The Forgotten Beasts of Eld was published before Patricia McKillip’s The Riddle-Master of Hed (1976), the first book of her Riddle of Stars trilogy (1979 as trilogy; also known as the Riddle-Master trilogy), for which she is probably best known. Like the trilogy, The Forgotten Beasts of Eld overflows with elements typical in fantasy: fabulous, mythical animals; powerfully magical wizards; and kings, princes, and wars. To this familiar fantasy background, McKillip adds a host of distinctive and all-too-human characters. The rich, poetic language does not overwhelm this story of love, betrayed trust, revenge, and, above all, taking responsibility for ones actions. All the characters, including the beasts, display conflicting loyalties and motives as they struggle to attain their innermost desires while trying not to hurt those they love.

McKillip’s fantasy novels are noted for their excellent characterizations. The Forgotten Beasts of Eld allows for exploration of the souls of all the characters. Even the emotional motivations of the villains are somewhat understandable. Drede is driven by fear to try to entrap Sybel, but his devotion to his son is evident. Coren remains hopelessly in love with Sybel even when she tampers with his thoughts and manipulates him as if he were another of her captured animals. Sybel herself seems remote and aloof, far removed from the turmoils of the feuds outside her mountain oasis, but she is also drawn into a fray of tangled emotions when she allows herself to feel love, first for Tam, then Maelga, then Coren. She must learn to deal with both the benefits and strengths, as well as the vulnerabilities and risks, of forming relationships. Readers can identify easily with these believably inconsistent and often confused characters, who love and hate and love again.

Reviewers have also commended McKillip’s compelling style of storytelling in this novel. McKillip herself has stated that she was a storyteller for her younger siblings before she ever began writing. The Forgotten Beasts of Eld draws the reader into an increasingly complicated web of political and emotional intrigue. Tantalizing hints are dropped that each of Sybel’s animals could tell a story of its own, giving the novel a rich backdrop and a mystical ambience that is maintained throughout.

Although McKillip did not write The Forgotten Beasts of Eld specifically for children, it is usually classified by booksellers and librarians as a young adult novel. Reviews were favorable, although some reviewers objected to the somewhat flowery language and imagery. The novel received the World Fantasy Award in 1975.