Serena Clarke (2)

I wasn't sure if I would enjoy a fairytale retelling or not. I didn't really know what to expect. What I found was a sweet romance with heroes and villains and a surprise at the end! The story has twists and turns and you won't know what happens next until you keep on reading! It's amazingly clever how the author retells the tale of Rumpelstiltskin, the spinner of gold. I have to admit, I totally forgot how this fairy tale played out. It started to come back to me as I listened to the narrator, Kimi Weldon, tell this story to perfection. She was a pleasing to listen to narrator and it made the story come to life.
There was great chemistry going on in the romance and it totally engaged me. Well done!

I received an Audible copy of this book without expectation of a positive review. All thoughts are my own.… (more)

Serena Clarke has once again captivated her audience with her new fantasy novel of 'The Alliance of Isian'. This is a stand alone sequel to 'The Treasure of Isian'.

The youngest daughter, Gabrielle, of Isian was dismayed at being wedded to Prince Alec of Tandori. T andori was the mortal enemy of Isian. The cultures and customs were very different. This was the only way war between two strong powers could be prevented. If Tandori joined with the other enemies,huge bloodshed and devastation would result. If Isian prevailed the cost in lives lost would be immense. Gabrielle had only met Prince Alec once before. It was not a good experience for her, plus he was much older. How could she possibly endure thus union? How could two bitter enemies sway their people to accept the other.

Prince Alec had never seen the face of his betrothed under the veil she wore. Would she be repulsive to look upon? However, he was duty bound and had no choice. There were many Tandorian women who sought him out. Would he be faithful to his new bride?

This is an impressive tale of the struggles of two people trying to blend two opposite cultures together. It was a seemingly hopeless situation. Could they ever learn to trust each other. Love was not even a consideration. They were both loyal to their countries and duty-bound. The suspense continues to build as the story progresses with action intermingled to the very end.

There is a lesson we can all learn from these experiences and attitudes.

The characters were personable and their portrayal was done well. The background scenery and situations were clearly defined. However, the effort of the author to create a unique opening, left the reader confused in the beginning. It was very unclear for several pages. This is the only flaw in the writing causing this review to withhold a full five stars rating. It, also, slightly dragged in the middle of the story but not so much to cause the reader to quit reading.

The title was appropriate and there is significance in the cover page...Serena eloquently designs her own.

My review of this book offers a strong Four and a Half Stars rating.

It is clean and highly recommended for YA and Adults.

I was gifted this book by the author for an honest review, of which I have given.… (more)

This was a very adventurous and exciting Fantasy. There was seldom a slow moment. Young men will most likely enjoy it as much as the young women.

A servant set out on a journey for treasure with her prince and with a guard of several soldiers. Within days they were overtaken by giants and separated from the palace guard, as they fled for their lives. They worked together for survival until they could get help. The were forced into confrontations with different types of varmints in various situations.

In the end will they find the treasure? Will they, finally, give up for the sake of saving their lives and the Kingdom?

It is a very suspenseful, action packed, and romantic story. Very cleanly written and will be great for YA and adults alike. Great for book club discussions

I won this in a blog giveaway on Linda Weaver Clarke's blog. It was already on my wish list.… (more)