Middlegame by Seanan McGuire. (4/5) An intriguing interlocked journey of two heroes, drowning in schemes and maneuvering. A fascinating take on altering time.
Nostalgic reread – Hawk of May by Gillian Bradshaw. (5/5) Arthurian myth set shortly after Rome retreats from Britain; Gwalchmai is humble, sorcerous, repentant and inspiring. It’d make for a tremendous Pendragon game…
Kingdom of Summer (the sequel to Hawk) shifts gears. (5/5) We follow Rhys, who gives up his family to serve Gwalchmai and the light. His common sense is such a contrast, steady effort lands him dangerous insight.
In Winter’s Shadow (the final book of the trilogy) brings us Gwynhwyfar’s story. (4/5) Only a superb telling makes her sympathetic, but she is. The kingdom crumbles, despite so many people striving and sacrificing… the seeds of division and pride are too strong.
Elidor by Alan Garner. (2/5). Fast paced, set immediately after WWII, with an interesting “through the wardrobe” into Elidor. Well written but oddly paced, and foreign due to the London side of things (strangely enough).
Blackbirds by Chuck Wendig; 4/5. This kicks off the Miriam Black books, and does so compellingly. Miriam’s a great heroine, though unpleasant to be around. She faces way too much, and endures.
Mockingbird, Miriam Black #2, by Chuck Wendig. It starts off strong, then turns into an interesting investigation. Louis makes a great foil to the life she wants to lead, and that she resists, and the family’s dark gift and acts make sense.
The Cormorant, Miriam Black #3, by Chuck Wendig. Miriam goes to Florida, which has such a strong sense of place. She almost understands the creep terrorizing her life this time , even though nothing goes right. Her resolve to abandon her curse feels authentic.
Remnant Population by Elizabeth Moon is amazing and complex; it was hard to put down. Reminds me favorably of A Key, An Egg, and Unfortunate Remark by Harry Connolly — and not just for the age of the leading lady. (5/5)