The Silken Shroud (Silken Magic Book 2)

The second book of the dazzling Silken Magic series, set in the mythical kingdom of Tyrrhia, where courtly politics, magic, and the silk trade intersect.Romani magic had gifted the princess Alessandra with the blessing of the Fairy folk. So when death claimed her at the White King’s Court in Tyrrhia, not only her own clan and the man she loved, Maggiore Mandero di Montago, but the Fairy folk, too, cried out for justice and revenge. For Alessandra’s corpse had been stolen—bound by spells to entrap her soul—so her energy could be used to work dark magic. If her body wasn’t found and her soul wasn’t set free within a year, she would be transformed into a creature of evil, the goodness within her completely consumed. Alessa is held by a master of the dark arts, a man who has a high position in the Church and who might yet call upon powerful allies for support. And even with the magic of the Rom and the Fairy folk to aid him, Mandero would be in terrible jeopardy as he sought to find and free Alessa from her earthly prison. Yet he must try at all costs, for the stakes are far higher than the loss of one soul, no matter how beloved. If the enemy’s plans cannot be overturned, all Tyrrhia might be plunged into a religious war that could see an end to the last stronghold of peace, tolerance, and true magic....

From Booklist

This sequel to Magic's Silken Snare [BKL Ap l5 03] continues the quests of those who loved Alessandra, murdered princess of the Rom, to find her body and free her spirit before she becomes completely demonic. Her betrothed, Maggiore Mandero di Montago, has been commanded by the queen of Tyrrhia not only to search for Alessandra's body but to investigate corruption among the royal guardsmen, too many of whom are taking orders from a secret society associated with the Roman church. On his quest, Mandero discovers that the corruption is real and more deeply ingrained that anyone at court suspected. He also discovers that promises Alessandra made to the fairy folk mean that they, too, will aid him. He needs all the help he can get, for Tyrrhia, whose direct heir died in Magic's Silken Snare, is on the verge of political and religious warfare of the most vicious sort. The sequel is as gripping as the predecessor, and the term richly textured is also applicable to this superior historical fantasy. Frieda MurrayCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

Locus

"An alternate Renaissance Italy is the setting for this opulent tale of court intrigue and dark magics. This excellent first novel presents engaging characters in a well-realized world."

Booklist

"The sequel is as gripping as the predecessor, and the term richly textured is also applicable to this superior historical fantasy."

Romantic Times

"An alternate Sicily is splendidly revealed, as seen through the eyes of new voice ElizaBeth Gilligan. Robust characterizations, multiple storylines and clever delivery of snippets create a satisfying tale."

Midwest Book Review

“ElizaBeth Gilligan is a bright and shining star in the fantasy firmament, an author who creates characters, both real and magical, who appeal to readers who like complexity and honor in their heroes.... A book that deserves to be put on the keeper’s shelf.”

About the Author

ElizaBeth Gilligan, a fantasy author, lives in San Francisco. Along with her novels Magic’s Silken Snare and The Silken Shroud, she has written several short works and has appeared in many anthologies.  She can be found at egilligan.livejournal.com.

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