THE GIFT OF REDEMPTION: BOOK TWO OF THE ASPHODEL CYCLE
By Celina Summers
Publisher: Aspen Mountain Press
www.AspenMountainPress.com
Genre: Fantasy with romantic elements
ISBN: 978-1-60168-108-9
Pages: eBook: 461
Price: eBook: $6.99
Every leader pays a price.
Once again Celina Summers captivates her reader. Once again we battle along side Tamsen Ka`antira de Asphodel as she struggles against her evil uncle.
Once again we’re left holding our breath and again and again.
MORE!
In Book One, Tamsen defeated the traitor, Jeshan de Callat. Now Tamsen, her husband Brial, her Ka`antira Uncle Wilden, and all are determined to see a just and independent King on the throne. Someone who will lead and watch over the people; someone who is not evil Gabril de Spesialle’s puppet…or anyone’s puppet.
Then and only then can Tamsen strike Spesialle; however, Brial may have some say in that matter.
Yes, Brial and Tamsen keep arguing, keep loving, and keep struggling to protect the other one. This relationship is the soul of Ms. Summers’ epic. She has created two characters that are each other’s foundation and the foundation for those around them. The very idea that this tale could continue without one of them is impossible. They are their perfect match, their perfect balance and counter-balance.
However, as with any heroic and effective tale, characters must be allowed to change and follow their path. How and why else would we readers keep coming back? We demand, even when we hate it, our characters to be real within the telling of the story.
Ms. Summers knows this and takes her readers on a world-wind journey of genre reality and surprises. Never ever underestimate what Ms. Summers has planned next.
Ms. Summers creates battles that rival any historic saga. Her leaders are precise and flawed. Her heroes are worthy.
Their sacrifices heavy. They have learned that with every blessing from the gods there is a price to be paid. What more do the gods/goddesses want from Tamsen?
There have been times I have felt cheated when reading a fantasy quest…Ms. Summers never cheats. Each of her books is packed with intensity and gentleness. Still she leaves you craving more.
While reading “Gift of Redemption” I felt there was an underlying meaning to Tamsen’s journey. There is more to her adventure and battle, she is learning her own truth, her strength of being.
How does a writer capture this? This is the craft of writing, which Ms. Summers dominates.
“Gift of Redemption” is filled with struggles, politics, laughter, secrets, and quests. I cannot tell you the entire story without destroying Ms. Summers’ masterful build-up.
Enjoy and let the surprises astound you.