***This rating is tentative because I beta read this. Until I read the final version, this is my rating.
One of the coolest things about this series is the writing style. It doesn't matter what time period (it's a time travel-based story with a twist) it reads like the period it's set in and that feeling transports you as readily as if you had the ability to time travel yourself.
This edition of Gabrielle's journey deals with slavery and the horrific circumstances they suffered at the hands of racist plantation owners. Some of the stories are heartbreaking and will seriously leave you feeling chilled to the bone. Others are full of hope, perseverance, and love. Morrigan's words are moving-full of heart and raw honesty, of an unwavering and pure need to help those who have been persecuted, downtrodden, and tortured by their owners. There are beautiful words and great insight into the good that comes out of humanity in the face of true evil.
Gabrielle is different in this story. In some ways, she's so young and so tired, but who can blame her? She's suffered so much at the hands of an enemy she didn't exactly choose. All of her journeys are more traumatic than adventurous, but through them, she uncovers great truths about herself and she grows into a more compassionate and thoughtful person. Gabrielle is a heroine. She's imperfect. She gets anxiety, she's scared, she's overwhelmed, and yes, her emotions drag her through the mud, but this makes her so much more relatable.
There are a few twists that I didn't see coming and I was pleasantly surprised with the results.
The violence. OMG this is intense. There are so many epic fight scenes and the adrenaline is off the charts. If you're looking for a combination of heart, adventure, and action, definitely check this series out. Plus, the history!
Pacing was occasionally a little slow, but picked up as the story progressed.