I am a fantasy book lover. When I got this book I read it almost cover to cover - I couldn't put it down (had to sleep though - ha ha). The book is a world all its own. It's better than Harry Potter because it's for adults. It also reminds me of Lord of the Rings.I love the protagonist Vivenne. She really drives the story forward. Her soulmate Laloiken is enthralling. Everything that Vivienne has to do to save the world, fight the monsters -- all with the help of Lailoken. Very romantic and a super adventure. Highly recommend to not only read but to give as gifts to other fantasy lovers. Can't wait for the next in the triology...Book II.
This book is FANTASTIC! I couldn't put it down!! I love the myths and legends around the Cup of the Holy Grail, and this story is so fresh, I am soo excited about it!! I love the characters, the settings are really well described and beautiful. It moves fast and the plot takes you from the present to the past to another dimension, and they are all happening at the same time! It is fun to follow and there are lots of unexpected twists and turns. My only problem is I don't want to finish it!! But it's just the first one, I HIGHLY recommend this book! And I'm telling everybody!!
-- Therese M.
I do not usually read fantasy but was drawn to the title and premise of this novel. I am so happy I gave it a chance. It is a brilliant read. D.R Whitney describes the end of an ancient world where women ruled with compassion and peace and a fantasy world built wholly from this writer's wonderful imagination. The novel throws us into the struggle between these disappearing worlds and the male dominated world that comes with the advent of the church. The personal struggle of Vivienne, the very real, modern day and relatable heroine is woven into this epic struggle. I think readers of all genres will appreciate the wisdom, imagination, romance, excitement and, of course, fantasy that flows through these pages.
-- Christine, Los Osos, CA
Can't praise D.R. Whitney enough. This author knows how to create suspense, mystery, adventure. A book should be a good time and this one certainly was. The characters, the plot, and the creatively imagined lands stay with you. I never knew how thrilling it could be to travel through an epic adventure of this calibre. A very exciting ride and read.
-- Terry J., Los Angeles, CA
Ever since Terry Brooks I've been looking for a new fantasy author to capture my imagination. D.R. Whitney has done it. Whitney knows how to create memorable and empathetic characters as well as villains you love to hate. My favorite villain is Bishop Dubricious, Master of the Souls, a thoroughly despicable creature yet fascinating too. He is a worthy opponent for protagonist Vivienne and her soul mate Laloiken. I think Whitney will be the next great fantasy genre novelist!
-- Wally Gimbel
If you are a fantasy lover, you'll love reading about this heroic female. Vivienne is a special woman and she evolves into a Super Hero. At the book's beginning, she is uncertain but everything she goes through - the battles, the betrayals, the psychological stress - makes her into the strong, capable, powerful woman she becomes at the book's end. The other characters will draw you in as well as the lands, the plot and the many layers. If you like a strong female character, if you like good adventure and romance, if you like super heroes, you'll love this book.
-- Susan Vortex
