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Five Corners: The Marked Ones
Growing up in a sleepy village untouched by distant wars and political conflicts, it was easy for Thia, Mina and Kiara to forget such horrors existed in the Five Corners. That is until the dead child is found; a child that bears the same strange birthmark that all three sisters possess. A Mark their mother had always told them was unique to the girls. Kiara's suspicions grow as their Inn is soon overrun with outsiders from all walks of life. Strangers, soldiers and Elders who all seem to know more about what is happening than the girls do. After Mina barely survives an attack in the forest, the sisters are faced with a shattering secret their mother has kept from them for years. As danger closes in around them, the sisters are forced from their home and must put their trust in the hands of strangers. With more questions than answers, Kiara finds herself separated from everyone she loves and reliant on an Outlander who has spent too much time in army. She doesn't trust Caedmon but she needs him if she has any hope of being reunited with her sisters and learning what the Mark might mean.
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
294 pages, Paperback
First published January 29, 2014
3 people are currently reading
552 people want to read
About the author
Cathi Shaw
12 books93 followersCathi Shaw lives in Summerland, BC with her husband and three children. She is often found wandering around her home, muttering in a seemingly incoherent manner, particularly when her characters have embarked on new adventure. In addition to writing fiction, she is the co-author of the textbook Writing Today and the true story, Surviving Logan.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 7, 2014
The Bookie Monster received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to both Cathi Shaw and Goddess Fish Promotions for allowing us to be a part of this tour.
I really liked this book and see this series being something great. My only frustration with series is that the first book usually serves as the "Who's Who" for all subsequent books....a family tree of sorts.... and by the time you start to get into the heart of the story it's over. But that's good for the author because now you are hooked and want to find out what's going to happen; so you wait for books two, three, etc. I know I will definitely be on the lookout for the rest of this series!
Three adopted sisters, plenty of secrets, and a strange mark that adorns all three. They've no idea what this mark means and believe that they are the only ones who bear it. When strangers show up at the Inn the girls help their mother run, secrets begin to unravel and as much as the girls may want the truth; are they prepared for what they are about to learn? Are they ready to face the perils that come along with the knowledge?
Ms. Shaw does an excellent job of weaving a world full of magic, mystical creatures, and different races of people. A lot of scenes are set not only with words, but with the dialogue between characters. It's hard to tell at most points who is the "bad guy" in all of this. Who should our characters trust? I like that we are kept guessing.
The characters are very well developed and most are likable. I'm sure that even with the best written characters we always pick out one that we don't like for one reason or another...for me that character was Weylan. I can't put my finger on exactly why, but I just never could like him. The sisters are all as different as night and day and through each peril that they face I found myself hoping they would pull through and found myself rooting for the fledgling relationships/friendships that were building.
I still truly believe that no matter how successful the first book in a series is, the second book will set the precedence for the rest. I can't wait to see what happens to these characters, what adventures they will go on next and how the prophecy will all play out.
I really liked this book and see this series being something great. My only frustration with series is that the first book usually serves as the "Who's Who" for all subsequent books....a family tree of sorts.... and by the time you start to get into the heart of the story it's over. But that's good for the author because now you are hooked and want to find out what's going to happen; so you wait for books two, three, etc. I know I will definitely be on the lookout for the rest of this series!
Three adopted sisters, plenty of secrets, and a strange mark that adorns all three. They've no idea what this mark means and believe that they are the only ones who bear it. When strangers show up at the Inn the girls help their mother run, secrets begin to unravel and as much as the girls may want the truth; are they prepared for what they are about to learn? Are they ready to face the perils that come along with the knowledge?
Ms. Shaw does an excellent job of weaving a world full of magic, mystical creatures, and different races of people. A lot of scenes are set not only with words, but with the dialogue between characters. It's hard to tell at most points who is the "bad guy" in all of this. Who should our characters trust? I like that we are kept guessing.
The characters are very well developed and most are likable. I'm sure that even with the best written characters we always pick out one that we don't like for one reason or another...for me that character was Weylan. I can't put my finger on exactly why, but I just never could like him. The sisters are all as different as night and day and through each peril that they face I found myself hoping they would pull through and found myself rooting for the fledgling relationships/friendships that were building.
I still truly believe that no matter how successful the first book in a series is, the second book will set the precedence for the rest. I can't wait to see what happens to these characters, what adventures they will go on next and how the prophecy will all play out.
July 18, 2014
Cathi Shaw's first book, The Marked Ones, of her Five Corners series is a beautifully written book! Three sisters are marked for a purpose they have yet to uncover. Intriguing characters, plots of death, mysterious powers, strange attractions, and a few challenging journeys mark this debut fantasy novel as a must read!
February 4, 2014
It was totally wicked! Highly suggest reading it!
February 19, 2019
Reviewed at: http://queenofteenfiction.blogspot.co...
There’s a wonderful mixture of action, adventure, mystery, and a hint of romance in this exciting first instalment of the Five Corners series.
For starters, I’m extremely thankful that Cathi had a page at the start of the book that included the proper pronunciation of the names and words included in the story. Without that page, I really would have struggled to pronounce half of them! If more authors had a page like that at the start, I’d be a very happy reader.
The Marked Ones follows the story of three sisters; Mina, Thia, and Kiara. They aren’t biological sisters, but they were raised together by their foster mother, Brijit. They’re all very different girls when it comes to looks and personality, but they all have something in common: the Mark.
The Mark appears on children in the Five Corners for no apparent reason, and children with the Mark have started to show up dead. Throughout the story, the three girls strive to learn more about the Mark and what it means, and also discover that they’re not as alone as they once thought.
The story begins when Weylon, an Outlander, and his two sons; Teague and Caedmon, show up at the Inn that Brijit runs with her daughters. Kiara and Caedmon take an instant dislike to each other, whilst Teague and Thia are shocked to see that the other is real after seeing one another in their dreams.
The group are forced together after an attack leaves Mina in grave danger. With Teague and Caedmon also having the Mark, they are sent on a journey to Seremela, the home of the Elders, to be kept safe.
The unique qualities to each of the girls are part of what made the story so exciting to read. As we follow each of them, we’re getting a different story and a different personality, and it keeps us hooked from chapter to chapter.
I enjoyed the group being broken apart during their travels, it meant that we got to see each of the sisters in a different situation, and it also meant we got to see a little more of the Five Corners. I loved all of the characters, which is quite a rare thing! There’s usually one who I don’t enjoy reading about, or one who I prefer to the others, but in this story they are all as equally wonderful.
The relationship development between Kiara and Caedmon is beautifully done. They’re both just as stubborn as each other and it means that neither of them is willing to admit their true feelings, which is frustrating, but great to read. Towards the end of the story, I really wanted to bang their heads together!
I’m completely intrigued by Teague and Thia’s story. I hope we get to find out more about their previous dream meetings later on in the series. They have a lot of history together, and I want to read about it. I really liked the interactions between the two of them, and I found myself anticipating their scenes together.
Mina is a really sweet character, and I get the feeling she’ll be the calm amongst the storm in the future of the series. She seems to be the sister that is more likely to keep the peace and not lose her head in any tense situations. I was really happy with the reveal of Meldiron and I can’t wait to read more of what it means for Mina.
This is a tricky story to work out, and it’s difficult to figure out who the actual enemy is. I’m sure this is something we’ll learn further on in the series, but for now, it’s a case of not knowing who to trust. As readers, we’re put in the same sense of paranoia as the characters over who they can really rely on.
The ending was fast-paced and exciting to read. I hope that the next instalment in the series will show more of a reaction to the events that happened at the end of the story, because it all happened so fast!
Overall, this is a great start to what I think will be a fantastic series. I’m looking forward to reading what lies ahead for the characters, and what it really means to have the Mark.
There’s a wonderful mixture of action, adventure, mystery, and a hint of romance in this exciting first instalment of the Five Corners series.
For starters, I’m extremely thankful that Cathi had a page at the start of the book that included the proper pronunciation of the names and words included in the story. Without that page, I really would have struggled to pronounce half of them! If more authors had a page like that at the start, I’d be a very happy reader.
The Marked Ones follows the story of three sisters; Mina, Thia, and Kiara. They aren’t biological sisters, but they were raised together by their foster mother, Brijit. They’re all very different girls when it comes to looks and personality, but they all have something in common: the Mark.
The Mark appears on children in the Five Corners for no apparent reason, and children with the Mark have started to show up dead. Throughout the story, the three girls strive to learn more about the Mark and what it means, and also discover that they’re not as alone as they once thought.
The story begins when Weylon, an Outlander, and his two sons; Teague and Caedmon, show up at the Inn that Brijit runs with her daughters. Kiara and Caedmon take an instant dislike to each other, whilst Teague and Thia are shocked to see that the other is real after seeing one another in their dreams.
The group are forced together after an attack leaves Mina in grave danger. With Teague and Caedmon also having the Mark, they are sent on a journey to Seremela, the home of the Elders, to be kept safe.
The unique qualities to each of the girls are part of what made the story so exciting to read. As we follow each of them, we’re getting a different story and a different personality, and it keeps us hooked from chapter to chapter.
I enjoyed the group being broken apart during their travels, it meant that we got to see each of the sisters in a different situation, and it also meant we got to see a little more of the Five Corners. I loved all of the characters, which is quite a rare thing! There’s usually one who I don’t enjoy reading about, or one who I prefer to the others, but in this story they are all as equally wonderful.
The relationship development between Kiara and Caedmon is beautifully done. They’re both just as stubborn as each other and it means that neither of them is willing to admit their true feelings, which is frustrating, but great to read. Towards the end of the story, I really wanted to bang their heads together!
I’m completely intrigued by Teague and Thia’s story. I hope we get to find out more about their previous dream meetings later on in the series. They have a lot of history together, and I want to read about it. I really liked the interactions between the two of them, and I found myself anticipating their scenes together.
Mina is a really sweet character, and I get the feeling she’ll be the calm amongst the storm in the future of the series. She seems to be the sister that is more likely to keep the peace and not lose her head in any tense situations. I was really happy with the reveal of Meldiron and I can’t wait to read more of what it means for Mina.
This is a tricky story to work out, and it’s difficult to figure out who the actual enemy is. I’m sure this is something we’ll learn further on in the series, but for now, it’s a case of not knowing who to trust. As readers, we’re put in the same sense of paranoia as the characters over who they can really rely on.
The ending was fast-paced and exciting to read. I hope that the next instalment in the series will show more of a reaction to the events that happened at the end of the story, because it all happened so fast!
Overall, this is a great start to what I think will be a fantastic series. I’m looking forward to reading what lies ahead for the characters, and what it really means to have the Mark.
April 8, 2014
Title -Five Corners: Book 1 of the Marked Ones
Author – Cathi Shaw
Pages – 294
Grade Range -7th and up
Publisher – Ink Smith Publishing
Growing up in a sleepy village untouched by distant wars and political conflicts, it was easy for Thia, Mina and Kiara to forget such horrors existed in the Five Corners. That is until the dead child is found; a child that bears the same strange birthmark that all three sisters possess. A Mark their mother had always told them was unique to the girls. Kiara’s suspicions grow as their Inn is soon overrun with outsiders from all walks of life. Strangers, soldiers and Elders who all seem to know more about what is happening than the girls do. After Mina barely survives an attack in the forest, the sisters are faced with a shattering secret their mother has kept from them for years. As danger closes in around them, the sisters are forced from their home and must put their trust in the hands of strangers. With more questions than answers, Kiara finds herself separated from everyone she loves and reliant on an Outlander who has spent too much time in army. She doesn’t trust Caedmon but she needs him if she has any hope of being reunited with her sisters and learning what the Mark might mean.
Looking for something different in the fantasy genre? Then definitely grab a copy of Five Corners by Cathi Shaw. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, but was hooked as soon as I finished the first chapter. I really liked the different story line and I was really intrigued about the mysterious mark and the deaths of others with the marks. Who were these girls – how were Thia, Mina, and Kiara tied together? The characters were great as well – loved the “tough girl” attitude of Kiara! And of course once Cademon entered the picture – you could tell those two were destined to be together. And mystery leads to more mystery – so once the story of the Outlanders at the Inn unfolds and we discover how they are tied to the girls and their adopted mother – the true adventure begins. And this adventure leads the reader to even more questions…will Kiara and Caedmon every make it out of the mountains? Where are Thia and Teague, and who are their rescuers? Is Mina safe with the Elders? Who are these three girls, really? Definitely read Five Corners to find out! I cannot wait for the sequel!
Head on over to our blog to see more!
http://blogs.ellingtonschools.org/lar...
Author – Cathi Shaw
Pages – 294
Grade Range -7th and up
Publisher – Ink Smith Publishing
Growing up in a sleepy village untouched by distant wars and political conflicts, it was easy for Thia, Mina and Kiara to forget such horrors existed in the Five Corners. That is until the dead child is found; a child that bears the same strange birthmark that all three sisters possess. A Mark their mother had always told them was unique to the girls. Kiara’s suspicions grow as their Inn is soon overrun with outsiders from all walks of life. Strangers, soldiers and Elders who all seem to know more about what is happening than the girls do. After Mina barely survives an attack in the forest, the sisters are faced with a shattering secret their mother has kept from them for years. As danger closes in around them, the sisters are forced from their home and must put their trust in the hands of strangers. With more questions than answers, Kiara finds herself separated from everyone she loves and reliant on an Outlander who has spent too much time in army. She doesn’t trust Caedmon but she needs him if she has any hope of being reunited with her sisters and learning what the Mark might mean.
Looking for something different in the fantasy genre? Then definitely grab a copy of Five Corners by Cathi Shaw. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this one, but was hooked as soon as I finished the first chapter. I really liked the different story line and I was really intrigued about the mysterious mark and the deaths of others with the marks. Who were these girls – how were Thia, Mina, and Kiara tied together? The characters were great as well – loved the “tough girl” attitude of Kiara! And of course once Cademon entered the picture – you could tell those two were destined to be together. And mystery leads to more mystery – so once the story of the Outlanders at the Inn unfolds and we discover how they are tied to the girls and their adopted mother – the true adventure begins. And this adventure leads the reader to even more questions…will Kiara and Caedmon every make it out of the mountains? Where are Thia and Teague, and who are their rescuers? Is Mina safe with the Elders? Who are these three girls, really? Definitely read Five Corners to find out! I cannot wait for the sequel!
Head on over to our blog to see more!
http://blogs.ellingtonschools.org/lar...
April 11, 2014
Five Corners, Book One of The Marked Ones, by Cathi Shaw offers a great mix of dialogue, action, mystery, suspense, and fantasy.
We meet three very different sisters linked by a mark and a prophecy. As the story progresses we get to know each sister and have the opportunity to enjoy each of their unique personalities.
The sisters were all adopted when they were babies. They are now sixteen and as different in looks as they are in personality. Thia, is quite and seems fragile. She is a healer, often has visions of the future, and has a strange connection to the stranger that shows up at the inn. Mina, is fascinated with the outside world, loves music and the forest, and longs for adventure. Kiara, is tough and has the heart of a warrior. She loves to fight and train and is a no nonsense type of girl.
The birthmark that the girls share leads to them being hunted and sent on separate paths to discover their ancestry and destiny.
I enjoyed the unique mixture of world building and adventure. For me, the story has an epic fantasy feel to it, it is surrounded by magic, battles, and journeys in which the main characters grow and discover their purpose and true nature. There is complexity to the story but not so much that it was hard to follow. I am anxious to read the next book in the series and find out what happens next in the world of Five Corners and The Marked Ones.
My Likes
The characters.
The introduction to the ancestry of some of the main characters.
They mystery of the mark.
My only negative is that I didn’t feel completely connected to the story but that could be from my own distractions and not the fault of the story teller. Overall, I think that Five Corners is a great start to an interesting fantasy adventure and I will definitely mark book 2 on my to be read calendar.
My Book Source: Book Tour Review Copy
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
We meet three very different sisters linked by a mark and a prophecy. As the story progresses we get to know each sister and have the opportunity to enjoy each of their unique personalities.
The sisters were all adopted when they were babies. They are now sixteen and as different in looks as they are in personality. Thia, is quite and seems fragile. She is a healer, often has visions of the future, and has a strange connection to the stranger that shows up at the inn. Mina, is fascinated with the outside world, loves music and the forest, and longs for adventure. Kiara, is tough and has the heart of a warrior. She loves to fight and train and is a no nonsense type of girl.
The birthmark that the girls share leads to them being hunted and sent on separate paths to discover their ancestry and destiny.
I enjoyed the unique mixture of world building and adventure. For me, the story has an epic fantasy feel to it, it is surrounded by magic, battles, and journeys in which the main characters grow and discover their purpose and true nature. There is complexity to the story but not so much that it was hard to follow. I am anxious to read the next book in the series and find out what happens next in the world of Five Corners and The Marked Ones.
My Likes
The characters.
The introduction to the ancestry of some of the main characters.
They mystery of the mark.
My only negative is that I didn’t feel completely connected to the story but that could be from my own distractions and not the fault of the story teller. Overall, I think that Five Corners is a great start to an interesting fantasy adventure and I will definitely mark book 2 on my to be read calendar.
My Book Source: Book Tour Review Copy
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised with Cathi Shaw's debut young adult novel "Five Corners," the first book in The Marked Ones series. Cathi manages to create a fantastic story with a cast of characters that the reader can't help but fall in love with. The story starts off simple enough by introducing three young women that all bear the same mysterious mark. Before long, the quiet, peaceful existence at their family run in is disrupted when a man and his two young sons, both bearing the same mysterious mark as the women, suddenly appear at their inn. The moment the young men enter the inn, none of the character's lives will ever be the same. Forced from their home, the Marked Ones set out on a journey to save not only themselves, but also others that bear the same mark as them.
Shaw does such an outstanding job of slowing building this world, reveling information only when it is needed, not simply for the sake of giving the reader information. She allows the characters to develop over the course of the book as they react to the situations around them giving them the three-dimensions that many writers are unable to accomplish. As the characters start to realize what is at stake, and understand how dire their situation is, the pacing of the story picks up. And of course, because this is a planned series, it ends at the precise moment leaving you wanting for more.
From the moment I finished the first sentence, I was hooked and had a hard time putting this book down. I can't wait until the next book comes out so I can continue this journey with these young individuals and see where this mission to discover their origins and to save their own, and many other lives will lead. A great debut novel by an author that I am hoping I will see more from.
Shaw does such an outstanding job of slowing building this world, reveling information only when it is needed, not simply for the sake of giving the reader information. She allows the characters to develop over the course of the book as they react to the situations around them giving them the three-dimensions that many writers are unable to accomplish. As the characters start to realize what is at stake, and understand how dire their situation is, the pacing of the story picks up. And of course, because this is a planned series, it ends at the precise moment leaving you wanting for more.
From the moment I finished the first sentence, I was hooked and had a hard time putting this book down. I can't wait until the next book comes out so I can continue this journey with these young individuals and see where this mission to discover their origins and to save their own, and many other lives will lead. A great debut novel by an author that I am hoping I will see more from.
May 20, 2014
Fast-paced, exciting, with lots of mystery and mostly innocent romance, this book was an easy, entertaining read. The story flows smoothly and the plot starts simply enough, but as the tale progresses and the prophecy begins to unfold, alliances become suspect and even sacred, long-held relationships can no longer be trusted.
Three young women, each baring an odd mark, are whisked away when their sleepy hamlet is threatened. One of the girls, Mina, is viciously attacked and barely hangs on to life. Mina is taken to a foreign city, while her sisters journey there via a different route for safety reasons. Their travels are wrought with danger and when they become separated it seems as though they will surely succumb to the biting cold and grievous injuries.
I was easily carried away and became immersed in the book so that I read it almost straight through. The three foster sisters are each likeable in their own ways, though Kiara seems overly confrontational and angry more often than not, especially during the first half of the book. Still, their bond to each other is strong.
For me, the slowly unwinding mystery and the evolving depth of the ancient prophecy are the aspects I personally enjoyed the most. Imaginative and at times harrowing, this is the beginning of a planned series. I am looking forward to more adventures with these characters in future books.
This book was provided to me from the author without cost in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
Three young women, each baring an odd mark, are whisked away when their sleepy hamlet is threatened. One of the girls, Mina, is viciously attacked and barely hangs on to life. Mina is taken to a foreign city, while her sisters journey there via a different route for safety reasons. Their travels are wrought with danger and when they become separated it seems as though they will surely succumb to the biting cold and grievous injuries.
I was easily carried away and became immersed in the book so that I read it almost straight through. The three foster sisters are each likeable in their own ways, though Kiara seems overly confrontational and angry more often than not, especially during the first half of the book. Still, their bond to each other is strong.
For me, the slowly unwinding mystery and the evolving depth of the ancient prophecy are the aspects I personally enjoyed the most. Imaginative and at times harrowing, this is the beginning of a planned series. I am looking forward to more adventures with these characters in future books.
This book was provided to me from the author without cost in exchange for my honest review.
Reviewed by Laurie-J
May 22, 2014
Three sisters, Thia, Mina, and Kiara who share the same strange birthmark live and work with their mother at the Inn. When Kiara learns that there are children who are being murdered who share the same strange mark, she is suspicious. Then Outsiders arrive at the Inn and the girls learn they are part of an ancient prophecy. Their world is shaken upside down and now the girls must discover the truth for themselves.
FIVE CORNERS is the first book in what promises to be an epic fantasy series. The three sisters are very different, with good reason. Thia has visions and is a healer, like their mother. Mira is a musician and loves the outdoors. Kiara is a beautiful warrior who has no time for fancy stuff. When the girls are forced to leave their home, they must each take their own path to find their destiny. I liked each of the sisters for different reasons and enjoyed learning about the history of this world. The author created an intricate and complex world with different societies all united by a prophecy. FIVE CORNERS has a little something for everyone – fantasy, mystery, action/adventure, and romance.
FIVE CORNERS is the first book in what promises to be an epic fantasy series. The three sisters are very different, with good reason. Thia has visions and is a healer, like their mother. Mira is a musician and loves the outdoors. Kiara is a beautiful warrior who has no time for fancy stuff. When the girls are forced to leave their home, they must each take their own path to find their destiny. I liked each of the sisters for different reasons and enjoyed learning about the history of this world. The author created an intricate and complex world with different societies all united by a prophecy. FIVE CORNERS has a little something for everyone – fantasy, mystery, action/adventure, and romance.
April 1, 2014
Five Corners: The Marked Ones is a really good story. I really liked that this story had a bit of a different story line. Three girls who have grown up as sisters were all adopted as babies. The three, who have believed they were the only marked ones, soon learn that they aren’t. But the other marked children are turning up dead. The three soon team up with others and go off in different directions to hopefully save their own lives and to try to figure out what’s going on.
This story is well written, it had a really good balance of action, dialogue and description. The author did a really good job of letting me see and experience the setting without giving big long descriptions, instead she wrote some and wove the rest into the dialogue and action. The characters were well done – my favorite was Kiara. She had such an attitude and always wanted to prove that she could do what any guy could do. I loved her no-crap attitude. This novel had a bit of everything – fantasy, mystery, romance, suspense – it kept my interest and need to know what was going to happen and where the story was going. I definitely recommend this book. I was given a copy as part of a book tour.
This story is well written, it had a really good balance of action, dialogue and description. The author did a really good job of letting me see and experience the setting without giving big long descriptions, instead she wrote some and wove the rest into the dialogue and action. The characters were well done – my favorite was Kiara. She had such an attitude and always wanted to prove that she could do what any guy could do. I loved her no-crap attitude. This novel had a bit of everything – fantasy, mystery, romance, suspense – it kept my interest and need to know what was going to happen and where the story was going. I definitely recommend this book. I was given a copy as part of a book tour.
June 16, 2014
I picked up this book because the author is a close family friend and she gave me a copy of her book signed for me, and I honestly didn't expect to like it as much as I did (I thought it would be alright). I really like the story and the three girls really caught my attention and I liked the writing style, going back and forth between the three girls. Quick read, and I'm excited for the rest of the series!
June 29, 2014
This review and many others can be found on my blog: literatureobsessed.blogspot.com.
September 2, 2018
In Cathi Shaw’s Five Corners, Marked children are being killed across the land. An ancient prophecy foretells the rise of the Marked Ones, and there are powerful factions that will do anything to make sure that that future doesn’t come to pass. Adopted sisters Kiara, Mina and Thia – all bearing the Mark – have lived a quiet life in the Lowlands, but they find themselves in terrible danger as the prophecy unfolds. As dark forces hunt them, the sisters embark on a perilous journey to the mystical Seremela, the land of the Elders, to seek refuge and answers. But even if they make it, there are no guarantees they’ll find what they need.
Five Corners is the first book in the Marked Ones series. I liked the premise of this book and would recommend it for younger readers. There were elements of the story that I’d like to have seen developed more though. Mystical races of beings were introduced that only lasted a chapter or two and then didn’t feature any further in the story. Likewise, I found myself wondering about the origins of the lifeforce-sucking Hunters stalking the Marked Ones. And the end felt a little rushed, with too many questions unanswered. If you read this first book, you’d best be prepared to read them all.
Five Corners is the first book in the Marked Ones series. I liked the premise of this book and would recommend it for younger readers. There were elements of the story that I’d like to have seen developed more though. Mystical races of beings were introduced that only lasted a chapter or two and then didn’t feature any further in the story. Likewise, I found myself wondering about the origins of the lifeforce-sucking Hunters stalking the Marked Ones. And the end felt a little rushed, with too many questions unanswered. If you read this first book, you’d best be prepared to read them all.
September 23, 2014
Five Corners: The Marked Ones by Cathi Shaw tells the story of three adopted sisters being raised in the outskirts of a magical world. Their adoptive mother, Brigit, has done her best to keep them safe—and removed—from any dangers of the outside world. But when three mysterious strangers arrive and threaten the normality of their world, are these girls prepared for the changes that will soon overcome their lives?
Each of the sisters, Thia, Kiara, and Mina are joined together by a mysterious mark—one that they come to find they share with their strange visitors, Teague and Caedmon—a mark that may hold greater implications for their lives than even they realize. What I really enjoyed about this story was how much mystery there is. These girls have lived a pretty sheltered existence, one that’s kept them safe from both outside influence and danger, but this all changes when the outside world finds them again. Not only that, but there’s a greater prophesy at hand—a prophesy that could mean the end of these strange, marked individuals. Though I would have liked a little more explanation about the danger throughout the entirety of the story (and not just after the middle half), I think this book does a good job of setting up subsequent novels by not giving too much away, but still doesn’t make the reader feel like they’re intentionally being left in the dark (even if they are).
Shaw’s storytelling is really at its best when she takes the time to develop the relationships between the characters, this is by far my favorite aspect of this story. Not just the development between the three sisters, but the changing dynamics between Mina and Teague, and the Kiara and Caedmon. It was really immersive and fun for me to get to know the subtleties of their individual characters through their conversations and reactions and, in some instances, to watch romance bloom naturally.
For me, there was a lot of world-building during the first half, so it took a while for the actual story to get going. I think this story would definitely benefit from a trimmer first half, but once the story gets going, it’s an easy and fun read all the way to the end. I really liked how Shaw tied the magic and prophetical elements into the story in a way that wasn’t overly hokey or unbelievable—it added to, rather than took away from the mystery of the overall plot. Though I do think there were too many secondary characters that were introduced, only to disappear from the story later, it’s not a serious gripe and it’s definitely something that can be improved with subsequent novels.
All in all, I think readers that are looking for books that are heavy on the fantasy and adventure—and a little lighter on the romance (compared to a lot of YA fiction that seems to only focus on the romance)—they will definitely be pleased with Five Corners: The Marked Ones.
Each of the sisters, Thia, Kiara, and Mina are joined together by a mysterious mark—one that they come to find they share with their strange visitors, Teague and Caedmon—a mark that may hold greater implications for their lives than even they realize. What I really enjoyed about this story was how much mystery there is. These girls have lived a pretty sheltered existence, one that’s kept them safe from both outside influence and danger, but this all changes when the outside world finds them again. Not only that, but there’s a greater prophesy at hand—a prophesy that could mean the end of these strange, marked individuals. Though I would have liked a little more explanation about the danger throughout the entirety of the story (and not just after the middle half), I think this book does a good job of setting up subsequent novels by not giving too much away, but still doesn’t make the reader feel like they’re intentionally being left in the dark (even if they are).
Shaw’s storytelling is really at its best when she takes the time to develop the relationships between the characters, this is by far my favorite aspect of this story. Not just the development between the three sisters, but the changing dynamics between Mina and Teague, and the Kiara and Caedmon. It was really immersive and fun for me to get to know the subtleties of their individual characters through their conversations and reactions and, in some instances, to watch romance bloom naturally.
For me, there was a lot of world-building during the first half, so it took a while for the actual story to get going. I think this story would definitely benefit from a trimmer first half, but once the story gets going, it’s an easy and fun read all the way to the end. I really liked how Shaw tied the magic and prophetical elements into the story in a way that wasn’t overly hokey or unbelievable—it added to, rather than took away from the mystery of the overall plot. Though I do think there were too many secondary characters that were introduced, only to disappear from the story later, it’s not a serious gripe and it’s definitely something that can be improved with subsequent novels.
All in all, I think readers that are looking for books that are heavy on the fantasy and adventure—and a little lighter on the romance (compared to a lot of YA fiction that seems to only focus on the romance)—they will definitely be pleased with Five Corners: The Marked Ones.
November 30, 2014
'Five Corners: The Marked Ones'
by Cathi Shaw
5 Fangs
I am an independent reviewer for 'Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock'. I received this book from the author and from 'Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock'. This is my honest review.
The book offers a list of characters and describes their relationship to other characters. There is also a map of Five Corners that is in the front of the book that the reader understand the lay of this world.
Cathi Shaw introduces the reader to the world of Five Corners. It is a world similar to our medieval Europe. There are no modern conveniences to had in this world but some of its people have unusual gifts. It is a rich, complex and diverse world even though most of its inhabitants are only live and travel with a day it two ride of their home.
'Finding Refuge' is adventure fantasy that is geared for teens and up in age. Adults who like fantasy will find this a refreshing fantasy where the complexity of the story comes from the characters understanding their relationship to each other and the world at large.
The book opens with the murder of a six year old child. Kiara and her mother (a healer) have been called to help prepare the little girl's body for the burial. Kiara finds out from her mother this not the first child to be murdered and their commonality is they carry a mark on their shoulder just like Kiara and her sisters. She is warned by her mother not to talk about their marks nor tell her sisters about the possible connection with the murdered children and is told to be watchful of strangers.
The sisters meet three strangers, 2 brothers and their father. The sisters have strange reactions to the three. This confuses them and tears a part their little world as they decide whether or not to trust these men.
There are surprises that twist throughout the novel. Nothing are as they seem to be as Kiara and her sisters find answers to questions about themselves and their role in the world. They find allies that help them survive and enemies that seek their deaths or worse.
It is a well written and edited. It is a full novel but it finishes with a cliff-hanger. There is a sequel.
by Cathi Shaw
5 Fangs
I am an independent reviewer for 'Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock'. I received this book from the author and from 'Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock'. This is my honest review.
The book offers a list of characters and describes their relationship to other characters. There is also a map of Five Corners that is in the front of the book that the reader understand the lay of this world.
Cathi Shaw introduces the reader to the world of Five Corners. It is a world similar to our medieval Europe. There are no modern conveniences to had in this world but some of its people have unusual gifts. It is a rich, complex and diverse world even though most of its inhabitants are only live and travel with a day it two ride of their home.
'Finding Refuge' is adventure fantasy that is geared for teens and up in age. Adults who like fantasy will find this a refreshing fantasy where the complexity of the story comes from the characters understanding their relationship to each other and the world at large.
The book opens with the murder of a six year old child. Kiara and her mother (a healer) have been called to help prepare the little girl's body for the burial. Kiara finds out from her mother this not the first child to be murdered and their commonality is they carry a mark on their shoulder just like Kiara and her sisters. She is warned by her mother not to talk about their marks nor tell her sisters about the possible connection with the murdered children and is told to be watchful of strangers.
The sisters meet three strangers, 2 brothers and their father. The sisters have strange reactions to the three. This confuses them and tears a part their little world as they decide whether or not to trust these men.
There are surprises that twist throughout the novel. Nothing are as they seem to be as Kiara and her sisters find answers to questions about themselves and their role in the world. They find allies that help them survive and enemies that seek their deaths or worse.
It is a well written and edited. It is a full novel but it finishes with a cliff-hanger. There is a sequel.
November 5, 2014
I have to admit that I am not a huge fan of fantasy books, so when I started reading Five Corners I was instantly wary of certain features I'm usually put off by with this genre.
I think most books suffer from over-length, and especially fantasy books tend to be overly large tomes. They often get lost in details without stirring from the spot, making me feel like reading in slow motion or with the handbrake on. Fortunately, this was not the case with Five Corners, which is written in a clear, distinct and no-frills style. It was easy to follow the action without being overwhelmed and detracted by boring irrelevances. Instead of imposing a prefabricated completed picture on the reader, it leaves room for the reader's imagination to create its own version of the story.
Another feature I despise in fantasy books is the invention of unpronounceable names for people and places, which hinder the reading flow each time the reader stumbles upon one of them. So when I read the first page, which lists the names of the main characters with their correct pronunciation, I was a bit discouraged. However, it was not as bad as I suspected: several names had an easy short form and they were not so fantastic as to be ridiculous.
The story itself was elaborately written and I appreciated its clever composition. While in the beginning all three sisters where together, the main part of the book splits into three different story lines where the girls need to travel to a common destination but each on a different route. Add to that their unique characters and talents, and you get three fascinating adventures out of one book.
The focus was on the exploration of the girl's talents and their origin, and each chapter had a different angle: Kiara's chapters meant action and also humor, while Tia's parts revolved around spiritual powers and Mina is the reasonable one.
Five Corners: The Marked Ones is a very promising first part in a series and definitely recommended.
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review)
I think most books suffer from over-length, and especially fantasy books tend to be overly large tomes. They often get lost in details without stirring from the spot, making me feel like reading in slow motion or with the handbrake on. Fortunately, this was not the case with Five Corners, which is written in a clear, distinct and no-frills style. It was easy to follow the action without being overwhelmed and detracted by boring irrelevances. Instead of imposing a prefabricated completed picture on the reader, it leaves room for the reader's imagination to create its own version of the story.
Another feature I despise in fantasy books is the invention of unpronounceable names for people and places, which hinder the reading flow each time the reader stumbles upon one of them. So when I read the first page, which lists the names of the main characters with their correct pronunciation, I was a bit discouraged. However, it was not as bad as I suspected: several names had an easy short form and they were not so fantastic as to be ridiculous.
The story itself was elaborately written and I appreciated its clever composition. While in the beginning all three sisters where together, the main part of the book splits into three different story lines where the girls need to travel to a common destination but each on a different route. Add to that their unique characters and talents, and you get three fascinating adventures out of one book.
The focus was on the exploration of the girl's talents and their origin, and each chapter had a different angle: Kiara's chapters meant action and also humor, while Tia's parts revolved around spiritual powers and Mina is the reasonable one.
Five Corners: The Marked Ones is a very promising first part in a series and definitely recommended.
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review)
August 26, 2014
Five Corners: Book 1 of the Marked Ones by Cathi Shaw is an epic science fiction/fantasy story geared toward young adults. But this story is crafted to where it is suitable for those who are younger to adult. When the story begins, we meet Brijit, a healer and proprietress of an inn, and one of her daughters, Kiara. We are immersed immediately in what is obviously a murder, but there is much more to it. Five Corners progresses quickly as we meet the other sisters, and a host of other characters and species (spoiler alert) as four teens make their way across the land to (hopefully) change the world for the better. But that, of course, doesn’t happen in Book 1. Shaw does an excellent job of setting the scene, introducing the characters (and sides) all of whom are unique and draw us into their lives and relationships. So much so, that you will anticipate Book 2.
The general audience for this book are fantasy lovers and YA, but if you can overlook their ages, it’s easy to see how this could easily be adults. Particularly since they were forced to grow up so early. Overall, this has all the elements for an epic tale and it was definitely an enjoyable read. Downside, a copy of this story was gifted to me in PDF, so I don’t know if this is the final version. The version I read was in serious need of a final line edit as there were numerous issues that were distracting and detracted from the story’s flow.
The general audience for this book are fantasy lovers and YA, but if you can overlook their ages, it’s easy to see how this could easily be adults. Particularly since they were forced to grow up so early. Overall, this has all the elements for an epic tale and it was definitely an enjoyable read. Downside, a copy of this story was gifted to me in PDF, so I don’t know if this is the final version. The version I read was in serious need of a final line edit as there were numerous issues that were distracting and detracted from the story’s flow.
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