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Earth's Pendulum #1
Back from Chaos
Battle and bloodshed have upset the Balance, crippling the goddess Earth’s power to prevent further chaos. Unless it is restored more disasters will famines, plagues, more unrest and war.Four Lord Gaelen of Bargia, Klast, his loyal spy and assassin, Lady Marja of Catania and her maid Brensa. Each is unaware of the roles they must play in restoring that Balance.Most important of these is Klast. It is he who must rescue the kidnapped maid, he who must unmask and bring to justice the traitor who threatens all their lives. It is also he who must deal with the scars from his tormented and abused past before he can accept the final part he must play in Earth’s recovery. But he is a most reluctant and unlikely hero and time is short.Bloodshed cripples the godess’s power. Four chosen must restore it. Klast, assassin and spy, unlikeliest of heroes, damaged by his tormented past, must recue a maid and bring a traitor to justice, unaware of the role he is destined to play and why his connection to her is essential. Time is short.
- GenresFantasy
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2009
13 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
December 11, 2019
This is the first work of Yvonne Hertzberger I have read, but it will not be my last. I picked up the free read from Amazon without knowing what to expect, and was pulled in from the opening pages. Hertzberger writes with an uncommon elegance, lending her story important details without weighing it down in extraneous prose. The pace is close to perfect, and the narrative moves its reader along without effort. Despite the simplicity of the story, I was wholly absorbed and rapidly turning pages from short chapter to chapter. Though this is the first book in her "Earth’s Pendulum" series, it doesn’t leave you hanging but leaves you wanting more.
Perhaps that’s the thing. Hertzberger introduces characters easy to care for, while at the same time invites her reader into a modern medieval world she won’t want to leave. I think, however, the most successful aspect of this story is the romance. The compassion and attraction between the characters is deeply-rooted, and invokes a visceral reaction. I have admitted elsewhere that I am drawn to moments of literary romance, and for me, it’s not something a writer can fake. I think when done well, the reader is moved by the characters and the feelings they express for one another. Again, this can’t be put on. Like Rochester’s and Jane’s repartee, where love bleeds from the seams despite sardonic quips, deft flirtations and parries, Hertzberger’s dialogue channels romance and the romantic on every level. Even her descriptions of food serve to romanticize the atmosphere as a complement to her tightly-woven narrative. A great writer can pull this off without effort, and for me, Hertzberger is in that class.
There’s everything to love about "Back From Chaos" … I couldn’t put it down.
Perhaps that’s the thing. Hertzberger introduces characters easy to care for, while at the same time invites her reader into a modern medieval world she won’t want to leave. I think, however, the most successful aspect of this story is the romance. The compassion and attraction between the characters is deeply-rooted, and invokes a visceral reaction. I have admitted elsewhere that I am drawn to moments of literary romance, and for me, it’s not something a writer can fake. I think when done well, the reader is moved by the characters and the feelings they express for one another. Again, this can’t be put on. Like Rochester’s and Jane’s repartee, where love bleeds from the seams despite sardonic quips, deft flirtations and parries, Hertzberger’s dialogue channels romance and the romantic on every level. Even her descriptions of food serve to romanticize the atmosphere as a complement to her tightly-woven narrative. A great writer can pull this off without effort, and for me, Hertzberger is in that class.
There’s everything to love about "Back From Chaos" … I couldn’t put it down.
January 18, 2013
"Earth's Pendulum" is a classic fantasy series. You've got warring nations, political intrigue, criminals, and magic. In this case, much of the magic is Earth-based. The Earth in this world is sentient -- an actual Goddess -- and not only does She feel pain when Her children act against Her wishes, but She has the power to enact retribution on them. Unfortunately, this Divine retaliation often affects people whose actions are only tangentially connected to the wrongdoers. And when a nation goes rogue, much of the planet can be affected.
You would think the people would recognize this, and act not in their own self-interest, but in the interest of the whole Earth. Alas, people in this world are just as mean-spirited and pigheaded as on our earth. Which is good in the sense that otherwise there wouldn't be a story here to tell.
Book One, Back From Chaos, opens in the aftermath of Bargia's invasion of Catania. Both the Bargian king and his son and heir have been killed in battle, so rule of the newly-united kingdom falls to Gaelen, the second son. As luck (and Earth) would have it, he's intelligent and kind, and much better suited to the job of king than either his father or his brother -- which is a good thing, because among his first acts is to convince only surviving member of Catania's royal family, Princess Marja, to wed him.
Gaelen has inherited a number of advisors from his father, and one of the challenges he faces is determining whether all of them will be loyal to him. Among the group is a man named Klast. Politically astute, unassuming, and trained in the deadly arts, Klast is perhaps Gaelen's best friend, as well as his most trusted adviser.
Owing to a troubled past, Klast believes he must be a loner -- a belief that's sorely challenged when he rescues Marja's maid, Brensa, after she is mistaken for Marja, kidnapped, and violated. It falls to Klast to teach Brensa to trust again, and perhaps, even, to love.
Hertzberger has built a believable world with intriguing characters, whose actions and reactions ring true. Klast, in particular, is a great character. Here's a guy who can hide in plain sight and whose brain is always clicking, always evaluating every nuance of every situation. I was glad he was on our side.
You would think the people would recognize this, and act not in their own self-interest, but in the interest of the whole Earth. Alas, people in this world are just as mean-spirited and pigheaded as on our earth. Which is good in the sense that otherwise there wouldn't be a story here to tell.
Book One, Back From Chaos, opens in the aftermath of Bargia's invasion of Catania. Both the Bargian king and his son and heir have been killed in battle, so rule of the newly-united kingdom falls to Gaelen, the second son. As luck (and Earth) would have it, he's intelligent and kind, and much better suited to the job of king than either his father or his brother -- which is a good thing, because among his first acts is to convince only surviving member of Catania's royal family, Princess Marja, to wed him.
Gaelen has inherited a number of advisors from his father, and one of the challenges he faces is determining whether all of them will be loyal to him. Among the group is a man named Klast. Politically astute, unassuming, and trained in the deadly arts, Klast is perhaps Gaelen's best friend, as well as his most trusted adviser.
Owing to a troubled past, Klast believes he must be a loner -- a belief that's sorely challenged when he rescues Marja's maid, Brensa, after she is mistaken for Marja, kidnapped, and violated. It falls to Klast to teach Brensa to trust again, and perhaps, even, to love.
Hertzberger has built a believable world with intriguing characters, whose actions and reactions ring true. Klast, in particular, is a great character. Here's a guy who can hide in plain sight and whose brain is always clicking, always evaluating every nuance of every situation. I was glad he was on our side.
June 20, 2016
Yvonne Hertzberger's fantasy novel was a very refreshing story that could have been billed as historical fiction with special terminology. I had not read a fantasy novel for some time and really didn't know what to expect, but was delightfully surprised with the author's development of her story. It was obvious to me that she wanted the reader to understand her characters, and therefore was very careful in their development - starting with a summary of the names (which when you first read them may seem strange but I felt the names actually fit each of the characters very well). I read through the character list thinking, "I won't remember these, why is she bothering." But, when I got deeper into the story I had a better understanding regarding what her introduction purpose was. The main characters had very strong parts to play in the story and I felt her portrayal of their individual roles was done with caring thoughts and backgrounds, giving each of them special skills and characteristics. Well done Yvonne!
I felt a bit overwhelmed with all that was going on in the story to start with but soon understood and appreciated the background information supplied to me as the reader. Her development of individuals with special caring natures helped in the realism of the story. I also liked how she treated one of the characters ability to be in the background and actually clouding his visibility to gain a better position of understanding what was really happening. She successfully treated a very traumatic situation where one of the female characters was brutally molested but was treated so gentle by someone you would least expect to do so. She revealed how brutal men can savagely treat a female without a conscious having no regrets for their actions, where other men can do their very best to supply healing of some kind. Even the scenes where sex was involved was treated with a gentleness rather harshness.
I feel you as a reader will enjoy how the author ties the entire story together with realism even though it was a fantasy. Her story has accomplished what any author is seeking - my desire to read her next books in the series. Read and enjoy!
I felt a bit overwhelmed with all that was going on in the story to start with but soon understood and appreciated the background information supplied to me as the reader. Her development of individuals with special caring natures helped in the realism of the story. I also liked how she treated one of the characters ability to be in the background and actually clouding his visibility to gain a better position of understanding what was really happening. She successfully treated a very traumatic situation where one of the female characters was brutally molested but was treated so gentle by someone you would least expect to do so. She revealed how brutal men can savagely treat a female without a conscious having no regrets for their actions, where other men can do their very best to supply healing of some kind. Even the scenes where sex was involved was treated with a gentleness rather than harshness.
I feel you as a reader will enjoy how the author ties the entire story together with realism even though it was a fantasy. Her story has accomplished what any author is seeking - my desire to read her next books in the series. Read and enjoy!
I felt a bit overwhelmed with all that was going on in the story to start with but soon understood and appreciated the background information supplied to me as the reader. Her development of individuals with special caring natures helped in the realism of the story. I also liked how she treated one of the characters ability to be in the background and actually clouding his visibility to gain a better position of understanding what was really happening. She successfully treated a very traumatic situation where one of the female characters was brutally molested but was treated so gentle by someone you would least expect to do so. She revealed how brutal men can savagely treat a female without a conscious having no regrets for their actions, where other men can do their very best to supply healing of some kind. Even the scenes where sex was involved was treated with a gentleness rather harshness.
I feel you as a reader will enjoy how the author ties the entire story together with realism even though it was a fantasy. Her story has accomplished what any author is seeking - my desire to read her next books in the series. Read and enjoy!
I felt a bit overwhelmed with all that was going on in the story to start with but soon understood and appreciated the background information supplied to me as the reader. Her development of individuals with special caring natures helped in the realism of the story. I also liked how she treated one of the characters ability to be in the background and actually clouding his visibility to gain a better position of understanding what was really happening. She successfully treated a very traumatic situation where one of the female characters was brutally molested but was treated so gentle by someone you would least expect to do so. She revealed how brutal men can savagely treat a female without a conscious having no regrets for their actions, where other men can do their very best to supply healing of some kind. Even the scenes where sex was involved was treated with a gentleness rather than harshness.
I feel you as a reader will enjoy how the author ties the entire story together with realism even though it was a fantasy. Her story has accomplished what any author is seeking - my desire to read her next books in the series. Read and enjoy!
August 2, 2012
Yvonne Hertzberger has crafted a wonderful fantasy tale full of great characters and plot.
The story begins with Gaelen being thrust into an unexpected leadership role when his homeland of Bargia invades Catania. From this exciting beginning, Gaelen is faced with the task of unifying the lands while being undermined by a traitor that may be closer to him than he knows. As he takes his new wife, he must also fight to keep her protected. Klast, a spy/assassin for Gaelen finds himself on a rescue mission for an abducted maiden which leads him to question himself and his way of living in ways he never expected. Klast is forced to deal with these questions as he is faced with unfamiliar feelings of love for the maiden he is sent to rescue while attempting to uncover the plot against Lord Gaelen.
This story is filled with action, adventure, romance, political conspiracy, and a dash of mystery. There is an ongoing tension that keeps you turning the pages. I love how the chapters are kept short, giving you plenty of chances to take a break, though you will rarely be able to read just one chapter...or two...or...you get the point The author's world is well-realized and, though fictional, is mainly rooted in a medieval setting. Yvonne Hertzberger has definitely done her research; her world is realistic and believable.
The characters feel real, each with a distinct personality. The author has a background in psychology and sociology which is truly shown in the realism of her characters' actions and the intricacies of their personalities. She really delves into the characters' psyches. For example, one character has an extremely traumatizing experience. Where in many fantasy stories, the character would get over the experience quickly(and unrealistically), this character must wrestle with this experience and struggle to overcome it throughout the story. Unlike some fantasy books(which is my preferred genre),these characters act like real people.
Back From Chaos stands stong as a great stand-alone novel, though the end hints at things to come in Yvonne Hertzberger's planned trilogy. The second book has already been released and I look forward to learning more about this world in it.
If you love fantasy, or just a great adventure in general, you will definitely enjoy Back From Chaos.
The story begins with Gaelen being thrust into an unexpected leadership role when his homeland of Bargia invades Catania. From this exciting beginning, Gaelen is faced with the task of unifying the lands while being undermined by a traitor that may be closer to him than he knows. As he takes his new wife, he must also fight to keep her protected. Klast, a spy/assassin for Gaelen finds himself on a rescue mission for an abducted maiden which leads him to question himself and his way of living in ways he never expected. Klast is forced to deal with these questions as he is faced with unfamiliar feelings of love for the maiden he is sent to rescue while attempting to uncover the plot against Lord Gaelen.
This story is filled with action, adventure, romance, political conspiracy, and a dash of mystery. There is an ongoing tension that keeps you turning the pages. I love how the chapters are kept short, giving you plenty of chances to take a break, though you will rarely be able to read just one chapter...or two...or...you get the point The author's world is well-realized and, though fictional, is mainly rooted in a medieval setting. Yvonne Hertzberger has definitely done her research; her world is realistic and believable.
The characters feel real, each with a distinct personality. The author has a background in psychology and sociology which is truly shown in the realism of her characters' actions and the intricacies of their personalities. She really delves into the characters' psyches. For example, one character has an extremely traumatizing experience. Where in many fantasy stories, the character would get over the experience quickly(and unrealistically), this character must wrestle with this experience and struggle to overcome it throughout the story. Unlike some fantasy books(which is my preferred genre),these characters act like real people.
Back From Chaos stands stong as a great stand-alone novel, though the end hints at things to come in Yvonne Hertzberger's planned trilogy. The second book has already been released and I look forward to learning more about this world in it.
If you love fantasy, or just a great adventure in general, you will definitely enjoy Back From Chaos.
June 16, 2012
I have to be perfectly honest—the fantasy/sci-fi genre isn’t at the top of my reading list. It’s on the list, yes, but it just doesn’t take first place. However, this book by Yvonne certainly made me question why I start each fantasy book with a little reservation, because this one very definitely confirmed how much I do enjoy the genre.
What did we have in this book? We had romance, war, spies, traitors, an epidemic, rape, politics, prediction, troubled souls, tragedy, patience and understanding, and greed. What’s not to like?
Marja survives the retaliative overthrow of Catania by Bargia. Gaelen is the surviving heir to the rule of Bargia and convinces Marja that marriage to him would be for the good of all. Reluctant and dubious of the merits, she nevertheless agrees. The possible controversy and disapproval of the union necessitates close scrutiny by Gaelen’s faithful counsellors and protection of Marja by his own right-hand man, Klast. But Gaelen has a ruthless traitor in his midst and aided by the loyal Klast and his committed seer, Liethis, Gaelen must out him and punish him accordingly without delay.
This is my first outing with Yvonne and won’t be the last. She has a very clear, expressive, thoughtful, and insightful style. I loved it. I was fascinated by Klast – he was my favourite character. He was multi-layered, an enigma, and Yvonne gave him strength of character, tenderness, decency, and loyalty. Marja and Gaelen were a well-matched young couple – both suffered personal losses, both were focussed, determined and commanded respect. Gaelen’s traitor was perfectly calculating, smug, avaricious, and ruthless.
A well-constituted cast of characters, a good mix of action and romance, and well written. Yvonne has certainly caused chaos in my preferential order of genres.
What did we have in this book? We had romance, war, spies, traitors, an epidemic, rape, politics, prediction, troubled souls, tragedy, patience and understanding, and greed. What’s not to like?
Marja survives the retaliative overthrow of Catania by Bargia. Gaelen is the surviving heir to the rule of Bargia and convinces Marja that marriage to him would be for the good of all. Reluctant and dubious of the merits, she nevertheless agrees. The possible controversy and disapproval of the union necessitates close scrutiny by Gaelen’s faithful counsellors and protection of Marja by his own right-hand man, Klast. But Gaelen has a ruthless traitor in his midst and aided by the loyal Klast and his committed seer, Liethis, Gaelen must out him and punish him accordingly without delay.
This is my first outing with Yvonne and won’t be the last. She has a very clear, expressive, thoughtful, and insightful style. I loved it. I was fascinated by Klast – he was my favourite character. He was multi-layered, an enigma, and Yvonne gave him strength of character, tenderness, decency, and loyalty. Marja and Gaelen were a well-matched young couple – both suffered personal losses, both were focussed, determined and commanded respect. Gaelen’s traitor was perfectly calculating, smug, avaricious, and ruthless.
A well-constituted cast of characters, a good mix of action and romance, and well written. Yvonne has certainly caused chaos in my preferential order of genres.
July 5, 2012
Time is certainly short. One minute I’m reading the book, the next I’m scrambling to make sure I downloaded the second novel. Thank God I had. Yvonne Hertzberger has a wonderful talent about her, able to create a world that doesn’t need all that much explanation to understand, and a solid plot built around characters rather than something catastrophic like many of the popular dystopian novels lining bookshelves these days. Earth, the Mother, is out of Balance and it’s up to a spy with no emotion to save her by saving a maid, Bensa, whose been brutally raped. Playing in the background is the coming-of-age story of Lord Gaelen, whose suddenly found himself ruler of Bargia by the double death of his father and elder brother, and Marja, Lady of the conquered kingdom Catania.
Their joining is looked on by some with hope. But for another, it’s a different story-one that could spell disaster and death not just for Bargia and Catania, but for the Earth as well.
Political intrigue, romance, magic, what more could anyone ask for?
I found myself falling in love with each of the characters. Especially Klast and Brensa. Both are so flawed, so perfectly damaged it makes for a beautiful love story that had tears welling.
The book zips along wonderfully, making for a quick but satisfying read. I think the only real trouble I had was getting used to the author’s writing style. It is much more direct than I’m used too and very formal. However, once I was five chapters in the narration flowed more easily until I had to force myself to put my iPad down to sleep.
A hard thing to do considering.
Their joining is looked on by some with hope. But for another, it’s a different story-one that could spell disaster and death not just for Bargia and Catania, but for the Earth as well.
Political intrigue, romance, magic, what more could anyone ask for?
I found myself falling in love with each of the characters. Especially Klast and Brensa. Both are so flawed, so perfectly damaged it makes for a beautiful love story that had tears welling.
The book zips along wonderfully, making for a quick but satisfying read. I think the only real trouble I had was getting used to the author’s writing style. It is much more direct than I’m used too and very formal. However, once I was five chapters in the narration flowed more easily until I had to force myself to put my iPad down to sleep.
A hard thing to do considering.
March 4, 2014
A good sword and sorcery novel has to be a combination of the fantastic with the believable if it is to work. Yvonne Hertzberger’s Back From Chaos, the first book in her Earth’s Pendulum series, has just that – a fantasy world of seers and magic described in a way that makes suspending disbelief an easy task.
I received a free review copy of Back From Chaos, which I started reading on one of the coldest days of this winter, and just after a March snowstorm and plummeting temperatures left me stranded in my suburban home. Turned out to be one of the best ways to deal with being snowbound that I could have come up with.
Kudos to Hertzberger for creating a totally believable world, peopled by characters we can identify with, love, hate – but, most importantly, believe. From Klast, the spy-assassin, who seems to start out as a supporting character, but is in fact central to much of the story, to Marja, the last surviving member of her family after an invading army kills the rest, we’re introduced to people who feel real.
I reserve five-star ratings for books that impress me deeply. Back From Chaos gets an easy five stars.
I received a free review copy of Back From Chaos, which I started reading on one of the coldest days of this winter, and just after a March snowstorm and plummeting temperatures left me stranded in my suburban home. Turned out to be one of the best ways to deal with being snowbound that I could have come up with.
Kudos to Hertzberger for creating a totally believable world, peopled by characters we can identify with, love, hate – but, most importantly, believe. From Klast, the spy-assassin, who seems to start out as a supporting character, but is in fact central to much of the story, to Marja, the last surviving member of her family after an invading army kills the rest, we’re introduced to people who feel real.
I reserve five-star ratings for books that impress me deeply. Back From Chaos gets an easy five stars.
August 26, 2012
4.0 out of 5 stars Couldn't Put it Down!, August 26, 2012
By LINDA RAE BLAIR (NC, USA)
This review is from: Back From Chaos (Earth's Pendulum) (Kindle Edition)
Well written with characters you can really care about. When a writer can make me cry, I'm THERE. Klast and his tightly contained emotions is a wonderful character. He performs duties he abhors, but he does them willingly due to loyalty to the lord he serves--often at his own emotional expense. Watching the well-scripted changes in this character is enough, but there is Marja--strong and educated for a woman of her time; Gaelen--too soon in life brought to power and never having time to grieve his losses, he wears his mantle well. How does a new lord bring two formerly warring communities together under that mantle and the price he pays to do it are so well written you won't want to put this one down. I finished it at 3 a.m. this morning and wish there had been even more.
Get it and enjoy!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006112JPG
By LINDA RAE BLAIR (NC, USA)
This review is from: Back From Chaos (Earth's Pendulum) (Kindle Edition)
Well written with characters you can really care about. When a writer can make me cry, I'm THERE. Klast and his tightly contained emotions is a wonderful character. He performs duties he abhors, but he does them willingly due to loyalty to the lord he serves--often at his own emotional expense. Watching the well-scripted changes in this character is enough, but there is Marja--strong and educated for a woman of her time; Gaelen--too soon in life brought to power and never having time to grieve his losses, he wears his mantle well. How does a new lord bring two formerly warring communities together under that mantle and the price he pays to do it are so well written you won't want to put this one down. I finished it at 3 a.m. this morning and wish there had been even more.
Get it and enjoy!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006112JPG
June 5, 2015
Back From Chaos by Yvonne Hertzberger is a fascinating start to your Earth's Pendulum series. An epic tale, this story sparked my interest from the very first page. The author knows how to tell an unusual, compelling tale and does so with a great imagination and a full vision.
This is a very smooth read that captivated my attention all the way through. An adventurous story that was both emotional and full of life. The characters were realistic and their plights moving. I was easy pulled into their emotional circumstances and enjoyed their celebrations. The suspense kept me going as I didn’t know how things would turn.
I have to credit the author for her creativity and clear writing style. This is quite an accomplishment, as this story plays out like a moving picture on a movie screen.
Quote ~
"Now, as he faced the possibility that he might lose her, he could no longer deny that he had been running from himself. And even more, that he no longer wanted to run ... or to be alone. The solitude that had for so long seemed his sanctuary now felt more like a prison."
This is a very smooth read that captivated my attention all the way through. An adventurous story that was both emotional and full of life. The characters were realistic and their plights moving. I was easy pulled into their emotional circumstances and enjoyed their celebrations. The suspense kept me going as I didn’t know how things would turn.
I have to credit the author for her creativity and clear writing style. This is quite an accomplishment, as this story plays out like a moving picture on a movie screen.
Quote ~
"Now, as he faced the possibility that he might lose her, he could no longer deny that he had been running from himself. And even more, that he no longer wanted to run ... or to be alone. The solitude that had for so long seemed his sanctuary now felt more like a prison."
May 4, 2013
I like fantasy books, but I'm picky about the ones I read. I don't care for the ones that get too far out and hard to follow. I prefer fantasies that follow the traditional path and have elements of magic, conflict and a story that keeps my interest. "Back From Chaos" totally filled the bill.
The characters and the story were very well developed. I could picture the scenes as I read the book and I have to admit, I cried a little in a few spots. When I get totally absorbed in a book and don't want to put it down, it is a good read!
The characters and the story were very well developed. I could picture the scenes as I read the book and I have to admit, I cried a little in a few spots. When I get totally absorbed in a book and don't want to put it down, it is a good read!
July 18, 2012
I don't read fantasy, I just don't...at all. But I decided to break the rule and read this one, since I'd heard a lot about it via the Indies Unlimited blog. I thoroughly enjoyed being taken to another place and found all Yvonne's characters to be so engaging that I actually want to know what happens to them and may have to read the rest of the trilogy. So maybe I do read fantasy now, thanks Yvonne.
July 15, 2012
Really enjoyed Back from Chaos: Earth's Pendulum. Lots of great characters evolve from a story about two countries and their people who must come together. The final scene introducing the new character, Liannis, is wonderful. Can't wait to read the other books.
Want to read
March 15, 2012Author's guest post at my blog:
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August 23, 2014
I stayed up late last night, reading today’s novel, Back From Chaos by Yvonne Hertzberger. Back From Chaos is the first book of the Earth’s Pendulum series, which I believe is a solid foundation to begin with.
The book begins with Marja, daughter of Cataniast, lord of Catania, hiding in the castle. Bargia, a country which borders Catania invaded and managed to overthrow Cataniast. Marja only thought was of survival, but also gave thought to killing herself to save herself the terror of being captured and raped. As a member of the ruling family, she knew that tradition dictated that she be killed.
She had begun her escape when a soldier of the invading force opened the door and caught her in the act. He announced himself as Lord Gaelen of Bargia, and requested that she put down her knife, promising that no harm would come to her. In spite of the danger to herself and her people, something in his voice makes her relent. She is taken captive and held prisoner in her own room.
Lord Gaelen, finding himself the only surviving heir of his people, his father and elder brother both tragically killed in the invasion, decides to take an unorthodox approach. He presents Marja with a proposal, one that would guarantee her safety and her freedom, that she join him as his wife. Seeing the logic behind the proposal, she agrees.
Unbeknownest to the pair, the fate of their peoples, of Cataniast and Bargia is bound to their success. Indeed, it is Earth who through the seer Liethis, who demands an end to violence and a return to balance. In restoring balance, it is neither Lord Gaelen nor Lady Marja who are destined to be the main players, but rather Gaelen’s chief spy, Klast, and Marja’s lady in waiting, Bresna, who become the focus of Earth and her desire for balance.
Klast, whose childhood had enured him to hardships, hardening him against the advances of women and the company of men, whose ability to blend into the crowd and disappear, who had fortified himself against his own emotions, now must come to terms with his destiny.
It is through Bresna that he must decide his fate, and the fate of the mankind. It is though the act of saving her that he himself might save himself. His destiny is bound by oath to the house of Bragia, first to Gaelen’s father and then to Gaelen himself. Can he save both Cataniast and Bargia, as well as Bresna and himself.
What does Earth demand of him and why?
First let me start off by saying I cannot do this book justice by trying to summarize it in such a short amount of space. How can I categorize this? There seems to be many ways to do so. Fantasy to be sure, but there are elements of political intrigue, stories of love and romance. There are issues of rape, child abuse and hints of sexual abuse as well. There are graphic details of death and executions. This is not a feel good book.
That being said, it is a well-written book, one that captivates the reader. Once cannot help but root for Gaelen and Marja as they try to unite their homes against the attack of treason member of their inner circle. One is hard-pressed not to feel for Bresna as she suffers the indignation of being attacked and seeing Klast rescue her, and by doing so, seeing his defenses fall away in spite of himself.
Yvonne has written a book filled with many elements that together make up an elaborate tapestry, a story of pain to be sure, but out of that pain the birth of something greater. Out of it, there can be found a peace, all the more richer for the trials endured to earn it. But first the character’s must find a way to surrender themselves to their destiny, and find a way despite their reservations.
Once I began to read it, I was loathe to put it down, which I had to when my Kindle died. I picked it back up once my battery had recharged, eager to see where the trials would lead, and I was not disappointed. I was both surprised and pleased, primed to pick up the next installment of the series.
In short, I give this 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a great book with a riveting story line, characters rich in detail and subtleties. I cannot recommend Back From Chaos enough!
The book begins with Marja, daughter of Cataniast, lord of Catania, hiding in the castle. Bargia, a country which borders Catania invaded and managed to overthrow Cataniast. Marja only thought was of survival, but also gave thought to killing herself to save herself the terror of being captured and raped. As a member of the ruling family, she knew that tradition dictated that she be killed.
She had begun her escape when a soldier of the invading force opened the door and caught her in the act. He announced himself as Lord Gaelen of Bargia, and requested that she put down her knife, promising that no harm would come to her. In spite of the danger to herself and her people, something in his voice makes her relent. She is taken captive and held prisoner in her own room.
Lord Gaelen, finding himself the only surviving heir of his people, his father and elder brother both tragically killed in the invasion, decides to take an unorthodox approach. He presents Marja with a proposal, one that would guarantee her safety and her freedom, that she join him as his wife. Seeing the logic behind the proposal, she agrees.
Unbeknownest to the pair, the fate of their peoples, of Cataniast and Bargia is bound to their success. Indeed, it is Earth who through the seer Liethis, who demands an end to violence and a return to balance. In restoring balance, it is neither Lord Gaelen nor Lady Marja who are destined to be the main players, but rather Gaelen’s chief spy, Klast, and Marja’s lady in waiting, Bresna, who become the focus of Earth and her desire for balance.
Klast, whose childhood had enured him to hardships, hardening him against the advances of women and the company of men, whose ability to blend into the crowd and disappear, who had fortified himself against his own emotions, now must come to terms with his destiny.
It is through Bresna that he must decide his fate, and the fate of the mankind. It is though the act of saving her that he himself might save himself. His destiny is bound by oath to the house of Bragia, first to Gaelen’s father and then to Gaelen himself. Can he save both Cataniast and Bargia, as well as Bresna and himself.
What does Earth demand of him and why?
First let me start off by saying I cannot do this book justice by trying to summarize it in such a short amount of space. How can I categorize this? There seems to be many ways to do so. Fantasy to be sure, but there are elements of political intrigue, stories of love and romance. There are issues of rape, child abuse and hints of sexual abuse as well. There are graphic details of death and executions. This is not a feel good book.
That being said, it is a well-written book, one that captivates the reader. Once cannot help but root for Gaelen and Marja as they try to unite their homes against the attack of treason member of their inner circle. One is hard-pressed not to feel for Bresna as she suffers the indignation of being attacked and seeing Klast rescue her, and by doing so, seeing his defenses fall away in spite of himself.
Yvonne has written a book filled with many elements that together make up an elaborate tapestry, a story of pain to be sure, but out of that pain the birth of something greater. Out of it, there can be found a peace, all the more richer for the trials endured to earn it. But first the character’s must find a way to surrender themselves to their destiny, and find a way despite their reservations.
Once I began to read it, I was loathe to put it down, which I had to when my Kindle died. I picked it back up once my battery had recharged, eager to see where the trials would lead, and I was not disappointed. I was both surprised and pleased, primed to pick up the next installment of the series.
In short, I give this 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a great book with a riveting story line, characters rich in detail and subtleties. I cannot recommend Back From Chaos enough!
September 7, 2013
This is an engrossing story that includes war, espionage, politics, spirituality, and a bit of romance to boot. There are several characters in this book that are listed at the beginning. I found this list intimidating but plowed ahead hoping I could keep up with all of them. The story centers on Gaelen, second son of the King of Bargia, who is thrust into power after the death of the king and his oldest son during a battle at the beginning of the story, and his advisors. As the characters were brought into play, I had no problem keeping up with them and the roles they played. The main characters are all well developed and easily believable. The matters of state which Gaelen had to deal with were tedious to me but essential to the story over all.
There are no fantasy creatures in this story; the only magical element was perhaps the spiritual belief that we ourselves affect our environment and the world as a whole. Oh, well, there was a prophetess, a true seer who Gaelen called upon occasionally. If you enjoy the political workings of a society, spy games, mercenaries, and mistresses I believe you will enjoy this story as well. The plot moves along at a nice pace encompassing all matters of this demesne (the term for the land under control of a lord) and those surrounding it.
What captivated me was the relationship between Klast, the king’s assassin, and Brensa, a lady in waiting. Both are badly broken souls that need healing and whose futures seem to hold dominion over the prosperity of the kingdom as a whole. I found it fascinating and their journey became very important to me. I do tend to get involved in the emotional aspects of the characters I read; this is where I think any story’s strength lie. Ms. Hertzberger was able to capture and express the emotions of all her characters, be it love or treachery, throughout the entire novel. This books storyline is complete; there were no cliff-hangers to draw you into the next book, although I am very interested to see what happens next. This is a great story on all levels.
FYI: British spelling and some ‘Old World’ word usage.
Format/Typo Issues: A small number of proofing errors were noted.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. ** Sunday, September 1, 2013
There are no fantasy creatures in this story; the only magical element was perhaps the spiritual belief that we ourselves affect our environment and the world as a whole. Oh, well, there was a prophetess, a true seer who Gaelen called upon occasionally. If you enjoy the political workings of a society, spy games, mercenaries, and mistresses I believe you will enjoy this story as well. The plot moves along at a nice pace encompassing all matters of this demesne (the term for the land under control of a lord) and those surrounding it.
What captivated me was the relationship between Klast, the king’s assassin, and Brensa, a lady in waiting. Both are badly broken souls that need healing and whose futures seem to hold dominion over the prosperity of the kingdom as a whole. I found it fascinating and their journey became very important to me. I do tend to get involved in the emotional aspects of the characters I read; this is where I think any story’s strength lie. Ms. Hertzberger was able to capture and express the emotions of all her characters, be it love or treachery, throughout the entire novel. This books storyline is complete; there were no cliff-hangers to draw you into the next book, although I am very interested to see what happens next. This is a great story on all levels.
FYI: British spelling and some ‘Old World’ word usage.
Format/Typo Issues: A small number of proofing errors were noted.
**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy. ** Sunday, September 1, 2013
Read
January 21, 2015Ugh! I hate it when I’m in the minority regarding my like or dislike of a book. I always feel I’ve missed something, but I have found that I’m a finicky reader, much to my own annoyance. Sadly—very sadly, I might add—this book didn’t hold my attention.
This review isn’t going to be very detailed as I sadly skimmed quite a bit. The story itself was a nice idea: An invasion by a neighboring land and the transition to this new ruler, who was a very likable guy. There’s some intrigue in there, a hefty dose of betrayal, loads of romance, and an interesting back story on one of the characters. I didn’t mind the four characters this book centered around. They had some good qualities. There were some great moments in this book. However ...
There was way too much repetition of emotions that it bogged down the story. On top of that, most of the story felt like a recap. There were some wonderful moments where we were actually grounded in the story, but the rest of the time it was simply a recount of events that had happened. Or either the scene itself seemed as if it were being told to me. I never became involved in the story. I never was entrenched in the scenes because they were over so quickly, then we had an explanation, some repetitive musings, and then there was another scene. These breaks just kept pulling me out of the story and made me start skimming enough that I’m sure I missed some stuff.
Based on some reviews, I guess I skipped a lot of good stuff. Tons of people love this book. It has some serious 5 star ratings, so I really feel this comes down to personal taste. It just didn’t connect with me, but it clearly connected with a lot of other people.
I enjoyed Klast’s character the most. He had some pretty horrible things happen to him, and we were privy to his story. What I didn’t like was the break from the main story to dedicate a chapter to an overview of what happened to him. I would have loved to see this worked into the story more.
So overall, I think this simply boils down to the fact that this wasn’t my cup of tea. Again, others loved it. I myself think the story had loads of potential. There were some interesting characters. I just couldn’t get into it, but I’m clearly in the minority.
This review isn’t going to be very detailed as I sadly skimmed quite a bit. The story itself was a nice idea: An invasion by a neighboring land and the transition to this new ruler, who was a very likable guy. There’s some intrigue in there, a hefty dose of betrayal, loads of romance, and an interesting back story on one of the characters. I didn’t mind the four characters this book centered around. They had some good qualities. There were some great moments in this book. However ...
There was way too much repetition of emotions that it bogged down the story. On top of that, most of the story felt like a recap. There were some wonderful moments where we were actually grounded in the story, but the rest of the time it was simply a recount of events that had happened. Or either the scene itself seemed as if it were being told to me. I never became involved in the story. I never was entrenched in the scenes because they were over so quickly, then we had an explanation, some repetitive musings, and then there was another scene. These breaks just kept pulling me out of the story and made me start skimming enough that I’m sure I missed some stuff.
Based on some reviews, I guess I skipped a lot of good stuff. Tons of people love this book. It has some serious 5 star ratings, so I really feel this comes down to personal taste. It just didn’t connect with me, but it clearly connected with a lot of other people.
I enjoyed Klast’s character the most. He had some pretty horrible things happen to him, and we were privy to his story. What I didn’t like was the break from the main story to dedicate a chapter to an overview of what happened to him. I would have loved to see this worked into the story more.
So overall, I think this simply boils down to the fact that this wasn’t my cup of tea. Again, others loved it. I myself think the story had loads of potential. There were some interesting characters. I just couldn’t get into it, but I’m clearly in the minority.
May 26, 2014
Enthralling
This is the first Sword and Sorcery/Fantasy book I have ever read, and that includes never having read a Harry Potter book. I became curious about the genre and took on “Back From Chaos: Book One” to see what makes the genre so popular. Upon finishing the first page I doubted that the rest of the book would hold my interest (give me a good old crime book and I’m yours for life). Not being a literary agent, I didn’t toss “Back From Chaos” aside after the first page. Yvonne Hertzberg’s writing capability and style had gained my trust.
Long ago I learned my lesson about trust when I had read my first John le Carré novel. Starting the book I couldn’t believe it was a bestseller. But I continued on, and was damn glad I did. The same was true with “Back From Chaos.” This book took me to another place and time, into a world of violence and treachery; and above all, into a world of magic. Now I know why the Sword and Sorcery/Fantasy genre is so popular.
I was going to give this book 4 stars, but because of Yvonne Hertzberg’s writing talent I decided that it deserved 5.
This is the first Sword and Sorcery/Fantasy book I have ever read, and that includes never having read a Harry Potter book. I became curious about the genre and took on “Back From Chaos: Book One” to see what makes the genre so popular. Upon finishing the first page I doubted that the rest of the book would hold my interest (give me a good old crime book and I’m yours for life). Not being a literary agent, I didn’t toss “Back From Chaos” aside after the first page. Yvonne Hertzberg’s writing capability and style had gained my trust.
Long ago I learned my lesson about trust when I had read my first John le Carré novel. Starting the book I couldn’t believe it was a bestseller. But I continued on, and was damn glad I did. The same was true with “Back From Chaos.” This book took me to another place and time, into a world of violence and treachery; and above all, into a world of magic. Now I know why the Sword and Sorcery/Fantasy genre is so popular.
I was going to give this book 4 stars, but because of Yvonne Hertzberg’s writing talent I decided that it deserved 5.
September 6, 2015
I chose this book because of the amazing reviews that it received, but honestly the story line did not pull me in. Most of it's characters seemed flat (good thing Gaelen and Marya didn't remain the main characters for long - gah!), and Earth's connection with its people and the significance of their actions could have been included/explained more. The "chaos" part of the story was not significantly explained. What does warring between two nations or the need of an heir have anything to do with causing chaos, or causing Earth to anguish? Maybe I was thinking of more on the lines of a "mother" earth as opposed to a "universe" earth? Just about the only thing I enjoyed and kept me reading was the growing relationship between Klast and Bresna, but even that fell short at the climax. I might some day go back to this series because I truly love fantasy, but not any time soon.
June 13, 2014
Back From Chaos is an excellent sword and sorcery fantasy novel most remarkable for its wonderful characters. There are two essential love stories contained within the larger epic which are both endearing. One is the classic prince and princess fairy tale that retains its charm in spite of the obvious happily every after cliché. But the other, more interesting one is between a spy and a lady of the court and is most surprising and engaging. For fans of the sword and sorcery genres, as well as romantics of every stripe, this is a wonderfully entertaining read. It is filled with betrayal, conspiracy, intrigue, and romance. An enjoyable start to what promises to be a very rich and entertaining series.
October 31, 2014
I find it funny how so many of the reviewers stated "fantasy is not something I read, but" Well, I am one of those. I usually run from the genre not wanting to get lost in things so far out of my sense of reality. I felt connected to this novel because it basically shows how everything helps or hinders something or someone else. In my mind the title has many meanings and it shows in the lives of the characters.
The storyline is easy to follow, the complexity of the characters (though sometimes hard to accept) is beautifully written. The author has a good handle on expressing emotions and pulling them out of you. I was truly entertained while reading Back From Chaos and recommend it to others.
The storyline is easy to follow, the complexity of the characters (though sometimes hard to accept) is beautifully written. The author has a good handle on expressing emotions and pulling them out of you. I was truly entertained while reading Back From Chaos and recommend it to others.
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