State of Sorrow

Sorrow is born the day her brother, heir to the Ventaxis throne, dies. She inherits a nation dedicated to grief. Her mother is dead, her father has given himself to a drug induced state of mourning. Joy, laughter, enjoyment, art, games are all forbidden. All Sorrow knows is a grief that is not hers. It is time for change – but she is facing a cunning enemy. Is she strong enough? What will be the price of winning?

Melinda Salisbury has already made her name for creating dark and dangerous world with her debut trilogy The Sin-Eater’s Daughter. This new novel does not disappoint. Salisbury’s richly imagined world will draw the reader in a willing participant in events. There is jeopardy aplenty – and a twist to ensure interest never flags. Sorrow is a strong character determined to break free from the constraints of her situation – but choice brings consequences; as does a lack of experience. The journey to adulthood is a familiar theme in fantasy, and here Salisbury creates a lively girl, a recognisable teen, making that journey and facing the uncomfortable realisation that growing up is not simple nor an ideal. It may, indeed, involve betrayal and compromise. The story is not over – fans will eagerly await the next instalment.