Enchanted World is a collection of the art of Anne Sudworth that encompasses a variety of styles. The book is split into a series of five themed chapters:

Chapter One: "Of Fantasy and Reality" contrasts rich landscapes with still life and racehorse studies.
Chapter Two: "Of Leaf and Tree", is (as you might expect) a series of studies of trees and forests.
Chapter Three: "Of Dragons and Dreams" show an increased fantasy theme with paintings of mythical beasts, fairies and wizards.
Chapter Four: "Of Spirit and Stone" revolves around structures. These include castles, stone circles and ruined abbeys.
Chapter Five: "Of Vision and Views" includes a wide range of landscapes and fantasy scenes.

The artworks included in this book are, in the main, stunning. Personally I was most impressed by the works included in Chapter Two. The studies of trees and forests show an intriguing use of lighting that gives the images a moody and mysterious feel. Sometimes the source of the light is obvious, the moon shines from between the branches of the trees. But in others the lighting seems to be generated from below, illuminating the undersides of the branches and giving the scenes an ethereal quality.

Then there are the buildings and structures in Chapter Four. I love stone circles so a series of paintings of some of the UK's finest examples seemed to have been included with me in mind. Anne Sudworth's painting style evokes the inspiring and breathtaking qualities that I feel when visiting stone circles. There is a particular timeless quality to this work that epitomises the spiritual nature of these ancient monuments.

Overall, if I consider all of the artworks included in this book I would have to say that my personal preference would be for the fantasy images rather than those featuring racehorses or the still life studies. To whittle my preferences further I would have to say that I prefer the images that do not feature people.

If I were forced to pick one image from each chapter to hang on my wall it would be as follows:

Chapter One: "Buttermere". This delicate painting of the fells around Buttermere brings back memories of the Isle of Lewis in the early morning. The mist gives the mountains and lake a peaceful, ethereal quality.

Chapter Two: "Inifri Duir". This was a difficult decision as I loved most of the paintings. However, "Infri Duir" just took my breath away. Again, the use of light is key to this painting. The golden glow highlights the twisted trunk silhouetted against the dark background. If I look at this picture and just let my imagination run riot I can almost feel something watching me from the darkness.

Chapter Three: "The Snow Dragon". OK, this was a little easier. Everyone who knows me knows that I am a sucker for dragons. But what drew me to this particular painting? Simple. The basic construction of the painting appeals to me. Although this is entitled "The Snow Dragon" the small figure of the dragon is secondary to an exquisite icy landscape. The use of colour (blue mountains and a yellow moon) really makes the viewer experience the sub-zero temperatures.

Chapter Four: "Castlerigg Stone Circle". This was possibly the easiest choice. As soon as I opened the page to "Castlerigg" it was a "gimme". The stones are depicted in partial darkness with the light from the full moon highlighting the very tops of the stones. The picture makes me want to hold my breath just in case I disturb the peace of the scene. Awe inspiring.

Chapter Five: "Stealing Sacred Fire". This was another difficult choice as there are so many wonderful paintings. However, I found that this particular painting had a timeless spiritual quality. I suppose it also helps that I love the series of books that it helps to illustrate.

Now, in case you think that this book is nothing more than a catalogue of paintings, I must mention the text. Each chapter gives an insight into the creative process behind the particular paintings featured. In some cases working concept sketches are included to illustrate this creative flow and it is intriguing the see how a simple sketch develops into the finished article.

As well as the commentary by John Grant, the text also includes direct quotes from Anne Sudworth and this gives an even deeper insight into the development of the final painting. However, unlike some art books I have read, the text serves to enhance the enjoyment of the images rather than overwhelming them. In this book the editors have struck a perfect balance between words and pictures.

I had never heard of Anne Sudworth before reading this book (although my father, a semi-professional artist had apparently seen an article on her work in one of the painting magazines). However now I will keep an eye open for future publications featuring her paintings. I will also see the "Grigori" series of novels in a new light. It is quite refreshing to find a fantasy artist that doesn't resort to the usual collection of paintings of muscle-bound men and women in dramatic poses. This style of work is much more my taste.

Breathtaking and awe-inspiring paintings from an exceptionally talented artist.