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Poisoner of Kingfountain #3
The Maid's War: A Kingfountain prequel
From Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler...
Sent on an impossible mission by Kingfountain’s ruler into the heart of the enemy’s capital as two mighty kingdoms prepare for war, Ankarette Tryneowy must divine the location of a magical sword, perhaps their key to victory. What she finds is the truth—one she could never have foreseen.
Searching for Firebos, the sword of ancient kings, is no simple task. It disappeared after one of the most powerful Fountain-blessed figures, the Maid of Donremy, used it in battle, and no one—except perhaps the Maid’s dearest friend, the Duke of La Marche—knows its whereabouts. But when Ankarette finds the aging duke in his prison cell and hears the mystery he unveils, her mission becomes more perilous than she could have possibly imagined.
Sent on an impossible mission by Kingfountain’s ruler into the heart of the enemy’s capital as two mighty kingdoms prepare for war, Ankarette Tryneowy must divine the location of a magical sword, perhaps their key to victory. What she finds is the truth—one she could never have foreseen.
Searching for Firebos, the sword of ancient kings, is no simple task. It disappeared after one of the most powerful Fountain-blessed figures, the Maid of Donremy, used it in battle, and no one—except perhaps the Maid’s dearest friend, the Duke of La Marche—knows its whereabouts. But when Ankarette finds the aging duke in his prison cell and hears the mystery he unveils, her mission becomes more perilous than she could have possibly imagined.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2016
1865 people are currently reading
2676 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
126 books5,219 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
October 25, 2018
Well, that was unexpected.
The Maid's War is a prequel to the Kingfountain series, on which I've recently been binging. This is the second series that I've genuinely devoured by Mr Wheeler, and I found The Maid's War to be a worthy prequel.
It's actually a retelling of the story of Jean d'Arc which has, for years, been one of my favorite magical myths. There were, of course, several differences, as this was an adaptation and not a literal retelling of Ms d'Arc's story. One thing I really appreciated, though, was that Mr Wheeler proffered an explanation as to why Ms d'Arc's voices chose sides in the war. Truly fascinating.
I highly recommend this book if you like fantasy tales and/or have enjoyed the other books in the series. If you are interested in the life and times of Jean d'Arc, the extraordinary person who inspired The Maid's War, I would recommend the historical novel, Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc, by the Sieur Louis de Conte written by Mark Twain, of all people. Apparently he was kind of obsessed with her.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the story.
The Maid's War is a prequel to the Kingfountain series, on which I've recently been binging. This is the second series that I've genuinely devoured by Mr Wheeler, and I found The Maid's War to be a worthy prequel.
It's actually a retelling of the story of Jean d'Arc which has, for years, been one of my favorite magical myths. There were, of course, several differences, as this was an adaptation and not a literal retelling of Ms d'Arc's story. One thing I really appreciated, though, was that Mr Wheeler proffered an explanation as to why Ms d'Arc's voices chose sides in the war. Truly fascinating.
I highly recommend this book if you like fantasy tales and/or have enjoyed the other books in the series. If you are interested in the life and times of Jean d'Arc, the extraordinary person who inspired The Maid's War, I would recommend the historical novel, Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc, by the Sieur Louis de Conte written by Mark Twain, of all people. Apparently he was kind of obsessed with her.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the story.
December 16, 2018
I like Jeff Wheeler's writing style. It's fluent and the world building is fabulous. This prequel to the Kingfountain series is based on the fabled Joan of Arc. Told from Ankarette Tryneowy-The infamous Queen's Poisoner and the Duke of La Marche- Alensson's perspective. The world of Kingfountain is rich and magical. It's full of political maneuverings and deceit and I was immediately attracted towards the duke's character. What let me down was the Maid of Donremy. Her character was bland and under developed. The book was missing the zest that would liven up the story. Even the battle scenes couldn't spark any excitement in me. It did connected a few pieces from the past and prophesied the birth of Owen Kiskaddon and him being Fountain Blessed.
September 11, 2017
4 Stars
I enjoyed this prequel as it gives us backstory not only on Ankarette and her ties to this part of history, but also the full story about "The Maid of Donremy," that has been hinted at in the first three books so far. The sword of King Andrew and the scabbard that made an appearance in the previous books are all part of this story. Alensson, duke of La Marche plays a pivotal role as the tale is told from his point of view. "The Maid's War" is a beautiful ode to the story of Joan of Arc. Having read Mark Twain's book "Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc," this narrative is true to her personality and the unflagging belief she had in her mission. Her compassion, confidence, and courage stand out in this story about sacrifice, duty, honor, and integrity. There are some emotional and tender moments between Alensson (the gentle duke) and Genette (the maid of Donremy) that really touched me. Jeff Wheeler intended this book to be a bridge of sorts between the first three books and the next three books. I loved the ending and the revelation that Ankarette discovers.
I enjoyed this prequel as it gives us backstory not only on Ankarette and her ties to this part of history, but also the full story about "The Maid of Donremy," that has been hinted at in the first three books so far. The sword of King Andrew and the scabbard that made an appearance in the previous books are all part of this story. Alensson, duke of La Marche plays a pivotal role as the tale is told from his point of view. "The Maid's War" is a beautiful ode to the story of Joan of Arc. Having read Mark Twain's book "Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc," this narrative is true to her personality and the unflagging belief she had in her mission. Her compassion, confidence, and courage stand out in this story about sacrifice, duty, honor, and integrity. There are some emotional and tender moments between Alensson (the gentle duke) and Genette (the maid of Donremy) that really touched me. Jeff Wheeler intended this book to be a bridge of sorts between the first three books and the next three books. I loved the ending and the revelation that Ankarette discovers.
July 31, 2017
I loved this book. You can read my full review on Audible. I highly recommend the entire Kingfountain series.
"How her notes of encouragement comforted me. I grew to love her more in those years of prevation than many husbands ever love their wives. Troubles are the furnace, my dear, troubles and heat. Troubles and heat. Does not a baker need fire to stiffen the dough? For every kind of pie there is a proper time in the ovens. The Fountain has a purpose, nay, a recipe, for each of us. If we endure the flames well, then we become more than the eggs, the floor, the spices, the drabs of honey."
"How her notes of encouragement comforted me. I grew to love her more in those years of prevation than many husbands ever love their wives. Troubles are the furnace, my dear, troubles and heat. Troubles and heat. Does not a baker need fire to stiffen the dough? For every kind of pie there is a proper time in the ovens. The Fountain has a purpose, nay, a recipe, for each of us. If we endure the flames well, then we become more than the eggs, the floor, the spices, the drabs of honey."
November 13, 2017
This is a prequel to the KINGFOUNTAIN series, though I think it makes more sense having read the other books first.
While I've thoroughly enjoyed books 1-5, this one was surprisingly flat, mostly because I wasn't drawn to the Maid of Donremy as a character. Wheeler freely admits to basing her on Joan of Arc, which isn't a problem for me, but somehow this maid felt lacking, underdeveloped, uninspiring. A disappointment, because I've been so engrossed by previous stories.
It does provide some interesting background, but I think you'll be more impressed with the rest of the series.
While I've thoroughly enjoyed books 1-5, this one was surprisingly flat, mostly because I wasn't drawn to the Maid of Donremy as a character. Wheeler freely admits to basing her on Joan of Arc, which isn't a problem for me, but somehow this maid felt lacking, underdeveloped, uninspiring. A disappointment, because I've been so engrossed by previous stories.
It does provide some interesting background, but I think you'll be more impressed with the rest of the series.
January 27, 2018
Loved this series. The Maid of Donremy features strongly in the entire series, so reading this prequel has me wanting to go back and re-read the series.
I did find it hard to keep the countries separated during the reading of the series, but I let that go and had a great time. Plus, in political battles, the boundaries always shift anyway. If you want to stay true to this part of the series though, you may find it helpful to read the author's inspiration for the series, and use that as part of the backstory. You can piece things together easier that way.
I did find it hard to keep the countries separated during the reading of the series, but I let that go and had a great time. Plus, in political battles, the boundaries always shift anyway. If you want to stay true to this part of the series though, you may find it helpful to read the author's inspiration for the series, and use that as part of the backstory. You can piece things together easier that way.
February 16, 2024
Great book I really enjoyed how he told about the Sword of the kings and the Scabbard for it. But he didn't know where the sword or the scabbard was. If you're a fan of Fantasy fiction or just a fan of Jeff Wheeler I think you'll love this series.
July 5, 2023
An interesting prequel to the Kingfountain series! I'm not usually eager to read prequels, but when I decided to pick up where I left off in the series, the library didn't have the book I wanted, so I checked this out instead. 😆
I liked the ways it managed to connect with characters and themes from the series even though this is set years earlier. I knew there were a few parallels to Joan of Arc in the Maid's story, but I didn't realize until the author's note at the end that this is, in some ways, a fantasy reimagining of Joan of Arc. That was very cool to learn about!
I wouldn't say I loved this prequel as much as the books that come after, but it's definitely making me want to do a reread of the series as a whole!
I liked the ways it managed to connect with characters and themes from the series even though this is set years earlier. I knew there were a few parallels to Joan of Arc in the Maid's story, but I didn't realize until the author's note at the end that this is, in some ways, a fantasy reimagining of Joan of Arc. That was very cool to learn about!
I wouldn't say I loved this prequel as much as the books that come after, but it's definitely making me want to do a reread of the series as a whole!
March 18, 2019
a very well done prequel for the series.
July 8, 2019
Review to come...
February 28, 2022
Excellent
Excellent retelling of the Joan of Arc story. I always appreciate when an author does their homework and includes facts instead of making up history out of whole cloth.
Excellent retelling of the Joan of Arc story. I always appreciate when an author does their homework and includes facts instead of making up history out of whole cloth.
November 30, 2019
This book was as enjoyable as the rest of the series. I found it interesting that the author based so much of this story on Joan of Arc. I love learning about Joan of Arc, so this was a fun read and actually quite accurate to her life.
March 6, 2018
This review pretty much says exactly what I was thinking.
I had a hard time getting into the book an didn't feel it was as good as the first 3 in the Kingfountain series - especially The King's Traitor which I just finished before picking up this one. I loved that one. But, I kept reading, and it did get a bit better as the story picked up. It filled in some holes, so that was good, but as the review I linked to mentioned - I may not have felt a need to continue the series if this had been the first book I read.
I do look forward to seeing how this bridges the gap between the first 3 books and the next 3...
I had a hard time getting into the book an didn't feel it was as good as the first 3 in the Kingfountain series - especially The King's Traitor which I just finished before picking up this one. I loved that one. But, I kept reading, and it did get a bit better as the story picked up. It filled in some holes, so that was good, but as the review I linked to mentioned - I may not have felt a need to continue the series if this had been the first book I read.
I do look forward to seeing how this bridges the gap between the first 3 books and the next 3...
November 16, 2025
Great prequel to the Kingfountain series. At last we know who "The Maid" is--a person referred to but not explained in the first three Kingfountain novels. The author reveals her story, filled with interesting details of her character and her wars. If I hadn't already read the first three novels before this one was published, I would have read this one first. Still, it didn't contain spoilers of what's to come in the rest of the series; it filled in some gaps to help complete the tale.
July 8, 2022
It was interesting and good. Just not exciting enough for me to want to finish quickly. So I guess that's kind of a disappointment
November 4, 2017
As always very imaginative
Jeff Wheeler does it again! Each book in this series is full of twists and unseen turns! You will never be bored. As always an excellent read!
Jeff Wheeler does it again! Each book in this series is full of twists and unseen turns! You will never be bored. As always an excellent read!
June 15, 2025
"The Maid’s War" by Jeff Wheeler is a captivating blend of historical fantasy and adventure that explores themes of duty, loyalty, and the enduring power of hope. Set in the universe of the "Kingfountain" series, the novel serves as a prequel to Wheeler’s other works, providing readers with a riveting backstory that is both self-contained and deeply enriching for those familiar with the series. At its core, the story revolves around two protagonists: a young nobleman named Alensson and the enigmatic and inspirational figure known as the Maid, a Joan of Arc-like character whose legacy shapes the events of the Kingfountain world.
The Maid’s unwavering belief in her divine calling raises profound questions about faith, destiny, and the nature of leadership. Her conviction inspires others to follow her, yet it also exposes her to the manipulations of those who seek to exploit her for their own gain. Wheeler invites readers to consider the fine line between faith and fanaticism, as well as the cost of pursuing one’s destiny at all costs.
As the narrator and central observer of the Maid’s journey, Alensson provides a grounded perspective on the events of the novel. Through his eyes, readers experience the highs and lows of the Maid’s campaign, as well as the personal growth he undergoes as a result of his experiences. Alensson’s transformation from a reluctant nobleman to a loyal follower and eventual leader is one of the novel’s most satisfying arcs.
As with his other works, Jeff Wheeler excels at creating a richly detailed and immersive world. The setting of "The Maid’s War" is steeped in history, culture, and mythology, with the Fountain serving as a central element that ties together the fantastical and the spiritual. Wheeler’s prose is elegant and accessible, balancing vivid descriptions with engaging dialogue and a strong narrative drive. His ability to blend historical elements with fantastical themes lends the story a timeless quality that resonates with readers.
"The Maid’s War" is a poignant and powerful tale that stands as both a gripping adventure and a profound exploration of human nature. Jeff Wheeler’s skillful storytelling and richly drawn characters make this novel a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and those seeking a story that challenges and inspires in equal measure. Whether you are new to the Kingfountain series or a longtime admirer, "The Maid’s War" offers a compelling glimpse into the origins of a world shaped by courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope.
The Maid’s unwavering belief in her divine calling raises profound questions about faith, destiny, and the nature of leadership. Her conviction inspires others to follow her, yet it also exposes her to the manipulations of those who seek to exploit her for their own gain. Wheeler invites readers to consider the fine line between faith and fanaticism, as well as the cost of pursuing one’s destiny at all costs.
As the narrator and central observer of the Maid’s journey, Alensson provides a grounded perspective on the events of the novel. Through his eyes, readers experience the highs and lows of the Maid’s campaign, as well as the personal growth he undergoes as a result of his experiences. Alensson’s transformation from a reluctant nobleman to a loyal follower and eventual leader is one of the novel’s most satisfying arcs.
As with his other works, Jeff Wheeler excels at creating a richly detailed and immersive world. The setting of "The Maid’s War" is steeped in history, culture, and mythology, with the Fountain serving as a central element that ties together the fantastical and the spiritual. Wheeler’s prose is elegant and accessible, balancing vivid descriptions with engaging dialogue and a strong narrative drive. His ability to blend historical elements with fantastical themes lends the story a timeless quality that resonates with readers.
"The Maid’s War" is a poignant and powerful tale that stands as both a gripping adventure and a profound exploration of human nature. Jeff Wheeler’s skillful storytelling and richly drawn characters make this novel a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and those seeking a story that challenges and inspires in equal measure. Whether you are new to the Kingfountain series or a longtime admirer, "The Maid’s War" offers a compelling glimpse into the origins of a world shaped by courage, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope.
January 28, 2019
3.5 stars
I loved the original Kingfountain trilogy and remember thinking this Maid chick must have been a super bad-ass back in her day. When I heard Mr. Wheeler was writing a prequel centered on that character, I knew I had to get it. I waited quite a while, hoping I'd forget a lot of the details and could soak up the story with a fresh perspective. Having read it, I think the myth was more interesting than the story.
This book is still better than a lot of other fantasy books, I just wasn't all that invested in any of the characters. We get zero backstory on the Maid herself for one. We only meet her after the Fountain has granted her powers and given her visions of the future. So she's basically invincible and omniscient throughout the book. There is little danger for the major players in the story as long as they follow her advice to the letter. And even when thing go badly for the Maid, she has already foreseen it and accepts the outcome willingly. It's somewhat to be expected, I guess, but it drained the tension out of all of the action in the story. Also, I thought her actions would have shaped the course of history for this world. But really all she was there to do was move the chess (excuse me... Wizr) pieces around the board a bit and get thing ready for the real conflict that occurs in the original trilogy. The story felt pretty small when you look back on it.
It did keep my attention for the whole runtime, though. I'd recommend it to any fan of the Kingfountain books. Just don't get your hopes too high on what you'll learn here.
I loved the original Kingfountain trilogy and remember thinking this Maid chick must have been a super bad-ass back in her day. When I heard Mr. Wheeler was writing a prequel centered on that character, I knew I had to get it. I waited quite a while, hoping I'd forget a lot of the details and could soak up the story with a fresh perspective. Having read it, I think the myth was more interesting than the story.
This book is still better than a lot of other fantasy books, I just wasn't all that invested in any of the characters. We get zero backstory on the Maid herself for one. We only meet her after the Fountain has granted her powers and given her visions of the future. So she's basically invincible and omniscient throughout the book. There is little danger for the major players in the story as long as they follow her advice to the letter. And even when thing go badly for the Maid, she has already foreseen it and accepts the outcome willingly. It's somewhat to be expected, I guess, but it drained the tension out of all of the action in the story. Also, I thought her actions would have shaped the course of history for this world. But really all she was there to do was move the chess (excuse me... Wizr) pieces around the board a bit and get thing ready for the real conflict that occurs in the original trilogy. The story felt pretty small when you look back on it.
It did keep my attention for the whole runtime, though. I'd recommend it to any fan of the Kingfountain books. Just don't get your hopes too high on what you'll learn here.
January 30, 2020
Star Rating: 5 stars
Note: This is the 2nd prequel novel to the Kingfountain series and intended to be read after book 3, The King’s Traitor, according the author’s own reading order so this will not be an in-depth review.
As I have probably stated before, one of my goals this year is to finish reading some of the more prolific writers on my TBR. (Robin Hobb, Terry Brooks, and Jeff Wheeler in case you were wondering!!!!!!!) With that being said, I recently finished the Kingfountain series by Jeff Wheeler with The Maid’s War (Yes, I read them out of order because I had to inter-library loan them through my local library, so I read them as they came in.) This tells the story of the Maid of Donremy and her quest to fulfill the Fountain’s wishes in a world filled with treachery and deceit.
The best things about this book is the same things that is good about the entire series, mainly the fact that Wheeler is great at creating female characters that stand on their own as well creating stories that have a kernel of actual history at the center. This story in particular is based on the story of Joan of Arc and the people both inspired and threatened by her, and she also happens to be a strong female character.
All in all, this was a great addition/completion to the series, and I can’t wait to read Wheeler’s other series, actually I already have The Wretched of Muirwood checked out from my library.
Note: This is the 2nd prequel novel to the Kingfountain series and intended to be read after book 3, The King’s Traitor, according the author’s own reading order so this will not be an in-depth review.
As I have probably stated before, one of my goals this year is to finish reading some of the more prolific writers on my TBR. (Robin Hobb, Terry Brooks, and Jeff Wheeler in case you were wondering!!!!!!!) With that being said, I recently finished the Kingfountain series by Jeff Wheeler with The Maid’s War (Yes, I read them out of order because I had to inter-library loan them through my local library, so I read them as they came in.) This tells the story of the Maid of Donremy and her quest to fulfill the Fountain’s wishes in a world filled with treachery and deceit.
The best things about this book is the same things that is good about the entire series, mainly the fact that Wheeler is great at creating female characters that stand on their own as well creating stories that have a kernel of actual history at the center. This story in particular is based on the story of Joan of Arc and the people both inspired and threatened by her, and she also happens to be a strong female character.
All in all, this was a great addition/completion to the series, and I can’t wait to read Wheeler’s other series, actually I already have The Wretched of Muirwood checked out from my library.
May 2, 2019
After reading the previous books in the series, I found this one very disappointing. The previous books held respect for others, compassion and doing the right thing as standards for the protagonists. The Maid of Donremy was written as a person of great compassion and goodness. In this tale as we finally learn about the Maid, she repeatedly harassed and drove out camp followers aka prostitutes. As someone who is supposed to be some paragon of The Fountain, which clearly is a metaphor for Christianity, it would seem far more in character for her to show compassion to these women and help them find other ways of supporting themselves. For as far as I got into the book, the soldiers who consorted with the camp followers weren't criticized or disciplined whereas the women were yelled at, hit and driven from the camp. It focused on this so much in one section early on in the book that I had to stop reading it as I was disgusted by the prejudice. It seemed so incredibly out of character and not the tone expressed everywhere else in the books.
It was very disappointing as I've previously given this author's other books five stars. I now have zero desire to finish the book or read anything else by this author. I've posted this same review on Amazon.
It was very disappointing as I've previously given this author's other books five stars. I now have zero desire to finish the book or read anything else by this author. I've posted this same review on Amazon.
February 26, 2019
Great story worth reading...a real gem!
This story is so we'll written it actually comes alive in your mind. You will actually see it come alive in the stage of your mind... totally unbidden by you. I believe that all excellent storytellers have this gift as does Jeff Wheeler. I read this prequel after I read the first five books of his Kingfountain series. Now I am ready to start reading book six. To date, I have read almost twenty of his books which are well crafted memorable stories really about life. These are excellent books for teenagers, young adults, adults, and the elderly as they teach the timeless principles about real life and not the false lives most of live. This particular book found me crying alot because of the tenders moments in life we all encounter. Real men need to learn to cry xx which comes naturally to women. The this healing that comes from crying and helps us develop forgiveness and compassion.
This story is so we'll written it actually comes alive in your mind. You will actually see it come alive in the stage of your mind... totally unbidden by you. I believe that all excellent storytellers have this gift as does Jeff Wheeler. I read this prequel after I read the first five books of his Kingfountain series. Now I am ready to start reading book six. To date, I have read almost twenty of his books which are well crafted memorable stories really about life. These are excellent books for teenagers, young adults, adults, and the elderly as they teach the timeless principles about real life and not the false lives most of live. This particular book found me crying alot because of the tenders moments in life we all encounter. Real men need to learn to cry xx which comes naturally to women. The this healing that comes from crying and helps us develop forgiveness and compassion.
February 15, 2019
I liked the Maid in the story, this was the main line for me in the book to follow. You do not really need to read the author's note to know that Jean d'Arc was behind the character of the Maid. The Maid was strong and passionate and it is a story about honor and belief. She was everything the story of Jean d'Arc is: compassion, confidence, and courage.
I am reading Jeff Wheeler's books in the order advanced by the author himself in his blog. And I should say, so far it is the right order. Meeting Ankarette here after reading the first 3 books of the Kingfountain brings this warm feeling of nostalgia for the character and her role in this world. The book also brought in some details about the world and lives of people in the Kingfountain, so that was nice. However, I did not find anything new to the magic in the word or the structure. I can even say that if I read this book before the kingfountain series, I would spoil them completely and I would find no hidden story about the world, as secrets were already known and clear.
Therefore I do advice to read these books it as Jeff prescribes, so far this order did not let me down.
I am reading Jeff Wheeler's books in the order advanced by the author himself in his blog. And I should say, so far it is the right order. Meeting Ankarette here after reading the first 3 books of the Kingfountain brings this warm feeling of nostalgia for the character and her role in this world. The book also brought in some details about the world and lives of people in the Kingfountain, so that was nice. However, I did not find anything new to the magic in the word or the structure. I can even say that if I read this book before the kingfountain series, I would spoil them completely and I would find no hidden story about the world, as secrets were already known and clear.
Therefore I do advice to read these books it as Jeff prescribes, so far this order did not let me down.
May 29, 2021
How long will I read Wheeler changing names and details and retelling Medieval history? I don't know, but for at least another book.
This was a fun and engaging read, although I'd add that the similarity of the setup and deuteragonist in this and the first book in the series is striking. That isn't bad - it worked there; it works here, too - but it is interesting. The secondary plot also suffers just a little from a lack of space - but again, this was a very enjoyable read which I'd highly recommend.
I'd add, as an afterthought here but not in my view of the book, that it is incredibly refreshing that Wheeler is willing to put genuinely good characters in his books. Not perfect characters, but good people striving to do the right thing, alongside all the gray (and frankly just evil) characters that are now in vogue.
This was a fun and engaging read, although I'd add that the similarity of the setup and deuteragonist in this and the first book in the series is striking. That isn't bad - it worked there; it works here, too - but it is interesting. The secondary plot also suffers just a little from a lack of space - but again, this was a very enjoyable read which I'd highly recommend.
I'd add, as an afterthought here but not in my view of the book, that it is incredibly refreshing that Wheeler is willing to put genuinely good characters in his books. Not perfect characters, but good people striving to do the right thing, alongside all the gray (and frankly just evil) characters that are now in vogue.
December 21, 2021
Fascinating
As I was first reading this book, I felt as if I knew parts of the story. Finally it dawned on me, this is the story of Joan of Arc! I've read two or three histories, well researched, and have always felt she was truly blessed. Evil blocked her and she ultimately perished, but Good (the Fountain in this case), plays the long game and evil will lose it all in the End Times.
This is the best fictionalized story of Joan of Arc I have read. I think it was cleaned up as to make the book stay PG-13 to MA, because there is much evidence that the Maid was right to wear the clothes of a man because she was forcibly violated while in custody in her tower.
If history draws you in, especially that of France, do yourself a favor. The four books I've read in this historical epoch have been, well, Fascinating. Read them all.
As I was first reading this book, I felt as if I knew parts of the story. Finally it dawned on me, this is the story of Joan of Arc! I've read two or three histories, well researched, and have always felt she was truly blessed. Evil blocked her and she ultimately perished, but Good (the Fountain in this case), plays the long game and evil will lose it all in the End Times.
This is the best fictionalized story of Joan of Arc I have read. I think it was cleaned up as to make the book stay PG-13 to MA, because there is much evidence that the Maid was right to wear the clothes of a man because she was forcibly violated while in custody in her tower.
If history draws you in, especially that of France, do yourself a favor. The four books I've read in this historical epoch have been, well, Fascinating. Read them all.
October 9, 2022
This book provides many details of topics discussed in the first three books of the Kingfountain series.
If you enjoy learnings details about topics familiar to you, follow the recommendation of the author and read this book after you read the first three books of the Kingfountain series. If you enjoy already knowing the details when the topics are mentioned, then read this book first. In any case, READ THIS BOOK. It is an emotional read; intrigue, anger, betrayal, sadness.
I am not sure four stars is a fair rating because I have rated other books five stars that are not as good as this book. I am rating it as a comparison of the other books in the series and I did not enjoy this one as much as the others, so, four stars it is. Don't let that dissuade you though, I would still recommend this book to anyone who asks.
If you enjoy learnings details about topics familiar to you, follow the recommendation of the author and read this book after you read the first three books of the Kingfountain series. If you enjoy already knowing the details when the topics are mentioned, then read this book first. In any case, READ THIS BOOK. It is an emotional read; intrigue, anger, betrayal, sadness.
I am not sure four stars is a fair rating because I have rated other books five stars that are not as good as this book. I am rating it as a comparison of the other books in the series and I did not enjoy this one as much as the others, so, four stars it is. Don't let that dissuade you though, I would still recommend this book to anyone who asks.
May 16, 2018
This prequel tells the story of the Maid of Donremy - a semi-mythological figure in the later Kingfountain series - and explains how she prophesies Ankarette's pivotal role in the birth of Owen Kiskaddon. The book alternates between the Maid's story, as told by the disgraced Duke of La Marche who fought alongside her, and the story of Ankarette's attempt to rescue the Duke from imprisonment late in his life.
Like all Wheeler's novels, this one is well-written and provides plenty of (fictional) historical detail. But it lacks the depth and color of the main Kingfountain series; I didn't feel any of the main characters were particularly well-developed and there was little subtlety to the plot. It was mostly a straightforward explication of history.
Like all Wheeler's novels, this one is well-written and provides plenty of (fictional) historical detail. But it lacks the depth and color of the main Kingfountain series; I didn't feel any of the main characters were particularly well-developed and there was little subtlety to the plot. It was mostly a straightforward explication of history.
January 21, 2019
This is a very solid book. It reads easy and quickly and there is nothing inherently wrong with it. I read it in the order the author suggested and they may be where any heartburn comes in. After reading so much about the "current" state of the kingdoms, it was hard to put myself in the past with this. It also caused me to have even more questions about the current, which may or may not be answered in the next trilogy. I have yet to get that far. Besides that though, the book is still very good. The characters do not quite have the same development, but that has somewhat to do with the flashback type story it is. I will read again when I reread the whole series but I may change the order next time.
March 21, 2019
This was a nice prequel about the Maid of Donremy. It had a bit of a rough start by introducing a lot of characters who I neither knew nor cared about. However, once I got into the book, I found the two main characters (Alan and Jenette) to be pretty interesting and I found the story pretty compelling. It didn't really center on Ankarette at all...she was merely a plot device to let Alan tell his story. The book centered a lot on the sacrifices of following the fountain and giving up one's own desires. There is a lot of parallel here with many religions. The end of course had both good and bad fates for both characters, and a few surprises despite knowing the ultimate fate mentioned in the later books. It did well to set up everything up for the rest of the series and was well worth it.
December 10, 2023
The Maid’s War is something of a prequel to the other books in the Kingfountain series. The story is being told by one Alensson, Duke of La Marche to Ankarette Tryneowy, who has been sent by Eredur, King of Ceredigion to find the sword of the Maid of Donremy.
Alensson is currently being held prisoner by the king of Occitania, and alongside the history of the past in the days of the Maid, the book follows the progress of the current war between Cereigion and Occitana.
The Maid of Donremy (clearly a Joan-of-Arc type of figure) has been mentioned repeatedly in the other Kingfountain books – either her, or her sword, or her armor, all of which were notoriously fountain-blessed. It is good to finally hear her own story told by one of her staunchest supporters.
Alensson is currently being held prisoner by the king of Occitania, and alongside the history of the past in the days of the Maid, the book follows the progress of the current war between Cereigion and Occitana.
The Maid of Donremy (clearly a Joan-of-Arc type of figure) has been mentioned repeatedly in the other Kingfountain books – either her, or her sword, or her armor, all of which were notoriously fountain-blessed. It is good to finally hear her own story told by one of her staunchest supporters.
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