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Legends of Ithyria #2
Prayer of the Handmaiden
When the Goddess Ithyris appoints shy priestess Kadrian to become Her first shaa’din, or holy warrior, in a millennium, everyone is mystified by Her decision—especially Kade herself. On the battlefields of Mondera, as Kade struggles to defend Ithyria from a dangerous new enemy, she’s also brought face-to-face with her greatest personal temptation: the childhood sweetheart who had once nearly kept Kade from her spiritual calling.
Erinda was born into the service of the royal family. Endless household chores and a passion for horses fill her days, but her nights are consumed with hopeless longing for the woman she lost to the temple seven winters ago. Erinda knows Kade will never return to her. After all, what mortal could ever hope to compete with a Goddess?
Erinda was born into the service of the royal family. Endless household chores and a passion for horses fill her days, but her nights are consumed with hopeless longing for the woman she lost to the temple seven winters ago. Erinda knows Kade will never return to her. After all, what mortal could ever hope to compete with a Goddess?
264 pages, Paperback
First published March 16, 2015
19 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
About the author
Merry Shannon
4 books134 followersMerry Shannon was born in California and grew up a military brat. Raised in a conservative family, she was not allowed to watch cartoons and moved around so much that she made few friends; and so she turned to books for companionship and entertainment. She fell in love with reading at a very young age, and soon began to write her own stories.
Her love of fantasy and adventure began very early, and at the age of thirteen Merry completed her first novel-length story. She continued to write throughout high school, and graduated college in 2001 with a B.A. in English. Romance is her favorite genre, so most of her work features a blossoming relationship in a fantasy/adventure setting. Her first book, Sword of the Guardian, recieved two Golden Crown Literary Awards in 2007.
Currently Merry lives with her partner and their many assorted animals in sunny Denver. She’s a full time social worker who writes in her spare time. When she’s not writing she enjoys home improvement projects, reading, watching movies, traveling, sewing and crafts, and spending time with friends.
Her love of fantasy and adventure began very early, and at the age of thirteen Merry completed her first novel-length story. She continued to write throughout high school, and graduated college in 2001 with a B.A. in English. Romance is her favorite genre, so most of her work features a blossoming relationship in a fantasy/adventure setting. Her first book, Sword of the Guardian, recieved two Golden Crown Literary Awards in 2007.
Currently Merry lives with her partner and their many assorted animals in sunny Denver. She’s a full time social worker who writes in her spare time. When she’s not writing she enjoys home improvement projects, reading, watching movies, traveling, sewing and crafts, and spending time with friends.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 6, 2017
A wonderful sequel to the Sword of the Guardian. And I must say that the questions and criticism I had in my review of that book have partly been answered or amended.
In my opinion, this book was much better than the first one.
First of all the conflict was more concise and required more struggle and character development. In the first book, I had the feeling that the whole Goddess intervention came as a cheap resolve. It seemed to be disconnected from the personal struggle of Talon and Shasta and seemed to be further watered down the political struggles. In "Prayer of the Handmaiden" the established theme struggle between light and dark is further honed down to struggle between love and understanding - hatred and fear. Kadrian's coming to terms with her love for Erinda is ultimately the reason for the conflict and its solution.
Even though I was terribly fed up with Talon for the most part of the book it made sense to tie her struggle into the overall conflict and solution.
One minor annoyance I still have is that Ulrike, which is the name of the evil brother of the Goddess, is actually a female name. This jarred me every time it was mentioned.
However, this has been a beautiful read. I would really like to know what will happen in the battle between Ithyris and the Flesh-God Ulrike, so I'm rooting for a third book in this series. One step toward enlightenment is done - the comprehension that love is more important than any other callings. Now let everybody else see this too. Let them be a shining example.
In my opinion, this book was much better than the first one.
First of all the conflict was more concise and required more struggle and character development. In the first book, I had the feeling that the whole Goddess intervention came as a cheap resolve. It seemed to be disconnected from the personal struggle of Talon and Shasta and seemed to be further watered down the political struggles. In "Prayer of the Handmaiden" the established theme struggle between light and dark is further honed down to struggle between love and understanding - hatred and fear. Kadrian's coming to terms with her love for Erinda is ultimately the reason for the conflict and its solution.
Even though I was terribly fed up with Talon for the most part of the book it made sense to tie her struggle into the overall conflict and solution.
One minor annoyance I still have is that Ulrike, which is the name of the evil brother of the Goddess, is actually a female name. This jarred me every time it was mentioned.
However, this has been a beautiful read. I would really like to know what will happen in the battle between Ithyris and the Flesh-God Ulrike, so I'm rooting for a third book in this series. One step toward enlightenment is done - the comprehension that love is more important than any other callings. Now let everybody else see this too. Let them be a shining example.
January 4, 2016
I loved Sword of the Guardian and was expecting to like this too, but I actually liked it even more (I'm also glad I was able to read them back to back--I can't imagine waiting years between them like so many other people did). It was even more emotional and the romance was even more hard won. I was glad to see more of Talon and Shasta, especially as they worked through some of their challenges.
August 20, 2023
Rounding up.
Despite it being an older book, the story still seems to hold up. Much like the first one, it's a classic, high fantasy world, but this book focuses more on the goddess and the religion dedicated to her.
I don't believe there is another book in the series, but I would have liked to learn more about Ulrike (the villain god) and what all happened in the world. Don't expect a classic end to the bad guy. The larger problem is left pretty open, but the individual story does get resolved neatly.
If you're looking for some high fantasy but with a classic sapphic fiction feel this might be for you. It's not necessarily full of action and the book does spend a lot of time describing the goddess' religion, but the world was well developed and expanded on what was touched on from Sword of the Guardian.
Despite it being an older book, the story still seems to hold up. Much like the first one, it's a classic, high fantasy world, but this book focuses more on the goddess and the religion dedicated to her.
I don't believe there is another book in the series, but I would have liked to learn more about Ulrike (the villain god) and what all happened in the world. Don't expect a classic end to the bad guy. The larger problem is left pretty open, but the individual story does get resolved neatly.
If you're looking for some high fantasy but with a classic sapphic fiction feel this might be for you. It's not necessarily full of action and the book does spend a lot of time describing the goddess' religion, but the world was well developed and expanded on what was touched on from Sword of the Guardian.
February 24, 2015
I've never read a book by this author that I didn't like and this one is no exception. She's a fantastic writer of fantasy. Her world-building is impeccable, and her plotting full of twists and turns. "Handmaiden" brings back her much loved characters from "Sword of the Guardian" and continues the story by bringing two new characters to the forefront. There is magic, battle scenes, an unlikely heroine and -- I especially like -- a maid who never sees her station in life as less than anyone else's. Great tale, great writing.
February 25, 2015
I have loved and enjoy reading Sword of the Guardian and have been waiting for this "sequel" ever since.
The writing is just superb, reading the book, you can almost feel Kade's out of the world experience with Ithyris, everything is described so vividly right in front of your eyes. Admittedly, I've tried to take a peek at the end of the story and lol.... glad to say for once that there are so many different twists and turns that I end up starting again at where I've left off. To some, Kade will be an unlikely heroine - timid, uncomfortable with attention and tears easily. To me though, Kade is just perfect as the way she is - loyal, selfless and holding such faith and inner strength despite everything that's happening. Erinda and Kade's story is sweet, heartbreaking and endearing. Their love, connection and devotion to each other transcends time and boundaries, I think they're just destined to be together.
Highly recommending this if you've enjoyed the author's previous work or is a fan of the fantasy genre.
P.S. - I've obtained this review copy from NetGalley
The writing is just superb, reading the book, you can almost feel Kade's out of the world experience with Ithyris, everything is described so vividly right in front of your eyes. Admittedly, I've tried to take a peek at the end of the story and lol.... glad to say for once that there are so many different twists and turns that I end up starting again at where I've left off. To some, Kade will be an unlikely heroine - timid, uncomfortable with attention and tears easily. To me though, Kade is just perfect as the way she is - loyal, selfless and holding such faith and inner strength despite everything that's happening. Erinda and Kade's story is sweet, heartbreaking and endearing. Their love, connection and devotion to each other transcends time and boundaries, I think they're just destined to be together.
Highly recommending this if you've enjoyed the author's previous work or is a fan of the fantasy genre.
P.S. - I've obtained this review copy from NetGalley
October 11, 2017
I am left without words. First I thought it couldn't get any better from the Sword of the Guardian, but I had known Merry has a brilliant mind and she would surprise me again, but I didn't dare utter it. When I finished reading this book I was like in a moment of unspeakable BLISS!!! Rin and Kade have me wishing yet again that I would be lucky enough to find a love as strong as theirs. My, what a powerful surge of hope filled my heart.
Sometimes in life, one thinks: how will they make it through the day. One stops believing they would ever be happy and even if great things are happening to them, there is still that bitterness which comes with not having someone at their side to share those things with them. It's a troubling feeling of emptiness that one must fight with throughout the day and this book has helped me do just that. I relished every moment of every phrase I read and built up my courage to face tomorrow with a smile on my face.
Thank you, Merry! I pray to the Goddess she'll bless you with even more inspiration for the next books. :)
Sometimes in life, one thinks: how will they make it through the day. One stops believing they would ever be happy and even if great things are happening to them, there is still that bitterness which comes with not having someone at their side to share those things with them. It's a troubling feeling of emptiness that one must fight with throughout the day and this book has helped me do just that. I relished every moment of every phrase I read and built up my courage to face tomorrow with a smile on my face.
Thank you, Merry! I pray to the Goddess she'll bless you with even more inspiration for the next books. :)
March 30, 2016
While not as good as the first, this is an enjoyable sequel. The book wraps up the main story, at the end, but leaves it open for another. I hope Shannon writes another, maybe staring Talon's sister. That was another nice thing about Prayer of the Handmaiden, you got to continue the stories of the character you love from the first book. Though, Shannon did make Talon much more annoying in this book. Hopefully, she'll fix that in the next.
If you liked the first book, you will enjoy this.
If you liked the first book, you will enjoy this.
January 12, 2018
wow..!!!
March 22, 2015
Find this review & more @ bookishsilvertongue
I was given a free review copy through netgalley
Prayer of the handmaiden is not a good fantasy novel. The plot is predictable, the characters have weak motives to be involved in the war, the antagonists are worse than two dimensional, and the worldbuilding is pretty much non-existent. It's a mediocre fantasy novel, only reaching good in its shiniest moments.
So why four stars?
Well, because while this is not an exceptional fantasy novel, it is a fantastic romance.
It's not made to get lost in a detailed, breathing world, nor to wonder endlessly about the workings and trappings of magic.
It's for swooning and giggling as the main characters pine for each other, and gasping as they seem to fumble their chances at a long-lasting relationship (and, because this is still fantasy, when they get hit by medieval weapons). And it does a damned good job with it.
I have said, multiple times, that I am starved for female/female romances in fantasy settings, and will read pretty much anything to satisfy my craving, but this is not a case of “there is so little of it anything will do”: it's an amazing romance.
The main characters are both very well developed. It doesn't feel at all like one is the protagonist and the other the love interest, they share the main role equally. I really appreciated this. Since there were so many misunderstandings in their separation, if it had been done differently it would risk have readers demonise the love interest.
They also have a very caring and beautiful relationship, which despite the angst never gets toxic or abusive (even though they worry constantly they might be bad for the other).
Other than the romance, I think the best element in the novel where the characters, both primary and secondary ones. Shasta and Talon were of course well-fleshed, as they were the main characters of the previous installment (which I regrettably still haven't read), but the rest of the supporting cast was interesting as well. The only fault was with the antagonists: save for the rival sha'adin, they were mooks completely devoid of personality.
As many other elements in the novel (the magic system/pantheon to name one that I really hoped would develop further), they are only devices to further the romance.
But, as I have already said, I gave up pretty soon any expectation of finding a good or original fantasy tale, and reveled in the well-written romance.
The only thing that seriously hindered my enjoyment of the novel was the heteronormative society. Maybe it was magnified by some upsetting remarks I happened to hear in real life while reading Prayer of the Handmaiden, but it didn't seem right for the setting of a whole series focusing on lesbian couples.
I was given a free review copy through netgalley
Prayer of the handmaiden is not a good fantasy novel. The plot is predictable, the characters have weak motives to be involved in the war, the antagonists are worse than two dimensional, and the worldbuilding is pretty much non-existent. It's a mediocre fantasy novel, only reaching good in its shiniest moments.
So why four stars?
Well, because while this is not an exceptional fantasy novel, it is a fantastic romance.
It's not made to get lost in a detailed, breathing world, nor to wonder endlessly about the workings and trappings of magic.
It's for swooning and giggling as the main characters pine for each other, and gasping as they seem to fumble their chances at a long-lasting relationship (and, because this is still fantasy, when they get hit by medieval weapons). And it does a damned good job with it.
I have said, multiple times, that I am starved for female/female romances in fantasy settings, and will read pretty much anything to satisfy my craving, but this is not a case of “there is so little of it anything will do”: it's an amazing romance.
The main characters are both very well developed. It doesn't feel at all like one is the protagonist and the other the love interest, they share the main role equally. I really appreciated this. Since there were so many misunderstandings in their separation, if it had been done differently it would risk have readers demonise the love interest.
They also have a very caring and beautiful relationship, which despite the angst never gets toxic or abusive (even though they worry constantly they might be bad for the other).
Other than the romance, I think the best element in the novel where the characters, both primary and secondary ones. Shasta and Talon were of course well-fleshed, as they were the main characters of the previous installment (which I regrettably still haven't read), but the rest of the supporting cast was interesting as well. The only fault was with the antagonists: save for the rival sha'adin, they were mooks completely devoid of personality.
As many other elements in the novel (the magic system/pantheon to name one that I really hoped would develop further), they are only devices to further the romance.
But, as I have already said, I gave up pretty soon any expectation of finding a good or original fantasy tale, and reveled in the well-written romance.
The only thing that seriously hindered my enjoyment of the novel was the heteronormative society. Maybe it was magnified by some upsetting remarks I happened to hear in real life while reading Prayer of the Handmaiden, but it didn't seem right for the setting of a whole series focusing on lesbian couples.
Read
January 31, 2018It's incredibly rare that I enjoy a sequel more than the original, but that was the case for Prayer of the Handmaiden. It took me a little longer to get into, but when I did, I loved it. The author is particularly good at explaining her unique fantasy elements without breaking up the flow of the story, and her descriptions make the fantastic settings easy to visualize. Sometimes the dialogue is a bit odd, and character motivations can be a little weak, but the benefits outweighed the drawbacks in my case.
At first I was disappointed that this book wasn't going to be following Talon and Shasta directly, but I actually ended up liking Erinda and Kadrian more! It doesn't help that, in this book, Shasta and Talon spend a lot of time being kind of stupid about their relationship.
Though it does pick up right where the last book left off, you can easily read this as a stand-alone. The story is a little darker than the previous book, but it works with the plot. It ends on a teaser for a third novel, but there doesn't seem to be any information regarding it on the internet. I do hope the project hasn't been dropped!
At first I was disappointed that this book wasn't going to be following Talon and Shasta directly, but I actually ended up liking Erinda and Kadrian more! It doesn't help that, in this book, Shasta and Talon spend a lot of time being kind of stupid about their relationship.
Though it does pick up right where the last book left off, you can easily read this as a stand-alone. The story is a little darker than the previous book, but it works with the plot. It ends on a teaser for a third novel, but there doesn't seem to be any information regarding it on the internet. I do hope the project hasn't been dropped!
March 17, 2018
I would recommend reading the first book in the series before this one so that you already have an understanding of the world and its characters. Such a delightful story. The characters have depth and the plot well developed. You will not be disappointed. The Goddess ceremony with the new Shaa'din is delicious. The villain is ruthless and creates enough tension for you not to want to stop reading until you reach the conclusion. I love that this book includes the characters from the first, but they do not take over the telling of this new adventure. It is a time for the new characters to shine and for the reader to embrace another worthwhile read.
December 28, 2018
Sword of the Guardian was the first Bold Strokes book I ever picked up and it really set the bar - Merry Shannon remains my favourite BS author and this 2nd Legend of Ithyria lived up to all my expectations.
It follows Erinda (Rin) - lady in waiting to Princess Shasta and her doomed love for her childhood best friend Kaderin (Kade) who ended their relationship to become priestess of the goddess Ithyris. Kade is shocked when the Goddess singles her out to be a Shaa'din (warrior-nun) the first to be appointed in over a century. She's sent on a quest to find a mysterious prophesy and keep it from enemy hands. She of course re-encounters Rin who is accompanying Talon to the same city.
Where do I begin? Characters. I adored both Rin and Kade. I love priest themed forbidden romances - faith vs human desire and this one is handled beautifully - I like how Kade is never quite comfortable in her own skin and views her desires as un-natural.
I also love the continuation of the Shasta/Talon romance. It makes so much sense that Talon thinks she should leave so that Shasta can marry and produce a legitimate heir - Talon's never felt she's good enough for her princess and as much as you want to knock some sense in to her annoyingly self sacrificing self, it does make sense.
I liked both the romance and personal journeys as much as the external plot of the Goddess (spirit) in constant war with her brother (flesh). Ok I was getting flashes of Star Wars - Kade's warrior-nun does feel a bit Jedi as do her powers seem like manipulation of the Force but I didn't mind that too much.
I also ought to mention the writing which is pretty solid. I've read a lot of lesbian romance with over use of christian names to avoid her/her pronoun confusion, lack of description and just really flat prose with way too much dialogue. I felt the balance on this was spot on. Good pace, right level of description and nice use of flashbacks to flesh out our heroine's pasts.
I really hope we get a volume 3 soon because I'd love to visit the world of Ithyria again - This series manages a half decent fantasy plot with emotionally satisfying f/f romance - definitely top end of the genre.
It follows Erinda (Rin) - lady in waiting to Princess Shasta and her doomed love for her childhood best friend Kaderin (Kade) who ended their relationship to become priestess of the goddess Ithyris. Kade is shocked when the Goddess singles her out to be a Shaa'din (warrior-nun) the first to be appointed in over a century. She's sent on a quest to find a mysterious prophesy and keep it from enemy hands. She of course re-encounters Rin who is accompanying Talon to the same city.
Where do I begin? Characters. I adored both Rin and Kade. I love priest themed forbidden romances - faith vs human desire and this one is handled beautifully - I like how Kade is never quite comfortable in her own skin and views her desires as un-natural.
I also love the continuation of the Shasta/Talon romance. It makes so much sense that Talon thinks she should leave so that Shasta can marry and produce a legitimate heir - Talon's never felt she's good enough for her princess and as much as you want to knock some sense in to her annoyingly self sacrificing self, it does make sense.
I liked both the romance and personal journeys as much as the external plot of the Goddess (spirit) in constant war with her brother (flesh). Ok I was getting flashes of Star Wars - Kade's warrior-nun does feel a bit Jedi as do her powers seem like manipulation of the Force but I didn't mind that too much.
I also ought to mention the writing which is pretty solid. I've read a lot of lesbian romance with over use of christian names to avoid her/her pronoun confusion, lack of description and just really flat prose with way too much dialogue. I felt the balance on this was spot on. Good pace, right level of description and nice use of flashbacks to flesh out our heroine's pasts.
I really hope we get a volume 3 soon because I'd love to visit the world of Ithyria again - This series manages a half decent fantasy plot with emotionally satisfying f/f romance - definitely top end of the genre.
October 27, 2018
someone took merry shannon aside and told her to stop using the word "swarthy," which i appreciate, but to replace it she started calling the people from the enemy country "barbarians" and, frequently, "animals"
this book also features a priestess meeting her goddess and going into raptures about how beautiful she is, how she is the template of Woman, how straight her nose is
could we, potentially, not.
this book also features a priestess meeting her goddess and going into raptures about how beautiful she is, how she is the template of Woman, how straight her nose is
could we, potentially, not.
October 9, 2019
Another good book!!
I waited for this book for a long time. Merry Shannon your first book SOTG was fantastic. This book is awesome as well, not only did we get to see another beautiful love blossom but we got see glimpses of Shasta and Talon (which are my favorite of course). Continue writing about this world you have created there such lovely books it makes my heart happy (just don’t wait to long to bring this would back).
I waited for this book for a long time. Merry Shannon your first book SOTG was fantastic. This book is awesome as well, not only did we get to see another beautiful love blossom but we got see glimpses of Shasta and Talon (which are my favorite of course). Continue writing about this world you have created there such lovely books it makes my heart happy (just don’t wait to long to bring this would back).
October 11, 2017
I enjoyed the first book in this series Sword of the Guardian but I’m afraid I really didn’t like this story. My problems start with the over long descriptions of nearly everything, but my biggest problem was the continuous self-sacrifice angst, which was not only nauseating, but became really tedious.
December 27, 2023
Good improvement from the first. Good enough that I will read the next. If you like general fantasy, you'll probably like this. Please note that there are lesbians, so if that makes you uncomfortable, you should definitely read these books.
February 5, 2018
I can't remember much except that I didn't like the characters a ton.
November 15, 2018
Eh, I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first one. The angsting was too long and tedious for my tastes, and the weird spiritual sex between the priestess and her goddess was a bit TOO MUCH for me
May 3, 2015
3.5 heart review by Roberta
I have been lucky enough to be able to read some of the f/f books coming out on our website and I was intrigued by this story. A young priestess and her childhood best friend and sweetheart, are put on a path that will either bring them together or finally pull them apart.
Kadrian “Kade” is this shy young woman who has always felt this need to join into the service of the Goddess Ithyris. Yet, even feeling the urge to join the service, Kade has the best friend that means so much to her. Kade has always been the one who likes to be invisible. To be able to live her life in the way of the other priestess’ and find some sort of fulfillment. When she’s tapped to be the first shaa’din in a millennium, she’s confused and so very scared. However, what Kade doesn’t know is that she’s been chosen for this position for such a noble reason. Kade will have to face some things ie Erinda and her own feelings of self-worth, finding out that she’s stronger than she’s ever thought before.
Erinda was born to serve the royal family and has been a good friend to the Queen for years. Erinda knows that she’s gay, however, that’s not the term used, and she’s absolutely fine with who she is. She’s has had discreet relations with other women, however, the only one for her is the one she can’t have, Kade. Erinda has tried to get along the rest of her life and yet, she knows that something is missing and she is feeling more and more envious and has become distracted. Erinda finds that going on a mission with the Queen’s Consort should be something to take her mind off of her feelings of despair. However, Erinda is in for a adventure in not only finding peace, but finding her own strength and love.
Now, there were a few intimate scenes in this book and I will say that they were tastefully done. You felt the characters finally being able to show and share their love for each other. It was rather sweet to watch them grow as a couple.
The secondary characters in this book were really great. I loved Myka!! She was such a wonderful character. She is strong, resourceful and so very brave. I liked that she had her own mind and yet, she was helpful to Kade. She was such a headstrong character and I think that is exactly what Kade needed in a sidekick. Talon and Shasta, the Queen’s Consort and the Queen, respectively were really great characters as they had their own issues and yet, their love and affection for Erinda was felt. Mardyth….WOW, she was a great character. I liked that she wasn’t a weak, sniveling woman. She was very much into being strong and quite frankly….she wants to be top dog and will do anything to get it. I liked that her character was true to herself and that never wavered. Ithyris…The Goddess. I liked that she didn’t hand out information before it was needed. I liked that even a Goddess can learn and remember what it is to love and to be without it for so long, how much she missed it.
I will say that one thing annoyed me throughout this book was Kade’s indecision. Her constant whiny, back and forth…that just drove me crazy. I get why she did it, it just made me angry that it was constant throughout the entire book.
I will say that it was a well written story that had action, adventure, romance, hope and love. It was such a sweet story that I got lost into it and couldn’t wait to see how it ended.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
I have been lucky enough to be able to read some of the f/f books coming out on our website and I was intrigued by this story. A young priestess and her childhood best friend and sweetheart, are put on a path that will either bring them together or finally pull them apart.
Kadrian “Kade” is this shy young woman who has always felt this need to join into the service of the Goddess Ithyris. Yet, even feeling the urge to join the service, Kade has the best friend that means so much to her. Kade has always been the one who likes to be invisible. To be able to live her life in the way of the other priestess’ and find some sort of fulfillment. When she’s tapped to be the first shaa’din in a millennium, she’s confused and so very scared. However, what Kade doesn’t know is that she’s been chosen for this position for such a noble reason. Kade will have to face some things ie Erinda and her own feelings of self-worth, finding out that she’s stronger than she’s ever thought before.
Erinda was born to serve the royal family and has been a good friend to the Queen for years. Erinda knows that she’s gay, however, that’s not the term used, and she’s absolutely fine with who she is. She’s has had discreet relations with other women, however, the only one for her is the one she can’t have, Kade. Erinda has tried to get along the rest of her life and yet, she knows that something is missing and she is feeling more and more envious and has become distracted. Erinda finds that going on a mission with the Queen’s Consort should be something to take her mind off of her feelings of despair. However, Erinda is in for a adventure in not only finding peace, but finding her own strength and love.
Now, there were a few intimate scenes in this book and I will say that they were tastefully done. You felt the characters finally being able to show and share their love for each other. It was rather sweet to watch them grow as a couple.
The secondary characters in this book were really great. I loved Myka!! She was such a wonderful character. She is strong, resourceful and so very brave. I liked that she had her own mind and yet, she was helpful to Kade. She was such a headstrong character and I think that is exactly what Kade needed in a sidekick. Talon and Shasta, the Queen’s Consort and the Queen, respectively were really great characters as they had their own issues and yet, their love and affection for Erinda was felt. Mardyth….WOW, she was a great character. I liked that she wasn’t a weak, sniveling woman. She was very much into being strong and quite frankly….she wants to be top dog and will do anything to get it. I liked that her character was true to herself and that never wavered. Ithyris…The Goddess. I liked that she didn’t hand out information before it was needed. I liked that even a Goddess can learn and remember what it is to love and to be without it for so long, how much she missed it.
I will say that one thing annoyed me throughout this book was Kade’s indecision. Her constant whiny, back and forth…that just drove me crazy. I get why she did it, it just made me angry that it was constant throughout the entire book.
I will say that it was a well written story that had action, adventure, romance, hope and love. It was such a sweet story that I got lost into it and couldn’t wait to see how it ended.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
July 28, 2016
Prayer of the Handmaiden by Merry Shannon is actually the second book in a fantasy series, but since it’s about a completely different pair of women than the first one, just set in the same universe, you can start there like I did and not be the slightest bit confused. As someone who doesn’t like the pressure of having to read a dozen books at a time just to get a full story, and who writes her own series such that each book can be read independently of the others and out of order, I was grateful for that. I also found the world-building really easy to follow and approachable, which is not always a given in an epic high fantasy novel, and I appreciate that, too.
The plot can be summed up as “goddess-worshipping nation defending itself against Bad Guys.” A priestess is called into service to lead the fight in a miraculous way, and she and the woman she loved before she took orders are thrown together again in the process. What I loved the most about this book was the repeated, detailed descriptions of the pleasures of divine communion; I often try to feminize all the “God” words in temple and my favorite part of Shabbat services is Lecha dodi or the welcoming of Shabbat as if She were divine, and so this book plugged right into my extremely “prayer as a positive”, goddess-worshippy theology.
I consider the recitation of reassurance “no dead lesbians, no lesbians sleeping with men, yes happy ending” to not be a spoiler but instead a stamp of approval beyond which many of us won’t venture further, but in a fantasy novel with a couple of violent battle scenes like this one I hope that stamp doesn’t give too much away.
Also, an added note that anyone who read my books and wished Shulamit and Rivka were the f/f couple instead of being platonic friends will probably enjoy a side couple in this book, who I understand were the main couple in the original work in the series (Sword of the Guardian.)
Shannon has also created a very memorable villain in a warrior woman literally visibly pregnant with, well, basically the anti-Christ, but this is not a Christian universe. I’m not going to be able to get that image out of my head all day :)
I don’t entirely know if “pagan inspie lit” or “goddess worship inspie” is a genre, but this would be a good candidate for it. Love is a divine gift, and theology that actively contradicts that, insults that divinity. If you believe the same, or you’ve been yearning to find a philosophy that feels that way instead of trying to guilt you for love or harmless physical desires, this book may be like a nice warm bubble bath. (Except for the bloody battle scenes!)
Commendation to the author for the unique twists and revelations at the plot’s climax (love the holiday of “the fifth day of the fifth month” and the way it started!)
The plot can be summed up as “goddess-worshipping nation defending itself against Bad Guys.” A priestess is called into service to lead the fight in a miraculous way, and she and the woman she loved before she took orders are thrown together again in the process. What I loved the most about this book was the repeated, detailed descriptions of the pleasures of divine communion; I often try to feminize all the “God” words in temple and my favorite part of Shabbat services is Lecha dodi or the welcoming of Shabbat as if She were divine, and so this book plugged right into my extremely “prayer as a positive”, goddess-worshippy theology.
I consider the recitation of reassurance “no dead lesbians, no lesbians sleeping with men, yes happy ending” to not be a spoiler but instead a stamp of approval beyond which many of us won’t venture further, but in a fantasy novel with a couple of violent battle scenes like this one I hope that stamp doesn’t give too much away.
Also, an added note that anyone who read my books and wished Shulamit and Rivka were the f/f couple instead of being platonic friends will probably enjoy a side couple in this book, who I understand were the main couple in the original work in the series (Sword of the Guardian.)
Shannon has also created a very memorable villain in a warrior woman literally visibly pregnant with, well, basically the anti-Christ, but this is not a Christian universe. I’m not going to be able to get that image out of my head all day :)
I don’t entirely know if “pagan inspie lit” or “goddess worship inspie” is a genre, but this would be a good candidate for it. Love is a divine gift, and theology that actively contradicts that, insults that divinity. If you believe the same, or you’ve been yearning to find a philosophy that feels that way instead of trying to guilt you for love or harmless physical desires, this book may be like a nice warm bubble bath. (Except for the bloody battle scenes!)
Commendation to the author for the unique twists and revelations at the plot’s climax (love the holiday of “the fifth day of the fifth month” and the way it started!)
March 6, 2020
Kade's quest as the Goddess's Handmaiden was interesting enough. And a goddess who
But the romance part, especially in the first half, was too melodramatic for my taste. The first book also had such a tendency, sure, but it seemed to be strengthened in this book.
And I don't like
Also, the last part was too convenient. But I expected it for it was like that in the first book as well. So, it didn't annoy me as much as it would have.
Furthermore, this book also maintained the "good people chosen by the God/ess fighting against evil barbarians" trope, which I really dislike. Maybe the author tried to lessen its damage by But I don't think she did a good job of countering the childish and outdated trope, considering how she depicted the "Handmaiden" of the evil god. This book actually seemed worse than the first book in this regard as well.
But the romance part, especially in the first half, was too melodramatic for my taste. The first book also had such a tendency, sure, but it seemed to be strengthened in this book.
And I don't like
Also, the last part was too convenient. But I expected it for it was like that in the first book as well. So, it didn't annoy me as much as it would have.
Furthermore, this book also maintained the "good people chosen by the God/ess fighting against evil barbarians" trope, which I really dislike. Maybe the author tried to lessen its damage by But I don't think she did a good job of countering the childish and outdated trope, considering how she depicted the "Handmaiden" of the evil god. This book actually seemed worse than the first book in this regard as well.
January 2, 2016
oooooookay so, it's possible that at thirteen this would've been my book of the year. moreover, if at thirteen i could produce a (quite professional) fantasy text, i would've written a story like that one - forbidden lovers! hijinks! daring rescues! resurrection by the Power Of Love! - and would've been quite pleased. but as of now, i was gritting my teeth through the most of it, because the setting is painfully Fantasy 101, and the bucketfuls of angst slopped all over it are based on literally everybody in the novel (except for one truly delightful side character) being an obtuse moron incapable of basic communication. up to the local goddess who communes with her Chosen One via metaphysical lesbian sex, yet can't get around to explaining that a) the whole celibacy thing is a misconception and b) there's nothing actually wrong with being a lesbian. ah well!
that said, i'm a firm believer in a genre requiring a certain amount of mediocre works as plentiful soil, so all is good. and i welcome the trend, in any case!
that said, i'm a firm believer in a genre requiring a certain amount of mediocre works as plentiful soil, so all is good. and i welcome the trend, in any case!
May 2, 2015
Absolutely amazing.
I loved Branded Ann and Sword of the Guardian and my love for Merry Shannon's books definitely continues in the Prayer of the Handmaiden.
I devoured the book within two days! And I would have finished it within the day if not for my need to prolong the read.
I truly hope Merry continues her writing. She is one of the few authors that make me connect to the characters so well that I could actually feel the turmoil of emotions.
Prayer of the Handmaiden is a must read for those who read Sword of the Guardian (though you don't have to read this to understand the story, it's nice to have the background).
I loved Branded Ann and Sword of the Guardian and my love for Merry Shannon's books definitely continues in the Prayer of the Handmaiden.
I devoured the book within two days! And I would have finished it within the day if not for my need to prolong the read.
I truly hope Merry continues her writing. She is one of the few authors that make me connect to the characters so well that I could actually feel the turmoil of emotions.
Prayer of the Handmaiden is a must read for those who read Sword of the Guardian (though you don't have to read this to understand the story, it's nice to have the background).
October 7, 2016
Both this book and it's predecessor made me cry so many times while reading it, both with happiness and sadness. Some of the ideas might be bordering on cheesy/cliche (a maid and a celibate priestess?) but that doesn't come across while actually reading it and it's written very well and really dragged my emotions along with it. Very night to just get totally involved with a book while it takes you along for the ride.
Sex scenes, which were well written and I don't think overdone, but if you're sex repulsed or young you might want to stay away.
I am now going to read another of her books..
Sex scenes, which were well written and I don't think overdone, but if you're sex repulsed or young you might want to stay away.
I am now going to read another of her books..
June 2, 2015
3.5, rounded up. :) I don't remember much of Sword of the Guardian, because I read it when it came out almost 10 years ago, but it was nice to be in that world again. I was occasionally irritated by the characters' choices and reactions to things, but overall really enjoyed the journey. Looking forward to more stories set in Ithyria!
March 18, 2015
Nice follow up to Sword of the Guardian, hope to read more of the battle between the Goddess Ithiris and her evil brother Ulrike.
August 10, 2015
I enjoyed the book - particularly the non-romance, angsty bits. Those were fine, too, but I really like the other parts the most.
May 11, 2015
Lesbian romance novel fun. Enjoyable read. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 25, 2022
Interesting sequel to the first book. Looking forward to where this series goes.
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