Sword Dance

Did you ever read a book too quickly because you liked the characters so much and wanted to be sure that nothing terrible happened to them? That was my experience with Sword Dance. I immediately fell in love with both Damiskos and Varazda, and rushed through their story anxiously. I wanted someone to appreciate Damiskos' good heart and ability to lead despite his physical limitations, and I wanted someone to see Varazda as more than a eunuch and (former) slave. I knew they would have a HFN but was worried about at what cost. Fortunately, although the story is exciting and spiced with adventure, danger and fighting (oh those swords!), neither MC ends up in mortal peril, although Damiskos does almost get his heart broken several times (primarily because he underestimates his appeal). Long winded way of saying that A.J. Demas is quickly (after only 3 books) proving herself to be one of my favorite new authors, with a serious but light touch, a unique alternate ancient history world, and greatly appealing characters (including some serious bad-ass women). Not at all surprised that she comes highly recommended by [a:KJ Charles 19401099 KJ Charles https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-632230dc9882b4352d753eedf9396530.png], and I would also put her up there with another favorite new author, [a:Ursula Vernon 36276 Ursula Vernon https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1271095776p2/36276.jpg]/[a:T. Kingfisher 7367300 T. Kingfisher https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1547408383p2/7367300.jpg]. Can't wait for #2 in the series to continue to explore Dami and Varazda's separate pasts and their future together.