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S.M. Boyce is a very talented author I had the privilege of meeting at UtopYA2014 this year. Lichgates is the first in her Grimoire Saga series. I purchased a copy (well two, because I read my eBook version while I keep my signed paperback nice and neat!) and fell in love with this book within the first chapter.
Overview
When Kara Magari uncovers a secret door in the middle of the forest, she discovers (and trips through) a portal to a hidden world full of terrifying things: Ourea. She just wants to go home, but the natives have other plans for her. She clashes with immortal shapeshifters, is carried off by a dragon, nearly dies on several occasions, and somehow becomes the master of an ancient book of magic called the Grimoire. Every time she thinks she's safe, her new "friends" show their true colors.
Kara needs an ally, or she might not survive Ourea's monsters. She drops her guard when Braeden, a native soldier with a dark secret, vows to keep her safe. And though she doesn't know it, her growing attraction to him may just be her undoing.
For twelve years, Braeden Drakonin has lived a lie. The Grimoire is his one chance at redemption, and it lands in his lap when Kara Magari comes into his life. Though he begins to care for this stranded girl, there's something he wants more. He wants the Grimoire.
Welcome to Ourea, where only the cunning survive.
About the Author
When S. M. Boyce graduated with a degree in creative writing, she realized that made her well-qualified for serving French fries. It would take years of writing hundreds of thousands of words of all kinds before she became the bestselling action and adventure author she is today.
Boyce specializes in action-packed stories that weave in fantasy, mystery, and heroines with an knack for mischief. All romantic leads are based loosely on her husband, who proves that soulmates are real. She has a deep love for ghosts, magic, and spooky things. If you’ve already finished her books, check out her blog or twitter feed for a dash of adventure.
My Take
I can't tell you how great this book is, but I'll try!
S.M. Boyce has created such a detailed world that once you step into this epic fantasy, you can feel the sun on your face and wind blowing through your hair. The level of creativity and imagery placed into this work is some of the best I have ever read. The plot takes you on a great adventure than spans the height of mountains and depths of the sea.
The first chapter sucks you in as we meet Kara while on a routine run; however, before we know it, Kara's life is turned upside down as she uncovers the Grimoire and is chosen to be the new Vagabond in the world of Ourea. Now everyone within this new world seems to have a smile on their face to greet her while holding a knife behind their back ready to take advantage of the new Vagabond. Kara has to learn to survive in this new world and learn who she can trust. This is part of the appeal of this book, because as the reader, we are in Kara's shoes and can never quite tell who we can trust and who may be a villain in disguise.
Enter Braeden, Kara's new "seems-to-be" protector. While Kara feels she can trust Braeden, we know something is causing him to keep his distance from her. Could his secrets keep them apart? As the reader, I kept hope that Kara would discover what her new role is in this world before it was too late! Wonder if she does? You'll just have to see for yourself!!
Following Kara, as the Vagabond, and exploring this new world as she uncovers her new life in this strange, unfamiliar land was a lot of fun! S.M. Boyce introduces us to so many new lands, characters, and magic that is easy to follow because of the intricate detail she puts into her story.
If you're a fan of epic-fantasy and romance, I highly recommend this book.
Overall, I give this book 5 STARS.
The plot, story-line, characters, and writing were all enjoyable for me and I can see why the author has had such great success with this series!
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