Fire ~ Paperback ~ Kristin Cashore

From the deft characterisation to the gripping story, the fast-paced action to the evocative prose, this is one of the strongest fantasy novels of the year. Set in a world of stunningly beautiful, exceptionally dangerous monsters, Fire is one of the most dangerous monsters of all - a human one. Marked out by her vivid red hair, she's more than attractive. Fire is mesmerising. But with this extraordinary beauty comes influence and power. People who are susceptible to her appeal will do anything for her attention, and for her affection. They will turn away from their families, their work, and their duties for her. They will forget their responsibilities to please her …and worse, crush nations, neglect kingdoms and abuse their power. Aware of her power, and afraid of it, Fire lives in a corner of the world away from people, and away from temptation. Until the day comes when she is needed - a day when, for her king, she has to take a stand not only against his enemies, but also against herself … Reviews " . . vivid storytelling, strongly realized alternate world, well-drawn characters, convincing fantasy elements, gripping adventure scenes and [a] memorable love story. " -- Booklist "A jewel-toned companion to Graceling (2008) inverts the trope of the exotic, gifted, irresistible fantasy heroine. Every species in the Dells has its impossibly attractive "monster" counterpart. Fire, last of the human monsters, must constantly use her mind-altering abilities to protect herself from the frenzied desire and resentful distrust of man and beast alike. Though her father used his powers to corrupt the kingdom, political tumult leads the ruling family to seek her aid, dispatching the one member strong enough to shield his thoughts. But the subtle intrigues of palace plots and even the sickening horrors of open warfare are vehicles to total immersion into Fire's character, and her experiences of crippling pain, guilt, fear, grief and-even more devastating-the fragile unfurling of trust, friendship and love. For this is a love story, not just a romance (although that as well, surpassingly sweet). As Fire journeys from her isolated home to slowly integrate herself into a wider community, she tentatively, tenderly, passionately falls in love with a family, a city, a kingdom, with the very contradictions that make them human-and, at the last, with her own place among them. Fresh, hopeful, tragic and glorious." Kirkus Reviews Author Biography Kristin Cashore is an exceptional new voice in the fantasy genre. She lives in Florida.