Fantasy at it's best!
934135
I'm sure you've seen this series up on my blog quite a few times lately and I am so glad I finally get a chance to read it because it really has intrigued me from all the posts about it. This is a High Fantasy piece at heart and as such the story to be told here is rather large. You have Royals and social structure to magic and other skills that really draw you into this fantastical world. Ciardis is a 17 year-old girl who has done nothing but launder her entire life. She is an orphan and from a very early age learned to take care of herself by working hard and long hours. However, that all changes when she meets Serena, a women of status known as a companion, and she takes Ciardis under her wing to become a companion herself. Sworn to Raise takes you on a poor orphan's journey through the court life of tricks and deception on her way to finding out more about herself than she thought possible.

Ciardis is a great female lead in my eyes. She comes from literally nothing, no family or stature and has made a living for herself no matter how meager, through hard work. You have to love a character that knows that a little elbow grease is required in life and she flourishes into a real woman by the end of the book. Her growth is visible and not all of it is because she is suddenly in the middle of the highest class of people, but of her own qualities that get to shine because of the opportunity present to her. Plus, between her own accomplishments and problems cleverly solved , such as her reading problem, this story balances overcoming odds with getting some much needed help along the way. Pair her with the cast of characters around her in Sworn to Raise and they really lead you on this great journey around a fantasy kingdom with a lot of drama going down!

That world is what my favorite part of the story comes from. Fantasy is a tough genre to write, I've said this before, simply because of all the world building that has to be done in order for a story to work. You can't be too vague because the reader can't understand what the environment that these characters are in is suppose to look like and if you just ramble on and on about scenery and other things around said characters, people find it boring. Sworn to Raise does this perfectly. I have to give the author huge props for showing me what this world looks like versus telling me. Little things like letting me know the carriages that Serena and Ciardis are traveling in away from her home are actually sleds let me know she comes from a where it is wintery or when they arrive at the Companions Guild, the fact that she mistakes it for the Imperial Castle makes you understand how high these woman are regarded. Subtle hints in a fantasy world without losing the enormity of it are what takes this story from being really good to great. These women are not to be trifled with and reminded me so much of the similar named companions of Sci-Fi fixtures like Dr. Who that I had a hard time finding this book anything but enjoyable to read! Sworn to raise will take you on a unique journey of a strong female character and show you a world you have never seen before.
4424628
If you love reading fantasy, please check out this book. Interesting characters that draw you in and stories that intertwine so excitingly - this book has the best of what makes fantasy great. I genuinely had a hard time putting it down. Enjoy!
3063043
When I first read Auralia's Colors I was blown away by the magic of Jeffrey Overstreet. The experience has been no different for Cyndere's Midnight and now Raven's Ladder. This series is by far one of the best in Fantasy that I've read in many years. Overstreet's writing is magical. His words breathe life into a world that cannot be duplicated. It's a poetry that tickles the senses and feeds the soul. I often found my self re-reading certain paragraphs just to experience the magic all over again.

If you are bored of other Fantasy series' like the Wheel of Time, you need to read this! Raven's Ladder not only captures the imagination, but also takes hold of the heart. I can't wait to read the last in The Auralia Thread Series!
4755518
From the first page, I was hooked. This book was a fantastic medieval fantasy. I loved how much action was in it.  Liam faces many challenges, and my heart was pounding at each one, hoping he would make it! Marissa Ames created a story that was easy to visualize and nearly impossible to put down. I can't wait for the next book!
3834840
A great story with a wonderful and different take on magic! I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy stories! A very complex and thrilling book series!
1058158
I sure do love a good fantasy!  I was worried that the first book might just have been a fluke, but I just galloped through book #2 and they are both fine examples of the genre.

I am an ancient old coot (65), and it is increasingly rare to find well thought-out yummy fantasy that isn't a formulaic re-write of all the other fantasies I read when I was 12.  And yes, there are more to come!  Be still (ish) my heart!

Read, enjoy, and repeat!
3180334
Well written fantasy, it may keep you up at night cause you can't put it down!  I hope a 5th book is in the works!
4244810
What an amazing world Mr. Dreece has created! I thoroughly enjoyed everything about this story; the writing is stellar, the plot is exciting, and the adventure is everywhere. As soon as I started this book, I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend it for lovers of fantasy everywhere, regardless of age. There is something in it for everyone! Hats off to the author! I will be reading every single book in this series!
201192
I appreciate the touch of fantasy brought to this captivating story written through a mans perspective.  I have been delighted by the authors books bringing strong, powerful, talented women characters to life!
1804736
FABULOUS!  This is a story that grabs your imagination and leaves you with pure enjoyment as you enter the world of Arlon and the life of the Dunamai.  Imagine, if you will, being born for only one intense purpose that leaves you protected as a realm's greatest treasure to the point you know little of "real" life.  Then allow yourself to wonder what void your life will be after your purpose has been served.  Will you feel relief or disappointment?  But first you must face the dragon...

Mr. McWilson weaves a tale set in a world of pure fantasy with characters, settings, and surprises that will leave you wanting more and more of this extraordinarily imaginative story.  This is a great read for adults and kids alike who either already love fantasy or who are looking for an introduction to the genre.  Highly recommended!
1509410
This story was fantastic from beginning to end. It is a fun fantasy many women will enjoy! I'll definitely check out this author's next book.
3997662
This is one of the best fantasy books I've ever read.  The narrative is fast paced and the foreshadowing wasn't clumsy or hackneyed!
4318591
Fireblood is a great fantasy! Lots of fun to read and very absorbing. This writer is definitely up and coming. I was so happy when the sequel came out and I could read more. ( the sequel, "Dryad Born", is even better) Both have cliffhanger endings and will leave you wanting more. I especially like that there is nothing inappropriate and so parents can happily share these books with their teenagers!
1896643
This book is fantastic! I'm an adult, but do enjoy some young adult titles such as the Fablehaven series and Harry Potter. I received a copy of this book yesterday, and ended up staying up late to finish it because I was so involved in what happened next! The characters are well developed, and the twists in the plot keep the reader on their toes. One of my favorite characters isn't even one of the humans! (No spoilers from me!)

Anyone who enjoys fantasy, from young teen on up to adults should give this book a try.
608236
A wonderful fantasy/romance novel that you won't be able to put down!  The story is rich and detailed, constantly inviting the reader to become lost in the world of Tellanmere and the lives of the characters.  Not only is this a wonderful love story, but also a captivating adventure, pulling the reader through the lives of rangers, pirates, and royal spies.  A definite read for any lover of fantasy!
2685634
The Accidental Apprentice is a fantastic fantasy novel, filled with  a fractured kingdom, political intrigue, action, and a distinct magikal style all it's own. The characters are rich and memorable, with many laugh out loud moments. The book is written from the viewpoint of several characters, one of which is the antagonist. It's fun to see inside the head and understand the twisted machinations and rationalizations of a villain. I really enjoyed diving into the world of Havensgate. It was a non-stop read for me, I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to see where this story goes next when I read the (hinted at on her author's Facebook page) sequel!! There's so much left in store for our favorite magicians and of course their countrymen! PS I'm so Team Crispin!!
1466324
A wonderful, swashbuckling fantasy adventure, full of intrigue and action. If you like colorful, all-ages sword and sorcery, then you are in for a treat!