The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo is an enchanting tale set in 16th century Spain. Luzia Cotado is a scullion of secret Jewish heritage. Protecting her true lineage in a country ruled by the Inquisition requires Luzia to keep a low profile. Although well-read, intelligent, and witty, Luzia must play the part of the illiterate, dull… Continue reading Review: The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo
Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse is a fantasy tale set in a world heavily influenced by pre-Columbian cultures. Four great clans reside in the holy city of Tova: Golden Eagle, Water Strider, Winged Serpent, and Carrion Crow. It is the Carrion Crow from which Black Sun's story has its genesis, beginning with a young boy… Continue reading Review: Black Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna is an original fantasy novel with rich world building and the classic hero's journey. Deka of Irfut is set to undergo her coming of age "ritual of purity" to tell if she bleeds pure (red blood) or if she has gold blood--the blood of women allegedly descended from demons.… Continue reading Review: The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna
Cursed by Thomas Wheeler (illustrations by Frank Miller) is a unique spin on the Arthurian legend in which Nimue, the Lady of the Lake, becomes the wielder of the Sword of Power and eventual Queen of the Fey. The main antagonists in this novel are the Church and the Red Paladins, Uther Pendragon and… Continue reading Review: Cursed by Thomas Wheeler
Also known as Daughter of Albion: A Novel of Ancient Britain in other countries. Skin by Ilka Tampke takes place in the 1st century AD, when the Roman Empire began to encroach upon the British Isles. Although rooted in the history and culture of ancient tribal Britain, Tampke weaves a magical element into the story… Continue reading Review: Skin by Ilka Tampke
Highland Raven (Book 1 of the Celtic Blood series) by Melanie Karsak is a historical fantasy origin story of the real Lady MacBeth, Gruoch of Scotland. I was instantly intrigued with this premise, as I really didn't know anything about Gruoch. However, Karsak's novel is much more magical and fantasy-based rather than straight historical fiction.… Continue reading Review: Highland Raven by Melanie Karsak
The Winter Witch by Paula Brackston tells the story of a magically gifted mute woman, Morgana, and her new husband by arranged marriage, Cai Jenkins. Although the back cover blurb claims this book takes place in the early 19th century, it felt almost "pan historical," and more fantasy. There are only details here and there… Continue reading Review: The Winter Witch by Paula Brackston
Read this excerpt about Arianna Martell!
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