Grave Mercy: Book 1 of His Fair Assassin Series [Paperback]

Sometimes, you find yourself in the mood for a historical fantasy book, you know? And that's how I came to pick up Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers off the shelves, after hearing nothing but great things about the book. To be honest, I also found out it was about nuns who were assassins and with that concept? I HAD to read the book! The brutality of the opening scenes drew me into the story immediately and ultimately, I thoroughly enjoyed the journey through Ismae's eyes.

Ismae is a young girl and daughter of St. Mortain or death himself, as he is perhaps better known, but it's not until she is taken in by the convent that she becomes an `angel of vengeance', slaying anyone who has been marked for death. After completing her initiation, she is given an assignment to go to court and find out who is plotting against the Duchess with instruction to take out the culprit.

In some ways, Ismae sounds almost heartless but she believes in her purpose and has ultimate faith in St. Mortaine. She came from humble beginnings with an abusive childhood but she has a silent strength which makes her a little bit kick ass. She's intelligent, eager to learn and eager to please the nuns, proving that she is worthy of being chosen. Ismae is not one dimensional however and can think for herself - in fact, when the nun's teachings are brought into question; it is Ismae who must choose to do what she has been instructed to do or do what she thinks is right. Head or heart if you will. Speaking of matters of the heart, it wasn't her intention to get involved with anyone, certainly she has been shunned her entire life because of her mark/scar and the implications of it but Duval quietly stole her heart and mine too. I adored the slow burn of the relationship between Ismae and Duval - at first they were non trusting strangers, then allies, friends and something much more. I truly thought Duval was a hero in every way and a swoonworthy one at that.

The interesting thing about Grave Mercy is that it is not until I finished reading and looked back, that I realised what a truly phenomenal book this is. It is exceptionally well written and beautifully executed. I enjoyed the fact that this book had a touch of the supernatural without going over the top and I loved the use of "olde" language and how, even if you'd never heard the word before, you could still easily figure out its meaning. The language used was a nice, constant reminder of the time period and added weight and authenticity to the voice.

This book is chock full of politics, power play, corruption, and betrayal and I enjoyed watching the mystery unravel before my eyes. Grave Mercy is not a rapid page turner, rather it is a book to be devoured slowly and deliciously like a fine wine. You'll be pleased to know that there is no cliffhanger and the book could stand alone quite nicely but it is to be part of a series and the next book is entitled Dark Triumph with no release date as of yet. Grave Mercy was a truly excellent read and a book I continue to think about. I will DEFINITELY be reading more from this series and I'm going to have to order the hardback for my collection.

For the nuns of St Mortain, life is a little different than the average nun. They are trained in the art of death, and deliver it to anyone found deserving by St Mortain, their patron saint and God. For this reason, Ismae is sent to attend the 15th century court of the Duchess of Brittany. The Duchess is a young girl who is beset on all sides by those who would betray her to the looming threat of an invasion by France, and Ismae must find out who the traitors are and dispatch them before they can do more harm.

Ismae has her crosses to bear. She must pose as the mistress of Duval, an important figure in the court who does not trust her one bit. Sadly for Ismae, Gavriel Duval is a man of honor, integrity, and someone who she just can't help but fall for, even though she has good cause to despise men. The two have to learn to work together and cast their suspicions aside to untangle the web of intrigue surrounding the Duchess' court.

Their is so much to love about this story; whether you enjoy light fantasy, historical fiction, tales of murder most horrid, or even romance. This has it all, and it is all written so well. I was initially concerned that there were too many political machinations, but R.L. LaFevers walked the line perfectly to keep me hungry for just another little clue about who the wretched traitor could be. The romance was perfectly pitched, building slowly in an Austen-like fashion, and reading those scenes was simply delicious. I think that this would appeal to fans of Maria V. Snyder, and particularly those that loved Poison Study (Book 1 in The Study Trilogy) (MIRA); the 'feel' of both books is similar.

The supporting cast of characters was rich and drew many a smile from me; I have hopes that a good number of them will return for the sequel, Dark Triumph, in spring 2013. I will definitely be making that a top reading priority!

I love the premise of this one and its a deep case of cover love. Before I start I will tell you the one thing I really didn't like about the book - the use of the word MAYHAP, it may or may not fit with the historical setting I do not know but I hated its use with a vengeance, saying that it was the only thing I didn't like.
Grave Mercy has a compelling story-line, well balanced characters, a fast, flowing plot with an interesting paranormal element alongside a fabulous romance.

Told in first person narrative from Ismae perspective. Ismae is a wonderfully complex character, suffering through a horrendous childhood at the hands of a physically abusive father and believing her mother never wanted her. Physically scarred from birth due to a herbal concoction her mother took during pregnancy, Ismae is rather timid with very little self confidence. Rescued by the local Herb Witch from an arranged marriage.

Ismae finds herself at the Convent of St Mortain, where she finds comfort and shelter for the first time in her life. The training as a Handmaiden gives Ismae confidence she hasn't possessed before. There are even lessons in the art of seduction, although Ismae avoids these like the plague which made me giggle out loud.

Initially Ismae serves the convent without question, although as a reader you question the ethics and credibility of what Ismae is told. The nature versus nurture debate can be seen in the way Ismae thrives in the convent. I really respected Ismae, her ability to be true to herself is an admirable quality and not always an easy choice to make. Her character development throughout the book provides a spectacular journey. The decision to be who you want to be rather than what others want you to be or expect you to be is not an easy one and can often be a painful process.

The way in which taking orders from other people is scrutinized within the plot as part of Ismae's development showed that you can not always believe what you are told by others. People are fallible and often have ulterior motives for their actions.

I know absolutely nothing about french history so I cannot comment as to the accuracy of the historical events portrayed. The historical setting did add dramatic tension to the plot with the intrigue and suspense, betrayal and conspiracies. Cloak and dagger tension, divided loyalties, patriotism, treaties and arranged marriages all add to the setting and imagery. Secrets, personal agendas and conspiracy theories are all hinted at within the narrative providing a lot of scope for the series to continue.

The romantic element within the book is what really made it for me. The chemistry between Ismae and Duval was electrifying. Both have had to overcome prejudice in their lives. They really do bring out the best in each other, they were literally made for each other.

I am really looking forward to Book 2 in the series, although not a direct sequel as it is told from a different characters point of view, I am hoping Ismae and Duval make an appearance. As well as the required answers to the outstanding questions in this book.