Book: Troubled Waters and Royal Airs by Sharon Shinn
Genre: Fiction
Publisher: Ace Books
Publication date: 2010 and 2013
Pages: 312 and 257

Source: Purchased e-books

Introducing the fantasy kingdom of Welce

Summary: Troubled Waters and Royal Airs are the first two books of what, I imagine will be a five-book series, since there are five elements in this fantasy world.

In Troubled Waters, we’re introduced to the kingdom of Welce. In Welce, each person is given, at birth, three random blessings in one of five groupings based on the five elements of air, wood, fire, water, and earth. These blessings can be drawn at any time to help a person through his or her daily life. Zoe, our heroine, has coru (water) blessings and almost always draws coru blessings when she seeks guidance–guidance she needs after the death of her father, an unexpected move, and a brave action that surprises herself. But what would one expect when ‘surprise’ turns up as one of her blessings?

The second book, Royal Airs, begins five years after the first book ends. The drama of the first book has brought many changes to Welce, especially to the life of Princess Josetta. She has made the best of things, finding a mission for her life that is deeply satisfying to her elay (air) soul. An encounter with an intriguing man increases her hope for establishing the life she wants. Her desires, though, aren’t always top priority when the kingdom faces new challenges from foreign powers.

Continuing the story began in Troubled Waters

Thoughts: At a time when our home felt invaded by contractors, I turned to an author who never fails to soothe and calm me. The world of Welce, with its simple and beautiful spiritual practice, was as relaxing to me as a meditative retreat — but easier to achieve under the circumstances.

I’m looking forward to Book 3 in the series, Jeweled Fire, due out on November 3. Maybe I should start to plan my next home improvement project to coincide with its release.

Appeal: Troubled Waters and Royal Airs provide moments of peace during tumultuous times.

What authors do you choose at times when life feels like too much?