supporting Characters
Sir Pirvan – Now a seasoned knight, Pirvan serves as both ally and moral anchor for Kerian, continuing his own journey from earlier novels.
Haimya – Pirvan’s wife and an adept swordswoman, she brings insight and compassion, playing a key role in Kerian’s evolution.
Clerics and Knights of the Sword – Each represents a different facet of divine calling, from blind zealotry to enlightened compassion.
Enemies of Faith – Raiders, political agitators, and twisted zealots threaten not only the realm but the soul of the Knighthood.
Setting
Set in the troubled regions of Solamnia, the novel journeys from besieged temples to battle-scarred villages and sacred sites of the Knights of the Sword.
The settings are spiritual battlegrounds, each a test of faith and strength. From sunlit chapels to shadowed strongholds, the landscape reflects Kerian’s emotional journey.
Plot Summary
Kerianseray, now sworn to the Order of the Sword, is sent on a mission to investigate disturbances that threaten the peace of Solamnia. What begins as a military operation soon uncovers a deeper crisis—one of faith, loyalty, and personal reckoning.
As dark forces rise and her past resurfaces, Kerian must confront the wounds she tried to bury. With the support of Pirvan and Haimya, she learns that true strength lies not in rage or vengeance, but in grace and wisdom.
In a climactic confrontation, Kerian faces a corrupted leader who has twisted divine purpose into tyranny. Her victory comes not just through steel, but through moral courage and spiritual clarity.
Themes
Faith in Action – The novel emphasizes that belief must be lived, not preached, especially in the face of darkness.
Redemption and Identity – Kerian’s journey is about shedding shame and becoming who she was meant to be.
Service and Sacrifice – The Order of the Sword stands for service above all, a principle Kerian comes to embody.
Justice vs. Vengeance – Kerian’s inner struggle between retribution and righteousness drives the story’s emotional depth.
Tone & Style
Knights of the Sword is introspective and emotionally resonant, with bursts of high-stakes action.
The prose is clear and direct, but layered with spiritual reflection. It blends gritty realism with noble aspiration.
Reception
The novel is praised for:
A strong, nuanced female protagonist.
Expanding the Order of the Sword beyond battlefield stereotypes.
Balancing action with heartfelt character development.
Some critiques:
Less magical and grandiose than other Dragonlance entries.
The introspective tone may feel slow to readers craving epic scale.
Final Thoughts
Knights of the Sword is a stirring, thoughtful tale of faith tested and courage redeemed. Through Kerianseray’s journey, it reminds us that even the fiercest warriors must sometimes lay down their pride to lift others up.
A fitting tribute to the Order of the Sword, it’s a tale of service not only to the gods, but to truth and to the self.
Recommended for:
Readers seeking character-driven spiritual fantasy.
Fans of strong female leads and internal transformation.
Those curious about the divine dimension of the Solamnic Knighthood.