3.42
Part of "River of Souls" series
Passion Play, by Beth Bernobich, is a captivating and intricate fantasy novel that explores the interconnected lives of several characters in the fictional city of Heineman, set in an alternate version of 19th century Europe. The story revolves around a mysterious and powerful artifact, the Passion Reliquary, which has the ability to grant its wielder immense power, but at a great cost. The novel's protagonist, Ilse Zhalina, is a strong-willed and intelligent woman who finds herself in possession of the Passion Reliquary after her lover, the enigmatic and alluring Raul Kosenmark, is murdered. Ilse is thrust into a dangerous world of political intrigue, espionage, and magic as she tries to uncover the truth behind Raul's death and the true nature of the Passion Reliquary. Bernobich's writing is rich and evocative, bringing the city of Heineman and its inhabitants to life in vivid detail. The author's use of multiple perspectives allows the reader to see the story from different angles, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with their own motivations, flaws, and strengths. Passion Play is a complex and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of power, identity, and love. The author's use of fantasy elements adds an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the story, making it a compelling read for fans of the genre. The novel's intricate plot and well-developed characters make it a standout addition to the fantasy genre, and a must-read for fans of authors such as Jacqueline Carey and Guy Gavriel Kay. Overall, Passion Play is a highly recommended read for anyone looking for a well-crafted and thought-provoking fantasy novel. With its rich world-building, intricate plot, and well-developed characters, it is a novel that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end...
Terry Goodkind
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The Broken Empire series
If you're looking for a darker, grittier take on political intrigue and magic, try 'The Broken Empire' series. This series follows a ruthless, amoral prince as he rises to power in a brutal and unforgiving world.
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If you enjoyed the complex, layered world-building in 'Passion Play', you'll appreciate the imaginative and unique setting of 'The City & The
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