Lifelode

A Marakandan scholar travels to Applekirk in search of knowledge about the ancient Marisians and encounters a native who has returned to Applekirk to fulfill his destiny. A very unique fantasy novel by Jo Walton a winner of the John W. Campbell Award for Best New Writer and the World Fantasy award. From the introduction by Sharyn November: "Lifelode is what one might call domestic fantasy, set in a quiet farming communitybut it's also about politics, God and religion, sexual mores, the make-up of a family, and how people change over time. There is magic, humor, and lots of good food."