Fantasy novel by C. L. Polk
Stormsong is a 2020 gaslamp fantasy novel by Canadian author C. L. Polk. It is the second book in The Kingston Cycle series, which takes place in a fictional world in a country called Aeland. "Stormsong" continues the overarching political fantasy plot begun in "Witchmark", the first book in the series, while also featuring a self-contained murder mystery and romance unique to this volume. It was first published by Tor Books.
Synopsis.
Having helped her brother Miles end the horrific practice of draining the strength of witches to power the realm, Dame Grace Hensley now finds herself entangled in the intrigues of a nation in both internal and external crisis. There's no easy replacement for the witches' power, the war is still raging with no end in sight, and court politics are potentially deadly. To make matters worse, the fae-like and powerful Amaranthines have arrived to hold the human realms accountable for their actions. And with the prospect of revolution in the air, Grace must also contend with the tenacious reporter, Avia Jessup, who is capturing her heart but whose interests sometimes conflict with her own.
Reception.
"Stormsong" was ranked 11th in the Locus Award vote for Best Fantasy Novel.
In a starred review, "Publishers Weekly" calls "Stormsong" a "superb sequel" that blends "political intrigue, witchcraft, and queer romance". The review further adds that "Polk’s ambitious worldbuilding never encumbers her assured, action-packed pacing, deep characters, and genuine emotion. This delectable treat is a worthy follow-up to her debut." Catherine Rockwood, in a review for "Strange Horizons", also calls "Stormsong" "a rewarding follow-up to a terrific debut novel" and praises the pacing of the action, though she unfavorably compares the romance of Grace and Avia to that of Miles and Tristan in "Witchmark". The "Library Journal" review asserts that "familiar and favorite characters support the young woman who takes center stage, while Polk's charming prose frames an original and witty story filled with action and romantic tension."
The "Kirkus" review describes "Stormsong" as "A thoughtful and passionate depiction of one woman’s struggle to discover her truest self." "Locus" notes that while "not a perfect book", "Stormsong" includes "delightful fantasy elements", a compelling inner journey of the main character, Grace, and a compelling political context. According to the review, these elements, along with fast-paced action and a narrative "unique enough to be entertaining and familiar enough not to be mystifying", result in a "cracking read" and a worthy addition to fantasy literature.
References.
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