The comment on the side of my profile states that this blog will review fantasy books, it may do that, but it may talk about my life and my travel plans as well. Unfortunately, I am not incredibly computer literate and can't work out how to change it.

The hardest thing about writing, is knowing where to start...

Fantasy books are my passion. They contain a kind of escapism that no other genre can create for me. I love the intrigue, the endless plot twists and the fantastical aspect but mostly I love a flawed protagonist. The realism of a character that is incredibly flawed, for me, maintains a some might say 'false' symmetry to our own society, no matter how fantastical the fantasy world is. The Kushiel's series by Jaqueline Carey then, are my absolute favourite set of novels.
Phedre, the main protagonist is flawed beyond belief. Her occupation; prostitution. Her goal; 'love as thou wilt'. Her main flaw, that she turns to her advantage, is that she gets off on painful sex. She manages to save her country, and live vaguely happily pursuing knowledge. Throughout the three novels she overcomes some serious adversity, and also manages to basically kick ass through intelligence and espionage. Carey writes her, as a role model in the fantastical world and this transcends through to modern day society. Is this what feminism was for? To be able to have an amazing protagonist, that is independent, powerful and does what she wants? I think so. She has the absolute power and knowledge to do anything, even speak the word of God... It's just amazing.
I could write about it for hours, the novels encompass so much historical context and religious context that is so so fascinating but it's late and I'm tired and this is my first ever blog so yes. Little gratuitous ramble about books is over for now :)