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Last of the Gifted #2
Water Sight
An evocative epic laced with myth and fact... Powerful phrasing, sensory descriptions... The Last of the Gifted is a classic. Ottawa Review of Books
Catrin can see the future in a drop of water. Her brother Hyw can take the shape of any bird or animal. Only their magical gifts can protect their people from the invading English forces determined to bring down the country.
The Prince of Wales needs three magical relics to rally the straggling Welsh forces. Catrin's gift of Second Sight may be the only hope for success-if she can outwit the English lord who wants to use her gift to capture the prince.
Her brother Hyw is on the run with the prince and the dwindling Welsh army. To escape the betrayal dogging their heels, Hyw takes refuge in his evolving gift-until shifting shapes puts his humanity in jeopardy.
With Hyw trapped in his magic and her betrothed in an English prison, Catrin faces an impossible save her brother, or save the man she loves.
This award-winning medieval fantasy series combines magic, mythology, and historical legends with the realities of 13th Century Wales.
Amazingly written, emotionally driven, and fantasy-fueled... a must-read for fans of the historical fiction/fantasy genres... 10 out of 10. Anthony Avina
Weaving history with romance and fantasy... this is a solid novel worthy of the attention of a very broad audience. Top Shelf
Well-written... Water Sight touches on historical events with the added taste of fantasy elements... CM Reviews
A story sure to ignite the hearts of modern readers... Dani�le Cybulskie, Author, Life in Medieval Europe
Catrin can see the future in a drop of water. Her brother Hyw can take the shape of any bird or animal. Only their magical gifts can protect their people from the invading English forces determined to bring down the country.
The Prince of Wales needs three magical relics to rally the straggling Welsh forces. Catrin's gift of Second Sight may be the only hope for success-if she can outwit the English lord who wants to use her gift to capture the prince.
Her brother Hyw is on the run with the prince and the dwindling Welsh army. To escape the betrayal dogging their heels, Hyw takes refuge in his evolving gift-until shifting shapes puts his humanity in jeopardy.
With Hyw trapped in his magic and her betrothed in an English prison, Catrin faces an impossible save her brother, or save the man she loves.
This award-winning medieval fantasy series combines magic, mythology, and historical legends with the realities of 13th Century Wales.
Amazingly written, emotionally driven, and fantasy-fueled... a must-read for fans of the historical fiction/fantasy genres... 10 out of 10. Anthony Avina
Weaving history with romance and fantasy... this is a solid novel worthy of the attention of a very broad audience. Top Shelf
Well-written... Water Sight touches on historical events with the added taste of fantasy elements... CM Reviews
A story sure to ignite the hearts of modern readers... Dani�le Cybulskie, Author, Life in Medieval Europe
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 23, 2020
16 people want to read
About the author
Marie Powell
51 books38 followersMarie Powell’s castle-hopping across North Wales to explore her family roots resulted in her YA historical fantasy Last of the Gifted, with Spirit Sight (Book 1) and Water Sight (Book 2) to date. Among other degrees, she holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing from the University of BC. Marie lives on Treaty 4 land in Regina, Saskatchewan, and her writing workshops are popular across the region.
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June 24, 2021
Before I start the review, I want you to keep this in mind: BUY THIS BOOK
Seriously. BUY THIS BOOK, and the previous one.
Why? Because It’s SO FREAKING AMAZING, that you should actually panic. Marie Powell K I L L E D I T! DAMN! I could not let this book go, not even after 150 pages read on the first stretch. It’s THAT powerful, and magnetic.
Now, the review:
OK! Marie Powell is already a VERY appreciated house writer, because this is the SECOND book of hers that we review.
In fact, this is the follow-up book for the amazingly entertaining, and extremely well-written book “The last of the gifted – Spirited Sight“, that received a 8.4/10 rating, and currently holds the title of having the BEST cover of the year.
Talking about covers, Water Sight’s cover is just as sublime as the previous book’s. Surely we will have a tie because this cover is a BANGER! I mean, look at it! And let us not forget the book design that helps to make these books even more special. Mad props to Callum Jagger and Adin Nelson at Amaya Editing Inc. Excellent job guys.
Without a second to spare, Marie Powell grabs our attention and swiftly throws us back into this fantastic world as if we read the last sentence of the last book 10 seconds ago. We can at once familiarize ourselves again with the rocky mountains, the fog that covered the retreat of our friends and the looming dread of being discovered by the English army fuelled with bloodlust. just below the mountains. We don’t have to wait for long before action kicks in again, and all the elements of fantasy return to the seemingly normal quest of Cat, Hyw, Rhys, and Llywelyn and Bran.
She “comes at us” in full force, holds our breaths demanding full, undivided attention towards her story, that runs towards its happenings and we have no other choice but to try to keep pace with it. Now, don’t get me wrong, this is not a book that was hastily written, oh no, this was thought-out TO THE DETAIL, to the comma.
Our beloved characters pass through some VERY distressing times and hope is the only thing that keeps them going, because, and surely, they can find a way out, as it always happens in the books, right? Well… not quite, and that’s the thing that makes this book great! The uncertainty of war, on a weakened country against a great foe. The betrayals, the spies, the strategies, the deaths, the emotional toll on our characters, many of them to be no more, as death and pain is sprayed all around, mercilessly.
It’s amazing how Mary Powell can keep us interested in the book with so many hopeless and grim happenings while making us happy, not sadistically, of course, but entertained in a way that we want to know more, and more, and more!
Marie Powell uses the abilities of Cat to keep us even more grounded with and to the book because although Cat has visions that “foretell” the future, we, as readers cannot “predict” what will happen next, and this is how the author keeps us glued to this book, by the tension of expectation, uncertainty, thriller and oh, the dire and unfortunate happenings, its consequences and implications! It’s BEAUTIFUL, from start to finish.
If Spirited Sight is a hard slap, Water Sight is a shotgun blast to the face with heart-warming, and heart breaking relationships, and I must say, the most awesome gay couple EVER(!) that makes this romance PERFECT for Pride-month. LOVED IT!!!!!!! Not only for the fact that Marie Powell had the guts to put such a dynamic on the book but because she did so without “ruffling feathers”, and with quite grace and acceptance towards it. It’s beautiful and that gained EXTRA points for the book. VERY well done!!!
Strong female characters, strong male characters that not even once “fell out of grace”, quite frankly, I can not remember a male character that will annoy the reader with a “macho” thing, not even the villains(!) something exceeding professional, classy, and mature from Marie Powell. Excellent job in the character construction and development sector of the book. Amazing.
Water Sight is a multi-layered, deeply intertwined novel that BEGS for a follow-up book, a follow-up that we also want “not” to have due to the “unorthodox”, and yet quite satisfying, ending that she gave us. We are left torn between another GREAT book, and the fact that the ending seemed… fitting after all that they have gone through, because there is still MUCH more to be explored here.
Marie Powell is an author that we as writers should take example from, and as readers, to look out and appreciate more.
Pros:
EXCELLENT narrative
EXCELLENT pace
EXCELLENT plot
An ending that fit and left us longing for more
Great descriptive ability, both of characters, their emotions, and the scenes
Fluid wording throughout the book that facilitated reading a LOT. You won’t have to stop and think
Great character development
Realistic approach towards war happenings, the character reactions according to their roles and motives
Vivid imagery painted on the reader’s mind
Solid weight to the story and the feeling throughout by a consistent narrative and “mood”
Cons:
Zero. Zilch. Nada. Not even one. Awesome book
Lesson from the book: “You cannot avoid pain”
Cover Score: 10/10
Final Score: 9.1/10
Original review @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
Seriously. BUY THIS BOOK, and the previous one.
Why? Because It’s SO FREAKING AMAZING, that you should actually panic. Marie Powell K I L L E D I T! DAMN! I could not let this book go, not even after 150 pages read on the first stretch. It’s THAT powerful, and magnetic.
Now, the review:
OK! Marie Powell is already a VERY appreciated house writer, because this is the SECOND book of hers that we review.
In fact, this is the follow-up book for the amazingly entertaining, and extremely well-written book “The last of the gifted – Spirited Sight“, that received a 8.4/10 rating, and currently holds the title of having the BEST cover of the year.
Talking about covers, Water Sight’s cover is just as sublime as the previous book’s. Surely we will have a tie because this cover is a BANGER! I mean, look at it! And let us not forget the book design that helps to make these books even more special. Mad props to Callum Jagger and Adin Nelson at Amaya Editing Inc. Excellent job guys.
Without a second to spare, Marie Powell grabs our attention and swiftly throws us back into this fantastic world as if we read the last sentence of the last book 10 seconds ago. We can at once familiarize ourselves again with the rocky mountains, the fog that covered the retreat of our friends and the looming dread of being discovered by the English army fuelled with bloodlust. just below the mountains. We don’t have to wait for long before action kicks in again, and all the elements of fantasy return to the seemingly normal quest of Cat, Hyw, Rhys, and Llywelyn and Bran.
She “comes at us” in full force, holds our breaths demanding full, undivided attention towards her story, that runs towards its happenings and we have no other choice but to try to keep pace with it. Now, don’t get me wrong, this is not a book that was hastily written, oh no, this was thought-out TO THE DETAIL, to the comma.
Our beloved characters pass through some VERY distressing times and hope is the only thing that keeps them going, because, and surely, they can find a way out, as it always happens in the books, right? Well… not quite, and that’s the thing that makes this book great! The uncertainty of war, on a weakened country against a great foe. The betrayals, the spies, the strategies, the deaths, the emotional toll on our characters, many of them to be no more, as death and pain is sprayed all around, mercilessly.
It’s amazing how Mary Powell can keep us interested in the book with so many hopeless and grim happenings while making us happy, not sadistically, of course, but entertained in a way that we want to know more, and more, and more!
Marie Powell uses the abilities of Cat to keep us even more grounded with and to the book because although Cat has visions that “foretell” the future, we, as readers cannot “predict” what will happen next, and this is how the author keeps us glued to this book, by the tension of expectation, uncertainty, thriller and oh, the dire and unfortunate happenings, its consequences and implications! It’s BEAUTIFUL, from start to finish.
If Spirited Sight is a hard slap, Water Sight is a shotgun blast to the face with heart-warming, and heart breaking relationships, and I must say, the most awesome gay couple EVER(!) that makes this romance PERFECT for Pride-month. LOVED IT!!!!!!! Not only for the fact that Marie Powell had the guts to put such a dynamic on the book but because she did so without “ruffling feathers”, and with quite grace and acceptance towards it. It’s beautiful and that gained EXTRA points for the book. VERY well done!!!
Strong female characters, strong male characters that not even once “fell out of grace”, quite frankly, I can not remember a male character that will annoy the reader with a “macho” thing, not even the villains(!) something exceeding professional, classy, and mature from Marie Powell. Excellent job in the character construction and development sector of the book. Amazing.
Water Sight is a multi-layered, deeply intertwined novel that BEGS for a follow-up book, a follow-up that we also want “not” to have due to the “unorthodox”, and yet quite satisfying, ending that she gave us. We are left torn between another GREAT book, and the fact that the ending seemed… fitting after all that they have gone through, because there is still MUCH more to be explored here.
Marie Powell is an author that we as writers should take example from, and as readers, to look out and appreciate more.
Pros:
EXCELLENT narrative
EXCELLENT pace
EXCELLENT plot
An ending that fit and left us longing for more
Great descriptive ability, both of characters, their emotions, and the scenes
Fluid wording throughout the book that facilitated reading a LOT. You won’t have to stop and think
Great character development
Realistic approach towards war happenings, the character reactions according to their roles and motives
Vivid imagery painted on the reader’s mind
Solid weight to the story and the feeling throughout by a consistent narrative and “mood”
Cons:
Zero. Zilch. Nada. Not even one. Awesome book
Lesson from the book: “You cannot avoid pain”
Cover Score: 10/10
Final Score: 9.1/10
Original review @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
December 4, 2020
Fantasy and mythology and history – another triumph!
Canadian author Marie Powell earned her Maters degree in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia and has written forty children’s books as well as short stories and poetry in literary magazines. As a professional writer and editor, she offers writing workshops, and teaches Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She continues her interest in the young adult fantasy genre with WATER SIGHT, the second volume of her LAST OF THE GIFTED series.
Having established her cast of characters in Book 1, Marie recaps the important players in a Character Guide, defining the cast as well as providing a very useful pronunciation guide for the Welsh names, offering the sense of the author’s respect for her young adult reading audience. The author’s choice to explore the history of Wales is also an added benefit to the library of medieval history.
Continuing her established eloquent writing style, weaving history with romance and fantasy, this volume opens in North Wales, April 1283 –‘Mist circled the mountain like a massive fist. Squinting upward, Cat could barely make out the legendary giant’s seat near the top of Cadair Idris. The fog surrounded her, obscuring Rhys who climbed behind her, but she drew is around her like a cloak. They needed stealth. Below them, the valley was full of English mercenaries, hunting for Welsh heads. It didn’t matter that only a handful of warriors remained. Women, children, any of the would satisfy the wretched king….’ For those readers who have yet to enjoy Book 1, fear not – the background is well incorporated in the first chapters of this new book.
The author provides a terse breakdown of the plot: ‘Catrin can see the future in a drop of water. Her brother Hyw can take the shape of any bird or animal. Only their magic can thwart the invading English forces determined to bring down the country. The Prince of Wales needs three magical relics to rally the straggling Welsh forces. Catrin’s gift of Second Sight may be the only hope for success—if she can outwit the English lord who wants to use her gift to capture the prince. Her brother Hyw is on the run with the prince and the dwindling Welsh army. To escape the betrayal dogging their heels, Hyw takes refuge in his evolving gift—until shifting shapes puts his humanity in jeopardy. With Hyw trapped in his magic and her betrothed in an English jail, Catrin faces an impossible choice: save her brother, or save the man she loves.’
Designating the novel as a Young Adult book most assuredly should not deter readers beyond that range of age: this is a solid novel worthy of the attention of a very broad audience. Marie Powell once again proves she is a new voice worthy of note. Highly recommended.
Canadian author Marie Powell earned her Maters degree in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia and has written forty children’s books as well as short stories and poetry in literary magazines. As a professional writer and editor, she offers writing workshops, and teaches Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She continues her interest in the young adult fantasy genre with WATER SIGHT, the second volume of her LAST OF THE GIFTED series.
Having established her cast of characters in Book 1, Marie recaps the important players in a Character Guide, defining the cast as well as providing a very useful pronunciation guide for the Welsh names, offering the sense of the author’s respect for her young adult reading audience. The author’s choice to explore the history of Wales is also an added benefit to the library of medieval history.
Continuing her established eloquent writing style, weaving history with romance and fantasy, this volume opens in North Wales, April 1283 –‘Mist circled the mountain like a massive fist. Squinting upward, Cat could barely make out the legendary giant’s seat near the top of Cadair Idris. The fog surrounded her, obscuring Rhys who climbed behind her, but she drew is around her like a cloak. They needed stealth. Below them, the valley was full of English mercenaries, hunting for Welsh heads. It didn’t matter that only a handful of warriors remained. Women, children, any of the would satisfy the wretched king….’ For those readers who have yet to enjoy Book 1, fear not – the background is well incorporated in the first chapters of this new book.
The author provides a terse breakdown of the plot: ‘Catrin can see the future in a drop of water. Her brother Hyw can take the shape of any bird or animal. Only their magic can thwart the invading English forces determined to bring down the country. The Prince of Wales needs three magical relics to rally the straggling Welsh forces. Catrin’s gift of Second Sight may be the only hope for success—if she can outwit the English lord who wants to use her gift to capture the prince. Her brother Hyw is on the run with the prince and the dwindling Welsh army. To escape the betrayal dogging their heels, Hyw takes refuge in his evolving gift—until shifting shapes puts his humanity in jeopardy. With Hyw trapped in his magic and her betrothed in an English jail, Catrin faces an impossible choice: save her brother, or save the man she loves.’
Designating the novel as a Young Adult book most assuredly should not deter readers beyond that range of age: this is a solid novel worthy of the attention of a very broad audience. Marie Powell once again proves she is a new voice worthy of note. Highly recommended.
April 3, 2021
An evocative epic laced with myth and fact, Water Sight completes the Last of the Gifted Series. In the first book, Spirit Sight, we find Cymru (Wales) hovering on the eve of destruction as the English king, Edward 1, better known as Longshanks, sends his armies railing against the native Celts. Fans of Braveheart, note that Longshanks practiced his brutal conquest techniques on the Welsh before turning his eye northward to Scotland and tangling with William Wallace.
There are things I particularly appreciate about this book.
The interweaving dual storylines are fluidly crafted. As in Book One, the story is narrated by two protagonists: Hyw (16) and Catrin (14)—a brother and sister with extraordinary gifts. As the war with the English builds, so do their gifts and their need to use them. Hyw is a shape shifter; Cat a spiritual healer able to lead captive spirits home to their eternal rest in Garth Celyn, a mystical place as legendary as faerie.
Cat shines in this story. Her quest is to reclaim the three relics that once belonged to the murdered Llywelyn — The Crown of Arthur, the Coronet of Wales, and Y Groes Naid (the Cross of Neith) — and give them to his younger brother, Prince Dafydd in order to rally the people. Though she is in love and betrothed to Rhys, for the most part Cat’s on her own as Rhys is working to protect Dafydd.
Powell’s lyrical writing has a formal tone flecked with Medieval and Old Welsh Gaelic phrases in such a way that they’re contextually definable. The language reflects the culture and reminds us that what was once taken by the English is now alive again. Powerful phrasing, sensory descriptions, and mythical references abound.
There are time-ticking constraints. It’s May 1283 when the story begins and they must rally the people by Autumn Equinox, and win by Nos Galan Gaeaf (Halloween.) When the veils are lowest between the worlds, Llywelyn must leave Hyw’s body, where his spirit has been housed since his murder, and join his Princess Eleanor and the ancestors in Garth Celyn. To be defeated means the soul of the legendary Prince of Wales will be lost forever.
Though the atmosphere is violent, vicious, and grave, Powell finds ways to add comic relief through Hyw’s hijinks as he shapeshifts into various animals: a hawk, a horse, a jackdaw, a mouse, a sparrow, an eagle. His transformations grow more rapid as the stakes rise and his responses are comical.
The romance is true and transcends time. Cat and Rhys are destined; while Hyw’s love for James, a boy he grew up with, is sweet, sensitive, and accepted by the culture. “We are meant to be together, Hyw. If you will stay a hawk, then I will become a falconer. But if you would be a man, then come back to me.” Indeed, as they walk through the crowds holding hands, we can only hope for them.
This is a series for young adults and I recommend it to teachers and librarians. The characters face contemporary struggles in an historic setting. The mingling of myth, magic, and adventure will appeal to middle grade and high school students, but also their parents. The Last of the Gifted is a classic.
There are things I particularly appreciate about this book.
The interweaving dual storylines are fluidly crafted. As in Book One, the story is narrated by two protagonists: Hyw (16) and Catrin (14)—a brother and sister with extraordinary gifts. As the war with the English builds, so do their gifts and their need to use them. Hyw is a shape shifter; Cat a spiritual healer able to lead captive spirits home to their eternal rest in Garth Celyn, a mystical place as legendary as faerie.
Cat shines in this story. Her quest is to reclaim the three relics that once belonged to the murdered Llywelyn — The Crown of Arthur, the Coronet of Wales, and Y Groes Naid (the Cross of Neith) — and give them to his younger brother, Prince Dafydd in order to rally the people. Though she is in love and betrothed to Rhys, for the most part Cat’s on her own as Rhys is working to protect Dafydd.
Powell’s lyrical writing has a formal tone flecked with Medieval and Old Welsh Gaelic phrases in such a way that they’re contextually definable. The language reflects the culture and reminds us that what was once taken by the English is now alive again. Powerful phrasing, sensory descriptions, and mythical references abound.
There are time-ticking constraints. It’s May 1283 when the story begins and they must rally the people by Autumn Equinox, and win by Nos Galan Gaeaf (Halloween.) When the veils are lowest between the worlds, Llywelyn must leave Hyw’s body, where his spirit has been housed since his murder, and join his Princess Eleanor and the ancestors in Garth Celyn. To be defeated means the soul of the legendary Prince of Wales will be lost forever.
Though the atmosphere is violent, vicious, and grave, Powell finds ways to add comic relief through Hyw’s hijinks as he shapeshifts into various animals: a hawk, a horse, a jackdaw, a mouse, a sparrow, an eagle. His transformations grow more rapid as the stakes rise and his responses are comical.
The romance is true and transcends time. Cat and Rhys are destined; while Hyw’s love for James, a boy he grew up with, is sweet, sensitive, and accepted by the culture. “We are meant to be together, Hyw. If you will stay a hawk, then I will become a falconer. But if you would be a man, then come back to me.” Indeed, as they walk through the crowds holding hands, we can only hope for them.
This is a series for young adults and I recommend it to teachers and librarians. The characters face contemporary struggles in an historic setting. The mingling of myth, magic, and adventure will appeal to middle grade and high school students, but also their parents. The Last of the Gifted is a classic.
December 4, 2021
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. This is the second book in this duo and it picks up where the second one let off. Cat is struggling to use her gifts to save her people. She wants to help her brother and the man that she loves. Hyw is trying to hide in his ability to change shape but it is starting to take his humanity away. The author does a wonderful job of mixing the historical side with the fantasy side. The world is well-detailed and draws the reader into the adventure. It is powerful and moving in the way things are described and makes me long for more.
June 19, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed Water Sight, book 2 in Marie Powell's Last of the Gifted series. Water Sight picks up where book one, Spirit Sight, ends. The Welsh are on the run from the British invaders and Cat and Hyw must use their gifts of second sight and shape-shifting to help their countrymen. Their gifts grow as the danger grows. Historical facts and mythology are intricately woven together in these books, though the history never overwhelms the storyline. I highly recommend this series!
June 5, 2021
My review of this book appears in Historical Novels Review issue 96 (May 2021):
Powell’s Last of the Gifted series covers a slice of history already immortalized in Sharon Kay Penman’s Welsh Trilogy and Edith Pargeter’s Brothers of Gwynedd Quartet (both of which she lists as inspirations). In this YA treatment of 13th-century Welsh history, Powell relates the end of the reign of “Llywelyn the Last” and the waning days of Wales’s independence through the eyes of a gifted brother and sister, Hyw and Cat. The teens joined forces in the first volume of the series, Spirit Sight, to channel the spirit of the recently-assassinated Prince Llywelyn and resist the attempts by England’s king, Edward I, to claim the rich Welsh landscape for himself. The second volume picks up as Hyw, a shape-shifter, and Cat, an avatar of the prophetic Morrigan of Celtic myth, try to balance their otherworldly powers with their loyalty to their family and friends. Cat is newly betrothed, and Hyw is struggling to master his Gift; Wales is fragmenting under the English invasion. The dual narratives make for a fast-paced adventure as the English and Welsh factions chase each other around the picturesque mountains and castles of the myth-haunted land that Powell obviously loves.
The series clearly intends to introduce teen readers to the complexities of Welsh mythos, culture, and history, and Powell’s research is front and center. Characterization suffers for this a bit; the need to turn frequently to the character list and glossary might discourage some readers from being invested in the relationships that drive Cat and Hyw to ever more audacious acts of bravery. The Welsh are depicted as uniformly enlightened and humane, which somewhat glosses over the real-life ferocity of life in the borderlands. In particular, the universal approval they express about Hyw’s romantic feelings for his English foster-brother James seems a bit modern, no matter how welcome it is to see such representation in YA historical settings.
Powell’s Last of the Gifted series covers a slice of history already immortalized in Sharon Kay Penman’s Welsh Trilogy and Edith Pargeter’s Brothers of Gwynedd Quartet (both of which she lists as inspirations). In this YA treatment of 13th-century Welsh history, Powell relates the end of the reign of “Llywelyn the Last” and the waning days of Wales’s independence through the eyes of a gifted brother and sister, Hyw and Cat. The teens joined forces in the first volume of the series, Spirit Sight, to channel the spirit of the recently-assassinated Prince Llywelyn and resist the attempts by England’s king, Edward I, to claim the rich Welsh landscape for himself. The second volume picks up as Hyw, a shape-shifter, and Cat, an avatar of the prophetic Morrigan of Celtic myth, try to balance their otherworldly powers with their loyalty to their family and friends. Cat is newly betrothed, and Hyw is struggling to master his Gift; Wales is fragmenting under the English invasion. The dual narratives make for a fast-paced adventure as the English and Welsh factions chase each other around the picturesque mountains and castles of the myth-haunted land that Powell obviously loves.
The series clearly intends to introduce teen readers to the complexities of Welsh mythos, culture, and history, and Powell’s research is front and center. Characterization suffers for this a bit; the need to turn frequently to the character list and glossary might discourage some readers from being invested in the relationships that drive Cat and Hyw to ever more audacious acts of bravery. The Welsh are depicted as uniformly enlightened and humane, which somewhat glosses over the real-life ferocity of life in the borderlands. In particular, the universal approval they express about Hyw’s romantic feelings for his English foster-brother James seems a bit modern, no matter how welcome it is to see such representation in YA historical settings.
February 25, 2021
Set shortly after he events of Spirit Sight, the story of Cat and Hwyn continues, following them as the English have seemingly won. Edward I (Longshanks) has defeated Prince Gwynedd and the remainder of the princes and their families are on the run. With Cat and her beloved Rhys taken by the English, Cat must play a delicate game of deception, trying to warn her Welsh allies while not endangering her betrothed who is deemed a traitor to the eyes of his countrymen.
Hwyn, meanwhile, is realizing the true cost of his powers and losing more and more of himself after every transformation.
I think those who like both historical and fantasy fiction can find something to enjoy in this series, and neither is so exclusive that it’s going to upset fans of one but not the other. There are historical persons and events, but the story mostly centers on a brother-sister and their allies, people who history would have forgotten about. The supernatural elements are rigid and would be something you would expect out of mythology or a low-fantasy setting. There aren’t a ton of mythical creatures lurking under every mushroom.
Overall, I’d say this plot wasn’t as exciting as the first book but was a sensible follow-up story, dealing with the aftermath of loss and trying to find hope after a massive defeat. A big part of the story is the transfer of relics, items that would rally the people to their successor prince, and give them reason to fight back against the English. I don’t want to go too much into spoiler territory, but let’s just say it’s not really the relics that give people hope. I wouldn’t say it’s a classic, happy ending, it’s one full of hope in spite of dire circumstances.
Hwyn, meanwhile, is realizing the true cost of his powers and losing more and more of himself after every transformation.
I think those who like both historical and fantasy fiction can find something to enjoy in this series, and neither is so exclusive that it’s going to upset fans of one but not the other. There are historical persons and events, but the story mostly centers on a brother-sister and their allies, people who history would have forgotten about. The supernatural elements are rigid and would be something you would expect out of mythology or a low-fantasy setting. There aren’t a ton of mythical creatures lurking under every mushroom.
Overall, I’d say this plot wasn’t as exciting as the first book but was a sensible follow-up story, dealing with the aftermath of loss and trying to find hope after a massive defeat. A big part of the story is the transfer of relics, items that would rally the people to their successor prince, and give them reason to fight back against the English. I don’t want to go too much into spoiler territory, but let’s just say it’s not really the relics that give people hope. I wouldn’t say it’s a classic, happy ending, it’s one full of hope in spite of dire circumstances.
December 17, 2020
The Review
An incredible read, author Marie Powell showcases a strong mastery of the fantasy/historical fiction style storytelling that has become so popular over the years. The protagonists, brother and sister Hyw and Cat, are well rounded, and the author does an amazing job of highlighting the well-rounded nature of each hero, flaws and all.
The emotional core of the story is Cat’s struggle to not only save her people but protect her brother and the man she loves all at the same time while helping to fight off the English invaders led by King Edward. The amount of history the author was able to incorporate into the narrative was amazing. As a history buff, it was incredible to learn more about the era before Wales officially became part of England, when revolts were fought to maintain their independence and kingdom. The fantasy elements feel natural as the story progresses, as each hero’s power leads to difficult choices that many readers will be able to identify with.
The Verdict
An amazingly written, emotionally driven, and fantasy-fueled read, author Marie Powell’s second entry into the Last of the Gifted series, “Water Sight”, is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction/fantasy genres. Action-packed and evenly paced, this is the perfect end of 2020 fantasy book for all readers, but especially fans of the YA genre. Be sure to grab your copy today!
An incredible read, author Marie Powell showcases a strong mastery of the fantasy/historical fiction style storytelling that has become so popular over the years. The protagonists, brother and sister Hyw and Cat, are well rounded, and the author does an amazing job of highlighting the well-rounded nature of each hero, flaws and all.
The emotional core of the story is Cat’s struggle to not only save her people but protect her brother and the man she loves all at the same time while helping to fight off the English invaders led by King Edward. The amount of history the author was able to incorporate into the narrative was amazing. As a history buff, it was incredible to learn more about the era before Wales officially became part of England, when revolts were fought to maintain their independence and kingdom. The fantasy elements feel natural as the story progresses, as each hero’s power leads to difficult choices that many readers will be able to identify with.
The Verdict
An amazingly written, emotionally driven, and fantasy-fueled read, author Marie Powell’s second entry into the Last of the Gifted series, “Water Sight”, is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction/fantasy genres. Action-packed and evenly paced, this is the perfect end of 2020 fantasy book for all readers, but especially fans of the YA genre. Be sure to grab your copy today!
December 2, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. When I could convince myself to put down this book, I was thinking about what might happen next while I was going about my day. Whether the siblings Catrin and Hyw are together or apart they’re having harrowing adventures impacting the fate of their friends, family, and, ultimately, Wales. They each learn more about the gifts handed down through the generations to them and it’s interesting to watch them push themselves further than they thought possible. A lively read without the heaviness that you so often expect with war-torn stories. I enjoyed every moment.
November 27, 2020
Water Sight is so much more than the long-awaited sequel to Spirit Sight. In Book 2 of The Last of the Gifted series, Marie Powell captures the desperate plight of embattled 13th century Wales as siblings Hwy and Cat plumb deep within their gifts to preserve those whom they love and their way of life against an implacable, genocidal enemy. Young fans of super heroes need look no further for protagonists worth emulating.
December 1, 2020
With memorial characters who have intriguing magical gifts, this adventure sweeps the reader through the craggy landscape and castles of Wales in 1200. Powell is a masterful storyteller.
I was able to read an advanced reader copy. I am under no obligation to review this novel, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it highly.
I was able to read an advanced reader copy. I am under no obligation to review this novel, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it highly.
November 26, 2021
What a treat to read Marie Powell's Water Sight! This gripping fantasy is meticulously researched, and its freshly vivid descriptions draw the reader in so closely that we are right there in the scene as Cat and her brother Hyw desperately use their magical gifts to try to help their people escape from the ever-intensifying attacks from the English invaders.
Nothing is safe; nothing is certain. These magical gifts are sometimes unruly and cannot be counted upon as the risk and drama ever-intensify, placing the characters in ever-greater danger as close allies and then even loved ones fall to English swords. Cat's and Hyw's gifts carry distinct dangers as well, and answers are never clear: great risks are taken, and sometimes lead only to greater danger. Cat's gift of Second Sight can't always be summoned, and it sometimes doesn't provide necessary clues. And might Hyw's gift of shapeshifting overtake his humanity completely, thus permanently condemning him to life as an animal? We see the complex inter-weavings of human connections - of love, and of loyalty, with many courageous actions taken by almost every character we get to know....whether alive, or even dwelling within another character, unable to yet make his way to the afterlife.
In the beginning, I found that the detailed, formal dialogue occasionally slowed the pace - but soon after that, I was completely drawn into this magnificent story. A beautiful weaving of history, legend and magic, with deeply human (and sometimes not?) principal characters. Brilliantly done, Marie Powell!
Nothing is safe; nothing is certain. These magical gifts are sometimes unruly and cannot be counted upon as the risk and drama ever-intensify, placing the characters in ever-greater danger as close allies and then even loved ones fall to English swords. Cat's and Hyw's gifts carry distinct dangers as well, and answers are never clear: great risks are taken, and sometimes lead only to greater danger. Cat's gift of Second Sight can't always be summoned, and it sometimes doesn't provide necessary clues. And might Hyw's gift of shapeshifting overtake his humanity completely, thus permanently condemning him to life as an animal? We see the complex inter-weavings of human connections - of love, and of loyalty, with many courageous actions taken by almost every character we get to know....whether alive, or even dwelling within another character, unable to yet make his way to the afterlife.
In the beginning, I found that the detailed, formal dialogue occasionally slowed the pace - but soon after that, I was completely drawn into this magnificent story. A beautiful weaving of history, legend and magic, with deeply human (and sometimes not?) principal characters. Brilliantly done, Marie Powell!
January 31, 2022
I received a free audiobook copy for an honest review
The effort that Marie Powell puts into her research if the Welsh language, history and the era itself is truly astounding.
Thus story carries on from Spirit Sight and flows beautifully with a fantastic narrator who reads so well I was able to envision the read smoothly in my mind.
The character development is brilliant and the trauma they experience is delivered so well as well as the good experiences.
SPOILER ALERT
When Hyw's mentor dies it was THE MOST heart wrenching thing I've ever listened to. I saw the scene playing out, and my heart aches when Hyw, as a hawk, refusing to leave his side, and his grief causing him to lose himself was so beautifully described. I was nearly brought to tears!
The only thing that needs work is the occasional noise in the background, with the script paper rustling occasionally but it wasn't too much of a distraction, otherwise it would get 5* for sure.
The narrator did a fantastic job and reading outloud can be so tricky I just wanted to lift her up and say well done, you did an excellent job!!
The effort that Marie Powell puts into her research if the Welsh language, history and the era itself is truly astounding.
Thus story carries on from Spirit Sight and flows beautifully with a fantastic narrator who reads so well I was able to envision the read smoothly in my mind.
The character development is brilliant and the trauma they experience is delivered so well as well as the good experiences.
SPOILER ALERT
When Hyw's mentor dies it was THE MOST heart wrenching thing I've ever listened to. I saw the scene playing out, and my heart aches when Hyw, as a hawk, refusing to leave his side, and his grief causing him to lose himself was so beautifully described. I was nearly brought to tears!
The only thing that needs work is the occasional noise in the background, with the script paper rustling occasionally but it wasn't too much of a distraction, otherwise it would get 5* for sure.
The narrator did a fantastic job and reading outloud can be so tricky I just wanted to lift her up and say well done, you did an excellent job!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2023
The final book in the Last of the Gifted series continues the story of Hyw and Catrin as they use the gifts to help their Welsh people. Hyw carries the spirit of Prince Lleywelyn and has the gift of seeing through the of animals and eventually shape-changing to those animals. Catrin has visions of the future when she gazes into water. The brother and sister are in a race against time and the English King's forces to save their loved ones. A fast-paced historical fantasy that sweeps the reader along with the characters. A great read.
January 15, 2023
Water Sight is an historical novel set in the 1200s in England. It's the proud Welsh against the relentless English. I read Spirit Sight, the first book in this duo and thoroughly enjoyed it. Water Sight takes up where the first book left off. The chapters alternate betwen the two main characters, Hyw and Cat, brother and sister and the last of their people with magical gifts. But this story still focuses more on Cat. One aspect of the story I lovd is that Marie Powell masterfully depicts the two young heros fully: their often dangerous flaws with their heroism. Another wonderful aspect is Powell's impressive worldbuilding. I apprecite the mixed ending of the story which will resonate for anyone living in our time. This is a truly engaging and action packed story on its own merit and it serves as a valuable lesson for out times. Don't forget to read the backmatter that not only includes fascinating facts but also speaks to the thorough reasearch that went into this epic tale.
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