Friday, March 28, 2014

Dragonswood- Janet Lee Carey

My Rating: 4 stars

Description: On Wilde Island, there is no peace between dragons, fairies, and humans.

Wilde Island is in an uproar over the recent death of its king. As the uneasy pact between dragons, fairies, and humans begins to fray, the royal witch hunter with a hidden agenda begins a vengeful quest to burn girls suspected of witchcraft before a new king is crowned.

Strong-willed Tess, a blacksmith’s daughter from a tiny hamlet, wants more for herself than a husband and a house to keep. But in times like these wanting more can be dangerous. Accused of witchery, Tess and her two friends are forced to flee the violent witch hunter. As their pursuer draws ever closer they find shelter with a huntsman in the outskirts of the forbidden Dragonswood sanctuary. But staying with the mysterious huntsman poses risks of its own: Tess does not know how to handle the attraction she feels for him—or resist the elusive call that draws her deeper onto the heart of Dragonswood.


My Thoughts: As a history lover, the first thing that drew me to this story was the premise of a girl who had been accused of witchcraft. What held me was Dragonswood.

A forest within medieval England, home to dragons and fey folk alike. I could easily see Tess fascination with it from the beginning. I was tempted to cross the boundary wall myself (if I could ever find it). The mix of history and fantasy in this unique story carried me way.

My one true dislike for the story was Lady Adela. Her reasons for her vial deeds are murky at best. I don't understand why everyone could explain them away and then treat Tess like she was wrong for being distrustful.

Still, story and its setting were absolutely delightful, if a bit sad because the ugly historical aspects of the witch hunts.

2 comments:

  1. Thank you for the recommendation! I never heard about this book, and it sounds quite interesting!

    ReplyDelete