Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Collection
Publication
Tor Fantasy (2002), Edition: 1st, 912 pages
Description
The land of Terre d'Ange is a place of unsurpassing beauty and grace. It is said that angels found the land and saw it was good...and the ensuing race that rose from the seed of angels and men live by one simple rule: Love as thou wilt.Phèdre nó Delaunay is a young woman who was born with a scarlet mote in her left eye. Sold into indentured servitude as a child, her bond is purchased by Anafiel Delaunay, a nobleman with very a special mission...and the first one to recognize who and what she is: one pricked by Kushiel's Dart, chosen to forever experience pain and pleasure as one.Phèdre is trained equally in the courtly arts and the talents of the bedchamber but, above all, the ability to observe, remember, and analyze. Almost as talented a spy as she is courtesan, Phèdre stumbles upon a plot that threatens the very foundations of her homeland. Treachery sets her on her path; love and honor goad her further. And in the doing, it will take her to the edge of despair...and beyond. Hateful friend, loving enemy, beloved assassin; they can all wear the same glittering mask in this world, and Phèdre will get but one chance to save all that she holds dear.Set in a world of cunning poets, deadly courtiers, heroic traitors, and a truly Machiavellian villainess, this is a novel of grandeur, luxuriance, sacrifice, betrayal, and deeply laid conspiracies. Not since Dune has there been an epic on the scale of Kushiel's Dart-a massive tale about the violent death of an old age and the birth of a new.… (more)
Media reviews
Overall, though, this is a really superior debut, integrating original themes, intelligent world-building, and skillful writing to an extent all too rare in today's fantasy market. It should immediately establish Carey as one of the most interesting and talented of the current crop of rising
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User reviews
LibraryThing member Aerrin99
These are books I had to see recommended five or six times before I acknowledged that they might be worth reading. The description doesn't catch me - and in fact almost turns me off - but when list after list contains the same series, you've got to start paying a bit of attention. Then late last
The concept here is simple: Phedre serves as both courtesan and spy in the fictional alternative-European country of Terre D'Ange. This is a concept that could be disastrous, but in Carey's hands is engaging and fascinating. I was wary of the BDSM implications in the description, but to my surprise, I found that this aspect actually gave Carey the chance (largely in the third book) to discuss some rather interesting questions of human and divine nature.
First the bad: I nearly put this book down halfway through. The first half of the book is slow, almost tedious, and the info-dumping is intense. It's one of those books that not only has, but /requires/ 4 pages of character lists at the front. I wished I'd used it more - I may have been less frustrated trying to remember who Barquiel D'Envers or Ysandre de Courcel was and why on earth it was so shocking that their name had just been dropped.
The first half of the book feels like an author learning how to write intrigue, at times painfully so. And in fact, it may have been - Kushiel's Dart is her first novel.
However. Halfway through the book events change significantly, and the story absolutely zooms forward from there, and it's in this vein that the rest of the series continues. Now, finally, we get to appreciate Carey's strengths, which are many.
Her world building is just gorgeous. Terre D'Ange is a reflection of our own world, religions, politics, cultures and all, except that in this world, the evolution of Judaic/Christian religion has taken another step (and in fact the first two steps still appear in this world), in the form of a man named Elua, who came into being when Christ's blood mixed with Mother Earth. Elua and his angelic companions founded Terre D'Ange, and the varying beliefs and values form one of the most profoundly interesting cores of this entire series. Elua's one command to his people is 'Love as thou wilt.' At its base, this means that sex can be a form of worship, that there is no shame in prostitution or love affairs.
But Carey takes it further, and she builds on it bit by bit in every novel. Love as thou wilt - what does it mean, if one takes it seriously? If there is nothing more sacred or more powerful than love - and if denying love is a sacrilege? Carey's deft hand asks this question again and again, in different lights, from different angles. She examines treason, betrayal, sacrifice, lust and passion, heartbreak, disappointment, courage, honor. What does it /mean/ if love is above all? What does /love/ mean?
The politics and intrigue are fantastic as well. There's high adventure, dangerous escapades, true friendship, true love, and all those names and places I struggled with in the first half of the book did, in fact, pay off.
And her characters. Her main character is interesting and sufficient (and grows thankfully better after the mediocre beginning), but one of Carey's strengths is to create fantastically believable and memorable secondary characters - villians, lovers, pawns caught in the middle.
And to top it all off, Carey is just a gorgeous writer. Her descriptions are wonderful, her explanations fluid and nearly seamless (once we get past that rocky first half), and her emotion beautifully realized.
By the time I finished the book, I was more than ready for the second one - and I'm happy to say, it gets even better.
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year I picked up the fantastic Santa Olivia by the same author and just adored it. Carey has a deft way with a pen, especially with description and the depths of emotion, and so when I scanned my wishlist for a new read, Kushiel finally made the cut.The concept here is simple: Phedre serves as both courtesan and spy in the fictional alternative-European country of Terre D'Ange. This is a concept that could be disastrous, but in Carey's hands is engaging and fascinating. I was wary of the BDSM implications in the description, but to my surprise, I found that this aspect actually gave Carey the chance (largely in the third book) to discuss some rather interesting questions of human and divine nature.
First the bad: I nearly put this book down halfway through. The first half of the book is slow, almost tedious, and the info-dumping is intense. It's one of those books that not only has, but /requires/ 4 pages of character lists at the front. I wished I'd used it more - I may have been less frustrated trying to remember who Barquiel D'Envers or Ysandre de Courcel was and why on earth it was so shocking that their name had just been dropped.
The first half of the book feels like an author learning how to write intrigue, at times painfully so. And in fact, it may have been - Kushiel's Dart is her first novel.
However. Halfway through the book events change significantly, and the story absolutely zooms forward from there, and it's in this vein that the rest of the series continues. Now, finally, we get to appreciate Carey's strengths, which are many.
Her world building is just gorgeous. Terre D'Ange is a reflection of our own world, religions, politics, cultures and all, except that in this world, the evolution of Judaic/Christian religion has taken another step (and in fact the first two steps still appear in this world), in the form of a man named Elua, who came into being when Christ's blood mixed with Mother Earth. Elua and his angelic companions founded Terre D'Ange, and the varying beliefs and values form one of the most profoundly interesting cores of this entire series. Elua's one command to his people is 'Love as thou wilt.' At its base, this means that sex can be a form of worship, that there is no shame in prostitution or love affairs.
But Carey takes it further, and she builds on it bit by bit in every novel. Love as thou wilt - what does it mean, if one takes it seriously? If there is nothing more sacred or more powerful than love - and if denying love is a sacrilege? Carey's deft hand asks this question again and again, in different lights, from different angles. She examines treason, betrayal, sacrifice, lust and passion, heartbreak, disappointment, courage, honor. What does it /mean/ if love is above all? What does /love/ mean?
The politics and intrigue are fantastic as well. There's high adventure, dangerous escapades, true friendship, true love, and all those names and places I struggled with in the first half of the book did, in fact, pay off.
And her characters. Her main character is interesting and sufficient (and grows thankfully better after the mediocre beginning), but one of Carey's strengths is to create fantastically believable and memorable secondary characters - villians, lovers, pawns caught in the middle.
And to top it all off, Carey is just a gorgeous writer. Her descriptions are wonderful, her explanations fluid and nearly seamless (once we get past that rocky first half), and her emotion beautifully realized.
By the time I finished the book, I was more than ready for the second one - and I'm happy to say, it gets even better.
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LibraryThing member ferebend
Let's run through a list of reasons why I loved this book and why anyone and anyone's mom would love it too (well, maybe not anyone, but certainly anyone who has at least a passing interest in fantasy or alternate history):
(1) It's got plot. It's got plot in spades. So much is going on and there's
(2) Characters you can truly get into. There's a puntload of characters in this book. None of them are given just a bare sketch of a personality. All of them are fully fleshed out and deep. The main characters are the type you can really empathize with. I found myself actively cheering the protagonist(s) and reviling the antagonist(s). I felt what they felt, for the most part, and there was some truly heartwrenching stuff in there.
(3) Great setting. The author sets up a hugely complex and fascinating society, which is basically an alternate history Europe in the middle ages, with lots of detail, backstory and mythology. Terre D'Ange (an alternate France) is truly unique. I could never have imagined anything so intricate. I swear, there's enough material there to write a hefty Lonely Planet guide.
(4) It's fantasy lite, sort of. I mean, there's one aspect of the book that comes along pretty late that felt like the stuff of traditional fantasy novels but the rest is purely natural and human. There are some other elements that are less supernatural and more mystic, which is fine. Mysticism exists in our world, so it's "real" enough.
(5) The main character Phèdre nó Delaunay is first described, very succinctly, as a "whore's unwanted get." Come on! Doesn't that alone make you want to pick this book up? In all seriousness, though, the story of her life (up until the end of the book anyway, at which point she's still fairly young) is a satisfying and credible one. I love it when there's real character development.
(1) It's got plot. It's got plot in spades. So much is going on and there's
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political intrigue oozing out of every pore, er, page. But the best part is that the author does a great job in keeping it all together. Despite all the substance, I was never confused and never in need of an explanation. Everything is coherent, which is a really hard thing to pull off in a 900-page novel of any genre.(2) Characters you can truly get into. There's a puntload of characters in this book. None of them are given just a bare sketch of a personality. All of them are fully fleshed out and deep. The main characters are the type you can really empathize with. I found myself actively cheering the protagonist(s) and reviling the antagonist(s). I felt what they felt, for the most part, and there was some truly heartwrenching stuff in there.
(3) Great setting. The author sets up a hugely complex and fascinating society, which is basically an alternate history Europe in the middle ages, with lots of detail, backstory and mythology. Terre D'Ange (an alternate France) is truly unique. I could never have imagined anything so intricate. I swear, there's enough material there to write a hefty Lonely Planet guide.
(4) It's fantasy lite, sort of. I mean, there's one aspect of the book that comes along pretty late that felt like the stuff of traditional fantasy novels but the rest is purely natural and human. There are some other elements that are less supernatural and more mystic, which is fine. Mysticism exists in our world, so it's "real" enough.
(5) The main character Phèdre nó Delaunay is first described, very succinctly, as a "whore's unwanted get." Come on! Doesn't that alone make you want to pick this book up? In all seriousness, though, the story of her life (up until the end of the book anyway, at which point she's still fairly young) is a satisfying and credible one. I love it when there's real character development.
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LibraryThing member fairypenguin
There is so much I could say about this book, but it would be impossible to explain it with complete accuracy. It's fantasy, intrigue, and romance. It's dark and gritty. It's unexpectedly entertaining.
First of all, this book is long. The plot elements are too many to summarize, so I'll just gloss
There are a lot of great things about this book, and I believe it would appeal to a wide audience. Phedre is a unique character who stands out both by the standards of modern culture and withing her own world. As a result, I found her likable and for the most part relateable. The setting and culture created is extremely detailed and entertaing--from the political and social hierarchies, to the legends and religions, to the customs and languages. It takes some concentration to keep everything straight. Which is why I must warn- this isn't exactly light reading. Not only is the plot complex and full of politics, mysteries, and secret plots, but much of the content is vaguely disturbing. But if you put the time and thought into it, you will almost certainly find something appealing.
The parts that appealed to me specifically were the relationships. Phedre meets and interacts with quite a variety of characters. There is Hyacynthe, a gypsy boy she meets as a child. Joscelin, Phedre's protector who lives by strict priestly vows which are strongly tried by his growing love for her. I could go on, but the point is that there is every character type imaginable and there's quite a bit of development for each of them.
I had some issues with this book, and the top one is length. I like my books long, yes, but I hate filler. Was there much of it? No. But enough that I had moments of boredom, or later when I thought back on a chapter I realized it could have been cut to no ill effect. In fact I feel there were a few characters that could have been cut out as unnecessary to the plot. The language is very flowery, which is mostly a plus, but at times it detracts from the narrative--sometimes simpler would be better.
Overall, this is very impressive fantasy. I encourage readers to try it and draw their own conclusions--most fantasy fans should find something positive.
First of all, this book is long. The plot elements are too many to summarize, so I'll just gloss
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over the main points. The setting is a sort of alternate reality historical Europe--most specifically Terre-D'Ange (France). It's told first person from the point of view of Phedre, a young girl who was given into servitude as a child. She grows up being trained as a courtesan and a spy--to pleasure men and women and to observe and interpret the things she sees. Phedre is unique in that she has the ability to yield to pain, taking pleasure in the process. As a result of this calling she is thrown into a world of intricate political intrigue, tumultuous romance, violence, and war. She is joined by a varied cast of secondary characters and villains, too many to list or describe.There are a lot of great things about this book, and I believe it would appeal to a wide audience. Phedre is a unique character who stands out both by the standards of modern culture and withing her own world. As a result, I found her likable and for the most part relateable. The setting and culture created is extremely detailed and entertaing--from the political and social hierarchies, to the legends and religions, to the customs and languages. It takes some concentration to keep everything straight. Which is why I must warn- this isn't exactly light reading. Not only is the plot complex and full of politics, mysteries, and secret plots, but much of the content is vaguely disturbing. But if you put the time and thought into it, you will almost certainly find something appealing.
The parts that appealed to me specifically were the relationships. Phedre meets and interacts with quite a variety of characters. There is Hyacynthe, a gypsy boy she meets as a child. Joscelin, Phedre's protector who lives by strict priestly vows which are strongly tried by his growing love for her. I could go on, but the point is that there is every character type imaginable and there's quite a bit of development for each of them.
I had some issues with this book, and the top one is length. I like my books long, yes, but I hate filler. Was there much of it? No. But enough that I had moments of boredom, or later when I thought back on a chapter I realized it could have been cut to no ill effect. In fact I feel there were a few characters that could have been cut out as unnecessary to the plot. The language is very flowery, which is mostly a plus, but at times it detracts from the narrative--sometimes simpler would be better.
Overall, this is very impressive fantasy. I encourage readers to try it and draw their own conclusions--most fantasy fans should find something positive.
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LibraryThing member Severn
There are many ways to measure the success of a novel - plot, pace, characters etc etc. Speaking for myself the novels that get 5 stars from me are the ones that leave me near-grieving for the characters, and the world, when I finish. Ones that have me soaking in every word in the last chapter,
This is such a book, as are the other two in the trilogy.
Generally, I don't hanker after dragons, quests and elves in my fantasy novels, although I do enjoy them from time to time, and these things certainly don't appear in the Kushiel trilogy. Rather I search for world-building; a superior writing ability; and characters so real I could almost be reading a biography.
Carey has achieved these three aspects so well it hurts. The world she has created is so real I almost forgot it's based on a mesh of historical cultures. Even the inclusion of a pharoah seemed somehow natural to her world, rather than a borrowing of our own. Elua, and particularly Terre D'ange, is a rich, lavish place and turns traditional moral notions completely on their head - definitely refreshing in a fantasy setting.
Carey writes with a fluid grace - no stumbling, awkward prose as occurs too often. Strong dialogue, strong description, a good balance of the two. Writing from first person isn't always easy, as you can't have back-up characters to rely on to provide fresh perspectives. Therefore, writing three books so well with the voice of a sole character is impressive.
I still miss Phedre, and Joscelin. Getting to know Phedre was not an easy task, at times it was downright uncomfortable. One can get lulled, within fantasy, into thinking the often-repeated rescue of female characters is a 'natural' literary device; an expected cliche of your standard fantasy. It was quite disconcerting to come across a heroine who actively seeks pain, and uses it as a means to attain her goals.
I shared Joscelin's frustration/revulsion as he stood by, knowing Phedre was being hurt. Initially, each time I realised that she didn't want his help, or even need it, it shocked for a moment. I felt I was sharing the journey with Joscelin as he slowly came to accept Phedre for who and what she is. Whether Carey intended the reader to walk this journey with him or not, it's very successful.
There is enough pace, and action, to keep the book going, athough they certainly aren't, in my opinion, what sustains the novel. I think Carey has handled the intriguing/politicking quite well, though these things are suppressed by Phedre's strong character presence - which, of course, is fine by me, but others might not agree.
This trilogy comes highly recommended.
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aware that it's coming to an end.This is such a book, as are the other two in the trilogy.
Generally, I don't hanker after dragons, quests and elves in my fantasy novels, although I do enjoy them from time to time, and these things certainly don't appear in the Kushiel trilogy. Rather I search for world-building; a superior writing ability; and characters so real I could almost be reading a biography.
Carey has achieved these three aspects so well it hurts. The world she has created is so real I almost forgot it's based on a mesh of historical cultures. Even the inclusion of a pharoah seemed somehow natural to her world, rather than a borrowing of our own. Elua, and particularly Terre D'ange, is a rich, lavish place and turns traditional moral notions completely on their head - definitely refreshing in a fantasy setting.
Carey writes with a fluid grace - no stumbling, awkward prose as occurs too often. Strong dialogue, strong description, a good balance of the two. Writing from first person isn't always easy, as you can't have back-up characters to rely on to provide fresh perspectives. Therefore, writing three books so well with the voice of a sole character is impressive.
I still miss Phedre, and Joscelin. Getting to know Phedre was not an easy task, at times it was downright uncomfortable. One can get lulled, within fantasy, into thinking the often-repeated rescue of female characters is a 'natural' literary device; an expected cliche of your standard fantasy. It was quite disconcerting to come across a heroine who actively seeks pain, and uses it as a means to attain her goals.
I shared Joscelin's frustration/revulsion as he stood by, knowing Phedre was being hurt. Initially, each time I realised that she didn't want his help, or even need it, it shocked for a moment. I felt I was sharing the journey with Joscelin as he slowly came to accept Phedre for who and what she is. Whether Carey intended the reader to walk this journey with him or not, it's very successful.
There is enough pace, and action, to keep the book going, athough they certainly aren't, in my opinion, what sustains the novel. I think Carey has handled the intriguing/politicking quite well, though these things are suppressed by Phedre's strong character presence - which, of course, is fine by me, but others might not agree.
This trilogy comes highly recommended.
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LibraryThing member TheBooknerd
I know many people have raved about this book and this series, but I just couldn't get into it. Nothing really snagged my interest, and I eventually gave up on trying to finish it.
LibraryThing member Arctic-Stranger
Most people either love this book, or leave it unfinished. On the plus side, it is well written, you care about the characters, and the plot moves foward fairly well. On the negative side, it is long, and the plot involves two courtisans, one a male and one a female who gets pleasure from pain.
I
If you are not bothered by those topics, and have plenty of time, and are looking for a very coherent created world, you might really enjoy the series.
I
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liked it, although it took me two trys to get through it. Carey does a good job of setting the scene, but I can see how some people think she takes too long to do it. Also the sexual politics will put some people off, especially since it involves homosexuality and bdsm. If you are not bothered by those topics, and have plenty of time, and are looking for a very coherent created world, you might really enjoy the series.
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LibraryThing member BridgetMarie
I picked this book up thinking it would just be another sex book romance between Phedre and Anafiel. SO FAR FROM IT! Granted, the sex aspect drives the first quarter of the book, but there are three other quarters of the story and each part just gets better and better and better. I am absolutely
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impressed with Carey's work and can't wait for more of it. The politics added up beautifully and everything was connected, there were no loose ends. Show Less
LibraryThing member atreic
A big fat fantasy book starring a likeable Mary-Sue. Phedre the heroine is a 'super-sub', god touched with the ability to endure pain and find pleasure in it. If you want lots of political intregue, kinky sex, and the heroine always saving the day with her awesomeness while everyone else falls for
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her, this is probably the book for you. For all that that might sound a bit cliched, the characters are very engaging, the plot is well paced and moderately twisty, and it's very hard to put down. Show Less
LibraryThing member cameling
A young girl, Phedra, born with a red blemish in her eye, is delivered to one of the 13 Houses of night pleasures to be trained eventually, to serve patrons. Her red blemish catches the eye of Anafiel Delaunay, a poet and masterspy. He recognized her blemish for Kushiel's Dart,a spot that denotes
There are references to S&M in this book, but they are but references. There are no graphic scenes to detract from the real story, that of complex court intrigues, the mystery behind the real identify of Anafiel Delaunay, friendships and battles to wrest lands and the royal throne.
As Phedra grows into her own, she becomes more than the creature of night pleasures she had thought she was, and her intelligence, fearlessness and compassion helps her survive a betrayal, gain loyal friendships and ultimately become an integral key to saving the royal throne from usurpers.
Throw in some mysticism, master spies, political double crossing, a graceful and skilled fighting priest, mountain tribes and wandering nomads, a great battle and you have a gripping page turner, one that has left me desperate to get my hands on the sequel of the life journey of one Phedra no Delaunay Montreve.
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her gift for pain and pleasure and he decides to accept her as one of his students and trains her along with another, in the art of being both a courtesan and a spy.There are references to S&M in this book, but they are but references. There are no graphic scenes to detract from the real story, that of complex court intrigues, the mystery behind the real identify of Anafiel Delaunay, friendships and battles to wrest lands and the royal throne.
As Phedra grows into her own, she becomes more than the creature of night pleasures she had thought she was, and her intelligence, fearlessness and compassion helps her survive a betrayal, gain loyal friendships and ultimately become an integral key to saving the royal throne from usurpers.
Throw in some mysticism, master spies, political double crossing, a graceful and skilled fighting priest, mountain tribes and wandering nomads, a great battle and you have a gripping page turner, one that has left me desperate to get my hands on the sequel of the life journey of one Phedra no Delaunay Montreve.
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LibraryThing member jenreidreads
Like a couple of other reviewers out there, I feel pretty torn about how I feel about this book. Overall, I mostly enjoyed it. I read it from beginning to end, and I grew to care about Phèdre and Joscelin as characters, and I even got teary-eyed near the end (I won't give away what happened). But
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I found so many things about it frustrating and annoying. First of all, all the politics. Carey did not make this part of the plot clear at all, imho. I've read and enjoyed George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones, so I know political plots don't have to be so confusing! I couldn't keep all the secondary characters straight, and the list at the beginning of the book wasn't complete or clear. I also found the map lacking. Secondly, the extensive foreshadowing got to be way too much. "If I had known then what I know now..." It was too much information too early, or something, and I couldn't follow it. Basically, I think the idea of the plot was a good one, but Carey's execution of it left something to be desired for me. That said, the romance between Phèdre and Joscelin was done well, and I found the scenes where she worked as a courtesan interesting. I will probably continue reading this series; I just hope they are less confusing novels than this one for me! Show Less
LibraryThing member Jen7waters
Let me tell you guys a secret (which isn't really a secret): I'm one of those literary cowards who, when things turn really ugly, will stop reading immediately, and there’s nothing –not even the promise of a happy ending- that will make me go back and finish it. The copy I was reading it’s
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not mine, so I won’t even feel guilty (I didn’t pay for it!). So yes, this is it for me and Kushiel’s Dart, mostly because I can’t take more of the heroine’s misfortunes. I’ve held my ground through rapes, floggings, and other types of violence inflicted on Phèdre, but I will not –because I don’t have the stomach, or the nerves, for it- withstand someone cutting her with a very sharp knife. I...I…just can’t. O_O Show Less
LibraryThing member Skribe
No, no, no. Couldn't finish. Put the book down and walked away... Don't care about the awards; Don't care about the recommendations on some fantasy lit groups; Don't care about the characters or what happens to them either... Reads like one of those manga that cater to... specific tastes. Right
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down to an unearthly beautiful boy with white hair. Written in a stilted, mannered style that makes you want to scream. Life's too short. Show Less
LibraryThing member Nazgullie
I really loved this book. Firstly, this book was recommended to me as an erotic novel, and I didn't really find it as such. This novel was filled with political intrigue, adventure, and war, while peppered lightly with erotic scenes. That part was a little disappointing. Being a submissive and
With that said, this was still a good story. I was enraged, sad, horrified, and filled with desire at some parts. I couldn't put it down, I had to force myself to put it away, and focus on other things.
When I finally finished it, I admit that I felt a little empty. So glad this is a series.
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masochist myself, I wanted to read more about that part of Phedre's life. Only one or three scenes that involved domination or pain play were written about in detail, and even then in very light and ambiguous terms. With that said, this was still a good story. I was enraged, sad, horrified, and filled with desire at some parts. I couldn't put it down, I had to force myself to put it away, and focus on other things.
When I finally finished it, I admit that I felt a little empty. So glad this is a series.
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LibraryThing member KatPruce
So, this is one of the best epic fantasy novels I've read in awhile. I put it up there almost with Patrick Rothfuss status - so you know that I really liked this book!
What I didn't like:
It was sooo long! I'm normally okay with this, but there are so many names to keep track of and so much action
What I looooved (which is pretty much everything else):
The world-building....wow. Seriously you guys, the world building is absolutely top-notch in Kushiel's Dart! I was completely immersed in this strange Europe-like polytheistic world with its various dens of iniquity.
Also, the characters were just so fully-fleshed and amazing! I loved Phedre, Hyacinthe, Delaunay, Alcuin, Joscelin (he's my fave), and pretty much every single character she produced - they were all so real.
Armchair reading (fantasy-style)! You travel to so many lands, meet so many different people/entities, and witness such daring feats...that before you know it, you've chewed off all of your fingernails!
Lastly, it was such an emotional roller-coaster - you never stop being interested. It is such a multifaceted story: friendships, families, romance, betrayal, survival, and above all - hope!
What might bother others but didn't bother me:
Um, the world in which Phedre exists is one where there is a very casual attitude towards sex and Phedre herself is a courtesan with special tastes. The god Kushiel (her patron god) is the god of pain...so, uh, to sum it up she's into S&M. For some folks this is an automatic turn-off, but hear me out! While the book does let you know about episodes of er, pain and pleasure...it doesn't go into detail. There are no explicit sex scenes - just a slight description of events without going into too much detail. I thought it was tastefully done, considering the taboo subject matter.
So, there ya go folks! I really really recommend this to fantasy fans and to those who love strong female protagonists.
What I didn't like:
It was sooo long! I'm normally okay with this, but there are so many names to keep track of and so much action
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that takes place...I almost feel as if I read three books within the space of one. Then, to top it all off, the ending makes it obvious that there is more story to tell. I knew this beforehand, but after going through so much with Phedre I just felt too exhausted to embark on the next novel!What I looooved (which is pretty much everything else):
The world-building....wow. Seriously you guys, the world building is absolutely top-notch in Kushiel's Dart! I was completely immersed in this strange Europe-like polytheistic world with its various dens of iniquity.
Also, the characters were just so fully-fleshed and amazing! I loved Phedre, Hyacinthe, Delaunay, Alcuin, Joscelin (he's my fave), and pretty much every single character she produced - they were all so real.
Armchair reading (fantasy-style)! You travel to so many lands, meet so many different people/entities, and witness such daring feats...that before you know it, you've chewed off all of your fingernails!
Lastly, it was such an emotional roller-coaster - you never stop being interested. It is such a multifaceted story: friendships, families, romance, betrayal, survival, and above all - hope!
What might bother others but didn't bother me:
Um, the world in which Phedre exists is one where there is a very casual attitude towards sex and Phedre herself is a courtesan with special tastes. The god Kushiel (her patron god) is the god of pain...so, uh, to sum it up she's into S&M. For some folks this is an automatic turn-off, but hear me out! While the book does let you know about episodes of er, pain and pleasure...it doesn't go into detail. There are no explicit sex scenes - just a slight description of events without going into too much detail. I thought it was tastefully done, considering the taboo subject matter.
So, there ya go folks! I really really recommend this to fantasy fans and to those who love strong female protagonists.
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LibraryThing member xicanti
A young courtesan and spy gets caught up in a plot against her beloved country.
I was really looking forward to this, going in. It came highly recommended, and it has a killer first sentence. I could really see myself sinking into it, to the point where I’d have to rush out and buy the sequel the
Unfortunately, I found it slow going, and I really struggled to figure out why. On the surface, this book has a lot going for it. The world is lovingly rendered and incredibly detailed. It’s got a complex plot with an epic sweep to it. Aside from the war, the conflict is largely internal; something I always appreciate. And hell, there’s bondage! I should’ve been all over this book.
And yet, I just wasn’t. I was about two hundred and fifty pages in before I realized why. Phèdre may be the narrator, but this isn’t really her story. Things happen around her, not to her. With a few key exceptions, she spends most of the book as an observer, not a participant. Even after she begins to take a more active role, the book remains a somewhat uneven blend of Phèdre's Story and Things Happening To Other People With Phèdre As Witness.
It could still have been interesting and engaging, but the things going on in Phèdre's own life just weren't enough to balance out the big, epic, world-changing stuff. There are a few personal moments, true, (and some really interesting conflicts, much later on), but I didn’t feel as though they were built up as well as they could have been. As someone who reads primarily for character, I found it frustrating. I’d much rather have heard about how Phèdre related to those around her than about the grand, epic struggle to save the country.
There were a few moments, though, where I could see glimpses of what this book might have been had Carey delved further into Phèdre and her compatriots. It’s these bits, more than anything else, that have convinced me to give the sequel a go. So many people have spoken highly of this series that I’m not quite ready to abandon it yet.
I was really looking forward to this, going in. It came highly recommended, and it has a killer first sentence. I could really see myself sinking into it, to the point where I’d have to rush out and buy the sequel the
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second I was done.Unfortunately, I found it slow going, and I really struggled to figure out why. On the surface, this book has a lot going for it. The world is lovingly rendered and incredibly detailed. It’s got a complex plot with an epic sweep to it. Aside from the war, the conflict is largely internal; something I always appreciate. And hell, there’s bondage! I should’ve been all over this book.
And yet, I just wasn’t. I was about two hundred and fifty pages in before I realized why. Phèdre may be the narrator, but this isn’t really her story. Things happen around her, not to her. With a few key exceptions, she spends most of the book as an observer, not a participant. Even after she begins to take a more active role, the book remains a somewhat uneven blend of Phèdre's Story and Things Happening To Other People With Phèdre As Witness.
It could still have been interesting and engaging, but the things going on in Phèdre's own life just weren't enough to balance out the big, epic, world-changing stuff. There are a few personal moments, true, (and some really interesting conflicts, much later on), but I didn’t feel as though they were built up as well as they could have been. As someone who reads primarily for character, I found it frustrating. I’d much rather have heard about how Phèdre related to those around her than about the grand, epic struggle to save the country.
There were a few moments, though, where I could see glimpses of what this book might have been had Carey delved further into Phèdre and her compatriots. It’s these bits, more than anything else, that have convinced me to give the sequel a go. So many people have spoken highly of this series that I’m not quite ready to abandon it yet.
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LibraryThing member crystalcarroll
My housemate warned me that they were crack, but foolishly I didn’t listen. Opened the first one and was devoured.
I’d have to say that the series thus far for me has been all about how the quoted yielding doesn’t mean weak. Phedre yields. She yields. She yields. And she is chosen, not the
The repetition of the word choice. Kushiel’s Chosen. Cassiel’s choice. The choice to give up heaven for love and what is heaven? What it means to be someone’s true companion?
Although, they aren’t books for everyone. The theology is, in a word, interesting. And since her nature as a masochist is fairly utterly central to the plot, well… Culturally, it's easy to see the dominatrix as powerful. Wrapping my brain around a character for whom pain isn’t just pleasure, it is a religious ecstasy is an interesting trip. How she must learn over and over to accept and negotiate her own nature. For Joscelin to negotiate his nature. To stand at the crossroads and choose. Over and over. Choice.
Meaty stuff for a book that's this deliciously addictive.
I’d have to say that the series thus far for me has been all about how the quoted yielding doesn’t mean weak. Phedre yields. She yields. She yields. And she is chosen, not the
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chooser. The gods have chosen. Pricked sinister eye with bloody dart. She’s just their game piece. And yet, it is in yielding that she makes her own choice. The repetition of the word choice. Kushiel’s Chosen. Cassiel’s choice. The choice to give up heaven for love and what is heaven? What it means to be someone’s true companion?
Although, they aren’t books for everyone. The theology is, in a word, interesting. And since her nature as a masochist is fairly utterly central to the plot, well… Culturally, it's easy to see the dominatrix as powerful. Wrapping my brain around a character for whom pain isn’t just pleasure, it is a religious ecstasy is an interesting trip. How she must learn over and over to accept and negotiate her own nature. For Joscelin to negotiate his nature. To stand at the crossroads and choose. Over and over. Choice.
Meaty stuff for a book that's this deliciously addictive.
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LibraryThing member LisaMaria_C
Despite fitting into the coming of age genre often seen in young adult fiction, this is a very adult book--in every way. I avoided this book at first although a friend raved about it. Prostitution in fiction is generally a deal breaker with me. I didn't expect to be entranced and sucked into a
Yet ultimately this book and the trilogy of the first three Kushiel books became among my top favorites in the fantasy genre. Carey creates such an engaging voice for Phedre, from the first lines I was hooked, the world she creates is unique. Terra D'Ange reads like an Alternate Renaissance France and its religion feels like a blend of elements of Judeo-Christian and Pagan mythologies. The plot bubbles along nicely and delivers a great blend of fantasy, adventure and romance.
I'd add that the trilogy as a whole is wonderful and if you love this book I don't think you'll be disappointed with Kushiel's Chosen and Kushiel's Avatar. I've recommended the books to several friends who thought this wouldn't be books they would like, and every single person who tried it on my recommendation loved it too. I found the Kushiel books after the first trilogy not as moving, but still good reads.
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world where it's an honored profession and the heroine a celebrated practitioner--and one with a very wide masochistic streak--it's literally her selling point. Yet ultimately this book and the trilogy of the first three Kushiel books became among my top favorites in the fantasy genre. Carey creates such an engaging voice for Phedre, from the first lines I was hooked, the world she creates is unique. Terra D'Ange reads like an Alternate Renaissance France and its religion feels like a blend of elements of Judeo-Christian and Pagan mythologies. The plot bubbles along nicely and delivers a great blend of fantasy, adventure and romance.
I'd add that the trilogy as a whole is wonderful and if you love this book I don't think you'll be disappointed with Kushiel's Chosen and Kushiel's Avatar. I've recommended the books to several friends who thought this wouldn't be books they would like, and every single person who tried it on my recommendation loved it too. I found the Kushiel books after the first trilogy not as moving, but still good reads.
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LibraryThing member RubyA
Today, I finally decided to abandon this book after plodding through the first 206 pages. I don't know, Kushiel's Dart just didn't do it for me.
There were many elements of the book which I thought were good- the backstory of Elua and how Terre D'Ange was founded, the Court of the Night Blooming
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Flowers and the culture of Naamah, etc. I thought the style was good and easy to get into, although at times it was a bit flowery, even for the fantasy epic genre.My main problem with the book was that the plot got bogged down with just so. many. details. Details that I didn't care about whatsoever. There were a million different characters that I needed to keep track of, and a ton of history and political intrigue that I didn't really care about. I wanted to read about Phedre and Alcuin and maybe Hyacinthe. I wanted to read about their adventures and development and interior world and society, but it seemed to me that the sole importance of these characters was to provide a backdrop to Delaunay's (not that intriguing) intrigues. It seems like such a waste since the alternate society the author creates is quite interesting and there's potential there.
It just seems like too much work to continue this novel and try to keep everything straight, when I can turn to other fantasy epics which are easier to get into and don't require a 5 page "cast of characters" at the beginning or post-its with "notes" as a bookmark.
The breaking point for me came when I came to page 206 and some sort of "drama" was unfolding (I don't want to spoil it for anyone who cares,) and I realized that I only vaguely recognized the names of the people to which the "drama" was happening. Furthermore, I had no clue why the drama was important and why the character who was freaking out was freaking out. It was then that I realized that it was time for me and Kushiel's Dart to part ways. To many good books out there...
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LibraryThing member CurrerBell
Ugh. I've tried to get through this thingamabob more than once and I've just finally given up on it. If you aren't into the "pain" thing, it's probably not for you -- just like I find Maia by Richard Adams (a far finer writer than Carey) unreadable.
LibraryThing member NeitherNora
This was my second read of this book; I read it first two years ago. Five stars again, though I noticed more flaws than I did then -- of course, relieved of the suspense, I could dwell more on the actual writing. Still, there was much of literary merit in the book, as well as the enjoyable tale I
It is an easy thing, I think, for a book containing BDSM sex scenes to fall either into the "mindless erotica" or "rape glorification" categories of trash. (For example, A.N. Roquelaure/Anne Rice's Sleeping Beauty trilogy I would call "mindless rape glorification".) This book, however, is resoundingly neither of those literary sins. It is far from being mindless or, I'd argue, even erotica -- the sex scenes are not nearly as explicit as one might expect, and are far overshadowed by the intricacies of the novel's many plots and subplots. And, though there is nonconsensual intercourse, the main character's reaction to it is to be thoroughly repulsed, even as her masochistic nature leads her to feel pleasure in it. In this way, as in others, the book walks a fine line, but manages to maintain a steady moral compass.
The theme of consent is threaded throughout the book, in and out of the bedchamber. The main precept of the country's religion is to "Love as thou wilt" -- therefore, rape is not only illegal but the highest form of blasphemy. Similarly, all romantic preferences are accepted by this society, be they in contradiction to class, race, or heteronormativity -- if a nobleman should fall in love with a farmboy, they could live happily together without the scorn of their peers, because their religion decrees that their love is as sacred as any other. And, outside the romantic realms, any citizen may choose his or her own path in life -- and so they do, repeatedly, in the story.
Each character is undeniably distinct -- they each have their own goals, and their own strategies to achieve those goals. This is laudable in any book, but particularly so in one whose list of dramatis personae is over five pages long -- and you'll be glad to have that list by the time you finish the first act of the drama, believe you me. In any case, these many distinct characters with distinct goals lead to many distinct plots, each complicated and layered in its own right, interwoven into a book that is well worth the second read to catch the nuance.
Not only is this first book's structure well-done, but, from the perspective of one who has read those that follow, its foreshadowing of plots to come is particularly admirable. Some details, mentioned in the first hundred pages, seemingly unimportant, will not come into the forefront until one or two books down the line -- yet they are set up here, forming a foundation of a far grander scale, even, than that of the epic adventure contained in this book alone.
I must say, however, that this tight interweaving of plot -- which I cannot stop fawning over -- is not maintained over the course of the series. While all of the books are of high quality, with more than their fair share of intrigue and adventure, this one, I believe, is the most well-written (as series debuts so often are). Still, Jacqueline Carey's talents -- to spin an enthralling tale; to create compassionate, intelligent characters; and to build a fantastically believable world -- are clear in all the books in this series. They shine through the dense shelves of contemporary fantasy, and I very much look forward to reading her other works.
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remembered.It is an easy thing, I think, for a book containing BDSM sex scenes to fall either into the "mindless erotica" or "rape glorification" categories of trash. (For example, A.N. Roquelaure/Anne Rice's Sleeping Beauty trilogy I would call "mindless rape glorification".) This book, however, is resoundingly neither of those literary sins. It is far from being mindless or, I'd argue, even erotica -- the sex scenes are not nearly as explicit as one might expect, and are far overshadowed by the intricacies of the novel's many plots and subplots. And, though there is nonconsensual intercourse, the main character's reaction to it is to be thoroughly repulsed, even as her masochistic nature leads her to feel pleasure in it. In this way, as in others, the book walks a fine line, but manages to maintain a steady moral compass.
The theme of consent is threaded throughout the book, in and out of the bedchamber. The main precept of the country's religion is to "Love as thou wilt" -- therefore, rape is not only illegal but the highest form of blasphemy. Similarly, all romantic preferences are accepted by this society, be they in contradiction to class, race, or heteronormativity -- if a nobleman should fall in love with a farmboy, they could live happily together without the scorn of their peers, because their religion decrees that their love is as sacred as any other. And, outside the romantic realms, any citizen may choose his or her own path in life -- and so they do, repeatedly, in the story.
Each character is undeniably distinct -- they each have their own goals, and their own strategies to achieve those goals. This is laudable in any book, but particularly so in one whose list of dramatis personae is over five pages long -- and you'll be glad to have that list by the time you finish the first act of the drama, believe you me. In any case, these many distinct characters with distinct goals lead to many distinct plots, each complicated and layered in its own right, interwoven into a book that is well worth the second read to catch the nuance.
Not only is this first book's structure well-done, but, from the perspective of one who has read those that follow, its foreshadowing of plots to come is particularly admirable. Some details, mentioned in the first hundred pages, seemingly unimportant, will not come into the forefront until one or two books down the line -- yet they are set up here, forming a foundation of a far grander scale, even, than that of the epic adventure contained in this book alone.
I must say, however, that this tight interweaving of plot -- which I cannot stop fawning over -- is not maintained over the course of the series. While all of the books are of high quality, with more than their fair share of intrigue and adventure, this one, I believe, is the most well-written (as series debuts so often are). Still, Jacqueline Carey's talents -- to spin an enthralling tale; to create compassionate, intelligent characters; and to build a fantastically believable world -- are clear in all the books in this series. They shine through the dense shelves of contemporary fantasy, and I very much look forward to reading her other works.
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LibraryThing member Larkken
It's rare when you can find a book that will keep you up and reading hours past your bedtime - on the fourth or fifth time you've read it. Now, it is not that my memory is that bad, the fact is that this book is just that good. Even when I know what will happen, I am eager to follow the intricate
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plot, drawn on into the workings of these characters' minds. The heroine is unconventional (a prostitute who finds pleasure in pain) and utterly unlike most readers, yet there is no problem relating to her despite occasional uncomfortable moments reading more explicit scenes. The scope of the story, on the other hand, is epic. I remember being surprised upon rereading this book at just how much happens in this first installment in the series. Carey has a flair for the dramatic which is delightful, and this entire series upholds the promise of this first book. I only wish that the premise had not put me off when I first looked at this book, or I would have been reading and rereading it for years more than I have. Show Less
LibraryThing member molliewatts
In the land of Terr D'Ange, there is only one rule - "love as thou wilt." Sold to the Night Court by her penniless mother, Phedre grows up knowing she is flawed and unlikely to be accepted as an adept in any of the Night Court houses. Only when she meets Anafiel Delauney does he name the bloodred
The masochistic sexuality in the "Kushiel" books is very explicit, but the books are very well-written and full of political intrigue that twists and turns and keeps the reader fully engrossed.
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mote in her eye for what it is - a prick by Kushiel's Dart, dooming Phedre to forever experience pain and pleasure as one. Delauney purchases Phedre's marque and she becomes part of his household, joining the beautifully ethereal Alcuin as one of Delauney's pupils. Phedre and Alcuin are schooled in the arts of politics and intrigue and immersed in learning history and languages. But it is the arts of a courtesan that motivate Phedre to succeed - and succeed she does. It is only when her beloved Delauney and Alcuin are murdered does she realize what was important to her - but now she and her protector, Joscelin, find themselves at the heart of a political conspiracy that is aimed at uprooting the very foundations of Terre D'Ange. Betrayed, kidnapped, and sold into slavery by someone close to her, Phedre and Joscelin learn to survive any way they can among a brutish and warlike people in a cold and frigid land. Determined to survive and escape, Phedre knows only she can save her kingdom and bring the traitors to justice, for it will take courage beyond measure and an almost inhuman ability to withstand pain.The masochistic sexuality in the "Kushiel" books is very explicit, but the books are very well-written and full of political intrigue that twists and turns and keeps the reader fully engrossed.
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LibraryThing member RoboSchro
"Ysandre's face changed, turning compassionate; she knew, well enough, the truth of my words. 'You're right, of course. I'm sorry, Phèdre. But you must understand, while she is free, with allies to aid her, I will never rest easy on my throne.'"
Set in an alternate version of Renaissance France,
It could be argued that this becomes a flaw at times, as Phèdre's voice doesn't really lend itself to the urgency required of battle scenes. But this is forgivable, as Carey hits enough heights to maintain one's interest.
The European world that is portrayed is beautifully realised, with some marvellous touches that make it unique, but still anchored in recognisable characteristics of our own world. Her characters, too, are vivid and touchingly detailed.
It's a long book, and the ending, though satisfying, is plainly a set-up for a sequel. But it's more than worthwhile.
Set in an alternate version of Renaissance France,
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this is the story of a courtesan caught up in court intrigues, treachery, and war. It's very impressively written. Phèdre nó Delauney, the protagonist, is a remarkable creation. Trained from an early age in decorum, her narrative voice exudes delicacy and elegance. It's unusual to feel the sensibilities of the narrator colour your experience quite so fully. In this, at least, Carey's achievement should be celebrated.It could be argued that this becomes a flaw at times, as Phèdre's voice doesn't really lend itself to the urgency required of battle scenes. But this is forgivable, as Carey hits enough heights to maintain one's interest.
The European world that is portrayed is beautifully realised, with some marvellous touches that make it unique, but still anchored in recognisable characteristics of our own world. Her characters, too, are vivid and touchingly detailed.
It's a long book, and the ending, though satisfying, is plainly a set-up for a sequel. But it's more than worthwhile.
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LibraryThing member bookbrig
I really enjoyed this. The world is beautifully drawn, and while I sometimes lost the thread of the complicated political plotting I appreciated the story's scope and depth. Also, SO MANY of the top-rated reviews on here are like: THE BDSM SEXES IN THIS BOOK ARE SO EXTREME. Apparently those
Anyway, I read this on my e-reader and didn't realize quite how long it was until I came here to rate it. It was a great book to read on vacation, because it gave me time to really savor the story slowly and enjoy the world building.
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reviewers and I have very different tolerances for what we would consider extreme content. I wouldn't necessarily hand this to a 13 year old, but as an adult reader the assignation scenes weren't particularly shocking or nearly as explicit as I would have expected after reading those reviews. Maybe all that fanfic I used to read desensitized me or something. Anyway, I read this on my e-reader and didn't realize quite how long it was until I came here to rate it. It was a great book to read on vacation, because it gave me time to really savor the story slowly and enjoy the world building.
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LibraryThing member RogueBelle
Gorgeous and absorbing. This book is impossible to put down once you start. The world Carey creates is so intricate, so detailed, that you just have to keep plunging along to find out everything you can about it. And I challenge anyone to find a more unique heroine than Phedre -- Carey's made a
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bold choice in focusing her stories around sex in general, but the interplay of sadism and masochism in particular! The characters throughout are amazing -- even those who make only brief cameos are well-drawn and three-dimensional. The first installment of the Kushiel's Legacy series ensures that you'll be back for the rest. Show Less
Subjects
Awards
Audie Award (Finalist — Science Fiction/Fantasy — 2010)
Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award (Winner — Fantasy — 2001)
Locus Award (Finalist — First Novel — 2002)
Chesley Award (Nominee — 2017)
SF Site Reader's Choice (2001)
Gaylactic Spectrum Award (Shortlist — Novel — 2002)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2001-06-23
Physical description
912 p.; 4.18 inches
ISBN
0765342987 / 9780765342980