Return to the "intense...erotic...and imaginative" (Nancy Kress) world of the national bestselling Black Jewels novels in this sequel to The Shadow Queen.For years the Shalador people suffered the cruelties of the corrupt Queens who ruled them, forbidding their traditions, punishing those who dared show defiance, and forcing many more into hiding. Now that their land has been cleansed of tainted Blood, the Rose-Jeweled Queen, Lady Cassidy, makes it her duty to restore it and prove her ability to rule.But even if Lady Cassidy succeeds, other dangers await. For the Black Widows see visions within their tangled webs that something is coming that will change the land-and Lady Cassidy-forever...
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"Continuing where the "Shadow Queen" left off, Cassidy is still learning to be a Queen to a kingdom that has been torn apart by landen wars and sadistic queens. Her court supports the new gentle queen in her quest to renew the land although they worry about her tendency to give too much of herself. Cassidy's shaky self-confidence is injured when her First Consort, Prince Theran Grayhaven, rejects her in favor of the shallow Queen Kermilla who broke Cassidy's last court. Cassidy has her own fervent supporters, not least of whom is Gray, who is growing into his role as Jared Blaed and the multiple scelties who add their considerable Kindred abilities to her court. The question is whether Dena Nehele will survive the struggle between the two disparate queens or whether it will become the vision being seen in the visions of the Black Widows. An excellent addition to the series."
— E. (4 out of 5 stars)
" Loved this! Kept me up late three nights in a row (aurgh). Every year at Anne Bishop Book Release Time, it just seems to get better and better. This one had ohhh, all the little story twists that push my emotional reader buttons, and an antagonist you just truly love to hate. This one goes on my "treasured reads" shelf... "
— Doranna, 2/11/2014" Another enjoyable Black Jewels novel. I read these books exactly for what they are - entertaining dialogue and naughty bits, with an interesting fantasy world setting. Cassidy is a welcome addition to this series, primarily because she isn't overwhelmingly gorgeous. I never regret reading one of these books, and I'm glad that Anne Bishop continues to write them. "
— Moni, 2/9/2014" I loved it, and the poetic justice at the end was just awesome. It had me smiling almost all the way through. Though I admit whenever I got to parts about Kermilla I just wanted to skip the whole chapter. I really did not like her. Another great book in the series, and another reason for Anne Bishop to be on of my favorite authors. "
— Whitnie, 2/9/2014" This book, as are all the author's books, is full of magic and beauty. Love to read books by her because they become such comfort reads, with so many scenes to be delighted with...I'm afraid of the last book in the jewels series, though... "
— Sonia189, 1/21/2014" This is book 3 of the trilogy that started with The Invisible Ring and continued with The Shadow Queen. I was thrilled to read more about Cassie's life in Terreille with Gray and the others she met there. And the ending to the story was highly satisfying in all ways. "
— Jen, 1/18/2014" A most delectable book is one where people grow into their skin. Another unique theme is that of how lust/obbsession/maybe-love can pervert one's soul and personality, that is, more. As part of this unique set of books, this one didn't dissapoint. "
— Madalina, 12/2/2013" A wonderful addition to the Black Jewels realm. This was a very engaging book with lots of great new characters, with plenty of action from favorite characters from previous books. Bishop does a great job of making it clear how this book fits into the established timeline. "
— Marissa, 11/12/2013" I still basically think she never ever should have written more books after the first trilogy in this world. But since she did, this book and the last one were pretty good again. Definitely worth reading. "
— Aaron, 11/9/2013" More well-done wish-fulfillment crack. While the romance between Gray and Cassidy is the primary focus of the novel, the things that happen with Theran are actually more interesting. His character truly evolves throughout the book, and by the end of the novel there are signs for hope. "
— Nicole, 9/30/2013" Engaging wrap to this story arc. I was still pleased with the amount of the original characters that we see in this story. "
— Suz, 9/6/2013" A very good sequel to The Shadow Queen. Anne Bishop does such a good job at bringing things together. She makes you want to cheer! "
— Amethyst, 8/5/2013" I love this author and this series. The characters are magnificent. I love the dynamic among the whole group. Definitely recommended. "
— Denese, 7/31/2013" I want to live in this series. "
— Annette, 7/28/2013" Loved it! It's a fantasy novel about hope. fledgling trust, the conflict of heart and honor, and fighting for the people who belong to you. Great characters, rich world-building. "
— Rachelle, 6/30/2012" Entertaining but not my favorite. "
— June, 5/16/2012" Can't go wrong with Anne Bishop. A continuation of the "queen". Makes me want to go back and read all of the series again. "
— Judy, 4/8/2012Anne Bishop is
the New York Times bestselling author
of Bridge of Dreams and a winner of
the William L. Crawford Memorial Fantasy Award for her Black Jewels trilogy. She lives in Upstate New York.