Twelve Nights

In Illthdar, there are several holidays. Some unique to the planet that logic and reason forgot, some less so. In Guardians of Las, the characters experience Solstice - a three day non stop event. After Solstice comes Year Turning, which is the equivalent of our New Year's Eve and day. The next holiday is like Valentine's Day, only worse: Twelve Nights.

Not to be confused with twelfth night, twelve nights is tied to imbolc on Illthdar. Lovers will sometimes exchange or surprise their partners with quality gifts. That is to say, gifts meant to represent certain qualities for the day or either person in the relationship.

As you might imagine, a lot of symbolism goes into the eleven days leading up to imbolc. People may use all manner of materials to convey a message, but traditionally Illthdarians use plants and flowers.

A word of caution, however: not all plants have the same meaning as humans know them. A fine example of this is the clover, for many it means luck, but giving or receiving one means "be mine" on Illthdar.

The next holiday on Illthdar is Ostara, a celebration of mothers and children.

Like it? Want to read more? The first book in the Illthdar series is available for pre-order on Amazon now.

Alternatively, you can also order directly from Feedaread.

Happy Year Turning!

In Illthdar, there are several holidays. Some unique to the planet that logic and reason forgot, some less so. In Guardians of Las, the characters experience Solstice - a three day non stop event. After Solstice comes Year Turning, which is the equivalent of our New Year's Eve and day.

Now, in the city of Las, with the dominant religion being crystal worshippers, most people pilgrimage to the Order of Mana to pay a visit to the giant yellow crystal they protect - called Vvekw.

Why is it called Vvekw and not Mana? Well Mana is the name of the goddess said to have made the planet and everything on it. Vvekw is just one of a few special "children" of the goddess and acts as her representative for the island.

Other things people will do is have their fortunes told by one or more of the many types of fortune tellers who set up shop in the market at this time of the year. One of the most popular is tarot card reading in a format called Arianrhod's Wheel - a spread with three cards for each quarter of the year and a lone card in the centre to represent the querent.

As the year progresses, I'll post information on each of the holidays in the Illthdarian calendar. The next one is Twelve Nights.

Twelve Nights

In Illthdar, there are several holidays. Some unique to the planet that logic and reason forgot, some less so. In Guardians of Las, the characters experience Solstice - a three day non stop event. After Solstice comes Year Turning, which is the equivalent of our New Year's Eve and day. The next holiday is like Valentine's Day, only worse: Twelve Nights.

Not to be confused with twelfth night, twelve nights is tied to imbolc on Illthdar. Lovers will sometimes exchange or surprise their partners with quality gifts. That is to say, gifts meant to represent certain qualities for the day or either person in the relationship.

As you might imagine, a lot of symbolism goes into the eleven days leading up to imbolc. People may use all manner of materials to convey a message, but traditionally Illthdarians use plants and flowers.

A word of caution, however: not all plants have the same meaning as humans know them. A fine example of this is the clover, for many it means luck, but giving or receiving one means "be mine" on Illthdar.

The next holiday on Illthdar is Ostara, a celebration of mothers and children.

Like it? Want to read more? The first book in the Illthdar series is available for pre-order on Amazon now.

Alternatively, you can also order directly from Feedaread.

Happy Year Turning!

In Illthdar, there are several holidays. Some unique to the planet that logic and reason forgot, some less so. In Guardians of Las, the characters experience Solstice - a three day non stop event. After Solstice comes Year Turning, which is the equivalent of our New Year's Eve and day.

Now, in the city of Las, with the dominant religion being crystal worshippers, most people pilgrimage to the Order of Mana to pay a visit to the giant yellow crystal they protect - called Vvekw.

Why is it called Vvekw and not Mana? Well Mana is the name of the goddess said to have made the planet and everything on it. Vvekw is just one of a few special "children" of the goddess and acts as her representative for the island.

Other things people will do is have their fortunes told by one or more of the many types of fortune tellers who set up shop in the market at this time of the year. One of the most popular is tarot card reading in a format called Arianrhod's Wheel - a spread with three cards for each quarter of the year and a lone card in the centre to represent the querent.

As the year progresses, I'll post information on each of the holidays in the Illthdarian calendar. The next one is Twelve Nights.

The first book in the Illthdar series, Guardians of Las, is out now:

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

The second book, Into The North, is anticipated to be released in 2021

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Now is a great time to buy Illthdar: Guardians of Las. Why? Because the profits of all purchases of it between now and the end of August 2020 will be donated to Gendered Intelligence.

In response to Jk Rowling's anti-trans statements, as well as the need for change highlighted by the black lives matter movement. As an advocate for change, I am always prepared to use my platform and privilege to amplify great causes and support underrepresented groups.

Why is Gendered Intelligence important? They're a not-for-profit organisation in the UK that, among other things, provides support to trans people of colour.

If you're unable to help support the cause, I do hope you will join me by signal boosting and sharing the news so that as many people as possible can help contribute.

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx

Illthdar - Guardians of Las Review!

@illthdar​ generously sent me a copy of her book, Illthdar, Guardians of Las earlier this semester and I finished it the other day! It took me a while to finish, not out of lack of interest, just because I’ve been busy. Here are my thoughts!

Blurb: 

“Illthdar: the land that logic and reason forgot. A place where every fairytale exists, and not in harmony. Pulled there by a mysterious force, Zercey Stamos learns that she is part faery must join the Order of Mana. The religious protectors of the sacred crystal are fighting to save everyone from mana waste. None of the displaced humans or aliens can leave. The Order does not want them to leave.”

Compliments:

This book has excellent world building and characters. A lot of thought clearly went into the development of Illthdar and the diverse cast; there’s a lot to the planet of Illthdar and I expect even more will be revealed in coming books. The magic system is well-constructed with clearly defined limitations, which I always appreciate, and is fun! The different types of magic and physical appearances depicted in the book create what I can best describe as visual interest (not sure what the right word is for a book). Each character had a distinct personality, motivation, and voice, which is especially important with a relatively large cast. Garcia used classic tropes while adding unique twists and traits that helped them come to life rather than feeling canned. The writing is skillful in terms of sentence structure, active voice, etc, and uses artful prose appropriately.

Critiques:

As for critiques, the pacing in the beginning felt a little fast to me and I would have liked to get a better sense of Zercey as a character before going to Illthdar. A few of the descriptions confused me or didn’t give me a clear picture, though overall they were clear. The shifts in POV felt too fast for me at points. A range of emotions is represented throughout the book, but I think at times it could have been pushed further, especially considering some of the situations the characters are in (though I am sensitive and dramatic so my taste may not reflect most people’s thoughts). I also would have liked to see more of an arch in the plot; I expect the purpose of this book is setting the world and characters for the rest of a series, which it did well, but I felt there could have been a clearer rising action and climax. Still, the book maintained my interest.

Overall:

This book was fun, well developed, and had refreshing representation. While I have critiques, I would absolutely recommend it for fans of fantasy or anyone looking for an interesting, semi-lighthearted read. I look forward to the rest of the series!

Link for Purchase:

($12.95? That’s damn near free, can’t afford not to buy it!)

https://www.feedaread.com/books/Illthdar-Guardians-of-Las-9781839451508.aspx