The Curse of Chalion

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What to expect

Lord Cazaril has been, in turn, courtier, castle-warder, and captain; now he is but a crippled ex-galley slave seeking nothing more than a menial job in the kitchens of the Dowager Provincara, the noble patroness of his youth. But Cazaril finds himself promoted to the exalted and dangerous position of tutor to Iselle, the beautiful, fiery sister of the heir to Chalion’s throne.

Amidst the decaying splendor and poisonous intrigue of Chalion’s ancient capital, Cazaril is forced to confront not only powerful enemies but also the malignant curse that clings to the royal household, trapping him, flesh and soul, in a maze of demonic paradox, damnation, and death for as long as he dares walk the five-fold pathway of the gods.

Critics Review

  • “Nicely detailed and wittily accented…Here’s hoping it launches a series of tales as well told as the Vorkosigan volumes.”

    Booklist

  • “Bujold weaves a convincing and captivating fantasy world, well researched, with magic that works and gods that live without destroying the balance of this medieval society. Cazaril’s life is rich with detail and plays a part in the conclusion. The villains are believably motivated. The young heroines are deeply sympathetic characters as well. Readers will find themselves rooting for the good guys, while still uncertain that all can end without at least one of them suffering a dire fate. A finely balanced mixture of adventure, swordplay, court intrigue, romance, magic, and religion makes this book a delightful read.”

    School Library Journal

  • “[Bujold] turns her hand as competently and engagingly to the fantasy genre in a tale of quiet heroism and self-sacrifice. Compelling characters and richly detailed world building make this a strong addition to fantasy collections.”

    Library Journal

  • “Bujold excels at creating complex characters you care for, and at catching them up in terrific action-adventure stories laced with thoughtful ponderings on ethics and religion. James does an excellent job with this tale…He strikes just the right note throughout all the twists and turns of the plot.”

    Kliatt

  • “This is one of the great ones.”

    Science Fiction Chronicle

  • “Lloyd James excels. Subtle tonal shifts distinguish James’ characters, enabling him to voice male and female characters of all ages, of upper and lower castes—with equal acumen.”

    Amazing Stories

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