Seaborn is the first novel in the eponymous epic fantasy series, written by Michael Livingston, and published by Head of Zeus. An ambitious first instalment, that throws into a fascinating world with a matriarchal society, and that is used to write a gripping and high-action fantasy adventure, with an excellent cast of characters.

The seven houses of the Seaborn have dominated the seas of the Fair Isles for centuries; until suddenly, one night, a new enemy appeared, the Windborn, raiding, burning and killing. That first night, Bela became a heroine, even if she doesn't want to accept it; for a chance of destiny, she ends together with Shae, a pirate, capturing a Windborn airship and discovering that the captain is a male. However, there's more behind the Windborn attacks that they know, and uncovering the truth behind it will take them in an intense adventure that will shake the pillars of their society.

Interestingly, despite Bela adopts a secondary role at some points, I feel she is the real lead of the story; a humble but brave woman that is just trying to get her worthiness recognized, not to just be the hero of the night the Windborn appeared. Shae is a bit more complicated to analyze, but apart from always being in danger, she's decisive for the story to happen. In comparison, the Windborn captain pales a bit, a man with an oath, but who is open to change his ideas with enough pressure.

The world is absolutely fascinating, portraying a complex society where the genre roles are inverted; the Windborn are the opposite to the Seaborn, using technology to fight against the magic of the Seaborn, with a totally different conception about genre stereotypes. It is true that the pacing is a bit slow, but it is balanced with excellent action scenes.

Seaborn lays a solid foundation for what aims to be an epic series; this first instalment is an introduction to the world, preparing all for a sequel that seems to have a bigger scope. If you like epic fantasy, and want something different, give Seaborn a try!