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The element of fire

The element of fire

FantasyHigh Fantasy
Pages
324
Published
1993
Language
English

Synopsis

The kingdom of Ile-Rien faces danger from both magical threats and political schemes. Captain Thomas Boniface, Queen's Guard and former lover of Ravenna, must uncover allies and enemies in a deadly game to protect the Dowager Queen and her realm. He wonders if his strength alone can stand against the power of fayre magic.

Prose complexity
7/10

Vibe

TenseMysteriousAdventurous
Court IntrigueReluctant Hero

Genres

Fantasy High Fantasy Science Fiction

About the author

M
Martha Wells

Martha Wells (born September 1, 1964, in Fort Worth, Texas) is an American writer of science fiction and fantasy. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a B.A. in anthropology in 1986. Her first novel, The Element of Fire (1993), opened the Ile-Rien sequence; she has since written the Books of the Raksura, the Emilie young-adult novels, tie-in fiction for Star Wars and Stargate, and the standalone fantasy Witch King. She is best known for The Murderbot Diaries, beginning with the novella A...

Characters

Thomas BonifaceProtagonist
RavennaSupporting
Dowager QueenSupporting
All characters in The element of fire

Frequently asked questions

  • Is The Element of Fire a standalone novel?

    This novel is the first book in the Ile-Rien series, introducing the world and characters that are further explored in subsequent books. While it tells a complete story within itself, it sets the stage for a larger narrative arc.

  • How does The Element of Fire connect to Martha Wells' other works?

    The Element of Fire is part of Martha Wells' earlier fantasy work, showcasing her characteristic blend of intricate world-building and character-driven plots. Readers familiar with her later series, such as The Murderbot Diaries, will find a different tone and magic system here, but the underlying craftsmanship in storytelling is consistent.