Alfie likes this book too!
Reviewed: September 23rd, 2020
First publication date: 2001
The Curse of Chalion is one of my favourite go-to books and I have no doubt that it has influenced my own writing. I have read it many, many times, but I wanted to share a review in the hope that I can introduce new readers to this wonderful world of gods and demons. You may already know Bujold from her Vorkosigan saga books, but she also writes amazing fantasy novels.
Each time I read the Curse of Chalion, I am immersed in Bujold’s wonderful world—the world of the five gods. I love the characters who leap off the page, the rich worldbuilding and the engaging storyline. This story stays with you long after you finished reading, as your brain continues to make all the connections that she left for us.
Cazaril is returning home, after three years of suffering as a slave on a Roknari war galley. He is a shadow of the man he once was, worn and sick and hoping for scraps from the Provincara’s table, as he has no-where else to go. He has lost everything, from his titles to his name to his self-respect.
We join Cazaril on a journey as is he thrown in with the young Royce and Royesse of Chalion, the step-brother and sister of the childless ruler of Chalion, Roya Orico. Cazaril must assist his charge in navigating the murky waters of politics and intrigue whilst trying to avoid confrontation with those who caused his downfall.
This is an exquisite story, rich and complex, and I highly recommend it if you love relatable characters and epic fantasy adventure. Bujold’s command of description and turn of phrase is sublime and you won’t regret picking up this book. And if you do, you’ll be glad to know there are more novels in this world, from a follow-on novel called A Palladin of Souls introducing more exquisite characters to the Penric’s demon’s series.
As I am sure you can tell, I am a fan!
Enjoy!
Link to book on: Amazon UK
If you enjoy fantasy books then you will love my upcoming book which is available in eBook on pre-order now, and launching October 11th, 2020: Sentinals Awaken. Sign up to my newsletter and download a free novella called Sentinals Stirring and get notified when my next books are published.
Helen Garraway 