Riverside is a labyrinthine city of intrigue where society’s rules only loosely apply. Katherine is the niece of Alec Campion, the Mad Duke Tremontaine. Raised far from the city and its schemes, Katherine is pleasantly surprised when she told she is to go and live with her uncle. She imagines her new life will be rich and breathtaking, but her dreams soon crash down to earth when she discovers her uncle’s designs: he wants her to be something unique, something never seen before: a swordswoman. The Privilege of the Sword is a novel of love, betrayal, scandal, and secrets. Set between Kushner’s backlist favorite, Swordspoint, and her collaboration with Delia Sherman, The Fall of the Kings, Privilege is an marvelous tale crackling with energy, wit, and wonders. One of the most gorgeous books I’ve ever read: it’s witty and wonderful, with characters that will provoke, charm and delight. -- Holly Black, Tithe A magical mixture of Dumas and Georgette Heyer. The dialogue dazzles and so does the swordplay. -- Kelly Link, Magic for Beginners