The Golden Lynx (Legends of the Five Directions)
In 1534 Russia, Nasan, the 16-year-old daughter of a Tatar khan, witnesses the vendetta murder of her brother, only to be married into the rival family to end the feud. Baptized with the new name Irina, Nasan must convert to Orthodox Christianity and take on traditional wifely roles in her Russian husband’s family home in Moscow. But in private she does not leave behind her traditions, including a religion that seamlessly blends Islam and tribal ancestor observances.
Her new husband, Daniil, takes off the day after the wedding to investigate his own brother’s role in Nasan’s brother’s death. He wants to talk to the reported witness to the murder, not realizing that that person is his wife. Meanwhile, Nasan must navigate the complex relationships of her new extended family and surroundings on her own. Skillful with a bow and used to bucking expectations, she slips out at night and takes on the Zorro-type role of the Golden Lynx, helping the common people and victims of crime. As a plot thickens to undermine the regent of Russia, Nasan learns information on her night rambles that concerns both her own family and the country’s rulers.
Cultural clashes between Russian and Tatar on matters of religion, family, women’s roles, and food provide a rich background for the storylines. There’s a bit of tension between genres of romance, adventure, political intrigue, and the almost mythological sense that introduces the book. In addition, Nasan’s quick attachment to her husband and her almost immediate jealousy and anxiety about him leaving seem a little too convenient for the plot, as is her success as the Golden Lynx. Nonetheless, it’s a good read with compelling main characters and a lively story.
While this book is the first in a series, it does very well as a standalone.
