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Cover of The Lion's Eye

The Lion's Eye

Mary Gentle (2006)

SubgenreHistorical Fantasy
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingR
Pages (Standard (250-400))
SeriesIlario #1
Setting
CSM age18+
Goodreads3.48

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentExplicit
LanguageModerate

Synopsis

Abandoned and alone, the fosterling Ilario grows up as the King's Freak, surrounded by all the pomp, intrigue, and danger of the Iberian court. Fleeing a failed treacherous attack, Ilario crosses the sea to Carthage, where the mysterious Penitence shrouds the sky in darkness. There, a strange and awful destiny awaits the would-be painter, one that spans continents and kingdoms. Filled with intrigue, sex, and mystery, Ilario: The Lion's Eye is a stunning tale of secret histories and self-discovery. The adventure continues in Book Two: The Stone Golem.

The Lion's Eye: content & age rating

Intended for adult readers (18+).

This adult historical fantasy contains explicit sexual content, political violence including assassination attempts, and mature themes surrounding court intrigue and identity. The protagonist is described as 'the King's Freak,' suggesting exploration of otherness and marginalization.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, explicit sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include abandonment, violence, and on-page sex (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Adult readers who enjoy complex political fantasy with mature content will find an intricate tale of identity and destiny.

Tags

Literary FantasyCharacter-DrivenHistorical SettingPolitical Fantasy