The Black Queen: Black Throne #1

So far, Ms. Rusch hasn't hesitated to make bold plot choices for this series. The author has an enviable gift for introducing new elements or plot turns that are initially uncomfortable or even a bit annoying. But when she suddenly reveals yet another unexpected wily maneuver that restores your comfort level, usually you've forgotten you were supposed to be irritated. While the plot may make sudden sharp turns, the author continues to artfully and carefully construct a wondrous and consistent Fey world for all of us to enjoy. At times within this novel, as the history of the Fey fills out, gaining in both power and nuance, their world takes on such admirable depth and coherence that it becomes distracting, but in a good way! I found myself thinking about the strength of storytelling vision (and lots of help, no doubt) necessary to create a world so persistently tantalizing. And I can't think of another example of an extended set of fantasy novels with such a complex world that's so compelling it seems that it's just through the next dimensional vortex. Well, except for that fellow with his Hobbits... The intriguing plot is another fine reshaping of the story, and of the caliber fans have come to expect from Ms. Rusch. It did seem like there was one long page-turner hidden in the book(s), but the necessary, detailed and mostly welcome back-story pushed the tale into a second book. Not that I'm complaining! In fact, given the author's track record in the preceding Fey volumes, coupled with this incredible fantasy world she has so ably constructed, a poor plot or storyline is the last thing I'd worry about. Welcome back to Blue Isle, Ms. Rusch!

This book is the next installment of the Fey series, beginning 15 years after the last book, Victory. Arianna is now Black Queen and has kept her people at peace for her entire rule. But they are beginning to grow weary. For hundreds of years, the Fey have conquered one nation after another, thier goal world domination.But this young queen from the peaceful yet deadly Blue Isle stands in thier way. On top of this, Arianna is fighting a battle of her own with her old enemy, Rugad, who threatens to destroy everything has worked for. Her only hope is her brother,Gift. But he is a world away, and getting to Arianna in time is practically impossible. I reccomend this to anyone who enjoys a book with an exciting plot and unforgetable charecters.

It was a good book, and it was cool to catch up on what's been going on since "Victory". It seemed that she spent almost the whole book on buildup though. It didn't say QUITE as much as I wanted to know, and there wasn't much action until the end. It was still excellant, and every Fey fan should read it. But it wasn't quite up to the last one's standard.

This book is just as enjoyable as the original Fey series. It is just as captivating, unpredictible, sad, etc. If your looking for something good to read, read The Fey series then this book, then of course The Black King when it is released.

I can't wait to read this series of the Fey. I especially enjoyed the Fey series before this. I even got into the characters. I was disappointed when one of the major characters were killed out of the story. But never the less I think this will be an excellent continuation of the Black Royal Family.