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Tanith Prophecy #1
Dark One Rising
The Kingdom of Aelethia has been quiet for five hundred years, but the Dark One is rising from out of the depths. All of Aelethia will perish unless the Chosen One comes forward to save them. Unfortunately, the Chosen One doesn’t know her destiny in the world; she only knows she is odd and confused about where her destiny lies.She wants to find love, but the men in her life that actually love her, she cannot have, and the only one that wants her is as evil as they come. The elves know of her destiny and must tell her and train her in time in order to fulfill the prophesy that has been laid out before her. Can she become the person they have waited for? Can she, in time, destroy the evil that is threatening to overtake her kingdom? With friends to guide her and a man to whom she truly loves beside her, she may be able to save Aelethia from doom.
- GenresFantasy
412 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
600 people want to read
About the author
Leandra Martin
11 books14 followersLeandra Martin was born in Southbridge, Massachusetts. From early on she was a book worm, reading anything she could get her hands on, but her biggest love was fantasy/science fiction, like the works of David Eddings and Roger Zelazny. As a child she wrote a couple of children’s books, but knew that writing a novel was what she wanted to do. She received an AA degree in Broadcasting/Communications, spent a few years in radio, and participated for many years in community theater. She currently lives in Oregon with her husband and cat Shadow.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 8, 2014
*I received this book free from Inkwater Press in exchange for an honest review*
There are a lot of characters in this book, and yes they are all important in some way, and I may have highlighted names and titles as I went as not to forget or confuse anyone later. (Love my kindle and its highlight feature!)
The Kingdom of Aelethia may have been divided into the four kingdoms of Isamar, Xenos, Aaralyn, and Azlyn after their last great war over five hundred years ago, but they have all lived in peace since then. Some even creating great alliances while others stayed to themselves. But greed and desire for the ultimate power creeps into one man’s heart. Fallon, the Duke of Xenos, uses his gift for the dark arts to call forth The Dark One to gain the power needed to conquer the four kingdoms and create one kingdom under his rule. With evil creatures and his army of men he becomes an unstoppable plague that begins to sweep through the countryside.
Melenthia, Princess of Aaralyn, has always been odd. She’s stubborn, enjoys boyish things like swordplay, and refuses to fall for any man’s sweet words because words and actions are far from the same and seldom match. For this reason she hasn’t chosen to marry, and because of that her father promises her hand to the only suitor still interested, Fallon. Being married to the evil Duke of Xenos isn’t something she will allow herself to do, but is she willing to give up everything else in order to flee from her impending nuptials? Damn straight!
With the assistance of her brother, Kevaan, King Dainard, Alekzand’r, Tomaz, and Sol, Melenthia will not only escape, but will learn her role in the Tanith Prophecy and find the one thing she’s always been missing…love. But while she is hiding, villages continue to be destroyed and land ravaged by Fallon and his men.
Will she be able to stop Fallon? That’s a question I can’t wait to find the answer to. Guess I’ll be reading Aelethia’s Hope…like right now!
My Favorite Moments: The day at the pond and a refusal to swim, and a moment in the garden when confessions are made. Both of these moments are linked and they both lead to the same moment.
“I want to protect you, to wrap my arms around you and keep you from harm. I know you don’t need or want it, but I can’t help it. I’ve fallen in love with you.”
My Favorite Quotes: “She has the intellect and body of a grown woman, but the heart and soul of a child.”
“He fancies you, Melenthia, and I don’t mean that he’s entertained by you. I think that boy is falling in love.”
“I would be lost without you. I’d die for you.”
There are a lot of characters in this book, and yes they are all important in some way, and I may have highlighted names and titles as I went as not to forget or confuse anyone later. (Love my kindle and its highlight feature!)
The Kingdom of Aelethia may have been divided into the four kingdoms of Isamar, Xenos, Aaralyn, and Azlyn after their last great war over five hundred years ago, but they have all lived in peace since then. Some even creating great alliances while others stayed to themselves. But greed and desire for the ultimate power creeps into one man’s heart. Fallon, the Duke of Xenos, uses his gift for the dark arts to call forth The Dark One to gain the power needed to conquer the four kingdoms and create one kingdom under his rule. With evil creatures and his army of men he becomes an unstoppable plague that begins to sweep through the countryside.
Melenthia, Princess of Aaralyn, has always been odd. She’s stubborn, enjoys boyish things like swordplay, and refuses to fall for any man’s sweet words because words and actions are far from the same and seldom match. For this reason she hasn’t chosen to marry, and because of that her father promises her hand to the only suitor still interested, Fallon. Being married to the evil Duke of Xenos isn’t something she will allow herself to do, but is she willing to give up everything else in order to flee from her impending nuptials? Damn straight!
With the assistance of her brother, Kevaan, King Dainard, Alekzand’r, Tomaz, and Sol, Melenthia will not only escape, but will learn her role in the Tanith Prophecy and find the one thing she’s always been missing…love. But while she is hiding, villages continue to be destroyed and land ravaged by Fallon and his men.
Will she be able to stop Fallon? That’s a question I can’t wait to find the answer to. Guess I’ll be reading Aelethia’s Hope…like right now!
My Favorite Moments: The day at the pond and a refusal to swim, and a moment in the garden when confessions are made. Both of these moments are linked and they both lead to the same moment.
“I want to protect you, to wrap my arms around you and keep you from harm. I know you don’t need or want it, but I can’t help it. I’ve fallen in love with you.”
My Favorite Quotes: “She has the intellect and body of a grown woman, but the heart and soul of a child.”
“He fancies you, Melenthia, and I don’t mean that he’s entertained by you. I think that boy is falling in love.”
“I would be lost without you. I’d die for you.”
April 28, 2014
Richly evocative epic fantasy with a sprinkling of enchanting romance!
Amid the sweeping storyline is a magnetic undertone that speaks to the soul and tugs at the strings of human emotion. With tense anticipation I followed the main protagonist’s journey, as they encountered earth-shattering events of great consequence (both actual and metaphorically speaking). As the story progresses I found myself drawn ever deeper into the intense relationship between the two main characters; especially as I am a romantic at heart! The author creates an authentic, brilliantly realized backdrop that compliments the detailed narrative so that you are able to clearly envisage everything. Containing a cast of captivating characters and creatures, Leandra Martin’s brilliant book contains classic high/ epic fantasy elements with a refreshingly original ‘twist’. The deep emotional ties and heart of her characters, add depth and an acute intensity to the story so as to pull you into the plot.
“I’d be lost without you.
I’d die for you…”
“He fancies you, Melenthia, and I don’t mean that he’s entertained by you. I think that boy is falling in love.”
’Dark One Rising’ is an exquisitely woven, intricate story full of profound poignancy and heartrending moments that make you melt. Character-driven and action-packed this book takes you on a thrilling adventure that you won’t be forgetting in a hurry. With Elves, Dwarves, Giants and evil Sorcerers this fantasy encapsulates all the recognizable elements of the genre and yet Leandra Martin’s writing style is so fresh and modern. Fans of contemporary fiction (such as Brandon Sanderson and Terry Brooks) will find this breathtakingly compelling novel a wonderful edition to the bookshelf, and an entirely ‘new’ read of engaging and readability.
The Kingdom of Aelethia is a place wherein magic and mystery collide, with ancient prophecies and ambitious tyrants seek dominance and supremacy over all. It is a story about heroism and forbidden love, in a world wrought with a dark evil power that’s rising from the shadows. Taken on a sensational journey, I was fascinated by how the characters grew and developed throughout the book leading up to the climatic ending.
I am most impressed by this well written novel and so I look forward with interest as to book 2 in the Tanith Prophecy series.
*I would like to thank the author for providing me with a physical copy of her novel to read and review *
Amid the sweeping storyline is a magnetic undertone that speaks to the soul and tugs at the strings of human emotion. With tense anticipation I followed the main protagonist’s journey, as they encountered earth-shattering events of great consequence (both actual and metaphorically speaking). As the story progresses I found myself drawn ever deeper into the intense relationship between the two main characters; especially as I am a romantic at heart! The author creates an authentic, brilliantly realized backdrop that compliments the detailed narrative so that you are able to clearly envisage everything. Containing a cast of captivating characters and creatures, Leandra Martin’s brilliant book contains classic high/ epic fantasy elements with a refreshingly original ‘twist’. The deep emotional ties and heart of her characters, add depth and an acute intensity to the story so as to pull you into the plot.
“I’d be lost without you.
I’d die for you…”
“He fancies you, Melenthia, and I don’t mean that he’s entertained by you. I think that boy is falling in love.”
’Dark One Rising’ is an exquisitely woven, intricate story full of profound poignancy and heartrending moments that make you melt. Character-driven and action-packed this book takes you on a thrilling adventure that you won’t be forgetting in a hurry. With Elves, Dwarves, Giants and evil Sorcerers this fantasy encapsulates all the recognizable elements of the genre and yet Leandra Martin’s writing style is so fresh and modern. Fans of contemporary fiction (such as Brandon Sanderson and Terry Brooks) will find this breathtakingly compelling novel a wonderful edition to the bookshelf, and an entirely ‘new’ read of engaging and readability.
The Kingdom of Aelethia is a place wherein magic and mystery collide, with ancient prophecies and ambitious tyrants seek dominance and supremacy over all. It is a story about heroism and forbidden love, in a world wrought with a dark evil power that’s rising from the shadows. Taken on a sensational journey, I was fascinated by how the characters grew and developed throughout the book leading up to the climatic ending.
I am most impressed by this well written novel and so I look forward with interest as to book 2 in the Tanith Prophecy series.
*I would like to thank the author for providing me with a physical copy of her novel to read and review *
March 23, 2014
Initially, what drew me to want and participate in this tour, is the synopsis of Dark One Rising. At first read, I knew I had to read this book! A plot that circles around the ideals of good and evil, a strong heroine, and of course, romance, how could I resist?! Mentioning again for the,- who knows how many times, that I am a lover of fantasies, especially one that corporates a satisfying bit of everything; when I wanted action, I got it. When I wanted silly-bonds of friendship, I got it, and when I feel the book needs to be a bit more cheesy, I got it. I love discovering amazing authors whose writing captivates me, Leandra Martin, is one of them.
Both book one and two really allows you to slip into that era of magic, demanding roles of men and women, class, war, and what was considered evil or good. I fell for Melenthia, her brother Keevan, King Dain, and Alek … heck, I loved them all! Even the horrid and disturbing, bad guy, Fallon—in his eerie way—captures your attention. That is how you know the author is one you want to keep top on your list of brilliant writers; they make you hate the villains, with passion.
As I was saying, before I reminded myself of how much I detest Fallon, Dark One Rising is like a flashback or some type of memory that I see through a looking glass, that leads you back to the past. The overall mood is both light in book one, and becomes nearing gravely in book two. It was both thrilling and sad to read of the character's changes: emotionally, mentally, and physically, due to dire events. It's like they become familiar—your friends, and reading about how dire things turned out for them, when everything was good and giddy in the beginning is … sad. I probably cried a few times throughout book one and two. And there were countless times, when I thought how lucky and envious I am of Melenthia--she has ALL these people who are willing to sacrifice themselves for her (not that I want someone to do anything of such)--they love her and value her friendship, which is hard to find now and days.
Minor factors that did not change my rating for the book, but I think you would like to know, is that there were a few parts in the middle part of book one and first half of book two that, slowed down a bit, however, trust me, it is worth it.
Loved, everything about this two-book series! It needs to be shown more love, so fantasy lovers check it out!
Both book one and two really allows you to slip into that era of magic, demanding roles of men and women, class, war, and what was considered evil or good. I fell for Melenthia, her brother Keevan, King Dain, and Alek … heck, I loved them all! Even the horrid and disturbing, bad guy, Fallon—in his eerie way—captures your attention. That is how you know the author is one you want to keep top on your list of brilliant writers; they make you hate the villains, with passion.
As I was saying, before I reminded myself of how much I detest Fallon, Dark One Rising is like a flashback or some type of memory that I see through a looking glass, that leads you back to the past. The overall mood is both light in book one, and becomes nearing gravely in book two. It was both thrilling and sad to read of the character's changes: emotionally, mentally, and physically, due to dire events. It's like they become familiar—your friends, and reading about how dire things turned out for them, when everything was good and giddy in the beginning is … sad. I probably cried a few times throughout book one and two. And there were countless times, when I thought how lucky and envious I am of Melenthia--she has ALL these people who are willing to sacrifice themselves for her (not that I want someone to do anything of such)--they love her and value her friendship, which is hard to find now and days.
Minor factors that did not change my rating for the book, but I think you would like to know, is that there were a few parts in the middle part of book one and first half of book two that, slowed down a bit, however, trust me, it is worth it.
Loved, everything about this two-book series! It needs to be shown more love, so fantasy lovers check it out!
August 5, 2016
ALSO CROSS POSTED ON MY BLOG.
The book starts with the king waiting for his wife's delivery. A girl is born and a fate is sealed. I loved the book because: one, it has a kickass female lead and two, it is full of adventure! I mean, how many times have you read a book or series that revolves around a female 'chosen one'? Though I have some issues with the overly used cliche 'Chosen One' throughout the series, a girl being one really made up for that to a great extent.
I think I love Mel! Though at times she behaves real immature and I felt like asking her what on earth was such a big deal I couldn't dislike her. She is from such a time where women were basically used for showcasing their beauty to 'noble men' and they didn't even have the right to say anything for their life altering decisions. Guess she was born in the wrong place at the wrong time. Except for a few friends and her brother Keevan, everybody thought she is not a proper lady. Until she is encountered by King Dainard ofcourse.
One thing I liked about Dain is that the author had not tried to portray him as an all-virtuous hero. He is a realistically flawed character. He is a promiscuous, flirtatious, womenizer and an irresponsible king looking for excuses to procrastinate in his duties. However, his life and character takes an unlikely 360 degree turn when he meets Melenthia. The romance part is pretty predictable, yet you cannot shun it as boring or dragging or useless, because Dain unknowingly helps Mel fulfill half of the prophecy.
Throughout book 1, Melenthia's protests, her reaction after knowing her identity and goal, her struggles to fight Fallon while the Rise is near, and not to mention the journey of Dain and Mel from strangers to something more than friends keeps you well occupied. There are moments, however, where I felt the story was dragging. There are descriptions of things I felt were unnecessary. I'm not much of a details person. Too much details tends to bore me really. But thankfully the characters and the story were engrossing enough to keep me going till the end.
The book starts with the king waiting for his wife's delivery. A girl is born and a fate is sealed. I loved the book because: one, it has a kickass female lead and two, it is full of adventure! I mean, how many times have you read a book or series that revolves around a female 'chosen one'? Though I have some issues with the overly used cliche 'Chosen One' throughout the series, a girl being one really made up for that to a great extent.
I think I love Mel! Though at times she behaves real immature and I felt like asking her what on earth was such a big deal I couldn't dislike her. She is from such a time where women were basically used for showcasing their beauty to 'noble men' and they didn't even have the right to say anything for their life altering decisions. Guess she was born in the wrong place at the wrong time. Except for a few friends and her brother Keevan, everybody thought she is not a proper lady. Until she is encountered by King Dainard ofcourse.
One thing I liked about Dain is that the author had not tried to portray him as an all-virtuous hero. He is a realistically flawed character. He is a promiscuous, flirtatious, womenizer and an irresponsible king looking for excuses to procrastinate in his duties. However, his life and character takes an unlikely 360 degree turn when he meets Melenthia. The romance part is pretty predictable, yet you cannot shun it as boring or dragging or useless, because Dain unknowingly helps Mel fulfill half of the prophecy.
Throughout book 1, Melenthia's protests, her reaction after knowing her identity and goal, her struggles to fight Fallon while the Rise is near, and not to mention the journey of Dain and Mel from strangers to something more than friends keeps you well occupied. There are moments, however, where I felt the story was dragging. There are descriptions of things I felt were unnecessary. I'm not much of a details person. Too much details tends to bore me really. But thankfully the characters and the story were engrossing enough to keep me going till the end.
July 9, 2013
I read through the entirety of the "Dark One Rising," an epic fantasy fiction tale by Leandra Martin, in just a few days. In addition to typical fantasy elements—such as elves, dwarves, giants, and evil sorcerers bent on world dominion—it also portrays well thought-out characters with a lot of heart and deep emotional ties. Characters are meticulously developed and clearly experience growth and change during the course of the novel.
This book is highly recommended to fantasy readers who are romantics at heart. You are bound to enjoy the developing relationship between protagonists that unfolds as the story progresses.
This book is highly recommended to fantasy readers who are romantics at heart. You are bound to enjoy the developing relationship between protagonists that unfolds as the story progresses.
May 8, 2015
I won a free copy of the 2nd book in a Goodreads contest and was glad they included the first one. I adore this book and it held my attention from start to finish. There is romance, humor, drama, twists, surprises, and much more. It's a typical good vs. evil placed in the Middle Ages but I love that the hero to save the world is placed on the shoulders of a female in her 20's. Leandra Martin does a great job in making a female character that is not someone trying to be a man to save the world, but a strong woman who carries her femininity as well. This is a book that I could read over and over again while still enjoying it every time.
August 16, 2013
It has been quiet for 500 years but it is quiet no more! Drama and suspense build quickly in this masterfully crafted fantasy. The author has created an epic world with descriptions that make feel like being there. The characters come to life in a way that immediately made me know them and care. Dark One Rising is a breathtaking ride that seldom slows. Looking forward to the next book!
March 27, 2016
I had gotten this book because I won the second in the series through Goodreads First Reads and I loved every minute of it. The cover art is obviously beautiful and the story inside matches it a lot. Two things I have to complain about, the length of the book was a little boring in some parts but these slow parts were needed for later parts of the story as not to confuse the readers, and second was some of the language that was used didn't fit the time period. But other than that this book was really awesome and kept me on the edge of my seat with all of the romantic notions, action, and plotting! I absolutely adored how the bad guys had hidden agendas that were slightly known but not truly since they were even hiding it from themselves (especially with the Dark One). Fans of Game of Thrones and Tamora Pierce will adore this book, with all of its twists, turns, romance, and great heroine that everyone will fall in love with.
November 15, 2014
Well this was an okay read. There were times when it held my interest and then times when I would put it down for a couple of days. The beginning seemed to hold my interest more than towards the end. It almost seemed rushed yet dragging at the same time (if that makes sense. But really no other way I can think of to describe it). It is clean (meaning nothing graphic which I'm extremely grateful for). As to whether I would read the next one...*shrugs* perhaps. Would I recommend? Try the sample first.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.
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April 14, 2015Wheel of time?!!!!
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