Sanctuary
Overview
Sanctuary, written by Paul B. Thompson and Tonya C. Cook, is the first novel in the Elven Exiles trilogy within the Dragonlance saga. Set after the War of Souls, it follows the plight of the Qualinesti and Silvanesti elves—scattered, broken, and forced into exile by betrayal, war, and the collapse of their homelands.
This is a novel of displacement and endurance. It begins the arc of a scattered people searching not just for refuge, but for meaning and identity in a world where the gods are silent and alliances are thin.
Main Characters
Kerianseray (Kerian) – A fierce, seasoned warrior known as the Lioness of Qualinesti. She leads a band of elven refugees with stoic resolve and protective ferocity.
Gilthas Pathfinder – Once a puppet ruler installed by the Dragon Overlords, now a free man seeking to unify his people and redeem his legacy.
Alon – The son of Kerian and Gilthas. As a young half-elf, he represents the bridge between old traditions and new beginnings.
Solamnics and Local Powers – Allies and obstacles alike, representing both potential aid and deeply rooted prejudice against elves.
Setting
The story unfolds across devastated landscapes in western Ansalon. The elves are nomads in foreign lands, living in refugee camps and hostile territories where resources are scarce and welcome is colder.
Every location—from isolated valleys to burned forests—is infused with loss, but also a tenuous hope for sanctuary.
Plot Summary
After the cataclysmic loss of Qualinesti and Silvanesti, elven survivors flee across Krynn. Led by Kerian and Gilthas, they must find a place to rebuild, all while facing pursuit from Nerakan forces and mistrust from humans.
Gilthas seeks sanctuary in the human lands, while Kerian struggles to maintain order and morale among the refugees. The camp becomes a symbol of both hope and friction, as cultural tensions rise and supplies dwindle.
The novel builds to a political and personal confrontation: Will the elves survive as one people or splinter under the weight of their history?
As Gilthas begins tentative negotiations for land, and Kerian holds off external threats, they realize that their true sanctuary might not be a place—but the ability to remain united.
Themes
Exile and Displacement – The novel centers on the trauma of losing one’s homeland and the struggle to survive in unfamiliar lands.
Leadership in Crisis – Both Kerian and Gilthas must lead fractured, fearful people while coping with their own doubts.
Tradition vs. Adaptation – The exiled elves must choose whether to cling to the past or embrace change.
Family and Legacy – Through Alon, the generational effects of war and migration are explored.
Tone & Style
Sanctuary is somber, reflective, and steeped in empathy. The narrative blends political tension with emotional depth, leaning heavily into character development.
The style is accessible and balanced, merging thoughtful dialogue with action rooted in survival and sacrifice.
Reception
Praised for:
A fresh focus on elven cultures in decline and transition.
Strong female protagonist in Kerian and nuanced portrayal of Gilthas.
Building a compelling foundation for the trilogy.
Some critiques:
Slower pacing due to political and interpersonal focus.
Minimal magical elements compared to other Dragonlance novels.
Final Thoughts
Sanctuary begins the Elven Exiles trilogy with gravitas and grace. It’s not a tale of grand conquest, but of quiet strength, cultural survival, and the courage to lead when everything has been lost.
Recommended for:
Readers interested in post-war recovery and political rebuilding.
Fans of character-driven fantasy.
Those curious about elven resilience and reinvention in the world of Krynn.