The Iron Maiden

The Iron Maiden by Resa Nelson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I received a free copy of this for review.

This is the second book in the Dragonslayer Series and I think it is just as good or even better than the first one, The Dragonslayer's Sword. The Iron Maiden continues the story of Astrid after she returns home to Guell to become the town's dragonslayer after the death of DiStephan. She initially wishes to remain through the winter months and return to blacksmithing instead of following the winter route of he dragons. But fate doesn't allow that and instead she embarks on another adventure.

Even though this is the second book in the series, it can be read without having read the first one. Many of the pertinent details from the first book are woven in nicely to this one. However, I've enjoyed reading them in succession.

Resa Nelson deals with some difficult and controversial issues through Astrid's journey. Women's rights and religious tolerance among others. I think she does a wonderful job of showing more than one side of these issues. She also shows that strong women throughout any culture and time have had a hard time being accepted especially those in male dominated jobs. I love how she shows that no issue is simply black or white, there are all shades of gray to any issue.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to continueing with The Stone of Darkness. I would recommend this to anyone who loves a good original fantasy.



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