THE KING’S COURSE by Jessica Dawn: Fresh and exciting fantasy
Jessica Dawn’s first book, THE PALADIN’S PATH, was the highlight of my indie fantasy reads last year. I absolutely loved the book, an unusual blend of cultures and mythos, and I jumped at the chance to read the sequel. I was not disappointed.
THE KING’S COURSE picks up where the first book left off. Peleb, formerly Nameless, is struggling to learn exactly what it means to be a fledgling god. He is determined to harness his powers in order to protect Cheka: his teammate, the crown prince in disguise, and the man he loves.
The rest of Bird Squad is back and as close knit a group as ever, determined to help Cheka take the throne from his cruel, tyrannical mother. The winds of rebellion are rising. Cheka must win the favor of as many gods as possible in order to legitimize his claim to the crown. But even old friends may not be as loyal as they seem, and having secrets of one’s own makes it hard to know who to trust. When all the planning and intrigue comes to a violent head, Peleb must be willing to risk everything whether he’s ready or not.
This book was a thrilling adventure and a satisfying sequel to the previous installment. Peleb’s simplicity and earnestness comes through even as he is learning to master his godhood. The lovely romance between him and Cheka develops into something wonderful, tested when Peleb’s heroics garner unwanted commendations he can’t refuse. What can I say? I’m a sucker for combat-flirting (see my own books for proof!).
Again, the melange of Asian and European culture blends into a strange whole that works and makes it all fresh and new. Technology appears to be somewhere in the steampunk vicinity, trains and telephones coexisting with horse-drawn carriages. These books are a delightful read, and I can’t recommend them enough.
