A Sorcerer's Treason

Sarah Zettel is already an established author of science fiction, having won the Locus Award for Reclamation. This new work, the first of a trilogy, is fantasy fiction of outstanding quality. The novel opens in 1899 at the Sand Island lighthouse on Lake Superior. Lighthouse keeper Bridget Lederle has had premonitions since she was a child, and when the vision of a small craft foundering in the storm awakens her she responds immediately. The handsome stranger rescued from the lake exerts a mysterious force over Bridget and her visions become frightening. This shipwrecked sorcerer, Kalami, has come from another world to take Bridget back with him to the Eternal Empire of Isavalta. There she will have strong magical powers, which could save the enchanted empire from ruin. Drawn to Kalami, but cautious because of past hurts, Bridget wonders if she is already bewitched. Lighthouse duties have exposed her to hardship and loneliness and she has borne and lost a child out of wedlock. Shunned by the judgmental folk of Bayfield, Bridget has been denied compassion and acceptance for too long. She succumbs to temptation and leaves bleak reality for a romantic world where she will be respected and empowered. On the journey she starts to mistrust even her own senses as horrifying creatures and malevolent magic delay her. Rival factions vie for her magic talent and Bridget's loyalties are tested to the full in the struggle for supremacy in Isavalta. Allusions to Russian and oriental folklore and fairytale are skilfully woven into the narrative, thus enhancing the magical atmosphere. With its intriguing plot, excellent descriptions of real and imagined lands and sumptuous details of dress and courtly life, Zettel's move into fantasy fiction should delight imaginative readers. (Kirkus UK)