Chalice by Robin Mckinley

Chalice takes place in a land where I’d like to live. The people, the animals, the water, the land itself are all connected. What would it be like to be able to feel the health of the earth? To be able to affect the health of the earth? Of course, the book wouldn’t be as readable and compelling as it is if all was paradise. There are obstacles to work through, “bad” people to thwart, and insecurities to overcome. My favorite books are the ones where I put myself in the heroine’s (or hero’s) place and wonder what I would do in their situation. Would I be able to step into a role that I was unprepared for but was undeniably chosen for? Would I be able to put aside my own doubts and fears, my own wants and needs to do what was best for my people and my land? As with the best books, Chalice both entertains and challenges.