The Firebird’s Vengeance

The Firebird’s Vengeance (2004) Sarah Zettel

The Firebird’s Vengeance is Sarah Zettel’s third book Isavalta book, set soon after the events of A Sorcerer’s Treason. Bridget Lederle is contacted by the Vixen, who warns Bridget that the Firebird is coming to take revenge upon Isavalta and Hung-Tse. She also poses an enigmatic question about Bridget’s family, that leads Bridget to wonder whether her daughter is, in fact dead, or whether she was instead stolen as an infant. All the while Bridget is learning to master her magical skills.

Although things were resolved in A Sorcerer’s Treason, there were still some questions left unanswered, and this book addresses some of those questions: What happened to Kalami’s daughter after Kalami failed in his mission for Hung Tse? Does Bridget become trained in her magics? What happens to Sakra? Does the Firebird make it back between the Shifting Lands?

This book focuses upon Bridget and Sakra, and Kalami’s daughter Tsan Nu and her guardian Mae Shan. Although Ananda and Mikkel make brief appearances, they are only peripheral to the plot. It is interesting, though, to see Mikkel facing the hard decisions of ruling, and comparing his decisions to those made by his mother.

Like A Sorcerer’s Treason, this book is a good book, and I was glad to read more about Bridget and Sakra. The only weakness, in my opinion, is that Kalami was far more on dimensional in this book. That may be due to the fact that he was dead, however I found him more interesting in A Sorcerer’s Treason. That doesn’t mean, however, that he isn’t dangerous here.

I also liked the return to Aunt Grace, who played only a small part in the A Sorcerer’s Treason. She is an interesting character, with her past hovering over everything she does, and I like the fact that she does care about Bridget, despite the pressure of those around her, to write Bridget off.

Again, a strong story, and strong characters. I wouldn’t recommend reading this book before A Sorcerer’s Treason, because although Sarah Zettel does explain the background of the characters, it’s good to know Sarah’s background and her story.
Rating: 8/10

• Browse the archives:
  
• Lion of Ireland » »
• « « A Sorcerer’s Treason