Chalice by Robin McKinley

Mirasol was thrust into a complex world of politics, magic and traditions when she was given Chalicehood in the demesne of Willowlands. As Chalice, she must oversee all official demesne and Circle business. That is not always the easiest job when the Master, a Fire Priest, is feared by everyone (except her,) the Grand Seneschal hates her, and the Circle completely ignores her. Fun right?


Throw on top of that messy and cruel job, the responsibility to take care of the demesne’s needs. She’s its mother in one sense. She must help with healing, bless crops, save trapped animals and children, ect. She is one busy woman.

Once the Overseer hears of the Master’s return—his brother, the previous master, had sent him to the Fire Priests to get him out of the way—he sends an agent to soil his reign. Only Mirasol, her bees and her magic honey can save the Master and the demesne from a brutal reign of a man not suited for the title Master.

A book packed full of action, adventure, and a hint of honey, Chalice is a wondrous fairytale.