Kushiel's Chosen By RandomWoman on Jan 25, 2008 - Updated Oct 15, 2011

Kushiel's Chosen is the second book in Jacqueline Careys' Kushiel's Legacy series. As much as I love this author and enjoyed the first book in the series the second book didn't quite live up to my expectations. Don't get me wrong, it was a really enjoyable book, I just felt it could have been a bit better.

This book was, once again, told through the eyes of Phedre, a courtesan destined to find pleasure in pain and humiliation. BDSM and fetish themes were explored again and there was a good deal more political intrigue as Phedre searched for her nemesis Melisande. Phedre's choice to return to the life of a high priced courtesan deeply offended her protector and lover which led to several great scenes of romantic tension.

That part of the plot was fantastic but towards the end of the novel several characters and plots were introduced which I felt took away from the main plot. Some of it felt like flush and I found myself hurrying to get through those chapters so that I could return to the 'good stuff'. If you are a Jacqueline Carey fan or interested in the series Kushiel's Chosen is a must read in order to follow the rest of the series but be prepared for some long, drawn out, chapters.