From the moment Victor Greenwood sets foot in the old farmhouse of Willowmere, Mrs. Whitaker and her family take the friendless drifter under their wings as one of their own. Deeply touched by their kindness, Victor delights them with his stories about the Elven-king Othniel and Jael his queen, forming a special bond with Mrs. Whitaker’s nine-year-old granddaughter, Jane. But several odd occurrences indicate that Victor is more than he admits to. When the secret of his heritage threatens Jane’s safety, he sets out for the homeland he has long been banished from, to find Jane and return her home. Unbeknownst to his friends, Victor is doomed to die thirty days after setting foot on his native soil, with only one hope of breaking the curse. But surely thirty days is far too short a time to find True Love...
This book was incredible. At first, it was hard to get into. The first several chapters, maybe four or five, dragged, which might have been because I had just finished a six book series and wasn't mentally prepared for the change. However, this book is one that you can totally throw yourself in there and get invested in. Each character is captivating in his or her own way. In fact, I'm even interested in a few characters that weren't even actually in the book, just mentioned in passing. A few times I was jolted out of the world of the story by a sort of stilted/forced Biblical part. DON'T get me wrong, I'm glad there was a clear Christian worldview in the book, I enjoyed it immensely after the last series which had some crass language and other annoying things to deal with. It just was sometimes a little unnatural. The worldbuilding was exquisite! Super inspiring and makes me want to go work up my own story. For now, I'm happy reading loveliness like this, though. Just a touch of romance, children were main characters, it's super long and great for one of those days you just want to settle in and stay put. I can't wait for the next book. (How long do I have to wait again?) 4 Stars (And a heart... am I allowed to add hearts to my review?)
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. (It's honest, I promise)
Purchase Link: Amazon
QUOTE: "A few times I was jolted out of the world of the story by a sort of stilted/forced Biblical part. DON'T get me wrong, I'm glad there was a clear Christian worldview in the book.... It just was sometimes a little unnatural."
ReplyDeleteIt's difficult to weave God's Truth into fiction, especially fantasy. Hopefully we as Christian writers can find the balance between fun and faith, and perfect it with practice.
Thanks for your honest review, and for your part in this Blog Tour!
God bless, and Happy Writing,
~R~
P.S.
QUOTE: "I can't wait for the next book. (How long do I have to wait again?)"
I'm hoping to have the first draft of the sequel finished by the end of the year, and aim for the release sometime in 2021 (Lord willing). ;-)