Jacqueline Carey’s novel “Kushiel’s Dart”

I first learned of this series from Felicia Day’s blog some months back and have only recently gotten around to reading it.  I am halfway through the first book and I must say I am impressed by the author’s voice and style.  It comes off successfully as a period piece, but it strength is in it’s cultural focus without coming off as a sociological or anthropological textbook.  You are quickly invited to care for the lead character, and even if you don’t share the protagonists proclivity you are given enough internal dialogue to see where she is coming from.  Although not a sex/adult novel, there are, however, scenes not fit for younger eyes.  As a fan of fantasy and sci-fi I am reminded of the Drizzt Do’Urden tales from R. A. Salvatore when he is exploring the Menzoberranzan matriarchal society for the reader.  For fans of romance novels they may find a home in this series and be introduced to a much higher quality of writing than they may find in Harlequin romances, but with a similar appeal.  For those of an interest in all things non-vanilla you may also find this series to be your cup o’ tea.

Jacqueline Carey is currently best known for her Kushiel Trilogy (Kushiel’s Dart, Kushiel’s Chosen, and Kushiel’s Avatar), based in the fictional country of Terre d’Ange in a period similar to 14th-15th century Provence. Her style is a cross between alternate history and magical realism that delights readers everywhere and has inspired a “Cult of Phèdre” of book-lovers who have gotten tattoos based on the books to show their fandom; some even dream of living their life as the main characters. Ms. Carey was nice enough to take time out of writing her upcoming duology, Banewreaker and Godslayer, and the much-anticipated Imriel Trilogy to answer a few of our questions. For more information on upcoming releases, and the author herself, visit her website. (Beth Oing, 08mar04, article link)