Excellent read from an author at the very top of her form. Clever, thorough world-building with no sacrifice of character. Leaped straight to the top of my all-time favorites list of books to re-read. Not going to re-post this one, sorry! It's a keeper.

Weeks after finishing this book I still find myself remembering these characters, their lives and interactions. Great book.

What a great book!
It reminded me to put everything by Bujold that I haven't read on my wishlist!
Engaging characters meet an action-filled plot with tons of plotting and intrigue. I have to admit that this kind of "castle intrigue" is definitely one of my favorite genres of novels. I'd very much recommend this to fans of George R.R. Martin and Guy Gavriel Kay.

My edition came with blurbs from Robert Jordan & Dennis McKiernan, and an ad for the latest Weis & Hickman - all of which, I must admit, I eyed with trepidation, not having an overly high opinion of any of those authors - but although this is undeniably epic fantasy, Bujold's writing far exceeds those other authors. I read the first chapter on my way to work - and after just that one chapter, the main character stayed in my head all day - I couldn't wait to read more. And today at work, I must admit, I had the book at my desk, sneaking a page here and there at opportune moments.... wink.gif

Cazaril, a high-born military man who, through an act of treachery, was sold as a galley slave, has finally escaped - but barely with his life. He comes crawling back to the great house where he was employed in his youth - and, unexpectedly, finds himself in the position of tutor to a young princess, Iselle, and her handmaiden Betriz. This seemingly peaceful job may entail more than one might expect, however, considering the chaotic state of politics both within and without the kingdom of Chalion - and an evil curse that hangs over the royal family.

Wonderful story with great, human characters. Absolutely love Bujolds writing style - she is an experienced and talented storyteller. Loved the backround, especially the unique religion. I can't wait to read the second book Paladin of Souls.

I love this author's first forays into fantasy from science fiction. The theology of this world is rich and complex and real and blends seemlessly with the fantastic magic.

If you like well-developed characters, this book has them. The first 175 pages is spent solely on character development and providing history on Cazaril, the unlikely hero of the story. It makes for very slow reading, but the book does pick up by page 200.

This is a non-traditional fantasy. There is no magic; instead, Cazaril's world has a very dominant, active religion, where miracles happen.

The book's ending is happy but predictable.

Fun, well-written book...I enjoyed it.

Very good fantasy... but I still like her Miles Vorkosigan books better ;)

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I enjoy all of Bujold's books and this one is my most favorite of all.

This is a well written story that kept me reading well past my bed time. Ghosts and gods and warriors and good guys and bad guys. I enjoyed reading it.

Well worth reading.

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