#THE BEHOLDER SERIES#

Plenty of clues are given, but a gorgeous map will be much appreciated. Hopefully, a map will be included in the book, as the actual time period and place of ports are a bit confusing to figure out for the reader.īefore you begin reading, it’s important to know that Selah lives in a world much like our own, but each stop does not follow any particular timeline, in fact, it often follows inspiration from stories for the feel and historical setting. One character, in particular, has me very curious and knowing how much I love the dark-hero, I’m excited for Selah to reach this last destination. A dark and dangerous German territory is hinted at as well, the Imperiya Yotne. Of castles, jousts, and blooming romances. Selah’s quest takes her to richly re-imagined versions of an England and Norway, of princes, knights, and warriors. The lush landscapes and alternate historical settings make this sea-voyage captivating for readers. Plus, an evil stepmother presence is ever looming in the background and dangerous intrigue from the various courts make each stop filled with unforeseen twists. So, even though we have a ton of fun sailing with her to each stop, where swoony-boys await-there are some wonderful growth experiences along the way. We can’t always have a warrior heroine and it was a nice change to see a young girl who suffers from insecurities and self-doubt but finds personal courage by the end of the book. One who stand-ups to others and to fight for that which she feels is right and true.

She goes from sweet, trusting, and naive at the beginning of the story-to a heroine who learns to trust in herself. What keeps this story grounded is the wonderful characterization of Selah. The story has a Selection meets The Bachelorette vibe as our heroine Selah is sent across the Atlantic where suitors are waiting for her. You can tell the author has a real love for storytelling, and finding these little hidden gems throughout is half the fun. Even Baba Yaga finds her way into the book. Throughout the story, THE BEHOLDER weaves in threads from some of readers favorite stories-such as fairy tale classics like “Cinderella,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Snow White” and mixes them with legends and myths like King Arthur, Saint George, and Odysseus. When I'm not reading or writing on my couch, I'm dragging my husband off on an adventure, communing with Salem (my kitten/spiritual familiar), or causing trouble at One More Page Books, where I work. I believe in woods, mountains, highways, cobblestones, roller coasters, dancing, concerts, cherry Pop Tarts, books, and magic. My Rating: 3.5 of 5 Stars About the Author Young Adult Fiction / Action & Adventure / Fantasy But her stepmother’s schemes aren’t the only secrets hiding belowdecks…and the stakes of her voyage may be higher than any happy ending.

#THE BEHOLDER SERIES#

Now that day has finally come.īut after an excruciatingly public rejection from her closest childhood friend, Selah’s stepmother suggests an unthinkable solution: Selah must set sail across the Atlantic, where a series of potential suitors awaits-and if she doesn’t come home engaged, she shouldn’t come home at all.įrom English castle gardens to the fjords of Norge, and under the eye of the dreaded Imperiya Yotne, Selah’s quest will be the journey of a lifetime.

As the only daughter of the leader of Potomac, she knows her duty is to find the perfect match, a partner who will help secure the future of her people. Selah has waited her whole life for a happily ever after. I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher, courtesy of Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.

The beholder