Author: Robin LaFevers
Reading level: Ages 14 and up
Hardcover: 560 pages
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children; 1 edition (April 3, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-13: 978-0547628349
Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?
Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.
Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?
Check out the book trailer (awesome!)
My thoughts:
A classic read, I was immediately sucked into this one. Written as if one were living in the 12th century, Ms. LaFevers did a fantastic job of recreating the old language and dialogue of ancient times. It isn't like reading a story someone wrote about the 12th century, it's like hearing a story from someone while you're in the 12th century. I loved it.
The dialogue was unbelievable and the plot kept me guessing till the very end. Filled with intrigue, mystery and thrills, this title is definitely going to be huge. I can see a movie here folks. Yes, it was that good.
Ismae is outstanding. Her character is one in which most all women can identify, if only in some small way. But the power she wields is seductive at it's very best. Her death skills were enough to make me want to take some lessons in self-defense. Hoo-rah!
This is a read I would recommend to adults as well as YA. I thought the politics would turn me off, but the opposite happened. I found myself hanging on to every little detail, strategy and execution.
If the book trailer doesn't convince you about this one, take my word for it. It's definitely worth the time and nail-chewing you're gonna do. I can't wait for the next installment in this heart-pounding series.
Self-proclaimed Southern Duchess
