This week I am daring you to read PASSION PLAY by Beth Bernobich because it was my favorite fantasy novel read in 2012. Mind you, I don’t read my pure fantasy novels either but if you’re planning on reading one in the near future, this has to top your list of possible choices.
Beth Bernobich has a way of creating great characters that are wonderful and unique. Each and every character is important to the story, and no matter how insignificant, Beth makes you want to learn more about each and everyone of them. My favorite character would probably have to be the main character Ilse, and while we don’t have many things in common, I completely understand the reasoning behind her every decision. The difficult ordeals she had to live through make her such a strong character, both mentally and physically. Her relationship with Kosenmark is without a doubt a unique one and I’m actually glad it took them that long to realize their feelings for one another.
Another thing that I love about this book is the setting. It’s not overly magical or mystical but it does have its interesting bits. The magical elements are more subdued at first, but as the story progresses, more and more appears in the story. You can’t have a good epic fantasy novel without a fight for the throne and while politics play a major role in this kingdom, the novel can also be seen as a romance book because of the relationship between Ilse and Kosenmark.
Not only is PASSION PLAY a great novel, it’s also a great introduction to an epic series. I’m really excited to read Allegiance, the third book of the series. I received an ARC of it last week and I’m ready to dive into it any time now!
If you like high fantasy, I’m daring you to read it as soon as possible. You won’t regret it!
Ilse Zhalina is the daughter of one of Melnek’s more prominent merchants. She has lived most of her life surrounded by the trappings of wealth and privilege. Many would consider hers a happy lot. But there are dark secrets, especially in the best of families. Ilse has learned that for a young woman of her beauty and social station, to be passive and silent is the best way to survive.
When Ilse finally meets the older man she is to marry, she realizes he is far crueler and more deadly than her father could ever be. Ilse chooses to run. This choice will change her life forever.
And it will lead her to Raul Kosenmark, master of one of the land’s most notorious pleasure houses…and who is, as Ilse discovers, a puppetmaster of a different sort altogether. Ilse discovers a world where every pleasure has a price and there are levels of magic and intrigue she once thought unimaginable. She also finds the other half of her heart.
Purchase: Amazon | Book Depository
Daring You To Read is a weekly feature here on Tynga’s Reviews where we dare you to read some of our favorite older releases (at least 6 months old). All the books/series we choose to feature are titles we adored and think you should give them a shot! We think it’s a super awesome way to discover that special book who might have slipped off your radar!
You’ve already read the book? Let’s us know what you thought! You are accepting the dare? We’d love to know! Have a dare of your own? Leave a comment!
Just to let everyone know: the e-book of Passion Play is now on sale for 2.99 USD. Here's a link with the details:
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