Two Rivers: The Great Peacemaker Series Book 1 by Zoe Saadia

I was genuinely impressed by the clever interspersing of historical knowledge and research and a riveting plot that contained all the elements that I enjoy in a novel; action, drama, interpersonal layers and or course a hint of romance. The main character, Two Rivers leads a life of reflection as he questions the warlike practices of his tribe’s culture. He sees the logic of pursuing and maintaining a peaceful partnership with neighboring clans. A lasting peace would allow for a greater focus on the home life and providing for the tribes that are dwindling in numbers and strength due to starvation and battle. He becomes paired with an unlikely ally, a teenager who was recently adopted from an opposing tribe. This young man is having more trouble being accepted by Two River’s tribe than he himself is. A rivalry leaves the boy with little options for a workable resolution that will allow him any quality of life within the tribe. Two Rivers suggests an extreme solution that sets a series of events into motion that cannot be undone. Ultimately, the partnership between the two men allows both to come closer to understanding and pursuing the separate prophesies that each was issued in unrelated lives in completely different tribes. I am ready to delve into the sequel!