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The Empire Trilogy #3
Mistress of the Empire
The world on the other side of the rift: Kelewan, a land seething with political intrigue and deadly conspiracies. Following the opulent panoply of Daughter Of The Empire and the dazzling pageantry of Servant Of The Empire comes the resounding conclusion to the Empire trilogy.
Besieged by spies and rival houses, stalked by a secret and merciless brotherhood of assassins, the brilliant Lady Mara of the Acoma faces the most deadly challenge she has ever known. The fearsome Black Robes see Mara as the ultimate threat to their ancient power. In search of allies who will join her against them, Mara must travel beyond civilization's borders and even into the hives of the alien cho-ja. As those near and dear to her fall victim to many enemies, Mara cries out for vengeance. Drawing on all of her courage and guile she prepares to fight her greatest battle of all--for her life, her home, and the Empire itself.
Besieged by spies and rival houses, stalked by a secret and merciless brotherhood of assassins, the brilliant Lady Mara of the Acoma faces the most deadly challenge she has ever known. The fearsome Black Robes see Mara as the ultimate threat to their ancient power. In search of allies who will join her against them, Mara must travel beyond civilization's borders and even into the hives of the alien cho-ja. As those near and dear to her fall victim to many enemies, Mara cries out for vengeance. Drawing on all of her courage and guile she prepares to fight her greatest battle of all--for her life, her home, and the Empire itself.
613 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1992
532 people are currently reading
8262 people want to read
About the author
Janny Wurts
106 books1,933 followersJanny Wurts is the author of War of Light and Shadow series, and To Ride Hell's Chasm. Her eighteen published titles include a trilogy in audio, a short story collection, as well as the internationally best selling Empire trilogy, co authored with Raymond E. Feist, with works translated into fifteen languages worldwide. Her latest title in the Wars of Light and Shadow series, Destiny's Conflict, culminates more than thirty years of carefully evolved ideas. The cover images on the books, both in the US and abroad, are her own paintings, depicting her vision of characters and setting.
Through her combined talents as a writer/illustrator, Janny has immersed herself in a lifelong ambition: to create a seamless interface between words and pictures that will lead reader and viewer into the imagination. Her lavish use of language invites the mind into a crafted realm of experience, with characters and events woven into a complex tapestry, and drawn with an intensity to inspire active fuel for thought. Her research includes a range of direct experience, lending her fantasy a gritty realism, and her scenes involving magic crafted with intricate continuity. A self-taught painter, she draws directly from the imagination, creating scenes in a representational style that blurs the edges between dream and reality. She makes few preliminary sketches, but envisions her characters and the scenes that contain them, then executes the final directly from the initial pencil drawing.
The seed idea for the Wars of Light and Shadow series occurred, when, in the course of researching tactic and weapons, she viewed a documentary film on the Battle of Culloden Moor. This was the first time she had encountered that historical context of that brutal event, with the embroidery of romance stripped from it. The experience gave rise to an awakening, which became anger, that so often, our education, literature and entertainment slant history in a manner that equates winners and losers with moral right and wrong, and the prevalent attitude, that killing wars can be seen as justifiable solutions when only one side of the picture is presented.
Her series takes the stance that there are two sides to every question, and follows two characters who are half brothers. One a bard trained as a master of magecraft, and the other a born ruler with a charismatic passion for justice, have become cursed to lifelong enmity. As one sibling raises a devoted mass following, the other tries desperately to stave off defeat through solitary discipline and cleverness. The conflict sweeps across an imaginary world, dividing land and people through an intricate play of politics and the inborn prejudices of polarized factions already set at odds. Readers are led on a journey that embraces both viewpoints. The story explores the ironies of morality which often confound our own human condition - that what appears right and just, by one side, becomes reprehensible when seen from the opposite angle. What is apparently good for the many, too often causes devastating suffering to the nonconformist minority. Through the interactions between the characters themselves, the reader is left to their own discretion to interpret the moral impact of events.
Says Janny of her work, "I chose to frame this story against a backdrop of fantasy because I could handle even the most sensitive issues with the gloves off - explore the myriad angles of our troubled times with the least risk of offending anyone's personal sensibilities. The result, I can hope, is an expanding journey of the spirit that explores the grand depths, and rises to the challenge of mapping the ethereal potential of an evolving planetary consciousness... explore free thought and compassionate understanding."
Beyond writing, Janny's award winning paintings have been showcased in exhibitions of imaginative artwork, among them a commemorative exhibition for NASA's 25th Anniversary; the Art of the Cosmos at Hayden Planet
Through her combined talents as a writer/illustrator, Janny has immersed herself in a lifelong ambition: to create a seamless interface between words and pictures that will lead reader and viewer into the imagination. Her lavish use of language invites the mind into a crafted realm of experience, with characters and events woven into a complex tapestry, and drawn with an intensity to inspire active fuel for thought. Her research includes a range of direct experience, lending her fantasy a gritty realism, and her scenes involving magic crafted with intricate continuity. A self-taught painter, she draws directly from the imagination, creating scenes in a representational style that blurs the edges between dream and reality. She makes few preliminary sketches, but envisions her characters and the scenes that contain them, then executes the final directly from the initial pencil drawing.
The seed idea for the Wars of Light and Shadow series occurred, when, in the course of researching tactic and weapons, she viewed a documentary film on the Battle of Culloden Moor. This was the first time she had encountered that historical context of that brutal event, with the embroidery of romance stripped from it. The experience gave rise to an awakening, which became anger, that so often, our education, literature and entertainment slant history in a manner that equates winners and losers with moral right and wrong, and the prevalent attitude, that killing wars can be seen as justifiable solutions when only one side of the picture is presented.
Her series takes the stance that there are two sides to every question, and follows two characters who are half brothers. One a bard trained as a master of magecraft, and the other a born ruler with a charismatic passion for justice, have become cursed to lifelong enmity. As one sibling raises a devoted mass following, the other tries desperately to stave off defeat through solitary discipline and cleverness. The conflict sweeps across an imaginary world, dividing land and people through an intricate play of politics and the inborn prejudices of polarized factions already set at odds. Readers are led on a journey that embraces both viewpoints. The story explores the ironies of morality which often confound our own human condition - that what appears right and just, by one side, becomes reprehensible when seen from the opposite angle. What is apparently good for the many, too often causes devastating suffering to the nonconformist minority. Through the interactions between the characters themselves, the reader is left to their own discretion to interpret the moral impact of events.
Says Janny of her work, "I chose to frame this story against a backdrop of fantasy because I could handle even the most sensitive issues with the gloves off - explore the myriad angles of our troubled times with the least risk of offending anyone's personal sensibilities. The result, I can hope, is an expanding journey of the spirit that explores the grand depths, and rises to the challenge of mapping the ethereal potential of an evolving planetary consciousness... explore free thought and compassionate understanding."
Beyond writing, Janny's award winning paintings have been showcased in exhibitions of imaginative artwork, among them a commemorative exhibition for NASA's 25th Anniversary; the Art of the Cosmos at Hayden Planet
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 702 reviews
May 4, 2023
4.5/5 stars
This is the second series I finished this year, and it’s a thrilling and rewarding conclusion to the Riftwar: Empire trilogy.
Here we are. Mistress of the Empire is the third and final book in the Riftwar: Empire trilogy by Raymond E. Feist& Janny Wurts. The story begins three years after the events of Servant of the Empire, and it’s the most relentless start to any book in the trilogy. Seriously, the first quarter of Mistress of the Empire was a brutal and non-stop exhilarating ride. Incredibly dangerous situations visited Mara and her friends non-stop, and I was worried and hooked by the narrative. If you’ve read the series up to this final installment, then you should be familiar with the tone, themes, and writing style of the series. Honor, culture, love, family, and changes are still dominant in this concluding volume. I love how the authors built upon the previous two books. I did mention in my review of Servant of the Empire that I thought it was satisfyingly conclusive already; as it turns out, there’s still more story arc to close, and it all felt so organic.
It’s bittersweet to be saying goodbye to these characters. Since the first book, Mara has become one of my favorite heroines in fantasy, and this notion gets stronger and stronger with each book. The authors have done such a terrific job in giving the protagonists and antagonists personalities and motivations that add up to the tension-packed politics and narrative. In Mistress of the Empire, beside Mara, we get to dive deeper into the characterizations of Hokanu, Lujan, and Arakasi. This novel can also be surmised as their books, not just Mara, and the development of these characters was all superbly done. A lot of emotional—mostly sorrowful—events occurred in this book as the dangerous cultures of Tsuranni continues. Servant of the Empire has established that things need to change, but it’s not easy to change hundreds of years of traditions even if they’re dangerous. Sacrifices and hard decisions are necessary, and I’ll leave you to find out for yourself.
Admittedly, though still an incredible read, Mistress of the Empire is—by a small margin—my least favorite of the trilogy. Unlike the previous two books where I was immersed cover to cover, I did struggle a bit in the middle section—the parts of Thuril, specifically—of the novel. Mistress of the Empire is a different sort of book in comparison to the previous two books. Both Daughter of the Empire and Servant of the Empire revolved around the bloody Game of Council; it was engaging and constantly interesting to see Mara and her friends trying their best to outwit their opponents. This is still true to a certain extent here. However, Mistress of the Empire has a larger focus on the Great Ones, cho-ja, and powerful magic usage so much more than before. And for this specific trilogy, I prefer the low scale of magic exhibited in the previous two books. Overall, though, these are minor issues on the grander scheme of the novel and trilogy. Their inclusion did bring a stunning climax sequence and satisfying ending, after all.
Picture: Mistress of the Empire by Miguel Coimbra
With Mistress of the Empire, what I’ve repeatedly said in my previous two reviews can now be fully confirmed, Riftwar: Empire trilogy has become one of my favorite series. Although I loved this trilogy so much, this is also where I’ll say goodbye to Riftwar Cycle. I’m not too much of a fan of Riftwar Saga. I will, however, be reading through Janny Wurts’s bibliography further, starting with To Ride to Hell’s Chasm next before diving into her magnum opus: Wars of Light and Shadow. I couldn’t even finish Riftwar Saga, but her involvement in Riftwar: Empire trilogy gave the series and world a quality that’s too good to ignore. Regardless of whether you’ve read The Magician by Raymond E. Feist or not, I highly recommend this spin-off trilogy.
Series review:
Daughter of the Empire: 5 stars
Servant of the Empire: 5 stars
Mistress of the Empire: 4.5/5 stars
Riftwar Empire: 14.5/15 stars
You can order the book from: Blackwells (Free International shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Andrew, Annabeth, Ben, Blaise, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Element, Ellen, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Jennifer, Joie, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Meryl, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Shaad, Xero, Wendy, Wick, Zoe.
This is the second series I finished this year, and it’s a thrilling and rewarding conclusion to the Riftwar: Empire trilogy.
“Love doesn’t demand; it accepts. It has taken me my life to learn this.”
Here we are. Mistress of the Empire is the third and final book in the Riftwar: Empire trilogy by Raymond E. Feist& Janny Wurts. The story begins three years after the events of Servant of the Empire, and it’s the most relentless start to any book in the trilogy. Seriously, the first quarter of Mistress of the Empire was a brutal and non-stop exhilarating ride. Incredibly dangerous situations visited Mara and her friends non-stop, and I was worried and hooked by the narrative. If you’ve read the series up to this final installment, then you should be familiar with the tone, themes, and writing style of the series. Honor, culture, love, family, and changes are still dominant in this concluding volume. I love how the authors built upon the previous two books. I did mention in my review of Servant of the Empire that I thought it was satisfyingly conclusive already; as it turns out, there’s still more story arc to close, and it all felt so organic.
“Honor was only a glorified word for emptiness, and no sane replacement for the promise of continued life.”
It’s bittersweet to be saying goodbye to these characters. Since the first book, Mara has become one of my favorite heroines in fantasy, and this notion gets stronger and stronger with each book. The authors have done such a terrific job in giving the protagonists and antagonists personalities and motivations that add up to the tension-packed politics and narrative. In Mistress of the Empire, beside Mara, we get to dive deeper into the characterizations of Hokanu, Lujan, and Arakasi. This novel can also be surmised as their books, not just Mara, and the development of these characters was all superbly done. A lot of emotional—mostly sorrowful—events occurred in this book as the dangerous cultures of Tsuranni continues. Servant of the Empire has established that things need to change, but it’s not easy to change hundreds of years of traditions even if they’re dangerous. Sacrifices and hard decisions are necessary, and I’ll leave you to find out for yourself.
“True honor does not condone murder. True power must equally shield the weak that we, for centuries, have thoughtlessly trampled under our feet.”
Admittedly, though still an incredible read, Mistress of the Empire is—by a small margin—my least favorite of the trilogy. Unlike the previous two books where I was immersed cover to cover, I did struggle a bit in the middle section—the parts of Thuril, specifically—of the novel. Mistress of the Empire is a different sort of book in comparison to the previous two books. Both Daughter of the Empire and Servant of the Empire revolved around the bloody Game of Council; it was engaging and constantly interesting to see Mara and her friends trying their best to outwit their opponents. This is still true to a certain extent here. However, Mistress of the Empire has a larger focus on the Great Ones, cho-ja, and powerful magic usage so much more than before. And for this specific trilogy, I prefer the low scale of magic exhibited in the previous two books. Overall, though, these are minor issues on the grander scheme of the novel and trilogy. Their inclusion did bring a stunning climax sequence and satisfying ending, after all.
Picture: Mistress of the Empire by Miguel Coimbra
With Mistress of the Empire, what I’ve repeatedly said in my previous two reviews can now be fully confirmed, Riftwar: Empire trilogy has become one of my favorite series. Although I loved this trilogy so much, this is also where I’ll say goodbye to Riftwar Cycle. I’m not too much of a fan of Riftwar Saga. I will, however, be reading through Janny Wurts’s bibliography further, starting with To Ride to Hell’s Chasm next before diving into her magnum opus: Wars of Light and Shadow. I couldn’t even finish Riftwar Saga, but her involvement in Riftwar: Empire trilogy gave the series and world a quality that’s too good to ignore. Regardless of whether you’ve read The Magician by Raymond E. Feist or not, I highly recommend this spin-off trilogy.
“You have taught me the true meaning of a warrior’s creed. Any man can die fighting enemies. But the real test of honor for a man is to live and learn to love himself.”
Series review:
Daughter of the Empire: 5 stars
Servant of the Empire: 5 stars
Mistress of the Empire: 4.5/5 stars
Riftwar Empire: 14.5/15 stars
You can order the book from: Blackwells (Free International shipping)
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions | I also have a Booktube channel
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Andrew, Annabeth, Ben, Blaise, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Element, Ellen, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Jennifer, Joie, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Meryl, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Samuel, Sarah, Sarah, Shaad, Xero, Wendy, Wick, Zoe.
April 19, 2018
*** 4.75 ***
Yes, there were parts that were a bit slow, there was too much sorrow at other times, and the political machinations were the most prevalent part of the trilogy, but as a whole, this is one of the best three books strung together I have ever read!!!! Loved every moment of it, even when it got preachy at the end and despite the tears and heartache it made me live through. It had some very cruel moments, but all of them were essential to the plot and none of the violence was ever gratuitous. The writing was impeccable, beyond good, and the story was so gripping, that once you start you just can't put the book away! What an amazing, emotional and exciting ride this was! All who have not read it yet, what are you waiting for???? Go get it and make sure you read it in order.
"...“He likes to humble our foes by making them seem ridiculous. As he said to me the other day, ‘Kill a man, and you cede him honor in the eyes of the gods. Laugh at him and you shame him'.”..."
A more complete review might be forthcoming once I get rid of the book hangover...
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always find what you need in the pages of a Great Book!!!
Yes, there were parts that were a bit slow, there was too much sorrow at other times, and the political machinations were the most prevalent part of the trilogy, but as a whole, this is one of the best three books strung together I have ever read!!!! Loved every moment of it, even when it got preachy at the end and despite the tears and heartache it made me live through. It had some very cruel moments, but all of them were essential to the plot and none of the violence was ever gratuitous. The writing was impeccable, beyond good, and the story was so gripping, that once you start you just can't put the book away! What an amazing, emotional and exciting ride this was! All who have not read it yet, what are you waiting for???? Go get it and make sure you read it in order.
"...“He likes to humble our foes by making them seem ridiculous. As he said to me the other day, ‘Kill a man, and you cede him honor in the eyes of the gods. Laugh at him and you shame him'.”..."
A more complete review might be forthcoming once I get rid of the book hangover...
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always find what you need in the pages of a Great Book!!!
April 30, 2018
5 stars. This is classic epic fantasy by a pair of masters of the genre.
I could waste your time by recapping the plot* - so, instead I'll focus on the standouts that make this story an easy 5 stars.
[1] This story is written to evoke emotions - you will feel a lot while reading this book, you will feel along with the characters, grief and sadness, joy and triumph, fear and courage, and a sense of wholeness as all threads are brought to their natural ends.
[2] World building: Is Tolkienesque in scope and quality. The society of the empire is rich in detail and meshes well with the story. It was completely believable and easily transports the reader to the world of Kelewan and it's exotic, but familiar people.
[3] Alien species: The Cho-Ja would do just as well in a science fiction novel as an epic fantasy. They are far from "creature feature," props and help drive the narrative to its powerful conclusion.
[4] Rich characterization: Mara especially is a complex character, at one and the same time, a figure of utmost goodness in a desperate world, and a Machiavellian player of great skill. She is not alone, lots of other characters are drawn with superb nuance and are a joy to engage with.
This book, and the series as a whole are very special books and dear to my heart. This is probably the 4th time I've read them and I enjoy them each time.
(oh yeah...) * What's the plot? Read it and enjoy finding out for yourself as much as I did.
I could waste your time by recapping the plot* - so, instead I'll focus on the standouts that make this story an easy 5 stars.
[1] This story is written to evoke emotions - you will feel a lot while reading this book, you will feel along with the characters, grief and sadness, joy and triumph, fear and courage, and a sense of wholeness as all threads are brought to their natural ends.
[2] World building: Is Tolkienesque in scope and quality. The society of the empire is rich in detail and meshes well with the story. It was completely believable and easily transports the reader to the world of Kelewan and it's exotic, but familiar people.
[3] Alien species: The Cho-Ja would do just as well in a science fiction novel as an epic fantasy. They are far from "creature feature," props and help drive the narrative to its powerful conclusion.
[4] Rich characterization: Mara especially is a complex character, at one and the same time, a figure of utmost goodness in a desperate world, and a Machiavellian player of great skill. She is not alone, lots of other characters are drawn with superb nuance and are a joy to engage with.
This book, and the series as a whole are very special books and dear to my heart. This is probably the 4th time I've read them and I enjoy them each time.
(oh yeah...) * What's the plot? Read it and enjoy finding out for yourself as much as I did.
April 8, 2019
”Now we must all play, or die.”
This party started with a big bang but ended with fake vanilla.
And dragged in between.
Mistress of the Empire is the third, and the final volume of the Empire trilogy. We have seen the slow rise of Mara who from a redundant scion of the Acoma family, transformed into one of the most powerful forces to be reckoned with. It would seem that all the challenges have been met, all the threats neutralised, and that the Authors will have a hard time surprising us into excitement again.
Good news is that they managed that just fine. With one masterful stroke Mara’s world is falling apart and she herself is unravelling like a fabric washed just one time too many. I did enjoy that; in fact, watching her drive her own house to the brink of destruction and jeopardising everything she has worked for so hard was… well, it was fun (no, I assure you I don’t torment kittens when bored).
One can get an impression that all three volumes talk about the same: Basically, a girl must find a way to save her life, while everyone around is plotting and scheming against her. And although in fact each of these stories follows a similar pattern, it must be noted that there are huge differences between them concerning, especially, the complexity of the intrigue and the way of increasing tension.
The first book was great, the second good with a moderately authentic and polished ending. The third instalment is markedly uneven; on the one hand, the pacing is so slow that I have seen tectonic plates moving faster, on the other hand, it is luscious, sometimes up to exaggeration of detail. There were whole sections and subplots that bored and tired me. In the end, I found myself in the classic approach-avoidance conflict: whereas I wanted to finish the story, simultaneously, too many things were pushing me away.
Mistress of the Empire is definitely more mature than its predecessors. This is possible, mainly due to the fact that the heroine is no longer an adolescent. But also, the world building is much more layered, the protagonists more nuanced, and the plot is also much more complicated, with numerous subplots developing in different POVs.
If you liked members of the Mara household, you should be thrilled to have them finally speaking in their own voices. Also new aspects of the Empire and the wider universe will flip a couple of things upside down. You would think that especially the last one was a risky gamble because it could bare all the contradictory details, but it is obvious that the whole design was perfectly thought through and meticulously planned.
Unfortunately, the third volume seems to be weaker than the previous ones. While it is great fantasy, full of surprising twists, interesting ideas, and perfect intrigues, it lacks something. Or perhaps to the contrary, it throttles the reader with overabundance. The weak point seems to be the motivation of the main heroine presented more as a divine saviour than a ruler, and the problem of pacing. The speed of events and huge leaps in time were serious drawbacks. More than once you can get lost in the chronology of events or simply lose the sync with the general timing. This, for me, signifies bad writing. Moreover, some threads were clearly redundant and, personally, I think they would lighten the read if anybody had half of Mara’s guts and eliminate them.
However, it is still a great ending to a very good trilogy and the above does not diminish the value of the book, which is simply great to read up to the very end… which is so nauseatingly sweet that I needed to take one star down.
I have not read anything by Mr Feist (yet!) but this book definitely strengthens the position of Janny Wurts at the vanguard of the best fantasy writers. I can only wish that more such heroes, such worlds and such stories are made alive on the pages of fantasy books. Anybody enjoying high, complex fantasy, strong female leads and world building based on the Eastern cultures, should mark the Empire trilogy or bump it up their “waiting to be read” list.
Also in the series:
1. Daughter of the Empire ★★★★☆
2. Servant of the Empire ★★★☆☆
This party started with a big bang but ended with fake vanilla.
And dragged in between.
Mistress of the Empire is the third, and the final volume of the Empire trilogy. We have seen the slow rise of Mara who from a redundant scion of the Acoma family, transformed into one of the most powerful forces to be reckoned with. It would seem that all the challenges have been met, all the threats neutralised, and that the Authors will have a hard time surprising us into excitement again.
Good news is that they managed that just fine. With one masterful stroke Mara’s world is falling apart and she herself is unravelling like a fabric washed just one time too many. I did enjoy that; in fact, watching her drive her own house to the brink of destruction and jeopardising everything she has worked for so hard was… well, it was fun (no, I assure you I don’t torment kittens when bored).
One can get an impression that all three volumes talk about the same: Basically, a girl must find a way to save her life, while everyone around is plotting and scheming against her. And although in fact each of these stories follows a similar pattern, it must be noted that there are huge differences between them concerning, especially, the complexity of the intrigue and the way of increasing tension.
The first book was great, the second good with a moderately authentic and polished ending. The third instalment is markedly uneven; on the one hand, the pacing is so slow that I have seen tectonic plates moving faster, on the other hand, it is luscious, sometimes up to exaggeration of detail. There were whole sections and subplots that bored and tired me. In the end, I found myself in the classic approach-avoidance conflict: whereas I wanted to finish the story, simultaneously, too many things were pushing me away.
Mistress of the Empire is definitely more mature than its predecessors. This is possible, mainly due to the fact that the heroine is no longer an adolescent. But also, the world building is much more layered, the protagonists more nuanced, and the plot is also much more complicated, with numerous subplots developing in different POVs.
If you liked members of the Mara household, you should be thrilled to have them finally speaking in their own voices. Also new aspects of the Empire and the wider universe will flip a couple of things upside down. You would think that especially the last one was a risky gamble because it could bare all the contradictory details, but it is obvious that the whole design was perfectly thought through and meticulously planned.
Unfortunately, the third volume seems to be weaker than the previous ones. While it is great fantasy, full of surprising twists, interesting ideas, and perfect intrigues, it lacks something. Or perhaps to the contrary, it throttles the reader with overabundance. The weak point seems to be the motivation of the main heroine presented more as a divine saviour than a ruler, and the problem of pacing. The speed of events and huge leaps in time were serious drawbacks. More than once you can get lost in the chronology of events or simply lose the sync with the general timing. This, for me, signifies bad writing. Moreover, some threads were clearly redundant and, personally, I think they would lighten the read if anybody had half of Mara’s guts and eliminate them.
However, it is still a great ending to a very good trilogy and the above does not diminish the value of the book, which is simply great to read up to the very end… which is so nauseatingly sweet that I needed to take one star down.
I have not read anything by Mr Feist (yet!) but this book definitely strengthens the position of Janny Wurts at the vanguard of the best fantasy writers. I can only wish that more such heroes, such worlds and such stories are made alive on the pages of fantasy books. Anybody enjoying high, complex fantasy, strong female leads and world building based on the Eastern cultures, should mark the Empire trilogy or bump it up their “waiting to be read” list.
Also in the series:
1. Daughter of the Empire ★★★★☆
2. Servant of the Empire ★★★☆☆
January 25, 2019
The third in the trilogy started out so strong that I wanted to rage, weep, and throw the book against the wall.
I really hate it when books tear me to shreds. The tragedy in the opening was a real nightmare for me and the characters in here, but more importantly, it drove a lot of the massive change to come.
We are, after all, sitting on a trilogy that completely upends the entire society. Civil War, massive change for the Cho-Ji, and even the Council who are above the law, the High Magicians, and the Emperor will have to bow before it.
Moreover, I should mention that this particular trilogy places fine emphasis on showing every single step, every important building block from a young girl just trying to save her house, to become indispensable to the Emperor, to become The Power of the whole land. It's impressive, and no doubt. This isn't some simple tale. It's all about politics, power bases, economics, spy networks, mortal enemies, revenge, deception, and total social upheaval. So yeah, it's impressive as hell.
My only complaint was for a few of the slow bits. And I wasn't all that interested in the spymaster's love life. It might have been something cool but it just didn't turn out all that great for me. *shrug* But everything else was fantastic! :)
I really hate it when books tear me to shreds. The tragedy in the opening was a real nightmare for me and the characters in here, but more importantly, it drove a lot of the massive change to come.
We are, after all, sitting on a trilogy that completely upends the entire society. Civil War, massive change for the Cho-Ji, and even the Council who are above the law, the High Magicians, and the Emperor will have to bow before it.
Moreover, I should mention that this particular trilogy places fine emphasis on showing every single step, every important building block from a young girl just trying to save her house, to become indispensable to the Emperor, to become The Power of the whole land. It's impressive, and no doubt. This isn't some simple tale. It's all about politics, power bases, economics, spy networks, mortal enemies, revenge, deception, and total social upheaval. So yeah, it's impressive as hell.
My only complaint was for a few of the slow bits. And I wasn't all that interested in the spymaster's love life. It might have been something cool but it just didn't turn out all that great for me. *shrug* But everything else was fantastic! :)
May 7, 2018
After three months, I am done with the Empire Trilogy and am looking forward to diving further into the Riftwar Cycle. If you're at all interested in Feist's work and the rest of the Riftwar Cycle, start with the Riftwar Saga Trilogy before you read the Empire Trilogy. It'll provide background info, I was lacking while reading it. It's not absolutely necessary but it'll add depth to the world.
I would hate to spoil anyone on this lovely trilogy, which is why I'll keep the plot info to a minimum.
The trilogy is set in a world inspired by Asia. There's not a lot of magic, instead it's all about intrigue and politics.
Mara is possibly the best female fantasy character I've encountered so far. She kicks ass, is intelligent, cunning and the entire tale is one big chess game filled with politics and betrayal. Mara does not use strength and violence to win this game but her wit.
The entire cast of characters is well developed. The villains are intriguing and relatable.
I enjoyed every part of this trilogy, even the romance. In fact this had a romance that warmed my heart and made me happy. (Rare, I'm usually grumpy!)
Recommended to everyone who likes either Feist or Wurts, and who enjoys witty politicians betraying each other.
I would hate to spoil anyone on this lovely trilogy, which is why I'll keep the plot info to a minimum.
The trilogy is set in a world inspired by Asia. There's not a lot of magic, instead it's all about intrigue and politics.
Mara is possibly the best female fantasy character I've encountered so far. She kicks ass, is intelligent, cunning and the entire tale is one big chess game filled with politics and betrayal. Mara does not use strength and violence to win this game but her wit.
The entire cast of characters is well developed. The villains are intriguing and relatable.
I enjoyed every part of this trilogy, even the romance. In fact this had a romance that warmed my heart and made me happy. (Rare, I'm usually grumpy!)
Recommended to everyone who likes either Feist or Wurts, and who enjoys witty politicians betraying each other.
November 13, 2023
Ok, so I liked this book considerably more than the previous one, I think largely because it didn't feel like it was being shoehorned into events beyond the Rift that just 'needed' to happen to make the story in those books make sense. In fact, after a knockout first chapter, the first 20 or so chapters of this flew by and I was invested in what was Mara's new mission, though I didn't particularly like the mission itself.
But then, for me, the story hit a snag and suddenly I find myself on a quest. I don't know what it was about this section of the book--there wasn't anything wrong with what was happening per se--but I just didn't connect with this section at all, nor did I really see why it had to be as drawn out as it was. This is a problem throughout the book, in my opinion; everything is repeated, the characters belabor their feelings and the stakes as if they didn't just inform us at length about these very things in the chapter just previous.
Howevwer, once the story returned to the 'main' thrust, I thought the conclusion was absolutely tremendous. I couldn't put the book down as all the threads finally joined and we reached the conclusion and consequences of three entire books. Such fantastic stuff. I was all set to give this book 5 stars.
And then. The epilogue. Anyone reading this book for the first time, don't read the epilogue. Be sastisfied with the ending of the final chapter. I hated the epilogue. I hated it so much. I'm not sure I've ever seen story elements more rammed through like a runaway freight train than the out-of-the-blue gymnastics performed in order to force this epilogue that nobody wanted. It makes me so sad.
All in all, though, I really enjoyed this trilogy, though book 1 was an absolute favorite. I definitely recommend the series to anyone who likes political intrigue and especially for fans of the Riftwar series.
But then, for me, the story hit a snag and suddenly I find myself on a quest. I don't know what it was about this section of the book--there wasn't anything wrong with what was happening per se--but I just didn't connect with this section at all, nor did I really see why it had to be as drawn out as it was. This is a problem throughout the book, in my opinion; everything is repeated, the characters belabor their feelings and the stakes as if they didn't just inform us at length about these very things in the chapter just previous.
Howevwer, once the story returned to the 'main' thrust, I thought the conclusion was absolutely tremendous. I couldn't put the book down as all the threads finally joined and we reached the conclusion and consequences of three entire books. Such fantastic stuff. I was all set to give this book 5 stars.
And then. The epilogue. Anyone reading this book for the first time, don't read the epilogue. Be sastisfied with the ending of the final chapter. I hated the epilogue. I hated it so much. I'm not sure I've ever seen story elements more rammed through like a runaway freight train than the out-of-the-blue gymnastics performed in order to force this epilogue that nobody wanted. It makes me so sad.
All in all, though, I really enjoyed this trilogy, though book 1 was an absolute favorite. I definitely recommend the series to anyone who likes political intrigue and especially for fans of the Riftwar series.
December 12, 2010
So concludes the best trilogy ever written. When I think about this book, in many ways I think of the supporting cast. I could retitle the book "Arakasi and Lujan" as those are the two character's whose plots most resonated with me. These two characters had perhaps the most drastic arc from the first novel in the trilogy when they were little more than outlaws. In this novel they are so very much more. More than they ever could have been without the intervention of Mara.
That is her greatest gift as a character. Mara is able to inspire those around her to be great. Were Lujan and Arakasi ever normal? Probably not, but the path they were on was destined to be of little consequence to the rest of the world. Empowered by Mara they rise to heights that were unimaginable to them at birth. The fate of social reform hinges on their decisions and advice. Much more so than it does any action directly taken by Mara.
There was no doubt that Mara's meteoric rise would continue in this novel, and it does. The journey it takes has consequences to her, to those around her, and to the greater empire she represents. Those consequences are where the story lies, and the path of her rise contains twists and turns as one might expect.
The world of the Tsunami is expanded on last time in this novel. As always, Raymond Feist's talent for world building is obvious. The new lands explored are vivid, fresh, and interesting. There are callbacks to other books from his Midkimea universe that are rewarding to those who have read them.
I strongly recommend this book to everyone, but you should first read the other two in the trilogy.
That is her greatest gift as a character. Mara is able to inspire those around her to be great. Were Lujan and Arakasi ever normal? Probably not, but the path they were on was destined to be of little consequence to the rest of the world. Empowered by Mara they rise to heights that were unimaginable to them at birth. The fate of social reform hinges on their decisions and advice. Much more so than it does any action directly taken by Mara.
There was no doubt that Mara's meteoric rise would continue in this novel, and it does. The journey it takes has consequences to her, to those around her, and to the greater empire she represents. Those consequences are where the story lies, and the path of her rise contains twists and turns as one might expect.
The world of the Tsunami is expanded on last time in this novel. As always, Raymond Feist's talent for world building is obvious. The new lands explored are vivid, fresh, and interesting. There are callbacks to other books from his Midkimea universe that are rewarding to those who have read them.
I strongly recommend this book to everyone, but you should first read the other two in the trilogy.
September 24, 2018
4 Stars
The final volume of the Empire trilogy, Mistress of the Empire brings events full circle, closing out the series strongly.
The last book ended with Mara comfortable and secure, at the top of Tsurani society with her enemy house finally defeated. That comfort doesn’t last long as her house in thrown into disarray and once again she is forced to fight. The stakes are raised this time as she fights not only to save her house but her culture.
I’ll confess, at the end of the second book in the trilogy it felt like there was nowhere left to go with the story. Her rival house was defeated, and Mara finally had the security she had fought for ever since her father and brother died. I was pleasantly surprised at how the third book managed to tie together various threads that had been started in previous books, not just in terms of personal arcs but several different themes as well, such as personal freedoms and rights.
One of the strengths of this series is the characterizations. Each character is distinct, and showed noticeable development throughout the series. There was one thing nagging me about the series, and it took me until the last book to put my figure on what it is. While it was definitely accomplished, I didn’t particularly enjoy the writing style. Things sometimes felt over explained, and in general it felt a bit wordy. The last two books seemed like they could have been trimmed down without the story suffering.
Overall though, that is a fairly minor complaint. I enjoyed the series, and I think fans of the original Riftwar series will as well.
The final volume of the Empire trilogy, Mistress of the Empire brings events full circle, closing out the series strongly.
The last book ended with Mara comfortable and secure, at the top of Tsurani society with her enemy house finally defeated. That comfort doesn’t last long as her house in thrown into disarray and once again she is forced to fight. The stakes are raised this time as she fights not only to save her house but her culture.
I’ll confess, at the end of the second book in the trilogy it felt like there was nowhere left to go with the story. Her rival house was defeated, and Mara finally had the security she had fought for ever since her father and brother died. I was pleasantly surprised at how the third book managed to tie together various threads that had been started in previous books, not just in terms of personal arcs but several different themes as well, such as personal freedoms and rights.
One of the strengths of this series is the characterizations. Each character is distinct, and showed noticeable development throughout the series. There was one thing nagging me about the series, and it took me until the last book to put my figure on what it is. While it was definitely accomplished, I didn’t particularly enjoy the writing style. Things sometimes felt over explained, and in general it felt a bit wordy. The last two books seemed like they could have been trimmed down without the story suffering.
Overall though, that is a fairly minor complaint. I enjoyed the series, and I think fans of the original Riftwar series will as well.
September 20, 2025
From the opening palanquin ride to the final walk from the dais, this book mixes travel, high adventure, and political intrigue with personal tragedy and triumph. Feist and Wurts complete Mara's character arc in a series of ups and downs that can bring tears to one's eyes. The plot moves along nicely, covering 12 years in 676 pages.
Mostly returning characters, with just a sprinkling of new ones to keep it fresh. The villains are villainous. The traditionalists are desperate to hold the privileges and customs they have grown to love. The heroes are virtuous and honorable without being perfect or cloying. Everyone has faults and limitations, and the authors use these to move the book forward. Magic, while rarely deployed in this fantasy novel, is powerfully mystical.
A wonderful wrap-up to a great trilogy. 4.25/5
Mostly returning characters, with just a sprinkling of new ones to keep it fresh. The villains are villainous. The traditionalists are desperate to hold the privileges and customs they have grown to love. The heroes are virtuous and honorable without being perfect or cloying. Everyone has faults and limitations, and the authors use these to move the book forward. Magic, while rarely deployed in this fantasy novel, is powerfully mystical.
A wonderful wrap-up to a great trilogy. 4.25/5
April 1, 2024
The past three years had been good ones. For the first time since childhood, she felt safe, secure from the deadly, unending political intrigues of the Game of the Council.
Mara and Hokanu, with loyal vassals and allies, between them commanded a standing army unsurpassed in the Nations.
However, many would see the Good Servant on her way to Turakamu's halls, simply because of her breaks with tradition, and her climb to a rank unmatched by any previous Warlord.
Most of all Lord Jiro of Anasati. Over the years his youthful thirst for retribution had darkened into the abiding obsession of a dangerous, cunning rival.
Due to Mara’s elevation at the end of the last book, if the Acoma showed any sign of irresolution, the faction that had begun to form in rigid adherence to old traditions would use this as an excuse to throw the Empire into civil war.
This book is more sprawling than the first two, encapsulating many more perspectives at more frequency. Hokanu is a loyal, beloved, and dedicated consort. Akrasi faces his biggest rival, a cunning mastermind, yet. The Magicians conspire and plan behind the scenes.
The start is slow yet filled with momentous events. This allows the authors to explore grief and the harrowing void of hope, vengeance, and vulnerability whilst demonstrating the consequences that can occur in spite of, because of, this all-engulfing void.
Mara almost takes a backwards step at the start due to traumatic events, causing her household to step in. This was frustrating, yet it was a lot more realistic of a character constantly bombarded by disaster and power-hungry plays.
However, I do think this book was my least favourite.
”I have undertaken to change traditions that have shackled us into stagnation. I have seen cruelty, injustice, and the profligate waste of
worthy lives. For this have I set myself up as michwife to a rebirth, without which we as a people will die."
A phenomenal series that has convinced me I need to read more Janny Wurtz.
Bookstagram
Mara and Hokanu, with loyal vassals and allies, between them commanded a standing army unsurpassed in the Nations.
However, many would see the Good Servant on her way to Turakamu's halls, simply because of her breaks with tradition, and her climb to a rank unmatched by any previous Warlord.
Most of all Lord Jiro of Anasati. Over the years his youthful thirst for retribution had darkened into the abiding obsession of a dangerous, cunning rival.
Due to Mara’s elevation at the end of the last book, if the Acoma showed any sign of irresolution, the faction that had begun to form in rigid adherence to old traditions would use this as an excuse to throw the Empire into civil war.
This book is more sprawling than the first two, encapsulating many more perspectives at more frequency. Hokanu is a loyal, beloved, and dedicated consort. Akrasi faces his biggest rival, a cunning mastermind, yet. The Magicians conspire and plan behind the scenes.
The start is slow yet filled with momentous events. This allows the authors to explore grief and the harrowing void of hope, vengeance, and vulnerability whilst demonstrating the consequences that can occur in spite of, because of, this all-engulfing void.
Mara almost takes a backwards step at the start due to traumatic events, causing her household to step in. This was frustrating, yet it was a lot more realistic of a character constantly bombarded by disaster and power-hungry plays.
However, I do think this book was my least favourite.
”I have undertaken to change traditions that have shackled us into stagnation. I have seen cruelty, injustice, and the profligate waste of
worthy lives. For this have I set myself up as michwife to a rebirth, without which we as a people will die."
A phenomenal series that has convinced me I need to read more Janny Wurtz.
Bookstagram
September 10, 2023
A great conclusion to a great book series. So glad I finally read this series!
May 1, 2018
A great conclusion to one of the best trilogies I've ever read.
It did have a bit too much sorrow at times and a tad too much political intrigue at others but on the whole, it was an amazing read which has earned a place among my all-time-favourites.
It did have a bit too much sorrow at times and a tad too much political intrigue at others but on the whole, it was an amazing read which has earned a place among my all-time-favourites.
April 10, 2025
Stunning conclusion.
The biggest positive thing I can say about this spin-off series is that I don't really want to go back and read more books in the main storyline. I just want more of this.
The biggest positive thing I can say about this spin-off series is that I don't really want to go back and read more books in the main storyline. I just want more of this.
October 11, 2019
Mistress of the Empire is the final book in The Empire Trilogy. As I’ve mentioned before, I first read this about 20 years ago. I remembered very little of it, particularly from the later books, just that I had really loved it at the time. My reaction was similar this time around. It was a great read.
I had a bit of a rough start with this book, and struggled a little through the first 100 pages or so. Mara took some actions early on that I didn’t like. I don’t think her actions were unrealistic given the circumstances and her personality, but I found them frustrating to read about and I missed her more calculated choices from the earlier books. Once that started to turn back around, my interest was caught again. I thought the book grew steadily more exciting as it approached the end.
This was a satisfying conclusion to the story, and I really enjoyed how everything worked out politically. I thought the last little bit at the very end was a bit too convenient, but I didn’t necessarily dislike it, I was just a little apathetic about it. I loved seeing the progression of Mara’s character as she re-examined her culture and her own decisions throughout the story, although there was one decision I wished she had thought back upon with regret at least once. I enjoyed all the political intrigue, and the occasional battle scenes were also written well and fun to read. It’s not an uproariously funny series, but there are nice bits of humor sprinkled throughout that made me laugh. There are several great characters, some poignant moments, and difficult choices that I thought added depth to the story. I’m rating this at 4.5 stars, but rounding down to 4 on Goodreads, mostly due to my difficulties at the beginning.
I want to elaborate on my above comment about the decision Mara should have thought back upon with regret. I’ll have to put that in spoiler tags:
I had a bit of a rough start with this book, and struggled a little through the first 100 pages or so. Mara took some actions early on that I didn’t like. I don’t think her actions were unrealistic given the circumstances and her personality, but I found them frustrating to read about and I missed her more calculated choices from the earlier books. Once that started to turn back around, my interest was caught again. I thought the book grew steadily more exciting as it approached the end.
This was a satisfying conclusion to the story, and I really enjoyed how everything worked out politically. I thought the last little bit at the very end was a bit too convenient, but I didn’t necessarily dislike it, I was just a little apathetic about it. I loved seeing the progression of Mara’s character as she re-examined her culture and her own decisions throughout the story, although there was one decision I wished she had thought back upon with regret at least once. I enjoyed all the political intrigue, and the occasional battle scenes were also written well and fun to read. It’s not an uproariously funny series, but there are nice bits of humor sprinkled throughout that made me laugh. There are several great characters, some poignant moments, and difficult choices that I thought added depth to the story. I’m rating this at 4.5 stars, but rounding down to 4 on Goodreads, mostly due to my difficulties at the beginning.
I want to elaborate on my above comment about the decision Mara should have thought back upon with regret. I’ll have to put that in spoiler tags:
May 29, 2024
Really difficult to rate this one. It had larger swaths of less interesting parts, and had a bit too much reliance on the other side of the Rift for me. There's a portion of the ending I really don't like, and I think the political machinations were less interesting here.
However, the character stuff in this one is just fantastic, and that is ultimately what I admire most about this series. The way cultural traditions influence the way every character views a conflict, and how they navigate those conflicts and change as Mara introduces more and more change, is really fascinating. Most of my favorite moments in this book (or trilogy, really) are just people talking about they feel about something, and someone else having problems with that view, but it challenging them to consider different ways of living.
9/10, probably my least favorite overall but with some of the better character work.
However, the character stuff in this one is just fantastic, and that is ultimately what I admire most about this series. The way cultural traditions influence the way every character views a conflict, and how they navigate those conflicts and change as Mara introduces more and more change, is really fascinating. Most of my favorite moments in this book (or trilogy, really) are just people talking about they feel about something, and someone else having problems with that view, but it challenging them to consider different ways of living.
9/10, probably my least favorite overall but with some of the better character work.
December 7, 2020
The final book in the Feist/Wurts collaboration, and it ended in grand style.
I will admit that I was a little begrudged on how "wordy" things became mid-book-but after that finale, I get it now. There was just so much to cover so many lives to tie together.
From about chapter 22 on, I did not want to put it down. Once again Feist comes through with battle scenes that take you right there-omg, the action on the road to the Holy City-guilty of a few tears at the section.
..and the final chapters with Mara/Hokanu/Kevin-again, not ashamed to admit I cried. When a fantasy writer can put me in the action and pull such feelings of sadness from me, well, they have done their job. A 5 star read for me.
I will admit that I was a little begrudged on how "wordy" things became mid-book-but after that finale, I get it now. There was just so much to cover so many lives to tie together.
From about chapter 22 on, I did not want to put it down. Once again Feist comes through with battle scenes that take you right there-omg, the action on the road to the Holy City-guilty of a few tears at the section.
..and the final chapters with Mara/Hokanu/Kevin-again, not ashamed to admit I cried. When a fantasy writer can put me in the action and pull such feelings of sadness from me, well, they have done their job. A 5 star read for me.
August 19, 2024
Masterfully written to be sure. Beautiful writing and utterly frustrating. The plot and story of this book was thin tenuous and forced. This finally entry rushes plot points kills characters off screen for sake of plot and ignores its own rules to do whatever it wants. I loved these characters and didn’t hate the book but this felt very very very forced.
January 15, 2022
Chapter 1: Starts off in a good direction by killing of Mara's annoying son Ayaki in the first chapter. Perhaps Feist and Wurts recognized how much that character sucked.
Chapter 2: How many times has chess been used as a metaphor for either war (obvious given the names of the pieces) or political maneuverings. I'm kind of tired of this element that is so common in Fantasy (and non-genre) novels.
Chapter 4: So Mara precipitously assumes that Jiro is responsible so the death of Ayaki, and decides that war is the necessary response (it's more complicated than that but I can't rewrite the novel here) and thus her fundamental character seems changed by the extreme grief. I was worried. However Feist and Wurts gardually pull back her back from ruin and she becomes again what she should be, and in a way such that it does all make sense.
Chapter 7: I was irritated that she was about to have yet another son, and sticking lockstep with the patriarchal nature of the Tsurani society. What an opportunity to subvert the expectations by her having a daughter, especially if it had gone against the predictions of the midwives (who apparently all agreed?) However and made the choice much better.
Chapter 13: Arakasi's assassination of the Obajon of the Hamoi tong was awesome.
Chapter 14: I am glad that Mara's final child is a girl, and that Hokanu is forced to confront his patriarchal assumption that he would have male heir, and I do think that Mara's response to his initial rejection if his own daughter was justified, and certainly understandable, even though she precipitated the situation by earlier insisting that Hokanu relinquish his rights to having Justin be his family's heir and legacy. This puts her in an ironic position for simultaneously demanding her own boy heir for the house Acoma while chiding her own husband for wanting he same for his house. It's all wonderfully complicated and is s small tableau of what has been making this trilogy so appealing to me.
Chapter 19: This might just reflect how comfortable I am with profanity in general, but I have noticed that Fiest and Wurts do not use vulgarities except in very rare instances and even then only the mildest of the mild. Which makes Mara's "insults" to the Thuril seem laughably feeble to my ears, especially given that she (or the authors) can't even use the word penis, let along cock or dick, and thus says thing like "should he touch me, I will laugh when his manhood fails to rise." This passage in particular was fun to read out loud to my friends. I wonder whether the lack of real cussing is a function of author choice, editorial influence, marketing intention, or even other factors.
Chapter 20: I was initially having mixed feelings about how they are handling the gradual reveal of the Thuril society, but as it progresses, I like it more. It felt maybe a little blunt at first but I think it does fit with the perspective of Tsurani belief, by way of Mara's viewpoint, being changed slowly and surely by her interactions with the Thuril people. And I'm looking forward to what happens once she visits the Cho-ja.
As with the first book in the trilogy, I find Feist's collaboration with Wurts to be far better than the first arc of the The Riftwar Saga. The characters are more complex (especially the female characters), the dialog much better, and greater detail in the world building. Major characters are killed off instead of being constantly protected. I hope that further books in the saga reflect similar improvements since I feel committed at this point.
Chapter 2: How many times has chess been used as a metaphor for either war (obvious given the names of the pieces) or political maneuverings. I'm kind of tired of this element that is so common in Fantasy (and non-genre) novels.
Chapter 4: So Mara precipitously assumes that Jiro is responsible so the death of Ayaki, and decides that war is the necessary response (it's more complicated than that but I can't rewrite the novel here) and thus her fundamental character seems changed by the extreme grief. I was worried. However Feist and Wurts gardually pull back her back from ruin and she becomes again what she should be, and in a way such that it does all make sense.
Chapter 7: I was irritated that she was about to have yet another son, and sticking lockstep with the patriarchal nature of the Tsurani society. What an opportunity to subvert the expectations by her having a daughter, especially if it had gone against the predictions of the midwives (who apparently all agreed?) However and made the choice much better.
Chapter 13: Arakasi's assassination of the Obajon of the Hamoi tong was awesome.
Chapter 14: I am glad that Mara's final child is a girl, and that Hokanu is forced to confront his patriarchal assumption that he would have male heir, and I do think that Mara's response to his initial rejection if his own daughter was justified, and certainly understandable, even though she precipitated the situation by earlier insisting that Hokanu relinquish his rights to having Justin be his family's heir and legacy. This puts her in an ironic position for simultaneously demanding her own boy heir for the house Acoma while chiding her own husband for wanting he same for his house. It's all wonderfully complicated and is s small tableau of what has been making this trilogy so appealing to me.
Chapter 19: This might just reflect how comfortable I am with profanity in general, but I have noticed that Fiest and Wurts do not use vulgarities except in very rare instances and even then only the mildest of the mild. Which makes Mara's "insults" to the Thuril seem laughably feeble to my ears, especially given that she (or the authors) can't even use the word penis, let along cock or dick, and thus says thing like "should he touch me, I will laugh when his manhood fails to rise." This passage in particular was fun to read out loud to my friends. I wonder whether the lack of real cussing is a function of author choice, editorial influence, marketing intention, or even other factors.
Chapter 20: I was initially having mixed feelings about how they are handling the gradual reveal of the Thuril society, but as it progresses, I like it more. It felt maybe a little blunt at first but I think it does fit with the perspective of Tsurani belief, by way of Mara's viewpoint, being changed slowly and surely by her interactions with the Thuril people. And I'm looking forward to what happens once she visits the Cho-ja.
As with the first book in the trilogy, I find Feist's collaboration with Wurts to be far better than the first arc of the The Riftwar Saga. The characters are more complex (especially the female characters), the dialog much better, and greater detail in the world building. Major characters are killed off instead of being constantly protected. I hope that further books in the saga reflect similar improvements since I feel committed at this point.
August 13, 2018
Oh what a feeling! I haven't felt this good in a long, long while. Empire Trilogy excels where others barely manage to impress. It's more than brilliant. It's astounding. Satisfying. It's officially one of my best ever series in epic fantasy. I'm ranking it up there, in the lofty heights, in the the company of the likes of ASoIaF, Kingkiller, WoT, Malazan and SoT.
I already knew I was going to give this book a solid 5 stars from the opening few pages, such was the stunning start. At this point usually, you begin to see the plot patterns and it's possible to predict endings. Maybe it's because the series is authored by not one but two masters of the genre is why it turned out so different. If I felt that a lot happened in the two preceeding books, the events in this book came as a delightful shock. Not once did I anticipate how things turned out, certainly not the way they did. There was more focus on previously peripheral characters as the plot began to really thicken. There's a whole lot of character development and a whole lot more action, more than the two previous books combined. Fans of G.R.R Martin will be pleased by this unique take in political thrill that uses exceptional world-building and a setting-plot system that rivals even that of WoT despite it being relatively short: a trilogy.
It's one great book, with a greatly satisfying ending. The main protagonist is one that will remain in my memory forever. Look no more unto YA for great female characters. Here is a brilliant female lead unencumbered by the tropes of romance and occasionally frustrating softhearted acts of stupidity characterised by most YA and Urban Fantasy female leads. Here is a female character that can stand side by side with the likes of Tyrion Lannister, Gandalf the Grey, Matrim Cauthon and Anomander Rake in terms of sheer brilliance, wit, passion, power and brutality. Ladies and gentlemen of the epic fantasy fandom, I present to you Mara of House Acoma. I like to call her Aunty Mara, haha.
This book comes highly recommended. If Raymond and Janny can come up with this, then I encourage more top fantasy authors to do more collaborations. The prospect is absolutely mouth watering for us fans.
P.S: This is the best book I've read this year! Beats House of Chains by a mile.... And a half!
I already knew I was going to give this book a solid 5 stars from the opening few pages, such was the stunning start. At this point usually, you begin to see the plot patterns and it's possible to predict endings. Maybe it's because the series is authored by not one but two masters of the genre is why it turned out so different. If I felt that a lot happened in the two preceeding books, the events in this book came as a delightful shock. Not once did I anticipate how things turned out, certainly not the way they did. There was more focus on previously peripheral characters as the plot began to really thicken. There's a whole lot of character development and a whole lot more action, more than the two previous books combined. Fans of G.R.R Martin will be pleased by this unique take in political thrill that uses exceptional world-building and a setting-plot system that rivals even that of WoT despite it being relatively short: a trilogy.
It's one great book, with a greatly satisfying ending. The main protagonist is one that will remain in my memory forever. Look no more unto YA for great female characters. Here is a brilliant female lead unencumbered by the tropes of romance and occasionally frustrating softhearted acts of stupidity characterised by most YA and Urban Fantasy female leads. Here is a female character that can stand side by side with the likes of Tyrion Lannister, Gandalf the Grey, Matrim Cauthon and Anomander Rake in terms of sheer brilliance, wit, passion, power and brutality. Ladies and gentlemen of the epic fantasy fandom, I present to you Mara of House Acoma. I like to call her Aunty Mara, haha.
This book comes highly recommended. If Raymond and Janny can come up with this, then I encourage more top fantasy authors to do more collaborations. The prospect is absolutely mouth watering for us fans.
P.S: This is the best book I've read this year! Beats House of Chains by a mile.... And a half!
December 2, 2020
I can’t really say much without giving away events. I will say that Feist can really write the action/battle scenes well. Overall the book was great! I love the strong female lead as I have throughout the series. Toward the middle of the book there were parts that I felt were wordy. Feist quickly inserted battle scenes to move the book along. At the end, Wow! The wordy part of the book finally made sense and the authors wrapped this book up in a great way!
October 23, 2014
A fabulous finish to a great trilogy. I've read & enjoyed other books & series by both authors, but I think that together, they were even better. Thanks, Janny & Ray!
November 2, 2018
A great ending to a superb saga. With a very satisfying ending and a very thrilling storyline, a must read for anyone who enjoys reading a good story.
April 18, 2022
I would say this is a great series for fans of court intrigue, political plots and a writing style that's a bit on the melodramatic side.
November 23, 2021
Mara's story is nail biting from beginning to end. What an agent of change! There are so many characters I love and so many who make me really angry!
I can't get rid of my Empire trilogy series as I just like to reread it every 10 years or so. Now that I'm getting older it will be more frequently.
Nov 22/2021
…and it was more frequently. A three year gap. Still as enjoyable.
I can't get rid of my Empire trilogy series as I just like to reread it every 10 years or so. Now that I'm getting older it will be more frequently.
Nov 22/2021
…and it was more frequently. A three year gap. Still as enjoyable.
August 18, 2023
Fantastic! The last of a three book series based on Feist's "Riftwar" Saga. Written with Janny Wurts this last book is a roller coaster of twists and turns. Old versus new ways and the revelation of an unfair treaty that limits a species to what amounts to captivity and the suppression an arcane ability.
The intrigue is amazing!
The intrigue is amazing!
November 21, 2018
Very good, rather lengthy, but superb!
December 23, 2025
A brilliant finale.
Mistress of the Empire doesn’t just end the trilogy it proves why it’s one of the smartest political fantasies ever written.
Feist and Wurts deliver a story driven by strategy, culture, and consequence rather than swords and spectacle. Every win comes at a price, and the tension never lets up.
Mara of the Acoma remains an exceptional protagonist. Her strength isn’t brute force but intelligence, patience, and the ability to adapt. Watching her outmaneuver enemies who underestimate her and ultimately change the rules of the game is deeply satisfying.
The ending avoids easy answers and feels completely earned, both emotionally and thematically. By the final page, you understand the true cost of survival and ambition.
A sharp, confident conclusion and one of the strongest finales in fantasy.
Five stars without hesitation
Mistress of the Empire doesn’t just end the trilogy it proves why it’s one of the smartest political fantasies ever written.
Feist and Wurts deliver a story driven by strategy, culture, and consequence rather than swords and spectacle. Every win comes at a price, and the tension never lets up.
Mara of the Acoma remains an exceptional protagonist. Her strength isn’t brute force but intelligence, patience, and the ability to adapt. Watching her outmaneuver enemies who underestimate her and ultimately change the rules of the game is deeply satisfying.
The ending avoids easy answers and feels completely earned, both emotionally and thematically. By the final page, you understand the true cost of survival and ambition.
A sharp, confident conclusion and one of the strongest finales in fantasy.
Five stars without hesitation
September 29, 2025
This book solidified my certainty that I need to read Janny Wurts' solo works sooner rather than later.
The layers of political intrigue, rich characters, and remarkable worldbuilding were amazing, and being familiar with Feist's other works - especially his early ones - it's easy to see the landslide influence Wurts had on this series.
Was the book perfect? No, though I suppose no book is. There's always something to critique, something that would fit your personal taste better. But by God, does this book come close. The beginning was slow, but by the midway point, when Mara went on her journey, it picked up and never let go.
The main enemy presented in the book is dealt with when you still have a fifth or so left to read, immediately pivoting you to who the true enemy was all along.
Lastly, this book confirms what a sucker I am for feel-good chapters at the end that give readers some warm and fuzzy closure. From reunions to well-deserved promotions, the last hour of reading had it all. It's something I've yearned for in many series, from the Wheel of Time to Harry Potter, and while the Empire Trilogy doesn't quite compare in scope or size, it's still a world I spent nearly 50 hours in.
The layers of political intrigue, rich characters, and remarkable worldbuilding were amazing, and being familiar with Feist's other works - especially his early ones - it's easy to see the landslide influence Wurts had on this series.
Was the book perfect? No, though I suppose no book is. There's always something to critique, something that would fit your personal taste better. But by God, does this book come close. The beginning was slow, but by the midway point, when Mara went on her journey, it picked up and never let go.
The main enemy presented in the book is dealt with when you still have a fifth or so left to read, immediately pivoting you to who the true enemy was all along.
Lastly, this book confirms what a sucker I am for feel-good chapters at the end that give readers some warm and fuzzy closure. From reunions to well-deserved promotions, the last hour of reading had it all. It's something I've yearned for in many series, from the Wheel of Time to Harry Potter, and while the Empire Trilogy doesn't quite compare in scope or size, it's still a world I spent nearly 50 hours in.
May 3, 2015
Not many series endings have given me the experience but with the book Servant of the empire, I can say that the ending left me feeling content.All the story lines got a proper ending in this book.Also we discover lot of new things regarding cho-ja and tsuruanni in this book.
The previous books consisted of given insights into characters who are working against Mara.But this book offers insights into male counterparts who are working for Mara.The most interesting insights are the ones given by Arakasi and Lujan.
The major plots on this book are focused on
1.Mara vs Hamoi tong
2.Arakasi's insight.
3.Mara vs Jiroh
4.Mara vs Magicians
Let me give a brief regarding each of the above points
1.Mara vs Hamoi tong
As we know from the last book that the Hamoi tong have pledged a vow of revenge against Mara, and the book opens with one of their assassination attempt gone wrong.But the assassins manage to kill someone important to Mara and that leaves her devastated.
Although Hokanu starts suspecting Jiroh immediately we know that the Hamoi tong are acting on their own against Mara.As Mara is servant of the empire we have a state funeral for the fallen person, during which Mara in her state of grief attacks Jiroh and gives him opportunity to further widen the rift between the traditionalist faction and Maraist faction.
Hokanu and Mara give a call to their clan for a final fight against Jiroh, but the magicians interfere in the middle and manage to stop the war.They take a promise from both Jiroh and Mara that they will not take arms against each other.Mara finds this interference too much and gives Arakasi a mission to find out more about these magicians by penetrating their city.
Another tool which the authors have used wisely throughout the books is the time jumps they manage to jump a few years ahead time and again so that the story keeps progressing smoothly.
2.Arakasi's insight.
As years pass Mara seems to recover some what from the tragedy which struck her at the start of the book, and soon she becomes pregnant with Hokanu's child.But the threat of Hamoi tong is still there and too have been abiding their time and have manage to concoct a more sinister plot against Mara.
They approach Mara posing as traders and they poison her, meanwhile Arakasi has done many futile attempts to enter into the city of magicians.But when he hears about Mara's poisoning he rushes to her side and manages to find a cure for the poison through his network.We are given a lot of insights into Arakasi's network and workings during this part of the story.It is definitely a page turner to read how intelligence works on human basis when they don't have electronic intelligence in this world.
As Mara recovers from her poison she gives Arakasi the most difficult mission in the series which is to infiltrate Hamoi tong and kills its leader i.e Obertan.
Arakasi proceeds on this mission in a systematic way and descriptions regarding how he infiltrates their fortress and destroys them in the process was one of the best parts in this book.
3.Mara vs Jiroh
Meanwhile Jiroh has become a force to be reckoned with in the empire and has manage to unite all the traditionalist faction behind him, the traditionalist are basically a faction who want the council to be reinstated and also want the seat of warlord restored so that they can go back to their bloody days of game of council.
Mara is exceedingly frustrated with this, and with magicians ultimatum to her against Jiroh she has hands tied behind her.She is trying to find a solution to this problem, and during her one meet with the cho ja queen she finds a lot regarding the magicians.But the cho ja queen is reluctant to give her all the answers and asks her to journey to another land in order to find all the answers.
4.Mara vs Magicians
The assembly of magicians is itself divided regarding Mara as half think that she should be kept in check as she has become too powerful for their own good, while the other half support her rebellious measures regarding tsuruanni way of life.The magicians have kept a watch on her 24x7. But Mara manages to give them a slip under pretext that she has taken a shelter in a temple for self discovery.The voyage changes Mara perceptions regarding the magicians.
All in all I really loved empire trilogy and was quite surprised that wurts and feist did not collaborate further for writing such amazing books.I am definitely going to read riftwar saga by feist, and wars of light and shadow by wurts.I give this book 4/5 stars.
The previous books consisted of given insights into characters who are working against Mara.But this book offers insights into male counterparts who are working for Mara.The most interesting insights are the ones given by Arakasi and Lujan.
The major plots on this book are focused on
1.Mara vs Hamoi tong
2.Arakasi's insight.
3.Mara vs Jiroh
4.Mara vs Magicians
Let me give a brief regarding each of the above points
1.Mara vs Hamoi tong
As we know from the last book that the Hamoi tong have pledged a vow of revenge against Mara, and the book opens with one of their assassination attempt gone wrong.But the assassins manage to kill someone important to Mara and that leaves her devastated.
Although Hokanu starts suspecting Jiroh immediately we know that the Hamoi tong are acting on their own against Mara.As Mara is servant of the empire we have a state funeral for the fallen person, during which Mara in her state of grief attacks Jiroh and gives him opportunity to further widen the rift between the traditionalist faction and Maraist faction.
Hokanu and Mara give a call to their clan for a final fight against Jiroh, but the magicians interfere in the middle and manage to stop the war.They take a promise from both Jiroh and Mara that they will not take arms against each other.Mara finds this interference too much and gives Arakasi a mission to find out more about these magicians by penetrating their city.
Another tool which the authors have used wisely throughout the books is the time jumps they manage to jump a few years ahead time and again so that the story keeps progressing smoothly.
2.Arakasi's insight.
As years pass Mara seems to recover some what from the tragedy which struck her at the start of the book, and soon she becomes pregnant with Hokanu's child.But the threat of Hamoi tong is still there and too have been abiding their time and have manage to concoct a more sinister plot against Mara.
They approach Mara posing as traders and they poison her, meanwhile Arakasi has done many futile attempts to enter into the city of magicians.But when he hears about Mara's poisoning he rushes to her side and manages to find a cure for the poison through his network.We are given a lot of insights into Arakasi's network and workings during this part of the story.It is definitely a page turner to read how intelligence works on human basis when they don't have electronic intelligence in this world.
As Mara recovers from her poison she gives Arakasi the most difficult mission in the series which is to infiltrate Hamoi tong and kills its leader i.e Obertan.
Arakasi proceeds on this mission in a systematic way and descriptions regarding how he infiltrates their fortress and destroys them in the process was one of the best parts in this book.
3.Mara vs Jiroh
Meanwhile Jiroh has become a force to be reckoned with in the empire and has manage to unite all the traditionalist faction behind him, the traditionalist are basically a faction who want the council to be reinstated and also want the seat of warlord restored so that they can go back to their bloody days of game of council.
Mara is exceedingly frustrated with this, and with magicians ultimatum to her against Jiroh she has hands tied behind her.She is trying to find a solution to this problem, and during her one meet with the cho ja queen she finds a lot regarding the magicians.But the cho ja queen is reluctant to give her all the answers and asks her to journey to another land in order to find all the answers.
4.Mara vs Magicians
The assembly of magicians is itself divided regarding Mara as half think that she should be kept in check as she has become too powerful for their own good, while the other half support her rebellious measures regarding tsuruanni way of life.The magicians have kept a watch on her 24x7. But Mara manages to give them a slip under pretext that she has taken a shelter in a temple for self discovery.The voyage changes Mara perceptions regarding the magicians.
All in all I really loved empire trilogy and was quite surprised that wurts and feist did not collaborate further for writing such amazing books.I am definitely going to read riftwar saga by feist, and wars of light and shadow by wurts.I give this book 4/5 stars.
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