Vonda McIntyre
The Moon and the Sun (1997)
Author: Vonda McIntyre
Genre: Fantasy (Alternate History)
Plot Summary:
In the fiftieth year of his reign Louis XIV sends his natural philosopher Father Yves de la Croix in search of the mythical Sea Monsters. These monsters are thought to be the key to immortality and the king wants one to eat for his anniversary banquet. Father de la Coix is successful in bringing one sea monster back alive (and one dead), and asks his sister Marie Josephe to help him take care of it. As Marie Josephe feeds and tries to train the sea monster she begins to realize that the monster can communicate to her through song. SPOILER: Marie Josephe realizes through the sea monster's song that the monster is actually a sea woman. Marie Josephe decides to free the sea woman at any cost.
Geographical Setting: France
Time Period: 1693
Appeal Characteristics:
This book seems to have a good balance of characteristics. There are scenes of action-packed excitement and several chapters just detailing social customs or internal conflict. There also a good balance of dialogue and imagery. There is a central character, but the book also looks at the relationships between many characters. The descriptions of Louis XIV's court are really detailed; you feel as if you are there. The sea monster and its' environment are also elaborately described.
Read-alikes: Many authors write alternate histories, although few take place in 17th century France. Harry Turtledove's Ruled Britannia takes place in 17th century Britain, and has the same interplay of fictional and historical characters as McIntyre's book. Kage Baker's In the Garden of Iden and David Weber and Eric Flint's 1632 and 1633 are alternate histories with great historical detail, but they also involve time travel. James White's The Silent Stars Go By deals with the interaction of historical people and other life forms. Randell Garett's Lord Darcy Investigates takes place in the 12th century but also has rich historical detail and the excitement of murder mystery.
Red Flags: There is talk about sex and rape, but no description.
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