REVIEW: Kushiel's Scion by Jacqueline Carey

REVIEW: Kushiel's Scion by Jacqueline Carey
Series: Kushiel Series (Imriel Trilogy)

Author Website

Summary:

Imriel de la Courcel no Montreve, son of traitor Melissande Shahrizai and foster son of the realm's heroine Phedre no Delaunay de Montreve and her consort Joscelin Verreuil, has grown up and is torn between wanting to be good and giving in to his nature--that of his desire for sadistic, violent pleasures. Though many people suspected him of having designs on the throne, Barquiel L'Envers being one of them, Imriel had no such intentions. Wanting to escape the atmosphere at the palace, he sets off for Tiberium for a year of studies, where he was plunged into intrigue, mayhem and war.

Review:

I have to be honest. I initially picked up this book because I wanted to read more about Phedre and Joscelin. Therefore, I was a bit disappointed when there were only bits and pieces about this dynamic duo (especially Joscelin!), especially when Imriel left Terre d'Ange for his year at Tiberium.

This book is very different from Phedre's larger than life tale, because from the start, Phedre already knew what she was and what she wanted. Even when she was young, Phedre has the self-assurance of mature young woman, and her loyalty and her heroism were at her core. Imriel, however, was a confused young man, brought about by his heritage and his childhood experiences. Hence, this first book in the trilogy can be said to be a coming-of-age story where Imriel tries to search for his identity.

When Imriel sets off for university, he is actually setting off for an adventure, as in Tiberium, he comes into contact with the Unseen Guild and even receives the same offer as Anafiel Delaunay, Phedre's patron. He dives into an affair with a married woman and learns about the arts of covertcy from her. He thwarts an attempt on his life, survives a riot, and eventually helps his friend Lucius wins a war in his hometown. In the process, he grows up.

It's a good start to the trilogy, but I can't say I like this book very much. Though it was interesting to off on a journey with Imriel, yes, I miss Phedre and Joscelin. Somehow, this book didn't have the same awe-inspiring wonder as the Phedre trilogy.

Book Rating: 3.0