Fate’s Bane

Ignyte Award winner Clark (the Magic of the Lost series) mixes Iron Age politics with love and the magic of the fens in this well-executed fantasy. Agnir, firstborn child of Garadin Clan Fein, was given by her father to the Chief of Chieftains, Pedhri Clan Aradoc, to keep their clans from war. Raised as a ward of Clan Aradoc, Agnir finds first an ally and then a lover in Pedhri’s daughter, Hadhnri. One afternoon the two escape to the magical Baneswood, legendary domain of the trickster luck-hound, and come across a spring, where they pledge an oath to each other with the sweet water. Though Clan Aradoc has plans for Hadhnri that Agnir can be no part of, the oath leaves the two girls with a sideways blessing: when they craft leatherwork together, they can imbue their pieces with magic that may either protect the bearer or curse them. As Clan Aradoc flourishes, hungry eyes fall on their bounty, threatening the fragile peace. Soon, the lives of all depend on Agnir and Hadhnri’s gifts. Clark’s skill for Viking saga-craft and her clear affection for her sapphic warrior heroines combine into an unforgettable doomed love story. Fans of Clark’s longer works will not be disappointed. Agent: Mary C. Moore, Kimberley Cameron and Assoc. (Sept.)