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Weald Fae Journals #1
The Steward
Maggie O’Shea expected the worst when her family relocated from the lively beaches of Boca Raton to the secluded forests of the Ozark Mountains. What she didn’t expect was a new beginning – one full of Fae, magical powers, dangerous physical and mental trials, and two surprisingly gorgeous young men. These aren’t the fairies you’re familiar with, but dangerous superpowers embroiled in an enduring struggle among themselves over the fate of all humanity. Some want to protect us, and others would love nothing more than to see us, and especially fifteen-year-old Maggie, dead and buried. Now, torn between her new duties as Steward of the most sacred Fae land and her burgeoning love for Gavin, a powerful Fae, Maggie must fight to protect her family, her friends, herself, and the fate of the entire world.
Join Maggie as she learns that fairy lore is not as far from the truth as she had believed, but neither is it anything like the tales in books or movies. As she navigates the treacherous schemes of the magical Fae, Maggie must become a quick study if she hopes to protect the lives of many, and possibly all, people from the insidious plot the Unseelie Fae have planned for centuries.
The Steward is the first book in the four part series: the Weald Fae Journals by Christopher Shields.
Join Maggie as she learns that fairy lore is not as far from the truth as she had believed, but neither is it anything like the tales in books or movies. As she navigates the treacherous schemes of the magical Fae, Maggie must become a quick study if she hopes to protect the lives of many, and possibly all, people from the insidious plot the Unseelie Fae have planned for centuries.
The Steward is the first book in the four part series: the Weald Fae Journals by Christopher Shields.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2012
36 people are currently reading
4015 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Shields
9 books232 followersChristopher Shields lives in Northwest Arkansas with his family and three dogs. Following what he considers to be his calling, he is a professor of criminal justice at the University of Arkansas, in Fayetteville. He loves working with students during the day, and writing at night. Christopher also enjoys spending time with his circle of close friends, playing his sax, and indulging his life-long passion for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
Founder of the Goodreads Group: Modern Good Reads
Founder of the Goodreads Group: Modern Good Reads
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
January 8, 2013
I started reading this novel through the holidays. It dragged me back to its pages despite all the holiday insanity. I launched one of my own novels Christmas day, camped in front of my PC for hours, but I couldn't escape this book. I kept trying to find the time to snatch a few more minutes of reading.
About a 1/3 of the way in I was thoroughly seduced by the 2700 acre Weald. I found myself contemplating the purchase of real estate in Arkansas, and I've never been there. The author transported me to this enchanting countryside through three whole seasons of the year. Forestry, islands, country cottages, gardens, cliffs, caves, I could see it all crystal clear in my mind's eye.
The tale is an enthralling read about teenage Maggie's discovery that what she thought was a dead-end backwoods life in Arkansas is actually a secret sanctuary of the Weald Fae, a.k.a. Fairies. But these are not little Tinkerbelle pixie wing creatures. These are the demigods of old, masters of the elements. The Fae are extremely powerful, and not overly fond of mankind. Trespassers on the Weald property find horrible misfortune. And this brave teenage girl Maggie has been entrapped into a position of great responsibility and peril as the new Steward of the Weald.
It's a coming-of-age romance, an awesome supernatural thriller. It's a young adult paranormal fantasy. It's a damn good book for just about anyone of any age. I can't help but wish this was a movie.
And of course, I must read the second in the series, "The Changeling". The ending guarantees you cannot live without reading the next book. Hooked on the Weald.
About a 1/3 of the way in I was thoroughly seduced by the 2700 acre Weald. I found myself contemplating the purchase of real estate in Arkansas, and I've never been there. The author transported me to this enchanting countryside through three whole seasons of the year. Forestry, islands, country cottages, gardens, cliffs, caves, I could see it all crystal clear in my mind's eye.
The tale is an enthralling read about teenage Maggie's discovery that what she thought was a dead-end backwoods life in Arkansas is actually a secret sanctuary of the Weald Fae, a.k.a. Fairies. But these are not little Tinkerbelle pixie wing creatures. These are the demigods of old, masters of the elements. The Fae are extremely powerful, and not overly fond of mankind. Trespassers on the Weald property find horrible misfortune. And this brave teenage girl Maggie has been entrapped into a position of great responsibility and peril as the new Steward of the Weald.
It's a coming-of-age romance, an awesome supernatural thriller. It's a young adult paranormal fantasy. It's a damn good book for just about anyone of any age. I can't help but wish this was a movie.
And of course, I must read the second in the series, "The Changeling". The ending guarantees you cannot live without reading the next book. Hooked on the Weald.
December 9, 2012
I really should dislike Christopher Shields. I never have enough time on my hands and diverting my attention to what I expect to be a YA book is not how I want to send my time these days. But I started it and therein lay my first mistake.The story grabbed me, the style of writing grabbed me and the characters grabbed me. I'm tempted to sue for assault.
Maggie is forced to move from her home in Florida to Arkansas where the family will live with a relative of her father's. The relative, (Aunt May) is the Steward of the Weald, the land she owns and on which her house is situated. Maggie is to be the next Steward but she has to pass certain tests first. Someone really doesn't want her to pass them and is prepared to go to any lengths to hurt her, her family and her friends to stop her. This someone is Unseelie Fae and though she has Seelie Fae friends, it's not clear they're all on her side either.
The books moves steadily from action to action with barely a break but you're never given time to become bored or confused by the story. It's perfectly crafted.
I thought to read a couple of chapters a night of this and give it no thought until I next opened up my Kindle for PC. Instead I've been stuck on this chair for hours unable to break away until I fall asleep over the keyboard. If this were a book in my hands it would be UNPUTDOWNABLE. Christopher Shields is a top Author with all the skills of a Tolkien. I have no choice now but to read the second book to carry on the story. I tell you, I hate the man.
Maggie is forced to move from her home in Florida to Arkansas where the family will live with a relative of her father's. The relative, (Aunt May) is the Steward of the Weald, the land she owns and on which her house is situated. Maggie is to be the next Steward but she has to pass certain tests first. Someone really doesn't want her to pass them and is prepared to go to any lengths to hurt her, her family and her friends to stop her. This someone is Unseelie Fae and though she has Seelie Fae friends, it's not clear they're all on her side either.
The books moves steadily from action to action with barely a break but you're never given time to become bored or confused by the story. It's perfectly crafted.
I thought to read a couple of chapters a night of this and give it no thought until I next opened up my Kindle for PC. Instead I've been stuck on this chair for hours unable to break away until I fall asleep over the keyboard. If this were a book in my hands it would be UNPUTDOWNABLE. Christopher Shields is a top Author with all the skills of a Tolkien. I have no choice now but to read the second book to carry on the story. I tell you, I hate the man.
June 3, 2013
This book was straight. Ill be generous and give it the four star rating.
3.5 is my real rating for The Steward
The Steward starts of extremely slow, it really starts to pick up about half way through.
The main character can be a complete dumbass at times, but whats new? Its YA.
I did like the world and the different take on the Fae.
The lack of logic behind some of the characters actions kept taking me out of the book.
I think I have read too much YA and now I get annoyed by the small things easily (Mainly dumb characters)
3.5 is my real rating for The Steward
The Steward starts of extremely slow, it really starts to pick up about half way through.
The main character can be a complete dumbass at times, but whats new? Its YA.
I did like the world and the different take on the Fae.
The lack of logic behind some of the characters actions kept taking me out of the book.
I think I have read too much YA and now I get annoyed by the small things easily (Mainly dumb characters)
July 24, 2013
Mr. Shields interweaves a rich, fantastical world with the fabric of our own, creating a new reality which exists just under the surface of the mundane, invisible to all but a few. The Steward is a well-written book with fascinating story line. Its intricate plot reveals a complex supernatural world of Fae—or fairies, as we know them—living among humans, influencing us, and in some cases, fighting over whether or not they should exterminate us. Maggie, the protagonist, unwillingly falls headlong into this world, and those closest to her end up paying the price. Maggie was strong and likeable. I love female characters that are tough, intelligent and resourceful, and Maggie doesn’t disappoint! In fact, Mr. Shield’s book is full of interesting, believable characters with depth and quirks. I found I could connect with them instantly. The Steward is proof that the term YA refers to the age of the protagonist and not the book’s reading level or overall tone. This was a fun book, but with language that was mature and a style of writing that was polished and compelling. I enjoyed it immensely and will, without a doubt, be continuing on with this series.
September 28, 2013
“The Steward (Weald Fae Journals, Book1)” by Christopher Shields is an excellent and magical piece of fantasy fiction. In an Arkansas forest of the Fae, the Weald, the human world edges on to the world of fairies and nature’s elements. Maggie, a teenager, comes to live there and is chosen by the ‘council’ to be their next steward.
What follows is a delightful labour of love about Maggie’s duties and her training as steward, about the tribes, their characters, the mythical and magic world and Maggie’s place in it. All the while the young woman is of flesh and blood with morals and also some teenage crushes. Maggie is a wonderful character, written with much affection and obvious care. We relate to her instantly, we celebrate her victories, we feel sorry for her disappointments and we see this great exciting world with her loving and youthful eyes.
Shields has created a unique and wonderful world populated by fascinating and engaging creatures and characters, both good and bad; the story has a hint of romance, suspense and lots of fairies in it. I loved the concept of differing and individual powers and the elemental (earth, ether etc) aspect to the creatures. I also loved the amount of detail in which the world of the Fae is being described and even properly introduced, almost like a short history or an almanac of the species and its mythological origins and traditions. As only occasional visitor to the genre I found myself surprised at the way I was drawn into this world, losing myself in it despite being an often too rational man for fantasy stories.
Perfectly crafted, plotted and with an expertly smooth flow of beautiful prose the book is palatable and comfortable to read. Knowing the author as a rational and intellectual man from an author’s forum I was stunned at the playfulness of the novel and the enchanting character of the writing and the obvious versatility of the creator’s mind.
If you are a fan of the fantasy genre or fairy stories this is a must read, there is no two ways about it. If you know someone who isn’t sure about the genre but would like to try, I would recommend this book to them. Above all is it great fun to read.
What follows is a delightful labour of love about Maggie’s duties and her training as steward, about the tribes, their characters, the mythical and magic world and Maggie’s place in it. All the while the young woman is of flesh and blood with morals and also some teenage crushes. Maggie is a wonderful character, written with much affection and obvious care. We relate to her instantly, we celebrate her victories, we feel sorry for her disappointments and we see this great exciting world with her loving and youthful eyes.
Shields has created a unique and wonderful world populated by fascinating and engaging creatures and characters, both good and bad; the story has a hint of romance, suspense and lots of fairies in it. I loved the concept of differing and individual powers and the elemental (earth, ether etc) aspect to the creatures. I also loved the amount of detail in which the world of the Fae is being described and even properly introduced, almost like a short history or an almanac of the species and its mythological origins and traditions. As only occasional visitor to the genre I found myself surprised at the way I was drawn into this world, losing myself in it despite being an often too rational man for fantasy stories.
Perfectly crafted, plotted and with an expertly smooth flow of beautiful prose the book is palatable and comfortable to read. Knowing the author as a rational and intellectual man from an author’s forum I was stunned at the playfulness of the novel and the enchanting character of the writing and the obvious versatility of the creator’s mind.
If you are a fan of the fantasy genre or fairy stories this is a must read, there is no two ways about it. If you know someone who isn’t sure about the genre but would like to try, I would recommend this book to them. Above all is it great fun to read.
March 21, 2013
“The Steward” by Christopher Shields is the first book in the “Weald Fae Journals”, a series aimed at young adults.
Sadly, I find many of today’s fantasy writers sloppy and lazy in constructing their ‘worlds’, but Shields has clearly put a lot of thought and time into his portrayal of the shadow side of our otherwise-familiar planet. His ‘fae’ – ‘fairies’ to the uninitiated – are immortal creatures of pure energy. They can, however, take physical form, and when they do so they become endowed with powers to alter and manipulate matter and elemental forces.
The author carefully interweaves the familiar with the mystical, leading the reader by the hand so that he is by degrees drawn into an universe which would otherwise be incomprehensible.
The story is morally unambiguous (if we put to one side the infatuation of a teenage girl with a 130,000 year-old-being), so we are left in no doubt as to who are the goodies and who are the baddies. The plot-line has been carefully orchestrated and Shields steadily builds tension as the guardian-elect of the fae lands is put through a series of trials and the stakes grow higher.
The “Weald Fae Journals” series has the potential to be huge, and you may want to get on board now while it’s still in its early stages.
Sadly, I find many of today’s fantasy writers sloppy and lazy in constructing their ‘worlds’, but Shields has clearly put a lot of thought and time into his portrayal of the shadow side of our otherwise-familiar planet. His ‘fae’ – ‘fairies’ to the uninitiated – are immortal creatures of pure energy. They can, however, take physical form, and when they do so they become endowed with powers to alter and manipulate matter and elemental forces.
The author carefully interweaves the familiar with the mystical, leading the reader by the hand so that he is by degrees drawn into an universe which would otherwise be incomprehensible.
The story is morally unambiguous (if we put to one side the infatuation of a teenage girl with a 130,000 year-old-being), so we are left in no doubt as to who are the goodies and who are the baddies. The plot-line has been carefully orchestrated and Shields steadily builds tension as the guardian-elect of the fae lands is put through a series of trials and the stakes grow higher.
The “Weald Fae Journals” series has the potential to be huge, and you may want to get on board now while it’s still in its early stages.
October 22, 2012
Maggie O’Shea's life has seemingly turned disastrous; at fifteen, she's been jerked out her Boca Raton beach life and plunked into the Ozark Mountains in the middle of nowhere. Okay, so there is this hunky neighbor, Gavin, to distract her, and she does make some new friends, but she still longs to return to her old life.
What she soon learns, however, is that the forest is chock full of faeries, and she is a key player in a power struggle between warring factions. And when faeries fight, they don't always do so fairly
This book is a great read for any age, even though it is categorized as a Young Adult romance. While I do not normally read YA, I was delighted with this well-written Faerie tale, and look forward to the sequel.
What she soon learns, however, is that the forest is chock full of faeries, and she is a key player in a power struggle between warring factions. And when faeries fight, they don't always do so fairly
This book is a great read for any age, even though it is categorized as a Young Adult romance. While I do not normally read YA, I was delighted with this well-written Faerie tale, and look forward to the sequel.
November 24, 2012
A must read for anyone who loves magic and adventure. Any word, short of awesome cannot describe this book, I loved it. The author creates a timeless tale, which speaks to old and young alike, seamlessly weaving the simultaneous macabre and splendor singsong of Celtic and Ozark folklore together with the modern world. His storyline balances the real life challenges of the story's teenage heroine Maggie (she is the chosen one, but I will say no more, you have to read this book) with the realm of the otherworld or fae, as well or even better than more widely known writers promoted by major publishers. The tension of Maggie's real life struggle to blend in at school after moving from Florida and her discovery the secret fae under otherworld in modern day Eureka Springs makes this book flow through the chapters as fast any of the stories vintage cars snaking through the winding switchbacks on the highways of the Ozarks, and the end of the story leaves you excited for the sequel (which, I am now about finished with). Reality and magic also blend well with the Author's ability to use narrative to get the reader to visualize the colorful and rugged landscape of the Ozarks and the Beaver Lake region. Which, for anyone that has traveled to this part of Arkansas is a tapestry of color in the spring and fall, and always beautifully rugged anytime of the year. This only adds to the rich texture of his story and its seamless tie to natural forces and elements as the magic of the immortal and powerful fae. The author also has an uncanny ability to skillfully intertwine the mystery of Eureka Springs and its eclectic, hip and artsy culture, with its healing springs and historic Victorian architecture into his story lending life and interest to all the supporting characters, both human and fae. You will love or hate them all by the end of the book. So vivid is his descriptions of Maggie's world of the Fae and the Ozarks that I hope he someday publishes a guide to the magical realm his mind's eye has created for folks not from the region.. In short this is a must read, for fans of fantasy and adventure. The first I hope of many books by this author..
June 13, 2013
Unique and enjoyable - loved it.
I met the author via social media and managed to pick his book up through a free promotion. I'd heard great things, but hadn't read any reviews so only had the blurb to go by. I knew this book formed part of a series. I hadn't realised that the story really spans the series. The Steward ends with an exciting finale and one of the best cliff-hangers I have ever read. It is not a standalone novel. I reached the last page and wanted to howl my frustration. There is still too much to find out. Having said that, it is a great place to stop - there is a sense of resolution, a sense of where it needs to go, and such a huge, terrible new problem, I can't wait to read the next book.
So my first point is The Steward is the first book in a SERIES. If you buy it you will need to buy the rest. This is not a bad thing for this world will hook you in. There is a tragic start. The story skips forward a generation and slows down to introduce the main character. Maggie slowly discovers the Fae world in the Weald, and her role as Steward. She learns her gifts over a period of several months during which she and the reader are introduced to Fae characters and Fae politics. I emphasise the slowness, because despite the initially measured pace, it is such a beautiful read. Time is spent getting to know Maggie giving me time to experience her growth as she faces four different tests, turns sixteen, learns to drive, and falls in love with the forbidden.
There is an underlying love story with a difference, a love hidden and unacknowledged, as intense as it is innocent. I was so hooked as the story picks up and races to the end. Maggie makes some amazing decisions highlighting her worthiness for the responsibility bestowed on her young shoulders, and yet she retains the immaturity and vulnerability of youth. She is a great character, facing inordinate heartache and possessing extraordinary strength of purpose.
This is a great fantasy. Buy it, be prepared to buy the sequels, and invest time to enjoy this marvellous and original tale.
I met the author via social media and managed to pick his book up through a free promotion. I'd heard great things, but hadn't read any reviews so only had the blurb to go by. I knew this book formed part of a series. I hadn't realised that the story really spans the series. The Steward ends with an exciting finale and one of the best cliff-hangers I have ever read. It is not a standalone novel. I reached the last page and wanted to howl my frustration. There is still too much to find out. Having said that, it is a great place to stop - there is a sense of resolution, a sense of where it needs to go, and such a huge, terrible new problem, I can't wait to read the next book.
So my first point is The Steward is the first book in a SERIES. If you buy it you will need to buy the rest. This is not a bad thing for this world will hook you in. There is a tragic start. The story skips forward a generation and slows down to introduce the main character. Maggie slowly discovers the Fae world in the Weald, and her role as Steward. She learns her gifts over a period of several months during which she and the reader are introduced to Fae characters and Fae politics. I emphasise the slowness, because despite the initially measured pace, it is such a beautiful read. Time is spent getting to know Maggie giving me time to experience her growth as she faces four different tests, turns sixteen, learns to drive, and falls in love with the forbidden.
There is an underlying love story with a difference, a love hidden and unacknowledged, as intense as it is innocent. I was so hooked as the story picks up and races to the end. Maggie makes some amazing decisions highlighting her worthiness for the responsibility bestowed on her young shoulders, and yet she retains the immaturity and vulnerability of youth. She is a great character, facing inordinate heartache and possessing extraordinary strength of purpose.
This is a great fantasy. Buy it, be prepared to buy the sequels, and invest time to enjoy this marvellous and original tale.
December 23, 2013
The Steward (Weald Fae Journals, #1) by Christopher Shields is a wonderful teenage romp in fairyland gone bad. This is not a Disney version but more dark with a war between good and bad Fae.
15 year old Maggie is uprooted from her home and friends and starts a new life in rural Arkansas. Could life be any worse. But what follows is a delightful journey as Maggie discovers the nearby forest leads to a magical Fae Land and she is made The Steward. She learns her new duties through trial and error as any teen would, but she is a mere mortal, flesh and blood with feelings that all teenagers are inflicted with.
Maggie's wonderful character carries this beautiful fantasy with consummate ease, written with obvious love for the genre and her character. Christopher expertly weaves a bold and vivid landscape that enthrals and delights the reader with such poetic prose. This reader had no trouble picturing in detail every scene with such minute microscopic focus.
This YA fantasy is full of wonderment, breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventure that will keep readers of all ages glued to the book, unwilling to sleep until finished. That should make parents very happy keeping their teenagers from under foot.
So what are you waiting for go buy this FIVE STAR YA Fantasy that I highly recommend.
15 year old Maggie is uprooted from her home and friends and starts a new life in rural Arkansas. Could life be any worse. But what follows is a delightful journey as Maggie discovers the nearby forest leads to a magical Fae Land and she is made The Steward. She learns her new duties through trial and error as any teen would, but she is a mere mortal, flesh and blood with feelings that all teenagers are inflicted with.
Maggie's wonderful character carries this beautiful fantasy with consummate ease, written with obvious love for the genre and her character. Christopher expertly weaves a bold and vivid landscape that enthrals and delights the reader with such poetic prose. This reader had no trouble picturing in detail every scene with such minute microscopic focus.
This YA fantasy is full of wonderment, breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventure that will keep readers of all ages glued to the book, unwilling to sleep until finished. That should make parents very happy keeping their teenagers from under foot.
So what are you waiting for go buy this FIVE STAR YA Fantasy that I highly recommend.
August 12, 2013
Wow, this book was AWESOME! If you are anything like me, and love Fae-tales (they really don't like to be called fairies), magic, myth, and mystery you have found the right book (or series as it looks). I was interested by the brief book description, but once I started reading, I found I was no longer on my front deck, but had stepped through to the incredibly real, and full world of Maggie O'Shea. I have said before that a character was real or fleshed well, but I have never read through the eyes of a character that felt so solid and true. This YA book reads as adult, not due to subject matter, but because the story is deeper and richer than most YA stories tend to be. The love story, or hint of a triangle is not the focus of the book, or at least it was not for me. Maggie's family and their history in the Weald is enthralling. As she discovers her place among them, you feel the connection along with her. The description is flawless, and the setting is enchanting ~ The Ozarks make for a magical back drop. The ending leaves you no choice but to dive into book 2, which is exactly what a series first should do. I want to thank Mr. Shields for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 1, 2013
The story is fast-paced and the characters well defined. Maggie is a strong protagonist. It is an excellent book for young adults and also for other readers.
Uprooted from Boca Raton, Maggie O’Shea is brought to the Ozark Mountains with her mother, father, and younger brother, because of her father’s lack of work. What she finds in her back yard is a magical world of the Faes (fairies) who rule the Weald. To her surprise, her Aunt May informs her she is selected to become the next Steward as a human liaison to the immortal Fae who live in the Weald.
Some of the Faes are good and others are dangerous. When they battle each other in a power struggle, Maggie shows her bravery and skill at leadership.
Christopher Shields guides us from the real world into the magical world of the Fae. Are they hiding in our backyard? As I look quickly over my shoulder, what is that shadow that slips behind the tree? Or shakes its leaves? I recommend this book.
.
Uprooted from Boca Raton, Maggie O’Shea is brought to the Ozark Mountains with her mother, father, and younger brother, because of her father’s lack of work. What she finds in her back yard is a magical world of the Faes (fairies) who rule the Weald. To her surprise, her Aunt May informs her she is selected to become the next Steward as a human liaison to the immortal Fae who live in the Weald.
Some of the Faes are good and others are dangerous. When they battle each other in a power struggle, Maggie shows her bravery and skill at leadership.
Christopher Shields guides us from the real world into the magical world of the Fae. Are they hiding in our backyard? As I look quickly over my shoulder, what is that shadow that slips behind the tree? Or shakes its leaves? I recommend this book.
.
January 20, 2013
really it's a 3.5, The world building and details of the Fae in this book is genius but i really don't feel to attached to Megan, she annoys me. Somethings that she does just don't make since. How can you be so smart about some things and make such stupid choices with others (Gavin)? Also, i don't buy it that her Dad doesn't know something is going on and hasn't even asked her about it. I will read the next book 'The Changeling' because the book really picked up at the end and i am hopeful that these things will be put to rest.
July 26, 2013
I just finished reading, and would have been done sooner if my family vacation had been less active. Thecharacters are all very well written, the plot is exquisite, and the lead female character is strong. I loved reading how she overcame her obstacles.
Chalen I wanted to see destroyed. He was the epitome of Unseelie to me. I very much enjoyed the way that the clans were portrayed, with even the Seelie having darker aspects.
I am very glad to be able to read the next in the series, because I've got to see what he does with changelings.
Chalen I wanted to see destroyed. He was the epitome of Unseelie to me. I very much enjoyed the way that the clans were portrayed, with even the Seelie having darker aspects.
I am very glad to be able to read the next in the series, because I've got to see what he does with changelings.
March 1, 2013
I enjoyed this story and have already added THE CHANGELING (Weald Fae Journals, Book 2) to my wish list. I did find that it was a little slow moving. It contains lots of dialog which provided back story and world building but distracted me from seeing and investing in the emotional connections between the characters. I truly believe this series will have huge potential and am giving it 3.5 stars.
February 27, 2013
Took me a few chapters before being taken by the story. After that, a hard time to put down the book. I really like the Celtic, fae lore, and the world created by Christopher Shields is really appealing! i'm attacking right away book 2 : The Changeling.
March 1, 2013
3.5 stars, and truly, this is probably more a me thing than a book lacking thing. That said, I just could not get excited about this one. I didn't care what happened. I didn't care about the characters. I just wanted to move on to something I did care about.
October 7, 2012
This is a great story about a young girl fighting her fears and becoming the Steward of the Seely (Light Fae)
August 6, 2016
Welp, after nearly 3 years, I had to reread this book. It just stuck in my mind of how much I enjoyed it. I must say, I enjoyed it even more! Yes it has been upgraded to 5 stars instead of 4.
I can still see why I gave it four, and that's because I'm not a fan of constant flashbacks, and it did a lot of that in the beginning when Maggie went cave exploring. Maybe it's because I took a few creative writing classes and started to do some writing of my own that I actually began to follow it better. I admit that I'm not the best at keeping track of what's happening, but maybe I mentally grew up a little.
This book has everything a fantastic novel needs. I'm surprised that this book doesn't have as much attention it deserves. Great main protagonist. She's so perfectly HUMAN. She has weaknesses. She makes stupid mistakes, but she has such a strong willed independence and a good head on her shoulders that I can't help but wish that I could be brave and strong like her. Standing up to monsterous fae is no easy matter, but standing up to those you love and care about, that takes so much more courage.
Maggie and Gavin have a beautiful chemistry. Yes it starts out like most YA typical book romances do. "Oh my god that is the hottest guy I have ever met! I'm in love!" Yeah, well this one actually makes sense. Fae would be narcissistic and be gorgeous on purpose. They would have humans wrapped around their fingers if they so desired. Who wouldn't want to flaunt their power like that? So I don't blame Maggie for being all gaga at times. Though I would have enjoyed her squirming from the embarrassment of her attraction to Gavin a bit more. I even imagined her getting frustrated enough to throw mud in Gavin's face just to snap herself out of it. Teehee!!!
The villain is a WONDERFUL villain. I personally think it was genius to introduce him in the prologue like that. He is creepy, sadistic to the point of orgasming, murderous, manipulative, arrogant to a fault, and VERY clever. If he lived just up the hill from me, you can bet that I wouldn't get a wink of sleep. He is terrifying. I love it.
I love all the minor characters and the supporting characters. They all fit well into the story and all serve their purpose without feeling out of place.
I will most assuredly read this book again in the near future. I could say more, but I think I overwhelmed this post already. Hahaha!
I can still see why I gave it four, and that's because I'm not a fan of constant flashbacks, and it did a lot of that in the beginning when Maggie went cave exploring. Maybe it's because I took a few creative writing classes and started to do some writing of my own that I actually began to follow it better. I admit that I'm not the best at keeping track of what's happening, but maybe I mentally grew up a little.
This book has everything a fantastic novel needs. I'm surprised that this book doesn't have as much attention it deserves. Great main protagonist. She's so perfectly HUMAN. She has weaknesses. She makes stupid mistakes, but she has such a strong willed independence and a good head on her shoulders that I can't help but wish that I could be brave and strong like her. Standing up to monsterous fae is no easy matter, but standing up to those you love and care about, that takes so much more courage.
Maggie and Gavin have a beautiful chemistry. Yes it starts out like most YA typical book romances do. "Oh my god that is the hottest guy I have ever met! I'm in love!" Yeah, well this one actually makes sense. Fae would be narcissistic and be gorgeous on purpose. They would have humans wrapped around their fingers if they so desired. Who wouldn't want to flaunt their power like that? So I don't blame Maggie for being all gaga at times. Though I would have enjoyed her squirming from the embarrassment of her attraction to Gavin a bit more. I even imagined her getting frustrated enough to throw mud in Gavin's face just to snap herself out of it. Teehee!!!
The villain is a WONDERFUL villain. I personally think it was genius to introduce him in the prologue like that. He is creepy, sadistic to the point of orgasming, murderous, manipulative, arrogant to a fault, and VERY clever. If he lived just up the hill from me, you can bet that I wouldn't get a wink of sleep. He is terrifying. I love it.
I love all the minor characters and the supporting characters. They all fit well into the story and all serve their purpose without feeling out of place.
I will most assuredly read this book again in the near future. I could say more, but I think I overwhelmed this post already. Hahaha!
August 1, 2013
This was a fantastic book - by the end I could barely put it down!
It tells the story of Maggie O'Shea, a 15-year-old girl who just moved from sunny Florida to cold Eureka Springs, and tiny middle-of-nowhere town, to help her ageing Aunt take care of their sprawling estate. But her aunt soon has a big secret to tell her - the forest that the family owns, known as the Weald, is a sacred place to the Fae, a magical fairy-like race who are deeply in-tune with nature, and Maggie's family has been their human correspondant for over a century. Now, as Aunt May is getting old, Maggie must take up the mantle by completing four elemental trials, to determine which of the four elements she is aligned to, and a year later make the decision to become the official Steward to the Fae.
At first all Maggie want's to do is get the hell of the Weald and go back to her life in Florida, but soon she begins to make new friends, and the more she learns about the Fae, and the powers they bring out in her, the more she wants to stay. But there is a dangerous Fae on the prowl, and everyone Maggie cares for is in danger.
Maggie is a fanatic character - fierce and powerful, she likes to hide her emotions even though she easily becomes emotional, and spends a lot of the time having to calm herself down so no one can see how angry/upset she is. But she has a good heart and good morals, and all she wants to do is the right thing, and protect those she loves.
The Fae are wonderful creatures and really well written, though sometimes their explanations were a little hard to keep track of, as were their rules. But they were all well written, diverse characters, and the more you read, the more you worry about just what these powerful creatures can do...
Whilst the beginning of the story was good, it was hampered a bit by moving between past and present, with too many long flashbacks. And in the middle I found myself losing interest a bit, as long periods of time were skipped. Then I got to the water trial and wow! I could barely put it down after that. So if you're finding it a bit hard going in the middle, hang in until then, as that's where it heats up.
So all up a great read, 4.5 stars, looking forward to reading the next one.
It tells the story of Maggie O'Shea, a 15-year-old girl who just moved from sunny Florida to cold Eureka Springs, and tiny middle-of-nowhere town, to help her ageing Aunt take care of their sprawling estate. But her aunt soon has a big secret to tell her - the forest that the family owns, known as the Weald, is a sacred place to the Fae, a magical fairy-like race who are deeply in-tune with nature, and Maggie's family has been their human correspondant for over a century. Now, as Aunt May is getting old, Maggie must take up the mantle by completing four elemental trials, to determine which of the four elements she is aligned to, and a year later make the decision to become the official Steward to the Fae.
At first all Maggie want's to do is get the hell of the Weald and go back to her life in Florida, but soon she begins to make new friends, and the more she learns about the Fae, and the powers they bring out in her, the more she wants to stay. But there is a dangerous Fae on the prowl, and everyone Maggie cares for is in danger.
Maggie is a fanatic character - fierce and powerful, she likes to hide her emotions even though she easily becomes emotional, and spends a lot of the time having to calm herself down so no one can see how angry/upset she is. But she has a good heart and good morals, and all she wants to do is the right thing, and protect those she loves.
The Fae are wonderful creatures and really well written, though sometimes their explanations were a little hard to keep track of, as were their rules. But they were all well written, diverse characters, and the more you read, the more you worry about just what these powerful creatures can do...
Whilst the beginning of the story was good, it was hampered a bit by moving between past and present, with too many long flashbacks. And in the middle I found myself losing interest a bit, as long periods of time were skipped. Then I got to the water trial and wow! I could barely put it down after that. So if you're finding it a bit hard going in the middle, hang in until then, as that's where it heats up.
So all up a great read, 4.5 stars, looking forward to reading the next one.
April 4, 2013
One page into the book, I wondered what I had gotten myself into. As I delved deeper, the story hooked me - a trout on the line. Maggie is such an interesting character. She has flaws like the rest of us, and, also like us, wonders about the meaning to every event. "Why me?" "Where do I go from here?" The inner turmoil is so endearing - a look inside her character and moral compass. We are sucked into the vortex to learn as Maggie does - not everything is as it seems. The Fae are real. What we took as superstition and gossip of the crazies - werewolves, bigfoot and worse - are a product of the Fae taking physical form and scaring humans. The Fae have since adapted, but we all remember the stories of gypsies, firedrakes, and gnomes. And the Fae clans are at war. Maggie - the next steward - is set in the middle. But can she believe in something that is at odds with the world or will she walk away from a new responsibility. It's her choice and we feel those emotions with each turn of the page. And as I initially wrote this - I was only 16% through the volume.
The entire book was intense. I appreciated the character development of Maggie and her young look at the world. It was interesting to see the flip of the genre - where every male was typeset with Herculean traits - and a welcome one. As we read each page, the story gets more complex and the knowledge transfer of Fae to Maggie makes the picture ever deeper. It was a refreshing read for many reasons and capturing the age of Maggie while still leading us through the fantasy was immensely satisfying.
The entire book was intense. I appreciated the character development of Maggie and her young look at the world. It was interesting to see the flip of the genre - where every male was typeset with Herculean traits - and a welcome one. As we read each page, the story gets more complex and the knowledge transfer of Fae to Maggie makes the picture ever deeper. It was a refreshing read for many reasons and capturing the age of Maggie while still leading us through the fantasy was immensely satisfying.
January 29, 2013
The Steward *SPOILER ALERT* I caught a chill within the first 2 pages of The Steward when David and Kyle were being watched by the Unseelie Fae, Chalen.
When Maggie first went to the caves for her first test, the anxiety, trepidation and plain old scared spitless was written so perfectly, I felt all that she went through. When she got stuck in the hole, I had a hard time breathing. I enjoyed the bouts of humor that is spread throughout the story, especially Maggie’s little arguments with her younger brother and her transformation in seeing her new home in a different light after meeting the fae.
“I felt as if I had just awakened from a nap. I completely understood what they tried to tell me.” That brief sentence right there, made me sit up straight. This was Maggie’s (what I call) “Helen Keller Moment”, where she is made fully aware of what it all means.
The battle scene with Gavin, Chalen and Ozara was riveting. My eyes were wide open with excitement…that scene was so skillfully written. Yea…I cried when Mitchell got the best present, which helped repair his relationship with his father…don’t judge me. It’s Chris’s fault. He wrote it. And now, he’s left me hanging. I got to get the Changeling next.
If a book invokes my emotion within the first couple of pages, I’m hooked. The Steward caught me hook, line and sinker.
When Maggie first went to the caves for her first test, the anxiety, trepidation and plain old scared spitless was written so perfectly, I felt all that she went through. When she got stuck in the hole, I had a hard time breathing. I enjoyed the bouts of humor that is spread throughout the story, especially Maggie’s little arguments with her younger brother and her transformation in seeing her new home in a different light after meeting the fae.
“I felt as if I had just awakened from a nap. I completely understood what they tried to tell me.” That brief sentence right there, made me sit up straight. This was Maggie’s (what I call) “Helen Keller Moment”, where she is made fully aware of what it all means.
The battle scene with Gavin, Chalen and Ozara was riveting. My eyes were wide open with excitement…that scene was so skillfully written. Yea…I cried when Mitchell got the best present, which helped repair his relationship with his father…don’t judge me. It’s Chris’s fault. He wrote it. And now, he’s left me hanging. I got to get the Changeling next.
If a book invokes my emotion within the first couple of pages, I’m hooked. The Steward caught me hook, line and sinker.
January 31, 2013
AMAZING!!!!! Captivating, original, and consuming, all ingredients for a 5 star book!
The characters are so well developed and relatable. Maggie is spot on! Realistic as a high school girl deflated over her move, adjusting the her new surroundings and reluctantly awakening to the opportunities for new love, friendship and growth… the development of the complicated relationships between family, between worlds, and between Maggie herself was done to perfection. The antagonist is awesomely done… fearsome, gruesome, and a living nightmare. My spine tingled just at the mere mention of his name. Christopher Shields is a master at connecting you to his characters and to his world.
A world is deliciously created, structured in the real world, while fully explaining and incorporating the fantasy. The description of the Fae’s, their talents, skills, and troubles was wonderfully done. Through the honing of her skills, to the standard conversations, the deeper philosophical message is delivered in an intuitive way… and her development and growth through her trials is believable.
A wonderful story, a wonder filled story. An absolute beginning to a new epic fantasy! Love the ending… enough resolution for this, but a shocker to get you ready for the next! Recommended to all.
The characters are so well developed and relatable. Maggie is spot on! Realistic as a high school girl deflated over her move, adjusting the her new surroundings and reluctantly awakening to the opportunities for new love, friendship and growth… the development of the complicated relationships between family, between worlds, and between Maggie herself was done to perfection. The antagonist is awesomely done… fearsome, gruesome, and a living nightmare. My spine tingled just at the mere mention of his name. Christopher Shields is a master at connecting you to his characters and to his world.
A world is deliciously created, structured in the real world, while fully explaining and incorporating the fantasy. The description of the Fae’s, their talents, skills, and troubles was wonderfully done. Through the honing of her skills, to the standard conversations, the deeper philosophical message is delivered in an intuitive way… and her development and growth through her trials is believable.
A wonderful story, a wonder filled story. An absolute beginning to a new epic fantasy! Love the ending… enough resolution for this, but a shocker to get you ready for the next! Recommended to all.
January 23, 2015
I enjoyed this YA fantasy novel about a high school girl (Maggie O'Shea) being forced to move from Florida to Eureka Springs, AR and finding that it holds more promise than she realized. In Shield's novel, faeries are real, and can be lifesize hunks of well-dressed teenage males or little creatures flitting around with wings. Underneath appearances, they are other life forms that can be pure energy or can take other forms, both human and animal. It turns out that the O'Shea farm guards a portal between the two worlds, which one of the O'Sheas must always guard. With Maggie's aunt dying, it may be her turn....if she can pass the tests of earth, air, fire, water, and spirit. And if she can thwart the evil plans of the Unseelie faes who want to destroy the O'Shea family and their guardianship. I enjoyed the characters a lot, but felt that it took way too long for Maggie to realize what's going on in each instance. For example, her aunt dies mysteriously and her best friend is found in a coma after telling Maggie she has found out about the fae, yet Maggie doesn't immediately think of the Unseelie character that lives atop them on the hill??? Apart from these plot considerations, I enjoyed the local references to Northwest Arkansas and I enjoyed Maggie, her family, and her friends.
August 31, 2013
Fun, different, and magical, this YA novel captured me and took me into the lush and beautiful world of Maggie O'Shea. Set in the Ozarks, where Maggie is forced to move with her family, she soon falls in love with the land her family has owned for many years. And with some of the Fae who inhabit the surrounding area.
But the Fae are not what we expect and Shields has given a twist to the tales we know. He also gives a dark and edgy feel to the Fae, making them both enticing and horrific at times, but always fascinating.
Shields is an elegant writer, bringing to life the gorgeous world of the Ozarks. His characters are believable and have layers and depths we are just beginning to see in this first book. But he gives us peeks at their future possibilities and I found them to be likable as well interesting. The story is intriguing and with unexpected twists and turns.
As a fan of fantasy and magic, I thoroughly enjoyed this first of the series and I'm looking forward to the hours I get to spend when I return to the wonderful world Shields has created.
I highly recommend!
But the Fae are not what we expect and Shields has given a twist to the tales we know. He also gives a dark and edgy feel to the Fae, making them both enticing and horrific at times, but always fascinating.
Shields is an elegant writer, bringing to life the gorgeous world of the Ozarks. His characters are believable and have layers and depths we are just beginning to see in this first book. But he gives us peeks at their future possibilities and I found them to be likable as well interesting. The story is intriguing and with unexpected twists and turns.
As a fan of fantasy and magic, I thoroughly enjoyed this first of the series and I'm looking forward to the hours I get to spend when I return to the wonderful world Shields has created.
I highly recommend!
May 30, 2013
The Steward is the story of 16-year old Maggie O'Shea who finds out that she is the next Steward of the Weald,which has been in her family for more than a century.We follow her journey as she faces challenges and takes tests to determine her affinity to the elements along with deciding whether she wants to accept this job to protect the humans from the unseelie Fae.The story is very well written with lots of descriptions.My favourite part about this book was that the magic and everything was explained using simple science which made us understand the book better.There was a lot of suspense and surprises which encouraged me to read faster to find out what would happen next.There was never a dull moment and I absolutely loved it!!I look forward to read the next parts which I believe will be just as great.The author has great talent and his books are definitely worth reading:PThe StewardChristopher Shields
February 17, 2016
Well that was an unexpected delight!
Apparently I'm very much into books about the Fae lately! I actually went through my To-Read Goodreads list and realized that I had marked The Weald Fae Journals, by Christopher Fields awhile ago, so now was the prefect time to get started with this series.
There was so much more that I learned about the Fae world of Seelies and Unseelies after reading The Steward, and I enjoyed this take on the magical creatures living among humans in our own world.
Maggie O'Shea is living the perfect teenage life in Boca Raton Florida when her family has to move to Arkansas to be with her Aunt when she gets sick. Feeling the typical teenage feels of leaving school, swim team, and friends all behind, Maggie arrives in Arkansas angry and dreading her new life in a new town. Upon arrival she starts seeing strange things on the family property, and as she explores more of the land, she realizes there may be more to the reason of having to move here to help her Aunt than she bargained for.
Apparently I'm very much into books about the Fae lately! I actually went through my To-Read Goodreads list and realized that I had marked The Weald Fae Journals, by Christopher Fields awhile ago, so now was the prefect time to get started with this series.
There was so much more that I learned about the Fae world of Seelies and Unseelies after reading The Steward, and I enjoyed this take on the magical creatures living among humans in our own world.
Maggie O'Shea is living the perfect teenage life in Boca Raton Florida when her family has to move to Arkansas to be with her Aunt when she gets sick. Feeling the typical teenage feels of leaving school, swim team, and friends all behind, Maggie arrives in Arkansas angry and dreading her new life in a new town. Upon arrival she starts seeing strange things on the family property, and as she explores more of the land, she realizes there may be more to the reason of having to move here to help her Aunt than she bargained for.
August 31, 2013
Christopher Shields has a way of bringing his characters to life and making you want to know more about them, yes, even the wicked ones! He has created a wonderful world filled with Fantasy, intrigue and magic.
The Steward (Weald Fae Journals) is fast paced with a very strong protagonist. It's setting amidst the beauty of the Ozarks in Arkansas is described beautifully - who would expect to meet the Fae there?
Maggie, 16 years old, has been uprooted from her home in Florida and learns there is more to her background than a home in the Ozarks. She is to be the new Steward, one who protects the land of the Fae and is a liason between their world and ours. Listed as a YA story, this will delight lovers of Fantasy of any age.
I highly recommend this book, I couldn't put it down.
And to my delight, I discovered that there is a sequel!
Well done, Christopher Shields, well done!
The Steward (Weald Fae Journals) is fast paced with a very strong protagonist. It's setting amidst the beauty of the Ozarks in Arkansas is described beautifully - who would expect to meet the Fae there?
Maggie, 16 years old, has been uprooted from her home in Florida and learns there is more to her background than a home in the Ozarks. She is to be the new Steward, one who protects the land of the Fae and is a liason between their world and ours. Listed as a YA story, this will delight lovers of Fantasy of any age.
I highly recommend this book, I couldn't put it down.
And to my delight, I discovered that there is a sequel!
Well done, Christopher Shields, well done!
February 17, 2013
Maggie O'Shea discovers in The Steward that the world is not at all what she thinks it is. Her family returns to the Ozark in Arkansas to live with their aunt after running into financial difficulties in Florida. As Maggie reluctantly settles into her new setting she discovers there is whole another realm interacting with her physical world, call the Fae. She also finds out she is slanted to be the next Steward, or protector of the intersection of those two worlds. Of course, this only happens after she passes a series of tests. . .
Shields' book is a fun read. There were some predictable moments similar to other stories in this genre, but it overall was enjoyable with very likable characters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes "unsuspecting character put into the role of saving her world" or those with "forbidden love" subplots.
Shields' book is a fun read. There were some predictable moments similar to other stories in this genre, but it overall was enjoyable with very likable characters. I recommend this book to anyone who likes "unsuspecting character put into the role of saving her world" or those with "forbidden love" subplots.
December 2, 2012
I only got this book because it was free. After I read all the books that usually interest me, I had nothing left but this one. Once I started reading, it became very clear to me that this is not your typical Fairy Book and it's nothing I expected. I realized I couldn't put it down. The story gripped my imagination and held it. I had to force myself to put it down so I wouldn't finish it so fast and tried to make it last. The story haunted me into my dreams. I am amazed at the authors imagination and being able to put it so well into words. The writing is fluent and uncomplicated, it had everything, from suspense, horror, drama, romance and humor, it's haunting and mesmerizing. A definite must read!!! I guarantee you won't ever forget this story.
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