The Fantasy Books

The Black Jewels Series

by Bishop, Anne

Description

A landmark step in feminist fiction, this dark fantasy series is unlike anything you've ever read. Bishop takes the physical and typical differences between men and women, highlights rather than diminishes them, and creates a world in which they are acknowledged and accepted. Her work is dark, though. The sexuality is especially dark. It's more of a tool of power rather than meant to be a loving act of any kind. From pedophiles, rape, and incest to torture… it's pretty heavy. Janelle begins as a child, destined to become the greatest witch queen that's ever lived, and this is her twisted, powerful, painful crossing into that role. She is at times cute, at other moments creepy, and at still others downright scary. The fact that she is continually being rescued by the men in her posse knocks it down a few levels on this list for me, but it's touted as a great triumph in feminist fantasy, and it's well-loved by those who enjoy some seriously disturbing storytelling, so it can hang out.

About the Author

Bishop, Anne

Anne Bishop is an American author known for her works in the fantasy genre. She was born in New York in 1955.Bishop's most notable works include the "Black Jewels" series, which takes place in a world where magic is a part of everyday life and follows the story of a young woman named Jaenelle who is prophesied to be the Queen who will bring peace and unity to the Blood, and the "Others" series, which is a dark fantasy series about a world where supernatural beings such as vampires and shapeshifters rule over humans.Bishop's writing is known for its complex characters, intricate world-building, and exploration of themes such as power, relationships, and the consequences of violence. She has won several awards for her writing, including the Crawford Award in 2000 for "Black Jewels Trilogy" and the RT Reviewers' Choice Award in 2013 for "Written in Red."In addition to her writing, Bishop is also an artist and has created several illustrations for her novels. She continues to write and publish new novels and stories, and her works are enjoyed by fans of fantasy around the world.

Full Author Page →

Books in The Black Jewels Series

(10 books)

Other Books by Bishop, Anne

Booklists Featuring This Book

Best Romantic Fantasy Books

Romance in fantasy is a common theme. But what differentiates romantic fantasy books as a subgenre is how romance is a major part of the plot and the complexity of... Read more →

Top 25 Fantasy Books for Women

Some women want fantasy books that are different from those for men. Now, I know many women read the same fantasy as the boys and are fine with that, but... Read more →

Best Strong Female Heroine Fantasy Books

Whenever friends lament that there are no strong, realistic female leads in fantasy literature; I am astounded. Not that I'm surprised that there is a prolific amount of novels in... Read more →