Natasja Hellenthal’s The Queen’s Curse reviewed by fellow author Rob Ross.
This ebook is Hellenthal’s first novel, and it shows real promise. It tells the story of two strong women: Artride, Queen of Ceartas; and Tirsa, Commander of the Seventh Company. Tirsa begs the Queen to spare the life of her young brother, who faces execution for having innocently violated one of the countless commandments of the Law Book. But in Ceartas, the law is not merely harsh and unyielding; it is cursed. Whether royalty or commoner, all are forced to obey, with no room for mercy or equity.
In a desperate effort to save Tirsa’s brother, the Queen and her Commander set off to find the Sorceress of Dochas, a beautiful and apparently immortal witch who may hold the key to breaking the curse. Along their journey, Artride and Tirsa learn each other’s secrets, and come to know one another as far more than merely lord and liege.
The Queen’s Curse is a captivating fantasy with some beautiful imagery. In a lyrical style, Hellenthal focuses upon her main characters, and takes her time in allowing their lesbian relationship to develop. As with many ebooks, parts of the novel could have benefited from tighter editing, but it is an interesting tale, and I look forward to reading her future work.
Rob Ross, Author of “Juggler’s Blade”
