The Curse of the Dragonslayer has as its protagonist a young squire from the Kingdom of Gothrond who finds a powerful weapon that can only be wielded by someone chosen to be the dragonslayer. To get the weapon, the squire must kill the dragon Amagus. Unfortunately, as the dragon expires, the squire becomes cursed; if his rightful name is ever spoken, he will surely die. Sadly, he knows he must never go back home and must leave Gothrond never to return. On his way out of town, he meets Nobbin (an elf) and Rosewood (a female vegetarian). They are also unable to go back to their homes for various reasons. The three friends set out on their search for the Dragons Gate to find it and seal it before scores of dragons come back to once more enslave the world.

Keith A. Shaw does a good job of inventing another world and making it believable. The plot of the novel moves at an appropriate pace. The dialogue between the characters flows naturally, and the descriptions of the first meetings between the three friends are particularly well-done - especially the scene where Rosewood feeds Nobbin and the squire the stew with no meat. Any carnivore who has been served vegetarian fare can relate. There are ample touches of humor throughout the story.

The Curse of the Dragonslayer is a great way to pass some time. Give it a read and have some fun.