Available Dec 8th, 2011 - Hardcover
Don't let the title of the book confuse or scare you off. `The Hermetica of Elysium' is the first book in the Elysium Texts Series, written by new author Annemarie Banks. For those who aren't familiar with the term `hermetica', it is a series of secret texts from various authors or teachers that contain and discuss ideas regarding philosophy, nature, and the divine, meant to enlighten those who read it.
As the daughter of a fallen princess who was sold into slavery to a wealthy merchant, Nadira has learned many things. Chief among them is the ability to read, which is uncommon for most men in late 15th century Barcelona, even those who are born to a higher station. Taken against her will from the only home she has ever known in order to decipher a dangerous text, Nadira must accept her fate and trust that the men who have taken her will do her no harm.
In the journey to avenge his brother's death, Lord Montrose has sworn to protect Nadira if she helps him translate the hermetica and stop it from falling into the wrong hands. What he didn't count on was falling in love with her. Together, Nadira and Lord Montrose must make the best of a number of bad situations in order to survive and fulfill their quest.
Annemarie Banks has delivered a book rich in detail and history. The supernatural plot is enhanced by the historical details, but only if you like books that have a base in historical facts. I enjoyed the interwoven mystery and romance of the main characters, but really enjoyed all the other players as well. Nadira begins as a servant and blossoms into a powerful woman with exposure not only to her protector, but to those who can appreciate her unique gifts and help her world-view expand - her character is the most transformed throughout the book. I can't wait to see what new dangers the sequel will bring, and how they will affect Nadira's relationship with Lord Montrose.
`The Hermetica of Elysium' is available for purchase December 8th, 2011 from Knox Robinson Publishing.
