Book Review: The Queen in Winter

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The Queen in Winter     Amazon US TPB Amazon US HC Amazon Canada TPB Amazon Canada HC
Claire Delacroix , Lynn Kurland , Sharon Shinn , Sarah Monette
Class/Genre:   Romance   Fantasy   [Short Stories]
Berkley, Feb 2006, $13.00

“A Whisper of Spring” by Lynn Kurland. Lothar kidnaps elfin Princess Iolaire. Human Symon attempts to rescue the female who haunts his dreams.

“When Winter Comes” by Sharon Shinn. Sosie believes she needs to keep her numinous nephew Kinnon and his mother, her sister Annie, safe as many want to use the youngster for selfish gain. However, she soon needs help; Darryn provides that assistance though Sosie wonders about his motive.

“The Kiss of the Snow Queen” by Claire Delacroix. Gerta the seer sets off on a quest to rescue Cai the sorcerer from the evil Cath Pulag. She receives mysterious aid from a spirit.

“A Gift of Wings” by Sarah Monette. Agido the mercenary protects her former lover Maur, but soon needs his help when someone is killed at an inn as she is the prime suspect.

These four romantic fantasies are fine tales with delightful lead protagonists who depend on one another to survive their respective quests. However, none of the fantasy realms are fully developed in spite of some characters having paranormal powers and using them. Still this is a fun time for fans who appreciate romances of a different sort.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner