The Crimson Shadow Trilogy is a great series by R.A. Salvatore. The land of Eriador is ruled by the evil Wizard-King Greensparrow. The oppressed land is waiting for some one to lead them to freedom, enter the Crimson Shadow.

Luthien Bedwyr, the son of the Eorl of Bedwrydrin, is a champion in the fighting arena. His life is good until he is forced to kill his best friend by a visiting noblewoman. Upon avenging his friend's death, he is forced to flee his home and become a fugitive. Before leaving his home island he meets up with the highway halfling known as Oliver deBurrows and becomes his partner.

On the run from the cyclopian forces of the king and nobles Luthien and Oliver are enlisted to help the Wizard Brind' Amore. Their mission is recover a magical staff belonging to the wizard. While retrieving the staff Luthien finds a magical crimson cape and folding crossbow which he keeps for himself.

Having brought back the wizard's staff, the pair are sent back on their way to the city of Montfort. Once in the city Oliver introduces Luthien to the trade of burglery where he earns the title of the Crimson Shadow (from the stain his cape leaves on walls). Then whether he intended it or not, the Crimson Shadow becomes the leader of the revolution against Duke Morkney and King Greensparrow.

The odds are against the small band of rebels and their reluctant leader. Greensparrow may have thousands of cyclopian soldiers at his beck and call, but the rebels have several surprises as well.

A wonderful series with unforgettable characters and battle scenes that put the reader right in the middle of the action. I reccomend the Crimson Shadow trilogy to anyone that can track down all 3 books.