Christy Nicholas

Very well written! The (base) setting is Canada in a near alternative time (2027) where the US has dissolved from internecine issues, and other nations are not *quite* the same either. This is only alluded to in terms of the storyline - it is NOT a political novel.

The main character is wonderfully spunky and sarcastic. The other lead characters all bring something to the piece, and in only one instance did I think a character (who appears well on in the book) could have been slightly better show more drawn. (and that is meant as "slightly", it does not detract from the story or the excellent prose)

While a bit heavyhanded with the "clues that will be relevant later" in the very beginning of the novel, this writer has a deft hand with the plot and creates a very engaging narrative and story. The time-travel settings are very well done, and this author has made a point to get things correct (as much as is possible, esp with some settings)

Bonus the "mystery" and how it is solved is very adeptly done! (no spoilers..don't want to ruin the fun)

A contender for my "best of" for 2020!

in short.. stop reading my comments.. go read this book!! show less

This is a visually stunning book, and in a sense, Nicholas’s title does not do it justice. She offers so much more than what the title suggests. The book begins with comprehensive descriptions of the cultural, historical, folkloric background of Iceland. As it turns out, Iceland has so much more to offer: a thriving festival and music scene, snorkeling (yes you read that correctly), swimming, hot springs, birdwatching, hiking, camping, film sites and up-and-coming culinary opportunities. I show more believe I was most impressed with the author’s systematic way of aiding the first-time traveler in organizing a trip to this beautiful still-growing island. She offers tips on procuring a visa or passport, useful photo equipment to bring, lodging, financial planning/monetary exchange, car rental, health and car insurance, as well as regional maps, helpful Icelandic words, and planning websites, etc. This is a fairly comprehensive book I feel most people could feel comfortable using it to organize a trip to this gorgeous republic. show less

This is truly a fascinating fantasy book. It is a historical one at that. Maelan is just trying to do what he feels is right. He's so conflicted. You feel his pain and discomfort through the story as he tries to protect his granddaughter. The writing of this story is phenomenal. Don't fret, the author gives a bit of a dictionary to help with the Irish words, so you shouldn't get to lost. The descriptions of the people and the lands totally make you feel like you are there. I came in at this, show more book 5 of the series. I do plan to go back and start with the first book because there is a brooch involved and I feel a little lost because I don't know the history of how it got back through time. I can really tell the author did her research because things are just so laid out. The plot line comes back together when it takes a twist or turn. An amazing book that I definitely recommend for fantasy or historical readers, or both. show less

This is one of the most fascinating stories I have read this year. The premise of the magnetic pole shift causing hidden powers to come out in some people and not others is excellent. I'm a huge X-men fan and I have to say that this story felt a little like I was meeting a new branch. All the powers coming out and the characters made this story fascinating and uniquely entertaining for me. I found that I was sucked in at page 1 and couldn't put it down until I was done. It had a terrific show more flow. The plot twists were great and unexpected. I have to say that I'm excited and eagerly awaiting book 2. You need to read this. One of my favorites for this year. New author and now a favorite for me. Loved this book! show less