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The Blue Sword

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The Blue Sword

Written by: Robin McKinley

Narrated by: Diane Warren

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About this listen

From the New York Times bestselling author of Sunshine is the Newberry Award-winning classic novel that has enthralled listeners for decades.

This is the story of Corlath, golden-eyed king of the Free Hillfolk, son of the sons of the Lady Aerin.

And this is the story of Harry Crewe, the Homelander orphan girl who became Harimand-sol, King’s Raider, and heir to the Blue Sword, Gonturan, that no woman had wielded since Lady Aerin herself bore it into battle.

And this is the song of the kelar of the Hillfolk, the magic of the blood, the weaver of destinies …

Classics

Epic

Fantasy

Heartfelt

What the critics say

“This is a zesty, romantic heroic fantasy with an appealing stalwart heroine, a finely realized mythical kingdom, and a grounding in reality that enhances the tale’s verve as a fantasy.”—Booklist

Most relevant

I haven't read this for a very long time and decided to do the audiobook this time so I wouldn't miss anything.

This story is quite entertaining. This time I noticed that the main character is quite passive in the book. Everything just happens to her, and she's also really good at everything she tries - although that could be because she's drugged, which I definitely did not remember. But, she's still pretty cool and I always like strong heroines.

The setting is well-described and makes you feel like you're there. There are strong themes of colonialism and its effects in this book as it's basically an alternate Victorian England that Harry comes from.

The characters are all interesting. Corlath is super awesome still - that at least hasn't changed for me. Even if he does kidnap the main character. The ending is satisfying and leaves you with a feeling of accomplishment and peace - the author nicely ties some loose ends up.

As for the audiobook - this was recorded early 1990s by a narrator with a strong Boston(?) accent (think of how they say "horse" as "hoss" and it might drive you a little crazy as that's one of the most common words in the book). It wasn't my favourite audio recording but her voice was peaceful at least.

I think it appeals a lot more to a young adult reader than a 35-year-old but that being said, I still really enjoyed it. It was written in 1982, back when you had to be pretty good to get young adult fantasy published. I've loved all of Robin McKinley's books that I've read and am a fan.