MAD KESTREL

Author: Misty Massey ISBN: 9780765318022 3/2008 PIRATE FANTASY Publisher: TOR

In a world where infants with magical powers are torn from their parents to be raised by the mysterious and powerful Danisoba, who have a monopoly on magic, Kestrel has managed to keep her abilities concealed—and herself free. First hiding in back alleys as a street urchin, she hid when they killed her parents, and then served as a young tavern maid before escaping to sea, where magic is cancelled by water. Now an adult, as the quartermaster of a pirate ship, Kestrel loves the freedom of living on the seas. But her way of life could end if anyone on board learns her closely guarded secret—that she has magical control over the wind. One day a black ship appears, and her life changes. Its captain is a handsome rogue of whom Kestrel is strangely, constantly aware. When Kestrel’s captain is led into a trap and is arrested, she gathers her crew and sets sail in relentless pursuit. . . .

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

MAD KESTREL is pure escapism. Fun, fast-paced and filled with pirates, magic and seafaring lingo, it is a quick, enjoyable read.

Kestrel is a strong heroine whose background is less than wonderful. An orphan, she grew up on the streets and obviously learned at an early age to take care of herself. By the time of this story she is aboard ship, hiding powers she knows will be best used if they go unnoticed. Kestrel is thrown into a maelstrom of intrigue and mystery, forced into a seafaring escapade that includes rescuing the ship's captain, Captain Binns.

The romance isn't high in this tale but the action/adventure factor is, so it is definitely worth reading. I was surprised by the layers of mystery, and the uncovering of secret upon secret, time and again. If you're okay with reading a story that isn't exceptionally deep, emotionally gripping or overwhelmingly romantic, this will work for you. I loved the "aye"s and other pirate jargon, and felt surrounded by a cast of sweaty men who were more comfortable at sea than on land.

MAD KESTREL is a swashbuckling tale that, if my guess is correct, may lead to more adventures of the same sort. I sincerely hope it does, and that Kestrel resurfaces in another tale. Ms. Massey's written a delightful character, and I would love to see Kestrel sail again!

Kay James