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Kushiel's Legacy #1.5
Cassiel's Servant
The lush epic fantasy that inspired a generation with a single “Love As Thou Wilt."
Returning to the realm of Terre d’Ange which captured an entire generation of fantasy readers, New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Carey brings us a hero’s journey for a new era.
In Kushiel’s Dart , a daring young courtesan uncovered a plot to destroy her beloved homeland. But hers is only half the tale. Now see the other half of the heart that lived it.
Cassiel’s Servant is a retelling of cult favorite Kushiel’s Dar t from the point of view of Joscelin, Cassiline warrior-priest and protector of Phèdre nó Delaunay. He’s sworn to celibacy and the blade as surely as she’s pledged to pleasure, but the gods they serve have bound them together. When both are betrayed, they must rely on each other to survive.
From his earliest training to captivity amongst their enemies, his journey with Phèdre to avert the conquest of Terre D’Ange shatters body and mind… and brings him an impossible love that he will do anything to keep.
Even if it means breaking all vows and losing his soul.
Returning to the realm of Terre d’Ange which captured an entire generation of fantasy readers, New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Carey brings us a hero’s journey for a new era.
In Kushiel’s Dart , a daring young courtesan uncovered a plot to destroy her beloved homeland. But hers is only half the tale. Now see the other half of the heart that lived it.
Cassiel’s Servant is a retelling of cult favorite Kushiel’s Dar t from the point of view of Joscelin, Cassiline warrior-priest and protector of Phèdre nó Delaunay. He’s sworn to celibacy and the blade as surely as she’s pledged to pleasure, but the gods they serve have bound them together. When both are betrayed, they must rely on each other to survive.
From his earliest training to captivity amongst their enemies, his journey with Phèdre to avert the conquest of Terre D’Ange shatters body and mind… and brings him an impossible love that he will do anything to keep.
Even if it means breaking all vows and losing his soul.
528 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 1, 2023
306 people are currently reading
9953 people want to read
About the author
Jacqueline Carey
65 books8,454 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Jacqueline Carey (born 1964 in Highland Park, Illinois) is an author and novelist, primarily of fantasy fiction.
She attended Lake Forest College, receiving B.A.'s in psychology and English literature. During college, she spent 6 months working in a bookstore as part of a work exchange program. While there, she decided to write professionally. After returning she started her writing career while working at the art center of a local college. After ten years, she discovered success with the publication of her first book in 2001.
Currently, Carey lives in western Michigan and is a member of the oldest Mardi Gras krewe in the state.
Jacqueline Carey (born 1964 in Highland Park, Illinois) is an author and novelist, primarily of fantasy fiction.
She attended Lake Forest College, receiving B.A.'s in psychology and English literature. During college, she spent 6 months working in a bookstore as part of a work exchange program. While there, she decided to write professionally. After returning she started her writing career while working at the art center of a local college. After ten years, she discovered success with the publication of her first book in 2001.
Currently, Carey lives in western Michigan and is a member of the oldest Mardi Gras krewe in the state.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 467 reviews
August 9, 2023
2.5 stars rounded up
Reading vlog: https://youtu.be/g_Nqbn06eoM
Here's the thing- this never should have been a full novel. This should have been an anthology including a novella about Joscelin's early life (the first part of this book, which adds meaningfully to the story), and a handful of vignettes offering his perspective on key scenes.
As a novel-length retelling of Kushiel's Dart, the bulk of it just isn't that interesting. The early years of Joscelin training with the Cassieline Brotherhood is genuinely interesting to the world and adds nuance to his character, and there are moments here and there through the rest of the book that were evocative. But overall I agree with this review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... which says a lot of it reads like a wikipedia type summary of the events in Kushiel's Dart through the eyes of a character who doesn't even see himself as a main player in his own life.
I'm coming to this series late and I LOVED Kushiel's Dart. Phaedra is an incredibly compelling character and I ate that book up. By contrast, the bulk of this felt like a chore to get through and I didn't really want to be in Joscelin's head for 500 pages. This lacked the magic of the original. That said, some readers who are long-time fans might really enjoy this added material. Personally, I think writing this as a full retelling was a mistake. I could have loved it as a shorter anthology that hits on key points and focusing mostly on Joscelin's early years. As it is, it was just okay with some high spots. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
Reading vlog: https://youtu.be/g_Nqbn06eoM
Here's the thing- this never should have been a full novel. This should have been an anthology including a novella about Joscelin's early life (the first part of this book, which adds meaningfully to the story), and a handful of vignettes offering his perspective on key scenes.
As a novel-length retelling of Kushiel's Dart, the bulk of it just isn't that interesting. The early years of Joscelin training with the Cassieline Brotherhood is genuinely interesting to the world and adds nuance to his character, and there are moments here and there through the rest of the book that were evocative. But overall I agree with this review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... which says a lot of it reads like a wikipedia type summary of the events in Kushiel's Dart through the eyes of a character who doesn't even see himself as a main player in his own life.
I'm coming to this series late and I LOVED Kushiel's Dart. Phaedra is an incredibly compelling character and I ate that book up. By contrast, the bulk of this felt like a chore to get through and I didn't really want to be in Joscelin's head for 500 pages. This lacked the magic of the original. That said, some readers who are long-time fans might really enjoy this added material. Personally, I think writing this as a full retelling was a mistake. I could have loved it as a shorter anthology that hits on key points and focusing mostly on Joscelin's early years. As it is, it was just okay with some high spots. I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
February 12, 2023
It's finally happening! August 2023. I can't freaking wait for this book! Phèdre and Joscelin are my OG OTP and I will always want to return to this world.
So...did this book need to happen? Not really. Am I glad that it did? Sure; see above ^. Will I buy this as soon as it's available? Absolutely.
I hope this book draws a new generations of fans to the best fantasy romance I've ever read. And I hope to the gods this means Carey has more in store for us in the land of Terre d'Ange. Shade: SJM army, read these books and weep at not only the incredible writing and fantastic, well-developed characters, but perhaps most importantly - the intricate plots THAT ACTUALLY MAKE SENSE.
So...did this book need to happen? Not really. Am I glad that it did? Sure; see above ^. Will I buy this as soon as it's available? Absolutely.
I hope this book draws a new generations of fans to the best fantasy romance I've ever read. And I hope to the gods this means Carey has more in store for us in the land of Terre d'Ange. Shade: SJM army, read these books and weep at not only the incredible writing and fantastic, well-developed characters, but perhaps most importantly - the intricate plots THAT ACTUALLY MAKE SENSE.
July 3, 2023
I will preface this review by saying that no matter how much I tempered my expectations for this novel, Kushiel’s Legacy was formative for me as a person - particularly protagonist Phèdre, who was one of the first bisexual heroines I read about who had her own agenda, agency, and didn’t exist for the male gaze. To undertake a retelling in such a beloved universe as Kushiel’s Legacy is no small feat, and I commend the attempt. However, Cassiel’s Servant really did not work for me on any level and was, unfortunately, a huge disappointment.
Getting to know more about Cassiline lore and ritual in the beginning of the novel was a welcome addition to the texture of this universe. Also, there were several scenes from Kushiel’s Dart that remained as or more poignant when told from Joscelin’s perspective, which were a delight to read. There were also adjustments to certain ableist language used previously in the series that I appreciated.
The first and most glaring issue with this retelling in my eyes is that it is STILL Phèdre’s story, even from Joscelin’s point of view. Not everyone can have main character energy, but the main character of a book should absolutely have it, and Joscelin just… does not in this novel. As a result, a large portion of the novel reads more like a Wikipedia summary of Kushiel’s Dart rather than as a unique, innovative retelling from a fresh perspective. The reader, much like Joscelin, is just sort of along for the ride - which does not make for an entertaining or engaging read.
Structurally, Joscelin and Phèdre are in close proximity for almost the entirety of Kushiel’s Dart. He is, after all, her bodyguard charged not to leave her side. What this means is that there are few opportunities to fulsomely dive into who Joscelin is and what he experiences independently of Phèdre and still adhere to the canon events of a novel written 20 years ago. Aside from the notes on his upbringing in the Cassiline Brotherhood, very little new perspective was added.
Normally, I try not to compare the works of authors to each other, but when an author writes a re-telling, they are inherently inviting conversation with and comparison to the source material. What compelled me about the initial trilogy in addition to Phèdre’s je ne sais quoi was the sex-positive, kink-positive, queernorm universe. Sexuality and eroticism are not only accepted in Terre d’Ange, they are sacred.
However, from Joscelin’s point of view, the reader loses all of that magic, only to have it replaced by a very generic, sexist dude with a sword fantasy story. And no offense, but if I wanted to read one of those, I have thousands to pick from. While I understand Joscelin grew up in a repressed, celibate environment (and that in fact is one of the draws of his romance with Phèdre for many readers), I was left confused by the complete tonal shift. He is still D’Angeline and therefore should still hold some of those values, but his external and internal monologues are full of sex-negative, judgmental, misogynistic, and possessive commentary, which undermined what little appeal I was getting from the novel.
Make no mistake: I still fully recommend the original Kushiel’s Legacy trilogy and am excited for the traction this novel and the paperback re-releases may bring to it. With the stratospheric rise in appreciation for “spicy” fantasy romance lately, a trilogy with a bisexual submissive masochist spy as a protagonist seems like it would do quite well. But I cannot in good faith recommend Cassiel’s Servant.
Thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for an advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
Getting to know more about Cassiline lore and ritual in the beginning of the novel was a welcome addition to the texture of this universe. Also, there were several scenes from Kushiel’s Dart that remained as or more poignant when told from Joscelin’s perspective, which were a delight to read. There were also adjustments to certain ableist language used previously in the series that I appreciated.
The first and most glaring issue with this retelling in my eyes is that it is STILL Phèdre’s story, even from Joscelin’s point of view. Not everyone can have main character energy, but the main character of a book should absolutely have it, and Joscelin just… does not in this novel. As a result, a large portion of the novel reads more like a Wikipedia summary of Kushiel’s Dart rather than as a unique, innovative retelling from a fresh perspective. The reader, much like Joscelin, is just sort of along for the ride - which does not make for an entertaining or engaging read.
Structurally, Joscelin and Phèdre are in close proximity for almost the entirety of Kushiel’s Dart. He is, after all, her bodyguard charged not to leave her side. What this means is that there are few opportunities to fulsomely dive into who Joscelin is and what he experiences independently of Phèdre and still adhere to the canon events of a novel written 20 years ago. Aside from the notes on his upbringing in the Cassiline Brotherhood, very little new perspective was added.
Normally, I try not to compare the works of authors to each other, but when an author writes a re-telling, they are inherently inviting conversation with and comparison to the source material. What compelled me about the initial trilogy in addition to Phèdre’s je ne sais quoi was the sex-positive, kink-positive, queernorm universe. Sexuality and eroticism are not only accepted in Terre d’Ange, they are sacred.
However, from Joscelin’s point of view, the reader loses all of that magic, only to have it replaced by a very generic, sexist dude with a sword fantasy story. And no offense, but if I wanted to read one of those, I have thousands to pick from. While I understand Joscelin grew up in a repressed, celibate environment (and that in fact is one of the draws of his romance with Phèdre for many readers), I was left confused by the complete tonal shift. He is still D’Angeline and therefore should still hold some of those values, but his external and internal monologues are full of sex-negative, judgmental, misogynistic, and possessive commentary, which undermined what little appeal I was getting from the novel.
Make no mistake: I still fully recommend the original Kushiel’s Legacy trilogy and am excited for the traction this novel and the paperback re-releases may bring to it. With the stratospheric rise in appreciation for “spicy” fantasy romance lately, a trilogy with a bisexual submissive masochist spy as a protagonist seems like it would do quite well. But I cannot in good faith recommend Cassiel’s Servant.
Thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for an advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2023
4.0 Stars
Stories retold from another perspective can be challenging to do right but I had to try out this one after loving Kushiel's Dart so much. In the original trilogy, I often found Jocelyn to be a frustrating character because he came across as judgemental of Phedre.
Thankfully this novel was the follow up I needed to win myself over to Jocelyn. I loved his backstory. His love for Phedre shines through the pages. His insecurities are so sympathetic when I finally got to read his perspective.
I wasn't over the moon about the previous two spinoff series but this is a companion novel that I would recommend to fans of the original trilogy. It felt nostalgic in a very good way.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Stories retold from another perspective can be challenging to do right but I had to try out this one after loving Kushiel's Dart so much. In the original trilogy, I often found Jocelyn to be a frustrating character because he came across as judgemental of Phedre.
Thankfully this novel was the follow up I needed to win myself over to Jocelyn. I loved his backstory. His love for Phedre shines through the pages. His insecurities are so sympathetic when I finally got to read his perspective.
I wasn't over the moon about the previous two spinoff series but this is a companion novel that I would recommend to fans of the original trilogy. It felt nostalgic in a very good way.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
February 14, 2023
As soon as I saw this eARC up on Edelweiss, I knew I was going to destroy my sleep schedule reading it late into the night. Phèdre and Joscelin are my all time absolute favorite literary couple, and Kushiel's Dart is one of the books I love best in this world. (I've read it eight or nine times... I think?) So I NEEDED to read this, and I'm absolutely going to buy a print copy as well.
That being said... Carey choosing to retell this story isn't really necessary. Phèdre's voice is so singular, and her knowledge and observational skills really make Dart the special book that it is. She's walking the world with her eyes wide open, making connections, and charting the undercurrents of the politics and people that surround her.
Joscelin is the opposite. He's disciplined and restrained, and all his struggles are internal. He is uninterested in political machinations. Almost as soon as he meets her, Phèdre is the lodestar of his existence. His world rises and sets with her - Phèdre's leading the action, and he's following at her heels, trying to protect her from the fallout of her impulsive decision making. Phèdre drives the plot, Joscelin reacts to it. For someone who DOES an awful lot within the narrative... he's basically a passenger in Phèdre's story.
(Now, this does leave Carey with depths to mine if she continues this series and decides to retell Kushiel's Chosen through Joscelin's eyes. Watching him find out how to orient himself when he doesn't have Phèdre to follow would allow Carey to tread new ground with these retellings. I almost wish that she had chosen to place this retelling during that time period, with flashbacks to Joscelin's childhood and the events of Dart, if that makes sense?But I'd still read Carey's grocery lists.)
We get a few new tidbits, but unless you're an idiot for the original story like me, I don't know that you need to read this. So even though this book was absolutely written for someone like me specifically and I did indeed read it in two big gulps, I can only give it 4 stars.
...I'm still utter trash for Phèdre and Joscelin though.
That being said... Carey choosing to retell this story isn't really necessary. Phèdre's voice is so singular, and her knowledge and observational skills really make Dart the special book that it is. She's walking the world with her eyes wide open, making connections, and charting the undercurrents of the politics and people that surround her.
Joscelin is the opposite. He's disciplined and restrained, and all his struggles are internal. He is uninterested in political machinations. Almost as soon as he meets her, Phèdre is the lodestar of his existence. His world rises and sets with her - Phèdre's leading the action, and he's following at her heels, trying to protect her from the fallout of her impulsive decision making. Phèdre drives the plot, Joscelin reacts to it. For someone who DOES an awful lot within the narrative... he's basically a passenger in Phèdre's story.
(Now, this does leave Carey with depths to mine if she continues this series and decides to retell Kushiel's Chosen through Joscelin's eyes. Watching him find out how to orient himself when he doesn't have Phèdre to follow would allow Carey to tread new ground with these retellings. I almost wish that she had chosen to place this retelling during that time period, with flashbacks to Joscelin's childhood and the events of Dart, if that makes sense?
We get a few new tidbits, but unless you're an idiot for the original story like me, I don't know that you need to read this. So even though this book was absolutely written for someone like me specifically and I did indeed read it in two big gulps, I can only give it 4 stars.
...I'm still utter trash for Phèdre and Joscelin though.
August 10, 2024
Bye, Haters!
I just reread the entire trilogy in anticipation of this! I was NOT disappointed.
Everything from the same time period with Joscelin's narrative viewpoint on anything different than Phèdre.
More background on EVERYTHING and EVERYONE and a more profound perspective! GIVE ME THIS ON THE OTHER TWO BOOKS PLEASE!
Can you enjoy the trilogy without this book? Yes, but why would you want to?
If you are a hardcore fan, you NEEEEEDED this to happen. I really would love to see the other two novels, because there are a lot of physical distance breaks that occur.
LOVELOVELOVE THIS. Thank you, Jacqueline Carey. This is why you are my fav!
5 STARS!!!
I just reread the entire trilogy in anticipation of this! I was NOT disappointed.
Everything from the same time period with Joscelin's narrative viewpoint on anything different than Phèdre.
More background on EVERYTHING and EVERYONE and a more profound perspective! GIVE ME THIS ON THE OTHER TWO BOOKS PLEASE!
Can you enjoy the trilogy without this book? Yes, but why would you want to?
If you are a hardcore fan, you NEEEEEDED this to happen. I really would love to see the other two novels, because there are a lot of physical distance breaks that occur.
LOVELOVELOVE THIS. Thank you, Jacqueline Carey. This is why you are my fav!
5 STARS!!!
November 7, 2024
Every single time I’m back in this world, it’s like coming home.
======================
pre-release musings and yearning for this book:
WE HAVE A RELEASE DATE! And a cover. And I can preorder. And it's less than a month away. The book gods have truly blessed me today.
======================
pre-release musings and yearning for this book:
WE HAVE A RELEASE DATE! And a cover. And I can preorder. And it's less than a month away. The book gods have truly blessed me today.
Want to read
October 6, 2022NOT KUSHIEL'S DART GETTING THE TWILIGHT TREATMENT!!! I'm clearing my schedule, words don't exist to describe how excited I am for this (until Jacqueline Carey writes them)
August 1, 2023
4 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2023/08/01/...
I think it’s fair to say that the Kushiel’s Legacy series has captured the imaginations of an entire generation of fantasy readers, and at least in my case, that’s no exaggeration. Growing up, I was not always into books and when I did get around to picking one up, fantasy was probably the last genre I would consider. But fast forward to now, epic fantasy is my favorite genre, I’m a voracious reader, and I credit much of that to Jacqueline Carey and a tattered dog-eared paperback of Kushiel’s Dart that I picked up for a song from a used bookstore while attending university.
Needless to say, the book blew me away. I have since read almost anything I could get my hands on by Carey, including everything set in her Kushiel universe like the Imriel and Naamah trilogies, but it’s the original novel that started it all which has and always will have a special place in my heart. So when I first heard about Cassiel’s Servant, a retelling of Kushiel’s Dart from the point of view of Joscelin Verreuil, my first reaction was an all-out unbridled lose-my-shit kind of excitement. At the time, the question of whether a book like this was even necessary did not enter my mind; I was just happy that Jacqueline Carey was returning to the world of Terre d’Ange.
For the uninitiated, the protagonist of Kushiel’s Dart was Phèdre nó Delaunay, a courtesan trained from childhood to be a spy. An “anquissette” marked by the angel Kushiel to find pleasure in pain, her special talents and proclivities make her popular among the high-ranking members of the royal court, giving her access to some of Terre d’Ange’s most valued secrets. In the process though, Phèdre stumbles upon a plot to usurp the throne, painting a target on her back. A bodyguard from the highly vaunted Cassiline Brotherhood was thus hired to protect her, which is where Joscelin comes in.
Recruited at age ten, Joscelin trained for years to be a warrior priest of Cassiel. Having made a vow of celibacy, his only loyalty is to his patron angel, his order, and his sworn charge. At first, it seemed a cruel joke when he was assigned to guard Phèdre, a servant of Naamah whose tenets are completely antithetical to those of a servant of Cassiel. However, Joscelin, obedient to a fault, will do his duty. But when the conspiracy against the queen sends him and Phèdre on the run through the frozen wilds of Skaldia, the two of them only have each other to rely upon for survival. Against all odds, they fall in love, leading Joscelin to struggle emotionally with his broken vows while holding steadfastly to his commitment to accompany and protect Phèdre.
So, was a rehashing of the events from Kushiel’s Dart from Joscelin’s perspective really needed? Probably not. But that’s okay. From the start, Cassiel’s Servant had the feel of a pet project pursued by Jaqueline Carey, for her fans and for herself. Sure, it can be read as a standalone, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Kushiel’s Dart is the phenomenon it is, precisely because Phèdre nó Delaunay is a force of nature unto herself. Joscelin may have completed her, but in the greater scheme of things, he was a supporting character in every sense of the word, tagging along like an accessory while Phèdre played heroine. If you’re reading Cassiel’s Servant as a newcomer, you’ll miss out on all the experiences and nuances from the original that made it so extraordinary.
And sure enough, the book became dispensable at the very point where Joscelin meets Phèdre for the very first time. Granted, I confess to sparing a brief swoon for this very consequential meet-cute moment, but everything that followed felt like a faded impression of the original events. While it was fascinating to get Joscelin’s point of view on certain things, in truth, his narrative on the whole added little to what was already known—not so surprising given his backseat role in Kushiel’s Dart. That being said, I could hardly fault him, for despite this being Joscelin’s novel, we all know the story is always and forever going to be Phèdre’s, and like everyone else, he was merely swept up in her orbit.
In fact, my favorite parts of the novel, and I wish there had been more, were the sections going back to Joscelin’s youth. Everything from his family life to his early days at the Brotherhood was brand new territory, and for fans of the character, these chapters may be worth the price of admission alone. They also dispel a lot of the mystery surrounding Joscelin, whose staunch discipline and stoicism in Kushiel’s Dart made him feel somewhat distant. The intro to Cassiel’s Servant goes a long way in painting him as an actual human being with a sympathetic backstory and a fleeting childhood full of hopes and dreams, doubts and fears.
Finally, I can’t tell you what a joy it is to read another Kushiel universe book by Jacqueline Carey. I have read her work extensively, from Santa Olivia and the Agents of Hel series to Starless and Miranda and Caliban. While she is a talented and versatile author who I’m sure is capable of conquering any genre, she’s hands down at her best when writing in the world of Terre d’Ange, falling into a lyrical and elegant style that flows richly off the page.
In conclusion, its questionable necessity aside, I for one am glad this book was written, and despite its limitations I enjoyed it very much. I would highly recommend Cassiel’s Servant for Jacqueline Carey fans, elevating it to must-read status if you’ve also read Kushiel’s Dart. For newcomers who haven’t though, I would advise against braving this one and suggest checking out the original novel instead. Not only do I feel it is the author’s best work, you also won’t get the most out of Joscelin’s side of the story unless you’re first acquainted with Phèdre’s.
I think it’s fair to say that the Kushiel’s Legacy series has captured the imaginations of an entire generation of fantasy readers, and at least in my case, that’s no exaggeration. Growing up, I was not always into books and when I did get around to picking one up, fantasy was probably the last genre I would consider. But fast forward to now, epic fantasy is my favorite genre, I’m a voracious reader, and I credit much of that to Jacqueline Carey and a tattered dog-eared paperback of Kushiel’s Dart that I picked up for a song from a used bookstore while attending university.
Needless to say, the book blew me away. I have since read almost anything I could get my hands on by Carey, including everything set in her Kushiel universe like the Imriel and Naamah trilogies, but it’s the original novel that started it all which has and always will have a special place in my heart. So when I first heard about Cassiel’s Servant, a retelling of Kushiel’s Dart from the point of view of Joscelin Verreuil, my first reaction was an all-out unbridled lose-my-shit kind of excitement. At the time, the question of whether a book like this was even necessary did not enter my mind; I was just happy that Jacqueline Carey was returning to the world of Terre d’Ange.
For the uninitiated, the protagonist of Kushiel’s Dart was Phèdre nó Delaunay, a courtesan trained from childhood to be a spy. An “anquissette” marked by the angel Kushiel to find pleasure in pain, her special talents and proclivities make her popular among the high-ranking members of the royal court, giving her access to some of Terre d’Ange’s most valued secrets. In the process though, Phèdre stumbles upon a plot to usurp the throne, painting a target on her back. A bodyguard from the highly vaunted Cassiline Brotherhood was thus hired to protect her, which is where Joscelin comes in.
Recruited at age ten, Joscelin trained for years to be a warrior priest of Cassiel. Having made a vow of celibacy, his only loyalty is to his patron angel, his order, and his sworn charge. At first, it seemed a cruel joke when he was assigned to guard Phèdre, a servant of Naamah whose tenets are completely antithetical to those of a servant of Cassiel. However, Joscelin, obedient to a fault, will do his duty. But when the conspiracy against the queen sends him and Phèdre on the run through the frozen wilds of Skaldia, the two of them only have each other to rely upon for survival. Against all odds, they fall in love, leading Joscelin to struggle emotionally with his broken vows while holding steadfastly to his commitment to accompany and protect Phèdre.
So, was a rehashing of the events from Kushiel’s Dart from Joscelin’s perspective really needed? Probably not. But that’s okay. From the start, Cassiel’s Servant had the feel of a pet project pursued by Jaqueline Carey, for her fans and for herself. Sure, it can be read as a standalone, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Kushiel’s Dart is the phenomenon it is, precisely because Phèdre nó Delaunay is a force of nature unto herself. Joscelin may have completed her, but in the greater scheme of things, he was a supporting character in every sense of the word, tagging along like an accessory while Phèdre played heroine. If you’re reading Cassiel’s Servant as a newcomer, you’ll miss out on all the experiences and nuances from the original that made it so extraordinary.
And sure enough, the book became dispensable at the very point where Joscelin meets Phèdre for the very first time. Granted, I confess to sparing a brief swoon for this very consequential meet-cute moment, but everything that followed felt like a faded impression of the original events. While it was fascinating to get Joscelin’s point of view on certain things, in truth, his narrative on the whole added little to what was already known—not so surprising given his backseat role in Kushiel’s Dart. That being said, I could hardly fault him, for despite this being Joscelin’s novel, we all know the story is always and forever going to be Phèdre’s, and like everyone else, he was merely swept up in her orbit.
In fact, my favorite parts of the novel, and I wish there had been more, were the sections going back to Joscelin’s youth. Everything from his family life to his early days at the Brotherhood was brand new territory, and for fans of the character, these chapters may be worth the price of admission alone. They also dispel a lot of the mystery surrounding Joscelin, whose staunch discipline and stoicism in Kushiel’s Dart made him feel somewhat distant. The intro to Cassiel’s Servant goes a long way in painting him as an actual human being with a sympathetic backstory and a fleeting childhood full of hopes and dreams, doubts and fears.
Finally, I can’t tell you what a joy it is to read another Kushiel universe book by Jacqueline Carey. I have read her work extensively, from Santa Olivia and the Agents of Hel series to Starless and Miranda and Caliban. While she is a talented and versatile author who I’m sure is capable of conquering any genre, she’s hands down at her best when writing in the world of Terre d’Ange, falling into a lyrical and elegant style that flows richly off the page.
In conclusion, its questionable necessity aside, I for one am glad this book was written, and despite its limitations I enjoyed it very much. I would highly recommend Cassiel’s Servant for Jacqueline Carey fans, elevating it to must-read status if you’ve also read Kushiel’s Dart. For newcomers who haven’t though, I would advise against braving this one and suggest checking out the original novel instead. Not only do I feel it is the author’s best work, you also won’t get the most out of Joscelin’s side of the story unless you’re first acquainted with Phèdre’s.
October 17, 2023
This book was unnecessary and expensive (£11.99 in ebook!).
It's essentially Kushiel's Dart from the POV of a character who isn't as subtle, intelligent or interesting as Phèdre. Apart from 100 pages of warrior-priest boarding school at the beginning, whole swathes of dialogue and plot are repeated from KD.
Joscelin is not a complicated character. If you've read Kushiel's Dart you know everything about him through Phèdre's shrewd POV.
I realised all of this at the 40% point of a 528 page book, but I kept reading for another 300 pages because I was desperately hoping for some new, interesting insight. None came.
These quotes sum up my issues:
Just read Kushiel's Dart Joscelin.
Indeed.
I love this story as told in KD. I don't recommend fans waste their time or money on this retelling.
It's essentially Kushiel's Dart from the POV of a character who isn't as subtle, intelligent or interesting as Phèdre. Apart from 100 pages of warrior-priest boarding school at the beginning, whole swathes of dialogue and plot are repeated from KD.
Joscelin is not a complicated character. If you've read Kushiel's Dart you know everything about him through Phèdre's shrewd POV.
I realised all of this at the 40% point of a 528 page book, but I kept reading for another 300 pages because I was desperately hoping for some new, interesting insight. None came.
These quotes sum up my issues:
I wondered what in the world was going through her thoughts. Betimes it was nigh impossible to tell.
Just read Kushiel's Dart Joscelin.
No one spoke. I remained silent because I had nothing to contribute.
Indeed.
I love this story as told in KD. I don't recommend fans waste their time or money on this retelling.
October 27, 2023
As a Joscelin stan, I was thrilled when I found out that the author had written a book from his viewpoint. I was not disappointed. He was so enigmatic and swoon-worthy in Kushiel's Dart, and this book only adds to his appeal. I loved it! It took me ten years to read the book, but that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy reading it.
Readers who enjoy large scale stories about political intrigue will appreciate the depth of that narrative in what initially seems will be a more intimate story. Despite the far-reaching, epic scale, Carey keeps Joscelin and Phèdre central to the happenings. These two beloved characters have the reader on the edge as they find themselves in harrowing circumstances, relying on their unique skills and learning to trust and support each other. The magic is intrinsic for the world-building of this novel, but it’s subtle and never used as a crutch. However, there are moments where the reader is reminded in such awe-inspiring ways of the otherworldly and the spiritual underpinnings in this series. There is so much to love about this book. Readers who were enthralled by the Kushiel Legacy series will feel like they have come home again with Cassiel’s Servant.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine: https://affairedecoeur.com
Advanced Review Copy provided by Netgalley courtesy of Tor.
Readers who enjoy large scale stories about political intrigue will appreciate the depth of that narrative in what initially seems will be a more intimate story. Despite the far-reaching, epic scale, Carey keeps Joscelin and Phèdre central to the happenings. These two beloved characters have the reader on the edge as they find themselves in harrowing circumstances, relying on their unique skills and learning to trust and support each other. The magic is intrinsic for the world-building of this novel, but it’s subtle and never used as a crutch. However, there are moments where the reader is reminded in such awe-inspiring ways of the otherworldly and the spiritual underpinnings in this series. There is so much to love about this book. Readers who were enthralled by the Kushiel Legacy series will feel like they have come home again with Cassiel’s Servant.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine: https://affairedecoeur.com
Advanced Review Copy provided by Netgalley courtesy of Tor.
February 17, 2023
Thanks to Tor and Macmillan for an advance copy of this book, one I didn't realize I wanted until I saw it.
I've read Kushiel's Dart, the book that this parallels, probably half a dozen times. Joscelin has always seemed like he's got a bit of a stick up his ass (it's TRUE), and I was worried this was going to be essentially Midnight Sun with better sex.
Yall, it is not! The first 20% is just Joscelin's story, starting when the Cassilines arrive at his home to escort him to his training. Traditionally, noble families sent their middle sons to dedicate themselves to Cassiel, a tradition that's fallen out of favor over the years. Until now, Carey's Terre d'Ange books have focused on those dedicated to Naamah (pleasure) and Kushiel (punishment). Cassiel chose to follow Elua, abandoning the One God, knowing himself damned, but dedicated to Elua as the perfect companion. This is what Joscelin is prepared to do, dedicate himself to celibacy and to protect his charge, at the cost of his own life if necessary. While his fellow acolytes may not hew to the guidance of their training with as much dedication as Joscelin, he is respected for his prowess and his dedication, even as he's looked at somewhat askance for being a true believer.
And then, there's Phedre. Vivid, confident, proud, too smart for her own good, willing to pursue pleasure and pain beyond what others may think is wise or safe. Her life, born under Naamah and marked by Kushiel, is the opposite of everything Joscelin has revered, and now he's expected to not only guard her, but accompany her everywhere, to every assignation and ball, to inns and castles and parties, all of which offend his Cassiline sensibilities.
When Phedre and Joscelin are drugged and betrayed by one of her patrons, it's worse than could be imagined-- they're sold into enslavement to the tribes of the north, gathering under the warlord Waldemar Selig. Selig isn't just content to unite the tribes, he's been corresponding with people in Terre d'Ange, and he's bringing the power of his people to overrun and conquer Terre d'Ange. Joscelin and Phedre have to find ways to survive in this cold, foreign world, and then they have to find a way to warn their kingdom.
This book was fantastic. I wouldn't recommend it to readers who haven't read the original trilogy, but I absolutely will recommend it to people who enjoyed the original trilogy. Carey's sensuous, beautifully written worlds continue to draw me in, and I want more books about people who dedicate their lives beyond pleasure and pain.
I've read Kushiel's Dart, the book that this parallels, probably half a dozen times. Joscelin has always seemed like he's got a bit of a stick up his ass (it's TRUE), and I was worried this was going to be essentially Midnight Sun with better sex.
Yall, it is not! The first 20% is just Joscelin's story, starting when the Cassilines arrive at his home to escort him to his training. Traditionally, noble families sent their middle sons to dedicate themselves to Cassiel, a tradition that's fallen out of favor over the years. Until now, Carey's Terre d'Ange books have focused on those dedicated to Naamah (pleasure) and Kushiel (punishment). Cassiel chose to follow Elua, abandoning the One God, knowing himself damned, but dedicated to Elua as the perfect companion. This is what Joscelin is prepared to do, dedicate himself to celibacy and to protect his charge, at the cost of his own life if necessary. While his fellow acolytes may not hew to the guidance of their training with as much dedication as Joscelin, he is respected for his prowess and his dedication, even as he's looked at somewhat askance for being a true believer.
And then, there's Phedre. Vivid, confident, proud, too smart for her own good, willing to pursue pleasure and pain beyond what others may think is wise or safe. Her life, born under Naamah and marked by Kushiel, is the opposite of everything Joscelin has revered, and now he's expected to not only guard her, but accompany her everywhere, to every assignation and ball, to inns and castles and parties, all of which offend his Cassiline sensibilities.
When Phedre and Joscelin are drugged and betrayed by one of her patrons, it's worse than could be imagined-- they're sold into enslavement to the tribes of the north, gathering under the warlord Waldemar Selig. Selig isn't just content to unite the tribes, he's been corresponding with people in Terre d'Ange, and he's bringing the power of his people to overrun and conquer Terre d'Ange. Joscelin and Phedre have to find ways to survive in this cold, foreign world, and then they have to find a way to warn their kingdom.
This book was fantastic. I wouldn't recommend it to readers who haven't read the original trilogy, but I absolutely will recommend it to people who enjoyed the original trilogy. Carey's sensuous, beautifully written worlds continue to draw me in, and I want more books about people who dedicate their lives beyond pleasure and pain.
September 4, 2023
4,5 avis a venir
Avis Lecture 🧐📖 "Cassiel's Servant", Prequel et Réécriture de Kushiel T1, Univers de Terre d'Ange tome 0,5/10, Jacqueline Carey 🌹🗡️
Résumé dans les prochaines slides ➡️
Une poigne de fer, sous une plume de velours...
Bon mon amour pour l'autrice n'est plus à prouver tant j'ai succombé à chacun de ses romans et univers. J'ai terminé cette année toute la grande série de Terre d'Ange et attendais avec impatience ce tome dédié à Joscelin, un personnage qui m'est extrêmement cher🥰
Quand l'autrice avait annoncé un retelling (réécriture) j'ai pris peur. J'ai croisé les doigts pour ne pas avoir un énième roman du style Twilight par Edward etc.😅 Mais l'autrice parvient encore une fois à s'accaparer de mon cœur 🥹💖
On découvre Joscelin à l'âge de 10ans et en quelques paragraphes Carey nous dépeint tout de suite l'atmosphère reignant dans la famille Verreuil. L'arrivée des prêtres guerriers permet à l'autrice d'approfondir l'héritage historique de la famille, ce que j'ai beaucoup aimé car forcément tout ça a un impact puissant sur la psychologie du jeune homme.
La grosse surprise de ce livre vient de toute la partie au sein de la Fraternité, soit environ le premier tiers du récit (Carey écrivant des pavés ça reste donc conséquent). Et j'ai absolument tout aimé ici. On en apprend plus sur l'ordre de Cassiel, les entraînements et les différents serments que jurent les novices. Joscelin est particulièrement attachant et son amitié avec Selwyn (personnage magnifique à mon sens) est très très touchante. Les deux garçons s'admirent et se soutiennent, alors même que leurs convictions s'opposent : la passion de Selwyn face à la rigidité de Joscelin.
Pour autant tout le reste du roman est vraiment bien mené! Alors que l'autrice revisite son tome 1, on découvre les dessous d'événements (inédits pour certains) vécus par Joscelin et voir Phèdre par ses yeux etait une expérience magnifique 💖. Attendez vous à frissonner d'émotions à la mention de Delaunay, Alcuin ou encore Melisande (j'ai d'ailleurs adoré le ressenti de notre héros au moment de sa rencontre avec elle). Je ne pensais pas aimer plus encore Joscelin et pourtant 🥹!
Et vous? Avez vous commencez la série ?🫡
Avis Lecture 🧐📖 "Cassiel's Servant", Prequel et Réécriture de Kushiel T1, Univers de Terre d'Ange tome 0,5/10, Jacqueline Carey 🌹🗡️
Résumé dans les prochaines slides ➡️
Une poigne de fer, sous une plume de velours...
Bon mon amour pour l'autrice n'est plus à prouver tant j'ai succombé à chacun de ses romans et univers. J'ai terminé cette année toute la grande série de Terre d'Ange et attendais avec impatience ce tome dédié à Joscelin, un personnage qui m'est extrêmement cher🥰
Quand l'autrice avait annoncé un retelling (réécriture) j'ai pris peur. J'ai croisé les doigts pour ne pas avoir un énième roman du style Twilight par Edward etc.😅 Mais l'autrice parvient encore une fois à s'accaparer de mon cœur 🥹💖
On découvre Joscelin à l'âge de 10ans et en quelques paragraphes Carey nous dépeint tout de suite l'atmosphère reignant dans la famille Verreuil. L'arrivée des prêtres guerriers permet à l'autrice d'approfondir l'héritage historique de la famille, ce que j'ai beaucoup aimé car forcément tout ça a un impact puissant sur la psychologie du jeune homme.
La grosse surprise de ce livre vient de toute la partie au sein de la Fraternité, soit environ le premier tiers du récit (Carey écrivant des pavés ça reste donc conséquent). Et j'ai absolument tout aimé ici. On en apprend plus sur l'ordre de Cassiel, les entraînements et les différents serments que jurent les novices. Joscelin est particulièrement attachant et son amitié avec Selwyn (personnage magnifique à mon sens) est très très touchante. Les deux garçons s'admirent et se soutiennent, alors même que leurs convictions s'opposent : la passion de Selwyn face à la rigidité de Joscelin.
Pour autant tout le reste du roman est vraiment bien mené! Alors que l'autrice revisite son tome 1, on découvre les dessous d'événements (inédits pour certains) vécus par Joscelin et voir Phèdre par ses yeux etait une expérience magnifique 💖. Attendez vous à frissonner d'émotions à la mention de Delaunay, Alcuin ou encore Melisande (j'ai d'ailleurs adoré le ressenti de notre héros au moment de sa rencontre avec elle). Je ne pensais pas aimer plus encore Joscelin et pourtant 🥹!
Et vous? Avez vous commencez la série ?🫡
January 31, 2024
This book is a rehash of Kushiel's Dart from the MMC POV of Joscelin Verreuil. Was it needed? Ehhh, no? Did I love the shit out of it anyway? Yes.
My only issue is that this book doesn't really work on its own. Joscelin was a side character of Kushiel's Dart, and that story is and remains Phedre's. There's a lot here that is boiled down to a more concise treatment of the plot, and there's a lot of points Joscelin didn't have access to, so it wouldn't make sense to offer him viewpoints on it. I understand that, but unfortunately, it left some weird moments where it felt like there was just a lot of telling the reader what was going on. I get that I wouldn't want a direct retelling of Kushiels Dart, but it leaves a weird love/hate feeling while reading.
However, I absolutely loved the earlier look into Joscelin's life training to become a Casseline Brother. It was such an interesting perspective, which I think really helped round out the character. I now know more about the brotherhood, their ideology, and how Josceline perceived himself within them. Sometimes in Kushiel's Dart, there could be some eye rolly yes, yes, you're a brother moments, and I think this book really drove home what it meant to Joscelin to be a brother and what ultimately giving up those vows meant in a way that was much more impactful than it was. The nature of his POV vs. being more of a side character.
Also, it was just 12/10 for the romance portions from the male pov. I'm always a sucker for those, and I definitely swooned here. In Kushiel's Dart, the romance is a bit more of a subplot, and I loved getting a few more emotional moments.
Overall, it's probably 4.5, but I'm going to round up to 5 because I love these books, and I can.
My only issue is that this book doesn't really work on its own. Joscelin was a side character of Kushiel's Dart, and that story is and remains Phedre's. There's a lot here that is boiled down to a more concise treatment of the plot, and there's a lot of points Joscelin didn't have access to, so it wouldn't make sense to offer him viewpoints on it. I understand that, but unfortunately, it left some weird moments where it felt like there was just a lot of telling the reader what was going on. I get that I wouldn't want a direct retelling of Kushiels Dart, but it leaves a weird love/hate feeling while reading.
However, I absolutely loved the earlier look into Joscelin's life training to become a Casseline Brother. It was such an interesting perspective, which I think really helped round out the character. I now know more about the brotherhood, their ideology, and how Josceline perceived himself within them. Sometimes in Kushiel's Dart, there could be some eye rolly yes, yes, you're a brother moments, and I think this book really drove home what it meant to Joscelin to be a brother and what ultimately giving up those vows meant in a way that was much more impactful than it was. The nature of his POV vs. being more of a side character.
Also, it was just 12/10 for the romance portions from the male pov. I'm always a sucker for those, and I definitely swooned here. In Kushiel's Dart, the romance is a bit more of a subplot, and I loved getting a few more emotional moments.
Overall, it's probably 4.5, but I'm going to round up to 5 because I love these books, and I can.
September 30, 2023
TL;DR: He's just Ken (his job is dagger!) and I love that for us.
It's been years since I've read this series but wow was it good to be back. 4.5 stars only because without reading the first book, a lot of the political intrigue is presented to us without the insight that having Phedre as the POV character provides. I would not recommend reading this right after Kushiel's Dart because there isn't enough newness to keep you interested.
It's been years since I've read this series but wow was it good to be back. 4.5 stars only because without reading the first book, a lot of the political intrigue is presented to us without the insight that having Phedre as the POV character provides. I would not recommend reading this right after Kushiel's Dart because there isn't enough newness to keep you interested.
February 20, 2024
After years of training, Joscelin Verrail joins the ranks of the Cassiline Brotherhood as a celibate warrior-priest. As such, he's displeased to find himself assigned to protect the young courtesan Phèdre, never anticipating how it'll sweep him up into a world of danger and political intrigue.
I should say off the bat that I love the Kushiel's Legacy series, and the first book, Kushiel's Dart, is one of my favorite books of all time. While I didn't exactly like Joscelin when he was first introduced, I came to appreciate him along with Phèdre and enjoyed the evolution of their relationship. However, I was a little wary when I heard that Carey was releasing a rewrite of Kushiel's Dart from Joscelin's perspective, because I wasn't sure what was left unmined to uncover now.
The beginning of the story sucked me in. We follow Joscelin as he embarks on his training with the Cassiline Brothers, and I enjoyed learning more about his background, friendships, and the brotherhood itself. It was fascinating to see his blossoming relationship with Phèdre from his perspective, and how he reconciled it with his still strong adherence to the spirit of his vows. I certainly got a deeper appreciation for the dynamics at play, as well as his wry admiration for both her brilliance and her love of dramatics.
However, I am still unconvinced that this book needed to be written. After the first quarter of the book, we meet Phèdre and get back on familiar ground, and at that point the story became breezy. I almost felt like I was reading a recap of the events of Kushiel's Dart. That Joscelin is so continually Phèdre's companion and protector means that we don't get to cover much new ground, and indeed his more straightforward perspective usually just made me miss her twisty, technicolor one.
Maybe we would have better off with just the prequel novella of Joscelin's time in the Prefectory. I certainly would not recommend this book to casual readers of Carey, and temper any recommendation with the warning to read it only once you've read the main series through. It is just more supplemental material than book in my eyes.
I should say off the bat that I love the Kushiel's Legacy series, and the first book, Kushiel's Dart, is one of my favorite books of all time. While I didn't exactly like Joscelin when he was first introduced, I came to appreciate him along with Phèdre and enjoyed the evolution of their relationship. However, I was a little wary when I heard that Carey was releasing a rewrite of Kushiel's Dart from Joscelin's perspective, because I wasn't sure what was left unmined to uncover now.
The beginning of the story sucked me in. We follow Joscelin as he embarks on his training with the Cassiline Brothers, and I enjoyed learning more about his background, friendships, and the brotherhood itself. It was fascinating to see his blossoming relationship with Phèdre from his perspective, and how he reconciled it with his still strong adherence to the spirit of his vows. I certainly got a deeper appreciation for the dynamics at play, as well as his wry admiration for both her brilliance and her love of dramatics.
However, I am still unconvinced that this book needed to be written. After the first quarter of the book, we meet Phèdre and get back on familiar ground, and at that point the story became breezy. I almost felt like I was reading a recap of the events of Kushiel's Dart. That Joscelin is so continually Phèdre's companion and protector means that we don't get to cover much new ground, and indeed his more straightforward perspective usually just made me miss her twisty, technicolor one.
Maybe we would have better off with just the prequel novella of Joscelin's time in the Prefectory. I certainly would not recommend this book to casual readers of Carey, and temper any recommendation with the warning to read it only once you've read the main series through. It is just more supplemental material than book in my eyes.
March 15, 2024
Final Thoughts: I really really enjoyed the first third or so of this. It was nice to get Josselin's back story and experience his life at the Cassiline Brotherhood. However, once the story progressed to Skaldia and beyond it became obvious that even in Josselin's eyes, Phedre is the main character. I still recommend this to anyone who is a fan of the Kushiel's series, especially the first half. 3 stars, with a bonus for how much I love the rest of the series.
27%: Can I say that I absolutely love the fact that Carey is telling a full story here, not just repeating the exact events of Kushiel's Dart through Josselin's eyes? I'm hoping this keeps up throughout the entire story.
I can't believe I won a Giveaway copy of this!!!!
I'm so excited to start it this weekend! I just need to finish my reread of Kushiel's Dart, (Because clearly the 11 times I've already read it were not sufficient!)
27%: Can I say that I absolutely love the fact that Carey is telling a full story here, not just repeating the exact events of Kushiel's Dart through Josselin's eyes? I'm hoping this keeps up throughout the entire story.
I can't believe I won a Giveaway copy of this!!!!
I'm so excited to start it this weekend! I just need to finish my reread of Kushiel's Dart, (Because clearly the 11 times I've already read it were not sufficient!)
September 15, 2023
I need a Joscelin POV of book 2 more than I need anything else in life.
Pretty please with sugar, cherries, whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles on top? I'll just sit here and wait impatiently, ok?
Pretty please with sugar, cherries, whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles on top? I'll just sit here and wait impatiently, ok?
dnf-dnr
August 7, 2024Definitively decided not to read this, since I am far from being a fan of Joscelin. And the draw for the series for me is the whole sex work - kink - queer-norm angle, not the classic paladin-lite brooding straight guy who is sad at losing his honor.
August 12, 2023
A perspective I didn’t know I needed. Told with patience, tension (a tough feat given most readers know the major plot points) and detail; it’s a rewarding and captivating story,
October 25, 2023
I hope she writes more of Josceline POV. Never the less I thoroughly enjoyed my journey back into the Kushiel's series. The first 3 books having shaped me into the person I am today. Love as thou wilt is something like a mantra for me. But more so, these books sparked my love of reading, and I will be forever grateful for their existence. Thank you so very much, JC, for taking the time to write them.
October 16, 2023
Having taken some time to think it over, I'm very much of two minds about Cassiel's Servant, Jacqueline Carey's retelling of Kushiel's Dart from Joscelin's perspective.
On the one hand, I'm a HUGE fan of Phèdre's story and was eager to have an excuse to revisit the realm of Terre d’Ange. It's a gorgeous world and an epic story, full of characters I've loved and loathed (sometimes at the same time) for two decades. Even though we start from a different place, exploring Joscelin's youth and training as a Cassiline warrior-priest, the world and the writing are wonderfully familiar. We're witnessing his youth for the first time, but doing so already knowing where his story ends, and that allows us to appreciate key moments and the meanings behind them.
Of course, that foreknowledge also allows us to anticipate the seeds of romance planted between Joscelin and Phèdre, and being inside his head reveals when and where his affections began. That's probably the most interesting (and significant) part of the book, knowing the truth behind what Phèdre could only infer from glances and mannerisms. Because of that, we get to experience his character growth and development at an earlier stage in the story, which softens many of his edges.
On the other hand, there's nothing new in terms of plot, no pivotal revelations to which we weren't privy the first time around. In many ways it's a weaker story because Joscelin is only a witness to so much of it, and his narrative lacks the urgency and self-awareness of Phèdre's. More importantly, through his voice it becomes a more traditional fantasy, sanitized and thinned out, without the groundbreaking eroticism of the original. It's interesting to experience the emotional pain behind his disdain for Phèdre's assignations as an anguissette, but it's her physical pain (and pleasure) that made the original book such a standout work of art.
Cassiel's Servant is an interesting experiment in narrative, and there's no question that reconnecting with Joscelin, Phèdre, and Hyacinthe is entertaining, but the whole book feels unnecessary (at best), and a awkward censorship of Kushiel's Dart (at worst). I'm sure that wasn't the intent, but given that I connected so deeply to Phèdre's erotic S&M experiences, it's hard not to feel a sense of loss or denial with such a retelling.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2023/...
On the one hand, I'm a HUGE fan of Phèdre's story and was eager to have an excuse to revisit the realm of Terre d’Ange. It's a gorgeous world and an epic story, full of characters I've loved and loathed (sometimes at the same time) for two decades. Even though we start from a different place, exploring Joscelin's youth and training as a Cassiline warrior-priest, the world and the writing are wonderfully familiar. We're witnessing his youth for the first time, but doing so already knowing where his story ends, and that allows us to appreciate key moments and the meanings behind them.
Of course, that foreknowledge also allows us to anticipate the seeds of romance planted between Joscelin and Phèdre, and being inside his head reveals when and where his affections began. That's probably the most interesting (and significant) part of the book, knowing the truth behind what Phèdre could only infer from glances and mannerisms. Because of that, we get to experience his character growth and development at an earlier stage in the story, which softens many of his edges.
On the other hand, there's nothing new in terms of plot, no pivotal revelations to which we weren't privy the first time around. In many ways it's a weaker story because Joscelin is only a witness to so much of it, and his narrative lacks the urgency and self-awareness of Phèdre's. More importantly, through his voice it becomes a more traditional fantasy, sanitized and thinned out, without the groundbreaking eroticism of the original. It's interesting to experience the emotional pain behind his disdain for Phèdre's assignations as an anguissette, but it's her physical pain (and pleasure) that made the original book such a standout work of art.
Cassiel's Servant is an interesting experiment in narrative, and there's no question that reconnecting with Joscelin, Phèdre, and Hyacinthe is entertaining, but the whole book feels unnecessary (at best), and a awkward censorship of Kushiel's Dart (at worst). I'm sure that wasn't the intent, but given that I connected so deeply to Phèdre's erotic S&M experiences, it's hard not to feel a sense of loss or denial with such a retelling.
https://sallybend.wordpress.com/2023/...
May 16, 2024
A comforting return home, and the story of a darling of a character but not a must-read.
This is Joscelin's story before and during the "Kushiel's Dart." Same as with Phedre, we meet Joscelin as a young boy and accompany him through his years becoming a Cassiline brother.
From the point of him being assigned to protect Delauny's pupils, the plot does not diverge from the story of Kushiel's Dart aside from a few scenes. Despite the earlier chapters of Joscelin growing up, I wouldn't recommend reading this book for the plot.
Neither is it an alternative to Kushiel's Dart. The narrator's voice in Carey's novels is always impactful, and as much as I love Joscelin, Phèdre's voice is much more vibrant and engaging.
Still, theirs is one of the most beautiful love stories I've ever read, and Joscelin is one of my favourite male characters of recent years. It was rather sweet seeing him as a young boy, and fascinating to see how he became the young man we first met in Kushiel's Dart. Many of the early chapters give more inside into the eventual importance of already known scenes and make those more meaningful.
His reluctant yet slowly growing love for Phèdre is definitely the highlight of this book. His initial distain and arrogance slowly fade as he's humbled by his struggles and eventually becomes first reluctant admiration and then love.
It's very satisfactory to get this new perspective on their joined adventure, and it rendered each and every moment in a new light. Joscelin is such a stoic and often quiet character that being in his mind is quite a treat and only enhanced the love I feel for their relationship.
This is by no means a necessary read and not to be recommended to plot-focused readers. For fans, though, this can be such a sweet, comforting return home and an exciting insight into our favourite Casseline.
This is Joscelin's story before and during the "Kushiel's Dart." Same as with Phedre, we meet Joscelin as a young boy and accompany him through his years becoming a Cassiline brother.
From the point of him being assigned to protect Delauny's pupils, the plot does not diverge from the story of Kushiel's Dart aside from a few scenes. Despite the earlier chapters of Joscelin growing up, I wouldn't recommend reading this book for the plot.
Neither is it an alternative to Kushiel's Dart. The narrator's voice in Carey's novels is always impactful, and as much as I love Joscelin, Phèdre's voice is much more vibrant and engaging.
Still, theirs is one of the most beautiful love stories I've ever read, and Joscelin is one of my favourite male characters of recent years. It was rather sweet seeing him as a young boy, and fascinating to see how he became the young man we first met in Kushiel's Dart. Many of the early chapters give more inside into the eventual importance of already known scenes and make those more meaningful.
His reluctant yet slowly growing love for Phèdre is definitely the highlight of this book. His initial distain and arrogance slowly fade as he's humbled by his struggles and eventually becomes first reluctant admiration and then love.
It's very satisfactory to get this new perspective on their joined adventure, and it rendered each and every moment in a new light. Joscelin is such a stoic and often quiet character that being in his mind is quite a treat and only enhanced the love I feel for their relationship.
This is by no means a necessary read and not to be recommended to plot-focused readers. For fans, though, this can be such a sweet, comforting return home and an exciting insight into our favourite Casseline.
October 9, 2023
Ok look, I cannot possibly be objective about this book, and I'll own that, for sure. I have loved the story of Phedre and Joscelin for nearly 20 years. I was an easy mark for this book.
Did this book need to exist? No. Did it add anything new to our understanding of canon? Aside from learning about the Cassiline Brotherhood, no, not really. Is it going to resonate or, in some ways, even make sense to someone who hasn't read Kushiel's Dart? Honestly, probably not.
Regardless, I loved it anyway. I loved the opening chapters detailing Joscelin's time training to be a Cassiline, I loved learning about the friends he made there and the challenges he faced. I loved being able to see things through his eyes, see how he slowly finds his heart softening to Phedre.
I just wish there was more. More of his interior life, more of his thoughts and motivations. He is by nature a closed off, fairly repressed guy in terms of emotions and I would have liked to see more of that struggle. A couple of reviews here have mentioned that Joscelin isn't even the main character in his own novel, and that's absolutely true -- his world now and always revolves around Phedre, and she at times takes over the story to the detriment of getting to be more in Joscelin's head.
I think this probably would have been better served as a novella, a teaser for die-hard fans before launching into some sort of Joscelin trilogy. I do hope she continues with the series -- Kushiel's Chosen and Kushiel's Avatar have much longer stretches where Joscelin and Phedre are separated and we can see more aspects of the story that were hidden to us because Phedre wasn't there for them. And I've always been fascinated to know what Phedre and Joscelin truly got up to during the Imriel trilogy; we know they were off having their own adventures in their attempts to unravel the mysteries of the Master of the Straits. I know it's sometimes an author's worst impulse to explain every last detail of their universe but consider: I want to know every last detail.
So, yeah - if this was a book by another author, another series that I didn't care so deeply about, I wouldn't rate it this high, but I am biased and okay with that.
Did this book need to exist? No. Did it add anything new to our understanding of canon? Aside from learning about the Cassiline Brotherhood, no, not really. Is it going to resonate or, in some ways, even make sense to someone who hasn't read Kushiel's Dart? Honestly, probably not.
Regardless, I loved it anyway. I loved the opening chapters detailing Joscelin's time training to be a Cassiline, I loved learning about the friends he made there and the challenges he faced. I loved being able to see things through his eyes, see how he slowly finds his heart softening to Phedre.
I just wish there was more. More of his interior life, more of his thoughts and motivations. He is by nature a closed off, fairly repressed guy in terms of emotions and I would have liked to see more of that struggle. A couple of reviews here have mentioned that Joscelin isn't even the main character in his own novel, and that's absolutely true -- his world now and always revolves around Phedre, and she at times takes over the story to the detriment of getting to be more in Joscelin's head.
I think this probably would have been better served as a novella, a teaser for die-hard fans before launching into some sort of Joscelin trilogy. I do hope she continues with the series -- Kushiel's Chosen and Kushiel's Avatar have much longer stretches where Joscelin and Phedre are separated and we can see more aspects of the story that were hidden to us because Phedre wasn't there for them. And I've always been fascinated to know what Phedre and Joscelin truly got up to during the Imriel trilogy; we know they were off having their own adventures in their attempts to unravel the mysteries of the Master of the Straits. I know it's sometimes an author's worst impulse to explain every last detail of their universe but consider: I want to know every last detail.
So, yeah - if this was a book by another author, another series that I didn't care so deeply about, I wouldn't rate it this high, but I am biased and okay with that.
July 15, 2023
I have not actually read any other books in this series or this world but that didn't stop me from reading this one. At no point did I feel confused or like I was missing something.
And it has such a good fantasy romance element in this book. I am a sucker for all things fantasy romance and this delivered and it delivered hard.
The characters are so well developed and well written. You really feel the passion, emotion, and intensity that goes on throughout this book.
I am definitely now interested in reading more books in this series.
And it has such a good fantasy romance element in this book. I am a sucker for all things fantasy romance and this delivered and it delivered hard.
The characters are so well developed and well written. You really feel the passion, emotion, and intensity that goes on throughout this book.
I am definitely now interested in reading more books in this series.
September 30, 2023
Više od 22 godina prošlo je od objavljivanja romana „Kushiela strijela“ prve knjige trilogije „Kushielovo naslijeđe“ vrlo popularno serijala o kurtizani i špijunki Phédre nó Dealuney te njezinom pratitelju Joscelinu Verreuilu.
U kolovozu nam je stigao svojevrsni nastavak serijala nazvan „Cassiel's Servant“ koja opisuje događaje iz Joscelinove perspektive. Ona pokriva događaje koji su već prethodno opisani u romanu „Kushielova strijela“. Ovdje je Phédre nó Dealuney sporedni lik te nema toliko puno akcije, opisa i uzbuđenja kao i prethodnim romanima. Stoga su određeni događaji i opisi izostavljeni, ali i malo skraćeni. U ovo romanu možemo detaljnije vidjeti ustrojstvo reda Cassiel, život i djetinjstvo Joscelina te njegov odlazak u red Cassiela sve susreta sa Phédre kada se događaji djelomično isprepliću.
Ako niste prethodno čitali trilogiju „Kushielovo naslijeđe“ nemojte čitati ovu knjigu, prije svega, jer Vam čitanje trilogije neće biti zanimljivo.
Bilo mi je zanimljivo vratiti se ponovno u ovaj izuzetno zanimljiv svijet Terre d’Ange i njezine likove. Međutim, malo mi je u ovoj knjizi izostala akcija, izazovi, zapleti kao u prethodnim knjigama. Možda zato što sam to već prethodno pročitao u trilogiji pa sam znao što će se dogoditi dalje u ovoj knjizi. Posljednja poglavlja su mi se nekako na određeni način činila zbrzana, posebice, tamo gdje se opisuje bitka za Troyes-le-Mont. Nekako sam imao osjećao u neki trenutcima kao da čitam udžbenik povijest jer u određenim trenutcima izostaje prikaz i karakterizacija likova, razgovor o njihovim emocijama i osjećajima te neki događaji.
Unatoč tomu, drago mi je da sam pročitao ovaj roman te se sjetio one lijepe i zanimljive trilogije koju sam pročitao prije par godina.
Ukoliko ste pročitali sve knjige iz serijala „Kushielovo naslijeđe“, a želite još ovo je prava knjiga za Vas jer će Vas posjetiti na događaje iz „Kushielove strijele“ koja je fenomenalna. Meni osobno čak bolja od romana „Igra prijestolja“
U kolovozu nam je stigao svojevrsni nastavak serijala nazvan „Cassiel's Servant“ koja opisuje događaje iz Joscelinove perspektive. Ona pokriva događaje koji su već prethodno opisani u romanu „Kushielova strijela“. Ovdje je Phédre nó Dealuney sporedni lik te nema toliko puno akcije, opisa i uzbuđenja kao i prethodnim romanima. Stoga su određeni događaji i opisi izostavljeni, ali i malo skraćeni. U ovo romanu možemo detaljnije vidjeti ustrojstvo reda Cassiel, život i djetinjstvo Joscelina te njegov odlazak u red Cassiela sve susreta sa Phédre kada se događaji djelomično isprepliću.
Ako niste prethodno čitali trilogiju „Kushielovo naslijeđe“ nemojte čitati ovu knjigu, prije svega, jer Vam čitanje trilogije neće biti zanimljivo.
Bilo mi je zanimljivo vratiti se ponovno u ovaj izuzetno zanimljiv svijet Terre d’Ange i njezine likove. Međutim, malo mi je u ovoj knjizi izostala akcija, izazovi, zapleti kao u prethodnim knjigama. Možda zato što sam to već prethodno pročitao u trilogiji pa sam znao što će se dogoditi dalje u ovoj knjizi. Posljednja poglavlja su mi se nekako na određeni način činila zbrzana, posebice, tamo gdje se opisuje bitka za Troyes-le-Mont. Nekako sam imao osjećao u neki trenutcima kao da čitam udžbenik povijest jer u određenim trenutcima izostaje prikaz i karakterizacija likova, razgovor o njihovim emocijama i osjećajima te neki događaji.
Unatoč tomu, drago mi je da sam pročitao ovaj roman te se sjetio one lijepe i zanimljive trilogije koju sam pročitao prije par godina.
Ukoliko ste pročitali sve knjige iz serijala „Kushielovo naslijeđe“, a želite još ovo je prava knjiga za Vas jer će Vas posjetiti na događaje iz „Kushielove strijele“ koja je fenomenalna. Meni osobno čak bolja od romana „Igra prijestolja“
August 22, 2023
This trilogy is one that has stayed in my mind for years after its end, the fact that I can reread it through Joscelin's eyes can only make me happy, considering that I usually never reread. I had forgotten, however, the degree of complexity of the palace intrigues....
Questa trilogia é una di quelle che mi é rimasta in mente per anni dopo la sua fine, il fatto di poterla rileggere attraverso gli occhi di Joscelin non puó che farmi felice, considerato che di solito non rileggo mai. Mi ero dimenticata peró il grado di complessità degli intrighi di palazzo....
Questa trilogia é una di quelle che mi é rimasta in mente per anni dopo la sua fine, il fatto di poterla rileggere attraverso gli occhi di Joscelin non puó che farmi felice, considerato che di solito non rileggo mai. Mi ero dimenticata peró il grado di complessità degli intrighi di palazzo....
September 11, 2023
ABSOLUTELY OBSESSED
BOOK BOYFRIEND VIBES PERFECTED
BOOK BOYFRIEND VIBES PERFECTED
July 31, 2023
ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME OMG OMG OMG EXCITEMENT'S NOT THE WORD I'M THINKING OF THERE IS SO MUCH MORE INSIDE ME NOW
The lush epic fantasy that inspired a generation with a single precept: “Love As Thou Wilt."
Honestly, usually I look at such tag lines in descriptions and scoff, except in this case? Kushiel's Dart did exactly that. Oh my heart, I have no idea how this is going to live up to the perfection of that series through the eyes of my 20 year old self.
The answer? No, it did not live up to that series.
It's hard for me to tell whether it was a difficulty with the character of Joscelin just being less compelling inside his own head, or whether I knew the other book too well that this one really just felt as though there were bit patches missing in it basically from the point that Joscelin first meets Phedre.
In a lot of ways, I feel as though this book would have been better if it ended at the point where Joscelin recieves his assignment and arrives at the door of Anafiel Delauny.
Don't get me wrong, there are really good moments in Joscelin's story, and the friendship between him and Selwyn is as compelling as it is tragic. But that too ends before he arrives at Anafiel. Despite the fact that the author continued to try to make that friendship relevant in Joscelin's thoughts through the rest of the novel, I really didn't feel like it paid off.
And so instead we are left with Joscelin forming friendships with little known side characters from Kushiel's Dart while trying desperately to form conversations that aren't just a rehash of the ones we've already read before when going through this plot.
The other thing that sincerely didn't work for me was that Joscelin's dislike and discomfort with Phedre being an anguisette came across too often as her not consenting and it not at all being something that connected her to the divinity she was born under. That was probably the most unforgivable thing to me, because that aspect, of the pain and pleasure that she experiences, was probably the most forward thinking thing that the original novel brought us all the way back in 2000.
The lush epic fantasy that inspired a generation with a single precept: “Love As Thou Wilt."
Honestly, usually I look at such tag lines in descriptions and scoff, except in this case? Kushiel's Dart did exactly that. Oh my heart, I have no idea how this is going to live up to the perfection of that series through the eyes of my 20 year old self.
The answer? No, it did not live up to that series.
It's hard for me to tell whether it was a difficulty with the character of Joscelin just being less compelling inside his own head, or whether I knew the other book too well that this one really just felt as though there were bit patches missing in it basically from the point that Joscelin first meets Phedre.
In a lot of ways, I feel as though this book would have been better if it ended at the point where Joscelin recieves his assignment and arrives at the door of Anafiel Delauny.
Don't get me wrong, there are really good moments in Joscelin's story, and the friendship between him and Selwyn is as compelling as it is tragic. But that too ends before he arrives at Anafiel. Despite the fact that the author continued to try to make that friendship relevant in Joscelin's thoughts through the rest of the novel, I really didn't feel like it paid off.
And so instead we are left with Joscelin forming friendships with little known side characters from Kushiel's Dart while trying desperately to form conversations that aren't just a rehash of the ones we've already read before when going through this plot.
The other thing that sincerely didn't work for me was that Joscelin's dislike and discomfort with Phedre being an anguisette came across too often as her not consenting and it not at all being something that connected her to the divinity she was born under. That was probably the most unforgivable thing to me, because that aspect, of the pain and pleasure that she experiences, was probably the most forward thinking thing that the original novel brought us all the way back in 2000.
July 14, 2023
3.5 stars
I'm foregoing rating via the CAWPILE system for this, because it's very much a companion novel. If you read this as a standalone, or the first book in the series, you wouldn't feel very connected to characters or involved in the political intrigue at all. As it is, it reads more like an adventure novel, with a definite layer of emotional distance. That's fitting, given the MC, Joscelin, is emotionally distant/reserved and a trained elite fighter. But also, this follows the events of three books, condensed into one. As a marketing tool, it's cleverly done. I wasn't captivated by the story at all, but it did serve to remind me of the original trilogy (and I forgot far less about that story than I thought!) and now I do want to re-read all of the Terre D'Ange novels. In terms of adding to the existing world, it did give Joscelin a little more humanity- mainly in presenting us with an MC who was slavish to his dream of what his destiny would be (ironic, against the character of the Duc d'Aiglemort) and then has to learn to live with himself when that's ground away, and find his own path that honors what he believes about himself and the world. In that, Joscelin is more akin to a modern reader than Phedre was- which I did not expect, as Joscelin is an epic fighter and unhumanly stoic in Phedre's trilogy. I can admire this while also admitting that for me, Cassiel's Servant didn't enrich the world or story. I think each fan of Jacqueline Carey's series will have a different take on that, but I tend to vibe better with new information rather than known information presented in a different light.
TL;DR: Good, not great. Not a necessary read even for a huge fan of the original trilogy.
I'm foregoing rating via the CAWPILE system for this, because it's very much a companion novel. If you read this as a standalone, or the first book in the series, you wouldn't feel very connected to characters or involved in the political intrigue at all. As it is, it reads more like an adventure novel, with a definite layer of emotional distance. That's fitting, given the MC, Joscelin, is emotionally distant/reserved and a trained elite fighter. But also, this follows the events of three books, condensed into one. As a marketing tool, it's cleverly done. I wasn't captivated by the story at all, but it did serve to remind me of the original trilogy (and I forgot far less about that story than I thought!) and now I do want to re-read all of the Terre D'Ange novels. In terms of adding to the existing world, it did give Joscelin a little more humanity- mainly in presenting us with an MC who was slavish to his dream of what his destiny would be (ironic, against the character of the Duc d'Aiglemort) and then has to learn to live with himself when that's ground away, and find his own path that honors what he believes about himself and the world. In that, Joscelin is more akin to a modern reader than Phedre was- which I did not expect, as Joscelin is an epic fighter and unhumanly stoic in Phedre's trilogy. I can admire this while also admitting that for me, Cassiel's Servant didn't enrich the world or story. I think each fan of Jacqueline Carey's series will have a different take on that, but I tend to vibe better with new information rather than known information presented in a different light.
TL;DR: Good, not great. Not a necessary read even for a huge fan of the original trilogy.
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