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Nine Kingdoms #6
Gift of Magic
Gift of Magic is the latest installment in New York Times bestselling author Lynn Kurland's breathtaking Nine Kingdoms saga, which follows the daughter of a dreamweaver and the son of a mage as they struggle to save the realm from a magic as dark as it is powerful.
Sarah of Doìre knows the pattern of spells is no accident. With each page, each powerful rune, she and Ruith are being led somewhere, to someone-but by whom, she cannot tell. Sarah's gift of sight only allows her to see the spells themselves, not the person behind them.
A reluctant sorcerer still learning to trust his own magic, Ruithneadh of Ceangail knows he's woefully unprepared for the adversaries they'll face. But he and Sarah must collect and destroy his father Gair's spells soon. Many mages seek their power, and in the wrong hands, Gair's magic would plunge the Nine Kingdoms into an eternity of darkness.
But as they pursue the final spells-acquiring strange companions, welcome allies, and unexpected foes along the way-Sarah and Ruith realize that their true quest has only just begun. The real enemy is closer, darker, and more power hungry than they ever imagined; and until he is defeated, the fate of the Nine Kingdoms hangs in dire peril.
310 pages, Paperback
First published January 3, 2012
34 people are currently reading
1140 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Kurland
69 books1,568 followersLynn began her writing career at the tender age of five with a series of illustrated novellas entitled Clinton’s Troubles in which the compelling hero found himself in all sorts of . . . well, trouble. She was living in Hawaii at the time and the scope for her imagination (poisoned fish, tropical cliffs, large spiders) was great and poor Clinton bore the brunt of it. After returning to the mainland, her writing gave way to training in classical music and Clinton, who had been felled with arrows, eaten by fish and sent tumbling off cars, was put aside for operatic heroes in tights.
Somehow during high school, in between bouts of Verdi and Rossini, she managed to find time to submerge herself in equal parts Tolkien, Barbara Cartland and Mad Magazine. During college, a chance encounter with a large library stack of romances left her hooked, gave her the courage to put pen to paper herself, and finally satisfied that need for a little bit of fantasy with a whole lot of romance!
Somehow during high school, in between bouts of Verdi and Rossini, she managed to find time to submerge herself in equal parts Tolkien, Barbara Cartland and Mad Magazine. During college, a chance encounter with a large library stack of romances left her hooked, gave her the courage to put pen to paper herself, and finally satisfied that need for a little bit of fantasy with a whole lot of romance!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
March 9, 2012
I haven't been impressed with the second Nine Kingdoms trilogy, so it was no surprise I didn't care for the final book. I got tired of things being blatantly stated and then two paragraphs later everyone is startled by the same revelation. Or the never ending admiration for everyone's beauty. Or the repeated doubts of overtly stated love. Or the fact that everyone is royalty but no one wants to be. I was excited that Miach and Morgan showed up, but they weren't in it nearly long enough. And I clearly wasn't following the plot properly, as they were chasing spells on a quest that they could only do alone: until they decide, eh, okay, you should help us...and then pick the only people they don't fully trust. And the goal of gathering spells, but only to destroy them as a complete set...just destroy them as you get them if they are so dangerous! Morag's stint as a bad guy turned out as useless as the bad guy from the first trilogy...you hear more about them second hand and the actual encounters are brief and anticlimactic. Ditto Urchaid. As was the conclusion of the book really. Ruith's solution was far too easy to defeat all the evil and powerful magic that should have been in play (plus what happened to Doire being a magic sink? There were spells aplenty!) And speaking of holes in the plot...if Ruith, Morgan, and Runach all survived the well incident that supposedly killed everyone involved, then why shouldn't we think all their siblings survived and are hiding in various castles/fortresses etc? Kurland created a lot of interesting places...Wegner and Nicholas's castles, Hearn's horse stables, then the hidden cave set up we see briefly here. But we skim past them. The characters would have to be more interesting to take full advantage of the settings anyway. Other reviews say there will be a third trilogy. I'm not sure if I will check it out...we'll see if the description (when it comes out) pulls me in enough to lure me back into the Nine Kingdoms, since right now I've had my fill of it.
April 7, 2012
I’m not going to lie… I am a little disappointed in Gift of Magic… This is the book that I have been waiting for. This was the book that was going to make all the wait worthwhile. This was going to be Ruith and Sarah's chance to shine. But, I don't think it is. I think that, in the world of the Nine Kingdoms, Ruith and Sarah are destined to be shadows. And for me, from my place as captain of Team Ruith, it is a little upsetting.
So, we left Sarah and Ruith at a pretty good spot. At the end of Spellweaver, Ruith had admitted his feelings for Sarah, made it clear he wanted to marry her, and she had tentatively accepted. But first, they knew, they would have to finish their quest. The pages from Gair's book would need to be collected and then destroyed. But Sarah and Ruith knew they needed to do this together. Her sight and his magic were the only way that they would be able to complete their quest and save the Nine Kingdoms from the threat of evil.
For the full review, please go to http://thewindowseat13.blogspot.com/2...
So, we left Sarah and Ruith at a pretty good spot. At the end of Spellweaver, Ruith had admitted his feelings for Sarah, made it clear he wanted to marry her, and she had tentatively accepted. But first, they knew, they would have to finish their quest. The pages from Gair's book would need to be collected and then destroyed. But Sarah and Ruith knew they needed to do this together. Her sight and his magic were the only way that they would be able to complete their quest and save the Nine Kingdoms from the threat of evil.
For the full review, please go to http://thewindowseat13.blogspot.com/2...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2013
I have been caught up in this series for awhile now and enjoyed every minute of it. This the third book of the second trilogy, each trilogy featuring a different couple, but they are taking place almost at the same time and in the same world. The characters, both the major and the minor ones are interwoven between the stories. I have read some reviews of these books from people who did not care for them, but they seem to very often just not be their kind of books. This series is a romance but a they are sweet and chaste, not torrid and earth shattering like so often found in romance novels these days. In a way they are simple except that the stories are complex with many goods and evils running back and forth throughout. So what is simple? The slow developing, predictable and yet beautiful romances between the two main characters. I just liked being along for the ride and could not wait for a bit of time to pick the book(s)up again. I loved the complex names that I mostly could not pronounce but they slid nicely across my mind. In my mind's eye I could see the amazing Nine Kingdoms with magic gently flowing from fingertips and then often crashing through walls. I suppose this all comes down to the fact I really enjoy this author's way of combining a clean romance with magic and fantasy.
In this book we follow once more Sarah and Ruith on their quest to find and destroy his father Gair's spells. The mystery of who is the real enemy and how to stop him comes to a climax in this book, and I will not do a spoiler here. Again Miach enters into this story, and I would be lying if I did not admit he is my favorite character in this series. I will re-read I am sure many times the first three books and the story of Miach and Morgan. Ruith is Morgan's brother and long ago boyhood friend of Miach, but he was for many years thought to have died along with his parents at the well where his father called forth the blackest of magic. This was my favorite of the trilogy featuring Sarah and Ruith. I thought the series was over when I finished this one, but no, there is one more book out. (Dreamspinner) It is the first of the next trilogy and the story of Runach, brother to Morgan and Ruith. I hope there are many more. I would like a book about Weger - a very unique character who is in all of these books. This is a series I have very much enjoyed reading and after the next book I suppose I will have to wait. It was nice to read them all together.
In this book we follow once more Sarah and Ruith on their quest to find and destroy his father Gair's spells. The mystery of who is the real enemy and how to stop him comes to a climax in this book, and I will not do a spoiler here. Again Miach enters into this story, and I would be lying if I did not admit he is my favorite character in this series. I will re-read I am sure many times the first three books and the story of Miach and Morgan. Ruith is Morgan's brother and long ago boyhood friend of Miach, but he was for many years thought to have died along with his parents at the well where his father called forth the blackest of magic. This was my favorite of the trilogy featuring Sarah and Ruith. I thought the series was over when I finished this one, but no, there is one more book out. (Dreamspinner) It is the first of the next trilogy and the story of Runach, brother to Morgan and Ruith. I hope there are many more. I would like a book about Weger - a very unique character who is in all of these books. This is a series I have very much enjoyed reading and after the next book I suppose I will have to wait. It was nice to read them all together.
March 5, 2012
In one word, this book was a disappointing finish to the story of Ruithneadh and Sarah in particular and the tale of the Nine Kingdoms is general.
It's not that the story wasn't well told. It was. The writing was truly beautiful, and the world sprawled out like only epic fantasy can, and the names were right. It is a pet peeve of mine to read fantasy with names that sound fake - it spoils the whole story. Well, the names of people and places in this series, although unpronounceable, fit perfectly. So it was good book. It could easily have been a four or five star book, but it ended up a three because...it was just an anticlimax. Really, it was. The whole epic culmination of the novel was just blah.
In addition, the book had way too much repetition. Since book four Ruith had been whining about his magic. "Oh look at me, poor boy, I am a powerful magician, but my dad was evil. Never mind that everyone else in my family tree is a wonderful noble incorruptible person and I aspire to be like them, my dad was really evil, so I'll be evil too. Woe is me, woe is me." That was Ruith from book #4, when he was introduced, to the final 10% of this book when he realizes that he's nothing like his dad. Duh! And every 15 seconds, we were being reminded that he spent time running around with Miach of Neroche being troublesome and stealing spells when they were 10 years old. Every fifteen seconds. It happened over 20 years ago, and was repeated ad nauseum through the series, even from Miach's section - so that makes 6 books through which we've been hearing this. It became annoying after the 3rd mention in the first book. And we also heard way too much about Miach. This wasn't his book, and he didn't have any substantial part to play. i just didn't see the need to be reminded of him every few pages. Sarah also just spent half the book whining about not having any magic, even though she could dreamweave, and going on and on about not being princess enough for Ruith, even though her mom and dd came from distinguished royal families: every fifteen seconds too. Argh!
I think this might be the end of the Nine Kingdoms series, in which case I'm sad to part with a great cast of characters and a good epic story; but this ending didn't do it's characters or the series much justice at all.
ETA: No it's not the end of the series I hear tell Ms. Kurland is working on a set of books for Runach! So we'll see them again.
It's not that the story wasn't well told. It was. The writing was truly beautiful, and the world sprawled out like only epic fantasy can, and the names were right. It is a pet peeve of mine to read fantasy with names that sound fake - it spoils the whole story. Well, the names of people and places in this series, although unpronounceable, fit perfectly. So it was good book. It could easily have been a four or five star book, but it ended up a three because...it was just an anticlimax. Really, it was. The whole epic culmination of the novel was just blah.
In addition, the book had way too much repetition. Since book four Ruith had been whining about his magic. "Oh look at me, poor boy, I am a powerful magician, but my dad was evil. Never mind that everyone else in my family tree is a wonderful noble incorruptible person and I aspire to be like them, my dad was really evil, so I'll be evil too. Woe is me, woe is me." That was Ruith from book #4, when he was introduced, to the final 10% of this book when he realizes that he's nothing like his dad. Duh! And every 15 seconds, we were being reminded that he spent time running around with Miach of Neroche being troublesome and stealing spells when they were 10 years old. Every fifteen seconds. It happened over 20 years ago, and was repeated ad nauseum through the series, even from Miach's section - so that makes 6 books through which we've been hearing this. It became annoying after the 3rd mention in the first book. And we also heard way too much about Miach. This wasn't his book, and he didn't have any substantial part to play. i just didn't see the need to be reminded of him every few pages. Sarah also just spent half the book whining about not having any magic, even though she could dreamweave, and going on and on about not being princess enough for Ruith, even though her mom and dd came from distinguished royal families: every fifteen seconds too. Argh!
I think this might be the end of the Nine Kingdoms series, in which case I'm sad to part with a great cast of characters and a good epic story; but this ending didn't do it's characters or the series much justice at all.
ETA: No it's not the end of the series I hear tell Ms. Kurland is working on a set of books for Runach! So we'll see them again.
November 24, 2017
5 June 2015: $3.79 on Kindle
3.5 Stars I think. Full review to come.
Any questions you had from the first two books - answered. Fear not, all the threads that were hanging are resolved. The characters are, as always, charming and lovable. Great scene, highly anticipated near the beginning of the book that had me tearing up a bit.
Some frustrations though. Sarah's reluctance to accept (and return) Ruith's feelings and love got old fairly quickly in this book. Her desire to keep him at half an arm's length was disappointing because it was less than Ruith, and the Sarah I loved from the previous books, deserved. The ending also reminded me a bit of Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien - Gollum may yet have a part to play in this... (paraphrase) - though only very loosely. Still it led it to be a bit anti-climactic.
And then there's one plot point that's bugging me. I can't really get into it because it's a huge spoiler, but...
If someone who's read this wants to talk spoilers - let me know.
3.5 Stars I think. Full review to come.
Any questions you had from the first two books - answered. Fear not, all the threads that were hanging are resolved. The characters are, as always, charming and lovable. Great scene, highly anticipated near the beginning of the book that had me tearing up a bit.
Some frustrations though. Sarah's reluctance to accept (and return) Ruith's feelings and love got old fairly quickly in this book. Her desire to keep him at half an arm's length was disappointing because it was less than Ruith, and the Sarah I loved from the previous books, deserved. The ending also reminded me a bit of Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien - Gollum may yet have a part to play in this... (paraphrase) - though only very loosely. Still it led it to be a bit anti-climactic.
And then there's one plot point that's bugging me. I can't really get into it because it's a huge spoiler, but...
If someone who's read this wants to talk spoilers - let me know.
January 22, 2012
This book just wasn't up to the same standards as the rest of the series. Problems were solved too quickly and easily to be realistic. It was like Lynn Kurland lost the motivation and momentum to finish the series with the same gusto as the rest of the books. I also didn't feel as attached to Ruith and Sarah and their plight as I did in previous books.
That being said, it was still an entertaining story, mostly because of the "guest" appearances and because I LOVED the other books in the series.
But mostly I'm left with a feeling of... that's it? What a boring ending...
2.75/5 stars.
That being said, it was still an entertaining story, mostly because of the "guest" appearances and because I LOVED the other books in the series.
But mostly I'm left with a feeling of... that's it? What a boring ending...
2.75/5 stars.
February 27, 2017
I was incredibly pleased that this was heaps better than the last two books in the series! It totally captured my interest from start to finish and I couldn't be happier about it. It was so interesting to finally see both groups merge together and meet each other, it made for some quite interesting situations! And then the chase for the spells and what finally awaited them at the end of the trail was just mind blowing! It was kind of hinted at all along but I honestly didn't see how it could really happen. The way it came about was believable though and I definitely can't wait to continue with this series and see where it goes from here!
January 11, 2012
I had never heard of Lynn Kurland until I came across the first book in the Nine Kingdoms series back in 2009. She writes historical/time travel romance and that's not a genre I read.
This is the last book in this trilogy and the sixth book in this series. I really, really wanted to love it. The first three books--Star of the Morning, The Mage's Daughter, and Princess of the Sword have become three of my favorite books. While they are not as detailed or intricate as most fantasy books I read, I fell in love with Morgan and Miach and their story. I heavily recommend the first three books for anyone who likes "clean" romance with a good story set in a fantastic world.
I had such high hopes for the next trilogy set in this world. Maybe I got too emotionally attached to the first set of characters, but I just couldn't get as into this story. It wasn't poorly written--in fact, the writing is beautiful--but the first book, A Tapestry of Spells, just didn't catch my interest as well as I expected. I enjoyed it, but I just wasn't that excited about it, if that makes sense. However, the second book, Spellweaver, redeemed this trilogy for me. I came to like the main characters of this story almost as much as those for. The first trilogy and anxiously waited for the conclusion to their story.
Gift of Magic was released on January 3, 2012 (my birthday). I immediately ordered it for my NOOK and read it in one sitting. Again, as I have come to expect from Lynn Kurland, the prose was beautiful throughout. Unfortunately, I was left with a feeling of disappointment in this volume. The characters in this book just felt much less substantial to me. The story felt like it rushed through to it's conclusion, and it felt like it wrapped up just a little too neatly. Of course I expected a happy ending, but there was very little tension. The final battle felt anticlimactic. I would give this 3 out of 5 stars for the prose and because I am attached to this world, but I felt...blah...when this book came to an end. There will be one last trilogy set in this world, and I hope it better done than this one.
This is the last book in this trilogy and the sixth book in this series. I really, really wanted to love it. The first three books--Star of the Morning, The Mage's Daughter, and Princess of the Sword have become three of my favorite books. While they are not as detailed or intricate as most fantasy books I read, I fell in love with Morgan and Miach and their story. I heavily recommend the first three books for anyone who likes "clean" romance with a good story set in a fantastic world.
I had such high hopes for the next trilogy set in this world. Maybe I got too emotionally attached to the first set of characters, but I just couldn't get as into this story. It wasn't poorly written--in fact, the writing is beautiful--but the first book, A Tapestry of Spells, just didn't catch my interest as well as I expected. I enjoyed it, but I just wasn't that excited about it, if that makes sense. However, the second book, Spellweaver, redeemed this trilogy for me. I came to like the main characters of this story almost as much as those for. The first trilogy and anxiously waited for the conclusion to their story.
Gift of Magic was released on January 3, 2012 (my birthday). I immediately ordered it for my NOOK and read it in one sitting. Again, as I have come to expect from Lynn Kurland, the prose was beautiful throughout. Unfortunately, I was left with a feeling of disappointment in this volume. The characters in this book just felt much less substantial to me. The story felt like it rushed through to it's conclusion, and it felt like it wrapped up just a little too neatly. Of course I expected a happy ending, but there was very little tension. The final battle felt anticlimactic. I would give this 3 out of 5 stars for the prose and because I am attached to this world, but I felt...blah...when this book came to an end. There will be one last trilogy set in this world, and I hope it better done than this one.
January 24, 2012
Okay, so I really love Lynn Kurland's writing...usually. I had a hard time with this book. Like a lot of people I read her books right when they come out. So I have read tons of books in the meantime and had a really, really hard time keeping track of who was who. The beginning of the book really needs a map to help us keep track of where we are, have been and going. AND, it would have been nice to have some sort of genealogy sheet at the beginning or end to remind us who is who like she has in her de Piaget, MacLeod series. I will have to re-read the last two books and then maybe change my rating.
June 30, 2014
4.5 stars!
Slightly disappointed by this book. I was expecting more of Sarah's heritage, as well as Ruith and Sarah's growing romance. Although the book was captivating, something was missing.
AND I totally knew was evil, it's always the person one tends to like (on the surface). I was also mildly surprised - although not really - that was alive, talk about annoying! I knew there was a possibility that he was alive, but seriously how did he survive?
Slightly disappointed by this book. I was expecting more of Sarah's heritage, as well as Ruith and Sarah's growing romance. Although the book was captivating, something was missing.
AND I totally knew was evil, it's always the person one tends to like (on the surface). I was also mildly surprised - although not really - that was alive, talk about annoying! I knew there was a possibility that he was alive, but seriously how did he survive?
May 29, 2012
I liked her fist books in this series, but in her last few she says the same thing over and over, I got really tired of how often the main male characters are belittled and threatened and the same information is given about characters over and over. I mostly just wanted to know how the series ended.
April 18, 2012
I have to agree with Beth's review on this one. It was definitely a sad let-down from how I had imagined the conclusion to be. I'm giving it a 3 because I love this series and love so many of the characters, but it did not live up to Lynn Kurland's usually very high standards of writing.
July 4, 2012
There was too much repetition in this final book, and it seemed to take forever for anything to happen. I was fighting boredom throughout most of it. I really love the rest of the Nine Kingdoms series; I just wish this book had lived up to the others!
December 18, 2017
#65 of 2017- Ruith and Sarah’s take is more repetitive than Miach and Morgan’s. It reminds me of an elongated encore, where character reprisals happen frequently. It does however set us up nicely for the next trilogy as far as exploration of the Nine Kingdoms.
March 3, 2012
My friend, Sarah Grass, wrote up her feelings on this book and I agree 100%. Please see her review. :)
September 19, 2017
This book kept me riveted and then wrapped things up in what felt "too easy" considering the build up. For this reason, I give it 4.4 out of five stars.
I enjoyed it and didn't like having to put it aside for daily living tasks. Still, I asked myself "what is the problem?" and it was clear the characters didn't know for certain until 2/3 through the book, although it was hinted at early on.
Several battles were fought "for them" rather than letting our characters face off with their foes. This deflated me. I wanted them to be able to succeed. And then in the end, they had to step outside their comfort zones to complete the "real" mission. It would have been satisfying if I had felt they were actually in peril during the climactic battle.
Kurland creates an intriguing fantasy world. I suppose the series continues to defeat the mage accused of "stealing and using" the dark spells. I'm not sure who will face off with said mage, as our duo is living quietly in their happily ever after.
I did appreciate that I could step into the middle of this series and enjoy a trilogy without feeling lost or wishing I'd started with book one. Because the first chapter of book one was in the back of my first book...and it didn't really draw me in. Maybe because I was already engaged with Sarah and Ruith.
This is an author I will happily read again. If you like your fantasy epic...but not so epic you have to jump between five or more characters in each book...you should give the Nine Kingdoms a look-see.
I enjoyed it and didn't like having to put it aside for daily living tasks. Still, I asked myself "what is the problem?" and it was clear the characters didn't know for certain until 2/3 through the book, although it was hinted at early on.
Several battles were fought "for them" rather than letting our characters face off with their foes. This deflated me. I wanted them to be able to succeed. And then in the end, they had to step outside their comfort zones to complete the "real" mission. It would have been satisfying if I had felt they were actually in peril during the climactic battle.
Kurland creates an intriguing fantasy world. I suppose the series continues to defeat the mage accused of "stealing and using" the dark spells. I'm not sure who will face off with said mage, as our duo is living quietly in their happily ever after.
I did appreciate that I could step into the middle of this series and enjoy a trilogy without feeling lost or wishing I'd started with book one. Because the first chapter of book one was in the back of my first book...and it didn't really draw me in. Maybe because I was already engaged with Sarah and Ruith.
This is an author I will happily read again. If you like your fantasy epic...but not so epic you have to jump between five or more characters in each book...you should give the Nine Kingdoms a look-see.
April 16, 2017
Sixth in the Nine Kingdoms fantasy adventure series revolving around the surviving children of a black mage. The focus is on Ruith and Sarah as they quest for the lost spells of Gair of Ceangail and save the Nine Kingdoms.
My Take
It's all in the best style of fairy tales with major characters living a peasant's life who turn out to be princesses and princes, and each has some major baddie after them. The twist is that the princess/prince is perfectly willing to hunt their own food and build their own fires as they continue on their quest.
It seems that Sarah is an intelligent perso,n so why would she purposely evade two separate spells meant to keep her safe when there's a nutso-whacko witch after her??
It's interesting to read the diplomatic maneuvering that Sìle and Miach use in manipulating Morag, although the Ruith and Sarah's journeying is somewhat confusing — I suspect because I haven't yet read Spellweaver , the fifth in the series.
It's a series of unexpected attacks, support and betrayal from unexpected sources, and royals with unexpected reality.
This is definitely a series you want to read in order and without too much time between novels. It can be confusing and sometimes vague, but Kurland creates charismatic characters you can't help but love, and it certainly does NOT lack action!
The Story
Sarah of Doìre knows the pattern of spells is no accident. With each page, each powerful rune, she and Ruith are being led somewhere, to someone — but by whom, she cannot tell. Her gift of sight only allows her to see the spells themselves, not the person behind them.
A weakness that leaves them woefully unprepared for the adversaries they'll face. One they cannot back away from, for Ruith's father's spells would plunge the Nine Kingdoms into an eternity of darkness if Gair's magic fell into the wrong hands.
But as they pursue the final spells — acquiring strange companions, welcome allies, and unexpected foes along the way — Sarah and Ruith realize that their true quest has only just begun. The real enemy is closer, darker, and more power hungry than they ever imagined; and until he is defeated, the fate of the Nine Kingdoms hangs in dire peril.
The Characters
Prince Ruithneadh "Ruith" of Ceangail is a powerful mage with the ability to shapeshift, Morgan's older brother, and the youngest son of Gair, "the most notorious black mage in the history of the Nine Kingdoms". His mother was Princess Sarait of Tòrr Dòrainn. King Sìle of Tòrr Dòrainn is Ruith and Morgan's elven grandfather; Brèagha his grandmother. Rùnach and Keir are other brothers.
Sarah, a dreamweaver with the gift of Seeing, intends to return the favor from Spellweaver . And Sarah has learned she is not the daughter of the witchwoman Seleg but the daughter of Sorcha and Athair of Cothromaiche. Queen Leaghra is Sorcha's aunt, and she's married to King Fréam of Bruadair. Franciscus, the alemaster of Doìre — and Sarah's grandfather!, is himself the grandson of King Seannair of Cothromaiche. Daniel of Doìre is not her evil brother.
Soilléir of Cothromaiche is a master wizard who lives in Buidseachd and plays keeper of the spells of essence changing; he's also Sarah's cousin.
The crown prince of of Tòrr Dòrainn is…
…Làidir, and his sons include Iarann the oldest and Thoir the youngest. They're also cousins to the children of Gair of Ceangail.
A group of Sarah's friends include…
…Ned, Sarah's farm boy; Master Oban, a wizard; and, Seirceil of Coibhneas.
King Mochriadhemiach "Miach" of Neroche is to be married to Mhorghain "Morgan", Ruith's younger sister. [Miach's parents were Queen Desdhemar and King Anghmar of Neroche. I think.] Ruith and Miach's childhood history continues to haunt their reception everywhere. Nemed and Mansourah are Miach's brothers.
Nicholas of Lismòr is the wizard king of Diarmailt. Tarbh and Ruathar are shapechanging horses. King Uachdaran is king of the dwarves. Lord Cuirmear of Taigh Hall is pleased to thwart Morag. The extremely rude, somewhat nasty Ardan of Ainneamh is one of the elves who helps.
The bastard sons of Gair include…
…Droch, Urchaid of Saothair, and possibly Wehr of Wrekin. Amitàn of Ceangail is one of the bastards' sons.
Queen Morag of An-uallach is determined to suck the magic out of every person capable of holding magic. Everyone wonders how her husband, Prince Phillip, has stayed with her.
The Cover and Title
The cover is bright in its colors and scattered flowers. Very painterly with a fairy tale feel in the elaborate castle nestled into the mountains in the background, and Ruith clad for travel, taking a very unbalanced step from behind a gigantic maple tree, his sword held upright, and a look of concentration on his face.
The title has both pluses and minuses as a Gift of Magic simply is, and it is up to each practitioner as to whether it is black or good.
My Take
It's all in the best style of fairy tales with major characters living a peasant's life who turn out to be princesses and princes, and each has some major baddie after them. The twist is that the princess/prince is perfectly willing to hunt their own food and build their own fires as they continue on their quest.
It seems that Sarah is an intelligent perso,n so why would she purposely evade two separate spells meant to keep her safe when there's a nutso-whacko witch after her??
It's interesting to read the diplomatic maneuvering that Sìle and Miach use in manipulating Morag, although the Ruith and Sarah's journeying is somewhat confusing — I suspect because I haven't yet read Spellweaver , the fifth in the series.
It's a series of unexpected attacks, support and betrayal from unexpected sources, and royals with unexpected reality.
This is definitely a series you want to read in order and without too much time between novels. It can be confusing and sometimes vague, but Kurland creates charismatic characters you can't help but love, and it certainly does NOT lack action!
The Story
Sarah of Doìre knows the pattern of spells is no accident. With each page, each powerful rune, she and Ruith are being led somewhere, to someone — but by whom, she cannot tell. Her gift of sight only allows her to see the spells themselves, not the person behind them.
A weakness that leaves them woefully unprepared for the adversaries they'll face. One they cannot back away from, for Ruith's father's spells would plunge the Nine Kingdoms into an eternity of darkness if Gair's magic fell into the wrong hands.
But as they pursue the final spells — acquiring strange companions, welcome allies, and unexpected foes along the way — Sarah and Ruith realize that their true quest has only just begun. The real enemy is closer, darker, and more power hungry than they ever imagined; and until he is defeated, the fate of the Nine Kingdoms hangs in dire peril.
The Characters
Prince Ruithneadh "Ruith" of Ceangail is a powerful mage with the ability to shapeshift, Morgan's older brother, and the youngest son of Gair, "the most notorious black mage in the history of the Nine Kingdoms". His mother was Princess Sarait of Tòrr Dòrainn. King Sìle of Tòrr Dòrainn is Ruith and Morgan's elven grandfather; Brèagha his grandmother. Rùnach and Keir are other brothers.
Sarah, a dreamweaver with the gift of Seeing, intends to return the favor from Spellweaver . And Sarah has learned she is not the daughter of the witchwoman Seleg but the daughter of Sorcha and Athair of Cothromaiche. Queen Leaghra is Sorcha's aunt, and she's married to King Fréam of Bruadair. Franciscus, the alemaster of Doìre — and Sarah's grandfather!, is himself the grandson of King Seannair of Cothromaiche. Daniel of Doìre is not her evil brother.
Soilléir of Cothromaiche is a master wizard who lives in Buidseachd and plays keeper of the spells of essence changing; he's also Sarah's cousin.
The crown prince of of Tòrr Dòrainn is…
…Làidir, and his sons include Iarann the oldest and Thoir the youngest. They're also cousins to the children of Gair of Ceangail.
A group of Sarah's friends include…
…Ned, Sarah's farm boy; Master Oban, a wizard; and, Seirceil of Coibhneas.
King Mochriadhemiach "Miach" of Neroche is to be married to Mhorghain "Morgan", Ruith's younger sister. [Miach's parents were Queen Desdhemar and King Anghmar of Neroche. I think.] Ruith and Miach's childhood history continues to haunt their reception everywhere. Nemed and Mansourah are Miach's brothers.
Nicholas of Lismòr is the wizard king of Diarmailt. Tarbh and Ruathar are shapechanging horses. King Uachdaran is king of the dwarves. Lord Cuirmear of Taigh Hall is pleased to thwart Morag. The extremely rude, somewhat nasty Ardan of Ainneamh is one of the elves who helps.
The bastard sons of Gair include…
…Droch, Urchaid of Saothair, and possibly Wehr of Wrekin. Amitàn of Ceangail is one of the bastards' sons.
Queen Morag of An-uallach is determined to suck the magic out of every person capable of holding magic. Everyone wonders how her husband, Prince Phillip, has stayed with her.
The Cover and Title
The cover is bright in its colors and scattered flowers. Very painterly with a fairy tale feel in the elaborate castle nestled into the mountains in the background, and Ruith clad for travel, taking a very unbalanced step from behind a gigantic maple tree, his sword held upright, and a look of concentration on his face.
The title has both pluses and minuses as a Gift of Magic simply is, and it is up to each practitioner as to whether it is black or good.
October 13, 2017
A nicely crafted conclusion for this trilogy (the second of three trilogies in the 9 Kingdoms series). Thanks to Kurland's great world building and fun character dialog, this last installment was enjoyable, but I feel Kurland is starting to get into a recycling mode from the first series a bit.
There is just enough difference from the first series, despite the reliable formula, to keep this interesting. While I enjoyed this trilogy, I felt a bit of "been there, done that". Also, everyone is "impossibly handsome", "painfully good looking", etc., etc. At some point I feel like the syrup gets too thick in this series and wish the characters had more flaws. Still, a fun read though and the character interaction is fun.
There is just enough difference from the first series, despite the reliable formula, to keep this interesting. While I enjoyed this trilogy, I felt a bit of "been there, done that". Also, everyone is "impossibly handsome", "painfully good looking", etc., etc. At some point I feel like the syrup gets too thick in this series and wish the characters had more flaws. Still, a fun read though and the character interaction is fun.
March 15, 2025
The Nine Kingdoms, Book 6
This is the third in the second trilogy of the Nine Kingdoms series, and a much more interesting read than the first trilogy. This series continues with Ruith, who is the youngest son of the Black Mage, Gair of Ceangil, and a Dreamspinner named Sarah who has no magic but can ‘see’ magic. Ruith is running from his past, Sarah is ignorant of her past, and the two embark on a quest that will force them to face their demons, real and imagined.
Fast paced and full of intrigue, shape changers, magic, and surprising discoveries along the way make for an entertaining read.
This is the third in the second trilogy of the Nine Kingdoms series, and a much more interesting read than the first trilogy. This series continues with Ruith, who is the youngest son of the Black Mage, Gair of Ceangil, and a Dreamspinner named Sarah who has no magic but can ‘see’ magic. Ruith is running from his past, Sarah is ignorant of her past, and the two embark on a quest that will force them to face their demons, real and imagined.
Fast paced and full of intrigue, shape changers, magic, and surprising discoveries along the way make for an entertaining read.
December 27, 2017
I can't believe that I'm actually going to give a Nine Kingdoms story only three stars. I don't WANT to give it three stars. Lynn Kurland is my favorite author, and these Nine Kingdom books are my favorites of her books. Besides, I wanted this book to be fantastic! I suspect some people will rate my review as "Not Helpful" for doing it, too. And yet, when I compare it against other books I've already reviewed (and even others she's written), I realize that it's less satisfying than others I've already rated 4-stars. And 3 1/2 stars isn't an option. So three it will be, unless I like it better (and catch stuff I missed) the second time through.
First, since I've provided this on all my other reviews of the series and I know it's helpful to new readers, here are the current Nine Kingdoms books (updated Jan '15):
Two Prelude short stories, found in anthologies with other authors:
- The Queen in Winter ("A Whisper of Spring" when Symon, the first king of Neroche, woos and wins Iolaire, princess of Ainneamh)
- To Weave a Web of Magic ("The Tale of Two Swords" where Mehar of Angesand and Gilraehen, --th king of Neroche, fall in love and the legendary sword of Angesand is forged.)
Miach and Morgan's story is told in:
1- Star of the Morning (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 1)
2- The Mage's Daughter (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 2)
3- Princess of the Sword (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 3)
Ruith and Sarah's story (which OVERLAPS Miach and Morgan's story in the timeline) is told in:
4- A Tapestry of Spells (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 4)
5- Spellweaver (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 5)
6- Gift of Magic (this book)
Runach and Aisling's story is being told in:
7- Dreamspinner (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 7)
8- River of Dreams (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 8)
9- Dreamer's Daughter (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 9)
So this book is the culmination of the second trilogy. There is no cliffhanger, and Ruithneadh of Caingail and Sarah of Diore (or maybe of somewhere else ::grins::) get their Happily-Ever-After.
Spellweaver ended with just a hint of what might be waiting at the end of Ruith and Sarah's quest. This story also focuses more on the continuation of Ruith's struggle within himself. His pride is pitted against his awareness that he wasted 20 years of practice and skill that he can't regain in a fortnight.
I'll warn readers who have read the first two...this story does not go quite where you think it's going to, or even where you might hope that it will. It didn't for me. I felt that it didn't live up to the promise that Spellweaver led me to anticipate. It's also a little confusing in a few places. (Which is a first for this author.)
But I did still enjoy parts of it very, very much. I still love Sarah's gift of seeing; I just wish she (and we) could have enjoyed it more. I like her ability to dreamweave; I just wish it had been explained and shown more clearly.
The quality of writing is still quite good, though some elements of plotting are less than what the author usually delivers (hence the bits of confusion in a few places). There is also a lot more repetition of words, phrases, and ideas than this author used to do. I hope this is not an increasing trend.
For the most part, the three-stars in this book go to the continuation and completion of Ruith's character arc. When the story began in A Tapestry of Spells, Ruith was still hiding and running from his 10-year-old self's horror at the idea of becoming anything like his father. In Spellweaver, he was beginning to realize how much his viewpoint needed to change. By the end of this book, Ruith has finally, completely, and realistically left that behind. He knows who he is... and it is neither the elvin prince who grew up in Seanegarra, nor the hermit on the mountain who buried and hid from his own magic. He is also not the man he feared he'd be.
There are also some really nice concepts to the plot in this story. I liked getting to know Sollier a little more, and I liked that this plot turned out to be NOTHING like Miach and Morgan's story.
The story looses two stars, however, because the romance between Ruith and Sarah never moves to the place where you can feel it. Sarah really doesn't grow much, and we're left wondering how much she really loves Ruith. We never do get to see Ruith use the power he was working on building (which makes me wonder why he was working to strengthen it). Put all that together, and the final showdown is very anti-climatic.
It really is a mix. Some aspects of the book I absolutely loved, while others just didn't fulfill the expectations set by the previous two books.
So, to sum up, those who felt the showdown at the end of Princess of the Sword was anti-climatic will feel far more disappointed on this one. Those who were hoping to see Ruith flex his magical powers will also be disappointed. But those who enjoy a very mild romance and a story that follows a character who explores and tests the depths of his past and his own character should enjoy it.
I'll add one more note: We get to know just a tiny bit more about Rùnach in this one...and Lynn said on her forums that the next trilogy will be Rùnach's. With the tantalizing bits of promise we're given here, I'm really hoping that the next trilogy will have the greatness that the first trilogy did.
First, since I've provided this on all my other reviews of the series and I know it's helpful to new readers, here are the current Nine Kingdoms books (updated Jan '15):
Two Prelude short stories, found in anthologies with other authors:
- The Queen in Winter ("A Whisper of Spring" when Symon, the first king of Neroche, woos and wins Iolaire, princess of Ainneamh)
- To Weave a Web of Magic ("The Tale of Two Swords" where Mehar of Angesand and Gilraehen, --th king of Neroche, fall in love and the legendary sword of Angesand is forged.)
Miach and Morgan's story is told in:
1- Star of the Morning (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 1)
2- The Mage's Daughter (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 2)
3- Princess of the Sword (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 3)
Ruith and Sarah's story (which OVERLAPS Miach and Morgan's story in the timeline) is told in:
4- A Tapestry of Spells (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 4)
5- Spellweaver (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 5)
6- Gift of Magic (this book)
Runach and Aisling's story is being told in:
7- Dreamspinner (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 7)
8- River of Dreams (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 8)
9- Dreamer's Daughter (The Nine Kingdoms, Book 9)
So this book is the culmination of the second trilogy. There is no cliffhanger, and Ruithneadh of Caingail and Sarah of Diore (or maybe of somewhere else ::grins::) get their Happily-Ever-After.
Spellweaver ended with just a hint of what might be waiting at the end of Ruith and Sarah's quest. This story also focuses more on the continuation of Ruith's struggle within himself. His pride is pitted against his awareness that he wasted 20 years of practice and skill that he can't regain in a fortnight.
I'll warn readers who have read the first two...this story does not go quite where you think it's going to, or even where you might hope that it will. It didn't for me. I felt that it didn't live up to the promise that Spellweaver led me to anticipate. It's also a little confusing in a few places. (Which is a first for this author.)
But I did still enjoy parts of it very, very much. I still love Sarah's gift of seeing; I just wish she (and we) could have enjoyed it more. I like her ability to dreamweave; I just wish it had been explained and shown more clearly.
The quality of writing is still quite good, though some elements of plotting are less than what the author usually delivers (hence the bits of confusion in a few places). There is also a lot more repetition of words, phrases, and ideas than this author used to do. I hope this is not an increasing trend.
For the most part, the three-stars in this book go to the continuation and completion of Ruith's character arc. When the story began in A Tapestry of Spells, Ruith was still hiding and running from his 10-year-old self's horror at the idea of becoming anything like his father. In Spellweaver, he was beginning to realize how much his viewpoint needed to change. By the end of this book, Ruith has finally, completely, and realistically left that behind. He knows who he is... and it is neither the elvin prince who grew up in Seanegarra, nor the hermit on the mountain who buried and hid from his own magic. He is also not the man he feared he'd be.
There are also some really nice concepts to the plot in this story. I liked getting to know Sollier a little more, and I liked that this plot turned out to be NOTHING like Miach and Morgan's story.
The story looses two stars, however, because the romance between Ruith and Sarah never moves to the place where you can feel it. Sarah really doesn't grow much, and we're left wondering how much she really loves Ruith. We never do get to see Ruith use the power he was working on building (which makes me wonder why he was working to strengthen it). Put all that together, and the final showdown is very anti-climatic.
It really is a mix. Some aspects of the book I absolutely loved, while others just didn't fulfill the expectations set by the previous two books.
So, to sum up, those who felt the showdown at the end of Princess of the Sword was anti-climatic will feel far more disappointed on this one. Those who were hoping to see Ruith flex his magical powers will also be disappointed. But those who enjoy a very mild romance and a story that follows a character who explores and tests the depths of his past and his own character should enjoy it.
I'll add one more note: We get to know just a tiny bit more about Rùnach in this one...and Lynn said on her forums that the next trilogy will be Rùnach's. With the tantalizing bits of promise we're given here, I'm really hoping that the next trilogy will have the greatness that the first trilogy did.
December 28, 2012
Just to get myself, and other’s who are interested in reading this series up to speed with Ms. Kurland’s phenomenal writing, world building, magic, and characters–I am mixing in content from a review I wrote for a previous installment of this series.
To begin, I must reiterate that Lynn Kurland has a phonetic style of pen that I have seen very rarely in literature, if ever. As a reader coming strictly from the Epic Fantasy genre, having never read romance until about 11 years ago, I can appreciate the beautiful love story woven within Kurland’s fantasy novels. Not sex, but the soul deep connection forming between a couple. Consisting of tangible emotion, and a blazing bond of two hearts. It is both endearing and sweet in its chasteness, but with no less strength, or intensity. Within this world of the Nine Kingdoms, born of Ms. Kurland’s very own, vividly bright imagination, this signature mix of lyrical ebb and flow, to that of the old world, “clean” romance—adds complete authenticity to the experience.
There is nothing I enjoy reading more, than a wholly original, character driven work of fantasy. These novels certainly are such, as well as being emotionally charged, brimming with the key elements of pulse pounding action, heartwarming romance, and laughing out loud humor. Rich with twisting threads of plot, that will keep you guessing with each page you turn, and incredible chemistry charging between main and secondary characters. In addition, the many different natures of magic that exists within this realm, is vastly intriguing, and a different spin to the other depictions I have read in this genre. Every nuance clicks into place perfectly, making the Nine Kingdom’s series one of those rare works in literature, that truly has something for any type of reader to enjoy.
In the previous installments, we learn that our hero Ruith has suffered terrible gut wrenching loss. Because of this, he buried the vast well of magic within him as deeply as he could, and created a new home, and identity for himself. This shift in destiny was all realized at the tender age of ten. We readers are shown the horrors this man has suffered through the platform of his nightmares. We are made aware of the shadows lurking within his blood line, and it is apparent that at some point in his brutal life, Ruith could have gone either direction, good or evil.
This fact is learned upon discovery that Ruith is not a simple swordsman masquerading as an ancient hermit sorcerer; living amongst the mountains. He is actually Prince Ruithneadh of Ceangail, the youngest son of Gair–who’s reign of terror labels, as the most notorious and evil black mage in the history of the Nine Kingdoms. Despite the darkness he believes lies within him, Ruith is unquestionably honorable, and has an immense sense of duty. He takes the task upon himself; of collecting his father’s scattered spells, and destroying them. An effort to prevent these dark entities from falling into the wrong hands, and casting the Nine Kingdoms into eternal darkness.
Since the journey began in Tapestry of Spells, Ruith has aided Sarah of Doire, in her quest to stop her brother’s nefarious ploy. Despite having never been shown kindness, warmth, or tenderness—our heroine has a compassionate, fiercely honorable, and selflessly giving nature. It is through Sarah’s point of view that the unique magic system of the Nine Kingdoms series comes to life. I was blown away by Kurland’s detailed descriptions of what spells “look like.” In example; readers can discern the beauty of Ruith’s magic, in contrast to the repugnant glimpses of some others–and this added a rare level of intrigue to the journey that was absent in the first trilogy.
It is upon this discovery that Sarah can “see” spells, that she decides to return the favor granted to her. Helping Ruith find these terrible magic’s derived from a truly evil mind, so that they may be lain to rest forever. Both characters start out with their own sense of duty as the force which drives them….both characters continue on with the ulterior motive of simply wanting to remain close to the other.
As much as I utterly adored every novel of this fantastic series…Gift of Magic stood apart. Unlike the brilliant crescendo of Morgan and Miach’s journey, Ruith and Sarah’s journey began more slowly, gradually adding notes, until it was apparent something largely unexpected and profound was about to happen. Because of this slower build of action, the beginning of Gift of Magic had my heart pounding unlike any of the others. The highly anticipated meeting between Ruith and someone dear from his past (of whom had no inkling he was alive) was not how I imagined it would happen, but profound all the same. Likewise, where a reader could nearly predict how Princess of Swords would end, the ending of Gift of Magic had me reeling in surprise. It was this ending specifically, more than any others; that Ms. Kurland’s imagination blew me away.
Both completed trilogies of the Nine Kingdoms series end on a high note, and leave readers completely satisfied with the outcome…but it is the third trilogy that we see a beloved secondary character step into the spotlight. I cannot wait to see where Lynn Kurland transports us next within her newest release DreamSpinner.
Review also available at www.threadingcafe.com
To begin, I must reiterate that Lynn Kurland has a phonetic style of pen that I have seen very rarely in literature, if ever. As a reader coming strictly from the Epic Fantasy genre, having never read romance until about 11 years ago, I can appreciate the beautiful love story woven within Kurland’s fantasy novels. Not sex, but the soul deep connection forming between a couple. Consisting of tangible emotion, and a blazing bond of two hearts. It is both endearing and sweet in its chasteness, but with no less strength, or intensity. Within this world of the Nine Kingdoms, born of Ms. Kurland’s very own, vividly bright imagination, this signature mix of lyrical ebb and flow, to that of the old world, “clean” romance—adds complete authenticity to the experience.
There is nothing I enjoy reading more, than a wholly original, character driven work of fantasy. These novels certainly are such, as well as being emotionally charged, brimming with the key elements of pulse pounding action, heartwarming romance, and laughing out loud humor. Rich with twisting threads of plot, that will keep you guessing with each page you turn, and incredible chemistry charging between main and secondary characters. In addition, the many different natures of magic that exists within this realm, is vastly intriguing, and a different spin to the other depictions I have read in this genre. Every nuance clicks into place perfectly, making the Nine Kingdom’s series one of those rare works in literature, that truly has something for any type of reader to enjoy.
In the previous installments, we learn that our hero Ruith has suffered terrible gut wrenching loss. Because of this, he buried the vast well of magic within him as deeply as he could, and created a new home, and identity for himself. This shift in destiny was all realized at the tender age of ten. We readers are shown the horrors this man has suffered through the platform of his nightmares. We are made aware of the shadows lurking within his blood line, and it is apparent that at some point in his brutal life, Ruith could have gone either direction, good or evil.
This fact is learned upon discovery that Ruith is not a simple swordsman masquerading as an ancient hermit sorcerer; living amongst the mountains. He is actually Prince Ruithneadh of Ceangail, the youngest son of Gair–who’s reign of terror labels, as the most notorious and evil black mage in the history of the Nine Kingdoms. Despite the darkness he believes lies within him, Ruith is unquestionably honorable, and has an immense sense of duty. He takes the task upon himself; of collecting his father’s scattered spells, and destroying them. An effort to prevent these dark entities from falling into the wrong hands, and casting the Nine Kingdoms into eternal darkness.
Since the journey began in Tapestry of Spells, Ruith has aided Sarah of Doire, in her quest to stop her brother’s nefarious ploy. Despite having never been shown kindness, warmth, or tenderness—our heroine has a compassionate, fiercely honorable, and selflessly giving nature. It is through Sarah’s point of view that the unique magic system of the Nine Kingdoms series comes to life. I was blown away by Kurland’s detailed descriptions of what spells “look like.” In example; readers can discern the beauty of Ruith’s magic, in contrast to the repugnant glimpses of some others–and this added a rare level of intrigue to the journey that was absent in the first trilogy.
It is upon this discovery that Sarah can “see” spells, that she decides to return the favor granted to her. Helping Ruith find these terrible magic’s derived from a truly evil mind, so that they may be lain to rest forever. Both characters start out with their own sense of duty as the force which drives them….both characters continue on with the ulterior motive of simply wanting to remain close to the other.
As much as I utterly adored every novel of this fantastic series…Gift of Magic stood apart. Unlike the brilliant crescendo of Morgan and Miach’s journey, Ruith and Sarah’s journey began more slowly, gradually adding notes, until it was apparent something largely unexpected and profound was about to happen. Because of this slower build of action, the beginning of Gift of Magic had my heart pounding unlike any of the others. The highly anticipated meeting between Ruith and someone dear from his past (of whom had no inkling he was alive) was not how I imagined it would happen, but profound all the same. Likewise, where a reader could nearly predict how Princess of Swords would end, the ending of Gift of Magic had me reeling in surprise. It was this ending specifically, more than any others; that Ms. Kurland’s imagination blew me away.
Both completed trilogies of the Nine Kingdoms series end on a high note, and leave readers completely satisfied with the outcome…but it is the third trilogy that we see a beloved secondary character step into the spotlight. I cannot wait to see where Lynn Kurland transports us next within her newest release DreamSpinner.
Review also available at www.threadingcafe.com
June 25, 2017
This book was okay. I honestly had a hard time getting hooked on it, but I was desperate to find out what happened to Gair. The hard thing for me was that the characters seemed dull and dim. And the litany of words that ensued gave me a headache at points. This was not a great book, but not the worst and it did close Ruith and Sarah's story well.
December 29, 2020
Not sure why, but this book felt incredibly slow. I ended up taking a break to read a favorite book in the middle because it just didn’t hold my interest. I found both Sarah and Ruith to be a bit boring and hard to understand. They needed something to make me like them. I found I was actually more interested in secondary characters than them by the end.
January 20, 2019
More of a 4.5. I love this series. Such beautifully woven stories.
September 22, 2021
this is a series of 9 books, the first 3 were a story and the second 3 a story.
June 11, 2025
entirely too many antagonists who all undercut each other but its just a warm hug of a book i love ruith and sarahs gentle happily ever after so much
March 5, 2021
What a lovely end to Sarah and Ruith’s story! Again, I loved the wonderful, action packed pacing in this book. It was wonderful to have Miach and Morghainn back in the story and to learn more about Sarah’s past and abilities. There were some twists at the end that I was expecting and some that I wasn’t! Super satisfying ending to this trilogy.
January 9, 2015
Today's post is on Gift of Magic by Lynn Kurland. It is the third book in her second Nine Kingdoms trilogies. It is 310 pages long and is published by Berkley Sensation. The cover has one of the main character's on it looking ready for a fight. There is no sex, no language, but some fantasy action in this book. The story is told from the third person close perspective of the two main character's moving from one chapter to the next. There Be Spoilers Ahead.
From the back of the book- Sarah of Doire knows the pattern of spells is no accident. With each page, each powerful rune, she and Ruith are being led somewhere, to someone- but by whom, she cannot tell. Sarah's gift of sight only allows her to see the spells themselves, not the person behind them.
A reluctant sorcerer still earning to trust his own magic, Ruithneadh of Ceangail knows he's woefully unprepared for the adversaries they'll face. But he and Sarah must collect and destroy his father's Gair's spells soon. Many mages seek their power, and in the wrong hands, Gair's magic would plunge the Nine Kingdoms into an eternity of darkness.
But as they purse the final spells- acquiring strange companions, welcome allies, and unexpected foes along the way- Sarah and Ruith realize that their true quest has only just begun. The real enemy is closer, darker, and more power hungry than they every imagined, and until he is defeated, the fate of the Nine Kingdoms hands in dire peril.
Review- This was a great way to end the second trilogy. Ruith and Sarah get their happy ending and threads for the next trilogy are in place. The action is very fast paced in this one. With all questions answered the answers are interesting. I think that the only one who died at the well was Ruith's mother. Ruith makes peace with himself. He realizes that just because he is his father's son, he is not his father. Sarah does not get as much comfort in this volume. I think that she is just is going to do her best and dim her sight when she can. The only thing that we still do not know is what a dreamweaver is. But we do get to see some of what Sarah can do. She is the one who stopped Gair from winning in the end. She unleashed the light inside her and stopped him. The writing is so imaginative. The magic is powerful and at times scary. The setting is so fun and beautiful. I look forward to reading the next trilogy.
I give this book a Five out of Five stars. I get nothing for my review and I bought this book with my own money.
January 7, 2012
Lynn Kurland out does herself in this final installment of her second trilogy in the Nine Kingdoms Series. From what I understand she plans on doing three trilogies all intertwining and yet can be read in any order. After reading the first trilogy, I will say it works beautifully with the second one. We get glimpses of what is going on throughout the Nine Kingdoms as we see some favorites from the first trilogy.. but it manages to avoid any confusion.
As Ruithneadh of Ceangail and Sarah of Doire continue on their quest things begin to heat up. The story goes from a gentle watercolor to a vibrant intense oil. Vibrant and alive with rich characters and exotic plotlines.. A Gift of Magic takes up right where SpellWeaver takes off. Ruith the reluctant magician and Sarah the girl who sees.. but has no magic are trying to find Ruith’s father’s book of evil spells.. An evil of such magnitude that anyone who holds them for too long can be maddened. Their quest is to find each individual page and when they have the entire book then to destroy it.
Of course there are many who would prefer they not succeed.. from a witch who thinks she can take Sarah’s powers (of which she has none) to Ruith’s evil half brothers, to other Mage’s that want to capture the book and use it for their own purpose.. They have learned one thing, trust no one and yet they must.
Ruith and Sarah have to deal with meddling relatives who all have their own agendas, deal with reuniting with lost love ones and with learning to discover and depend on each other. While they hold strong in their attachment to each other, there are those who wonder if this is the best match. Be set on all sides..
While this books started off with the gentle song of the first book the crescendo gradually grows.. Ms Kurland direct her character like the Maestro she is.. There are many people who are not who they claim to be, others aren’t as bad as you think they are and still others that offer a deep betrayal. Proving that evil is...
All this culminates into a wonderful surprise ending and an enchanting promise. I can not wait to see who the third trilogy is about. Ms Kurland has fast become a favored author of mine with this series.
Shauni
Tea and Book
As Ruithneadh of Ceangail and Sarah of Doire continue on their quest things begin to heat up. The story goes from a gentle watercolor to a vibrant intense oil. Vibrant and alive with rich characters and exotic plotlines.. A Gift of Magic takes up right where SpellWeaver takes off. Ruith the reluctant magician and Sarah the girl who sees.. but has no magic are trying to find Ruith’s father’s book of evil spells.. An evil of such magnitude that anyone who holds them for too long can be maddened. Their quest is to find each individual page and when they have the entire book then to destroy it.
Of course there are many who would prefer they not succeed.. from a witch who thinks she can take Sarah’s powers (of which she has none) to Ruith’s evil half brothers, to other Mage’s that want to capture the book and use it for their own purpose.. They have learned one thing, trust no one and yet they must.
Ruith and Sarah have to deal with meddling relatives who all have their own agendas, deal with reuniting with lost love ones and with learning to discover and depend on each other. While they hold strong in their attachment to each other, there are those who wonder if this is the best match. Be set on all sides..
While this books started off with the gentle song of the first book the crescendo gradually grows.. Ms Kurland direct her character like the Maestro she is.. There are many people who are not who they claim to be, others aren’t as bad as you think they are and still others that offer a deep betrayal. Proving that evil is...
All this culminates into a wonderful surprise ending and an enchanting promise. I can not wait to see who the third trilogy is about. Ms Kurland has fast become a favored author of mine with this series.
Shauni
Tea and Book
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