Good read, interesting plot, interesting societal construct. Gay and bisexual characters abound, which I like because, after all, if one can create worlds with magic and wizards and such, surely gay people can be there too?

But this world has politics and intrigue as its center point. Romance too, though no graphic sex so it's safe for kids. Well, safe for teens anyway.

On another note, this has precursor flavors of later work by Lynn Flewelling, Fiona Patton, and Storm Constantine. I recommend it.

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I read this novel for the 2010 fantasy challenge and felt that it was a most entertaining read. The hero is Richard St. Vier who falls in love with Alec, the scholar, who is in reality Lord David Alexander Tielman Campion. St. Vier is an accomplished swordsman with a reputation for discreet murders ordered by nobles who wish to satisfy their honor for various reasons. St. Vier is nothing but thorough and discreet, protecting the reputation of the nobles who hire his services. However, it is inappropriate for him to satisfy his own honor because his own heritage is unknown at best. When Alec is kidnapped, St. Vier satisfies his own honor to protect Alec who disappears of his own volition. St. Vier is arrested for the murder of the noble who kidnapped Alec and is put on trial. The minor characters are almost as interesting as St. Vier and Alec, all of who play a role in the trial. Will St. Vier's life be spared? Read this charming adult fairy tale and see for yourself.

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A beautifully written fairy tale for grown-ups. The story of swordsman Richard St Vier and of the aristocracy that hires him to take care of their 'matters of honor'.

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One of the best fantasy novels I've read.

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