Returning to the realm of Terre d’Ange which captured an entire generation of fantasy readers, New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Carey brings us a hero’s journey for a new era.
In Kushiel’s Dart, a daring young courtesan uncovered a plot to destroy her beloved homeland. But hers is only half the tale. Now see the other half of the heart that lived it.
Cassiel’s Servant is a retelling of cult favorite Kushiel’s Dart from the point of view of Joscelin, Cassiline warrior-priest and protector of Phèdre nó Delaunay. He’s sworn to celibacy and the blade as surely as she’s pledged to pleasure, but the gods they serve have bound them together. When both are betrayed, they must rely on each other to survive.
From his earliest training to captivity amongst their enemies, his journey with Phèdre to avert the conquest of Terre D’Ange shatters body and mind… and brings him an impossible love that he will do anything to keep.
Even if it means breaking all vows and losing his soul.
My Take
I decided to follow up a new (for me) book in one of my favorite romance series (A Court of Thorns and Roses) with one in favorite romance series. I was excited to hear about this book, a retelling of Kushiel’s Dart from his point-of-view and it didn’t disappoint. Given it’s from his vantage point, there’s a whole lot less sex in this one. We also learn much more about Joscelin, and get a different view of d’Angeline life. On her website — which I highly recommend you check out if you like her work — she says My litmus test while writing it was, “Does Joscelin give a damn?” If the answer was no, it didn’t go in the book. Political intrigue? Fashion? Gossip? Joscelin Verreuil Does. Not. Give. A. Damn. She suggests it as a great introduction to the world of Terre d’Ange. I can see that.