Monday, March 30, 2009

Gregor and the Curse of the Warmbloods by Suzanne Collins

“Book Two left off with Gregor reading the Prophecy of Blood: a prophecy that calls for Gregor and Boots to return to the Underland to help ward off a deadly plague. But this time, Gergor’s mother refuses to let him return to the Underland…until the rat Ripred assures the family that Gregor and Boots are just needed for a short meeting, which the crawlers will attend only if their “princess” Boots is present. Gregor’s mom finally relents, on the condition that she go with them. The Underland plague is spreading, and when on e of Gregor’s family is stricken, he begins to understand his role in the Prophecy of Blood, and must summon all his power to end the biological warfare that threatens the warmblooded creatures of the Underland.”

This was another great book in the Underland Chronicles. It was fun reconnecting with favorite characters and meeting some fun new ones as well. We learn a little more history of the Underland and I couldn’t help thinking “can’t we all just get along”. It’s sad to read about all the pointless wars and hatred between the different races in Underland. Hopefully as the series continues they will find a way to live together in peace.

I only gave this one four stars because the format of the story is kind of the same in all the books, at least so far. It starts out in New York where Gregor is brought down to the Underland. At which point he is then sent on a mission to save the “world”. A journey ensues with lots of travel and danger and then they return to the Underland and eventually back to New York. We learn new things and meet new characters, and of course they travel to different places in the Underland, but the format is the same. Still a great, entertaining read and I definitely recommend it to all fantasy lovers. Suzanne Collins is an amazing author. Can’t wait to read part four!

Book One: Gregor the Overlander
Book Two: Prophecy of Bane
Book Three: Curse of the Warmbloods
Book Four: Marks of Secret
Book Five: Code of Claw

Friday, March 27, 2009

Putting People in Your Paintings by Laurel Hart

"No other book provides such clear instruction for putting people into paintings. A lot of books teach artists how to draw portraits or figures, but this book takes that concept one step further, showing readers how to put those people into realistic scenes. It’s never been easier to capture the essence of people, with: 11 step-by-step watercolor demonstrations, featuring interiors, landscapes, cityscapes and more. Inspirational quotes to keep artists motivated and encourage them to put people they care about into their paintings. A look at all the basics: shapes, values, composition, color and watercolor techniques."

I am not an artist, but I still love this book. Laurel is an amazing painter, and I even have some of her artwork in my home. This is a great book and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys painting, or just to look at the pictures. To view more of her work visit her website at www.laureljhart.com or her blog at www.laurelhart.blogspot.com. Below are just a few of her paintings that I just love.
Chateau D'If , France

Copenhagen, Denmark

Carmel Mission , California

"Red Door"

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Queen of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner

“When Eugenides, the Thief of Eddis, stole Hamiathes’s Gift, the Queen of Attolia lost more than a mythical relic. She lost face. Everyone knew that Eugenides had outwitted and escaped her. To restore her reputation and reassert her power, the Queen of Attolia will go to any length and accept any help that is offered…she will risk her country to execute the perfect revenge. Eugenides can steal anything. And he taunts the Queen of Attolia, moving through her strongholds seemingly at will. So Attolia waits, secure in the knowledge that the Thief will slip, that he will haunt her palace one too many times. When Eugenides finds his small mountain country at war with Attolia, he must steal a man, he must steal a queen, he must steal peace. But his greatest triumph—and greatest loss—comes in capturing something the Queen of Attolia thought she had sacrificed long ago…”

Like the first book, this one was a bit slow moving for me. I enjoyed the story, and once I got around half way I didn’t want to stop reading. Eugenides is a great character! He is a cunning thief, has complex emotions with a lot of unknown motives. He is fiercely loyal, and is brilliant in his schemes. His portrayal in this book was great, he suffers greatly at the beginning and he neither overcame his difficulties too quickly, nor did he wallow in self-pity, at least not too much. I’m torn between Queen Attolia and Queen Eddis. Although Attolia comes across as cruel, the more we learn of her the more you grow to care for her and I felt sorry for her.

The “Gods” created in this book are great, and I love the mythology throughout the book. It adds another layer to the story and really brings the story to life. Things were wrapped up nicely in this book and wonder what will happen in The King of Attolia. I think the series would make a great movie, has one been made?

Book One: The Thief
Book Two: Queen of Attolia
Book Three: King of Attolia

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Rumors by Anna Godbersen

“As rumors fly about the untimely demise of new York’s brightest star, Elizabeth Holland, all eyes are on those closest to the dearly departed: her sister, Diana, the family’s only hope for redemption; Henry Schoonmaker, the flame Elizabeth never extinguished; Penelope Hayes, poised to claim all that her best friend left behind; even Elizabeth’s former maid, Lina Broud, who discovers that while money matters and breeding counts, gossip is the new currency.”

I enjoyed this book as much as the first. It is a definite page-turner, and I actually grew to like some of the characters a lot more than I had in the first book. Having read reviews of all three books I kind of had an idea of what was going to happen, but it was still fun to read and see how everything plays out. I’m now a fan of Diana & Henry and hope that somehow things can work out for them. Penelope is still awful! I almost feel sorry for her, she probably could have anyone she wants, but don’t you want someone that actually wants you back? As for Lina, wow! I just don’t like that girl and its sad to see how far she has fallen (although in her mind she seems to be rising). I hope that she learns some lessons and that “what goes around comes around.” And last but not least, Elizabeth. For some reason she is still kind of a mystery to me. I don’t really feel one way or the other. Her character is suppose to be so loved and likable, but she does nothing for me. The ending has left me wondering what is going to happen with Elizabeth, I’m hoping she gets some personality and is a little more fun to read about.

Book One: The Luxe
Book Two: Rumors
Book Three: Envy
Book Four: Splendor

Friday, March 20, 2009

The Luxe by Anna Godbersen

“Beautiful sisters Elizabeth and Diana Holland rule Manhattan’s social scene. Or so it appears. When the girls discover their status among New York City’s elite is far from secure, suddenly everyone—from the backstabbing socialite Penelope Hayes, to the debonair bachelor Henry Schoonmaker, to the spiteful maid Lina Broud—threatens Elizabeth’s and Diana’s golden future. With the fate of the Hollands resting on her shoulders, Elizabeth must choose between family duty and true love. But when her carriage overturns near the East River, the girl whose glittering life lit up the city’s gossip pages is swallowed by the rough current. As all of New York grieves, some begin to wonder whether life at the top proved too much for this ethereal beauty, or if, perhaps, someone wanted to see Manhattan’s most celebrated daughter disappear…”

Where do I begin? I’m almost embarrassed to admit this, but I actually really enjoyed this book. It’s full of romance (maybe a little too much romance), mystery, a large helping of jealousy and of course, betrayal. It is defiantly a book that I couldn’t put down and when I wasn’t reading it I was thinking about it. I normally don’t care for stories that jump around from more than two points of view, but in this case it was rather entertaining to see all the drama going on, and all the misunderstandings. There is no way I can write this review without giving away some spoilers, so I would recommend reading the book ASAP and then read my review.

The story follows the lives of five different characters, Elizabeth, her sister Diana, Henry, Penelope and Lina (Elizabeth’s maid). They all seem to have the concept of love and lust confused, and for some reason they all seem to hate Elizabeth for really no reason other than jealousy.

Lina. The cover describes her perfectly: Spiteful. Throughout the book I just wanted to yell “HE’S NOT INTO YOU”. Lina has built up this non-existent relationship with Will (another employee of the Hollands) and when she finds out that he and Elizabeth have a relationship she of course thinks that Elizabeth has somehow tricked him. Lina drove me crazy and I think she’s a little pathetic. I hope that she turns herself around in the following books. Get over Will and find someone who actually loves you.

Penelope. What a horrible, spoiled little girl. She is completely caught up in herself and her own little world. She has a secret relationship with Henry and when Henry proposes to her best friend Elizabeth, she of course hates Elizabeth and doesn’t even get mad at him. Her character reminded me exactly of Olivia on MTV’s The City.

Henry. Oh, Henry. What is it about guys like Henry? He is completely spoiled, lazy, irresponsible, a complete womanizer and yet all the girls want him? He really drove me crazy the entire time. For me he had little redeeming quality and yet by the end of the book I kind of liked him. All along I thought he was chasing after Diana because she was something he couldn’t have, but I am starting to think that maybe he does have feelings for her. This still doesn’t make it right because he is marrying her sister! That is just gross and wrong on so many levels.

Diana. At first I didn’t like Diana. She came across as very young and irresponsible, especially when she was actually excited to find out that her family was poor. She doesn’t really have a grasp on reality. Also, she goes after her sister’s fiancĂ© and doesn’t seem to have a conscience. I was glad toward the end when she finally started to have remorse and to start to think of her family and not just herself.

Elizabeth. She is still a total mystery to me. From her point of view she is almost two different people. She is constantly trying to please everyone around her, especially her demanding mother and is sacrificing herself for her family. On the other hand she is deeply in love with Will and shows a carefree side when she is with him. Most of the time I thought she was kind of boring.
Reading Order:
Book One: Luxe
Book Two: Rumors
Book Three: Envy
Book Four: Splendor

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Rise of the Evening Star by Brandon Mull

“At the end of the school year, Kendra and her brother, Seth, find themselves racing back to Fablehaven, a refuge for mythical and magical creatures. Grandpa Sorenson, the caretaker, invites three specialists—a potion master, a magical relics collector, and a mystical creature trapper—to help protect the property from the Society of the Evening Star, an ancient organization determined to infiltrate the preserve and steal a hidden artifact of great power Time is running out. The Evening Star is storming the gates. If the artifact falls into the wrong hands, it could mean the downfall of other preserves and possible the world. Will Kendra learn to use her fairy gifts in time? Will Seth stay out of trouble? Can they overcome paralyzing fear?”

I first stumbled upon Fablehaven about seven months ago, and really enjoyed the story. I decided I should probably read the second book and was quickly caught up in the story once again. Rise of the Evening Star was a very enjoyable, if not a bit long, read. A lot happens in this 431 page book. It is full of fun, humor, adventure, betrayal, loss and learning. I am a big fan of Kendra and Seth, both are very unique but equally likable characters. Brandon Mull is a great storyteller and has created a great new world full of imagination. Although it isn’t really anything like the Harry Potter series, I think if you like Harry Potter you will love Fablehaven.

Book One: Fablehaven
Book Two: Rise of the Evening Star
Book Three: Grip of the Shadow Plague
Book Four: Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary
Book Five: (I heard there is a 5th book, but don’t know the title yet.)

Monday, March 16, 2009

The Giver by Lois Lowry

"’It was almost December and Jonas was beginning to be frightened.’ Thus opens this haunting novel in which a boy inherits a seemingly ideal world: a world without conflict, poverty, unemployment, divorce, injustice, or inequality. It is a time in which family values are paramount, teenage rebellion is unheard of, and even good manners are a way of life. December is the time of the annual Ceremony at which each twelve year old receives a life assignment. Jonas has been chosen for something special. When his selection leads him to an unnamed man—the man called only The Giver—he begins to sense the dark secrets that underlie the fragile perfection of his world.”

Sometimes I am surprised when I pick up a book at the library and the cover is totally different than what I was expecting. Some books have a lot of different editions or re-printings. So, for this reason I wasn’t that surprised when I picked up my copy of The Giver and it had a totally different cover than what I have previously seen if. A lot of my friends have read and recommended this book to me and as I started reading I was really surprised and started to question why they thought I would be interested in this book. You see, the book I checked out was called The Giver, but it was by an author named Lynn Hall NOT Lois Lowry. The book I had checked out by mistake was (and I only read a little ways into it) about a high school student who falls in love with her teacher. Needless to say after I got a few pages in I did a double check online and realized I had picked up the wrong book. Since then, I have been a lot more careful when ordering a book from the library!

Finally, I received the correct book and was excited to see what all the hoopla was about. I had a vague idea about what the book was about, but was still surprised with the story. The writing was exceptional; you totally get sucked into the story and of course love Jonas and The Giver. It totally makes you grateful for God’s plan, and for His gift of free agency. Although life can be hard and bad things happen it is so worth it for all the good in the world. There is far more good than bad, and freedom is so important. I won’t get on my soapbox, but I will say this book really gives you perspective.

It reminded me a bit of the movie The Village, where a few people who had suffered greatly decide the world has gone out of control and decides to set up their own community. It also reminded me a bit of the book Ella Minnow Pea. In that story the town elders have all the decision making ability and pretty much go out of control. We see this in The Giver, where they even take away color, weather, or love. They go overboard and take way all the good things as well as all the bad.

I would probably rate this a 4.5, I would have given the book a full five stars, but I was completely dissatisfied with the ending, there was no closure. I would have liked to see more of what happens with Jonas and the people of his community. I still recommend this to everyone, it’s a great quick read and totally worth it. I look forward to reading Gathering Blue and Messenger (which I’ve been told are companion books to The Gift).

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Dragon Flight by Jessica Day George

“In her last adventure, Creel talked her way out of a dragon’s clutches. Then she talked her way into a job as a seamstress, caught the eye of a prince, foiled a diabolical princess’s plans to take over a country, and, oh yes, was named Heroine of the Dragon Wars for her troubles. Now, with the Dragon Wars over, Creel is back to work as a seamstress. Business is steady and life is good, but it’s also a bit…dull. So when word comes that a bordering country has been training dragons for an imminent invasion, Creel throws herself into the line of duty again. After all, joining forces with dragons, rekindling a friendship with the prince who captured her heart, and maybe—just maybe—saving the day has got to be more fun than sewing dresses for some snooty duchess, right?”

I was pleasantly surprised when I received an email informing me that my copy of Dragon Flight had come in at the library. Luckily, my husband had to go into work today so I was able to curl up and continue the story of Creel and her dragon friends. I was a bit nervous to start, wondering if I would like it as much as the first, and was pleased when I started reading and things picked up right where we left off. The story was original and full of adventure. It was a great sequel and again draws you into the wonderful world of Feravel. Creel is charming as ever, and you fall in love with her best friend Marta. My only complaint is that the relationship between Creel and Luka is not used enough, or at least I didn’t feel like there was enough interaction between them. It’s said that they correspond through letter, and in some parts of the book they are together, but it felt a little lacking. I am very eager to read the third book and hope that Luke and Creel will be together more.

Book One: Dragon Slippers
Book Two: Dragon Flight
Book Three: Dragon Spear (released May 12, 2009)

The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner

“The kind’s scholar, the magus, believes he knows the site of an ancient treasure. To attain it for his king, he needs a skillful thief, and he selects Gen from the king’s prison. The magus is interested only in the thief’s abilities. What Gen is interested in is anyone’s guess. Their journey toward the treasure is both dangerous and difficult, lightened only imperceptibly by the tales they tell of the old gods and goddesses.”

I’m not sure what to make of this book. I went into it with really high expectations, which usually is never a good thing. The first half the book kind of dragged for me, a lot of time was spent with the characters traveling to their destination. Once they finally arrived at their destination things started to pick up and I ended up really enjoying the story. The second half was much better and now that I know what happens I think it would be fun to re-read the beginning to see what clues I may have missed along the way. I think since this is the first book in a trilogy a lot of time was spent on back story, which will probably pay off in the next two books.

I might have missed it, but does it ever say how old Gen is? That was a little confusing for me, I probably just missed it, but it would have been nice to have an age to go on. Another small complaint is that there are no female characters in the whole book (expect the last couple chapters). I hear the next books are even better so I’m looking forward to reading them.

Book One: The Thief
Book Two: Queen of Attolia
Book Three: King of Attolia

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George

“Many stories tell of damsels in distress who are rescued from the clutches of fire-breathing dragons by knights in shining armor and swept off to live happily ever after. Unfortunately, this is not one of those stories. True, when Creel’s aunt suggests sacrificing her to the local dragon, it is with the hope that a knight will marry Creel and that everyone (aunt and family included) will benefit handsomely. Yet it’s Creel who talks her way out of the dragon’s clutches. And it’s Creel who walks for days on end to seek her fortune in the king’s city with only a bit of embroidery thread and a strange pair of slippers in her possession. But even Creel could not have guessed the outcome of this tale. For in a country on the verge of war, Creel unknowingly possesses not just any pair of shoes, but a tool that could be used to save her kingdom…or destroy it.”

Fantastic! I absolutely loved this book and am a huge fan of Jessica George’s work. I am in eager anticipation of picking up the sequel to this book, Dragon Flight, as soon as possible. It’s been awhile since I stayed up late at night to finish a book, which I had to do for Dragon Slippers. I couldn’t sleep until I knew what happened. I am normally not a huge fan of dragons. I love fairy tales and fantasy novels, but for some reason I have never really liked dragon stories. This book has made me change my mind. I loved the dragons in this story; they had great personality and were presented in a new and refreshing view. As for our heroin Creel, I loved her. She was witty, smart, fun, and endearing. I just hated her name! I hate writing that, but I really didn’t love the name “Creel”. That sounded more like a name for a dragon then our heroine, I kind of nicknamed her CC in my mind (her full name is Creelisel Carlburn). And our young prince Luka was very likable, charming, and has a big heart. He and Creel have great chemistry, and although a romance wasn’t the main theme of the book, I’m hoping that something will develop in the rest of the trilogy. Everyone should read this book!

Book One: Dragon Slippers
Book Two: Dragon Flight
Book Three: Dragon Spear

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Aurelia by Anne Osterlund

“Aurelia, the crown princess of Tyralt, wants control over her own life. Robert, her former classmate, wants Aurelia. And someone wants her…dead. There have been several narrowly escaped attempts to assassinate the princess, but the king has no desire to incite panic by making the information public. Instead, Robert, the son of the king’s former royal spy, is allowed into the inner circle to secretly investigate and watch over Aurelia. Robert is determined to help, if only Aurelia would let him! But the princess will not heed the danger around her, and she does not need Robert to save her. Just as their friendship begins to grow into something more, the threat on Aurelia’s life becomes paramount. With everything possible on the line—her life, her kingdom, her heart—Aurelia must take matters into her own hands, whatever the cost.”

I have mixed feeling about this book. I was first drawn to it by the beautiful cover and the story sounded intriguing. I enjoyed the mystery (although, it was fairly obvious) and the relationship between Robert and Aurelia. The ending felt a bit rushed and left me wanting more. I try not to give spoilers in reviews, but it’s unavoidable with this one. So I will just say that throughout the story we hear how Aurelia’s mother left when she was just a little girl, the king leading her to believe that she had abandoned them. When Aurelia learns the truth I was hoping that she would be resolved to go in search of her mother, but there was nothing. There was a huge lack of emotion of Aurelia and again I was hoping that the path she chose at the end would be one in search of her mother, not adventure. There wasn’t any sense of justice for those involved, and it seemed that Aurelia just gives up what is rightfully hers to pursue her own life. This is odd because she claims to really want to know and help her people.

I read somewhere that this may be the start of a trilogy; I am hoping that is the case. Maybe some of my concerns will be answered in other books. This was Anne Osterlunds first novel, it is exciting to read someone first work, I do look forward to seeing what she comes up with next.

Saturday, March 7, 2009

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

“A magical retelling of the Grimm’s fairy tale of the princess who became a goose girl before she could become queen. Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, is born with the ability to speak to animals, a gift that is nurtured by her aunt. When the king dies, the queen announces that Ani's younger brother, not the crown princess, will succeed her on the throne. Unbeknownst to anyone, the queen has promised Ani in marriage to the prince of neighboring Bayern. The devastated teen is sent with a retinue over the mountains to Bayem and is betrayed by Selia, her lady-in-waiting, and most of her guards during the journey. Ani escapes, takes the name "Isi," disguises her distinctive blonde hair, and becomes a tender of geese to survive until she can reveal her true identity and reclaim her crown from the imposter, Selia. She must convince the king of her identity and stop a war between the kingdoms.”

I have actually read this book a few times, but this was the first time I had listened to it on audio book. I am preparing for a race and a friend recommended listening to audio books, so I chose Goose Girl because it is one of my favorites. It was almost like listening to a play. I loved hearing all the different voices; they really brought the story to life. It has been awhile since I’ve read the book so listening to it really brought back all the things I loved about the story. It’s an amazing fairy tale filled with love, adventure, and self discovery. Ani starts out very unsure of herself, always living in the shadow of her mother. As the story progresses she finds inner-strength and confidence through her experiences and having to become more independent. I love this series and am so excited to find out that there will be a fourth book coming out later this year. Now, I’m off to listen to Enna Burning.

Book One: The Goose Girl
Book Two: Enna Burning
Book Three: River Secrets
Book Four: Forest Born

Friday, March 6, 2009

Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane by Suzanne Collins

“In the months since Gregor first encountered the strange Underland beneath New York City, he’s sworn he won’t ever go back. But when another prophecy, this time about an ominous white rat known as the Bane, calls for Gregor’s help, the Underlanders know the one way they can get his attention is through his little sister, Boots. Now Gregor’s quest reunites him with his bat, Ares, the rebellious princess Luxa, and new allies and sends them through the dangerous and deadly Waterway in search of the Bane. Then Gregor must face the possibility of his greatest loss yet, and make life and death choices that will determine the future of the Underland.”

This was the second book in the Underland Chronicles, and it was just as amazing as the first. Suzanne Collins has a wonderful way of sucking you into a story and making you fall in love with her characters. This book was full of adventure with a lot of the old characters that we loved from the first book and also introduces some new friends. The book has a satisfying ending and yet also kind of leaves you on a cliffhanger. I want to find out the mystery behind Mrs. Cormaci and also what happens to some of his friends. I am looking forward to reading the next book.


Book One: Gregor the Overlander
Book Two: Gregor and the Prophecy of Bane
Book Three: Gregor and the Curse of the Warmbloods
Book Four: Gregor and the Marks of Secret
Book Five: Gregor and the Code of Claw

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

“Princess Rose is the eldest of twelve sisters condemned to dance each night for the wicked King Under Stone in his palace deep within the earth. It is a curse that has haunted the girls since their birth—and only death will set them free. Then Rose meets Galen, a young soldier-turned-gardener with an eye for adventure and a resolve that matches her own, and freedom suddenly begins to seem a little less impossible. To defeat the king and his dark court, they will need one invisibility cloak, a black wool chain knit with enchanted silver needles, and the most critical ingredient of all—true love.”

This is my second Jessica Day George book, and I have to say I am definitely a fan. This is a retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses. It was full of mystery, magic, romance and intrigue. What first drew me to this book was the beautiful cover, and of course the fact that it was based on a fairy tale. I enjoyed that the story was told from a few different viewpoints, in that way we are really able to see and understand what is going on throughout the story. Galen is a great character, who is instantly likable and charming. I love a strong male hero who stays true to himself and is kind, has integrity and is brave. I equally liked Rose. She was smart and strong, yet not too strong to where she wasn’t believable. It was a very entertaining read, and I am looking forward to reading “Dragon Slippers”, which I think was George’s first book.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Princess of the Sword by Lynn Kurland

“As the mercenary daughter of Gair, the black mage of Ceangail, Morgan is the only one who can stop the terrible sorcery her father unleashed. To do so, she must race against time and find the spell that will allow her to close the well of evil he opened. But that quest will lead her to places she never dreamed existed and into a darkness she would give anything to avoid. The fate of the kingdom of Neroche is intertwined with the closing of Gair’s well. Miach, the archmage of Neroche, is determined to help Morgan find what she needs, not only because the safety of the Nine Kingdoms hangs in the balance but also because he will do anything to protect her. Together they must search out the mysteries of Ceangail, and the dangers of Morgan’s own bloodline. Now to rescue the kingdom from total ruin, Morgan and Miach have only each other to trust, heart and soul.”

This is the final book in the Nine Kingdom trilogy, which follows the story of Mhorgain (Morgan) and Mochriadhemiach (Miach). I loved the first two books in the series, and was really looking forward to the release of this final book. When I finally got my hands on a copy I was reluctant to start, I actually put it off for a couple weeks because I didn’t want to story to end. Overall, I did enjoy this book, but not as much as the first two. At times it seemed it was a bit repetitive and dragged along. It was a book that I didn’t have a problem putting down, and at times I felt like I was forcing myself to finish. Also, when certain people died I didn’t feel like there was much grief, I thought that was sad and unrealistic. I liked how the story ended up and it was a nice conclusion to their story and things were tied up nicely. I think it’s a fun adult fantasy series and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good clean romance/adventure.



Book One: Star of the Morning
Book Two: Mage's Daughter
Book Three: Princess of the Sword