Series: Chronicles of the Bitch Queen #2
Published by Orbit on September 22, 2020
Genres: Epic Fantasy
Pages: 640
Format: Paperback
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“I am Yeshin’s only daughter . . . I have never been allowed to be like most.”
Abandoned by her people, Queen Talyien stumbles upon a sinister plot to displace her king and kill her son. To save them, she must find her way back home with the aid of questionable allies. But the only threats to her kingdom come not only from abroad. Back in Jin-Sayeng, warlords quarrel, monsters lurk in human guise, and mad dragons rampage in the West. And everywhere, Tali must confront the myth built around her: Warlord Yeshin’s daughter, symbol of peace, warrior and queen.
“In my world, love was a drawn sword. You could use it to cut others or you could use it to cut yourself.”
Tali’s story shows how deeply family impacts our lives. Though Yeshin and Thanh are not physically present in Tali’s journey, their existence deeply influences her story. In The Wolf of Oren-Yaro, we learned about Yeshin’s secret plots, which continue to play out after his death. The Ikessar Falcon explores the impact of his legacy on her life, reign, and the people around her: from the innocents who get caught up in Tali’s misfortunes to the plotters who seek to use Tali’s name and position for their own purposes.
Tali and Rayyel also confront their past mistakes and their impact on the present. I’ve talked about this a bit in my review of book one, so I won’t go into detail here. But I did enjoy how The Ikessar Falcon expands their story, and the stories of the people around them.
“That is the tune the whole world dances to. Some are born with the power to turn the tide even before they realize what they’re doing. Others . . . aren’t. Some of us have to fight to make a difference from the moment we are born. We try to crest along calm waters because we are helpless against the tide, and even then, a single wave might be enough to sweep us away.”
As with book one, an older Tali reflects on the past as she looks back on (what is for us) the present timeline, and she also includes flashbacks to her youth.The Ikessar Falcon features much that I love in a good epic fantasy: monsters and magic, fierce action scenes and characters full of heart, a fleshed-out world and high stakes that drive the plot forward. As with book one, an older Tali reflects on the past as she looks back on (what is for us) the present timeline, and she also includes flashbacks to her youth.
I loved learning more about Tali’s connections to the people and places of Jin-Sayeng—and can’t wait for book 3!
Rating R
View Spoiler »Bias Notes
As an Asian, I am predisposed to liking books by Asian authors and which are steeped in Asian culture. I could relate to meeting people over food and to the expectation that the eldest child be perfect.
Lindsi says
This sounds really good! I just added this and the first book to my TBR. 🙂 I’m always looking for new and amazing fantasies. <3
Lindsi @ Do You Dog-ear? 💬
Crystal (Kester) says
Yes! I hope you enjoy this one, Lindsi!