The Seal Queen by Sandra Saidak

By: Unknown on Sunday, December 29, 2013

Title:  The Seal Queen

Author:  Sandra Saidak

Published:   May 15th 2013 by Uffington Horse Press

Length:  287 pgs

Format:  ebook

Genre:  fantasy

Shelf:  review

Rating:  ★★★★

Synopsis from Goodreads:

Drawing on Irish folklore, The Seal Queen tells the story of Briah, an escaped slave who finds sanctuary, for herself and her unborn child, on an enchanted beach. There her life is filled with peace and contented solitude, the joys of motherhood, and even the possibility of love with a merman whose song haunts her dreams.

Briah’s magical world is shaken, however, when she discovers that her son is the long-awaited savior and future king of the roane (shape-shifting seals, and gentler cousins of the selkies). Briah wants to help these magical creatures, but she is unwilling to allow her son to become a pawn in their deadly schemes. When faced with the choice between sending her child to battle his diabolical father or allowing the roane to be exterminated, Briah insists on finding a third option.

My Review:

I found myself drawn into this tale right from the first, haunting sentence. Saidak’s enchanting writing keeps you entranced in this thrilling tale. She develops her world gradually, but fully, so that you feel like you’re exploring it alongside the main character. Her unique storyline is very captivating. It kept me guessing and thinking, trying to figure out what would happen next. At the same time it was a complexly put together tale, weaving many people, places, and events together seamlessly.

The wide variety of characters and character types in this story was a brilliant addition to the tale. All of the major players in this tale were well developed, giving the reader insight into their lives. I got to know these characters so well that I really found myself identifying with and feeling for them.

As a whole this was a brilliant fantasy tale that steps outside the mould and keeps you captivated throughout. I wouldn’t hesitate to read more by this fetching author.

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