Ryan Sullivan (1)

I received this book on LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review. The plot looked interesting and it looked like it was written from the female protagonist's point of view (the main characters are brother & sister twins). I read part of the story but didn't end up finishing the book. From what I read, my opinion is as follows:
I was correct about the first point: it is an interesting plot and has a lot of potential for story development! I'd like to see how this author develops his skills in future books.
However on the second point (female protagonist), I was disappointed. The book is written from the brother's point of view and as far as I read in the book the sister is a mostly mute sidekick with very little character development.
In addition, the action scenes could use a bit of work. I remember thinking to myself, "Show, don't tell!" as I was reading (especially the first sword fight scene).
Overall, I'd check out subsequent books by Ryan Sullivan to see how he develops as an author but I wouldn't recommend this particular book as a 'must read'.… (more)

On one hand this book felt very thought out and developed. The world and the characters were believable and engrossing. But on the other hand, certain parts of the story fell flat for me. Mainly the love story between Saera and Faine. There was no development of it. There was no stolen glances or lingering moments to suggest something was growing between them. It was just stated and then they were a couple. I realize the story is told mainly from the point of view from Eoin, Saera's brother, and he might not be all that perceptive of things, but still - it was lacking depth to make it feel real.… (more)

****This was given to me by the Author for an honest review****

Since their father was taken to the dungeons of the capital city, Eoin and Saera have had to fend for themselves. If Eoin can find an apprenticeship in the capital, they can work on freeing him.

But Saera is afflicted with an evil goddess's light, and when her Aura flares up in the middle of the street, the power-hungry Church Regency are quickly on their heels, keen to eradicate the threat.

With more than the Regency after them, their only hope is to relinquish the Aura. Making alliances they would never have dreamt of, they find themselves swept up into a struggle against the kingdom they once called their own

Great book for the younger (ages 11+) to read. I know my son will love it.

Very descriptive, you could picture yourself with the characters. The writing, characterization, dialogue is age appropriate but here and there is some colorful language, but other than that the book was very well written.

I hope to see more of this series.… (more)