Endowed with all the markings of a memorable introduction read, Karen Azinger's The Steel Queen, brings viewers into Erdhe, a dream imbued kingdom ripe with intrigue, knights, bravery, swords, sorcery and pure evil. |As the premier publication inside her Steel and Silk Saga, this publication serves as an introduction into the medieval kind lands of their kingdoms of Erdhe, together with its various participating inhabitants.
The narrative participates immediately immersing the reader in a complexly woven narrative, which houses plenty of diverse and special characters. The female characters endure particular appeal due to their determination and adorable in a universe where their location is restricted by male dominance.
Foremost, the narrative, especially follows the paths of many focal personalities; Katherine/Kath, a young princess whose deepest desire is to direct and wield a sword. Blaine, son of a pig guy who makes a seemingly hopeless knighthood. Steffan, a dark personality who attempts power at any price and Liandra, queen of Lanverness who seems to conserve her rich kingdom. Meanwhile, events unfold, with the narrative told in their multiple viewpoints with the story changing perspectives often, as every moves toward their fate. At the same time, bettering the character woven narrative, are short looks of additional engaging personalities. Although, originally, it appears the characters are on different paths, using their own goals to attain, destiny orders differently as a malevolent force in the office threatens all Erdhe.
Hence, what follows is a fun, mature themed, lively and sometimes very violent, but well paced story, that artfully investigates the sensual, bureaucratic, and spiritual landscape of a dream world facing the core of darkness.
Finally, I liked The Steel Queen. On this particular work, Writer Azinger has wrought the joys of an interesting and so much, fulfilling fantasy collection. What's more, while there are an array of fantasy genre books available, what distinguishes this one from the a number of the others is the caliber and type of the writing and imagination. Writer Karen Azinger wields a nicely honed bent for engaging and succinct storytelling.
In addition, apart from the excellent story, I enjoy the addition of this map of Erdhe along with the Appendix describing the history of different kingdoms. That is a novel I recommend for fantasy lovers, but also lovers of eloquently written, action packed experiences.