I read all sorts of fantasy books, though I have learned in recent years that I am less fond of the extremely dark grimdark stories (and horror). But one sub-genre that I have rarely picked up is anything that’s heavy on the faith-based end of things. It tends to get a bit preachy most of the time, which I don’t really enjoy. However, I picked up MH Woodscourt’s The Crane Maiden and was pleased to find that it was a story of hope and determination just as much as it was one about faith.
The Crane Maiden is a fantasy retelling/reimagining of the Joan of Arc story from history. It follows Jenai d’Arc, a teenage girl who has been hearing the Voice of Afallon since her sister died and she failed to stop it. This Voice directs her to seek out the Crane Prince, ruler of Fraelin, which is currently being invaded by the enemy Thargundians. Jenai leads his armies in an effort to repulse the invaders, guided by her faith and determination.
I thing the plot in this book was fairly straightforward, though I am quite familiar with the Joan of Arc story. I like the addition of the unicorn and dragon, and I think that the details of the army and the battle were quite well done. The writing flowed very nicely and there were never points in the story where my attention was snagged elsewhere or where I was waiting for something to happen.
As far as the characters go, Duke Alain is probably my favourite. I like his doubt, especially as it changes and morphs throughout the story. I would have loved to learn more about his background, how he ended up where he was, that sort of thing. I would also like a little more about the magic of this world, but it wasn’t hugely relevant to the story, so the lack of information isn’t a surprise.
Jenai herself is very well crafted. I will say that she feels a bit more archetypal than a human character. Her responses to everyone’s doubts or criticisms feel a bit too perfect to have come from a teenage girl, but to come from a figurehead (a saint, even) of faith? Yes, that fits quite nicely.
I am curious to see where the next book in this duology (I think it’s a duology) goes, as the historical events surrounding Joan of Arc did not end…particularly well for her.
Overall, an intriguing book with a sweeping plot and a story of faith and hope that grips and doesn’t let go!
