Saturday, June 21, 2008

Review: Farworld: Volume 1-Water Keep


It’s been a few weeks since I read a book with the “Next, please” factor. Volume 1 of the new Farworld series is one of those books. J. Scott Savage's work is always memorable, but this story beat them all and I can't wait to read Volume 2.

I cared immediately for the two main characters, Marcus and Kyja, because of their disabilities. Not that I felt sorry for them. On the contrary, it was their determined fight to live, to overcome the odds, which held my attention chapter after suspenseful chapter.

Hats off to J. Scott Savage for creating surprise plot twists and unique scientific magic.

The one slightly-less-than-positive thing about this novel for me was the pace. I sometimes felt like I needed a breather between intense action. But that might be an age viewpoint. No doubt younger readers will love the breathtaking speed at which events tumble over each other in the race for survival.

Every character is totally believable. I particularly enjoyed little Dew, although all the Water Keep characters are a delight. Their names, too, are a perfect fit.

It’s good to see a book written for the National market, with characters who are prepared to sacrifice their own wants in order for others to survive. A burning desire to help is key to the overall plot as Marcus and Kyja discover the mythical Elementals—water, land, air and fire.

I’ll definitely pass this book to my grandchildren, and recommend it for all who love a good, well written adventure. A great family read.

Farworld: Volume 1-Water Keep will be in stores September, 2008, and is published by Deseret Book, Shadow Mountain.
Remember, the contest to win a
rare ARC copy of this book ends Monday, June 30th 2008.

1) Add a link to this blog on your blog, with some nice blurb about the contest.

2) Post a comment on here so I can visit your blog and see your entry.

More information at Farworld Contest.


6 comments:

Candace E. Salima said...

I already managed to get my hands on an ARC of this book. I loved it. I picked it up, initially, to scan a couple of chapter before going to bed. I turned the last page in the wee hours of morning. You're right, Harry Potter's days are numbered.

Shirley Bahlmann said...

Yes, I have to agree, Anne, this book is a keeper. Nice review.

Pink Ink said...

Sounds like a great book. I can't wait to read it when it comes out. When I figure out how this linking works, I will sign up.

Pat said...

I posted a link on my blog, but I forgot to link you up here!
Here's my post: http://grannytsbungalow.blogspot.com/2008/06/blog-tour.html

Stephanie Abney said...

OK, Anne, I left this comment on the contest blog of June 6th, I think it was... but I havne't noticed you at my blog yet so thought I'd double up and leave it here as well ~ great review!!!

I wrote a blurb about the contest and linked it to your blog. You can check it out at:
http://stephaniesaysso.blogspot.com/2008/06/not-entirely-british-announcing-new.html

Thanks!!!
Blessings,
Stephanie

Anna Maria Junus said...

I posted a link too. This book sounds like a lot of fun.

Here's my link: amjunus.blogspot.com