the author spends more time discussing and integrating a theory of witchcraft than in actual story telling. This makes it quite philosophical for an adventure. ( )

This high fantasy takes the genre by storm. It approaches the story in a completely different manner. Yes, we have the traditional high fantasy elements, but we are given a very unique set of twists and turns. Whilst the story is based round suppressing magas, it doesn't dwell on the part pertaining to sex, which I liked. I wasn't interested in fighting for rights, but what the author did do absolutely brilliantly was to create a strong female character who was willing to fight for herself, and figh for love.

The characters, especially the leading lady, were created exceptionally well. As I mentioned, the lead lady was strong, courageous and smart. As the read progressed she became more real and had a lovely amount of depth and personality. I really connected with her and was keen to she where she was going to take things. The rest of the characters, like all good fantasy, where given lots of detail. Some of these, we got to know very well, and they have become big players, in the story. The others, we are likely to see in the future, so the detail and attention they were given will really round out the story.

The pace was brilliant, as was the use of magic. I found that we were constant kept on our toes, wondering what would happen next and just how long our main lady could hide who she truly was. I loved that we were given time to get to know the characters' background, but then would be thrown into a massive whirlwind.

The story, overall, is very interesting. It was easy to jus,p straight in and really become part of the read. I was hooked straightaway and may have tried to sneak in little reading sessions at every moment possible. As a series, I think this has a lot of potential. I expect the rest of the journey to be just as good, if not better. I really look forward to reading more.

**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. ( )