Dark Triumph

Starred review from February 25, 2013
In this electric sequel to Grave Mercy, LaFevers tells the story of another 15th-century “handmaiden to Death” from the convent of St. Mortain, Lady Sybella. Raised in terror by her father, the monstrous nobleman D’Albret, Sybella was barely sane when she entered the convent. Years later, still filled with rage, she has returned home to spy on the traitorous D’Albret and foil his attempt to kidnap and forcibly marry his liege, the young Duchess of Brittany. Sybella must navigate a complex web of political subterfuge, violence, and self-hatred to stay alive, while secretly assassinating those traitors whom the god Mortain has “marqued” for death (“When I see a dark shadow covering his chest, my heart soars. He is marqued! This makes everything so much simpler”). Ordered to save the life of the ugly Beast of Waroch, a knight loyal to the duchess, Sybella soon ends up on the run from her father’s vengeance. Brimming with powerful emotions, thrilling sword fights, and accurate period detail, this tightly plotted tale will enthrall readers of romantic historical fantasy. Ages 14–up. Agent: Erin Murphy, Erin Murphy Literary Agency.

August 1, 2013

Gr 9 Up-Sybella left her father's home and received refuge in the convent of St. Mortain, where the nuns serve Death and train his assassins. She is a skilled assassin and trained in the art of seduction. After believing she has left the torment of her past life behind, the convent sends her home with the promise that she will be able to kill the man who raised her. Unfortunately, he still does not bear the Mark of Death and Sybella is torn between her training and her emotions. She knows that her father is evil and should die, but without the Mark she doesn't want to proceed. The second title (2013) in the series features a gripping story and strong characters that listeners will both love and hate. LaFevers takes the dark times of 15th-century France and adds love, romance, and magic. Although this is a sequel to Grave Mercy (2012, both Houghton Mifflin) in both story and timing, Ismae, who was the main character in the first book, has a small role here, and Sybella is the main character. These handmaidens to Death are fascinating and powerful. Angela Goethals' narration brings the story alive beyond the written word. Her pacing is perfect and her breathlessness during poignant segments makes listeners feel the same sensation. Fans of fantasy and historical fiction will enjoy this audiobook.-Elizabeth L. Kenyon, Merrillville High School, IN

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.