Book Review: Daughter of the Blood by Anne Bishop

Daughter of the Blood
Author: Anne Bishop
Series: Black Jewels (Book 1)
Publication: Roc (March 1, 1998)

Description: Seven hundred years ago, a Black Widow witch saw an ancient prophecy come to life in her web of dreams and visions. Now the Dark Kingdom readies itself for the arrival of its Queen, a Witch who will wield more power than even the High Lord of Hell himself. But she is still young, still open to influence—and corruption.

Whoever controls the Queen controls the darkness. Three men—sworn enemies—know this. And they know the power that hides behind the blue eyes of an innocent young girl. And so begins a ruthless game of politics and intrigue, magic and betrayal, where the weapons are hate and love—and the prize could be terrible beyond imagining...

My Thoughts: DAUGHTER OF THE BLOOD is a fascinating dark fantasy about an ancient prophecy that is finally coming to fruition. Daemon Sadi, Lucivar Yaslana, and Saeton have all been waiting for hundreds of years.

Jaenelle is the potential Witch who can make things better and end the abuses practiced by the Queens who have gotten darker and darker. But when she makes her first appearance in the story, she is only a seven-year-old child who is in a terrible situation and who uses powers that are almost beyond comprehension to travel to many worlds.

Jaenelle is an intriguing character. She is young but already knows so much about evil and betrayal. She has a sweetness and a deep curiosity and a tremendous ability to love. She also has a deep anger at what is happening around her.

When she is twelve, Daemon meets her and recognizes that she will be his Queen. He's determined to protect her and shelter her which isn't easy for a man who is under control of one of the most evil and powerful Queens. But Daemon has powers of his own too which might be enough to keep this beautiful child safe.

The world building is intriguing as we see a society that is becoming more and more corrupt and more and more disconnected from the land. We see Queens who are quick to kill any potential rival which has the effect of diluting the power and magic. We see intrigue and treachery and a child who inspires those who love her to be better than they thought they could be.

I can't wait to read more in this series.

Favorite Quote:

"We are what we are. Nothing more, nothing less.There is good and evil among every kind of people. It's the evil among us who rule now."

I bought this one. You can buy your copy here.