Eighteen-year-old Faith Stryker is prepared to leap out into the unknown world beyond her home shores of New Zealand to experience life. Only she never expected to encounter Magio, a planet with two warring countries, where its people reach adulthood at eighteen by coming into their strength and prophetic abilities. Only after Faith discovers she’s a Halfling—thanks to her warrior father she’s never met—does her own skill of forethought develop.
Peacio’s Prince Davio Loveria is sent to the young Faith Stryker by his grandfather, but not all goes as planned. Davio discovers Faith isn’t just a Halfling, she’s also his soul-bound mate—an intense relationship he cannot, nor will not, give up.
With two wars now waging…one of land and the other of the heart…can the young couple find their place in the world?
PRINCESSES OF MYTH SERIES Protector, #1 Warrior, #2 Enchanter, #3 Healer, #4 Hunter, #2.5 (Short Story 12,000 words)
Joanne Wadsworth is a NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling Author who adores getting lost in the world of romance, no matter what era in time that might be. Hot alpha Highlanders hound her, demanding their stories are told and she’s devoted to ensuring they meet their match, whether that be with a feisty lass from the present or far in the past.
Living on a tiny island at the bottom of the world, she calls New Zealand home. Big-dreamer, hoarder of chocolate, and addicted to juicy watermelons since the age of five, she chases after her four energetic children and has her own hunky hubby on the side.
So come and join in all the fun, because this kiwi girl promises to give you her “Hot-Highlander” oath, to bring you a heart-pounding, sexy adventure from the moment you turn the first page. This is where romance meets fantasy and adventure…
This was a very well written novel. Wadsworth writes the way that individuals in high school tend to speak. Being that the novel is written in the first person, the descriptions and narratives follow the same format. The novel is full of slang and short forms, but it flows naturally. Nothing is ever forces, nor is it shortened to the point that it is no longer comprehensible. That said, the adults in the novel also spoke like adults. They weren’t bound to the slang used by the rest of the characters. It was very refreshing.
The characters themselves also exhibit many traits common to high school students. They have the same concerns and difficulties that many teens do when preparing for university or college. There are added difficulties for these individuals being that they are placed in the middle of a situation where 3 very different cultures merge. They need to learn to (or at least attempt to learn to) accept and embrace these differences. These cultural clashes lead to some quite interesting and very comical moments throughout the story. This all makes the characters seem very real, at least until the supernatural aspects come into play.
Wadsworth also combines the concept of bonded mate pairs with the concept for soul mates for a matching that is very intense. This is played against a very Romeo & Juliet type romance between the young royals of two warring supernatural nations. The best part of this relationship? They fight for their relationship. They do not allow their nations to dictate whether or not they can be together. The main female stands by her family while the main male wants to protect his nation. They attempt to compromise day by day in order to stay together.
I was very impressed throughout the story as to the number of twists and turns in the story and how they always did flow together. No matter what happened, or how unexpected it was, the reader never ends up being confused. There is a natural progression throughout allowing for an enjoyable read that you do not have to overanalyze at every turn. By the end of the novel I was left wanting more but also with a feeling of completion.
First off, I want to say that I wanted to really like this book because it's my first ARR copy. I wasn't consciously looking for one, but I got the opportunity because of We <3 YA Books which is a really great community. When I read the blurb, I immediately knew that this was the kind of story that I wanted to immerse myself in. I expected New Zealand culture/scenery, Magio world-building in the context of war, daddy issues, a romance with depth. I got some of those, but not in the degree that would've left me enamoured with the story.
What I didn't like: The absence of New Zealand culture/scenery. My Creative Writing teachers always tell me, setting matters. Where the story takes place defines what sort of people there are, what they're language is, what sort of activities the character can do, or lifestyles people have. I think the author could've really taken advantage of the fact that Faith was a Kiwi. I wanted to feel, taste, smell(?) that beach or that mountain where some scenes occur. But as it happens, this story could've been set in the U.S. and it wouldn't have made any big difference.
Violation of the Show Don't Tell rule. Now, I admit that this isn't always applicable, that sometimes it's necessary to tell more rather than show. But I really felt overwhelmed by how the details about Faith's abilities and the world of Magio unfolded. The first chapter was one big info dump, and maybe I--the reader-- am supposed to feel as overwhelmed as Faith but the info dumping continues in other parts, with Belle (the empath friend), Davio (the mate), and-- I hesitate for fear of spoiling-- the dad. The world building wasn't very impressive. But apart from that, there were also times when I just really wanted examples. Davio says his grandfather, King of Pecacio ruled with "precision"--exactly how? Donaldo, King of Dralion, why exactly was he the major antagonist here? The bloodfued between the families didn't seem all that destructive. They were at war, yes, but it was more like a cold war. Both of them not actively aggressive towards the other, which led me to ask how deep exactly is the hate between them? What instances made one hate the other so deeply? The spying and the kidnapping wasn't enough for me. It had to have been something...more.
Two dimensional minor characters. This is a symptom of violating the Show Don't Tell rule. The minor characters felt like they were just there to advance the plot. Silas, the cousin, was the only person who felt like there was more to him than The Cousin. I understand that he will be the hero in the next installment, so this is a good sign.
The Romance. Okay, I confess that I liked the tension of Faith and Davio being soul-bound. It was entertaining to read. They wanted each other, emotionally and physically, without really knowing why. At first, Faith was weirded out by it and was resistant. I liked that. And then they sort of stopped resisting and became a couple, albeit they were strangers. I liked that too because Davio then keeps giving statements like "I hunger for her" and "it's painful to be apart" which is kind of (really) sexy. But what I really wanted was some sort of reflection on whether their feelings toward each other were genuine and not just because they were soul-bound. How much was destiny and how much was free will? Would they still click as a pair if they weren't soul-bound? I'm not sure. And that's detrimental to the story because it's first and foremost a romance more than anything else.
What I liked: Pace. Boy, it was fast. Because of that, I wasn't bored with the story even though I had reservations about the narrative. Every chapter encouraged me to see what happens next. This may be credited to Faith. She's a go-getter, that one. At times I found her annoying because she kept on insisting to meet her father despite the danger she's in, but her stubborness kept the story moving. And I'd rather have that kind of heroine than one who is passive and just simply reacts to her environment.
Powers. I mentioned earlier that I didn't like the world-building. I want to clarify that. I thought the execution needed more technique, but the world itself is intriguing. Their powers of forethought, telepathy, super speed, strength, mind-merge, soul-bound stuff, was a fascinating concept. It was a unique world. Like, I totally want a telepathic line to my best friend. It'd save so much time and money. The Rising, in particular, was very interesting. When kids of Magio turn 18, they develop powers. The Rising is the time after their 18th, like a month or so after, when their powers reach maturity. This drives them to be excessively active. Watching Faith go through that was really funny.
Davio. He's the Alpha male embodied, used to bossing people around, and as an outspoken, independent woman, I shouldn't like him but I do. While at times he can be a douche, Faith's stubborness mellowed him out so I didn't feel hateful towards him. She was, thankfully, very aware that he could be bossy and she held her ground throughout, even when it could have cost her life. He's also very expressive about his feelings even though Faith isn't and that was endearing to read. He's loyal to his family and is conflicted about his allegiance to his soul-bound, but he eventually chooses to stick with Faith (although, I still don't understand why they didn't form their own telepathic link even after the big ending). Now, as a character, I noticed how his language is always so formal and that's how I distinguished him from other characters. In that respect, he was the most nuanced voice for me, well, apart from Faith of course. So, as a male protagonist and love interest, I thought Davio was a strong character.
Mom and Dad. I don't want to spoil anything, but Faith's parents were very interesting even though they appeared in the periphery of the story. I found myself curious as to what happened 18 years ago. What sort of relationship did they have, given that the dad lied about his heritage to her? How did neither of them noticed that she looked to young for her age? And now that they've reconciled, what sort of wooing did the dad do? When Faith tried to use her power of forethought to see her parents and it was a blur, I grinned knowingly even before I read the part that explained why that happened.
All in all, there were parts I liked and disliked, but there was more of the latter.
Angsty and passionate, Joanne Wadsworth's Protector is a fabulous debut that will delight YA fantasy fans.
Not only are Faith and Davio from different planets, but their heritages mark them as enemies. But they are soul mates, and now that they've discovered each other, they can't turn their backs on what they could have. Despite opposition from all angles, Earth halfling Faith and Magio's Prince Davio are determined to be together, but for Faith, "being together" means something differnt than it does for the possessive Davio.
Throughout Protector Joanne Wadsworth does a great job of developing character and keeping the tension between Faith and Davio high. Her worldbuilding is packed with magic and fun, and her settings, from the beaches and mountains of New Zealand to the tumultuous oceans and towering cliffs of Magio, are breathtaking.
I'll be looking for more from Joanne Wadsworth, for sure.
This was a wonderful book. I wish I had read it quicker than I did. I received an eCopy to read and review from http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/1... . -------------- People that read alot of fantasy will complain that there was not much world-building in this book, but that does not bother me. This book focused on Faith's life--her past, her future, her friends, and her family. I quite liked that it seemed to focus mainly on family and romance, where Faith is mated to Prince Davio, who is a sworn enemy of her father, Prince Alexo. Faith is originally a normal Earthling female, who has unearthly powers as she turns 18. Her friend, Belle, swears she is from Peacio, a far off planet--but, Faith never listens. As her powers become more powerful, and she meets her mate, she realizes it is all true. She also gets to meet her father. And, her loyalty is constantly tested. Will she choose her mate or her father? Can she have both? ----------------- What pleases me most is that the author promises she has written 4 books in the Magio-Earth series. While this genre of books is quite out of my comfort zone, this one grew on me, and I'd love to read the other 3 books as well.
The Protector was a really great read!! Joanne Wadsworth bring us a fast paced book full of Likeable characters, action, and romance!! where can you go wrong with that!!
I loved the characters all of them!! Faith was great.. I loved how she made a stand on how she felt and stayed with it! and Davio.. a great hunk that loved and loved hard! I did get mad at him a few times but he always won me back over! The story line was amazing.. I enjoyed how Faith was pulled between both family's! I would like to have seen a little more of Davio's family! but hopefully there will be another book that can give me all I crave to know!!
All in all Great read and would so recommend it to anyone!! Fantastic job on bring us this world!! Joanne Wadsworth looking forward to reading more about Faith and Davio!
I was offered to read this book from the Author in an ARR, I was glad i was one of the ones that signed up in time. I normally love books that take place on other planets or with people that have abilities, but not like Witchcraft. This book did not disappoint it was amazingly unique in so many ways. I loved it, i couldn't put it down. There is not one boring part in this book. I loved all the characters, especially Faith and Davio. I found it nice that the setting of the book takes place in New Zealand, and on another planet. I was iffy at first when her dad entered the picture but then i started to like him, but towards the end i don't know how much i like him. I cant wait to read the next book to find out what happens and will the war ever end? The author did a great job in introducing the characters and having them be relate-able and well liked. She was able to get me to connect with the characters where i cared what happened to them and wanted to see them happy. This book was refreshing and a great read. Look forward to more from this author.
I would recommend this book for anyone in there teens or older. I plan on telling my friends about it.
Protector is the first installment in the Magio-Earth series by Joanne Wadsworth. Protector revolves around a girl named Faith, who meets a boy named Davio and is immediately attracted to him. Faith quickly finds out that the two of them are actually bonded and are mates for life. This revelation (in addition to her discovery that she's a Halfling) brings lots of complications to Faith's life, and is the beginning of any unexpected journey for her.
The relationship between Davio and Faith is one of the most, I'm going to say bipolar, relationships I've ever read about. One minute these two are arguing to the point where you honestly think they might kill each other, and then the next they're kissing each other like the most loving couple in the world. I have to admit that while reading, I was a little skeptical as to whether or not I liked the way the relationship between the two of them worked, but I have grown to absolutely love it. Both of their characters are really stubborn, making for very intense loving/fighting scenes, as well as a relationship that is almost impossible to predict. Their moments of hate and love come in unpredictable waves that keep you on the edge of you seat. I really liked the fact that as the book went on, we see how the two of them are working to compromise with one another while still making sure their individual voices are heard. The end of the novel left me hopeful that book two might involve less fighting and more steaminess.....emphasis on the might....like I said, these two are unpredictable ;) !
I have to admit that Faith's character (aside from her total acceptance to both being a Halfling and bonded to Davio), was probably one of the most realistic characters I've read about in a while. For one, she doesn't let Davio walk all over her just because he's a prince and her bond-mate. She stands her ground even if that means going against his wishes. In addition, when her father comes back into the picture, she actually puts being a family once again (herself, her dad and her mother) almost as an equal (sometimes higher) priority than being with Davio 24/7 is. Although this at times was really frustrating (because we can see Davio's pain from her missing presence), it's the most realistic reaction you would expect. After all, Davio has only been in her life for a short amount of time, whereas her desire for a complete family has been something that has existed her whole entire life.
I found the feud between Peacio and Dralion really cool to read about as well. In addition to being a huge obstacle in Davio and Faith's relationship, it also gave the book a Romeo and Juliet feel in regards to the rivalry between the Montagues and the Capulets. I'm curious to see if Faith and Davio's bond will mend the two "worlds' " feud or cause a huge war as the series progresses!
Overall, Protector was a fast-paced, unpredictable read that had me hooked until the very end! I found myself really sad once I reached the end because I realized I had to wait to read book two....and I don't like waiting!
I received this from the author and was really intrigued by the synopsis. I love when the real world collides with a magical/fantastical one. Our main character is a girl living in New Zealand, attending classes with her best friends. However, Faith (our main character) can communicate with her friend Belle, telepathically. Her best friend, Silvie, whom she's grown up with, is aware the two can communicate like that and is completely comfortable with that knowledge. (Which I thought to be a bit strange.)
I think my biggest issue with this book was the way the world building was handled. It felt like we were introduced to these characters right away and they were completely comfortable with the fact that there is another planet called Magio. Faith acts like she doesn't believe in any of this until a new student shows up, who happens to be the prince of Peacio (one of the ruling lands in Magio), Davio. It just did not seem very believable to me. One minute Faith is in denial saying there's no such place and then the next she's like 'Ok, I guess this is real after all'. There is quite a bit of info-dumping as well in this book and I am not a fan of that. I would have rather been given the information more gradually, and not so much via the characters and dialogue. I would have preferred to be shown a lot of what the characters told me. The dialogue was also a bit strange- it was a bit more mature and at times archaic for how 18 year olds would speak.
I found Faith a bit hard to relate to as well. She did a lot of flip-flopping with her emotions. I understand the back and forth with Davio (though it did annoy me). They fell into a bit of a pattern: fight, make up, fight, make up, fight some more. It really made it difficult to believe in them as a soul-bound couple. Even when they weren't fighting, it just wasn't quite believable that they were in love with one another. Faith also is back and forth with her friends and her family, which really made me doubt a lot of her choices and genuineness.
My favorite character was Silas, Davio's cousin. He is introduced a bit later in the book and I like that he keeps Faith on her toes. He is bound to protect his Prince from outside threats and himself. I'm glad to see that the next book in the series will focus on him.
I really liked the idea of the world of Magio and that there were two kingdoms at war with one another- Dralion and Peacio. This ends up playing a vital role in the book and again, I wish we were shown more of these two places to explain their significance.
Overall, the plot was intriguing, but the story lacked the necessary execution to make it what I would have liked.
*Received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review*
Life is changing fast for Faith Stryker. She's just turned 18 and has learned some news that she's not quite believing just yet - she's a Halfling. She's never known her father, since he left her and her mother just a day after Faith's birth. Now, her new friend Belle is telling Faith that her father is from the planet Magio, making her a Halfling - and her powers are beginning to take shape. Faith finds all of this just too far-fetched to believe, until she meets Davio, the prince of Peacio, one of Magio's two countries. Their connection turns out to be something neither of them expect - or, ultimately, know what to do about. When Faith is attacked by a warrior from Magio's other country, all bets are off -- especially when Faith, Belle, Davio and the others find out just who it was who attacked Faith.
I was feeling a little like Faith as I started reading "Protector." It seemed like I, as the reader, had been thrust right into the middle of something that needed a little more set-up. I was fairly skeptical at first, and found myself snorting at the names - Peacio, Magio, Davio - everything just seemed a little corny. But what I found really interesting was how, as the story unfolded, my own level of belief and connection intensified along with Faith's. By the end of the story, I was fully invested and I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
The writing is, in places, a little choppy; a little awkward. I wanted more romance between Faith and Davio but, it's rare when I find a book that I don't say that about! (What can I say? I love romance!) My final criticism is that the science fiction aspects Wadsworth describes throughout the story seemed overwhelming sometimes. There was a lot to take in and I, like Faith in many scenes, felt lost and in over my head. However, in that regard, I think she does an excellent job of immersing the reader in the POV of the narrator.
Overall, 3.5/5 stars. I'm eager for the next book!
This is a vibrant, compelling story with an engaging cast of teen characters. The leads, Prince Davio of the planet Magio and Faith Stryker, an 18 year-old New Zealand high school student are wonderful together. As ‘bonded’ soul mates, their relationship is wholly unique, one that continually faces new challenges and hurdles as the story progresses—especially as the reader learns more about Faith.
I was enthralled by the amount of world-building the author put into this story. There is also an entire cast of secondary characters, each compelling in their own right that I expect to see more of in the coming books.
The heart of the story is Faith and Davio, but there is so much more going on in this series, I can’t wait to see how the various plot lines and characters intersect. I’m eagerly looking forward to book two and highly recommend PROTECTOR as an enchanting YA read which adults will also love.
Protector by Joanne Wadsworth is a fabulously fun read. I read through the night so I could finish :D
Faith is a likable character and as the story progresses, the difficult choices she made just broke my heart. Dario is a handsome, drool-worthy prince (pain in the arse) and is lovable (eventually). I pulled for a HEA with these two, and Wadsworth did not disappoint!
Protector is my favorite type of love story: two people meant to be together and the hard journey they face along their way. Many surprises and stakes are thrown into this pot of already boiling water, keeping you glued to each turn of the page. I can’t wait to read the next story, Warrior (Magio-Earth, #2).
I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't stop turning the pages. It was like chocolate. Once I started, I couldn't stop. I can't wait for book 2 in the series.
*I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
At first glance, Protector is a sci-fi novel. But it also has fantastical elements because the people of Magio (a planet like Earth) have powers and strength skills. Not all of them do, though. And it's very rare for an Earthling to have the skills that our main character, Faith, has. And it's even rarer that she should have the strength skills of forethought and forewarning when no one outside of the royal families of the two feuding countries do. It's a mystery that puts Faith in danger. And it's a mystery that everyone wants to unravel, especially the Loveria family of Peacio.
At the start of the novel, we find that Faith knows all about Magio. But she has a hard time believing anything that Belle, an empath, is telling her. She has to be crazy, right? And this telepathic link between the two of them is just her imagination? But, without a doubt, Magio is real. And so is the idea that she has some powerful skills.
I thought Faith was a strong character, one who understood that the her life wasn't all black and white. A girl who gave her father a second chance. A girl who stuck to her morals and what she thought was right even when the man she was falling in love with didn't believe her. She didn't know anything about Dralion (the country of Peacio's enemy) or its ruthless ruler, yet she went because she knew her father deserved this chance to make things right with her mom and her. She's stubborn, has a temper, but ultimately, she will do whatever she can for the people she loves. That selflessness makes her an awesome heroine.
When she meets Davio, the Prince of Peacio, she finds out he's her soul mate, a bond that given time to strengthen, would cause problems for both of them. She's a Halfing, and her father is a Warrior of Dralion, Peacio's sworn enemy. But they both don't count on the strength of that soul-bond, or the fact that she needs his protection after learning some curious secrets about herself and her family's genes.
I love the idea of these soul-bonds! It's so romantic! And it's kind of awesome that the women hold the power. I didn't think of it that way until later on, but they really do. Men are pretty much helpless when it comes to their mates. If they try and break the bond, it hurts them. The woman they mate with is always on their minds, and the need to protect her is so great they'll do anything for her. They become quite miserable without their bond with the woman, and if they try to have a relationship with another, it's hard for them. For the women, too. But giving up the soul-bond and releasing each other is rarely done. But then again, a soul-bond between two sworn enemies never happens. It's just one of many obstacles that Davio and Faith must face.
And oh, Davio is pretty swoon-worthy. I mean, there's a fine line between being overprotective and being controlling, and I didn't think he ever crossed it. His need to keep Faith safe, and his growing feelings for her made him feel the need to suffocate her with protectors and orders. And he's a Prince, so ordering people around is what he does. But Faith is the perfect match for this stubborn, take-charge man. They've both never met anyone so infuriating, or so absolutely perfect for them.
When I first read that they were mates I thought, oh God, it's going to turn into insta-love, isn't it? I detest insta-love! But.... this relationship between Davio and Faith never felt like insta-love. Sure, the story that was told was only a few weeks' time. But they didn't just automatically say I love you. Let's get married and live in Peacio for the rest of our 120 years. In fact, in the beginning, neither of them want this bond between them. Davio knows that she's only a Halfing, and Faith still doesn't wholly believe in this planet called Magio. It isn't until she's attacked by a warrior that Davio and his protectors return to keep her safe, and that she finally realizes the truth that's been clawing at her mind for the last week since Belle came to Earth. And the prince needs to find out what where she got her powers from, and why he's mated to an Earthling, because that never happens. Their relationship slowly developed from distrust and dislike to love. I'm still curious, though, why they never formed a telepathic link like they should have...
Anyway, her father's return and his heritage creates obstacles for their relationship. As does the blood boiling rage Faith feels whenever she and Davio are within sight of each other and are not touching. Her ties to her father are as strong as her soul-bond with the prince. And when her father wants to reunite his family, she jumps at the chance. But her mom ultimately pays the price. That kind of selflessness for her daughter's safety was amazing. Though, I think she will come to terms with her new role.
Faith is still trying to figure out her strength skills and where they come from, though that is still undetermined. And it's a shocking revelation that almost kills her. And at the end of the book, there are still loads of questions unanswered, and the two lovebirds are not in the clear yet. For they may have found love, but the feud between their families is ageless and strong, solidly made of concrete.
***
I loved the world of Magio, and the people. The two main characters, along with their friends, protectors, and families, are a great cast of Magiolings. I loved seeing the different relationships built between them, and loved seeing how they protect each other even when they're fighting. I loved the idea of soul-bonds. I'm a hopeless romantic, so it absolutely made me swoon. <3
I liked the distinction of Earth and Magio, the differences and comparisons. Magio is a few centuries behind and doesn't rely on technology, yet most Magiolings who come from Peacio can blend in on Earth as naturally as Faith. The distinction was also in the way Davio and his protectors spoke compared to how Faith and her friend, Silvie, did. Although, at times, Faith's character spoke as formally as they did, even though she's clearly lived on Earth her whole life.
This was actually a pretty quick read for me (well, compared to ones that take me days). I was hooked from the beginning, and I was very interested to see how everything came together. Some of it was a little predictable, and at times, Magio and its ways were very hard to understand. But I liked this new world. And its people. :)
***
I was wondering if Warrior (Magio-Earth, #2) would continue with Faith and Davio's story, but I see now that it doesn't. Instead it involves two other characters, one of whom we already know from this book. But I hope that we still see more of all of these characters, and that more questions will be answered. And I'd love to see the countries of Peacio and Dralion unite. :)
As Promised..."this is where romance meets fantasy and adventure"
Well now you have done it Ms.Wadsworth! Now I have to read this whole series! You promised no cliffhangers and that each novel is stand alone. Yet there is so much left to figure out about this other world and the war that has raged for centuries! This is what every author and devoted reader dream about. A book so enthralling that you cry when it ends. A book that hooks you from page 1 and has you grabbing book 2 before you even finish book 1. I can't leave Dralian and Peacio behind. I must see where this Romeo and Juliet relationship goes and if this world will ever know peace. So I'm hooked! And as soon as I can clear space on my groaning "To be read" shelves, I will be adding the rest of this series. This is a YA fantasy romance but it appeals to this 60 something woman, and I have already hooked my almost 30 daughter on to it. So don't let the fact that you are long past the YA age keep you from this book. Age is just a number after all. For lovers of fantasy and romance you are only as old as your imagination allows you to be. A kind of favor a world where you never age past 18 but grow in strength and abilities every day!
When a young girl discovers she is from another planet she is not thrilled. And when she discovers she is mated to a prince she can't stand,well things just can't get worse right? Wrong. Her newfound father is the prince of her mate, Davio's, country and they have been at war for hundreds of years. Should she trust her mate whom she can't live without or her father, who knocked her out with a club upon their first meeting?
This is a wonderful premise for a story but the plot itself leaves much to be desired. The main character, Faith, has every right to be skeptical but her attitude is obnoxious, her decisions make no sense and it seems as though she goes from being one person at the beginning of the novel to being a completely different person almost immediately. Where the author intends her to be struggling internally, all I can see is a spoiled and stubborn girl who refuses to look at the situation from anyone else's point of view.
Of course, the novel ends in a cliffhanger but when I looked at the sequel, it begins with another character's story. This left me with a lot of questions but not in the good way.
Imagine that there are other worlds connected to earth that we cannot see.
When a teenager finds out that everything she knew about her family, and where she came from, is literally out of this world. She has no idea what she’s is going to do. After Faith meets a stranger, who tells her he is her soul mate, and then rejects her she’s definitely done with the whole scenario. Not only is he insulting, cruel and dominating, he’s the prince of his world. The characters take a little while to gel together, but by the end of the book it flows much better. The cruel way that she is treated by her her “soulmate,” and some of the other characters, was hard to read at times. Especially since her, and her mother are basically treated like prisoners at times. There are a lot of descriptions about how the powers feel to Faith, as they manifest, and certain areas they visit such as the beach head, her room, her fathers apartment, etc…..but other places, and some minor characters are all left to your imagination.
This was a easy, quick read. I did enjoy it, but I also had few problems with it.
Story was really interesting, the premise at least, but I missed a bit more world building. I want to know more about the world described. Because it wasn't a whole lot of explaining, it was at times a bit hard to believe, especially the romance part. I do like to read about mean to be, destined love, however this was so quick, for zero to 100 in 2 seconds. I wanted to see more about both characters, know them a bit more, before all of that. And because of that it was kind of hard to connect or care about any of them. Especially Faith, she is really hard to like. I mean, she makes some stupid decisions and doesn't know what is she doing.
I would really love if she had to work more for her powers, I love to see the struggle. Then it fells like it was earned not just given.
It is an easy read, perfect for the beach. :) I has the potential to be an amazing story, if only there was... more. More time to know the characters, more about the world, more about the people.
Young adult. Hell! Warrior in training and bond mate to prince
Faith thought she was coming unglued. New strange things were happening to her..she was talking to her friend with her mind and then she meets this strange boy. Wow she can’t stand him but she loves him, and he is a prince at war. Then she finds out her missing father is his worse enemy and it only gets worse or better. Things keep happening to her and you can’t put book down till done and you go no- I want more right now
This was a fun book to read. I enjoyed the characters and the storyline. The only problem I had with it is it left several unanswered questions so the story felt incomplete. It's a sweet love story about soul mates who find each other, but there's lots more to the story. One thing I've noticed about Joanne Wadsworth's writings is that she not only tells the tale of lovers, but of familial love and friendship.
I love all the characters except Davio, the love interest. He's a controlling piece of shit. Faith doesn't have any of it and stands up to him time and time again, which makes me love her more, but Davio is just horrible and brainwashed by hatred. I love how the mated bond is described in the book, though. Because even though it affects both Fatih and Davio, it doesn't erase their sanity. Despite being mated they still need to fall in love and trust one another and I love that.
Has potential but full of grammar errors and inconsistencies. Needs a thorough edit. Also, the descriptions of the characters' clothes battled on asinine. Why do we care? And the fighting and lovey-dovey back and forth is beyond annoying.
For my clean readers: language-no f-bomb, but several other words. Violence-fighting, attempted kidnapping, etc. Romance-kissing, so many descriptions of he's so yummy, you want to barf.
1. Faith's easy acceptance of her soul bond. 2. Davio's controlling nature. It was annoying. 3. Sappyness galore.
Also, this book is a standalone in a series. The next one is about Silas and Hope (Faith's sister who she doesn't know about). Not sure if I want to get into that. Eh. 3 stars.
Overall I enjoyed the story. A couple things bugged me about how things happened, like how fast the bond takes place. And how Davios, can't believe Faith has a rare skill that can kill her and was of so willing to sacrifice his mates trust to capture her father. Kind of a butt head, I hope the story continues as the other books are about different characters
Didn't care for Faith childish behavior. The plot did not end really. The part at the end of manipulating her mate with death was farfetched. Corny and slow for sure. Couldn't finish...just flipped to the end. Can't continue with this series. Don't care for unresolved ending for sure.