Singing

Another end of the series depression sets in...

The Singing was all I thought it would be.  A truly lyrical novel.  This one is scary, but not as dark as the last one.  Alison Croggon is an amazing author.  These novels have the taste of the Lord of the Rings series, but in an easier to read flavor.  The characters are rich and developed.  My only problem with this last book was the relationship between Cadvan and Maerad.  I don't know why I didn't want them romantically linked.  I think it was because I saw Cadvan in my mind as Maerad's father figure.  She was 15 or so when he found her and began to teach her.  He was like what like 30?  I know, in these books bards live extra long lives, but she was a bard too.  I just didn't see that connection between them.  But, you know everyone loves a happy ending, and this definitely was that!  I can't wait to see what else Croggon comes up with.  I love an author with a good imagination! 

Riddles

I was sick this weekend with strep throat (yuck) and finished two and a half books I think.
The first was the second in the Pellinor series The Riddle. 

The Riddle is a deeper, darker story from the first novel.  It delves into Maerad's feelings about being a bard, her quest for her true identity, and more (that I don't want to spoil for you.)  Her character really develops in this novel.  I do say I really love Alison Croggon's characters and stories.  I can't wait to go to the library tomorrow to get the third in the series!  

Into Edil-Amarandh

I started reading a new series by an Australian author, Alison Croggon, per recommendation of one of our local librarians (who has similar reading likes.)  The first book in the series The Naming is wonderful.  The imagination and time that the author spent creating the entire world of Edil-Amarandh is absolutely astounding.  She has songs, fables, languages, maps, histories, and more.  Beyond that her characters have depth that makes you want more.

Maerad, our heroine, is a 17 (or so) year old girl who has been raised in slavery.  The conditions she is kept under in the village she lives in are horrific.  One day, when milking the cows, she discovers a man hiding in the hay.  Their meeting brings new changes to Maerad's world- a world of magic, excitement, finding the truth of her past, and discovering her hidden inner power.   

I thoroughly enjoyed this first book and already have the second one on my nightstand!