I'm reviewing another book today. The Hidden Sun by J. Lloyd Morgan.
From the back cover:
The kingdom of Bariwon is at a crossroads. Ever since Eliana was born, she has been primed to become the kingdom's leader. But she is not to rule Bariwon alone. A contest of sorts, called the Shoginoc, is to be held when Eliana turns twenty one. The victor gains the right to marry Eliana and become king of Bariwon. Rumor has it that the favorite to win the Shoginoc is Daimh, son of malevolent Governor Abrecan. However, Eliana has fallen in love with her personal guardian, Rinan. She is torn between renouncing her title to be with the man she loves or marrying to keep the kingdom out of the hands of those who would rule it unjustly. A plan is hatched to keep her in power while allowing her to marry Rinan, but little does she know the impact this deception will have on everyone in Bariwon for years to come.
Political intrigue and conspiracy abound in the medieval kingdom of Bariwon. At first, because of the medieval setting I guess, I was expecting a fantasy. The Hidden Sun is not a fantasy, but there is plenty of action, intrigue and romance here. Morgan does a great job of creating believable, quirky characters that you can easily fall in love with (or hate entirely, in the case of the villains). I found myself a little disappointed to find that the book was not entirely about Eliana and Rinan, but instead deals with the long-term effects of their choices. My disappointment faded with the great characters and exciting plot, however. The story held my interest all the way through. Unfortunately, there are a number of typos in the text, but I was able to overlook that and enjoy the story. I loved Morgan's use of symbolism dealing with rain, clouds, sunshine, light and darkness. The ending was sweet and satisfying.
The Hidden Sun is a good read for all ages, and contains no objectionable material.
You should also check out J. Lloyd Morgan's website. It's really fun. The book trailer is a hoot and you can find a pronunciation guide and fun "secrets" of The Hidden Sun, as well as the author's blog.
I received a free copy of the book from the author in exchange for my participation in the blog tour. This did not affect my review. I was asked for an honest opinion and I that's what I've given.
16 comments:
Great review Angie! I'm curious to know who the publisher is. I'll have to check that book out and give it a read. =)
Interesting, Angie... Thanks for the review! :o)
The characterization and symbolism sound top-notch. Every review I read heightens my desire to read THE HIDDEN SUN. Thanks, Angie!
Just read SACRED PLACES and loved it. Brilliant! You draw your reader right into the relationship, define the conflict, and pull emotion. I enjoyed the LDS aspect. The ending wrap up was nicely done. You inspire me! : )
Thanks for stopping by all! And thanks for reading "Sacred Places," Kathleen. I'm so glad you liked it!
I felt much the same way you did about this book, I wanted it to be about Rinan and Eliana all the way too. I stumbled over the editing a bit as well. I really liked your review!
Thanks, Debbie. I appreciate you stopping by to read it.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review The Hidden Sun. I've heard from many readers that they surprised, shocked, disappointed and/or angry that certain characters aren't around as long as they would like. From the description of the book, you might think otherwise.
Here's the secret: It's done on purpose. I hate previews that give too much away. Too many movie trailers give so much away, I felt like I've seen the whole thing! My preview just gives a taste.
One question for you: The Hidden Sun is called a fantasy book by most, but I never really thought of it as such. What would you classify it as?
Thanks for the review and recommendation, Angie! The book sounds like a great read. :o)
I like your honesty Angie! It sounds like overall you did like it.
Great review Angie! ♥
Love or loyalty to country? Good plot idea. It's nice to read a love story with deep meanings and implications. Thanks for the review.
Sounds like a good read!!! Is it in books stores? Thanks, Angie, for the review! Love To All, MOM
Sounds exciting. I'll have to put it on my reading list.
.......dhole
I love a good honest review and that's what you've done here - thanks :)
Angie, thanks so much for this review! I appreciate your thoughts and comments; I may have to check this one out.
Blessings for your week,
Karen
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