Mercedes Lackey is long known for novels playing with concepts of magic and power. This novel, the first of a series focusing on elemental magics, has all the aspects of a fairy tale while presenting a very likeable heroine.



Rose is a newly orphaned, brilliant classical scholar in turn of the century (1900ish) America, when women weren't usually scholars at all. Destitute, she accepts via advertisement a commission to be a governess - except upon arriving, she finds no child. Rather her master needs her help in research - and she speaks to him through a speaking tube, never meeting him face to face.



That strangeness combined with the mysterious servants, brand new wardrobe and luxurious accomodations put Rose into a Cinderella fantasy.



Eventually, she discovers her employer is searching for a spell to help him undo his failed werewolf tranformation, something that left him permanently half-beast. Needless to say, a romance is due to develop, not to mention the awakening of Rose's dormant magical powers (note - this book came out BEFORE Harry Potter!). But there are also dangers... forces that would prefer to see the beast eliminated.



I liked The Fire Rose's approach to magic immensely - it's believable and easy to grasp. As is Lackey's wont there is a darker side of magic too, and her explorations of the power gained through pain are a little graphic for me. They are not quite R rated, but they can be a little much, especially when discussing the child prostitutes that form sacrificial victims to the enemy. So be warned.



However, Rose is a likeable woman, and the book is an excellent, flowing, smooth read. The ending is happy, but is NOT a fulfillment of everyone's quest - making it more real.



Love this book - great introduction to Lackey as well.

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Created Jan 21, 2003 at 6:03am • Submit your own review...