“Mary wished to say something very sensible, but knew not how.”
Jane Austin - Pride & Prejudice
What am I reading right now? The Black Jewels Saga
So I claim to be a big reader. That’s certainly no lie, but work has been so flat out lately that I don’t have time to read anything new. After working 8am til 6pm my concentration levels are really low, so I don’t want anything complicated right now. This makes things difficult because the thing I love to do most when I get home from work is lose myself in a good book.
How have I combated this dilemma?, I’m sure you are asking. Well, I am re-reading a story that I truly love, Anne Bishop’s “The Black Jewels” saga. A friend recommended them to me a couple of years ago and I haven’t looked back. What is it about? Here is a brief synopsis:
The world has prostituted honour and sunk into degradation. The way of life has been twisted until that which held the people together now tears it apart. Men and women live in fear of each other and can see no way out. Thankfully there are some who dream of a better life; some who remember the glory of the old ways and hold true to their honour. They remember that the first rule is not obedience, but to honour, cherish and protect. A Queen is born who they would not be ashamed to serve. They do everything in their power to protect this young Queen from the horrors and dangers of the world. Unfortunately that is not always enough…
So why do I love this story so much? Not only are the novels full of interesting, vibrant characters, they also make me pause to reflect upon the interactions between men and women. Although our society is so different from that in this story, there are many similarities. I cannot help but grin when the women grumble about being fussed over, and the men push the boundaries under the guise of protecting. The subtle give and take between the sexes reminds me of my own relationship with my partner, and how important compromise is to us both. Lavishly sensual, richly detailed and fascinating, it is so very easy to lose yourself in this fantasy world.
For a fantasy novel, Anne Bishop’s ‘Black Jewels’ saga is really not that bad. I could rave about it until the cows come home, but I won’t. Instead I will sit here quietly and read until my heart’s content.
Good night all and happy reading!
