Barbara Underwood

In this wonderful second installment of the Rhuna series, Underwood transports the reader on a mesmerizing odyssey deep into the heart of ancient Egypt, a place baptized as Safu in the folds of this narrative. That bygone world unfurls before our eyes, a mirage of pyramids and mystique, woven with the kind of fantastical prose that mirrors the echoes of Edgar Rice Burroughs, albeit with a softer hue. The pyramids, a fascinating subject for this reader, become even more intriguing within this brilliant story.

Two decades have slipped through the fingers of time for Rhuna since we last met her at the culmination of RHUNA: KEEPER OF WISDOM. Now she is the mother of a beautiful, teenage daughter of her own. Lozira, who doesn’t aspire to the magical healing work of her mother, but has a consuming passion for the creative arts.

In the distant lands of Safu, the whispers of evil doings and fearful cries of the Benshi people find their way to the High Counsel. Rhuna, handpicked by the leaders of Atlan, steps onto the path of destiny, embarking on a journey that stretches across the realms of enchantment and danger. Her and Lozira embark on an thrilling adventure, which Rhuna hopes will weave the strands of their lives into a tighter bond. Little does she know that along the unfolding paths of this exotic tapestry, this journey will stand as her CROSSROADS, a convergence of destinies and a reckoning with the enigmatic forces that stir in the shadows of the pyramids.

Highly recommended reading enjoyment!… (more)

I haven’t read many fantasy novels, but after reading this wonderful book, I imagine I’ll be reading more of them, especially the rest of the Rhuna books by Barbara Underwood.
There is much to delight the reader here. The story revolves around a girl who has become one of my favorite characters. Rhuna is one of those rare people with such a beautiful soul, she has a positive impact on everyone she meets. It’s a blessing to accompany her as she grows from a lonely, 14 year-old outcast to a lovely young woman who humbly becomes an extremely important person in her world.
Not only does the character of Rhuna have a positive effect on those around her, but the novel itself produces that same heartening impact for the reader. It has a special and unique calming quality. The writing is superb. It flows so easily throughout, the reading is effortless.
I especially enjoyed the wonderful, genuine love story between Rhuna and Tozar. I often thought, this is what love is supposed to be.
Underwood’s distinct sensitivity to human emotion arises from the page through the interactions of her characters, leaving the reader feeling as if you’re living among them.
I can’t say enough good things about this lovely story. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.… (more)

Because this is my wife’s book, and I did some of the proofing on it, those reading the review will no doubt weigh that in regard to the review.

That being said, however, for those who enjoy the genre of fantasy based on ancient history and events, I believe this is a great read. There is suspense, and a narrative of fairly fast-flowing events in exotic places. The locations mirror real places that students of ancient lands and peoples, or those with a background in such, will no doubt recognize, even though other names are used. Those familiar with some of Thor Heyerdahl's speculations will definitely recognize a fictional application of them the deeper the reader gets into the series.

While it was necessary in the first book to introduce the characters and the milieu, slowing the narrative down a bit, Crossroads, having established the world, builds on it nicely, while expanding and further developing relationships and growth. The narrative takes right off, in fact, and is probably a bit more exciting and suspenseful than the first book. It has more action because of situations the protagonist, Rhuna, finds herself in, I believe.

There is much personal drama for Rhuna in this one, as her marriage at a young age — but not too young, as a few readers may have misunderstood lunar cycles — to someone much older, begins to crumble under the weight of her new experiences abroad, and the controlling dogma of a husband far away. Rhuna experiences passionate love as well, reluctantly coming to terms with the conflicted feelings in her heart. And of course, there is a daughter to consider, who must also begin to make choices.

Recommended for those who enjoy fantasy and speculative historical (not modern, but very ancient history) fiction, laced with a touch of magic, and a healthy dose of thinly veiled exotic locations. I actually believe Crossroads can stand alone, even if the reader hasn't read the first one — always a plus in any type of series — because it isn't too terribly difficult for the reader to get up to speed in Crossroads if they haven't. Well written and a great read for readers with a knowledgable background.… (more)

I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

Rhuna: The Star Child is book three of the Rhuna Fantasy series. In this portion a few years have passed, Rhuna and Aridin have a loving home and a daughter named Shandi. Rhuna uses the Gazing of the Waters to look in on her daughter Lozira's life. She seems well adjusted to Atlan, and the fact that she's forbidden to communicate with her mother. Suddenly one day Rhuna receives a message from Lozira that she's running away to her mother in Safu. Apparently things weren't as they seemed and this is where their adventure begins.

Once again it was great to visit Safu. There's lots of action, adventure and edge of your seat excitement. It was interesting to see Goran fall in love and not understand his rush of emotions. It's also great to see Rhuna connecting with her father and learning of his missing years. All in all, an amazing addition to the Rhuna series and I'm anxious to see what happens in book four.
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