Category: Marian L Thorpe

Empire’s Heir by Marian L. Thorpe – a young woman must make decisions that will affect an Empire on the edge of history.

October 13, 2021
Empire's Heir (Empire's Legacy Book 6) by [Marian L Thorpe]

Empire’s Heir by Marian L Thorpe

Intense, moving and deeply personal, this novel set on the edge of history is a picture of an unconventional family under various threats is an engaging read. A political thriller of sorts, this is a novel which features a subtle and intelligent story of a group of people who are playing for high stakes – their lives and the survival of their country in the face of a powerful ruling Empire. The talented author continues a saga in a created world which draws inspiration and historical veracity from Roman history with other elements added. This book is the second in a second trilogy of an Empire where women are frequently warriors, politicians and in the case of one of the main characters here, diplomats. Gwenna is a young woman who is the acknowledged heir to the land of Esperias, and it is largely her story which dominates this novel which I believe can be read as a standalone and indeed taster for the other novels. Certainly most of the challenges she faces in this novel are new and must be worked at independently of what has gone before; her parents have their own stories but this is Gwenna’s story. While her father Cillian is present, her mother Lena is coping with a tragic loss and her fears for the future, taking some refuge in the military role which she is uniquely qualified for given her stormy past. 

This is a novel told through the perspectives of Gwenna and Cillian as they make choices and take actions that may have implications for thousands of people as well as themselves. The inherent tension kept me reading, the world creation is superbly consistent, and yet it is the humanity of the narrative which maintains interest. Thorpe is a skilful creator of characters and settings in the little details, the small points that reveal immense research into the sources which construct an Empire on the edge of history, and I was accordingly so pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this deeply satisfying book. 

As the book opens Gwenna is negotiating a trade deal with the ruler of a neighbouring state. It concerns wool as befits a largely agricultural state, but it also reveals the sophistication of the society in which Gwenna and her family live and act. Gwenna acquits herself well, despite the fact that both sides are dealing with personal griefs that will echo throughout the book. She also reveals that she has been invited to the investiture of the new Emperor of the East who was assuming his role from the abdication of his mother who had been the effective ruler of the Empire. Gwenna has been invited specifically in her role as heir to the leadership of Esparius, but also as a potential bride for this new young Emperor. There turns out to be competition for the role, other young women whose backgrounds also represent political implications as well as their own personality, and Gwenna must make fine judgements of her wishes amid huge tensions. The other point of view narrator of the story is Cillian, her father, whose own history with the Empress is complex, and together with Lena, has made decisions that have affected his own position as well as nominating his eldest child for a role that she was given as a baby. He is determined to accompany her to Casil, even though he knows that he risks his own life in several ways; as a sick man who needs constant medical attention, but also as a potential traitor who has walked a tightrope of diplomacy for decades. 

This is a vivid story of family, friends, and others whose lives are being decided by a complex set of circumstances frequently beyond their control. Though in a unique setting, their actions, reactions and emotions are common to people throughout history and everywhere. I recommend this novel as an engaging continuation of a well established story, but also a tension filled narrative of a group of people negotiating a complex situation in its own right. 

Empire’s Reckoning by Marian L Thorpe – an Empire on the edge of history Reprised

July 11, 2020

 

A group of countries on the edge of history, this is the story of a new arrangement, a new agreement between states that border each other, overlap and have to find a way to work together. A story which started in the Empire Legacy trilogy, this is a historical fantasy which looks at  a group of people at the heart of a political situation. It features Cillian, unwilling politician, linguist and thinker, his wife Lena, warrior, who narrated the original novels, and, Sorley, a musician who has taken over the narration. In this book he narrates the story of his experiences with the couple, as well as Druisius or Druise his companion, bodyguard and lover in two time lines, fourteen years apart.  It makes for a complex book, but the element that holds it together is the people, four people who appear in both timelines, strong characters that affect all they meet. Sorley is a vivid narrator, expressing his feelings, often of regret, but also hurt,desire and helplessness. This brilliantly paced book has so much momentum that it is a compelling read. Difficult to categorise, this is such a fascinating book that I was so pleased to have the opportunity to read and review it.

 

Sorley is a very involved narrator, who has witnessed and been an important part of the lives of the other three people. The book opens with the situation in the later period, as Cillian and Lena lead a community where there are several students studying various topics as part of a new arrangement of countries. Included in the students are Lena and Cillian’s two children, ten year old Colm and fourteen year old Gwenna, the latter appearing in both timelines as an important person in her own right. The rules concerning the community are strict regarding the expression of affection even between married couples, and Cillian’s relationship with Sorley is complex. Lena is still the tough, fierce defender of those she loves. Sorley is about to leave for his homeland, and it is the subject for debate about who is to go with him. Gwenna is already a political figure as her father is of the Emperor’s family, she is officially a princess. Aware of the tensions surrounding her, she complains “Why are there so many secrets in this family?” As the politics of several countries are still complex, fourteen years on from an uneasy settlement, Sorley’s narration returns to that difficult period when the treaties were signed, and Cillian is still recovering from the severe injuries he suffered in a battle. There was confusion about where true loyalties lay, the loves that existed which could not be easily expressed, and the natural concern of a teenager questioning everything about her life and the lives of those around her.

 

While it is difficult to describe what makes this such a good read, the momentum that draws the reader in, the real insight into the people involved. It is not necessary to have read the books that go before, but they will be irresistible when you have read this wonderful blend of life, love and more in a detailed setting of countryside, farms and fortifications. Sorley’s tale strikes at the heart of his identity and the actions of those around them, and a vivid deeply felt book is the result. I recommend it.

Oraiaphon by Marian L. Thorpe – a novella of The Empire on the edge of history

May 26, 2020

Oraiáphon – Marian L Thorpe

 

This is a novella of many things, diplomacy, greed and music, but the greatest one is love. Not the obvious kind of a whirlwind romance, but of sacrifice. If that seems a soft option, it is far from it; the sort of love in this short book is painful, hopeful and largely unseen. Following the story of an Empire and surrounding states, this fourth book in a series draws heavily on the themes, stories and characters dominating the books of the Empire, as told by one of the central characters, Lena. In this book, Lord Sorley tells the story of the diplomatic experience of the Empire being joined to another state, his own ambitions and concerns, and the illness of his greatest friend, Cillian. I believe this book can be read as a separate, even standalone book, if only to create an appetite for the earlier novels. It is so vividly written that it carries the reader along, on the one hand to discover what is going to happen, but also to revel in the brilliantly written characters. This book, in common with the earlier three books, is a sort of historical fantasy, with elements of Roman Empire history and language. There is a list of characters and of the unusual words used in the narrative, but also it is possible just to let the story take over. The imagination and construction of this narrative is impressive, and I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this book. 

 

The story opens with Sorley being told of his friend’s illness following wounds sustained in a huge battle. He has been representing his country in the court of another; but now he has been given permission to depart for “Wall’s End” where the new leader of the Empire is quartered with the wounded Cillian and his partner, Lena. Lena is pregnant, and is wearing herself sitting with Cillian, especially as hope for his survival seems slim. Sorley is horrified at the state of both of them. He has long been attracted to Cillian, but knows that the son of the previous Emperor’s one true love is Lena.  Therefore he faces the choice of comfort from a soldier servant, Druisius or Druise, who is aware of the situation. In addition Sorley is soon asked to help with the delicate negotiations between Casyn and a greedy Procurator who has arrived to settle the arrangements between the weakened Empire and Casil who provided the means to fight off threats to the Empire. He protests that he is only able to translate, he has not the skills to be a diplomat or a strategic advisor that Cillian has by experience and aptitude. Moreover, he soon realises that he must provide the support and calming music that is necessary in the Infirmary. Can his love and physical help Lena and Cillian survive this severe test?

 

I found this such an enjoyable book to read and become involved in, with its keen insights into diplomacy and statecraft. Moreover, I found it a fascinating resolution to various storylines which had emerged in the previous novels. It is a powerful and vivid read featuring memorable characters and a storyline which carried me into a world on the edge of history with its consistency. 

 

I really enjoyed this book, especially in the context of the previous three books of the trilogy which mainly proceeded it. I am eagerly awaiting the next book, “Empire’s Reckoning” which is due to come out soon.

I enjoy reading in a series in the background to the shorter and self contained books I usually review on this site. It appeals to my sense of completeness! I have read such vast series as “A Dance to the Music  of Time” in the past, and have kept the copies in case I feel like repeating the experience. Do you enjoy reading series of books beyond Harry Potter? I have also tackled a Dunnett series in the past as well as the Barsetshire books of Trollope and Thirkell. Have you any suggestions for further entertaining series of books?

Empire’s Exile by Marian L Thorpe – Lena’s story of a long and challenging journey

March 18, 2020

 

A tremendous final book in a stunning trilogy, this is a gripping and sometimes moving book in which a young woman has to find a new way of surviving. Following on from “Empire’s Daughter” and “Empire’s Hostage” this book goes seriously beyond an Empire with a strong resemblance to the Roman Empire into vastly new territory. These books present an alternative history which is nevertheless impeccable in its research and holds together brilliantly; it is a consistent tale in both its setting and characters. Lena has changed much over the preceding two books, from an older girl who loved and lost her partner Maya over the need to defend their women’s village from a seaboard attack. Not only did she learn to become an effective warrior in defence of her home village over a period of some days, but also she began to learn and appreciate the problems and possibilities of leadership, even when mistakes and regrets become inevitable. 

 

Lena is the heroine of a book which revolves around how she learns to survive in the most challenging physical circumstances, with an unfortunate and unfriendly companion.  This is the story of a journey into the unknown, because even where there appears to be a temporary sanctuary,there is always uncertainty and drama. It is the story of individuals in a setting that no one chooses, and where life and death are often balanced on the edge. I found that this book is the sort of novel that is full of so much suspense and drama that I could not wait to turn the page to discover the progress and fate of Lena and her associates. I was so pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this excellent book.

 

For the reasons that are outlined in the previous book, Lena is exiled into the unknown lands which lay beyond the known boundaries of the Empire and the lands of any known enemy; the only clue is in ancient writings known to a very scholarly few, which includes Cillian. Cillian is Lena’s only and unwilling companion in exile, an unfriendly man who has few practical skills when compared to Lena. Lena’s life has meant that she is skilled in hunting, fishing and some medical matters. As a soldier she knows only too well how to organise a watch for enemies, how to obtain water and food in unpromising circumstances and how to judge people. She has regrets and guilt about past actions, so when she does have feelings for someone it is not plain sailing in any sense. There is much drama in the journeys they undertake, and this is a continually fascinating read as a result.

 

I really enjoyed this book. It is far from a “woman in peril” book though Lena is frequently in danger; the difference is that she is continually the agent for change. This is (alternative) historical fiction at its best; a credible story, believable characters and a superb consistency of setting and action. This is not a determinely feminist book, but the fact that the main character is a woman who is at the centre of a very lively plot makes it so exciting. This is a truly remarkable book and well worth tracking down.

 

Meanwhile, as many activities and attractions close down, even I was persuaded into our garden! My usual job is picking up twigs and branches that may damage the mower when it does get down. Meanwhile, Husband did the planting and weeding and got very muddy. I suppose it is still only March! Here’s hoping for good weather wherever you are!

 

Empire’s Hostage by Marian L Thorpe – a historical fantasy with a powerful impact

February 12, 2020

 

A powerful and intense sequel to the impressive Empire’s Daughter, this book is a remarkable story of one young woman’s battle with an Empire and a kingdom. In a delicate balance between historical novel and fantasy, this precise and effectively written story of a challenging time in Lena’s life is remarkably full of suspense. In this second book of a trilogy there are moments of real cliff hangers when I quickly turned the pages to find out what happened next.  Lena has matured as a character and really developed as a Guard of The Wall, after her journey to find her partner, Maya. This novel stands alone as a story of a young woman in difficult circumstances, and I believe it could be enjoyed without having read the first book, as there is a careful creation of character. This is a book which is well constructed in its plot, and the characters have real presence. As with the first book, I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this special book.

 

The books opens with Lena being an active Guard on the Wall, which is the northernmost boundary of the Empire. She has moved on from any link with her former partner and her village of origin, as she has found that she is a capable and responsible soldier. While there are few women who are prepared to fight, Lena and others work alongside the men with equal living conditions. The battles between the Empire and the people of Linrathe to the north of the Wall have led to a stalemate in which both sides are struggling for food in an area which has been stripped of crops and wildlife. Despite having met and established a relationship with Casyn, the Emperor’s brother, she is still surprised that she is chosen as his representative. Together with a young man called Darel she is sent north to what looks as if it may be an educational establishment and a time of learning about not only her people but those nearby tribes or peoples that have posed a danger. This being Lena she soon finds herself in trouble with all sorts of people, and is put at risk in many ways.

 

This book may not be based on a recognised country’s history, but it has nevertheless taken a lot of research into horse care, riding practicalities, foods, clothes and many other small details that makes this fantasy so solidly written. I found this a really convincing and absorbing read and I found myself trying to read faster to find out what happens to Lena and those she cares for. Thorpe has achieved a very difficult task; constructing a world with laws, rules, expectations and internal logic. She does this by creating convincing characters, even if they only appear for a short space of time, and watching the details that make a solid world. I thoroughly recommend this book for all fans of historical fantasy fiction with a solid background and a great deal of adventure.  

Empire’s Daughter by Marian L. Thorpe – An alternative, historical way of life for women and men

October 11, 2019

 

This is the story of an Empire, communities and a woman. Told by the leading character, Lena, this is an epic fantasy which is also truthful to the emotions of individual’s facing challenges both similar and different to reality. Lena, her mother, sister, aunt and others all live in a village of women and girls of all ages, and boys under seven. Men are only permitted to enter the village and be with the women and sometimes their children at certain festival times. Otherwise they are soldiers, boys and men, guarding the edges of the Empire. 

 

The coastal village of Tivan is a self supporting community, with fishing, farming and hunting all undertaken by women and girls. The midwife is kept busy as women can become pregnant at Festival times, and the whole community assists with bringing up the children. Lena is seventeen, just finished her apprenticeship in sea fishing, and shares a boat and her life with her partner, Maya. The village is run by a democratic council of all the women, with three leaders. All is peaceful in a village and an Empire wide system that has run for ten generations. Sometimes Lena wants adventure, going further in her boat, but mainly she is satisfied with life, content in the known and traditional. This book so cleverly sets up the situation and details of the village and its inhabitants  that it becomes a historical novel, complex yet understandable, solid and completely engaging. I recommend this book as an excellent read for fans of historical fiction and those who enjoy an element of fantasy.

 

The real importance of this book is the demonstration that women can not only run a peaceful society, but also rise to a time of unprecedented crisis. After an establishing of the relationships and order with which life runs in Tivan, which details how everything is expected and calmly dealt with by the women, a new person in the village creates excitement and discussion. There are suggestions of a sort of Roman society with communal baths, an Empire of long standing, and a carefully organised society with a huge military element. The technology is also of the Roman era, with sail powered boats, scythes for harvest and crucially knives, archery and other hand weapons for battle. When danger threatens, the best way of proceeding is debated, and it is Maya’s decision to go into exile from the village which affects Lena’s life so profoundly. The training for warfare is exhaustively and well described, revealing extensive and detailed research. The various attitudes, abilities and challenges faced by the individuals in the story really come alive, and surprises and revelations among the detailed progress of close battle really involve the reader. 

 

I really enjoyed this book, and the character of Lena really comes alive through her mixed emotions and feelings. Her impetus to seek out Maya propels much of the book, as well as her loyalty to her village, family and friends. The other characters she encounters, such as Casyn, make her question the way things have been, and whether they have to as she discovers the Empire outside Tivan. The relationships between men and women, characterised by Casyn as “We live apart and die apart”, is at the centre of the novel, as well as the underestimation of women as fighters shown by some men. This examination of an alternative way of life made me, and I suspect others, reflect on the expectations of our society, and in particular relationships between women and the genders. The list of characters is a bit overwhelming in the start of the book, and I wonder if it is too detailed. That is a minor quibble with a book I found memorable and enthralling. I have been so glad to have the opportunity to read and review this novel, and would love to read the subsequent books mentioned in the start of Marion’s saga.