Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Destiny’s Path
By Frewin Jones
Release Date: November 1, 2009

Synopsis: “After an epic battle that left her home in flames and her father dead, Branwen knows that now is the time to follow her Warrior Princess destiny. But she soon finds that those she trusts most are capable of the greatest betrayal.” -GoodReads

Why I’m Waiting: This is the second installment of the Warrior Princess series. I really enjoyed book one, Warrior Princess, and I’m looking forward to seeing what Branwen will be up to now. The first book was loads of fun, well written and I really like Branwen’s character. I do hope this one has a little more romance though! If you haven’t yet, you better hurry and read book one before this one comes out!

The Faerie Path by Frewin Jones

"Swept away into a court of magic and beauty, she discovers she is Tania, the lost princess of Faerie: the youngest daughter of Oberon and Titania. Since Tania's mysterious disappearance on the eve of her wedding five hundred years before, Faerie has been sunk in darkness and gloom. The courtly Lord Gabriel Drake, who Tania was once to marry, has found her and brought her back. With Tania's return, Faerie comes alive again as a land of winged children, glittering balls, and fantastic delights. But Tania can't forget Anita's world, or the boy she loved there. Torn between two loves and between two worlds, Tania slowly comes to discover why she disappeared so long ago. She possesses a singular magical ability and she must use it to stop a sinister plan that threatens the entire world of Faerie." -GoodReads

I’d say that I enjoyed this book, although I was a little confused about what was going on in the beginning, which I guess is what we’re suppose to feel. Anita (Tania) is drifting between two worlds, that of the “mortal world” and the other “faerie world.” At first she thinks she is dreaming and simply decides to go along for the ride. Soon she realizes that it is not a dream and wants to figure out a way to return home, only she doesn’t know which realm is her true home. I enjoyed the story, although I had a sense for what was going to happen early on. It was still a pleasant read and I plan on reading the other books in the series. The romance left a bit to be desired, I didn’t really feel anything for either Gabriel or for Edric. There needs to be a little more tension, chemistry or something in the next books. We’re told that Tania is in love, but I don’t really feel it. Other than that it was an entertaining read and I think others would enjoy it as well.

Book One: The Faerie Path
Book Two: The Lost Queen
Book Three: The Sorcerer King
Book Four: The Immortal Realm

Other Reviews

Always Something To Read

Em's Bookshelf

The Book Muncher

The Story Siren

Warrior Princess by Frewin Jones

“It takes just a moment for fifteen-year-old Branwen’s life to change forever. In the blink of an eye the Saxons attack and her brother is killed. Almost as quickly, she is sent away from her home to a neighboring stronghold where she’ll be safe from harm. Now Branwen lives as a princess should—surrounded by exquisite things and lavish quarters. But deep down remains the soul of a warrior. Just when Branwen is sure she has been pushed to her limits, a chance encounter with a mystical woman in white forces her to question everything—and everyone—around her. With no time to lose, Branwen must make a choice: continue in the path her parents intended for her…or step into the role of true Warrior Princess.” -Book Cover

The word that comes to mind when I think of Branwen is gumption. Her character is full of guts and I love it. When placed in an awkward situation she faces it and says what’s on her mind, instead of quietly internalizing everything and not taking action. I especially love when she confronts Iwan on her first night in Doeth Palas. Anyway, I really enjoyed this book and finished it in one sitting. The story had everything, adventure, bullies, a strange falcon-friend, mystical creatures, powerful gods and a terrific young heroin. It was only lacking in one area, romance. I guess I’m a sap, but I love a little romance in my stories. I suppose there are a few possible suitors for Branwen. Iwan, although arrogant and a jerk, there is some possibility there. Rhodri, the lovable side-kick, and of course her long-time betrothed Hywel. So, I’m hopefully that one of these guys will play a more romantic role in the upcoming books. Other than that, it was a very enjoyable read.

Book One: Warrior Princess

Book Two: Desitiny's Path (November 2009)