Lady Henterman's Wardrobe

February 5, 2018
Maresca’s second Streets of Maradaine novel (after The Imposters of Aventil) features a complete and consistent fantasy world populated with lively characters. The denizens of the eponymous neighborhood have mostly recovered from the disastrous fire that was intended to drive them out. Though some have rebuilt businesses and moved on with their lives, others, like Asti Rynax, who lost his wife and daughter, still long for revenge. An investigation reveals that Lord Nathaniel Henterman, the Earl of Hinton Hollow, was behind the crime, but bringing him to justice will require more risk, as commoners can’t usually challenge nobles. Asti and his team plot to infiltrate Henterman’s household and find incontrovertible evidence of his participation in the fire. Liora Rand—Asti’s former partner, lover, and betrayer—is already there and playing a dangerous long game, undercover as Lady Henterman. Pulling this off means putting uneasy trust in Liora while Asti’s team questions his leadership. Meanwhile, a contentious local election and rival gangs cause trouble back home in Maradaine. Fans of the series will welcome this enjoyable return to its colorful setting.