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Winter's Handmaiden
A goddess is missing.
Humanity suffers in an enduring winter.
Within a modern archeology dig site, unsuspecting Maryn Ferguson uncovers a powerful and mysterious ancient artifact that thrusts her into a journey of epic proportions. Entrenched in a land of fairies, gods and monsters, the fate of the world rests solely on her shoulders.
Well, she’s not exactly alone. She and her appointed guide . . . sidekick . . . er, reluctant best friend must outmaneuver treacherous spies, deadly monsters, and menacing gods, all while trying not to freeze to death.
When disaster strikes and she’s plunged into the world of the dead, Maryn’s carefully bandaged heart threatens to unravel at the hands of the smoke-show-of-a-god, Arawn.
Will she sacrifice her dream of returning to the safe, detached world she still craves, or will she risk everything to save millions of lives and maybe find a life filled with more love and contentment than she ever imagined?
Humanity suffers in an enduring winter.
Within a modern archeology dig site, unsuspecting Maryn Ferguson uncovers a powerful and mysterious ancient artifact that thrusts her into a journey of epic proportions. Entrenched in a land of fairies, gods and monsters, the fate of the world rests solely on her shoulders.
Well, she’s not exactly alone. She and her appointed guide . . . sidekick . . . er, reluctant best friend must outmaneuver treacherous spies, deadly monsters, and menacing gods, all while trying not to freeze to death.
When disaster strikes and she’s plunged into the world of the dead, Maryn’s carefully bandaged heart threatens to unravel at the hands of the smoke-show-of-a-god, Arawn.
Will she sacrifice her dream of returning to the safe, detached world she still craves, or will she risk everything to save millions of lives and maybe find a life filled with more love and contentment than she ever imagined?
- GenresFantasy
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 16, 2024
This is such a cool story that blends modern-day archeology with ancient myths. The story follows Maryn, an unsuspecting archeologist who stumbles upon a powerful artifact and ends up with a whole lot of responsibility that she wasn't anticipating. With a realm suffering under an unending winter, Maryn is tasked to act as Winter's handmaiden, with the fate of the world resting on her shoulders.
The story's strength lies in its rich folklore and mythological elements. Wade does an excellent job of drawing readers into a land steeped in ancient lore. The world-building is interesting and immersive, providing a fascinating backdrop for Maryn's adventure.
Maryn's burgeoning relationship with the enigmatic god Arawn is intriguing, but it sometimes overshadows the more compelling elements of the story. The lore and mythology are so rich and well-crafted that I found myself wishing the narrative leaned more heavily on these aspects rather than shifting focus to the romance. That being said, the romance itself is well-written, with Arawn's character is complex and intriguing. His interactions with Maryn bring out different facets of her personality, making her a more rounded and relatable character. The emotional development between them is engaging, but I did not feel a whole lot of chemistry. I think it would have worked just as well - if not better - as a more platonic relationship.
The adventure aspect of Winter's Handmaiden is my favorite part, with Maryn and her new reluctant dwarven friend navigating a dangerous world with meddling gods. The challenges they face keep the plot moving at a brisk pace. Which makes it all the more jarring when they are safely ensconced in Arawn's domain. Twice.
While the romance may overshadow the folklore at times, it still provides an enjoyable and emotional ride. J.C. Wade has crafted a compelling story with intricate lore and engaging characters.
Thanks to the author for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
The story's strength lies in its rich folklore and mythological elements. Wade does an excellent job of drawing readers into a land steeped in ancient lore. The world-building is interesting and immersive, providing a fascinating backdrop for Maryn's adventure.
Maryn's burgeoning relationship with the enigmatic god Arawn is intriguing, but it sometimes overshadows the more compelling elements of the story. The lore and mythology are so rich and well-crafted that I found myself wishing the narrative leaned more heavily on these aspects rather than shifting focus to the romance. That being said, the romance itself is well-written, with Arawn's character is complex and intriguing. His interactions with Maryn bring out different facets of her personality, making her a more rounded and relatable character. The emotional development between them is engaging, but I did not feel a whole lot of chemistry. I think it would have worked just as well - if not better - as a more platonic relationship.
The adventure aspect of Winter's Handmaiden is my favorite part, with Maryn and her new reluctant dwarven friend navigating a dangerous world with meddling gods. The challenges they face keep the plot moving at a brisk pace. Which makes it all the more jarring when they are safely ensconced in Arawn's domain. Twice.
While the romance may overshadow the folklore at times, it still provides an enjoyable and emotional ride. J.C. Wade has crafted a compelling story with intricate lore and engaging characters.
Thanks to the author for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
June 28, 2024
Each year the seasons change when one seasonal god is put to rest (or to hibernate) by the incoming seasonal god. Winter falls to spring, spring to summer, summer to fall, and fall to winter. But what happens if the incoming god is not there to take over for the last? This is what happens when Brigid , goddess of spring, does not arrive to relieve Cailleach of her winter duties throwing the earth into an unyielding winter. Fast forward to modern day, Maryn a modern day archeologists makes the discovery of a lifetime which throws her into the middle of an ancient mythological man hunt where she is forced to help the withering winter goddess find the missing Brigid so Cailleach can finally be put to rest and the seasons righted. Welcome to a magical tale of ancient Celtic gods, magical kingdoms, and incredible characters! JC Wade spins an enchanting YA story of magical realism throughout the Winters Handmaiden. This story is incredibly descriptive, which I loved but I can see where some could find it a bit long winded. It did move a bit slow at times but I promise you, you will not regret sticking with it and finishing this beautiful story.
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Transparency disclaimer: I received a free ARC version of this story via StoryOrigin which did not influence my review in any way, shape or form.
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Transparency disclaimer: I received a free ARC version of this story via StoryOrigin which did not influence my review in any way, shape or form.
May 19, 2024
A wonderful story with interesting characters and various intertwined, gripping storylines; set for large parts in a Celtic/Pictish world it sways between the realms of reality and mythology.
Winter's Handmaiden is an intriguing story which I found hard to put down after I managed to get through the first couple of pages. Initially I was not so quite certain if this book would be for me, for some reason the first couple of pages dragged on a bit, but about halfway through the first chapter it got me hooked.
The fact that the story takes place for large parts in the Pictish timeline comes with the fact that quite some amount of dialogue is written in 'Scottish'. Some might find that hard to read. I was for some parts not entirely certain if it's proper Scottish, as the Scots I've heard in my life so far speak a wee bit differently. But we can give that to the 'Ancient Scottish/Pictish' part of the story, maybe. If we want. For Scots: please proceed with benevolence and caution.
Some choice of words I found rather odd for the intended age group of 13-18 (according to Amazon), and there have also been a few occasions where the choice of words did make no sense at all.
In conclusion, an amazing story with some very minor technical hiccups. I enjoyed it thoroughly and I would highly recommend reading it to everybody who loves either fantasy, Celtic/Pictish mythology or even just a heart-warming story about friendship, loss, love and weird (but for large parts rather quaint) mythological entities.
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Transparency disclaimer: I received a free ARC version of this story via StoryOrigin which did not influence my review in any way, shape or form.
Winter's Handmaiden is an intriguing story which I found hard to put down after I managed to get through the first couple of pages. Initially I was not so quite certain if this book would be for me, for some reason the first couple of pages dragged on a bit, but about halfway through the first chapter it got me hooked.
The fact that the story takes place for large parts in the Pictish timeline comes with the fact that quite some amount of dialogue is written in 'Scottish'. Some might find that hard to read. I was for some parts not entirely certain if it's proper Scottish, as the Scots I've heard in my life so far speak a wee bit differently. But we can give that to the 'Ancient Scottish/Pictish' part of the story, maybe. If we want. For Scots: please proceed with benevolence and caution.
Some choice of words I found rather odd for the intended age group of 13-18 (according to Amazon), and there have also been a few occasions where the choice of words did make no sense at all.
In conclusion, an amazing story with some very minor technical hiccups. I enjoyed it thoroughly and I would highly recommend reading it to everybody who loves either fantasy, Celtic/Pictish mythology or even just a heart-warming story about friendship, loss, love and weird (but for large parts rather quaint) mythological entities.
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Transparency disclaimer: I received a free ARC version of this story via StoryOrigin which did not influence my review in any way, shape or form.
April 25, 2024
Spring is late and may be missing. Winter has stayed too long. She and the world around her will suffer greatly if Spring does not return. Forward to the future where Archeologist Maryn uncovers a strange, very sharp artifact. When taking it to be examined, her plane is in a bad storm, and she disappears. Thrust into an unknown world, Maryn is deemed Winters Handmaiden and must do things outside her comfort zone to save this world and the future. As a scientist, she has no idea how she can help. She soon learns that she can and will do much outside her comfort zone to save herself and others. Things are not always as they seem, and there is always a choice. This story has laughter, sadness, terror, courage, and so much more. I look forward to more of J C Wade
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2024
Told through mythical and magical realism, this is an excellent YA story of the seasonal gods…who help regulate the weather and change of seasons…and when it’s time for seasons to change, one god is put to rest (to hibernate) by the new seasonal god. But what happens when something interferes with that process?? Welcome to the magical kingdoms and incredible characters! The author weaves a wonderful, quirky, and enchanting tale where you will experience all the intricate details of the story, as the chapters pull you in to the action, danger, and mystique. Many twists and turns and totally unexpected ending! ….and yes, there is some romance as well! This is a book to be savored. Be prepared for the use of Old Norse dialect, but it adds so much to the story! Kudos to the author for a very different approach to this journey! Don’t miss this read!!!
May 8, 2024
I received this book as a digital ARC read and I could not be happier. I was captivated from the very beginning and the only thing stopping me from finishing the book quickly was daily life. Magic, fantasy, intrigue, love, heartbreak, anger, etc. This book as it all! Some fade to grey/black moments near the end make it so that my daughter will also be comfortable reading it once I get my hands on a physical copy. This is one of those stories that will suck you in and make it VERY hard to pull out of. I look forward to adding more books by this author to my personal library.
May 11, 2024
Scotland, timetravel and magic, my favourite ingredients for a book. This was a really great read and I enjoyed it very much. It is gripping from the start and so different and interesting. I really like the FMC, she's over 20 years old and quite normal, with no impressing strength or magical power (in the beginning), she'd had no combat training or was in any way prepared to be thrown into a magical world and war, she only had her knowledge and studies.
The romance is secondary and doesn't have any spice 😍. It wasn't insta-love, but it wasn't slow-burn either, still... I liked it, because who could resist the God of the Underworld?
This book has folklore, mythological creatures and gods, advanture, personal growth, love.... What more could you ask for? I wholeheartedly recommend this book to any fantasy lover and I will definitely read other books from this author.
The only thing this book lacked, is a pronounciation guide for all the names. I had to look them up on Google in order to know how to pronounce them correctly in my head. But all in all it's a wonderful story and I already miss Maryn and Arawn.
The romance is secondary and doesn't have any spice 😍. It wasn't insta-love, but it wasn't slow-burn either, still... I liked it, because who could resist the God of the Underworld?
This book has folklore, mythological creatures and gods, advanture, personal growth, love.... What more could you ask for? I wholeheartedly recommend this book to any fantasy lover and I will definitely read other books from this author.
The only thing this book lacked, is a pronounciation guide for all the names. I had to look them up on Google in order to know how to pronounce them correctly in my head. But all in all it's a wonderful story and I already miss Maryn and Arawn.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2024
I read this as an ARC and went into it completely blind. And I was hooked within the first couple of chapters. The magic and world building was so fun and unique for a folklore fantasy. I loved that the FMC was not your usual warrior woman but one of science that had to find her strength and use the abilities she had. This book was filled with so much adventure and a little bit of romance. I enjoyed that it mainly focuses on Maryn’s journey but with that little sprinkle of romance. It was a great book and is a standalone. I highly recommend!
July 7, 2024
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Winter’s Handmaiden has intriguing world building. It was easy to lose myself in the world the author created. I liked the characters as well. The story drags a bit in places though. Sometimes it felt like I was the one trudging through the snowy winter to get back to where the story picked up the pace again. I thoroughly enjoyed the relationship Maryn develops with her escort as well as Death himself. If you’re a fan of fantasy/adventure, I definitely recommend this book.
Winter’s Handmaiden has intriguing world building. It was easy to lose myself in the world the author created. I liked the characters as well. The story drags a bit in places though. Sometimes it felt like I was the one trudging through the snowy winter to get back to where the story picked up the pace again. I thoroughly enjoyed the relationship Maryn develops with her escort as well as Death himself. If you’re a fan of fantasy/adventure, I definitely recommend this book.
June 8, 2024
I received this book as a digital ARC from the author and I really enjoyed it. I liked the world building and the concept. The FMC wasn't' a whiny character, like some FMCs are portrayed, which I really liked. The journey she had to take kept you on your toes and she developed a sweet romance with another character. This is the first book I've read by J.C. Wade and I definitely plan on reading more based on this book.
May 29, 2024
Rating: 4.25/5 Penguins (rounded down)
Quick Reasons: intriguing, entertaining, unique read; interesting spin on old lore; Death romance!!! (still my favorite, it seems); sassy, snarky, believable characters; the chosen one with a lot of "don't want to be"
HUGE thanks to J.C. Wade and StoryOrigin for the title! My review is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by this gesture.
“Darkness cannot stand against your brilliance, Little Mortal. It flees, just as this light dispels the night from around us. You hold all the power you need to fight your demons.”
If that was true, why didn’t Maryn feel triumph ring through her? Why did she fight the urge to weep instead?
“I think it has to do with the fact that fear has a way of shackling us,” he said, contemplative. “It binds us so we can’t move forward. A hard lesson to learn.”
Penguins.... when I say I go into reads pretty much blind, I MEAN I go into them having read the blurb (weeks? Months? YEARS?!) ago and I have no recollection of what the book is about and I don't want to spoil myself by rereading the blurb before starting. So when I TELL YOU I went into this read happily not knowing it was a Reaper romance..... only to find out that it is exactly that?!?! My Penguin heart did a happy jig between my ribs.
This read was atmospheric, vividly painted, and filled with emotion. The characters are vibrant and well crafted. The play on "the chosen one" with "but doesn't WANT to be" gave this a fresh spin. The romance was slow burn and fiery. I just CANNOT come up with enough great things to say about this one. The writing is VERY purple, though, Penguins-- it can be a bit harder to follow in some places, so if you're not a fan of very vivid prose, this one might be harder for you. I, on the other hand, loved it immensely! The twists on Fae lore and the stories of the seasons really helped to flesh this out and bring this read even further to life.
“How long have you been alone, Arawn?”
“I try not to think of it,” he admitted. “Counting the years only seems to hone the sharp edge of eternity. If I’m not careful, it can cut me.”
I definitely recommend this to lovers of Reaper romances, Fae realms, and lore retellings. This tale is bound to sweep you into a different world and leave you wishing you could live there. Winter lingers, Penguins; will you take up the search for Spring?
Quick Reasons: intriguing, entertaining, unique read; interesting spin on old lore; Death romance!!! (still my favorite, it seems); sassy, snarky, believable characters; the chosen one with a lot of "don't want to be"
HUGE thanks to J.C. Wade and StoryOrigin for the title! My review is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by this gesture.
“Darkness cannot stand against your brilliance, Little Mortal. It flees, just as this light dispels the night from around us. You hold all the power you need to fight your demons.”
If that was true, why didn’t Maryn feel triumph ring through her? Why did she fight the urge to weep instead?
“I think it has to do with the fact that fear has a way of shackling us,” he said, contemplative. “It binds us so we can’t move forward. A hard lesson to learn.”
Penguins.... when I say I go into reads pretty much blind, I MEAN I go into them having read the blurb (weeks? Months? YEARS?!) ago and I have no recollection of what the book is about and I don't want to spoil myself by rereading the blurb before starting. So when I TELL YOU I went into this read happily not knowing it was a Reaper romance..... only to find out that it is exactly that?!?! My Penguin heart did a happy jig between my ribs.
This read was atmospheric, vividly painted, and filled with emotion. The characters are vibrant and well crafted. The play on "the chosen one" with "but doesn't WANT to be" gave this a fresh spin. The romance was slow burn and fiery. I just CANNOT come up with enough great things to say about this one. The writing is VERY purple, though, Penguins-- it can be a bit harder to follow in some places, so if you're not a fan of very vivid prose, this one might be harder for you. I, on the other hand, loved it immensely! The twists on Fae lore and the stories of the seasons really helped to flesh this out and bring this read even further to life.
“How long have you been alone, Arawn?”
“I try not to think of it,” he admitted. “Counting the years only seems to hone the sharp edge of eternity. If I’m not careful, it can cut me.”
I definitely recommend this to lovers of Reaper romances, Fae realms, and lore retellings. This tale is bound to sweep you into a different world and leave you wishing you could live there. Winter lingers, Penguins; will you take up the search for Spring?
May 24, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive Winter’s Handmaiden as an eARC in exchange for an honest review and am SO very grateful to have had the opportunity to delve into this world early. Set between modern Scotland and ancient Pictish/Celtic days, this gripping tale has fantasy, love, mythology, and family.
I could have benefitted from a pronunciation guide for some of the Pictist/Scottish/Celtic words, but was able to enjoy the story without… even though I did look up a few.
I found myself relating to the female main character and appreciated that she was not only had beauty and strength, but intelligence as well. When she *spoiler* finds her match in the God of the Underworld… I cried happy tears.
I am surely going to be checking out more of this author’s work and am desperately hoping that we are able to join Maryn and Arawn in the future… sequel? Trilogy? YES PLEASE!
I could have benefitted from a pronunciation guide for some of the Pictist/Scottish/Celtic words, but was able to enjoy the story without… even though I did look up a few.
I found myself relating to the female main character and appreciated that she was not only had beauty and strength, but intelligence as well. When she *spoiler* finds her match in the God of the Underworld… I cried happy tears.
I am surely going to be checking out more of this author’s work and am desperately hoping that we are able to join Maryn and Arawn in the future… sequel? Trilogy? YES PLEASE!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2024
JC Wade's novel seamlessly blends ancient myths with modern-day archaeology, crafting a captivating tale that unfolds through the lenses of mythical and magical realism. Wade's storytelling shines through intricate character development and a multi-layered narrative that spans different realms. As a newcomer to the genre of mythical and magical realism, I found Wade's approach refreshing and captivating, solidifying it as a favorite trope that I eagerly look forward to exploring further. This novel is a testament to Wade's ability to create a mesmerizing fusion of ancient lore and contemporary adventure, making it a must-read for fans of imaginative storytelling.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2024
I was looking for in the description and from the cover, it had that element that I really enjoyed and was engaged with what was happening. J.C. Wade wrote this perfectly for the story type and I enjoyed getting to know these characters. The world that was everything that I was looking for and wanted to read more in this concept.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2024
This book was a real page turner, once I started reading it I could not stop. The ending was not what I was expecting but it did not disappoint.
The story is a sweet one. This is the first time I read something from this author but I am so glad I found her Tik Tok! I will definitely read from this author again!! If this story becomes a series I would be interested in reading about it.
The story is a sweet one. This is the first time I read something from this author but I am so glad I found her Tik Tok! I will definitely read from this author again!! If this story becomes a series I would be interested in reading about it.
May 13, 2024
I got this book as an arc read. I love mythology and love the goddess. This story was so good. I was hooked from the get go. I won’t say much to spoil the book but if you love Cailleach, Brigid, or Morrigan this book is for you. Our heroine is reluctant in the beginning but I love her growth and how she handles everything. Good book.
May 16, 2024
This was a nice book to read, a very good story. A bit slower for me to read , but not too bad. I ended up enjoying it quite a bit. I do recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading this type of book about gods and goddesses with the whole quest and romance type stories. I actually believe I may read it through again .
May 25, 2024
That’s to the author I received this as an ARC copy. I tend to blind read and want sure what I was letting myself into. It was a slow read for me due to circumstances and time but that just made me savour it all the more. What a fantastic read gripping and enchanting in all the right places. Fantasy, mythical creatures, gods, mortals! Loved it!
May 26, 2024
Had an opportunity read an ARC and overall the book was a great read. I enjoy hades and persephone inspired stories. Plot was easy to follow as a reader however there were times it felt a little to drawn out. This is a fast read and if you like mythology inspired book this is a quick read to enjoy.
May 28, 2024
I was afforded the opportunity to read this as an ARC. Overall, it was an easy read and enjoyable. The plot flowed well and for the most part was easy to follow. I rated it the was I did because I feel that on several occasions the story was drawn out; at some points I debated not completing it. I’m glad I pushed through and finished the book. It definitely left me wondering what happens next.
June 3, 2024
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I was compelled by the relationship between Maryn and Arawn. But it took so long to get there!
I didn’t understand enough about Durvan to get why he was so antagonistic towards Maryn basically the entire time they were together. It would have been so nice to see a turn in their relationship to where they were friends.
I didn’t understand enough about Durvan to get why he was so antagonistic towards Maryn basically the entire time they were together. It would have been so nice to see a turn in their relationship to where they were friends.
June 15, 2024
I got this book as an ARC. I don’t know if it is just because I am not connecting with the story right now but this book is currently a DNF for me.
I usually love stories with mythology and especially stories that relate to my own heritage. However, I cannot get myself to focus on this story and read through it. I am only 100 pages in but hope in the future to try it again.
I usually love stories with mythology and especially stories that relate to my own heritage. However, I cannot get myself to focus on this story and read through it. I am only 100 pages in but hope in the future to try it again.
July 15, 2024
This is a book for people who like mythology, supernatural creatures, and a story full of lovable characters. And if you have ever wondered why all heroines seem to be 16 years old, this book is perfect.
Well, meet Maryn, our 28-year-old who is thrown into an adventure she could never have foreseen after she is set the task to find spring.
Well, meet Maryn, our 28-year-old who is thrown into an adventure she could never have foreseen after she is set the task to find spring.
August 1, 2024
A female Indiana Jones? Maryn Comes pretty close, in my opinion. A thrilling fantasy adventure story. A mixture of different genres that makes this story more exciting and entertaining. A marvelous female character and a creative plot.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2024
This is such a good book! This is the first i have read by this author, and i am so glad i did. It's very well written. She has such an amazing imagination that she displays really well in her writing. I strongly recommend this book, it does not disappoint
May 7, 2024
This book will live rent free in my mind for a long while. Lots of fantasy with a little romantasy. Great read over all. I couldnt put it down after about page 200. I love her writting style. Swept me away with the adventure, peril, banter, magic and of course a little book boyfriend.
May 17, 2024
I received this book as a digital ARC read. Captivating story from the beginning, with great world building. A lot of fantasy with a little romance. Many twists and turns and an unexpected ending that did not disappoint. Would recommend to any fantasy lover.
May 24, 2024
Love Maryn she doesn't let her fear hold her back. She pushes through to complete hear task of finding the spring goddess. Never thought I would find his nickname for her cute but I did. Once I started reading I could not put it down. Really love this book.
May 28, 2024
Go read the book!!
I read. A lot. There are few books I’ve read that I consider works of art. This is one of them. J.C. has a way with words that I rarely find in modern literature. This book…this book. *shakes head ruefully* Just go read it. You won’t be disappointed.
I read. A lot. There are few books I’ve read that I consider works of art. This is one of them. J.C. has a way with words that I rarely find in modern literature. This book…this book. *shakes head ruefully* Just go read it. You won’t be disappointed.
May 31, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story caught me by surprise and moved along at a pace that kept my interest. I love the mythology wrapped into a sweet love story. The characters were interesting, and I loved the changes in scenery as the story progressed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews