Wednesday 22 January 2020

Twelve Kingdoms Reread: Negotiation - Book Review

Next up in my chronological reread is the short story Negotiation.

I must say that I'd advice people who are new to the world and series not to start with this one, but to read it after The Mark of the Tala, as I think you'll enjoy it more that way.

My review might have slight spoilers.


Negotiation (The Twelve Kingdoms 0.5)
by Jeffe Kennedy


What is it about:
A wounded warrior trapped by the sorceress who knows him better than he does himself…

General Uorsin escapes the last devastating battle, only to find himself alone on a mountain, feverish and no closer to finding the paradise that drives him on. Salena, greatest shapeshifter and magic-worker of her people, springs the trap she’s set to protect her land—and to prevent the ravager Uorsin from ever reaching it.

Together, they spend a night setting the terms that will determine not only the rest of their lives, but the fates of the peoples of the Twelve Kingdoms—and the thirteenth.


What did I think of it:
This short story is about the two people who shaped the heroines of the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy as well as the future of the Twelve Kingdoms. And to be honest: I don't like either of them.

I'm not saying I don't love this story. It's beautifully written and gives a really perfect glimpse of what set things in motion, as well as giving insight in Uorsin and Salena. I loved seeing how it all began.

These two are stubborn both in their own way. Salena is a strong woman, willing to sacrifice herself for her land, but she has no compassion or sympathy for people who aren't as strong. Uorsin powerhungry and greedy, and he doesn't care about the lives of those who stand between him and his goal. It was interesting to see them collide and fight for control.

All in all this is a great prequel that gives you that extra bit of information about the events that lead to The Mark of the Tala and all that comes after.

Notes on rereading: It's interesting to see Salena through her own eyes instead of the eyes of people who look up to her.

Why should you read it:
It's a really cool prequel story to the Twelve Kingdoms.


buy links

Next: The Mark of the Tala

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