The Duke's Gambit by Tracy Grant
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 10:10 AM
"The Duke's Gambit" pulls readers into its gripping narrative right from the opening line, immersing them in a thrilling world filled with treachery, intricate plots, and chilling murder. Tracy Grant, with her remarkable storytelling prowess, weaves a mesmerizing tale that intricately balances suspense and drama.
The novel is populated with a diverse array of characters who leap off the pages—valiant heroes who navigate the treacherous landscapes of loyalty and betrayal, and cunning villains whose motives are as dark as the night. With exquisite attention to detail, Grant paints vivid scenes that transport you to glamorous ballrooms echoing with whispered secrets and fog-shrouded streets pulsating with danger. Each plot twist grips you tighter, leaving your heart racing as you anticipate the next revelation.
I find myself eagerly counting down the days until the next chapter in this remarkable series, yearning to unravel more of the deliciously tangled web of intrigue and adventure that Tracy Grant has so masterfully created.
“Anyone can face ease and success with confidence. It is the way we face trouble and misfortune that defines us.”
Joe Abercrombie's "The Blade Itself" stands out as one of the most impressive fantasy debuts I’ve encountered in recent years. The moment I finished it, I was captivated and eagerly sought out "Before They Are Hanged," anticipating the unfolding journeys of the richly crafted characters from the first novel. To my sheer delight, this second installment not only matches the brilliance of the first but often soars to dazzling new heights.
At the heart of the first book were its unforgettable characters, and that remains true for "Before They Are Hanged." Abercrombie possesses an extraordinary ability to deepen our understanding of characters who have already undergone remarkable transformations. Figures like Logen Ninefingers, the fierce yet introspective barbarian; Glokta, the sharp-witted and crippled torturer; and Bayez, who masterfully subverts the cliché of the "wise old wizard," are poised to become legends within the fantasy genre. Even the supporting cast is vividly drawn, their growth woven seamlessly into the tapestry of the narrative. We delve deeper into the psyches of Jezal, Ferro, West, and Dogman, each bringing their unique flair to the story. Abercrombie's signature dark humor reemerges, enriching the characters and adding layers of complexity. He skillfully intertwines threads of tragedy and comedy that resonate throughout his creations.
In my initial reading of the first novel, I found its pacing somewhat languid. However, it has become evident that Abercrombie was meticulously setting the stage in the first book, which permits a much swifter and more exhilarating plot progression in this sequel, as readers are now intimately familiar with the world and its inhabitants. The narrative unfolds in three intertwining arcs. The first centers on Glokta, who finds himself in a perilous position as he must defend the beleaguered city of Dogoska from the encroaching Gurkish Empire while unmasking traitors lurking within its walls—an assignment he is uniquely equipped to tackle. The second arc invites us to join First Magi Bayez, his shrewd apprentice Quai, Logen, Ferro, Navigator Longfoot, and the ambitious Jezal on a perilous quest to the very edge of the world. Their banter crackles with humor while Bayez enriches our understanding of the world’s fascinating history, showcasing masterful world-building. The third arc plunges us into the chaos of war between the Union and Bethod's Northmen, where we ride alongside Dogman and his loyal band of warriors. These segments deliver high-octane action interspersed with laughter and moments that tug at the heartstrings, making them some of my favorites in the book.
Having traversed many realms of fantasy literature—often marked by repetition—I find Abercrombie’s ability to consistently surprise me to be a invigorating breath of fresh air. It rekindles the sense of wonder I experienced when I first dove into the genre, nourishing my craving for the new and extraordinary. I am truly grateful to be able to rediscover a spark of that magic. Readers who reveled in "The Blade Itself" will undoubtedly find joy in "Before They Are Hanged." If you’re a fantasy enthusiast seeking an original and exhilarating journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this series—it is a treasure that certainly does not disappoint! Highly recommended!
Gilded Deceit by Tracy Grant
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 7:08 AM
In the electrifying conclusion of *London Gambit*, Malcolm and Suzanne Rannoch, along with their children, make a desperate escape from London under the cover of night. Their situation has become dire as they realize that the enigmatic Lord Carfax, who serves as the unofficial head of British Intelligence and was once Malcolm's mentor, has uncovered Suzanne’s secret: she was once a Bonapartist spy. Unbeknownst to Malcolm at the time of their marriage, Suzanne had originally wed him with the intention of spying on him. After five years of marriage, Malcolm finally unravels this shocking truth along with another revelation: Raoul O’Roarke, a man he has just discovered is his father, was not only a renowned spymaster but also Suzanne’s former lover.
The narrative of *Gilded Deceit* begins in August 1818, as the Rannoch family finds themselves exiled in the picturesque setting of Lake Como, Italy. In their charming villa, framed by breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, they grapple with the oppressive influence of Carfax, who continues to loom over their lives. It is within this idyllic yet tension-filled backdrop that they cross paths with Lord Thurston, another British exile with a troubled past, and Contessa Vincenzo, the intriguing woman for whom he abandoned his family and homeland fifteen years ago.
As the Rannochs become entangled in Thurston’s complex family saga, they find themselves navigating a treacherous world that includes the shadowy Elsinore League, a group shrouded in menace, as well as Italian revolutionaries who are fervently fighting for their cause. The plot thickens with the introduction of gun smugglers and even a murder that sends ripples of fear through their already precarious situation. Notable literary figures, such as Lord Byron and the dynamic duo of Percy and Mary Shelley, are swept up in the chaos, adding another layer of richness to the narrative.
From the outset, the tension in *Gilded Deceit* is palpable, and the pacing is expertly crafted, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The characters, each intricately developed, navigate their complicated relationships in a world filled with secrets and deception. The story is imbued with numerous layers that invite deep exploration, making it one of the most compelling historical mystery series available today.
If you have yet to embark on this literary journey, I highly recommend starting with *Vienna Waltz*. Prepare yourself to be utterly captivated and ready to read the series in a single, thrilling marathon!
Month of March: Best of Quotes
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 7:47 AM
Tower Lord by Anthony Ryan
by
Natasa Djordjevic
- 7:39 AM
“Beware the seduction of the quick conclusion. Do not indulge in the answer you desire until you know all you need to know.”
Everything about the book was truly remarkable: the eloquent writing style, the richly developed characters, and the intricately woven plot.
I was captivated by the author's unique approach of starting each narrative in the present, framing it through the eyes of a single character, and then seamlessly flashing back to various moments in the storyline. This technique immerses you in the experience, as if you’re sitting across from a friend who is animatedly recounting their journey up to that point. Each time you revisit the character, the cycle of discovery begins anew, drawing you deeper into their world.
The characters themselves are crafted with such depth that you feel as though you truly know them. The descriptions are refreshingly authentic; rather than portraying them as omnipotent beings, the author presents them as nuanced individuals, navigating the complexities of life. While a few of the characters do possess extraordinary abilities, these elements are woven into the fabric of reality, adding a layer of intrigue without veering into the realm of outlandish fantasy. What’s more, the book's length allows for a beautifully paced exploration of events, ensuring that nothing feels hurried or forced. Each moment unfolds with care and intention, inviting you to savor the story in all its vivid detail.
“To me, love is more like a lending library. To keep it, we must continually renew it. Otherwise we pay a hefty fine.”
A haunting ancient curse looms over an Italian family, entwined with the indomitable spirit of a fierce grandmother who has long held sway over her granddaughters, and an aunt, Poppy, who has become a pariah within the family. As two brave granddaughters embark on a journey with their estranged aunt to the sun-drenched landscapes of Italy for Poppy’s long-anticipated reunion with her one true love, a tapestry of extraordinary events begins to unravel. This enchanting tale weaves together themes of growth, self-confidence, and the transformative power of love, resonating with everyone who has ever yearned for connection.
The narrative unfolds through vivid, multiple voices against the backdrop of Italy’s mesmerizing charm—its vibrant gardens, rustic villas, and the tantalizing aromas of traditional cuisine—creating a striking contrast to the close-knit Brooklyn neighborhood where the family has spent generations baking cherished recipes and sharing stories. Here, amidst the rolling hills and golden sunsets of Italy, the family confronts their past, celebrates their heritage, and discovers the true meaning of belonging.
