Status
Available
Call number
Publication
O'Brien Press Ltd (2008), 480 pages
Description
When young Wynter Moorehawke returns to court with her dying father, she finds her old home shadowed with fear. The king has become a violent despot, terrorizing those he once loved. His son and heir Alberon has fled into exile and now there are whispers everywhere of rebellion. Meanwhile, Alberon's half-brother Razi has been elevated to his throne. He struggles to meet his King's demands while remaining loyal to his beloved brother and to his friend Wynter. Now she must choose -- her father or her dreams, her friend or her king, her duty or her love.
User reviews
LibraryThing member amanderson
Billed as YA, but felt more to me like an adult fantasy novel with YA characters, set in a medieval feeling time period, with talking cats and ghosts added on. It's slow moving, well written, but grim and all about court intrigue, politics, and relationships between the five main characters. The
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novel begins when fifteen year old Wynter Moorehawke returns with her very ill but charismatic father Lorcan to her home kingdom. Her father, a master carpenter, raised her as his apprentice despite her gender. They evidently left for political reasons; they are excited to return to their well-ordered, kindly run kingdom, except unfortunately when they arrive they find that it appears the king - Lorcan's friend - has gone somewhat bonkers and is having lots of people killed. The cats are mostly slaughtered as potential spies; people who talk to the ghosts get gibbeted; Wynter's two childhood princely best friends are also in trouble, it seems. Crown prince Alberon has disappeared and has perhaps rebelled against his father for some reason; bastard prince Razi is being unwillingly forced by his father into the crown prince position and the rest of the court thinks he is a mixed race usurper. Razi's intense and handsome new friend Christopher, a newcomer to the kingdom, also features in the story, as a rival for Razi's attention, then potential love interest for Wynter, and a danger to all as he doesn't understand the intricate court intrigue yet is a loyal and somewhat mysterious friend. Wynter tries to navigate through the politics and to survive mostly by herself, since her father is too ill to be very helpful. Is the king truly crazy, or is this some big political intrigue he has been forced into, or both? We don't know, and this is the first book of a trilogy so the plot is left hanging. However I don't think I'll be picking up number two. I like a faster moving story and less focus on intrigue and murder/torture and unexplained politics. Show Less
LibraryThing member renkellym
It took me a bit to put my finger on what The Poison Throne WAS. It seemed like it would be a typical fantasy with some court intrigue, but it kind of wasn’t. There were ghosts and talking cats, but that’s as far as the supernatural elements went. The plot consisted thickly of the inner
I definitely wouldn’t call it a genre book, which is what I was expecting.
The story revolves around a very mature 15-year-old girl and her 30-something year-old dying father. Again, another defiance to the “genre”. If a fantasy features a young character, typically said character ages rapidly through the novel. Wynter, the protagonist, didn’t. She stayed 15 the whole way through.
I suppose one of my favorite things about The Poison Throne was that it was not a typical fantasy. I enjoyed reading about the crumble of a kingdom and the slow maddening of a king, though no mysteries were solved (it’s a trilogy, sigh). Wynter was a fabulous protagonist (though she is young, she is strong and is almost an expert at dealing with people, an important part of life at court), and the other characters were solid as well.
The only complaint I might have is that the story’s flow was a bit slow. *shrug*
(Originally posted to 365 Days of Reading)
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workings of a kingdom in a place far, far away. Or actually not so far away, as the author says the setting would be somewhere in Europe.I definitely wouldn’t call it a genre book, which is what I was expecting.
The story revolves around a very mature 15-year-old girl and her 30-something year-old dying father. Again, another defiance to the “genre”. If a fantasy features a young character, typically said character ages rapidly through the novel. Wynter, the protagonist, didn’t. She stayed 15 the whole way through.
I suppose one of my favorite things about The Poison Throne was that it was not a typical fantasy. I enjoyed reading about the crumble of a kingdom and the slow maddening of a king, though no mysteries were solved (it’s a trilogy, sigh). Wynter was a fabulous protagonist (though she is young, she is strong and is almost an expert at dealing with people, an important part of life at court), and the other characters were solid as well.
The only complaint I might have is that the story’s flow was a bit slow. *shrug*
(Originally posted to 365 Days of Reading)
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LibraryThing member wyvernfriend
While there were parts of this story that didn't quite grab me mostly it impressed me for a first novel. There were bits that faltered but it won't stop me from looking for book 2.
The story of Wynter, fifteen, daughter of Protector Lord Lorean Moorehawke and former King's Cat-Keeper, woodworking
Wynter is caught, her father is seriously ill, Razi, the next in line for the throne is in serious trouble and she's worried about what's going to happen next.
I particularly loved the small details of woodworking that crept into the story occasionally. Being a woodworkers daughter those little details really spoke to me.
It's a historical past that never was with aspects that suggest magic but don't state it, there is good potential here for a good series. A little more polish will make her a very good read.
The story of Wynter, fifteen, daughter of Protector Lord Lorean Moorehawke and former King's Cat-Keeper, woodworking
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apprentice to her father. Sent for five years to the Northlands she returns to find that all is not as it was. King Jonathan's realm has become a bleak place with conspiracy, torture and suspicion. The cats are gone. Talking to ghosts could get you killed and the Crown Prince is missing.Wynter is caught, her father is seriously ill, Razi, the next in line for the throne is in serious trouble and she's worried about what's going to happen next.
I particularly loved the small details of woodworking that crept into the story occasionally. Being a woodworkers daughter those little details really spoke to me.
It's a historical past that never was with aspects that suggest magic but don't state it, there is good potential here for a good series. A little more polish will make her a very good read.
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LibraryThing member hypatia_lea
I only bought this as something to read for a train-trip not expecting to like it at all ... and was very pleasantly surprised at how quickly I was absorbed into the world of Wynter and her friends.
I am very glad to find that Book 2 has already been released and that Book 3 in the series is to be
I think the only disappointing thing I found with this book is something I find with many books written from the point of view of a teenager - which is that although Wynter is 15 years old she comes across with the self-assurance, the insight and self-reflection of someone 10 or more years older.
I am very glad to find that Book 2 has already been released and that Book 3 in the series is to be
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released later this year :)I think the only disappointing thing I found with this book is something I find with many books written from the point of view of a teenager - which is that although Wynter is 15 years old she comes across with the self-assurance, the insight and self-reflection of someone 10 or more years older.
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LibraryThing member MelHay
Wynter, fifteen, and Lorcan, her father of age thirty-three but shaking like a man much older, have just returned from the five year station in the North helping King Jonathon with relations. Wynter is a female apprenticing her father and doing extremely well in a mans trade, carpentery. Once they
Thinking back to what caught my attention... There are the questions I had to the mysteries, and I am still thinking on. I am not sure what has truly happened to change things so much. Along with why beloved Heir, Prince Alberon, left as what seems unexpectedly and no sign of where he went. But it appears as something between him and his father King Jonathon to be the reason for his leaving, and an even bigger issue. 'The Bloody Machine.' I don't know what it is or what it does or why are they so worried about it. But along with the mysteries, I think the characters kept me coming back.
I love the character development and the relationships in this story. There are a few secondary creatures, which I did not expect to find, but loved them and found myself wanting to read more of them. I love all the characters; Wynter, Lorcan, Razi, Christopher, and all the secondary characters, and now I need to know what befalls them. I even get the feel the world we get to know is created from these characters. It seems the characters all know of different parts of the world being of different age ranges too, and as they tell of their experiences and knowledge you see the world through their eyes and what the world is that Celine has created. The situations the characters get into and out of, and the reactions they have to the different situations and each other when trying to protect each other maked me love them even more.
I am not sure who is up to what or why. Of course I have my suspecions and ideas but I'm not really sure. But I felt the people where doing what they perceived to be the right thing, wheither good or bad, for themself or the people.
I am looking forward to the future installments of this trilogy. I am curious where Wynter will lead to. With the choose of staying with her dieing father to the end, following her friend who may need help, or finding the peoples beloved heir to the throne.
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are home and Wynter is wondering around, she learns things are rather stressed around the castle. Things are aloft here. There are creatures they are forbidden to talk to, the heir Alberon has left with no traces as to where he is, Razi the kings bastard-son and close friend to Wynter and Alberon has been named to take the beloved Alberon's place and the people are not happy. Then to add to the mix Wynter's father Lorcan is rather ill and is not to leave his bed to help, and is getting worse.Thinking back to what caught my attention... There are the questions I had to the mysteries, and I am still thinking on. I am not sure what has truly happened to change things so much. Along with why beloved Heir, Prince Alberon, left as what seems unexpectedly and no sign of where he went. But it appears as something between him and his father King Jonathon to be the reason for his leaving, and an even bigger issue. 'The Bloody Machine.' I don't know what it is or what it does or why are they so worried about it. But along with the mysteries, I think the characters kept me coming back.
I love the character development and the relationships in this story. There are a few secondary creatures, which I did not expect to find, but loved them and found myself wanting to read more of them. I love all the characters; Wynter, Lorcan, Razi, Christopher, and all the secondary characters, and now I need to know what befalls them. I even get the feel the world we get to know is created from these characters. It seems the characters all know of different parts of the world being of different age ranges too, and as they tell of their experiences and knowledge you see the world through their eyes and what the world is that Celine has created. The situations the characters get into and out of, and the reactions they have to the different situations and each other when trying to protect each other maked me love them even more.
I am not sure who is up to what or why. Of course I have my suspecions and ideas but I'm not really sure. But I felt the people where doing what they perceived to be the right thing, wheither good or bad, for themself or the people.
I am looking forward to the future installments of this trilogy. I am curious where Wynter will lead to. With the choose of staying with her dieing father to the end, following her friend who may need help, or finding the peoples beloved heir to the throne.
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LibraryThing member reading_fox
Interesting début new fantasy from a longtime Irish graphical artist. Both the title and the cover art are somewhat misleading in terms of expectations about the plot, but once you've realised this it is an entertaining tale. The opening premise is not novel - returning home to discover that
Wynter Moorehawke is a carpenter's daughter returning home with her father after 5 years in a foreign court. Much to her dismay the cats aren't talking to her and even the ghosts are quiet. Fortunately her father is more than a mere carpenter - he once saved the King's life and is known as a Lord Protector. This enables Wynter to find out what's been going on while she's away. Her two chief childhood friends were Razi the King's bastard, and his younger legitimate brother Ali - the formal Heir. It now seems that Ali has been suspected of treason, and fled, or maybe dead nobody is sure. Razi much unwillingly is now the heir - with all the duties and responsibilities thereof.
It's all set in some 1400s Europe, with references to Morocco etc. However given the talking cats and ghosts there seems to be no particular reason for this. The precise country isn't specified. The author claims in an endnote to have researched some of the details so that there is an accurate portrayal of life then. I remain unconvinced.
The characters are good, we get lots of empathy as Razi is torn between the demands of his King and his country, meanwhile Wynter is likewise torn between her friends and her father's ailing health.
It's all obviously set up for the trilogy, but the ending comes fairly well signalled. But a few details do remain unexplained which is annoying. I'm looking forward to seeing what the next installment has to offer.
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nothing is as you'd left it - but well enough executed with a few interesting twists.Wynter Moorehawke is a carpenter's daughter returning home with her father after 5 years in a foreign court. Much to her dismay the cats aren't talking to her and even the ghosts are quiet. Fortunately her father is more than a mere carpenter - he once saved the King's life and is known as a Lord Protector. This enables Wynter to find out what's been going on while she's away. Her two chief childhood friends were Razi the King's bastard, and his younger legitimate brother Ali - the formal Heir. It now seems that Ali has been suspected of treason, and fled, or maybe dead nobody is sure. Razi much unwillingly is now the heir - with all the duties and responsibilities thereof.
It's all set in some 1400s Europe, with references to Morocco etc. However given the talking cats and ghosts there seems to be no particular reason for this. The precise country isn't specified. The author claims in an endnote to have researched some of the details so that there is an accurate portrayal of life then. I remain unconvinced.
The characters are good, we get lots of empathy as Razi is torn between the demands of his King and his country, meanwhile Wynter is likewise torn between her friends and her father's ailing health.
It's all obviously set up for the trilogy, but the ending comes fairly well signalled. But a few details do remain unexplained which is annoying. I'm looking forward to seeing what the next installment has to offer.
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LibraryThing member AdamBourke
The first thing that I'm going to say about "The Poison Throne" is that I'm not entirely sure which genre it's meant to be in. I assumed it was fantasy from the style of the cover. I continued to believe it was fantasy until It had an Italian character. In the interview with the author at the back
Speaking of settings, the book only really has one. The royal palace/keep. Other than a brief period on the road to and from this palace at the beginning and end of the story, all of the action takes place within the grounds of the building. To me, this limited the book somewhat, as the unchanging setting made the book seem slow paced, and not in the traditional fantasy style, which is what I was expecteing. (Although as I said, I found some confusion with the Genre).
The strongest point of the novel is the characterisation of all the major characters. The characters are so well described, the relationships between them are well defined, if not explained initially, and the characteristics are believably realistic. The most moving scene, and the one with the most impact, is the first "departure" scene, where one of the main characters leaves the rest. The emotion in that scene is exquisitely written, and draws emotion from the reader. AUTHOR should be extremely proud of her characters. In some ways they are more realistic than any other characters that I remember reading, as their motives and emotions change and twist from scene to scene, particularly the King's, whilst all the time remaining true to the personality of the character. AUTHOR seems to find a way to let us see all sides of a character.
Except for Wynter and Lorcan, the main character and her father, who are undeniably good, each character has a changing and undefined place on the scale of right and wrong. None of the supporting characters are clearly defined as either, but reside in the grey area between good and evil. This again supports the realism of the novel, and while commendable, leads to confusion as to who the real antagonist is. As it is, I'm not sure.
This lack of antagonist is one of the things that contribute to the poor quality of the books plot. Essentially, the novel chronicles Wynter's time in the palace, where things have changed since she was last there. As the novel takes it's course, we don't find really find out why things have changed, although there are hints, while all the time, the palace is still changing. But there are few action scenes, or major events, and so the overall storyline is slow-paced, and towards the beginning easier to put down than I normally find fantasy books.
Having said that, The book is easy to read, and although it is easy to put down, it is also easy to pick up again. While the plot and pace of this book wasn't brillant, it is the first in The Moorehawke Trilogy, and the evidence suggest to a stronger plot and a faster pace in the next book. Despite the shortcomings of this first one, I look forwards to reading the second book, especially if it is as well written with as strong characterisation.
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of the book it says that it is set in Europe, although in mediaeval times. So I'm going to label it had "Historic Fantasy". It reads like a fantasy, and I believe it is at heart, but there are a few areas that overlap with the real world (The settings, and the christian followors of Jesu Christi).Speaking of settings, the book only really has one. The royal palace/keep. Other than a brief period on the road to and from this palace at the beginning and end of the story, all of the action takes place within the grounds of the building. To me, this limited the book somewhat, as the unchanging setting made the book seem slow paced, and not in the traditional fantasy style, which is what I was expecteing. (Although as I said, I found some confusion with the Genre).
The strongest point of the novel is the characterisation of all the major characters. The characters are so well described, the relationships between them are well defined, if not explained initially, and the characteristics are believably realistic. The most moving scene, and the one with the most impact, is the first "departure" scene, where one of the main characters leaves the rest. The emotion in that scene is exquisitely written, and draws emotion from the reader. AUTHOR should be extremely proud of her characters. In some ways they are more realistic than any other characters that I remember reading, as their motives and emotions change and twist from scene to scene, particularly the King's, whilst all the time remaining true to the personality of the character. AUTHOR seems to find a way to let us see all sides of a character.
Except for Wynter and Lorcan, the main character and her father, who are undeniably good, each character has a changing and undefined place on the scale of right and wrong. None of the supporting characters are clearly defined as either, but reside in the grey area between good and evil. This again supports the realism of the novel, and while commendable, leads to confusion as to who the real antagonist is. As it is, I'm not sure.
This lack of antagonist is one of the things that contribute to the poor quality of the books plot. Essentially, the novel chronicles Wynter's time in the palace, where things have changed since she was last there. As the novel takes it's course, we don't find really find out why things have changed, although there are hints, while all the time, the palace is still changing. But there are few action scenes, or major events, and so the overall storyline is slow-paced, and towards the beginning easier to put down than I normally find fantasy books.
Having said that, The book is easy to read, and although it is easy to put down, it is also easy to pick up again. While the plot and pace of this book wasn't brillant, it is the first in The Moorehawke Trilogy, and the evidence suggest to a stronger plot and a faster pace in the next book. Despite the shortcomings of this first one, I look forwards to reading the second book, especially if it is as well written with as strong characterisation.
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LibraryThing member Queensowntalia
For all that one might call this a mix of high fantasy and historical fantasy, there's relatively little of swordfights and magic in 'The Poison Throne.' Instead, what Kiernan offers us is a moving tale of friendship and friendships betrayed, of childhood friendships lost and found and perhaps lost
Young Wynter and her father Lorcan, an associate of the King, return to court from years in the North, only to find all has changed, and a darkness fallen over the place where Wynter spent many happy years of her childhood. She is happily reunited with the King's bastard son, Razi, her lifelong friend, but soon learns royal Heir Alberon, another childhood friend, is missing, and for mysterious reasons is being shunned by his father. Troubled by the ongoings, and fearful for her father's fragile health, both Wynter and Razi have some serious decisions to make, with many lives on the line – and the country's future in question.
An undercurrent of dark secrets runs through the tome. What's this terrible machine Lorcan makes vague reference to? Where IS Alberon, and what is he up to? What's the King's true agenda? These unanswered questions make for a keen air of suspense elevating the story past being largely political.
I think the tale exceeds when we're shown the interactions between the characters. The obviously close friendship between Razi and his pal Christopher; the scenes where Lorcan and his old friend King Jonathon confront each other, but are obviously still very close; the many instances in which the characters, in a moment of vulnerability, open up to each other. You really get a feel for the characters are people, as friends, as siblings. The story does a great job of highlighting the bonds these individuals share. The only thing I'm uncertain about is where the bulk of the story is taking place. There are references to Europe, and an Italian character, so obviously its quasi-real world, but the "actual" location is unclear (at least to me).
Overall, I found that there is just enough action, paired with the suspense, and just a dash of romance, to make for an easy and addictive read.
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again, of broken promises between powerful lifelong friends.Young Wynter and her father Lorcan, an associate of the King, return to court from years in the North, only to find all has changed, and a darkness fallen over the place where Wynter spent many happy years of her childhood. She is happily reunited with the King's bastard son, Razi, her lifelong friend, but soon learns royal Heir Alberon, another childhood friend, is missing, and for mysterious reasons is being shunned by his father. Troubled by the ongoings, and fearful for her father's fragile health, both Wynter and Razi have some serious decisions to make, with many lives on the line – and the country's future in question.
An undercurrent of dark secrets runs through the tome. What's this terrible machine Lorcan makes vague reference to? Where IS Alberon, and what is he up to? What's the King's true agenda? These unanswered questions make for a keen air of suspense elevating the story past being largely political.
I think the tale exceeds when we're shown the interactions between the characters. The obviously close friendship between Razi and his pal Christopher; the scenes where Lorcan and his old friend King Jonathon confront each other, but are obviously still very close; the many instances in which the characters, in a moment of vulnerability, open up to each other. You really get a feel for the characters are people, as friends, as siblings. The story does a great job of highlighting the bonds these individuals share. The only thing I'm uncertain about is where the bulk of the story is taking place. There are references to Europe, and an Italian character, so obviously its quasi-real world, but the "actual" location is unclear (at least to me).
Overall, I found that there is just enough action, paired with the suspense, and just a dash of romance, to make for an easy and addictive read.
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LibraryThing member alexann
Wynter and her father Lorcan return to their home after several years in the North. They find much is not the same--the king, Lorcan's friend, is now an angry despot, and sorrow and fear hangs over their beloved kingdom. The king's sons, her much-loved childhood friends, are also not happy, and
What a thoroughly satisfying fantasy! Wynter is a strong protagonist, and quite believable. There were actually times when she was very frightened but kept on doing what she had to do. The ending is fine, too. Not an in-your-face-cliffhanger, but we leave her as she is starting a new chapter in her life. All the characters were well-drawn, and their relationships carefully detailed. The plot moved us right along without much time to breathe (this is a good thing!) and of course there was court intrigue, but we didn't get bogged down in it. The politics simply gave credence to the action in the story. And Razi! And Christopher! And the pain of seeing your best friend cast in a role that he hated!
I
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Wynter wants to know what has happened in the intervening five years to cast such a long shadow over the kingdom. What a thoroughly satisfying fantasy! Wynter is a strong protagonist, and quite believable. There were actually times when she was very frightened but kept on doing what she had to do. The ending is fine, too. Not an in-your-face-cliffhanger, but we leave her as she is starting a new chapter in her life. All the characters were well-drawn, and their relationships carefully detailed. The plot moved us right along without much time to breathe (this is a good thing!) and of course there was court intrigue, but we didn't get bogged down in it. The politics simply gave credence to the action in the story. And Razi! And Christopher! And the pain of seeing your best friend cast in a role that he hated!
I
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LibraryThing member sensitivemuse
Wow. Just wow. I was sucked in from the first few chapters. First I loved the setting. It’s an interesting blend of fantasy, some paranormal characteristics, and some “real life” qualities. What I mean by that is you have talking cats, ghosts, yet the setting is set someplace in Europe (not
The book may be slow to some. Yet I was so interested in the political intrigue, that the pace was good for me. You won’t find much action or adventure. Instead, there’s lots of politics and a lot of relationship development and character building. Which is fine for me, it’s certainly a different approach towards fantasy (where you would expect a lot of action and fighting). It was at a perfect pace and I could read this without feeling confused, and I got the characters all straightened out and was able to understand what was happening as there’s several different plots branching out. Considering this if the first book in a trilogy, you won’t get many questions answered. That may be frustrating and it may seem as if you really didn’t get much out of the book at all, however I feel that this book was a good starter for a trilogy. It created your questions, made an interesting world for you to get used to, and gave you a set list of characters so you know who is who without getting confused. Besides, what would be the point of a trilogy if all questions were answered in the first book?
I absolutely loved the characters in this book. I enjoyed Wynter and her relationship with her father , but her friendships with both Razi and Christopher are also interesting and differ from each other. I found no fault with any of them and liked all of the characters. I even liked King Jonathan despite his issues with Alberon and his mistreatment of Razi. They all had their distinct personalities and qualities and were perfectly “fleshed out” so you don’t have any two dimensional, wooden characters. I can’t say I have a favorite as they’re all well done.
Although none of my questions have been answered for this novel (well, the majority of them) I am going to continue reading this trilogy. I absolutely loved this book. This one proved to be one of the best reads I have come across so far for this year. It’s a perfect “first novel in a trilogy” because it establishes everything for the reader so we’re set for the next two books. This book is definitely worth the read.
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really specified). It’s hard to explain, but once you read into the book you get the idea. I thought this was interesting and different. The book may be slow to some. Yet I was so interested in the political intrigue, that the pace was good for me. You won’t find much action or adventure. Instead, there’s lots of politics and a lot of relationship development and character building. Which is fine for me, it’s certainly a different approach towards fantasy (where you would expect a lot of action and fighting). It was at a perfect pace and I could read this without feeling confused, and I got the characters all straightened out and was able to understand what was happening as there’s several different plots branching out. Considering this if the first book in a trilogy, you won’t get many questions answered. That may be frustrating and it may seem as if you really didn’t get much out of the book at all, however I feel that this book was a good starter for a trilogy. It created your questions, made an interesting world for you to get used to, and gave you a set list of characters so you know who is who without getting confused. Besides, what would be the point of a trilogy if all questions were answered in the first book?
I absolutely loved the characters in this book. I enjoyed Wynter and her relationship with her father , but her friendships with both Razi and Christopher are also interesting and differ from each other. I found no fault with any of them and liked all of the characters. I even liked King Jonathan despite his issues with Alberon and his mistreatment of Razi. They all had their distinct personalities and qualities and were perfectly “fleshed out” so you don’t have any two dimensional, wooden characters. I can’t say I have a favorite as they’re all well done.
Although none of my questions have been answered for this novel (well, the majority of them) I am going to continue reading this trilogy. I absolutely loved this book. This one proved to be one of the best reads I have come across so far for this year. It’s a perfect “first novel in a trilogy” because it establishes everything for the reader so we’re set for the next two books. This book is definitely worth the read.
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LibraryThing member kayceel
An exciting story, mildly in the fantasy genre (on account of the ghosts and talking cats), with a strong central female character.
Set in a time that seems most medieval, Wynter is the 15-year-old daughter of a master carpenter, arriving home to their King's stronghold, expecting a warm welcome
This is one of those books that requires extra attention while reading. Wynter grew up with both Alberon and Ravi, and therefore is very comfortable with the intrigue and subtleties required in court life, but Ravi's new friend, Christopher, knows nothing of such intricacies. It's very interesting to discover along with Christopher, the reasons behind certain actions and words. I look forward to the second in this trilogy.
A strong female character in a story rich with royal intrigue and manipulation.
Recommended.
Set in a time that seems most medieval, Wynter is the 15-year-old daughter of a master carpenter, arriving home to their King's stronghold, expecting a warm welcome
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from one of her father's oldest friends, the King himself. INstead, they find the whole keep changed: the ghosts have gone into hiding, the cats have been poisoned, and the King's heir has run away and been declared a traitor. Wynter and her gravely ill father must try and survive the King's wrath - sullen and unpredictable - while helping the King's other son, Ravi, survive his father's demands.This is one of those books that requires extra attention while reading. Wynter grew up with both Alberon and Ravi, and therefore is very comfortable with the intrigue and subtleties required in court life, but Ravi's new friend, Christopher, knows nothing of such intricacies. It's very interesting to discover along with Christopher, the reasons behind certain actions and words. I look forward to the second in this trilogy.
A strong female character in a story rich with royal intrigue and manipulation.
Recommended.
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LibraryThing member angela04
The Poison Throne is a thrilling, deliciously scary and magical hero’s journey filled with quests, ghosts, talking cats, intrigue, misconceptions, and fascinating characters so vivid and so true to life you’ll be mesmerized until the final page and then find yourself clamoring for more. Which
Although classified as young adult fiction, this grown up highly recommends this wonderful novel for supernatural/fantasy/historical/adventure tale loving adults too. :-)
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is a very good thing as this is only book 1 of a trilogy. The lovely relationship between Wynter and her father is beautifully portrayed, and Razi and Christopher are the dashing sorts of handsome, brave young men you *wish* you'd known in your youth. Although classified as young adult fiction, this grown up highly recommends this wonderful novel for supernatural/fantasy/historical/adventure tale loving adults too. :-)
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LibraryThing member LarissaBookGirl
Wynter Moorehawke is a fifteen year old girl. She is a Lady, she is a qualified apprentice in a man's profession and up until five years ago she was the King's Cat Keeper. But for the past five years she and her father have been in exile up North. Now, after so long they have been called home to
Upon returning home Wynter discovers there are many changes in her home kingdom. Small things at first, slightly amiss; like the cats for one thing, and the ghosts for another, as neither seems willing to talk to her as they had before.
Wynter soon realises she has returned to a kingdom in chaos. King Jonathan's once civilised and peaceful kingdom has drastically changed with the reintroduced gibbets and cages, neither seen since the dark days, many years before Wynter was born. King Jonathan also has one son missing, and another unwillingly forced to take his place.
There is the constant threat of danger as sides are taken and the very real risk of imprisonment, torture and death. There are also the whispers of the 'Bloody Machine', but Wynter is at a loss as to what it is, what it has to do with the drastic changes to the kingdom, and what it could possibly have to do with her father.
Wynter finds herself in a precarious situation as she discovers there are those willing to threaten her safety for the submission of power from those she is close to. But there is also the stranger Christopher Garron to worry about. Christopher obviously does not fit in, and despite her friends faith in him, she is not sure he is altogether trustworthy.
Ultimately Wynter has a decision to make, she must chose between her father, her friend and her kingdom. It is a choice that will lead her to deceive those she loves and leave her alone in terrible danger.
There are real moments of tenderness, friendship, intrigue and tension in this story as terrible choices must be made and the consequences lived with. The character are portrayed as vivid, complex and instantly likeable. The story is such that it leaves you desperately wanting more, and hoping it will not be a long wait to discover Wynter's fate in the continuing stories.
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the south. But it is not home as she remembers it.Upon returning home Wynter discovers there are many changes in her home kingdom. Small things at first, slightly amiss; like the cats for one thing, and the ghosts for another, as neither seems willing to talk to her as they had before.
Wynter soon realises she has returned to a kingdom in chaos. King Jonathan's once civilised and peaceful kingdom has drastically changed with the reintroduced gibbets and cages, neither seen since the dark days, many years before Wynter was born. King Jonathan also has one son missing, and another unwillingly forced to take his place.
There is the constant threat of danger as sides are taken and the very real risk of imprisonment, torture and death. There are also the whispers of the 'Bloody Machine', but Wynter is at a loss as to what it is, what it has to do with the drastic changes to the kingdom, and what it could possibly have to do with her father.
Wynter finds herself in a precarious situation as she discovers there are those willing to threaten her safety for the submission of power from those she is close to. But there is also the stranger Christopher Garron to worry about. Christopher obviously does not fit in, and despite her friends faith in him, she is not sure he is altogether trustworthy.
Ultimately Wynter has a decision to make, she must chose between her father, her friend and her kingdom. It is a choice that will lead her to deceive those she loves and leave her alone in terrible danger.
There are real moments of tenderness, friendship, intrigue and tension in this story as terrible choices must be made and the consequences lived with. The character are portrayed as vivid, complex and instantly likeable. The story is such that it leaves you desperately wanting more, and hoping it will not be a long wait to discover Wynter's fate in the continuing stories.
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LibraryThing member KatPruce
When I first started this book, I wasn't sure about it...the reader is thrust right into this fantasy world with little explanation. It felt a bit strange to me to have no introductory world-building to make me more comfortable in this reading space. However, as the story progresses your immersion
Loooove Wynter! Yay for another non-whiny strong female protagonist! Razi and Christopher are wonderful characters as well and I anxiously flipped pages to see how these friends fare. In fact, as soon as I finished the book, I immediately went to the library and picked up the sequel The Crowded Shadows.
If you are a fantasy-lover, enjoy strong characters and like tales of intrigue you'll love this book! Highly recommended.
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begins to feel more complete and before you know it, you are completely engrossed!Loooove Wynter! Yay for another non-whiny strong female protagonist! Razi and Christopher are wonderful characters as well and I anxiously flipped pages to see how these friends fare. In fact, as soon as I finished the book, I immediately went to the library and picked up the sequel The Crowded Shadows.
If you are a fantasy-lover, enjoy strong characters and like tales of intrigue you'll love this book! Highly recommended.
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LibraryThing member TerryWeyna
The Poison Throne is the engaging first book in The Moorehawke Trilogy, which was first published in Ireland in 2008. It seems to be directed toward a young adult audience; but aside from the fact that the heroine is 15 years old, there is little to distinguish it from an adult fantasy. In fact,
The author has stated that the book is set in the mid-1400’s or so, though it involves a Europe that never existed, one in which there was never a Moorish invasion or any crusades. Europe is much more fragmented than it was in our world, with many small powers that are always shadowed by aggressive larger ones. Kiernan is careful to keep many of the details of her book within the realm of a parallel reality, so that her heroine’s status as an apprentice carpenter, for instance, is support by guild records showing a few women having attained journeyman status in the trades in those times in our world. The world-building here is quite nicely done, not intruding overly into the plot, but so fully realized that there are no discordant notes that might throw a reader out of the story.
Wynter and her father, Lorcan, have returned to the capital of Jonathon’s kingdom after five years of exile in the north, apparently to help quell a rebellion (though this is never explained to my satisfaction). They find that much has changed in the ensuing years. Jonathan has become a violent despot so afraid of threats against his throne that he has actually succeeded in creating threats. Not least among them is his son, Alberon, whom he has disowned. Jonathon seeks to elevate his illegitimate son, Razi, to the position of heir to the throne, a position that Razi neither seeks nor wants. Jonathon’s actions put Razi in danger, as those loyal to Alberon believe Razi has somehow bewitched his father – a conclusion that they feel is explained by the fact that Razi is a Musulman (or Muslim, as we would say). Jonathon has also forbidden anyone to speak with cats (who are as arrogant, haughty and dismissive of humans as they are in our own world, but who here can say the things we always imagine our own cats are thinking) or to acknowledge the presence of ghosts, even as they gobble trays of tarts before his subjects’ very eyes.
Wynter is quickly ensnared in the political strife rending the kingdom, in large part because her father’s health is swiftly declining. She was close to Razi when they were children, and is close to his heart again upon their return; they are as brother and sister. Razi’s constant companion, Christopher, becomes close to her in a different way, as she feels herself falling in love with him, despite his tomcatting ways. But Razi must distance himself from Wynter, and finds he must also send Christopher away when his friendship with the man leads to rumors of a sexual relationship, a type of relationship not merely frowned on but punishable by death in this culture and period.
I found this book interesting primarily because shows an epic fantasy from the other side, as it were: a young woman and her father seem to be firmly supportive of a king who is just barely short of a tyrant. Why they stand by him is not yet clear, but there are bits and pieces of the plot that indicate Jonathon and Lorcan share a military past that put Jonathon on the throne – though that is somewhat confusing, as it seems that Jonathon’s father was also king. And Razi, too, seems to be a less than ideal leader. Perhaps he is merely a character in his time, but the scenes in which Razi is inflicting torture on a would-be assassin are unusual; most heroes of fantasy novels reject such conduct outright, regardless of how out-of-place such a rejection would be in the real world.
I hope the politics become a bit clearer as the series progresses, because they are central to these novels. In fact, little happens after about the midpoint of the book except political maneuvering. For me, this makes the book more interesting than would an action or adventure focus. I’d rather read about relationships than wars. But as the book ends, it seems war is exactly where things are headed.
Wynter is the type of strong female character I love to find in a novel, and especially in a young adult novel. Her work is unusual for a girl, and she is very good at it; she has even learned well how to handle men who think she shouldn’t be allowed to do what she does. She can handle herself politically in difficult situations, but is also vulnerable and confused when she does not understand what is going on. I admired her bravery as much as I sympathized with her confusion and fear.
I’ve already begun reading The Crowded Shadows, the next in this series, and hope I find it as good a read as The Poison Throne. I can’t say I find these novels the equal of the best young adult fantasy and science fiction – not as new and exciting as, say, The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness (reviewed here) or Skin Hunger by Kathleen Duey (reviewed here), they are fun to read and especially thought-provoking for the young adult who is starting to follow politics.
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the ethical and moral dilemmas posed in the book make it quite adult, even if there are ghosts and talking cats inhabiting its pages.The author has stated that the book is set in the mid-1400’s or so, though it involves a Europe that never existed, one in which there was never a Moorish invasion or any crusades. Europe is much more fragmented than it was in our world, with many small powers that are always shadowed by aggressive larger ones. Kiernan is careful to keep many of the details of her book within the realm of a parallel reality, so that her heroine’s status as an apprentice carpenter, for instance, is support by guild records showing a few women having attained journeyman status in the trades in those times in our world. The world-building here is quite nicely done, not intruding overly into the plot, but so fully realized that there are no discordant notes that might throw a reader out of the story.
Wynter and her father, Lorcan, have returned to the capital of Jonathon’s kingdom after five years of exile in the north, apparently to help quell a rebellion (though this is never explained to my satisfaction). They find that much has changed in the ensuing years. Jonathan has become a violent despot so afraid of threats against his throne that he has actually succeeded in creating threats. Not least among them is his son, Alberon, whom he has disowned. Jonathon seeks to elevate his illegitimate son, Razi, to the position of heir to the throne, a position that Razi neither seeks nor wants. Jonathon’s actions put Razi in danger, as those loyal to Alberon believe Razi has somehow bewitched his father – a conclusion that they feel is explained by the fact that Razi is a Musulman (or Muslim, as we would say). Jonathon has also forbidden anyone to speak with cats (who are as arrogant, haughty and dismissive of humans as they are in our own world, but who here can say the things we always imagine our own cats are thinking) or to acknowledge the presence of ghosts, even as they gobble trays of tarts before his subjects’ very eyes.
Wynter is quickly ensnared in the political strife rending the kingdom, in large part because her father’s health is swiftly declining. She was close to Razi when they were children, and is close to his heart again upon their return; they are as brother and sister. Razi’s constant companion, Christopher, becomes close to her in a different way, as she feels herself falling in love with him, despite his tomcatting ways. But Razi must distance himself from Wynter, and finds he must also send Christopher away when his friendship with the man leads to rumors of a sexual relationship, a type of relationship not merely frowned on but punishable by death in this culture and period.
I found this book interesting primarily because shows an epic fantasy from the other side, as it were: a young woman and her father seem to be firmly supportive of a king who is just barely short of a tyrant. Why they stand by him is not yet clear, but there are bits and pieces of the plot that indicate Jonathon and Lorcan share a military past that put Jonathon on the throne – though that is somewhat confusing, as it seems that Jonathon’s father was also king. And Razi, too, seems to be a less than ideal leader. Perhaps he is merely a character in his time, but the scenes in which Razi is inflicting torture on a would-be assassin are unusual; most heroes of fantasy novels reject such conduct outright, regardless of how out-of-place such a rejection would be in the real world.
I hope the politics become a bit clearer as the series progresses, because they are central to these novels. In fact, little happens after about the midpoint of the book except political maneuvering. For me, this makes the book more interesting than would an action or adventure focus. I’d rather read about relationships than wars. But as the book ends, it seems war is exactly where things are headed.
Wynter is the type of strong female character I love to find in a novel, and especially in a young adult novel. Her work is unusual for a girl, and she is very good at it; she has even learned well how to handle men who think she shouldn’t be allowed to do what she does. She can handle herself politically in difficult situations, but is also vulnerable and confused when she does not understand what is going on. I admired her bravery as much as I sympathized with her confusion and fear.
I’ve already begun reading The Crowded Shadows, the next in this series, and hope I find it as good a read as The Poison Throne. I can’t say I find these novels the equal of the best young adult fantasy and science fiction – not as new and exciting as, say, The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness (reviewed here) or Skin Hunger by Kathleen Duey (reviewed here), they are fun to read and especially thought-provoking for the young adult who is starting to follow politics.
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LibraryThing member Capnrandm
It's been so long since I read a pure fantasy book, the experience of reading THE POISON THRONE was all the more enthralling. I found myself riveted by the love and pain in this book, and read this book over the course of a day. Celine Kiernan does a good job of building her story while also
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picking natural break points between volumes, I highly recommmend this series. Show Less
LibraryThing member devilish2
Hmmm. Ambivalent about this one. Torture is central to the story. Not entirely sure about this. It's pretty graphically described. I don't think the book is groundbreaking. But there are some good characters and nice touches (ghosts, talking cats). I'd go about 3.5 stars, but maybe less for younger
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readers due to the content. I don't need to race out and find the next book in the trilogy. Show Less
LibraryThing member Cynical_Ames
Wynter comes home with her ill father after five years away to find the kingdom oppressed by their once benevolent king. What is going on? Why has he changed? And where is his son and heir and Wynter's childhood playmate, Alberon? That's the main focus of this book.
The distressing situation in
His overall behaviour is odd. He does the most cruel and violent things and yet manages to display anguish and regret at what he's done as well as tenderness and perhaps even love for his old friend Lorcan, Wynter's father.
The King's calculated manipulations never included Wynter except to occasionally demand she stand in for her father. I fully expected the King to pay more attention to her especially since she got away with being rude as well as defying him and considering the rumours about his son Razi as well as the threats to his life I assumed the King would force him to marry Wynter despite their brother-sister friendship.
I would've much preferred this to the strange growing feelings between Wynter and Christopher. Their changing relationship was unnatural. I understood Christopher's attraction to Wynter with his promiscuous nature and his sudden need to protect her after his torture but Wynter never thought of him in a romantic sense, even if her father assumed she did. She reacted to him, a major ally to both herself and Razi, being ripped away, forced to leave to stop him from being used against them.
Wynter's decision to abandon her father's plan and seek Alberon, although brave, seemed incredibly stupid. She doesn't have all of the facts. She hasn't seen him in years. He could try to kill her or use her to kill Razi as he's been trying to do. Which doesn't make sense, why not kill the king? The people will never accept Razi as king and he doesn't want the job so why try to kill him?
I love the cover, the font used and I felt sympathy for Wynter, her dying father, Razi and Christopher. This was very readable, my curiosity implored me to keep turning those pages hoping more would be revealed or some relief given to the characters. I've pre-ordered the next book, I just hope that more is revealed within it's pages.
The distressing situation in
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which the King finds himself harming his children and his kingdom in order to save it is alluded to but not revealed which left me generally feeling frustrated and confused.His overall behaviour is odd. He does the most cruel and violent things and yet manages to display anguish and regret at what he's done as well as tenderness and perhaps even love for his old friend Lorcan, Wynter's father.
The King's calculated manipulations never included Wynter except to occasionally demand she stand in for her father. I fully expected the King to pay more attention to her especially since she got away with being rude as well as defying him and considering the rumours about his son Razi as well as the threats to his life I assumed the King would force him to marry Wynter despite their brother-sister friendship.
I would've much preferred this to the strange growing feelings between Wynter and Christopher. Their changing relationship was unnatural. I understood Christopher's attraction to Wynter with his promiscuous nature and his sudden need to protect her after his torture but Wynter never thought of him in a romantic sense, even if her father assumed she did. She reacted to him, a major ally to both herself and Razi, being ripped away, forced to leave to stop him from being used against them.
Wynter's decision to abandon her father's plan and seek Alberon, although brave, seemed incredibly stupid. She doesn't have all of the facts. She hasn't seen him in years. He could try to kill her or use her to kill Razi as he's been trying to do. Which doesn't make sense, why not kill the king? The people will never accept Razi as king and he doesn't want the job so why try to kill him?
I love the cover, the font used and I felt sympathy for Wynter, her dying father, Razi and Christopher. This was very readable, my curiosity implored me to keep turning those pages hoping more would be revealed or some relief given to the characters. I've pre-ordered the next book, I just hope that more is revealed within it's pages.
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LibraryThing member alcarinqa
It’s the characters and their relationships that really make this book. Wynter’s relationship with Prince Razi, whom she calls ‘brother’, was especially sweet. I think they behaved very much like siblings. Her sudden and irrational jealousy of Christopher, Razi’s best friend, irritated me
The action unfolds slowly throughout the book - a large portion of it is dedicated to setting up the characters and world. The world-building is superb - Celine Kiernan describes everything so well it was vivid in my mind. The writing in throughout the book is phenomenal, I found it very hard to put the book down. The story was paced well and flowed very well, and when it finished I was really surprised because I was having so much fun. However, I have to point out that the violence, when it does occur, is graphic, but I think it is in keeping with the tone of the whole world.
If you haven’t already, I recommend you pick this series up. It’s a book that might get overlooked with all the other fantasy available out there, but it’s a diamond in the rough. You do want to go straight from this book to the sequel, The Crowded Shadows, however, so I highly recommend you have it available when you read The Poison Throne.
Read more of my reviews here.
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until I realised acts just like a sister would. Wynter also has a wonderful relationship with her father, and she takes care of him lovingly during his illness. I think the story of The Poison Throne is so powerful because of the relationships the characters have with one another. The action unfolds slowly throughout the book - a large portion of it is dedicated to setting up the characters and world. The world-building is superb - Celine Kiernan describes everything so well it was vivid in my mind. The writing in throughout the book is phenomenal, I found it very hard to put the book down. The story was paced well and flowed very well, and when it finished I was really surprised because I was having so much fun. However, I have to point out that the violence, when it does occur, is graphic, but I think it is in keeping with the tone of the whole world.
If you haven’t already, I recommend you pick this series up. It’s a book that might get overlooked with all the other fantasy available out there, but it’s a diamond in the rough. You do want to go straight from this book to the sequel, The Crowded Shadows, however, so I highly recommend you have it available when you read The Poison Throne.
Read more of my reviews here.
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LibraryThing member rosienotrose
Brilliant read and not what I expected. The main character Wynter is dynamic, engaging and caring. The secondary characters are all intriguing and well described, their stories unfolding well as you get through the chapters. I look forward to the next book and the continuing adventures.
LibraryThing member lexilewords
More appropriately this could be considered historical fiction with fantasy overtones I suppose, but talking cats, infuriated ghosts and magic tends to make think 'fantasy' so fantasy it shalt be called. Also this is considered Young Adult by the author and most places I looked it up, I suppose
Onto the book itself! There is a lot to recommend this novel for fantasy fans; its a medieval setting, royalty is the main seat of power, court intrigue and political machinations saturate this novel as well. We start out with Wynter Moorehawke and her father Lorcan Moorehawke returning home from 5 years in the North (keeping the peace for King Jonothan). But things aren't working out how Wynter, or Lorcan I imagine, thought they would. From the odd reception at the front gate, to the fact that the court seems suspended with a level of tenseness neither remembers, events begin adding up to a to create an upsetting picture.
As I said Wynter is 15 years old, but circumstances and life make her seem much older. She has to bear up under some stressful situations. Her father's rapidly deteriorating health, her one friend banished and the other keeping secrets, the knowledge that her beloved cats were all killed, and turbulent feelings over Razi's new friend Chris. She had uncertainties, fears and doubts that plagued her and made her act out in impulse instead of reason. But beneath it all there was a core of steel built not only from her own willpower and determination, but also from years in court life.
The 'action' of the novel comes in segments with long interludes of conspiracy and maneuvering as players began their gambits. Kiernan doesn't let any of her characters fall into one category; King Jonothan (the 'bad guy' of the book, for various reasons) is shown to be cruel and merciless at times, but with Lorcan (an old friend and the Lord Protector) he is all doubts and pleas to understand. Razi, a Doctor and the second in line to the throne (he is the bastard son of Jonothan and an Arabian mistress) is fiercely loyal to his friends and to his brother (the rightful, but banished heir Alberon) but his loyalty is at a cost as he slips further away in his efforts to keep them safe.
The truth of what is going on is murky and changes depending on who you ask. Jonothan is certain his rightful heir Alberon is plotting a coup with a machine Jonothan swore would never see the light of day again. Razi thinks Jonothan is off his rocker and making a huge mistake. Wynter can't believe that her childhood friend Albi, who idolized Razi so much throughout their childhood, could be such a vicious fellow now. The court is certain that Razi is the bad guy, that Jonothan is bewitched and Razi is trying to usurp Alberon's place. What I found fascinating is how quickly a mass of people, who have known Razi all their lives, are willing to turn on him when their expectations are tested.
This book ends in heart-breaking decisions. Decisions that were as hard to read about as they were for the characters to live. I don't know if I could have been strong enough to do what Wynter does. Or to live with myself if I could.
Book 2: The Crowded Shadows is available now (review coming soon) and the third and final book, The Rebel Prince, is due out in October. It can't come quickly enough!
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since Wynter is 15 years old, Chris is 18 (I think) and Razi is 19 that makes sense, but I'll warn you for content regardless since it feels like there is more of the following than I normally read in YA. There is violence, torture and no small amount of sexual innuendo happening.Onto the book itself! There is a lot to recommend this novel for fantasy fans; its a medieval setting, royalty is the main seat of power, court intrigue and political machinations saturate this novel as well. We start out with Wynter Moorehawke and her father Lorcan Moorehawke returning home from 5 years in the North (keeping the peace for King Jonothan). But things aren't working out how Wynter, or Lorcan I imagine, thought they would. From the odd reception at the front gate, to the fact that the court seems suspended with a level of tenseness neither remembers, events begin adding up to a to create an upsetting picture.
As I said Wynter is 15 years old, but circumstances and life make her seem much older. She has to bear up under some stressful situations. Her father's rapidly deteriorating health, her one friend banished and the other keeping secrets, the knowledge that her beloved cats were all killed, and turbulent feelings over Razi's new friend Chris. She had uncertainties, fears and doubts that plagued her and made her act out in impulse instead of reason. But beneath it all there was a core of steel built not only from her own willpower and determination, but also from years in court life.
The 'action' of the novel comes in segments with long interludes of conspiracy and maneuvering as players began their gambits. Kiernan doesn't let any of her characters fall into one category; King Jonothan (the 'bad guy' of the book, for various reasons) is shown to be cruel and merciless at times, but with Lorcan (an old friend and the Lord Protector) he is all doubts and pleas to understand. Razi, a Doctor and the second in line to the throne (he is the bastard son of Jonothan and an Arabian mistress) is fiercely loyal to his friends and to his brother (the rightful, but banished heir Alberon) but his loyalty is at a cost as he slips further away in his efforts to keep them safe.
The truth of what is going on is murky and changes depending on who you ask. Jonothan is certain his rightful heir Alberon is plotting a coup with a machine Jonothan swore would never see the light of day again. Razi thinks Jonothan is off his rocker and making a huge mistake. Wynter can't believe that her childhood friend Albi, who idolized Razi so much throughout their childhood, could be such a vicious fellow now. The court is certain that Razi is the bad guy, that Jonothan is bewitched and Razi is trying to usurp Alberon's place. What I found fascinating is how quickly a mass of people, who have known Razi all their lives, are willing to turn on him when their expectations are tested.
This book ends in heart-breaking decisions. Decisions that were as hard to read about as they were for the characters to live. I don't know if I could have been strong enough to do what Wynter does. Or to live with myself if I could.
Book 2: The Crowded Shadows is available now (review coming soon) and the third and final book, The Rebel Prince, is due out in October. It can't come quickly enough!
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LibraryThing member allureofbooks
The three books of the series are The Poison Throne, The Crowded Shadows and The Rebel Prince. I'm reviewing them together partly because it would be hard to write individual reviews without a ton of spoilers...but also because I was insanely addicted to the series and read all three books in a
Here, friends. Here is a series to get lost in. This world, these people...they don't let you keep them on the pages of the book for long. I got so completely caught up in the adventures of Wynter, Razi and Christopher; when I would set the books down for something it would take me a disorienting moment to remember that I wasn't actually with them and part of the story. That, my friends, is the biggest gift a book can give you.
The politics, characters and different tribes and nations of people are all so layered and complex. I'm already looking forward to rereading the series sometime in the future because I know there is enough to the story that I will be picking up all kinds of things that I missed the first time.
I could never critique these books by saying "I didn't like what this character did in this situation" or "I wish she had written this part different" because...of course there are things I wish the characters hadn't done, or things that I wish had happened differently. Reading these books means watching a world unfold. (I did warn you there'd be gushing.) But, fair warning, there is a lot of intensity, and a lot of things that are hard to read (like human sacrifice).
In a lot of ways, reading is a never-ending search for books like these...the ones that give you a complete escape. If you like that feeling (and you know the one I'm talking about), then this really is a trilogy you shouldn't miss.
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row, and in a ridiculously short amount of time. Oh - and fair warning - there will be gushing to follow. Here, friends. Here is a series to get lost in. This world, these people...they don't let you keep them on the pages of the book for long. I got so completely caught up in the adventures of Wynter, Razi and Christopher; when I would set the books down for something it would take me a disorienting moment to remember that I wasn't actually with them and part of the story. That, my friends, is the biggest gift a book can give you.
The politics, characters and different tribes and nations of people are all so layered and complex. I'm already looking forward to rereading the series sometime in the future because I know there is enough to the story that I will be picking up all kinds of things that I missed the first time.
I could never critique these books by saying "I didn't like what this character did in this situation" or "I wish she had written this part different" because...of course there are things I wish the characters hadn't done, or things that I wish had happened differently. Reading these books means watching a world unfold. (I did warn you there'd be gushing.) But, fair warning, there is a lot of intensity, and a lot of things that are hard to read (like human sacrifice).
In a lot of ways, reading is a never-ending search for books like these...the ones that give you a complete escape. If you like that feeling (and you know the one I'm talking about), then this really is a trilogy you shouldn't miss.
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LibraryThing member jazzbird61
Lovely book. It was so good that I wish I'd waited for the second one to come out before starting. My only and complaint--which seems to be a new trend--is that it seems like none of the new series books coming out can stand alone.
Awards
Irish Book Award (Nominee — Newcomer — 2009)
The White Ravens (2009)
Literary Association of Ireland Children's Book Award (Winner — 2009)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2008-10-08 (Ireland)
Physical description
480 p.; 5.31 inches
ISBN
1847171109 / 9781847171108