Tigana

by Guy Gavriel Kay

This was the first time I’d read this author even though I’d seen his books on shelves for years, and now I’m wondering why I waited to so long to give him a chance. This was a quality fantasy read. A intricate, interwoven plotline; complex and likeable characters (even some of the ‘bad’ guys); smart characters, which is always refreshing; and a world that is fully alive. And of course, some romantic subplots and a satisfactory ending (because, let’s be honest, those are not insignificant factors for me 😉 ). It’s a standalone book for once, not a series. It’s also a pretty hefty tome, so I’m not sure how to talk plot details adequately and without spoilers. Suffice it to say that the heart of the story is about a land cursed by magic, and the long quest to undo that curse. It hops between a few characters whose viewpoints you follow, but not to extent of books by the likes of George RR Martin so it’s easier to keep track of who is who. It’s got a handful of dry parts and one of the villains is cardboard-quality, but overall I very much liked it. I will definitely be reading more by this author.

I give it 4.5/5 stars.