'This is a enticing short story introduction to Beaumont's world, and a nice way to sample her fantasy vision for those who haven't read her much-lauded novels. Though a very short read, the story is full of drama, passion, and a touch of humor as well. Beaumont's strength as a fantasy writer is being able to take long-lost forgotten (or never-were) worlds and translating them to the present. The dialogue and perspectives of the characters are not far removed from a modern romance novel or a scene from a romantic comedy, perhaps; and yet, this gives the fantasy world a deep humanity that belies the swords and sorcery that surrounds it. |
'My only slight quibble would be that parts of it read a little too conventionally, and though beautifully written, it doesn't seem to stand up as a short story exactly. It reads more like a colorful episode in a longer work, and as a story it leaves the reader with a sense of wondering why it needed to be a stand-alone work (you sense there's something missing, or a story line that needs to continue). I imagine that this would make a fine Prologue or Interlude to a larger work, and that connective tissue would make its characters stand out in greater relief. But this is a minor issue and as long as you can read this story as part of a larger universe, rather than a stand-alone work, I think it will bring you great satisfaction (all the more so if you've read her other novels).'
Review posted on Amazon.com by Joshua Grasso
Blurb: Every great series has a beginning. Teenage Asher discovers that he has fallen in love with his best friend's girl. Can the dragons survive the tempest of emotions that ensue? Parental guidance recommended for young readers due to sensual and violent content. The highly acclaimed story is now available on Amazon for just 99 cents. Discover the world of Reloria today. |