Review by mschauwecker3] -- The Raven's Trail (Book 1)
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Review by mschauwecker3] -- The Raven's Trail (Book 1)
[Following is a volunteer review of "The Raven's Trail (Book 1)" by Liz D. Marx.]
The Raven’s Trail (Book 1) by Liz D. Marx is an interesting blend of Native American culture, magic, action, and romance. Chloe Doyle is a simple historian who follows her unusual dreams to Arkansas while searching for answers about a magical relic she has discovered. The mysterious Mason Green enters Chloe’s life and leads her deeper into a world of Native American magic where Chloe unlocks secrets of her past. Mason has his own secrets to keep, but as his life becomes entangled with Chloe’s, he must let them out to save their lives. Mason has someone trying to kill him, and he must return to his native land and the Caddo tribe for help; however, it arrives in a very unexpected way.
The romantic tension between Chloe and Mason was what I liked most about this story. Chloe is somewhat shy but also brave, while Mason appears aloof and arrogant. They must work together throughout the story as the romantic tension slowly grows. I like how that happens without the usual love scenes that are often over-done. There is a feeling of anticipation surrounding them that was very realistic and enjoyable.
What I disliked most about this story was the subplot. Mason’s friend, Foster, and an assistant to one of Mason’s clients, Pamela, were interacting throughout the book. Pamela’s tough persona seemed a little forced; it is difficult to create a convincing female “bad guy.” I felt like the violence in their part of the story took away from the beauty of Chloe and Mason’s. Although the plots merged toward the end, I actually feel like Foster and Pamela could have been left out of the book completely. Mason’s client was the only supporting character that was truly important to the outcome of the story.
I gave this book 3 out of 4 stars. I loved the storyline between Chloe and Mason, the flashbacks, the involvement of the Caddo tribe, the magic, and the descriptions of the beautiful Valley of Vapors. Those elements deserve 4 stars. However, the sub-plot was simply not enjoyable for me. The style of it seemed incongruent with the main plot, and I just did not feel it was necessary. I would give that part of the book only 2 stars.
I would recommend The Raven’s Trail to fans of romance, fantasy, action, Native American culture, and historical fiction. It was very well written and professionally done. As the first book in a series, it does a wonderful job of grabbing the reader’s attention. I know I am definitely looking forward to reading the next installment.
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The Raven's Trail (Book 1)
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
The Raven’s Trail (Book 1) by Liz D. Marx is an interesting blend of Native American culture, magic, action, and romance. Chloe Doyle is a simple historian who follows her unusual dreams to Arkansas while searching for answers about a magical relic she has discovered. The mysterious Mason Green enters Chloe’s life and leads her deeper into a world of Native American magic where Chloe unlocks secrets of her past. Mason has his own secrets to keep, but as his life becomes entangled with Chloe’s, he must let them out to save their lives. Mason has someone trying to kill him, and he must return to his native land and the Caddo tribe for help; however, it arrives in a very unexpected way.
The romantic tension between Chloe and Mason was what I liked most about this story. Chloe is somewhat shy but also brave, while Mason appears aloof and arrogant. They must work together throughout the story as the romantic tension slowly grows. I like how that happens without the usual love scenes that are often over-done. There is a feeling of anticipation surrounding them that was very realistic and enjoyable.
What I disliked most about this story was the subplot. Mason’s friend, Foster, and an assistant to one of Mason’s clients, Pamela, were interacting throughout the book. Pamela’s tough persona seemed a little forced; it is difficult to create a convincing female “bad guy.” I felt like the violence in their part of the story took away from the beauty of Chloe and Mason’s. Although the plots merged toward the end, I actually feel like Foster and Pamela could have been left out of the book completely. Mason’s client was the only supporting character that was truly important to the outcome of the story.
I gave this book 3 out of 4 stars. I loved the storyline between Chloe and Mason, the flashbacks, the involvement of the Caddo tribe, the magic, and the descriptions of the beautiful Valley of Vapors. Those elements deserve 4 stars. However, the sub-plot was simply not enjoyable for me. The style of it seemed incongruent with the main plot, and I just did not feel it was necessary. I would give that part of the book only 2 stars.
I would recommend The Raven’s Trail to fans of romance, fantasy, action, Native American culture, and historical fiction. It was very well written and professionally done. As the first book in a series, it does a wonderful job of grabbing the reader’s attention. I know I am definitely looking forward to reading the next installment.
******
The Raven's Trail (Book 1)
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: The Mindset by Ace Bowers
