What if chaos and evil had the physical power to destroy a kingdom? The kingdom of Wintercrest was once a land of peace, ruled by the ever steady King Carpathia. But one day, peace came to an end as an unknown darkness worked its way through the land, something so strong, even the great King could not stop. So, it was allowed to leave its vile mark wherever it went, twisting into the castle walls itself. Sixteen years after the shift to chaos, a young girl named Rayven Damyriah is plagued with visions and nightmares that shake her to her core as she prepares to attend the yearly festival to remember the dead. She soon finds herself and a few close friends on a fantastic and frightening journey to save her realm from the evil that is gripping it so tightly. Will she be able to stop the darkness before it devours all of Wintercrest?
Lianne Willowmoon's first book in her Wintercrest Chronicles is a sweeping fantasy set in a beautiful, magic-filled world full of quirky and unforgettable characters. Through her main character, Rayven Damyriah, Willowmoon crafts a strong, young female lead who is tested to her limits and shows courage and strength when faced with insurmountable odds. This book is a testament to the strength of women, and is a definite must read for young teen girls who are branching into the world of fantasy. Filled with adventure, romance, and personal character growth, Willowmoon's Wintercrest Chronicles is a brilliant addition to the growing genre of YA Fantasy. I can't wait to see where she takes this series, and the exciting adventures awaiting her heroine.
Right from the start I was hooked by the characters. The main character is a spunky smartass who let's love above all else rule her judgement and guide her actions. Her love interest is a soul searching Prince who is bent on making amends for a terrible wrong he caused her. They're love for each other though brief is strong and gets them through all obstacles together. From the halls of the palace as they learn to trust and fall in love again to the open road on their adventure, they're banter and worry for each other is endearing. I can't wait for the next book.