~Book Review~ The Fire Lord's Lover

Fire Lord's Lover by Kathryne Kennedy 

My rating: 4.8 of 5 pearls

Sensitive readers beware: Contains graphic love scenes. 

It says a lot for this book that it captured my attention and held it for the short span of time it took me to finish it (less than a day). After weeks of trouble finding a book to successfully hold my attention, this one wouldn't let it go. And I read the Kindle version...without a Kindle. (Imagine hours at a computer screen, straining your eyes because you just can't stop.)

Ms Kennedy built an interesting world, weaving the early Georgian era with a fantasy world of elves, dragons, and human-consuming plants. Her descriptions are beautiful, entrancing. 

This is predominantly a romance, however, and as is the case with most historical romances, the sex is rather detailed and plentiful. But I loved the hero and the heroine. There was a touch of reality to their relationship that I appreciated.

In summary: I will read more by Ms Kennedy.

Disclaimer: The views stated here are my own. I was not paid in any way, shape, or form for this review. I received the book free from an e-book retailer. (Does that cover all the legalities for writing a review?)

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Sons of Avalon: Merlin's Prophecy by Dee Marie

Title: Merlin's Prophecy

Author: Dee Marie

Series: Sons of Avalon, #1

Genre: Historical Fiction

Publisher: Conceptual Images Publishing

ISBN: 0615150527 (9780615150529)

Format: Trade Paperback, 304 pages

List Price: $16.95

Reviewed: July 6, 2009

Rating: 5 stars (4.7)

Warnings: Mild violence

Synopsis: In an unusual twist on Arthurian-type legends, Merlin's Prophecy takes the reader on an adventurous journey, following a young Merlin on his quest to bring about the events that would shape ancient Britain and provide salvation for that war-torn land.

What I liked: Ooo, the historical detail was so breathtaking. I could visualize everything as it happened: Merlin's discovery as an infant, his ever-present hawk, bloody battles, drenching downpours, druidic practices, and the child prophet forced to grow into a man before his time, enduring heartache and strife no child should ever experience. Merlin's story was told in such a way that I was eager to learn more, learn about this "historical" figure as a child and discover just how pivotal a role he played in the eventual arrival of King Arthur. WARNING: This book made me cry more than once. Just FYI. I also loved the inclusion of a glossary of sorts, listing the people and places encountered in this adventurous tale. I'm thrilled this book is the first and we get to experience this world all over again just as soon as Ms Marie gets the sequel finished...hint, hint. :o)

What I didn't like: I hate this part of the review. I loved the book, the storyline, the characters. I already mentioned my anticipation for the sequel. However, there were times when I felt a little disappointed when learning about one character only to find myself suddenly following a different character when my curiosity with the first was not yet satisfied. This probably says more about my impatience as a reader than Ms Marie's abilities as an author...

Overall: 4.7 stars, definitely a keeper to be re-read and enjoyed. I recommend this book to fans of Arthurian legends and anyone who enjoys a good historical novel.