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Kiriath's Quest
Prince Kiriath travels to an enemy land to rescue his father from the evil Grishnaki.
- GenresFantasyMiddle Grade
190 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2002
1 person is currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Rick Barry
5 books170 followersRick Barry is the author of The Methuselah Project, Methuselah Project S.O.S., Gunner's Run, Kiriath's Quest, The Next Fithian, plus over 200 published articles and fiction stories. In addition to being a World War II buff, he has visited Eastern Europe over 50 times in connection with Christian ministries. He holds a degree in foreign languages and speaks Russian. Visit Rick at these sites:
Website: www.rickcbarry.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AuthorRickBarry
X: @WriterRickBarry
Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JPA39S.
Website: www.rickcbarry.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/AuthorRickBarry
X: @WriterRickBarry
Amazon Author: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001JPA39S.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
October 27, 2013
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths Reviews
Xandria is a kingdom of refugees, formed by the remnant of the mighty kingdom of Illria after its horrendous destruction. But whatever peace the people of Xandria found in their new homes is brief, because in this land of milk and honey they are confronted by the primitive and brutal Grishnaki tribes, who ever tried to enslave or destroy them. War engulfs the two peoples war for many years until finally an uneasy truce asserts itself, and so peace returns to the world. But like all things in the world, the only certainty is that things always change.
One fine morning King Jekoniah and Prince Kiriath are out for an early morning ride, enjoying the peaceful countryside surrounding the capital city of Shiralla when the fragile peace shatters. For the two were not expecting trouble so near to their home, and when hundreds of Grishnaki burst from the forests and ambush father and son, they are too far away from their protectors and unable to fight such overwhelming numbers. Thus, King Jekoniah is carried away by his enemies, while Prince Kiriath is left for dead.
When Prince Kiriath overcomes his injuries and returns home, he finds all in turmoil at his and his father’s disappearance. But before any rescue can be fully begun, things become even more muddled as a Grishnaki ambassador comes to the capital with a ransom proposal. All the primitives wish is a simple thing: teach them the way of steel and King Jekoniah will live. And while news that his father has survived is pleasing to Kiriath’s ears, he knows the ransom price is too great and would lead to the eventual destruction of his land.
The tale that follows is a fantasy adventure starring the reluctant hero Kiriath as he sets off on a quest to rescue his father in the impenetrable fortress valley of Dar-kon, mightiest of the Grishnaki kings. Naturally, the young prince does not go alone but with his truest friend Brand – and an unexpected companion. Along the way, Kiriath faces legendary monsters, discovers long dead civilizations and begins to uncover the intangible qualities that will someday make him a wise and mighty King of Xandria.
All in all, this novel is a fine read if you understand what it is: standard fantasy that is tailored more toward new readers or young adults. As long as you understand it is not grimdark fantasy but more the light fantasy variety then you will not be disappointed. Indeed, for this type of tale, Kiriath’s Quest is a solid piece of workmanship, filled with fantastical adventure, interesting characters, and even a rousing battle at the end. Well worth a try.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank Netgalley for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
Xandria is a kingdom of refugees, formed by the remnant of the mighty kingdom of Illria after its horrendous destruction. But whatever peace the people of Xandria found in their new homes is brief, because in this land of milk and honey they are confronted by the primitive and brutal Grishnaki tribes, who ever tried to enslave or destroy them. War engulfs the two peoples war for many years until finally an uneasy truce asserts itself, and so peace returns to the world. But like all things in the world, the only certainty is that things always change.
One fine morning King Jekoniah and Prince Kiriath are out for an early morning ride, enjoying the peaceful countryside surrounding the capital city of Shiralla when the fragile peace shatters. For the two were not expecting trouble so near to their home, and when hundreds of Grishnaki burst from the forests and ambush father and son, they are too far away from their protectors and unable to fight such overwhelming numbers. Thus, King Jekoniah is carried away by his enemies, while Prince Kiriath is left for dead.
When Prince Kiriath overcomes his injuries and returns home, he finds all in turmoil at his and his father’s disappearance. But before any rescue can be fully begun, things become even more muddled as a Grishnaki ambassador comes to the capital with a ransom proposal. All the primitives wish is a simple thing: teach them the way of steel and King Jekoniah will live. And while news that his father has survived is pleasing to Kiriath’s ears, he knows the ransom price is too great and would lead to the eventual destruction of his land.
The tale that follows is a fantasy adventure starring the reluctant hero Kiriath as he sets off on a quest to rescue his father in the impenetrable fortress valley of Dar-kon, mightiest of the Grishnaki kings. Naturally, the young prince does not go alone but with his truest friend Brand – and an unexpected companion. Along the way, Kiriath faces legendary monsters, discovers long dead civilizations and begins to uncover the intangible qualities that will someday make him a wise and mighty King of Xandria.
All in all, this novel is a fine read if you understand what it is: standard fantasy that is tailored more toward new readers or young adults. As long as you understand it is not grimdark fantasy but more the light fantasy variety then you will not be disappointed. Indeed, for this type of tale, Kiriath’s Quest is a solid piece of workmanship, filled with fantastical adventure, interesting characters, and even a rousing battle at the end. Well worth a try.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank Netgalley for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
November 13, 2019
This was really boring for the most part
September 16, 2013
American old times fantasy. Vaguely medieval setting with two antagonistic tribes. Some cases of uncommon language usage such as persistently using "as" for similes where "like" is usual could be an attempt at mythic old-style writing. But in a few cases, this and other examples of unidiomatic writing were so unnatural it seemed like it was incorrectly translated from another language.
Disquieting claims that Grishnaki are evil based on past war. What lesson is to be drawn?
Despite the introduction, I didn't get a clear moral message - (ignoring the good vs evil narrative which could be [over-]interpreted as totalitarianism) I didn't think it read didactically like a parable.
Should Kiriath, the Heir to the throne, have gone on the quest?
There was no author identification in the netgalley review copy.
Disquieting claims that Grishnaki are evil based on past war. What lesson is to be drawn?
Despite the introduction, I didn't get a clear moral message - (ignoring the good vs evil narrative which could be [over-]interpreted as totalitarianism) I didn't think it read didactically like a parable.
Should Kiriath, the Heir to the throne, have gone on the quest?
There was no author identification in the netgalley review copy.
August 3, 2013
Prince Kiriath is just an ordinary guy (albeit a prince) placed in extraordinary circumstances. Rick Barry calls him a reluctant hero.
For generations, the Grishnaki have tried to destroy the people of Shiralla. But never have the Grishnaki penetrated deep into Shiralla territory in great numbers. Then, one morning when King Jekoniah and Prince Kiriath are out for an early morning ride they are ambushed by a large number of Grishnaki warriors. King Jekoniah is kidnapped, and Prince Kiriath is left for dead.
Thus begins the extraordinary circumstances that make Prince Kiriath into a reluctant hero. The Grishnaki send word that they are holding King Jekoniah for ransom. But the price of the ransom is too high as it will eventually lead to the total destruction of the people of Shiralla. Kiriath sets out rescue his father from the Grishnaki valley.
Kiriath’s Quest is full of adventure and action. Facing danger each step of the way, Kiriath sneaks into the valley to save his father. Rick Barry’s writing is smooth and flowing. He holds the reader’s attention and keeps him on the edge of his seat. This novel, written for the teen/young adult audience is well written. I like the use of creatures and objects that can only be found in a book of fantasy. Rick sets the imagination soaring.
The people of Shiralla maintain their standards of integrity while satisfying justice as they deal with those who wish to exterminate them. Kiriath’s Quest makes you think about how you or I might handle situations where we can choose vengeance or mercy.
For generations, the Grishnaki have tried to destroy the people of Shiralla. But never have the Grishnaki penetrated deep into Shiralla territory in great numbers. Then, one morning when King Jekoniah and Prince Kiriath are out for an early morning ride they are ambushed by a large number of Grishnaki warriors. King Jekoniah is kidnapped, and Prince Kiriath is left for dead.
Thus begins the extraordinary circumstances that make Prince Kiriath into a reluctant hero. The Grishnaki send word that they are holding King Jekoniah for ransom. But the price of the ransom is too high as it will eventually lead to the total destruction of the people of Shiralla. Kiriath sets out rescue his father from the Grishnaki valley.
Kiriath’s Quest is full of adventure and action. Facing danger each step of the way, Kiriath sneaks into the valley to save his father. Rick Barry’s writing is smooth and flowing. He holds the reader’s attention and keeps him on the edge of his seat. This novel, written for the teen/young adult audience is well written. I like the use of creatures and objects that can only be found in a book of fantasy. Rick sets the imagination soaring.
The people of Shiralla maintain their standards of integrity while satisfying justice as they deal with those who wish to exterminate them. Kiriath’s Quest makes you think about how you or I might handle situations where we can choose vengeance or mercy.
June 11, 2009
Review by Jill Williamson
King Jekoniah and Prince Kiriath are out riding around Castle Shiralla when they are ambushed by Grishnaki. The king is taken captive. The prince returns home to inform his mother and sister of what happened. A Grishnaki ambassador comes to Shiralla to offer the enemy terms. They will trade the man-king back for the secret of crafting steel.
Prince Kiriath knows that this price is too high. If their enemy, who are already larger and live longer, were to learn the secret of steel, they would annihilate the people of Shiralla. The ambassador gives the queen seven days to decide, which gives Prince Kiriath seven days to make it to Grishnaki land and rescue his father.
This was a fun medieval fantasy. My kind of story, really. I liked Kiriath, his sister, and his friend, Brand quite a bit. The dialogue in this story was fun. There were a few scenes where the adventurers encountered strange creatures: flying snakes and living vines. I wasn’t prepared for that and felt like I was suddenly in a different story where these things were possible. Maybe some comment of such fantastical beings in the beginning of the story would help these later scenes feel like they belonged in the same world. The story includes a very realistic battle and plants some interesting developments that lead me to wonder if a sequel might be planned. I hope so. It would be fun to read more about Prince Kiriath. Recommended.
King Jekoniah and Prince Kiriath are out riding around Castle Shiralla when they are ambushed by Grishnaki. The king is taken captive. The prince returns home to inform his mother and sister of what happened. A Grishnaki ambassador comes to Shiralla to offer the enemy terms. They will trade the man-king back for the secret of crafting steel.
Prince Kiriath knows that this price is too high. If their enemy, who are already larger and live longer, were to learn the secret of steel, they would annihilate the people of Shiralla. The ambassador gives the queen seven days to decide, which gives Prince Kiriath seven days to make it to Grishnaki land and rescue his father.
This was a fun medieval fantasy. My kind of story, really. I liked Kiriath, his sister, and his friend, Brand quite a bit. The dialogue in this story was fun. There were a few scenes where the adventurers encountered strange creatures: flying snakes and living vines. I wasn’t prepared for that and felt like I was suddenly in a different story where these things were possible. Maybe some comment of such fantastical beings in the beginning of the story would help these later scenes feel like they belonged in the same world. The story includes a very realistic battle and plants some interesting developments that lead me to wonder if a sequel might be planned. I hope so. It would be fun to read more about Prince Kiriath. Recommended.
January 1, 2014
Prince Kiriath and his father, King Jekoniah, are ambushed by the feared Grishnaki. Kiriath narrowly escapes while his father is taken captive.
The Grishnaki ask for a ransom too great, and time is running out, so Kiriath and his faithful friend Brand set out on a quest to the valley of the Grishnaki to save the king. Will they be able to save Kiriath's father?
An adventure to be sure, though at times I felt there was perhaps a little too much talk as some of the conversations seemed to linger overlong in the same pattern.
Friendships are forged and strengthened, as they join together to fight for The King's life.
In books like these I often have trouble keeping the characters straight with their unique names, but with this book I had no such problem and was able to follow along quite nicely. This book is full of surprises, like flying snakes and other such things that took me by surprise.
Overall, this would be a great book for the 9-16 age group, with admirable heroes who act honorably and have a strong sense of duty. This book made for a fun adventure, that introduced me to a whole new world with unique dangers.
The Grishnaki ask for a ransom too great, and time is running out, so Kiriath and his faithful friend Brand set out on a quest to the valley of the Grishnaki to save the king. Will they be able to save Kiriath's father?
An adventure to be sure, though at times I felt there was perhaps a little too much talk as some of the conversations seemed to linger overlong in the same pattern.
Friendships are forged and strengthened, as they join together to fight for The King's life.
In books like these I often have trouble keeping the characters straight with their unique names, but with this book I had no such problem and was able to follow along quite nicely. This book is full of surprises, like flying snakes and other such things that took me by surprise.
Overall, this would be a great book for the 9-16 age group, with admirable heroes who act honorably and have a strong sense of duty. This book made for a fun adventure, that introduced me to a whole new world with unique dangers.
Read
July 25, 2011This book has action, adventure, treachery, hardship, friendship, duty and strategy. Everything works together to make this book hard to put down. Kiriath's Quest to rescue his father takes him to remote areas of his kingdom and beyond the kingdom into strange uninhabited lands. His journey also brings him to greater knowledge of himself and his responsibilities, greater understanding of his companion and of the people he meets, and a greater appreciation for the history of his people. Kiriath has to use his physical skills and mental abilities to effect the rescue and defeat the king's captors. This novel has already become one of my favorites. I look forward to reading it again. Now I want to read the other books by this author. Of course, there's always hope for a sequel to Kiriath's Quest. There's a great deal of territory that could be explored in another adventure in this country.
April 2, 2014
Kiriath is on a secret morning ride with his father, King Jekoniah when they are attacked by Grishnak and while Kiriath falls and is left for dead the Grishnak kidnap the King. Xandria is given seven days to meet the Grishnak demands or the king is dead. Instead of waiting Kiriath and his friend Brand head out to rescue the king in uncharted enemy territory.
Overall this was a well-paced book that left readers guessing as to what was going to happen next. The characters were well thought out and each day that they traveled seemed to be paced out well. I thought the ending happened a little too fast but at the same time everything was wrapped up (if not a little too nicely).
I received this advanced copy from Journey Forth through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
Overall this was a well-paced book that left readers guessing as to what was going to happen next. The characters were well thought out and each day that they traveled seemed to be paced out well. I thought the ending happened a little too fast but at the same time everything was wrapped up (if not a little too nicely).
I received this advanced copy from Journey Forth through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 31, 2016
Kiriath's Quest by Rick Barry is full of loyalty, treachery, adventure and enchantment. Even a little love story finds its way onto the sidelines for the hopeless romantic to enjoy. Rick Barry jumps in with an exhilarating start and right away there is a sense of foreboding. It was exciting to see how the story played out in the end and on several occasions the suspense had me rushing ahead. I loved the characters in this book--even the scoundrels were intriguing. Barry was able to deliver a remarkable war story without making it too gory or difficult to read. Anyone who loves action and adventure will enjoy this young adult book!
For full review go to http://www.compassbookratings.com/rev...
For full review go to http://www.compassbookratings.com/rev...
June 27, 2014
Kiriath's Quest
Rick Barry
Copyright 2008
For those who like fantasy I think Kiriath's Quest will fit the bill.
Prince Kiriath and his father King Jekoniah are being attacked by Grishnaki. Prince Kiriath has escaped but King Jekoniah has not fared as well. Xandria is given a week to meet the Grishnakis demand or they will kill the king. Kiriath and his friend Brand devide to go rescue King Jekoniah.
Will Prince Kiriath and his friend be able to rescue King Jekoniah or will they all be killed in the attempt?
The adventure in this book is non stop.
For young and old Fantasy lovers Kiriath's Quest is a must read.
Five out of five stars.
Happy Reading
Michelle
Rick Barry
Copyright 2008
For those who like fantasy I think Kiriath's Quest will fit the bill.
Prince Kiriath and his father King Jekoniah are being attacked by Grishnaki. Prince Kiriath has escaped but King Jekoniah has not fared as well. Xandria is given a week to meet the Grishnakis demand or they will kill the king. Kiriath and his friend Brand devide to go rescue King Jekoniah.
Will Prince Kiriath and his friend be able to rescue King Jekoniah or will they all be killed in the attempt?
The adventure in this book is non stop.
For young and old Fantasy lovers Kiriath's Quest is a must read.
Five out of five stars.
Happy Reading
Michelle
September 2, 2013
Got a free copy of this book from net galley. Never heard of the author or the title but what a great read! Interesting characters with depth and room for growth. Mysterious lands to explore and well written battle scenes. A few plot twists were pretty obviously going to happen but I still enjoyed them even if they were predictable. Excellent fantasy novel! Wish there were more books from this world!
September 5, 2013
See full book review at http://www.compassbookratings.com/rev...
November 13, 2015
A nice middle-grade quest/classic fantasy book. May seem slow to older readers, but I would give it 5/5 stars for middle grade readers.
August 18, 2016
The world was masterfully built.
The suspense wonderful.
Interspersed with humor so typical between best friends.
The suspense wonderful.
Interspersed with humor so typical between best friends.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews