CBR15 Bingo: Relation ‘ship’ – Cassiel’s Servant tells Joscelin’s side of the relationship between him and Phedre as originally depicted in Kushiel’s Dart. Additionally there are some pivotal moments that happen on a ship.
Firstly, I unequivocally love Kushiel’s Dart. My oldest daughter was named after a character (Ysandre de la Courcel). I recommend it to people (that I think can handle the bdsm elements) all the time. There is intrigue, adventure, romance, Gods acting through their mortal chosen, and gorgeous writing. It’s a book that I’ve reread multiple times and enjoy it just as much as the first time.
Secondly, when I found out about this retelling, rolled my eyes and thought about skipping it. But I have deep love for Carey’s writing and she was coming to my favorite, local independent bookstore to promote it. So I caved, pre-ordered a copy and got to the event bright an early to secure a seat. The event was delightful. Carey is charming and funny in person. If you enjoy her work and have the chance, I recommend going to see her.
Years ago, when Midnight Sun, the retelling of Twilight from Edward’s perspective, came out there was a clamoring by Carey’s fans to do the same for Joscelin. Initially, Carey said no, unless she got a good idea for retelling. Apparently she did and Cassiel’s Servant was born.
It was nice to get more of Joscelin’s backstory by learning a bit more about his family life and the history of his uncle being trained as a Cassiline. I appreciated the time spent on his training and thought it a brilliant touch that his dominant hand was bound behind his back initially so he could learn to be proficient with either hand. This time shown a light on where his arrogance and rigid views developed. It also planted the seeds that would cause him to question his vows and ultimately the meaning behind which the Cassiline brotherhood is founded, to be the perfect companion. What if there was physical love between the gods, Elua and Cassiel ?
I enjoyed watching Joscelin’s understanding and view of Phedre change as he realized she was far deeper than just being a plaything of the wealthy. It was lovely to see the precise moments that Phedre started breaking down the barrier that Joscelin had erected around his heart. Their first lovemaking has a sweetness to it in this telling as it was approached from Joscelin’s prior celibacy and his acceptance that sex can be a holy act.
Carey’s talented writing in Cassiel is on full display but it felt a bit muted compared to the lushness of Kushiel because we are now seeing the world through Joscelin’s eyes, and he isn’t the spy trained, luxury indulgent courtesan that Phedre is. While I enjoyed my time with the pair, this just doesn’t have the same level of excitement and intensity that Kushiel does. Joscelin isn’t in on the intrigue or dangerous sexual liaisons and spends much of that time waiting off screen. As a result it felt like a pale imitation of the original. It’s a nice addition to the story but ultimately felt unnecessary to me.
Note: In the relation”ship” circle I tried to pay homage to the flag that was created by Phedre’s Boys. It featured a scarlet circle pierced by a barb to represent the red mote in Phedre’s eye and that she was pricked by Kushiel’s dart.
