The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold

This entry is part [part not set] of 3 in the series The Chalion Universe

Book Review: 3 Treasure Boxes
First Book in The Chalion Universe
Publisher: Blackstone Audio, Inc. (July 15, 2004,) Audible Audio Edition,Listening Length: 18 hour(s) and 27 min., ASIN: B0002P0DGE

There is a curse on the Royal family of Chalion, which is slowly destroying the country.  Lupe dy Cazaril, an unlikely knight who was betrayed and sold into slavery has escaped and is seeking peace.  He is lead to his old noble patroness, who just happens to be the Grandmother of the young Prince and Princess, with hopes that she will help him.  Instead he gets drawn into not only discovering the curse, but being guided by the Gods to remove it.

Lois McMaster Bujold has written numerous Science Fiction and Fantasy books and series including The Vorkosigan Saga, The Chalion Universe Series and the The Sharing Knife Series. The Curse of Chalion is the first novel in The Chalion Universe.  This is a fantasy book, but not in the traditional sense.  There are no dragons, elves, etc but there is limited magic, demons and the personal involvement of the Gods. The book takes place in a society similar to that of Spain in the 15th century. The story is told in a third person narrative, primarily from Cazaril’s point of view.

Since the story revolves around nobility similar to that of Spain in the 15th century, it took me a while to get use to the names and titles of the characters.  But once I did, I was hooked on both the plot and the characters.  Cazaril, makes a great hero, he is kind, intelligent and subtle. The details of the storytelling were captivating.  I loved Cazaril’s descriptions of his various adventures.

I enjoyed this book, the story has a good build, leading up to a great ending.  This is a standalone book, but since it is part of the Chalion Universe, I am interested to see what else will happen in this universe. I recommend The Curse of Chalion, it is an interesting and unique story with a satisfying ending.

 

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4 thoughts on “The Curse of Chalion by Lois McMaster Bujold”

  1. You made me want to read it. I notice at amazon that most people gave it 5 stars, yet you gave only 4. I suppose this means you’re not overhyping it just to get people to buy it, but what held you back from giving it full marks?

    1. I am glad you enjoyed my review and found it helpful. For me a 5 star book, involves a story that is so exciting and captivating that I can not put the book down. I found The Curse of Chalion to be very good, but not exceptional. I hope this answers your question, I have given a few books a 4 Treasure Box rating, which is the equivalent of a 5 star rating. If you are interested in checking these out, look on my site under the page: 4 Treasure Boxes for a listing of these books.

      Take care,

      LInda

      https://books-treasureortrash.com

  2. An enjoyable and very fair review – but maybe I’m biased because I’m a big Lois fan and really enjoyed the Chalion series… Hope you enjoy the others – you’re in for a treat, in my opinion.

    1. I am glad you enjoyed my review. I am contemplating reading the next book in the series, The Hallowed Hunt, have you read this book? Which book in this series did you like the best? Also, have you read The Sharing Knife Series? If not, you should give them a try they are great books. Finally, have you read any of the Vorkosigan Saga?

      Take care, Linda

      https://books-treasureortrash.com

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