Review: Becoming My Favorite Series!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 05 15, 2013
Enjoyed this sequel very much.  It is almost a stand-alone book since the author actually retells Inzared's life, as depicted in the first book of the series, but I suggest you experience Inzared, Queen of the Elephant Riders first.  As a (ha, ha) self-appointed member of the "Gypsy Police,"  I try to comb through potential stereotypes.  My great-grandmother and grandmother were drabarnis, Gypsy herbalists and "fortunetellers." The only objection I have to the word "fortuneteller" is that the Romanes word "dukker" has a double meaning: making up fortunes to earn money.  As healers, we are trained to do no harm.  That would include being very careful when reading cards, tea leaves, palms and interpreting dreams.  So we don't call it "fortunetelling," we call it "advising," because we would never harm the psyche or the physical body. However, it is an accepted word and gives a better idea of the nature of the book so I understand its use. The author does a lovely job in explaining the properties  of some herbs and their therapeutic use in healing.  I grew up in Philly, pure cement, no lawns, so all my knowledge was in the employment of pre-dried herbs from vendors.  Since the second book of the series took place in a different venue from the first book, there is room for different characters and other situations.  It was very exciting at times and really gave an idea of what it was like to travel the mountains in pre-Civil War days.  The third novel promises to be just as exciting since it will take place in another venue with (I'm guessing)  more new characters added.  For a charming yet hardy heroine, I recommend the Inzared books!