Cast in Shadow

Cast in Shadow (2005) Michelle Sagara

I picked up this book for several reasons. First, because I’ve been impressed with the Luna books I’ve read. Second, because I have read several short stories written by Michelle Sagara West, and very much liked them. I put off reading this book because of the cover. Not that I dislike the cover, only that from the cover it seemed like an urban fantasy, which I’m less frequently in the mood for.

This book isn’t urban fantasy. It’s set in another world, not our own, with magic substituting for technology, but with lots of swords and daggers. And I really like the world she created.

Kaylin fled the fiefs as a child, hard on the heels of a series of murders. She joined the Hawks and has worked to solve crime and keep the peace since she became old enough to do so. However, the murders have started again, and Kaylin is being sent back to the place she swore never to return.

There are different races, the closest comparison I can think of is Steven Brust‘s Draggera, however there are significant differences. This is a very different world from Draggera, but I enjoyed it just as much. And I found the different races fascinating, including the idea that mortal and immortal races could live with any degree of harmony and without any one group dominating the rest. Must be a fascinating history that got the to that place.

I really liked this book, for a variety of reasons. Strong characters, good writing, and a story that sucked me in almost immediately. We learned about the world as the story went, as well as about Kaylin’s past, and both are fascinating. Although there is quite obviously a sequel, the story is sufficiently wrapped up by the end of the book, which is always important.

And despite the fact that it gave me the wrong impression, I really like the cover. It gives you the essence of Kaylin, and hints at the world where she lives. Whoever is in charge of covers at Luna is really doing a fantastic job.

This is an excellent book, that I very much enjoyed. Although it’s printed by Luna, it’s not what I would consider a romance, although there are romantic themes, and there’s enough sword bashing that I believe most guys will enjoy it as well.

If you like good fantasy–especially fantasy with strong female characters (my favorite)–you’ll enjoy Cast in Shadows
Rating: 9/10

• Browse the archives:
  
• Hunter’s Oath » »
• « « The Assassin’s Edge