Jacqueline Carey, Naamah's Blessing

Naamah's Blessing

Jacqueline Carey

Grand Central, Jun 29 2011, $26.99

ISBN 9780446198073

After few years away, barbarian witch Moirin of the Maghuinn Dhonn accompanied by her husband Bao returns from the East (see Naamah's Curse) to Terre d'Ange. She is stunned with what she finds there. Her close friend Queen Jehanne died during childbirth and her spouse King Daniel is unfit to rule or raise his now three year old toddler since he is lost to his grief. His heir Prince Thierry (from his first marriage) is far away from the kingdom most likely dead in Terra Nova.

Over her objection Moirin King Daniel declares her as the protector of his offspring the next ruler toddler Desir e who is an infant version of her late mom. When Moirin has a vision in which Jehanne insists that Thierry lives, she sets forth to travel half way around the globe to find and bring home the Prince to his kingdom that desperately needs him. Joining the quest is her former lover Raphael de Mereliot who she distrusts as he selfishly caused her to misuse her gifts years ago.

The finish to the third Kushiel trilogy (see Naamah's Kiss) is an exciting tale that accelerates once the heroine and her retinue begin the quest. The story line introduces readers to the "Terra Nova" cultures though the indigenous people are underdeveloped and interchangeably oversimplified as seemingly from one mold. Their "new" gods and locals include some real Aztecan that anchor time and place. Fans will enjoy Moirin's latest escapades.

Harriet Klausner