In the second novel set in the “darkly fascinating world” (SF Site) of Anne Bishop’s Black Jewels Trilogy, ambitions unfurl as the realm’s dreams of a liberator have finally been made flesh…The Blood have waited centuries for the coming of Witch, the living embodiment of magic. But Jaenelle, the young girl singled out by prophecy, is haunted by the cruel battles fought over her—for not all the … her—for not all the Blood await her as their Savior. Some dismiss her as a myth. Some refuse to believe. And still others look forward to using her, making her a pawn to their shadowy devices.
Only time and the devotion of her loyal guardians have healed Jaenelle’s physical wounds. But her mind is fragile, barely able to protect her from the horrifying memories of her childhood. Nothing, however, can deflect her from her destiny—and the day of reckoning looms near. When her memories return. When her magic matures. When she is forced to accept her fate.
On that day, the dark Realms will know what it means to be ruled by Witch.
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Anne Bishop has created a fascinating world, full of characters who are not always wonderful, but certainly intense and intriguing. (My favorite invention of hers is a magic-craft-created storage space, from which you can call any possession you have stashed there, without having to look for it!) The story is by turns joyous and grim, with some images you may not wish to have in your mind and others that will be fond memories. The world is governed by a queen, with the help of a circle of women advisers, and the protection of male consorts. There is cruelty as well as nobility, loving as well as forced sex. If I remember right, this is the middle book in the trilogy.
Also written in this world is The Invisible Ring, which I have read many times. If you are not ready to tackle this trilogy, I heartily recommend it as a good book in itself, and a great way to enter this world.
I enjoyed the continuation of the story and am eager to read the next. Be ready to immerse yourself.
Oh my gosh. I thought I did a review for this series. It is BY FAR my most favorite go to reread series. I can’t even guess at how many times I’ve read this
Unique characters involved in nitty-gritty life. A fantastical world with multiple races and magic underpinning everything. All of them people you like or hate but mainly want to.know.
The first book in this series sets a high standard for the follow ups. And they all deliver! If you like rich fantasy worlds that alter your views, then this series is definitely for you! Start here and clear your weekend because you’ll want the next two books immediately!
I generally like Anne Bishop, but the beginning of this turned me off too much to continue.
Love all of Anne Bishop’s stories.
Not bad. Decent plotting.
This is a great series. Be warned, it is also a brutal series and the violence/cruelty can be more than some readers are interested in.
Great read, from beginning to end.
Nice fantasy book, great base for her series.
To me, it hit all ranges on the emotional spectrum. There were only a handful of moments where I could tell what was coming, but not the how or why of it. Made it one of the best books I’ve ever read.
I love this series. This is the second time that I am reading them. Its a great world with a caste system that is based on Queens and those that serve them. Your power is based on what color of jewels that you ware.
About a haunted young woman who will become a queen and the three men who love her. The Father, Brother, and Lover. I couldn’t put it down! This is the second book in the series. Read “Daughter of the Blood ” first. Enjoy!
I love the entire series.
This is an excellent book with a story line that draws you in. An excellent beginning to an awesome series and world.
The Black Jewel Series was amazing..I am an avid reader and that series is on my top 5 list. Totally unusual and unexpected….I cared about the characters and I hated when I was done with the series..it was like losing allot of friends.Love it.
Very slow