I discovered a collection of four novellas by Sharon Shinn, each set in the world of ones of her novel series - it's called Quatrain and I just finished listening to the audiobook. It took me a little while to get used to the narrator's voice - I can't put my finger on why - but after half an hour or so I settled in and really enjoyed her reading of the four stories.
Flight brought me back to the world of angels and the archangel Raphael, who is in charge at the start of the first Samaria book. It's a dark tale that reveals more about his depredations but I liked the protagonist a lot and enjoyed seeing her get the best of him.
Blood was set in the world of Heart of Gold, which I wasn't sure I'd read, though my reviews catalogue tells me I did, back in 2007. This short story does a good job of portraying the ins and outs of the society in a very short space and I enjoyed seeing the journey of the protagonist in the search for his birth mother. There are a lot of layers that build a complex picture of one person's life, which is impressively done.
Gold revisits Summers at Castle Auburn, which I also read in 2007 but don't really remember. What's interesting about this story is that very little actual happens and the princess spends her whole time hiding from the ostensive threat, but the tone gives a sense of potential danger underlying the apparently lovely realm of Alora really effectively.
Flame was my favourite because it gave me Senneth, the main character from Mystic and Rider, and I'm always happy for a chance to spend time with her. She didn't disappoint, giving me a great companion for a fun and satisfying adventure.
So, all in all, a highly enjoyable romp through Shinn's worlds. I can't wait for her to come out with something new!
Flight brought me back to the world of angels and the archangel Raphael, who is in charge at the start of the first Samaria book. It's a dark tale that reveals more about his depredations but I liked the protagonist a lot and enjoyed seeing her get the best of him.
Blood was set in the world of Heart of Gold, which I wasn't sure I'd read, though my reviews catalogue tells me I did, back in 2007. This short story does a good job of portraying the ins and outs of the society in a very short space and I enjoyed seeing the journey of the protagonist in the search for his birth mother. There are a lot of layers that build a complex picture of one person's life, which is impressively done.
Gold revisits Summers at Castle Auburn, which I also read in 2007 but don't really remember. What's interesting about this story is that very little actual happens and the princess spends her whole time hiding from the ostensive threat, but the tone gives a sense of potential danger underlying the apparently lovely realm of Alora really effectively.
Flame was my favourite because it gave me Senneth, the main character from Mystic and Rider, and I'm always happy for a chance to spend time with her. She didn't disappoint, giving me a great companion for a fun and satisfying adventure.
So, all in all, a highly enjoyable romp through Shinn's worlds. I can't wait for her to come out with something new!