Review: Decent read
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 09 20, 2013
Raised in a small village which has no love for those of mixed race, Etan Dairan finds himself with nowhere to turn after the death of his father. Left with years of accumulated debt to settle, Etan parts with all of his belongings and everything he has ever known to move to the city of Kered in hopes of finding work. Fragile from a bout of sickness as a child, his options are limited. It is only a chance encounter after much bad luck that sees Etan contracted to a Master Artist. His role is simple - he is to be Master Tallisk's newest canvas.Etan finds himself thrust into the unfamiliar role of a courtier whose sole purpose is to flit about in displays of living art for the pleasure of the ruling class. Sought after not only for his beauty but for his influence in powerful circles, Etan must tread carefully - political unrest is brewing in the city and the Adorned are a symbol of the upper class' frivolity.Against the background of Etan's profession, this book is more a story of blossoming love.  As a very young and inexperienced man, Etan has much to learn about himself and what he wants in life. What he does know is that he is fascinated by his master, Roberd Tallisk. Nevertheless, an Adorned is dependent on his master. Dare Etan pursue his feelings and jeopardize his new position?The Adorned is a throwback to traditional fantasy - a genre I haven't payed much homage to of recent years but have always loved. This book was no different. After a few chapters, I was already kicking myself for not picking it up sooner!I don't think it would be possible for me to review this book without pointing out how much it reminded me of Jacqueline Carey's world in Kushiel's Legacy. I would be stunned, in fact, if Tristan hadn't read Carey's work. There are just so many similarities; limned courtesans effecting political influence, easy sexuality and a romance between master and his servant etc. I immediately thought that this story could even be interpreted as a fanfic of the relationship between Carey's Anafiel Delaunay and Alcuin no Delaunay.I don't think that associating the two books is in any way a negative thing. In fact, I think it is high praise indeed, considering how much I love Kushiel's Dart (If you haven't read it, get on it. It's excellent). As for The Adorned, I would recommend it to those looking for a romance in a non-contemporary setting. Though there are paranormal elements in the story, they are few and far between. So don't let the paranormal-ness sway your decision to read either way.The romance was lovely. I very much enjoyed the ending. This story does not have a fairy-tale ending, but will leave you warm and fuzzy nevertheless.