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Kingdom of Ruins
In the Lands Within, history does not rest. Each archaeological layer communicates with the living generation, choosing its friends and enemies—and its kings. But an alliance has been struck no one could have anticipated, and an ancient evil is soaking into the soil. History is being erased, purchased and re-written at a terrible price. And a kingdom that shouldn’t have been forgotten is fading from memory.
In the Lands Without, archaeologist Lori Brickland has found a pottery shard with a heartbeat. The pulse might be a trick of the mind, or it might be the first sign of life in a world of ruin. An exiled traveler will say she shouldn’t search for the truth, a calculating ruler will say she’s the one he’s looking for. And the kingdom? The kingdom will need her before the end. It’s time to accept what she’s always known…
This isn’t archaeology.
This is war.
In the Lands Without, archaeologist Lori Brickland has found a pottery shard with a heartbeat. The pulse might be a trick of the mind, or it might be the first sign of life in a world of ruin. An exiled traveler will say she shouldn’t search for the truth, a calculating ruler will say she’s the one he’s looking for. And the kingdom? The kingdom will need her before the end. It’s time to accept what she’s always known…
This isn’t archaeology.
This is war.
- GenresFantasy
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2018
3 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 11, 2019
“When something shocks you, it’s easy to think you’re the only one who’s ever been shocked by it.”
In the Lands Within, sentient archaeological layers communicate with the living, choosing friends and enemies- and its kings. But now an alliance has been struck and an ancient evil is soaking into the soil. History is being erased, purchased, and re-written at a terrible price. In the Lands Without, archaeologist Lori Brickland has found a pottery shard with a heartbeat, and when a strange traveler leads her to a kingdom that’s fading from memory, it’s time to accept that this isn’t archaeology… it’s war.
If you follow Marino on her bookstagram account (@dcmarinoauthor), then you know that this woman is a natural storyteller, always breathing magic and life into the mundane and the ordinary. Her imagination knows no bounds, and it was a breathtaking experience to see the full force of her imagination at work in her novel. Reading Kingdom of Ruins was a new adventure unlike any other. Being nothing like anything I’ve read before, it was an exhilarating and unpredictable journey through a new land -- with such detailed sounds and sights it was almost tangible.
Now, this book is slow, especially in the beginning. I don’t say this to deter you; oftentimes slow is assumed synonymous with bad or boring, and that couldn’t be further from the truth with this book. With slower books, it all boils down to writing, and my gosh, Marino’s writing is perfectly descriptive and spellbinding. At many points while reading, what I thought were 5 pages read were actually 20.
I think really the only part I struggled with was at the beginning with the main character, Lori. She seemed almost completely unfazed at times with the situation/place she finds herself; she is at ease with finding out information as it comes to her instead of asking questions (which may just be me and my super inquisitive personality coming out). Because of this part of Lori’s nature, we find things out as she does. But be patient! You will have answers and it’s worth the wait.
The characters and the world Marino built is mind-blowing. There are many unique elements at work in this book, but I don’t want to spoil anything, so all I can say is PLEASE read this book! The creativity behind its whole creation whisked me away, mind and soul. I laughed out loud, and I cried. And those last couple chapters had me on the edge of my seat! I loved all the characters, and I can’t wait to learn more about them, especially Thane. I desperately need book two!
In the Lands Within, sentient archaeological layers communicate with the living, choosing friends and enemies- and its kings. But now an alliance has been struck and an ancient evil is soaking into the soil. History is being erased, purchased, and re-written at a terrible price. In the Lands Without, archaeologist Lori Brickland has found a pottery shard with a heartbeat, and when a strange traveler leads her to a kingdom that’s fading from memory, it’s time to accept that this isn’t archaeology… it’s war.
If you follow Marino on her bookstagram account (@dcmarinoauthor), then you know that this woman is a natural storyteller, always breathing magic and life into the mundane and the ordinary. Her imagination knows no bounds, and it was a breathtaking experience to see the full force of her imagination at work in her novel. Reading Kingdom of Ruins was a new adventure unlike any other. Being nothing like anything I’ve read before, it was an exhilarating and unpredictable journey through a new land -- with such detailed sounds and sights it was almost tangible.
Now, this book is slow, especially in the beginning. I don’t say this to deter you; oftentimes slow is assumed synonymous with bad or boring, and that couldn’t be further from the truth with this book. With slower books, it all boils down to writing, and my gosh, Marino’s writing is perfectly descriptive and spellbinding. At many points while reading, what I thought were 5 pages read were actually 20.
I think really the only part I struggled with was at the beginning with the main character, Lori. She seemed almost completely unfazed at times with the situation/place she finds herself; she is at ease with finding out information as it comes to her instead of asking questions (which may just be me and my super inquisitive personality coming out). Because of this part of Lori’s nature, we find things out as she does. But be patient! You will have answers and it’s worth the wait.
The characters and the world Marino built is mind-blowing. There are many unique elements at work in this book, but I don’t want to spoil anything, so all I can say is PLEASE read this book! The creativity behind its whole creation whisked me away, mind and soul. I laughed out loud, and I cried. And those last couple chapters had me on the edge of my seat! I loved all the characters, and I can’t wait to learn more about them, especially Thane. I desperately need book two!
August 4, 2018
I just finished Kingdom of Ruins and I absolutely loved it. It’s a fantasy novel, but it’s also rich with historical references, and filled with really interesting stuff about archeology. Bringing archeology into a fantasy book is a concept that I’ve never seen before, and it was such a fresh take on a timeless genre. The world was very detailed and immersive, and the characters were so real that even when reading the dialog in my head, they had their own distinct personalities. I cannot wait to see what else is in store for Lori and Thane!
May 20, 2025
(Updated: 2022)
3rd? 4th? Reread… And as always I’m madly in love with the world, the people, the cultures, the lands… etc etc etc
Absolutely everything in this story makes me fall in love with it all over again every single time I read it!!
Again. I need more than 5 stars for this book !!
(Previous review
I can’t actually say all of what this book, the story, the characters, the world really truly means to me now...
It’s hard to put into words a book that has become a part of who you are, a part of who you want to become.
I’d give this book a THOUSAND stars if I could but to also be a teeny critical of it and not absolutely biased, the beginning was a little slow paced and I’m not the biggest fan of Lori, she’s grown on me during my rereads but still, if you’ve read KoR then you’ll understand what I mean when I say that I felt like Thane towards her.
Oh gosh, I brought him UP!!! Let’s not get me started on Thane, the ULTIMATE book boyfriend, morally gray incarnate! But he’s actually really great, he’s just too afraid to believe he’s good. *swoons* !!!
How many reviews can you write? Because this will not do it justice for how I feel!!!
I’ll leave with this; Archeology, meets fantasy, meets morally gray wanderer, meets found family, meets depressing, meets hope, meets longing, meets laughter, meets tears, meets MY ALL TIME FAVORITE BOOK !!!
3rd? 4th? Reread… And as always I’m madly in love with the world, the people, the cultures, the lands… etc etc etc
Absolutely everything in this story makes me fall in love with it all over again every single time I read it!!
Again. I need more than 5 stars for this book !!
(Previous review
I can’t actually say all of what this book, the story, the characters, the world really truly means to me now...
It’s hard to put into words a book that has become a part of who you are, a part of who you want to become.
I’d give this book a THOUSAND stars if I could but to also be a teeny critical of it and not absolutely biased, the beginning was a little slow paced and I’m not the biggest fan of Lori, she’s grown on me during my rereads but still, if you’ve read KoR then you’ll understand what I mean when I say that I felt like Thane towards her.
Oh gosh, I brought him UP!!! Let’s not get me started on Thane, the ULTIMATE book boyfriend, morally gray incarnate! But he’s actually really great, he’s just too afraid to believe he’s good. *swoons* !!!
How many reviews can you write? Because this will not do it justice for how I feel!!!
I’ll leave with this; Archeology, meets fantasy, meets morally gray wanderer, meets found family, meets depressing, meets hope, meets longing, meets laughter, meets tears, meets MY ALL TIME FAVORITE BOOK !!!
August 3, 2018
~4.5 stars~ Fantasy isn’t my go-to genre, but this story hooked me from the first page. Not only is the writing style engaging—by turns descriptive, lyrical, and even drily humorous—but I loved the idea of an archaeologist with a phobia of ruins. And then I discovered the Lands Within…
This is a world that truly felt alive—and unique! Water, wind, soil, trees—all these elements have a living presence in the Lands Within, as do the ruins… Then there are the characters like the ever-chatty Meridian and the austere and serious Thane, each of whom I couldn’t help but be drawn to from the moment I met them. The world-building is so complete that the characters from the Lands Within even have their own exclamations and expressions! By the Epochs!
But back to the archaeologist afraid of ruins. Atephobia is the technical name for a fear of ruins, and I was surprised to discover that it’s a real condition. For Lori, artefacts have stories—heartbeats—that are lost to time. She can sense them calling to her from beneath the ground, but once they’re dug up? Silence. Death. When she finds herself in the Lands Within, however, she’s overwhelmed by the stories she can sense in everything from an old Mapmaker’s cottage to the very soil itself. Such a vibrant history, and yet the people are not only ignorant of their past, but living in denial of it.
For a history-lover like myself, it was thoroughly enjoyable to read about a world where history is alive, and where uncovering its secrets is the key to survival. Is it every atephobic's nightmare, or is it exactly what Lori needs to help her overcome her 'illness'?
Best of all, the end leaves me in hope that we haven’t seen the last of the Lands Within. I will definitely be keeping my eye on this author!
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
This is a world that truly felt alive—and unique! Water, wind, soil, trees—all these elements have a living presence in the Lands Within, as do the ruins… Then there are the characters like the ever-chatty Meridian and the austere and serious Thane, each of whom I couldn’t help but be drawn to from the moment I met them. The world-building is so complete that the characters from the Lands Within even have their own exclamations and expressions! By the Epochs!
But back to the archaeologist afraid of ruins. Atephobia is the technical name for a fear of ruins, and I was surprised to discover that it’s a real condition. For Lori, artefacts have stories—heartbeats—that are lost to time. She can sense them calling to her from beneath the ground, but once they’re dug up? Silence. Death. When she finds herself in the Lands Within, however, she’s overwhelmed by the stories she can sense in everything from an old Mapmaker’s cottage to the very soil itself. Such a vibrant history, and yet the people are not only ignorant of their past, but living in denial of it.
For a history-lover like myself, it was thoroughly enjoyable to read about a world where history is alive, and where uncovering its secrets is the key to survival. Is it every atephobic's nightmare, or is it exactly what Lori needs to help her overcome her 'illness'?
Best of all, the end leaves me in hope that we haven’t seen the last of the Lands Within. I will definitely be keeping my eye on this author!
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
October 22, 2018
This book is incredibly fascinating! There are so many things I loved about it, but I think what drew me in the most is the idea that the land itself is a sentient being, or beings really, with feelings and opinions. Not only that but they are one, a family, generations and generations of wisdom and disagreements. You can almost feel what the different Epochs feel, how they love each other and hate each other all at once, as you or I would with our own families. Though there are so many fantastic characters in this story, that drew me in the most and spoke to me on a personal level. The author really conveyed the dissonance between generations well and the love they had for each other despite it all. But I digress....
I’ll be completely honest, the book did start off a little slow but nothing too bad, and it definitely made up for it from the middle to the end. I think more than anything I was just so excited to read it in the beginning I psyched myself up a bit too much (these things happen sometimes). The character arc of...well let’s be honest...ALL OF THE CHARACTERS was fantastic. I really liked how Thane transitioned and opened up throughout the book, and how Lori really got a sense of who she may be and what she is capable of. My favorite character is still Lori’s grandpa hands down. Despite his very short appearance.
I was completely taken in by this book and enjoyed every turn of the page. I hope upon hope that I am taken farther into this world in the future. It is one too beautiful to pass up.
I’ll be completely honest, the book did start off a little slow but nothing too bad, and it definitely made up for it from the middle to the end. I think more than anything I was just so excited to read it in the beginning I psyched myself up a bit too much (these things happen sometimes). The character arc of...well let’s be honest...ALL OF THE CHARACTERS was fantastic. I really liked how Thane transitioned and opened up throughout the book, and how Lori really got a sense of who she may be and what she is capable of. My favorite character is still Lori’s grandpa hands down. Despite his very short appearance.
I was completely taken in by this book and enjoyed every turn of the page. I hope upon hope that I am taken farther into this world in the future. It is one too beautiful to pass up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2018
This fantasy tale is refreshing with colorful characters in another world worn with mysteries and secrets, begging for answers and hope. History is alive. Ruins breathe and yearn to tell their stories. I enjoyed the journey wanting for the hope of life to replace the tombs of death.
Lori is a present-day archaeologist who feels the past through items or places she finds. Her career threatens to end as she develops, or permits, her atephobia (fear of ruins) to prevail. As she slips into the past, she discovers a hidden part of history that releases clues to possibly prevent more ruin.
Can she prevent anything with her presence and her acute sense of life in pieces of history? Or will it all slip away into a past never to be remembered?
Personally, I have felt how an inanimate object can seem to breathe and beg to be noticed, call for its story to be told again and again. I’ve experienced an old house suffocating from lack of a living being’s love. Then, I’ve felt it breathe as windows were opened and humans with their love and care entered the boundaries of its walls. As a house that is abandoned and begins to decay, history needs to be remembered before it falls to ruin.
I enjoyed the details of this fantasy as the characters attempt to revive a bit of the past before it is too late.
Lori is a present-day archaeologist who feels the past through items or places she finds. Her career threatens to end as she develops, or permits, her atephobia (fear of ruins) to prevail. As she slips into the past, she discovers a hidden part of history that releases clues to possibly prevent more ruin.
Can she prevent anything with her presence and her acute sense of life in pieces of history? Or will it all slip away into a past never to be remembered?
Personally, I have felt how an inanimate object can seem to breathe and beg to be noticed, call for its story to be told again and again. I’ve experienced an old house suffocating from lack of a living being’s love. Then, I’ve felt it breathe as windows were opened and humans with their love and care entered the boundaries of its walls. As a house that is abandoned and begins to decay, history needs to be remembered before it falls to ruin.
I enjoyed the details of this fantasy as the characters attempt to revive a bit of the past before it is too late.
August 16, 2018
This book was so fun to read! I thought I was on the adventure right with Lori the whole time. The author really had me right from the start. It doesn’t take long for story to really capture you and you find yourself hooked. I thought the author was so creative in writing this story. First of all, I would never think of it! But more importantly it’s not something I’ve read before. The idea of taking something like archaeology and turning it into this fantasy tale makes me want to go start digging somewhere!
The thought that the author had behind each character, each scene, fact, and realm was evident. And while the book is longer then most I’ve been reading lately, it didn’t really bother me. I was so entranced in the story line I didn’t notice. Lori is a character that needs some growth for sure, and in that was I found her to be very relatable. Fantasy genre readers will want to dive into this story as soon as they can. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The thought that the author had behind each character, each scene, fact, and realm was evident. And while the book is longer then most I’ve been reading lately, it didn’t really bother me. I was so entranced in the story line I didn’t notice. Lori is a character that needs some growth for sure, and in that was I found her to be very relatable. Fantasy genre readers will want to dive into this story as soon as they can. I can’t wait to see what’s coming next from this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 28, 2020
The concept behind this book and its execution completely blew me away! D.C. Marino is a master of storytelling & bringing this completely unique fantasy world to life - its cultures, flora & fauna are rich in history, folklore and tradition and truly leap off the page. This story weaves an incredible intersection of academics, history & science with magic in a way I've never read before! With effortlessly lyrical writing, she spins an immersive fantasy setting like none I've seen before & I can't wait for more from this author's brilliant and imaginative mind.
January 4, 2019
So imaginative and such beautiful language!
Four instead of five stars because I thought there were places where the character didn't react with surprise or wonder to unbelievable things or didn't try to figure out what was going on when she didn't understand.
I liked the characters a lot, and the central conflict took on more and more impact as the story continued. There were surprises and twists that kept me reading, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!!
Four instead of five stars because I thought there were places where the character didn't react with surprise or wonder to unbelievable things or didn't try to figure out what was going on when she didn't understand.
I liked the characters a lot, and the central conflict took on more and more impact as the story continued. There were surprises and twists that kept me reading, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!!
August 3, 2018
Thursday, August 2, 2018
Kingdom of Review by D.C. Marino
Can you imagine that you were in a field that gave you chills, shakes, fear and conflict? The Main character in this book was. Lori was an archeologist. She was born for this job. It was in her blood.
I'm not one for fantasy fiction so I did have difficulty getting through this book. But by the conclusion of this book I was hooked. Lori was on a mission. She just didn't expect that she would play such an important role in the war in The Land Within.
Can Lori conquer her fears and do what's needed? How about you? What fear or concern holds you back?
I received this free to review.
About the Book
Title: Kingdom of Ruins
Author: D.C. Marino
Genre: Fantasy
Release Date: July 27, 2018
In the Lands Within, history does not rest. Each archaeological layer communicates with the living generation, choosing its friends and enemies—and its kings. But an alliance has been struck no one could have anticipated, and an ancient evil is soaking into the soil. History is being erased, purchased and re-written at a terrible price. And a kingdom that shouldn’t have been forgotten is fading from memory.
In the Lands Without, archaeologist Lori Brickland has found a pottery shard with a heartbeat. The pulse might be a trick of the mind, or it might be the first sign of life in a world of ruin. An exiled traveler will say she shouldn’t search for the truth, a calculating ruler will say she’s the one he’s looking for. And the kingdom? The kingdom will need her before the end. It’s time to accept what she’s always known…
This isn’t archaeology.
This is war.
Click here to purchase your copy!
About the Author
D.C. Marinois a dedicated reader of history books and fantasy novels, both of which occupy an equal amount of space on her bookshelves. But it wasn’t until she realized how one breathed life into the other that she became addicted to finding the intersections of the real world and the fairy story. Still more: what those intersections about us as a creative, curious people. Kingdom of Ruins is her debut novel.
Guest Post from D.C. Marino
Hi everyone!
I’m so excited to share Kingdom of Ruins with you! This story has been on my heart and mind for over ten years now, so this feels a bit surreal. I’d love to tell you a bit about why I wrote this book. But in order to do that, I need to tell you why I almost didn’t.
Fantasy. It isn’t real. Why should I spend time writing a story that doesn’t grapple with the actual issues of the day? Why not speak plainly, instead of inventing another world to explore the real one? These were the questions I asked myself every night before I fell asleep. I adored fiction that transported me to factual events, or introduced me to historical figures, but every time I picked up a pen, the fantastical wiggled out of it.
I was afraid I was writing the wrong story.
This story oddly (or not so oddly) enough began with Lori, an atephobic archaeologist. Meaning she had a passion for archaeology, but a phobic fear of ruins. Why would she shrink back from the work she loved? Because no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t make whole the broken. Life ends in dust, and that’s all there is to it. I felt the same way. Not only was I writing something I wasn’t sure would be relevant, but could it mend anything? Make a difference? Or was it futile, like trying to resurrect the past?
What I found was exactly what Lori begins to find in Kingdom of Ruins. That even though things seem unfixable, it isn’t the end. The world Lori enters is full of darkness and peril, but it also holds a chance for her to heal from more than just her fear. While I wrote, and especially as I neared the last chapter, I realized she and I had both overcome a great challenge. I won’t tell you her conclusion, but I will tell you mine:
I wrote the right story.
I hope you enjoy every bit of the journey as I did, dear reader.
D.C. Marino
Blog Stops
Carpe Diem, July 31
Remembrancy, July 31
Inklings and notions, August 1
Fiction Aficionado, August 2
Multifarious, August 3
Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 3
Connect in Fiction, August 4
Bigreadersite, August 4
Bibliophile Reviews, August 5
A Reader’s Brain, August 6
Just the Write Escape, August 7
Margaret Kazmierczak, August 8
Aryn the Libraryan, August 8
Simple Harvest Reads, August 9 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)
Blogging With Carol, August 10
proud to be an autism mom, August 10
Texas Book-aholic, August 11
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 12
Janices book reviews, August 12
A Baker’s Perspective, August 13
Giveaway
To celebrate the tour, Celebrate Lit Publishing is giving away a grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!https://promosimple.com/ps/ced0/kingd...
Kingdom of Review by D.C. Marino
Can you imagine that you were in a field that gave you chills, shakes, fear and conflict? The Main character in this book was. Lori was an archeologist. She was born for this job. It was in her blood.
I'm not one for fantasy fiction so I did have difficulty getting through this book. But by the conclusion of this book I was hooked. Lori was on a mission. She just didn't expect that she would play such an important role in the war in The Land Within.
Can Lori conquer her fears and do what's needed? How about you? What fear or concern holds you back?
I received this free to review.
About the Book
Title: Kingdom of Ruins
Author: D.C. Marino
Genre: Fantasy
Release Date: July 27, 2018
In the Lands Within, history does not rest. Each archaeological layer communicates with the living generation, choosing its friends and enemies—and its kings. But an alliance has been struck no one could have anticipated, and an ancient evil is soaking into the soil. History is being erased, purchased and re-written at a terrible price. And a kingdom that shouldn’t have been forgotten is fading from memory.
In the Lands Without, archaeologist Lori Brickland has found a pottery shard with a heartbeat. The pulse might be a trick of the mind, or it might be the first sign of life in a world of ruin. An exiled traveler will say she shouldn’t search for the truth, a calculating ruler will say she’s the one he’s looking for. And the kingdom? The kingdom will need her before the end. It’s time to accept what she’s always known…
This isn’t archaeology.
This is war.
Click here to purchase your copy!
About the Author
D.C. Marinois a dedicated reader of history books and fantasy novels, both of which occupy an equal amount of space on her bookshelves. But it wasn’t until she realized how one breathed life into the other that she became addicted to finding the intersections of the real world and the fairy story. Still more: what those intersections about us as a creative, curious people. Kingdom of Ruins is her debut novel.
Guest Post from D.C. Marino
Hi everyone!
I’m so excited to share Kingdom of Ruins with you! This story has been on my heart and mind for over ten years now, so this feels a bit surreal. I’d love to tell you a bit about why I wrote this book. But in order to do that, I need to tell you why I almost didn’t.
Fantasy. It isn’t real. Why should I spend time writing a story that doesn’t grapple with the actual issues of the day? Why not speak plainly, instead of inventing another world to explore the real one? These were the questions I asked myself every night before I fell asleep. I adored fiction that transported me to factual events, or introduced me to historical figures, but every time I picked up a pen, the fantastical wiggled out of it.
I was afraid I was writing the wrong story.
This story oddly (or not so oddly) enough began with Lori, an atephobic archaeologist. Meaning she had a passion for archaeology, but a phobic fear of ruins. Why would she shrink back from the work she loved? Because no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t make whole the broken. Life ends in dust, and that’s all there is to it. I felt the same way. Not only was I writing something I wasn’t sure would be relevant, but could it mend anything? Make a difference? Or was it futile, like trying to resurrect the past?
What I found was exactly what Lori begins to find in Kingdom of Ruins. That even though things seem unfixable, it isn’t the end. The world Lori enters is full of darkness and peril, but it also holds a chance for her to heal from more than just her fear. While I wrote, and especially as I neared the last chapter, I realized she and I had both overcome a great challenge. I won’t tell you her conclusion, but I will tell you mine:
I wrote the right story.
I hope you enjoy every bit of the journey as I did, dear reader.
D.C. Marino
Blog Stops
Carpe Diem, July 31
Remembrancy, July 31
Inklings and notions, August 1
Fiction Aficionado, August 2
Multifarious, August 3
Jeanette’s Thoughts, August 3
Connect in Fiction, August 4
Bigreadersite, August 4
Bibliophile Reviews, August 5
A Reader’s Brain, August 6
Just the Write Escape, August 7
Margaret Kazmierczak, August 8
Aryn the Libraryan, August 8
Simple Harvest Reads, August 9 (Guest post from Mindy Houng)
Blogging With Carol, August 10
proud to be an autism mom, August 10
Texas Book-aholic, August 11
Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, August 12
Janices book reviews, August 12
A Baker’s Perspective, August 13
Giveaway
To celebrate the tour, Celebrate Lit Publishing is giving away a grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!
Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries!https://promosimple.com/ps/ced0/kingd...
August 11, 2018
What an extremely well written journey the author takes us on. Loris is an archaeologist who takes her work serious. Her grandfather has taught her well to respect what she finds. I found it fascinating to read about the artifacts she finds and she can sense they are trying to tell her something. Lori feels like she has developed an hereditary illness that her mother had. Atephobia is the fear of ruin. But that can't be possible because she can feel the pulse of an artifact when she touches it. It is telling her when it is from, or what happened to it.
She has decided to leave it all behind and find another job, but something happens to pique her interest once more. What would it be like to touch something buried and long forgotten only to feel it thumping in your fingers as if to say, "I was important at one time. I have a story to tell." Lori's adventure starts when she follows a man who was intrigued by an artifact in her grandfather's museum. It was as if the artifact was there and then for a brief moment disappeared then reappeared before her eyes. About this time, I would be asking myself if I was having an hallucination and needed medical attention. When the man she followed on the train has a ring that does the same disappearing act, Lori is determined to find out what connection he has to the artifact.
The story explodes as Lori finds herself in another world where trees whisper and blue lights dance across the sky. The strange man whose name is Thane, is there and quickly tells her to follow him. I could vividly see the stranger as he lifted his sword and took authority over the threat that was close to him and Lori. Who was this stranger that dressed in armor with a sword that disappears as suddenly as it appeared? Lori has stumbled into something that will test her faith and sanity. The author has an impressive imagination and the story is fantasy at its best. I don't read a lot of fantasy books, but the author has convinced me that I have been missing out on a genre that is plentiful in action and details.
The Lands Within is a mystical place filled with kings, history and danger. I felt transported there as Lori felt the place start to talk to her. She has anxiety but I loved how she talked herself through it. I liked when Lori said, "When something shocks you, it's easy to think you are the only one who's shocked by it." We can sometimes think we are the only ones affected by something, but forget others around us are experiencing the same thing. We can be shocked when we encounter something that scares us, but we forget that others have probably experienced the same thing. It makes me think of someone seeing their house destroyed by a fire and then realize their neighborhood is being destroyed. We forget about what others are going through because we are so focused on ourselves.
Lori and Thane find themselves in danger as they race through the Land Within. It is non stop action and along the way they meet interesting things that can only be described as a presence we have never experienced. I have learned through this story that you can trust others and your own instinct. The world Lori travels to is rich in greed, sin and power. Will she be able to fight it off or fall for its trickery and promises? Throughout the story I was impressed with Lori's ability to overcome her anxiety and rely on her instincts. I can't wait for the next book in this series to continue following Lori and Thane.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
She has decided to leave it all behind and find another job, but something happens to pique her interest once more. What would it be like to touch something buried and long forgotten only to feel it thumping in your fingers as if to say, "I was important at one time. I have a story to tell." Lori's adventure starts when she follows a man who was intrigued by an artifact in her grandfather's museum. It was as if the artifact was there and then for a brief moment disappeared then reappeared before her eyes. About this time, I would be asking myself if I was having an hallucination and needed medical attention. When the man she followed on the train has a ring that does the same disappearing act, Lori is determined to find out what connection he has to the artifact.
The story explodes as Lori finds herself in another world where trees whisper and blue lights dance across the sky. The strange man whose name is Thane, is there and quickly tells her to follow him. I could vividly see the stranger as he lifted his sword and took authority over the threat that was close to him and Lori. Who was this stranger that dressed in armor with a sword that disappears as suddenly as it appeared? Lori has stumbled into something that will test her faith and sanity. The author has an impressive imagination and the story is fantasy at its best. I don't read a lot of fantasy books, but the author has convinced me that I have been missing out on a genre that is plentiful in action and details.
The Lands Within is a mystical place filled with kings, history and danger. I felt transported there as Lori felt the place start to talk to her. She has anxiety but I loved how she talked herself through it. I liked when Lori said, "When something shocks you, it's easy to think you are the only one who's shocked by it." We can sometimes think we are the only ones affected by something, but forget others around us are experiencing the same thing. We can be shocked when we encounter something that scares us, but we forget that others have probably experienced the same thing. It makes me think of someone seeing their house destroyed by a fire and then realize their neighborhood is being destroyed. We forget about what others are going through because we are so focused on ourselves.
Lori and Thane find themselves in danger as they race through the Land Within. It is non stop action and along the way they meet interesting things that can only be described as a presence we have never experienced. I have learned through this story that you can trust others and your own instinct. The world Lori travels to is rich in greed, sin and power. Will she be able to fight it off or fall for its trickery and promises? Throughout the story I was impressed with Lori's ability to overcome her anxiety and rely on her instincts. I can't wait for the next book in this series to continue following Lori and Thane.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
August 8, 2018
My Penny's Worth
Having read D.C. Marino's Points Worth - A Kingdom of Ruins Novelette the prequel to Kingdom of Ruins, I knew the story would be refreshing in its originality. The saga is built up carefully like an archaeological dig, with each piece meticulously brushed to its original form so that the reader can see its exquisite outline. The cracks of old age crafted by words to complete the ornate discovery.
Each find tells a broader tale and points to clues that later reveal the missing pieces in the jigsaw.
Trees that talk?
Talk about turning things upside down, with trees communicating, soil passing messages and all contributing to a cacophony of sounds. Everything in nature appears animated as the Kingdom prepares for war.
I love the fact that the main character Lori, an archaeologist has a phobia of ruins. Such a handicap tickled my odd sense of humour.
A reader's delight, well at least for me!
There are some writing gems such as “His team had uncovered an Anglo-Saxon church in Yorkshire. Its muddy walls were half-exposed and gulped the fresh air. After eleven hundred years they were raised. She pressed her ears to one of the crumbled walls to see if she could hear a heartbeat. She blew on it because maybe it needed to remember how to breathe.” I wanted to hear the wall breathe too.
What I loved
I love the way Lori talks to inanimate objects; this is so me! “She (Lori) could feel their silent judgement, (in this case she is looking at two black banners heralding her Grandfather’s exhibition), so she asked them, very politely, to please shut up.” The book is full of these conversations, exchanges that bring to life, life that does not exist in such objects. However, they do “Once the glass was removed, Lori picked up the potsherd. It slipped into her palm, blood-warm and with a pulse. No. She curled her fingers around the potsherd. No, I don’t feel a pulse. But there it was: a rapid thump-thump against her fingertips, the heartbeat of someone nervous or scared.” What wonderful writing. Again this book like Points Worth had me hooked.
A Kingdom of hidden secrets
If I said this book is about something hidden from the past that needs restoring in the present, to protect an unsuspecting community who knows nothing of their history, then the seed is only just being planted in your mind. This is the kernel of the story. A fantastic web of threads weaving in and out, drawing you in and refusing to let go until you reach the final page. But hang it all you might not like fantasy, if not think of classics like Lord of the Rings or Narnia. Did you enjoy them? If so take a peek at this novel.
What would I award it?
4.5 stars because I have to wait for the next book!!
Thank you, D.C. for writing a cracker of a novel.
*I received this book for free. No compensation was received, and all opinions are my own.*
Having read D.C. Marino's Points Worth - A Kingdom of Ruins Novelette the prequel to Kingdom of Ruins, I knew the story would be refreshing in its originality. The saga is built up carefully like an archaeological dig, with each piece meticulously brushed to its original form so that the reader can see its exquisite outline. The cracks of old age crafted by words to complete the ornate discovery.
Each find tells a broader tale and points to clues that later reveal the missing pieces in the jigsaw.
Trees that talk?
Talk about turning things upside down, with trees communicating, soil passing messages and all contributing to a cacophony of sounds. Everything in nature appears animated as the Kingdom prepares for war.
I love the fact that the main character Lori, an archaeologist has a phobia of ruins. Such a handicap tickled my odd sense of humour.
A reader's delight, well at least for me!
There are some writing gems such as “His team had uncovered an Anglo-Saxon church in Yorkshire. Its muddy walls were half-exposed and gulped the fresh air. After eleven hundred years they were raised. She pressed her ears to one of the crumbled walls to see if she could hear a heartbeat. She blew on it because maybe it needed to remember how to breathe.” I wanted to hear the wall breathe too.
What I loved
I love the way Lori talks to inanimate objects; this is so me! “She (Lori) could feel their silent judgement, (in this case she is looking at two black banners heralding her Grandfather’s exhibition), so she asked them, very politely, to please shut up.” The book is full of these conversations, exchanges that bring to life, life that does not exist in such objects. However, they do “Once the glass was removed, Lori picked up the potsherd. It slipped into her palm, blood-warm and with a pulse. No. She curled her fingers around the potsherd. No, I don’t feel a pulse. But there it was: a rapid thump-thump against her fingertips, the heartbeat of someone nervous or scared.” What wonderful writing. Again this book like Points Worth had me hooked.
A Kingdom of hidden secrets
If I said this book is about something hidden from the past that needs restoring in the present, to protect an unsuspecting community who knows nothing of their history, then the seed is only just being planted in your mind. This is the kernel of the story. A fantastic web of threads weaving in and out, drawing you in and refusing to let go until you reach the final page. But hang it all you might not like fantasy, if not think of classics like Lord of the Rings or Narnia. Did you enjoy them? If so take a peek at this novel.
What would I award it?
4.5 stars because I have to wait for the next book!!
Thank you, D.C. for writing a cracker of a novel.
*I received this book for free. No compensation was received, and all opinions are my own.*
August 14, 2018
When a Unique Premise Really Is Enough
An archaeologist who is afraid of ruins—of dead things. What a phobia to develop! When D.C. Marino said that her book was like Indiana Jones meets Lord of the Rings, I didn’t quite know what to make of it. Could she pull that off?
Could anyone?
The idea of a world where everything is sentient—would it be beautiful and magical or overworked? So, with a bit of excitement and more than a little unease, I cracked open that book and began reading.
Look, it’s Marino’s first book. Just how good could it be? Would she have the writing skills to pull it off?
Could she make us see and feel the world without drowning in description? Epic fantasy requires a lot of description! They take you out of the known world into the unknown. It needs some incredible world building to do that without being heavy.
Did she do it?
Oh, yeah! And she didn’t just do it, she did it well. I’m not a very emotional person, especially about things like someone writing something well. I mean, really? But seriously, I almost cried when I saw how fabulously she’d drawn us into her world and set us loose among trees that communicate with soil that communicates with sky and water…
And if you don’t believe that’s important, perhaps you should start with the introductory novelette, Points Worth.
Seriously, that was one of the most wonderful short stories I’ve ever read. It left me wanting more… and more… which is what I learned we’ll get. A novelette about this sea town between each of the five Kingdom of Ruins novels. Squee!
I digress.
But a fabulous and wonderful world isn’t all Marino gives us. She knows how to craft a character that you love, want to shake, who can trick you and make you believe one thing until he or she proves another to be true. In Kingdom of Ruins, I found people I wanted to root for, fight with, protect, weep over.
And she did it all without once slipping into the frustrating habit of under-delivering.
Here’s the thing. Kingdom of Ruins manages to be both a slow journey and a fast-paced epic novel that keeps your senses and allegiances engaged from the first page until the last. You walk away from it wanting more—so much more—and not because she didn’t deliver a solid and complete story in this book.
It’s because when it comes to Kingdom of Ruins, the premise alone really is enough, but D.C. Marino gives more than enough… And then keeps on delivering with fabulous world building, excellent storytelling, wonderful characterization, and solid, delightful writing.
Counting down the minutes to the next.
No pressure.
(that’s a total lie—lots of pressure. Hurry up.)
An archaeologist who is afraid of ruins—of dead things. What a phobia to develop! When D.C. Marino said that her book was like Indiana Jones meets Lord of the Rings, I didn’t quite know what to make of it. Could she pull that off?
Could anyone?
The idea of a world where everything is sentient—would it be beautiful and magical or overworked? So, with a bit of excitement and more than a little unease, I cracked open that book and began reading.
Look, it’s Marino’s first book. Just how good could it be? Would she have the writing skills to pull it off?
Could she make us see and feel the world without drowning in description? Epic fantasy requires a lot of description! They take you out of the known world into the unknown. It needs some incredible world building to do that without being heavy.
Did she do it?
Oh, yeah! And she didn’t just do it, she did it well. I’m not a very emotional person, especially about things like someone writing something well. I mean, really? But seriously, I almost cried when I saw how fabulously she’d drawn us into her world and set us loose among trees that communicate with soil that communicates with sky and water…
And if you don’t believe that’s important, perhaps you should start with the introductory novelette, Points Worth.
Seriously, that was one of the most wonderful short stories I’ve ever read. It left me wanting more… and more… which is what I learned we’ll get. A novelette about this sea town between each of the five Kingdom of Ruins novels. Squee!
I digress.
But a fabulous and wonderful world isn’t all Marino gives us. She knows how to craft a character that you love, want to shake, who can trick you and make you believe one thing until he or she proves another to be true. In Kingdom of Ruins, I found people I wanted to root for, fight with, protect, weep over.
And she did it all without once slipping into the frustrating habit of under-delivering.
Here’s the thing. Kingdom of Ruins manages to be both a slow journey and a fast-paced epic novel that keeps your senses and allegiances engaged from the first page until the last. You walk away from it wanting more—so much more—and not because she didn’t deliver a solid and complete story in this book.
It’s because when it comes to Kingdom of Ruins, the premise alone really is enough, but D.C. Marino gives more than enough… And then keeps on delivering with fabulous world building, excellent storytelling, wonderful characterization, and solid, delightful writing.
Counting down the minutes to the next.
No pressure.
(that’s a total lie—lots of pressure. Hurry up.)
August 8, 2018
A pottery shard with a heartbeat? Okay, that would freak me out! Here in the “Land Without” that’s just not normal!
Jumping into the Land Within, well, as much as I Love Narnia and a host of other stories where people from here are pulled into another world, I don’t believe I would be brave enough to go!
Miller Coutry of the Land Within is a kingdom of ruins. A small, remote community of peaceful country folk. Lots of ancient ruins scattered about, and people can actually communicate with the elements. Wind, water, soil, trees… Even the past! How cool is that!?
And yet, not long ago it looked much different. War is coming soon, can these peaceful country people stand up to the challenge?
Kingdom Examples
Meridian is so much fun! I think she is my favorite. Her spunk and energy. Determination, and loyalty to her family and her community.
Lori’s courage stood out to me because it was little decisions to work through her fears and anxiety. She would step back, talk herself through it, and try again. She had no “reputation” to protect in this place so Lori was more willing to attempt to conquer her phobias.
Makes me wonder if I would be more likely to try things if I didn’t feel like I have to maintain my reputation as the good Baptist secretary Christian homeschooling housewife…
The idea of “if these walls could talk” has always intrigued me. Now I know the answer. To be able to witness the history of a place just by walking into the room? Definitely something that could be used for good or bad. Which is very well demonstrated in Kingdom of Ruins.
What’s next? I hope to see this one become a movie! It will need major CGI talent, but I would love to see it played out on the big screen!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventures, archeology, mystery, and somewhat medieval settings.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if the elements could communicate with us?
** I received an advanced copy from the author, though that did not affect my review. All thoughts are my own.
Jumping into the Land Within, well, as much as I Love Narnia and a host of other stories where people from here are pulled into another world, I don’t believe I would be brave enough to go!
Miller Coutry of the Land Within is a kingdom of ruins. A small, remote community of peaceful country folk. Lots of ancient ruins scattered about, and people can actually communicate with the elements. Wind, water, soil, trees… Even the past! How cool is that!?
And yet, not long ago it looked much different. War is coming soon, can these peaceful country people stand up to the challenge?
Kingdom Examples
Meridian is so much fun! I think she is my favorite. Her spunk and energy. Determination, and loyalty to her family and her community.
Lori’s courage stood out to me because it was little decisions to work through her fears and anxiety. She would step back, talk herself through it, and try again. She had no “reputation” to protect in this place so Lori was more willing to attempt to conquer her phobias.
Makes me wonder if I would be more likely to try things if I didn’t feel like I have to maintain my reputation as the good Baptist secretary Christian homeschooling housewife…
The idea of “if these walls could talk” has always intrigued me. Now I know the answer. To be able to witness the history of a place just by walking into the room? Definitely something that could be used for good or bad. Which is very well demonstrated in Kingdom of Ruins.
What’s next? I hope to see this one become a movie! It will need major CGI talent, but I would love to see it played out on the big screen!
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys adventures, archeology, mystery, and somewhat medieval settings.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if the elements could communicate with us?
** I received an advanced copy from the author, though that did not affect my review. All thoughts are my own.
December 4, 2019
This is the wrong edition for this read, because the author's publisher reverted the rights back to her, and she has self published it now under the imprint Ink and Arrow Publishing. She also has other bookish items for sale in her shop! You can find her on Instagram @dcmarinoauthor!
But for some reason, she can't get it to show up on GoodReads. They won't take it off Amazon. So if you do purchase this, make sure the publisher is Ink and Arrow!
Now, for the book. I was asked to be on the street team, and I got an early final copy. First, it is BEAUTIFUL. There is an exquisite map, drawn by @in.the.reads (IG), who, if you don't know, you should go look for, because her map-making skills are stellar.
But then, the story! This is such a great story. I love Lori, our erstwhile archeologist, who is afflicted with some strange condition that makes it hard for her to handle artifacts. She is all ready to retire when she meets a strange man, and follows him down a railroad track, behind a curtain of air... well. It is just wonderful world building, wonderful characterization, and a great story! I love the world she built, the Lands Within, and what comes to pass. The way that history collides with the present day, and what memories mean, and how precious these things are.
I could easily see this world, easily follow in their footsteps. It is somewhat medieval (thank god no cell phones), and there are distinct areas within the world, just like in real life. So it is not your same old homogeneous fantasy land where everyone acts the same. The millers are different from the woodsman are different from the town people.
It is all very complex, as it should be, and full of lovely characters and surprises. I am so happy to help promote this book! Just be sure to get the right edition. It is the first in a series of five! I cannot wait for book two!
But for some reason, she can't get it to show up on GoodReads. They won't take it off Amazon. So if you do purchase this, make sure the publisher is Ink and Arrow!
Now, for the book. I was asked to be on the street team, and I got an early final copy. First, it is BEAUTIFUL. There is an exquisite map, drawn by @in.the.reads (IG), who, if you don't know, you should go look for, because her map-making skills are stellar.
But then, the story! This is such a great story. I love Lori, our erstwhile archeologist, who is afflicted with some strange condition that makes it hard for her to handle artifacts. She is all ready to retire when she meets a strange man, and follows him down a railroad track, behind a curtain of air... well. It is just wonderful world building, wonderful characterization, and a great story! I love the world she built, the Lands Within, and what comes to pass. The way that history collides with the present day, and what memories mean, and how precious these things are.
I could easily see this world, easily follow in their footsteps. It is somewhat medieval (thank god no cell phones), and there are distinct areas within the world, just like in real life. So it is not your same old homogeneous fantasy land where everyone acts the same. The millers are different from the woodsman are different from the town people.
It is all very complex, as it should be, and full of lovely characters and surprises. I am so happy to help promote this book! Just be sure to get the right edition. It is the first in a series of five! I cannot wait for book two!
August 9, 2018
What a great fantasy novel! There is splendid world-building in the story with parallel worlds called Lands Within (their world) and Lands Without (our world). The two worlds are so unique and the author provides many details about the landscape and traditions of Lands Within which all fall into place when the story concludes. Yet the consequences of greed, sin, and war are the same in both worlds and the consequences of ignorance and forgetfulness of our past and history are also the same in both worlds. There is also a bit of mystery and suspense as the main character Lori from Lands Without tries to figure out what the Lands Within is about. Though told through third person narrative, it is a limited third person so it almost reads like first person narrative. Many twists and turns keep the plot absolutely intriguing. The dialogue and interaction between the two main characters, Lori and Thane, are intelligent, amusing, and sometimes downright hilarious.
Lori is a unique archeologist who suffers a tangible condition that prevents her from working in the field that she loves. Her heart is so tender and loving and her keen intelligence that probes answers to difficult questions are so endearing. Thane, from Lands Within, is somewhat difficult to like at the beginning, with his stiffness and brusque mannerisms, but he proves himself as a noble and self-sacrificing hero as the story unfolds.
What an intriguing tale of hope in the face of despair. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! If you enjoy fantasy, you will absolutely love this book.
I was given a copy of the book from the author/publisher through Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Lori is a unique archeologist who suffers a tangible condition that prevents her from working in the field that she loves. Her heart is so tender and loving and her keen intelligence that probes answers to difficult questions are so endearing. Thane, from Lands Within, is somewhat difficult to like at the beginning, with his stiffness and brusque mannerisms, but he proves himself as a noble and self-sacrificing hero as the story unfolds.
What an intriguing tale of hope in the face of despair. I can't wait to read the next book in the series! If you enjoy fantasy, you will absolutely love this book.
I was given a copy of the book from the author/publisher through Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
July 31, 2018
I am a little in awe of the imaginations of authors who write in the fantasy genre. Their ability to take the familiar and twist it into something entirely new yet still recognizable is amazing.
Debut author D. c. Marino does this exact thing, taking the world we know and combining it with one of imagination in such a way as to draw the reader in and invite her to stay a while.
Lori Brickland fears ruins. Her inability to put together the pieces of history hound her, at times making her physically ill. A most unfortunate malady for an archaeologist—and an excellent archaeologist at that.
When an artifact at an exhibit and a man who attends said exhibit capture her notice, she finds herself entering the Lands Within. Through a wormhole!
In this new land, nature reacts, reaches out, listens, and draws out secrets. Here, the past speaks to Lori, but sharing with her new friends causes dire consequences.
Marino peels back the layers of the land and people to reveal the mysteries surrounding them after the reader has become friends with the characters, making you root for them.
With rich, expressive descriptions and characters that leave an impression, Kingdom of Ruins held me captive until the epic culmination of everything leading up to the climax. And hints at things to come in the future of this series.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Debut author D. c. Marino does this exact thing, taking the world we know and combining it with one of imagination in such a way as to draw the reader in and invite her to stay a while.
Lori Brickland fears ruins. Her inability to put together the pieces of history hound her, at times making her physically ill. A most unfortunate malady for an archaeologist—and an excellent archaeologist at that.
When an artifact at an exhibit and a man who attends said exhibit capture her notice, she finds herself entering the Lands Within. Through a wormhole!
In this new land, nature reacts, reaches out, listens, and draws out secrets. Here, the past speaks to Lori, but sharing with her new friends causes dire consequences.
Marino peels back the layers of the land and people to reveal the mysteries surrounding them after the reader has become friends with the characters, making you root for them.
With rich, expressive descriptions and characters that leave an impression, Kingdom of Ruins held me captive until the epic culmination of everything leading up to the climax. And hints at things to come in the future of this series.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
August 3, 2018
After spending our honeymoon in Orlando and making a few visits after that, I learned to appreciate roller coasters and fast rides. But slow rides, I didn’t have to learn to appreciate, because I like that relaxing meandering through nice, quiet scenic or educational rides. Books are different, I love a book that is like a roller coaster, mind-bending intrigue, very dramatic and/or take your breath away exciting. Kingdom of Ruins is not that ride. It’s a quiet wander through a super interesting dimension with nature that is sentient and gifted people who can interpret what the elements are saying. Wind speaks, little breezes play with you, the ocean speaks with special writing and the epochs call out from huge deep chasms. Yes, there is battle and that’s actually pretty cool, since nature joins the fray. It’s really intriguing.
There is just enough mystery and wondering what will happen and what happened before the story, to carry you along. I wasn’t that fond of Lori, I found her a bit lacking, however her career, her gift AND her related phobia (what a combination!) was an intriguing part of the story and helped move me through to the end. But Meridian, the miller’s daughter was great. I kind of wished she was the main character, she was so full of life, color and music.
I’m thinking that in time, I’ll re-read it, and probably will enjoy it more. The creative premises to me are very interesting and many are kind of new to me, so all in all, it was a good read.
DISCLAIMER: I received this book as a gift. The opinions I express are provided without obligation for a positive review. I receive no compensation for the review, other than a really good read.
There is just enough mystery and wondering what will happen and what happened before the story, to carry you along. I wasn’t that fond of Lori, I found her a bit lacking, however her career, her gift AND her related phobia (what a combination!) was an intriguing part of the story and helped move me through to the end. But Meridian, the miller’s daughter was great. I kind of wished she was the main character, she was so full of life, color and music.
I’m thinking that in time, I’ll re-read it, and probably will enjoy it more. The creative premises to me are very interesting and many are kind of new to me, so all in all, it was a good read.
DISCLAIMER: I received this book as a gift. The opinions I express are provided without obligation for a positive review. I receive no compensation for the review, other than a really good read.
August 4, 2018
Fantasy meets reality in a historic way through the eyes of an archeologist that has a fear of ruins. If that sentence seems to twist your head a little bit, get ready for a fun fantasy ride in Kingdom of Ruins. Our author uses great artistry creating "The Lands Within." While it took me a minute to comprehend what was going on, I think our character was in the same frame of mind and we figured it out together. I always enjoy a good fantasy, and it certainly took artisitic skill to craft this one, and the plot we find within. While this read is a lengthy one, and I wish that maybe the action was a bit more fast paced, there is plenty to be in awe of. I connected to Lori because I too tend to be fearful, but the Lord has a way of pushing me way out of comfort zone as Lori finds herself. I felt like the characters were very relatable as well which isn't always easy to do with characters contained within a fantasy world. Overall, great artistry here. If you like adventure, fantasy, or just a fun read that will keep you guessing until the end, Kingdom of Ruins is for you!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions given are my own.
August 10, 2018
Living artifacts, that's something I can dig. (Pun intended.) Reminiscent of some other books I've liked, this book is engaging and has a world that feels eerily familiar, like I've met it or read it before.
An archaeologist afraid of ruins, oh my. Poor Lori, what a thing to have to cope with. I had to read more before I could decide why she would even stay in a profession that caused her so much fear. Lori winds up sucked through a wormhole. Now that she's in another world, it's even more important to fight her fears and use her gifts at every turn. Thane was another strong character and I look forward to the next book in this series.
It's a strong fantasy read, that isn't so far fetch from my own imagination. That makes me feel connected and comfortable with the world that the author created. It's a debut book that should expand into a good series. Themes include, obviously, fighting fear, dealing with sin, good over evil, greed vs giving, and finding out who you really are.
4.5 stars
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My thoughts and opinions are my own, left of my own free will.
An archaeologist afraid of ruins, oh my. Poor Lori, what a thing to have to cope with. I had to read more before I could decide why she would even stay in a profession that caused her so much fear. Lori winds up sucked through a wormhole. Now that she's in another world, it's even more important to fight her fears and use her gifts at every turn. Thane was another strong character and I look forward to the next book in this series.
It's a strong fantasy read, that isn't so far fetch from my own imagination. That makes me feel connected and comfortable with the world that the author created. It's a debut book that should expand into a good series. Themes include, obviously, fighting fear, dealing with sin, good over evil, greed vs giving, and finding out who you really are.
4.5 stars
My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My thoughts and opinions are my own, left of my own free will.
January 4, 2022
AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May I just say, thank you so much for writing this. :D
I never write reviews, but D.C. Marino, this was fantastic. I don't think I have shipped two characters harder than I did Thane and Lori... From the archeologist with atephobia, who could sense ruins, to the Lands Within, to the purenthas, this was absolutely brilliant! I can't wait for it to be published so that I can fangirl about it with all my friends!!!
May I just say, thank you so much for writing this. :D
I never write reviews, but D.C. Marino, this was fantastic. I don't think I have shipped two characters harder than I did Thane and Lori... From the archeologist with atephobia, who could sense ruins, to the Lands Within, to the purenthas, this was absolutely brilliant! I can't wait for it to be published so that I can fangirl about it with all my friends!!!
August 11, 2018
Kingdom of Ruins
Lori ends up in Fantasy land as I called it after following Thane( she know who he was at the time). This is a continuation series that leaves you wandering what will happen in the next book. Lori is an Archaeologist following in her family footsteps, mainly her grandpa.
This is book one of the series and a very good start. Definitely had some interesting characters and scenes that grabbed my attention. I am still trying to get into the genre of fantasy. I do love reading about artifacts and history of them. Definitely anyone that loves this Genre will love this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens next.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit, I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
Lori ends up in Fantasy land as I called it after following Thane( she know who he was at the time). This is a continuation series that leaves you wandering what will happen in the next book. Lori is an Archaeologist following in her family footsteps, mainly her grandpa.
This is book one of the series and a very good start. Definitely had some interesting characters and scenes that grabbed my attention. I am still trying to get into the genre of fantasy. I do love reading about artifacts and history of them. Definitely anyone that loves this Genre will love this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens next.
I received an complementary copy of the book from Celebrate Lit, I was not required to write an positive review. This is my own opinion.
August 12, 2018
"Kingdom of Ruins" by D.C. Marino is a fantasy that is a long read but I found it interesting.
This is a story of evil verses good.
This is a story of bringing the past into the future.
The main character Lori Brickland is an archaeologist who is afraid of ruins—of dead things.
When a pottery shard with a heartbeat is found, Lori knows she has to overcome her fear and find the why and how of it and is swept into a past that is being forgotten by it's people.
This book is filled with twists that really surprised me.
I think this book would make a really enjoyable movie. I think the action in this book would have fans setting on the edge of their seats and cheering for Lori and the other characters.
I am eagerly awaiting the other books and novellas in this series.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These are my opinions.
This is a story of evil verses good.
This is a story of bringing the past into the future.
The main character Lori Brickland is an archaeologist who is afraid of ruins—of dead things.
When a pottery shard with a heartbeat is found, Lori knows she has to overcome her fear and find the why and how of it and is swept into a past that is being forgotten by it's people.
This book is filled with twists that really surprised me.
I think this book would make a really enjoyable movie. I think the action in this book would have fans setting on the edge of their seats and cheering for Lori and the other characters.
I am eagerly awaiting the other books and novellas in this series.
I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These are my opinions.
August 5, 2018
Magic and fantasy rule the pages of this book. For someone that is usually saying no to such novels, I was curious about this book that hosted history being erased and a female character that I absolutely loved. Lori and I are very similar when touching objects it is easy to feel the life of a previous duty in it. Though obviously Lori experiences more magic than this mere mortal.
I really loved the realms, each hosting its own unique characters and obstacles. I loved the good vs. evil that pushes such novels to find the good in moments and places. For me this book really did show me that I could enjoy a fantasy novel, and that it wasn’t anything less than a delight to read. I would gladly pursue reading more in the series, if there are more.
I really loved the realms, each hosting its own unique characters and obstacles. I loved the good vs. evil that pushes such novels to find the good in moments and places. For me this book really did show me that I could enjoy a fantasy novel, and that it wasn’t anything less than a delight to read. I would gladly pursue reading more in the series, if there are more.
March 4, 2020
Where do I begin???
The idea that the trees (and nature in general) are full of emotion, history, and strength has my little anthropological heart SWOONING!! Lori is such a strong character and the world that she stumbles into is so magical that I just want to step inside and soak it all in! I only wish that we got to spend more time learning about Lori and her childhood at the beginning of the book. I feel like I was a bit lost trying to figure her out, and deciphering her motives was a whole other ballgame. However, because I am familiar with the author and her voice, it helped to use her personality and "instagram reading voice" to read the story to me. One thing's for sure: I can't wait for her audiobook to come out so that I can follow along!
The idea that the trees (and nature in general) are full of emotion, history, and strength has my little anthropological heart SWOONING!! Lori is such a strong character and the world that she stumbles into is so magical that I just want to step inside and soak it all in! I only wish that we got to spend more time learning about Lori and her childhood at the beginning of the book. I feel like I was a bit lost trying to figure her out, and deciphering her motives was a whole other ballgame. However, because I am familiar with the author and her voice, it helped to use her personality and "instagram reading voice" to read the story to me. One thing's for sure: I can't wait for her audiobook to come out so that I can follow along!
Read
December 20, 2020DNF @ Pg 113
Only Part I: Curiosity Read
I feel bad giving up on this read since DC Marino is adorable and appeared so excited about her debut novel but, like, it was boring to me.
Not even gunna front, I zoned out after chapter 3 and could not recall essential details at the end of Part I, I also fought the urge to nap twice. Wish the characters had a smidge more spice to them and that the narrative had a sense of urgency to help with the pacing. 🤷🏻♀️
Marino appears to have the narrative formatting
down, though, and refreshing plot ideas so there’s that.
Won’t be continuing this series.
Changing date read so that I'm not cheating on my already adjusted reading goal
Only Part I: Curiosity Read
I feel bad giving up on this read since DC Marino is adorable and appeared so excited about her debut novel but, like, it was boring to me.
Not even gunna front, I zoned out after chapter 3 and could not recall essential details at the end of Part I, I also fought the urge to nap twice. Wish the characters had a smidge more spice to them and that the narrative had a sense of urgency to help with the pacing. 🤷🏻♀️
Marino appears to have the narrative formatting
down, though, and refreshing plot ideas so there’s that.
Won’t be continuing this series.
Changing date read so that I'm not cheating on my already adjusted reading goal
July 30, 2018
Extraordinary, outstanding, memorable and exceptionally well-written. An intricate and unique storyline with well-drawn, intriguing characters in a highly inventive setting. This engrossing and textured narrative includes a thoughtful view of archeology and history-keeping that gives the reader pause for thought. A highly recommended must-read (even if, like me, you aren’t typically a reader of the fantasy genre)!
August 4, 2018
This is a very good book of fantasy. I loved the characters. They were all well developed. I loved the ending and look forward to reading the next adventures of Lori and Thane. It was fun to read about Lori finding out who she really is. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
July 1, 2019
Fantastic world building and vivid scenes!
August 10, 2018
My Review
Kingdom of Ruins is a fantasy type of story. Lori has the ability to feel the past by items she finds or places she goes. In this story you will travel to a strange world. Along the way there is plenty of secrets and mystery. It took me awhile to really get pulled into the story. But the story was well written with lots of detail . Disclaimer: I was given a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my own honest ones.
Kingdom of Ruins is a fantasy type of story. Lori has the ability to feel the past by items she finds or places she goes. In this story you will travel to a strange world. Along the way there is plenty of secrets and mystery. It took me awhile to really get pulled into the story. But the story was well written with lots of detail . Disclaimer: I was given a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my own honest ones.
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