6 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a beautifully written story of love, magic and transformation reminiscent of a fairy tale. Most contemporary adult
fantasy is written on an epic scale with multiple tomes of five-hundred pages or more. It was refreshing to be able to read
the entire book in one day.
The world building is a bit sketchy, but that's the tradeoff for keeping the story simple by sticking to one main plot
and a few characters. These characters are well enough drawn to be interesting through not terribly complex. Aubrey is almost
always cheerful and kindhearted, Lilith dispassionate, and Glyrenden temperamental.
Sharon Shinn has a true gift for story telling. This slender novella is actually my most favorite of her books, for it's simple style. She never over explains, it's just charming and romantic.
4 member(s) found this review helpful.
This book was a bit predictable - some heavy handed foreshadowing, but was an enjoyable quick read. Interesting plot and very rich prose, vivid and totally immersed in the world of the plot. Set in a kingdom where the royal courts have sorcerers. A talented young wizard apprentices with the master of a special skill - shape-changing. This was a gothic romance/fantasy. Had lots of the same elements as a traditional gothic plotline - sense of danger, setting in an isolated country mansion, class distinction, gender differences, all very similar to a typical suspense novel.
3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Wonderful book. It felt much like a fairy tale story, not too slow, yet not too fast. There's vivid details that can put you right into the mood. It's a short read and well worth it.