Content levels
Trigger warnings
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
Based on the troubadour culture that rose in Provence during the High Middle Ages, this panoramic, absorbing novel beautifully creates an alternate version of the medieval world. The matriarchal, cultured land of Arbonne is rent by a feud between its two most powerful dukes, the noble troubador Bertran de Talair and Urte de Miraval, over long-dead Aelis, lover of one, wife of the other and once heir to the country's throne. To the north lies militaristic Gorhaut, whose inhabitants worship the militant god Corannos and are ruled by corrupt, womanizing King Ademar. His chief advisor, the high priest of Corannos, is determined to eradicate the worship of a female deity, whose followers live to the south. Into this cauldron of brewing disaster comes the mysterious Gorhaut mercenary Blaise, who takes service with Bertran and averts an attempt on his life. The revelation of Blaise's lineage and a claim for sanctuary by his sister-in-law sets the stage for a brutal clash between the two cultures. Intertwined is the tale of a young woman troubadour whose role suggests the sweep of the drama to come.
Is A SONG FOR ARBONNE (by the author of the Fionavar Tapestry) appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 16 and up.
This historical fantasy contains war violence, political intrigue, and mature themes including religious persecution and cultural conflict over women's roles. Sexual content is moderate (not graphic), with references to adultery and romantic relationships.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, moderate sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include death, war, and political violence (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens interested in richly detailed medieval-inspired worlds with complex political drama and cultural conflict will be absorbed by this epic tale.