Shadow Magic (2009)

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From Publishers WeeklyStarred Review. This entertaining sequel to 2008's fantasy epic Havemercy extends Jones and Bennett's successful blend of cultural diversity and social commentary into postwar diplomacy. After defeating the Ke-Han Empire, loosely based on Japan's shogun tradition, the kingdom of Volstov, reminiscent of imperial Rome, sends an odd peace delegation to the Ke-Han capital, which is reeling from defeat and the consequent ritual suicide of its emperor. Quirky magician Caius Greylace and brusque General Alcibiades present Volstov's view of the convoluted political intrigue that ensues, while the appealing young Ke-Han prince Mamoru and his ultra-loyal personal servant Kouje flee the wrath of Mamoru's brother, the insane new emperor Iseul. Deft characterizations even of minor players, broad humor, convincing dialogue and sure-handed timing, especially in the dueling scenes, make this novel an outstanding example of world-building and good old-fashioned fun.Review"An absolute charmer of a book: at once exciting, romantic, and funny."—Peter S. Beagle, author of The Last Unicorn "These ladies write like a house on fire, delivering fantasy's most pleasant surprise since Temeraire himself took wing in 2006...An impressive debut."—SFReviews.net “Delivers plenty of thrilling action.”—_Booklist_ “A unique and imaginative blend of epic fantasy, steampunk, humor, and heroism.”—SF Crowsnest.com Biography From Wikipedia - Jaida JonesJaida Jones is an American fantasy author. Her most prominent work is the 2008 fantasy novel Havemercy, written with coauthor Danielle Bennett.Jones is a student of Barnard College majoring in East Asian languages and cultures. Before becoming a published author Jones co-wrote a Harry Potter fan fiction story called "The Shoebox Project". She met Bennett in a Livejournal thread and the two started writing a novel together. The resulting novel, Havemercy, was picked up by Random House for an advance of $30,000 and published in 2008.