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Cael Stone #1
The Last Falcon
Is it possible for a single falcon to save a kingdom?
Erynn Taylor was fourteen the day she witnessed the random and brutal murder of her father. She should have died that day too, alone on a forest road in a kingdom that was not her own, but a reclusive golden dragon swooped down upon the scene—scattering her attackers and sparing her life, but ultimately denying her justice.
Two years later, her father’s killer reappears—riding boldly into her kingdom for a visit with her king. But her elation at the nearness of justice turns to anger and then fear as she learns there is more to his visit than meets the eye—a conspiracy that threatens the entire kingdom and just might bring her the death she so narrowly avoided.
Fleeing the castle where she has lived ever since her father’s murder, and soon becoming the subject of a kingdom-wide manhunt, Erynn sets out to find the man who holds the key to her past only to discover that her escape will not be so easy. That reclusive golden dragon is back—and following her. There is a fast-flowing river she needs to cross. And then there are those unresolved problems she left behind.
She wants justice. She also wants to save her kingdom and her king. But does she want either badly enough to die?
THE LAST FALCON is the first installment of the epic fantasy adventure series THE CAEL STONE. It was awarded a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and has been listed on the Kirkus Reviews website as a “similar book” to GAME OF THRONES. If you like fast-paced, quest-adventure stories that are also brimming with mystery and political intrigue and set in a world filled with dragons, elves, and dwarves, then you will love this series from Colleen Ruttan.
Erynn Taylor was fourteen the day she witnessed the random and brutal murder of her father. She should have died that day too, alone on a forest road in a kingdom that was not her own, but a reclusive golden dragon swooped down upon the scene—scattering her attackers and sparing her life, but ultimately denying her justice.
Two years later, her father’s killer reappears—riding boldly into her kingdom for a visit with her king. But her elation at the nearness of justice turns to anger and then fear as she learns there is more to his visit than meets the eye—a conspiracy that threatens the entire kingdom and just might bring her the death she so narrowly avoided.
Fleeing the castle where she has lived ever since her father’s murder, and soon becoming the subject of a kingdom-wide manhunt, Erynn sets out to find the man who holds the key to her past only to discover that her escape will not be so easy. That reclusive golden dragon is back—and following her. There is a fast-flowing river she needs to cross. And then there are those unresolved problems she left behind.
She wants justice. She also wants to save her kingdom and her king. But does she want either badly enough to die?
THE LAST FALCON is the first installment of the epic fantasy adventure series THE CAEL STONE. It was awarded a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and has been listed on the Kirkus Reviews website as a “similar book” to GAME OF THRONES. If you like fast-paced, quest-adventure stories that are also brimming with mystery and political intrigue and set in a world filled with dragons, elves, and dwarves, then you will love this series from Colleen Ruttan.
290 pages, Paperback
First published June 24, 2012
27 people are currently reading
2755 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 28, 2013
I'm giving this three stars based on what I read. So allow me to clarify my main problem with this book, it's an enjoyable read that I read from start to finish, however, it feels cut off. I am aware that the book is a series, but it feels like we only just got started on our journey and then suddenly it's the end.
Now whilst I do feel like the book is a complete exposition for the rest of the story, it is undeniably a good set-up. It's rare to see fantasy novels with strong female friendship bonds and you get that here, plus there isn't the distraction of a male yet. The main female is a young girl (Erynn) who for once sets out on her journey without a strong male hero by her side, she goes with her best friend (Adena) who although maybe not quite on the same page, is a faithful best friend. Our other two main characters are introduced near the end of the book and were also female, now none of these women are particularly kick-ass or strong, but in their own ways they are a true show of female empowerment. They stand up to soldiers, they remain steadfast in their beliefs, and they stick together.
Now the male characters, whilst to me they felt very secondary, were a bit one-dimensional, Marik is probably the only male character I could show interest for, which is disappointing as our primary concern should learn where our protagonist's Erynn's lay; with Prince Gareth. Quinn was also a intriguing character, up until his story and position became rather predictable, which is a ongoing theme. The writing, whether it's trying to be clever and fore-shadow certain events, instead, just starts telling us things in body language and behaviour that give away the plot twists ahead.
As a book I don't feel it particularly has me hooked for any sequels, it feels like it chose an odd place to end, with nothing to really make me want to read the next one. However, as a young-adult/teen fantasy novel, it offers me a feminine character who isn't torn with love, who isn't kicking ass and killing things to be empowered, but who simply just wants to help the people who helped her. The additions of strong female friendship, and the brief appearance of elves without making it completely focus on their beauty or what their city should be like, etc etc, is just a few more differences I felt this book could offer me.
If I get the chance, I will read the sequel. However, it won't have me hunting the internet in desperation for it.
Now whilst I do feel like the book is a complete exposition for the rest of the story, it is undeniably a good set-up. It's rare to see fantasy novels with strong female friendship bonds and you get that here, plus there isn't the distraction of a male yet. The main female is a young girl (Erynn) who for once sets out on her journey without a strong male hero by her side, she goes with her best friend (Adena) who although maybe not quite on the same page, is a faithful best friend. Our other two main characters are introduced near the end of the book and were also female, now none of these women are particularly kick-ass or strong, but in their own ways they are a true show of female empowerment. They stand up to soldiers, they remain steadfast in their beliefs, and they stick together.
Now the male characters, whilst to me they felt very secondary, were a bit one-dimensional, Marik is probably the only male character I could show interest for, which is disappointing as our primary concern should learn where our protagonist's Erynn's lay; with Prince Gareth. Quinn was also a intriguing character, up until his story and position became rather predictable, which is a ongoing theme. The writing, whether it's trying to be clever and fore-shadow certain events, instead, just starts telling us things in body language and behaviour that give away the plot twists ahead.
As a book I don't feel it particularly has me hooked for any sequels, it feels like it chose an odd place to end, with nothing to really make me want to read the next one. However, as a young-adult/teen fantasy novel, it offers me a feminine character who isn't torn with love, who isn't kicking ass and killing things to be empowered, but who simply just wants to help the people who helped her. The additions of strong female friendship, and the brief appearance of elves without making it completely focus on their beauty or what their city should be like, etc etc, is just a few more differences I felt this book could offer me.
If I get the chance, I will read the sequel. However, it won't have me hunting the internet in desperation for it.
October 26, 2012
My review doesn't do this book justice.
I feel kinda bad about my rating. First off, I won this from a First Reads giveaway. I'm gonna give it 3. Not because it wasn't a good book, but it just wasn't for me. I'm into fantasy, and sci-fi... but this one just wasn't my cup of tea. I would definitely recommend this book to someone who is more into the realms of fantasy, but for someone like me... I think you could take it or leave it.
I hate saying this, but I just couldn't get into it. Which, was by NO means Colleen Ruttan's fault. She wrote a wonderful story, it's suspenseful right from the beginning, and all the way to the end. I think maybe I was a bit standoffish from the beginning, and i'm not sure why. Colleen, you're a talented writer, and this first installment of your series was flowing, courageous, and it was very easy to associate with the characters.
I feel kinda bad about my rating. First off, I won this from a First Reads giveaway. I'm gonna give it 3. Not because it wasn't a good book, but it just wasn't for me. I'm into fantasy, and sci-fi... but this one just wasn't my cup of tea. I would definitely recommend this book to someone who is more into the realms of fantasy, but for someone like me... I think you could take it or leave it.
I hate saying this, but I just couldn't get into it. Which, was by NO means Colleen Ruttan's fault. She wrote a wonderful story, it's suspenseful right from the beginning, and all the way to the end. I think maybe I was a bit standoffish from the beginning, and i'm not sure why. Colleen, you're a talented writer, and this first installment of your series was flowing, courageous, and it was very easy to associate with the characters.
October 23, 2012
I won this as part of a First reads competition and to say I enjoyed this book would be an understatement.
The writing flowed seamlessly and all the characters were easy to identify with or understand. One of the things I really appreciated was that though the datails of the story were described enough for you to know exactly waht was going on they were not over embelished which allowed for me to use my own imagination to connect with the book throughout.
A fantastic start to what will hopefully be an enjoyable series. Looking forwards to reading the next book when its available.
The writing flowed seamlessly and all the characters were easy to identify with or understand. One of the things I really appreciated was that though the datails of the story were described enough for you to know exactly waht was going on they were not over embelished which allowed for me to use my own imagination to connect with the book throughout.
A fantastic start to what will hopefully be an enjoyable series. Looking forwards to reading the next book when its available.
October 9, 2012
I won this book from a first-read giveaway & I am sure glad I did! It is the first part of a touching story of a very brave young girl who's adopted father gets murdered. A couple years later she finds things out about herself that change her life forever. This is a great, well written book and I could not put it down! I will be waiting for the next book to find out what happens. I highly suggest this book to everyone, even if you aren't into fantasy books go ahead & read the first few chapters. I think this book could change your mind!
January 21, 2014
A fast-paced fantasy novel of intrigue and adventure, The Last Falcon brings one to mind of Tad Williams’ The Dragonbone Chair (one of my favorite books of all time), Terry Brooks, Melanie Rawn, and their ilk. (Perhaps more famously, George R.R. Martin, Robert Jordan, and Terry Goodkind, although I’d argue my first set more.)
SYNOPSIS | Erynn Taylor is a young girl of fourteen when her father is murdered in front of her by a man with a limp and scars. A golden-colored dragon of unknown intentions, Krystalix, attacks the men with the murderer and Erynn escapes. So does the murderer.
Two years later, she has somehow, to her puzzlement, become the as-needed scribe to King Wryden of Allyria, who has moved her into his castle where she also works as a scullery maid. Her best friend and now stablehand, Adena, came with her as well. The intrigue truly begins when men arrive from the rival kingdom of Galia, Krystalix in their wake, unbeknownst to King Wryden. The leader? None other than the scarred, limping murderer of her father. Meanwhile, it seems that over time, King Wryden’s second-born son, Holden, has taken over more and more of the daily duties, while his older brother is off trying to turn the tide in other kingdoms against Queen Naedra of Galia without directly risking his kingdom of Allyria. King Wryden wants to let his oldest son know, but Holden has taken control over all the falcons and falconers.
Why are these soldiers in Allyria? Why is Krystalix following them and attacking them? Who is really in control of Allyria? Can Erynn find a falcon? And, why is Erynn in the middle of it all?
REVIEW | Ruttan throws you right into the story of The Last Falcon and she doesn’t let up. The gauntlet is thrown and the assumption is made that you will be able to pick it up. It’s seamless, continuous, unrelenting action. As I neared halfway into the fantasy novel, I realized that nothing really different had yet to happen, and – more importantly – I didn’t mind that at all. You see, it wasn’t a lack of action that gave me that restless feeling, but rather that it never lagged. Ruttan has written the story almost as a moment-by-moment timeline of Taylor’s life and poor Taylor has been whomped.
Ruttan’s writing style is coherent, original, and forceful. The novel is a little short on description, but I didn’t really miss it. It was nice to take a break from overly-flowery and descriptive prose that paints the scene for you, but leaves you wondering when something is actually going to happen. She incorporates traditional fantasy elements such as a medieval-esque time period and creatures such as dragons, dwarves, and elves. In the first novel, the latter is barely present and somewhat unknown; the hint is there that it will change.
One thing that caught my attention is how Taylor isn’t really a strong leader: she sits back and lets things happen to her. Then she reacts. Near the end of the novel, she’s starting to stand her ground with Adena, but there were plenty of times where I was getting frustrated with Erynn and really wanted her to take a lead. However, she is very stubborn with a strong sense of right and wrong. I’m hoping that as the series develops, she will learn how to better balance action and reaction. Luckily, we will have an opportunity to see Erynn develop since Ruttan intends this series to be seven novels long.
By the way, the conclusion of the novel isn’t one that is going to make “read-one-and-leave-it” people very happy. There is no pretty bow: there is no arc of beginning, middle, and end. Instead, it truly is like an “Erynn Taylor’s Life Timeline” in which Ruttan found a good poignant moment to just cut the action until the next novel is released.
CONCLUSION | This novel is expert entertainment and I expect fabulous things to come out of Colleen Ruttan. I will be following along as she releases the other novels.
Thank you, Colleen Ruttan.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Last Falcon free through the GoodReads First Reads review program from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and did not receive any other compensation. The opinions I have expressed are my own and no one else's. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
SYNOPSIS | Erynn Taylor is a young girl of fourteen when her father is murdered in front of her by a man with a limp and scars. A golden-colored dragon of unknown intentions, Krystalix, attacks the men with the murderer and Erynn escapes. So does the murderer.
Two years later, she has somehow, to her puzzlement, become the as-needed scribe to King Wryden of Allyria, who has moved her into his castle where she also works as a scullery maid. Her best friend and now stablehand, Adena, came with her as well. The intrigue truly begins when men arrive from the rival kingdom of Galia, Krystalix in their wake, unbeknownst to King Wryden. The leader? None other than the scarred, limping murderer of her father. Meanwhile, it seems that over time, King Wryden’s second-born son, Holden, has taken over more and more of the daily duties, while his older brother is off trying to turn the tide in other kingdoms against Queen Naedra of Galia without directly risking his kingdom of Allyria. King Wryden wants to let his oldest son know, but Holden has taken control over all the falcons and falconers.
Why are these soldiers in Allyria? Why is Krystalix following them and attacking them? Who is really in control of Allyria? Can Erynn find a falcon? And, why is Erynn in the middle of it all?
REVIEW | Ruttan throws you right into the story of The Last Falcon and she doesn’t let up. The gauntlet is thrown and the assumption is made that you will be able to pick it up. It’s seamless, continuous, unrelenting action. As I neared halfway into the fantasy novel, I realized that nothing really different had yet to happen, and – more importantly – I didn’t mind that at all. You see, it wasn’t a lack of action that gave me that restless feeling, but rather that it never lagged. Ruttan has written the story almost as a moment-by-moment timeline of Taylor’s life and poor Taylor has been whomped.
Ruttan’s writing style is coherent, original, and forceful. The novel is a little short on description, but I didn’t really miss it. It was nice to take a break from overly-flowery and descriptive prose that paints the scene for you, but leaves you wondering when something is actually going to happen. She incorporates traditional fantasy elements such as a medieval-esque time period and creatures such as dragons, dwarves, and elves. In the first novel, the latter is barely present and somewhat unknown; the hint is there that it will change.
One thing that caught my attention is how Taylor isn’t really a strong leader: she sits back and lets things happen to her. Then she reacts. Near the end of the novel, she’s starting to stand her ground with Adena, but there were plenty of times where I was getting frustrated with Erynn and really wanted her to take a lead. However, she is very stubborn with a strong sense of right and wrong. I’m hoping that as the series develops, she will learn how to better balance action and reaction. Luckily, we will have an opportunity to see Erynn develop since Ruttan intends this series to be seven novels long.
By the way, the conclusion of the novel isn’t one that is going to make “read-one-and-leave-it” people very happy. There is no pretty bow: there is no arc of beginning, middle, and end. Instead, it truly is like an “Erynn Taylor’s Life Timeline” in which Ruttan found a good poignant moment to just cut the action until the next novel is released.
CONCLUSION | This novel is expert entertainment and I expect fabulous things to come out of Colleen Ruttan. I will be following along as she releases the other novels.
Thank you, Colleen Ruttan.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Last Falcon free through the GoodReads First Reads review program from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and did not receive any other compensation. The opinions I have expressed are my own and no one else's. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
January 14, 2013
Full review also posted here on TotalTeenFiction.
I won this book from Goodreads in their first-reads giveaway, and it's been sat on my shelf for a while now. I've been putting it off partly because I was behind on books, and partly because it's fantasy and YA fantasy is a genre I've really struggled to get into. As soon as I started reading this book I regretted not reading it sooner!
The Last Falcon follows Erynn, who after losing her adoptive mother to illness and her adoptive father to murder, ends up working for the king. When the Galians arrive, things become uneasy and it's clear both Erynn and the king may be in danger.
I loved this book, and I'm so relieved to say that! The writing completely drew me in and where a lot of fantasy can be quite dense, this was completely readable but still had that intricate weaving of the world and it's characters. It had dragons, elves and kings and queens which made for a really exciting, imaginative tale and I just loved getting wrapped up in the story! The castle setting reminded me a bit of the Song of Ice and Fire books which I love, but which are definitely not YA, so it was great to have a format I loved in a genre I loved.
I really liked Erynn's character and how she came into her own throughout the story. When we first see her she's just lost her father, and seems vulnerable and lost. Later on in the story she has to be strong and fight for survival, and she really develops through her experiences. I liked her friendship with Adena and the loyalty she showed her.
The title of the book refers to the act of falconry which is seen as a threat throughout the book. Suddenly letters aren't being sent and falconers are being killed. I thought that was a really nice touch and a good backbone to the story. It also helped highlight the suspicion which runs throughout the story. There are plenty of horrible characters who are up to something which helped keep me completely hooked.
My only flaw and the reason I'm giving it 4* was just because I struggled to keep up with some of the connections between characters, but that's a personal thing and I often struggle with books where there are lots of characters and things to remember.
Overall I have a great deal of praise for this book because it's restored my faith in a genre I thought I would never be able to like! A really fantastic book and one I'd definitely recommend. This is the first book in the Cael Stone series so hopefully there's more great things to come!
Find more books like this on TotalTeenFiction.
I won this book from Goodreads in their first-reads giveaway, and it's been sat on my shelf for a while now. I've been putting it off partly because I was behind on books, and partly because it's fantasy and YA fantasy is a genre I've really struggled to get into. As soon as I started reading this book I regretted not reading it sooner!
The Last Falcon follows Erynn, who after losing her adoptive mother to illness and her adoptive father to murder, ends up working for the king. When the Galians arrive, things become uneasy and it's clear both Erynn and the king may be in danger.
I loved this book, and I'm so relieved to say that! The writing completely drew me in and where a lot of fantasy can be quite dense, this was completely readable but still had that intricate weaving of the world and it's characters. It had dragons, elves and kings and queens which made for a really exciting, imaginative tale and I just loved getting wrapped up in the story! The castle setting reminded me a bit of the Song of Ice and Fire books which I love, but which are definitely not YA, so it was great to have a format I loved in a genre I loved.
I really liked Erynn's character and how she came into her own throughout the story. When we first see her she's just lost her father, and seems vulnerable and lost. Later on in the story she has to be strong and fight for survival, and she really develops through her experiences. I liked her friendship with Adena and the loyalty she showed her.
The title of the book refers to the act of falconry which is seen as a threat throughout the book. Suddenly letters aren't being sent and falconers are being killed. I thought that was a really nice touch and a good backbone to the story. It also helped highlight the suspicion which runs throughout the story. There are plenty of horrible characters who are up to something which helped keep me completely hooked.
My only flaw and the reason I'm giving it 4* was just because I struggled to keep up with some of the connections between characters, but that's a personal thing and I often struggle with books where there are lots of characters and things to remember.
Overall I have a great deal of praise for this book because it's restored my faith in a genre I thought I would never be able to like! A really fantastic book and one I'd definitely recommend. This is the first book in the Cael Stone series so hopefully there's more great things to come!
Find more books like this on TotalTeenFiction.
May 7, 2014
(I received this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads giveaways).
(This review may contain spoilers).
This book did a really good job of pulling me into the storyline straight away. It was really easy to relate to Erynn as a characters and I quite liked the world that was created within the book.
I thought dragons were introduced and used particularly well in this book. Out of all the mythological creatures, dragons are probably my favourite. (There is actually a documentary-style film about dragons that I think is a very useful tool for anyone wanting to write about them).
I did like Erynn and Adena, but the villains came across as very... villain-like, without any good qualities to them - especially Holden.
I did feel that the world itself was described in good detail and it was nice that Erynn wasn't an all-powerful character and had to rely on other people to help her.
I did find Erynn's history a bit confusing. Although she was apparently adopted twice, I'm not sure how that all worked out and would have liked a bit more background.
The whole Daughters of Meagan thing is quite an interesting concept and I'd really like to know more details about the relationship between them and the dragons. I'd also like to know more about Soren, too. (I actually do have a theory about him...)
It's difficult to find a fantasy book that's completely unique, but this one was still really well-written and enjoyable to read. I'll definitely be interested in reading the next book in this series in the future. This first book has left me eager to know what's going to happen next.
(This review may contain spoilers).
This book did a really good job of pulling me into the storyline straight away. It was really easy to relate to Erynn as a characters and I quite liked the world that was created within the book.
I thought dragons were introduced and used particularly well in this book. Out of all the mythological creatures, dragons are probably my favourite. (There is actually a documentary-style film about dragons that I think is a very useful tool for anyone wanting to write about them).
I did like Erynn and Adena, but the villains came across as very... villain-like, without any good qualities to them - especially Holden.
I did feel that the world itself was described in good detail and it was nice that Erynn wasn't an all-powerful character and had to rely on other people to help her.
I did find Erynn's history a bit confusing. Although she was apparently adopted twice, I'm not sure how that all worked out and would have liked a bit more background.
The whole Daughters of Meagan thing is quite an interesting concept and I'd really like to know more details about the relationship between them and the dragons. I'd also like to know more about Soren, too. (I actually do have a theory about him...)
It's difficult to find a fantasy book that's completely unique, but this one was still really well-written and enjoyable to read. I'll definitely be interested in reading the next book in this series in the future. This first book has left me eager to know what's going to happen next.
December 22, 2013
I won this book in goodreads giveaways. It's the second I've own and I was pleasantly surprised (partly because I couldn't even finish the first one). The Last Falcon is a fast moving book set in a world much like in the Inheritance Cycle (Eragon), with dragons, humans, dwarves and elves. While not as realistic as Eragon, it's a completely original story and is not as thick as the Inheritance books. The teaser in the description happens within the first couple pages, so beyond that a reader doesn't know what's going to happen. I believe there's an intended number of seven books in this series, but I think that's a mistake. Ruttan would've done this series justice by putting some of those books together, giving her the chance to better develop her characters and connect them to the reader, and get more progress. I felt that by the end of this book the characters had only just begun their journey, and I can't recognize a climax of any kind. It just kind of dropped off at the end, which is why I think it should've been melded with its sequel. But still, it was a good book, after all I did give City of Bones two stars and everyone thinks that's great. Do I recommend this? Yes, to younger readers who aren't expecting a complex series like the Inheritance Cycle (really the best way I can describe it is the watered down version of that series) or Song of Ice and Fire. Reading for a half hour per night, I finished this in ten days, so it'll hardly take up a large amount of any readers' valued reading time. Will I pick up the sequel? Perhaps if I stumble across it on a discount pile somewhere, or win it again. I liked it, but I didn't love it.
June 1, 2013
I won this book through the Goodreads First Reads program, and I am so happy that I was given the chance to read this wonderful book.
Ruttan created a fascinating world. At first it seems your run of the mill sort of medieval world, and while there are mentions of dragons and elves, no one seems to be sure if they still exist anymore. That is, till a golden dragon saved the life of a fourteen year old girl named Erynn.
I really enjoyed Erynn as a heroine, she was strong and brave, but still just a girl, confused about the events happening around her, and as surprised as her best friend as to how many of those events were happening because of her!
We learn about the world through her experiences, so while we get a good feel for how the world works (to the best of her knowledge), there are a lot of mysteries left to explore. Such as why Krystalix seems intent on protecting Erynn, who her parents are, why was her father killed by a man who shows up two years later looking for her, and who can she trust? She makes mistakes, but she isn't stupid. And I love the fact that while a few characters appear to be two-dimensional villains, there are quite a few others whose motives keep you guessing.
Some of these questions will get answered in this book, while others to be continued in the next, but you're not left feeling like the author just stopped in a random place (as a few books I've won in the past have done). There is a kind of closure at the end, but enough left unresolved to make you eager for the next installment!
Ruttan created a fascinating world. At first it seems your run of the mill sort of medieval world, and while there are mentions of dragons and elves, no one seems to be sure if they still exist anymore. That is, till a golden dragon saved the life of a fourteen year old girl named Erynn.
I really enjoyed Erynn as a heroine, she was strong and brave, but still just a girl, confused about the events happening around her, and as surprised as her best friend as to how many of those events were happening because of her!
We learn about the world through her experiences, so while we get a good feel for how the world works (to the best of her knowledge), there are a lot of mysteries left to explore. Such as why Krystalix seems intent on protecting Erynn, who her parents are, why was her father killed by a man who shows up two years later looking for her, and who can she trust? She makes mistakes, but she isn't stupid. And I love the fact that while a few characters appear to be two-dimensional villains, there are quite a few others whose motives keep you guessing.
Some of these questions will get answered in this book, while others to be continued in the next, but you're not left feeling like the author just stopped in a random place (as a few books I've won in the past have done). There is a kind of closure at the end, but enough left unresolved to make you eager for the next installment!
March 7, 2014
This book reminds me of a similar plot in Beowulf with a mixture of the series, The Chronicles of Narnia. Instead of a male, the story follows a young girl, Erynn, on her adventure with swords and mystical creatures to avenge her father’s death. She storyline moves at a consistent pace, it wasn’t too slow from the draggy details and it wasn’t too fast where all the actions and scenes are rushed in. I liked that there are just enough description to allow readers, especially young readers, to imagine in their heads as they read. This book captures most of the qualities a fantasy text would have: mystical creatures, a journey, magic, and a world beyond scientific explanations. As I read the book, I notice how simple, yet a times, how complex Erynn is as a character. She’s afraid, yet she doesn’t allow such fear to overwhelm her. She hesitant but she does it anyway. Not only does her character disconnects herself or confined herself in these two internal and external world, other literary elements such as setting are too.
Author: Colleen Ruttan
Title: The Last Falcon: Book 1 of the Cael Stone
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Year of Publication: 2012
Lit Genre: Children Fantasy
Recent Award: None
ISBN: 978-1477570395
Age: 8 years and up
Author: Colleen Ruttan
Title: The Last Falcon: Book 1 of the Cael Stone
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Year of Publication: 2012
Lit Genre: Children Fantasy
Recent Award: None
ISBN: 978-1477570395
Age: 8 years and up
January 18, 2014
Although the story is very intricate and has a lot of depth, it felt difficult to follow at times. Names were briefly introduced, if introduced at all (more often just referenced), making it very difficult to follow the story at times - especially if one is not fully paying attention.
I think the characters for the most part were decently written and constructed. Some of them I would have liked to hear about more, but I understand that that is not really an option with that specific story plot. However, I wished I saw more of Quinn, Marik and Holden. Most of what the reader learns about them is word of mouth. We are left only with impressions of who they are.
Overall, the plot was well done. The story is definitely well constructed and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I also look forward to the sequels. My biggest qualm with the book is definitely the difficulty that the reader has with keeping up with the numerous characters and the vast history behind the book. At times the story did feel slow - that I wished it would just hurry up and get to the good part instead of letting us in on so many minute, insignificant details. Otherwise, it was good. 3.5/5
I think the characters for the most part were decently written and constructed. Some of them I would have liked to hear about more, but I understand that that is not really an option with that specific story plot. However, I wished I saw more of Quinn, Marik and Holden. Most of what the reader learns about them is word of mouth. We are left only with impressions of who they are.
Overall, the plot was well done. The story is definitely well constructed and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I also look forward to the sequels. My biggest qualm with the book is definitely the difficulty that the reader has with keeping up with the numerous characters and the vast history behind the book. At times the story did feel slow - that I wished it would just hurry up and get to the good part instead of letting us in on so many minute, insignificant details. Otherwise, it was good. 3.5/5
March 6, 2013
The Last Falcon is a great fantasy with a plucky orphan heroine on a quest to save her king and along the way find the answers she would risk her life to know.
Who are the enemies conspiring to control the kingdom of Alyria and maybe all of Valentia?
What is the legacy past to her by the mother she never knew?
What ties her to the golden dragon, Krystalix, who keeps swooping in when she is in danger?
Since this is the first volume in The Cael Stone series it ends with our heroine in peril and still seeking her answers. I for one am eagerly waiting for the adventure to continue in book 2.
I was fortunate to win my copy of The Last Falcon in a Goodreads giveaway. I hope one of the larger publishing houses picks this series up and gives it the attention it deserves.
Who are the enemies conspiring to control the kingdom of Alyria and maybe all of Valentia?
What is the legacy past to her by the mother she never knew?
What ties her to the golden dragon, Krystalix, who keeps swooping in when she is in danger?
Since this is the first volume in The Cael Stone series it ends with our heroine in peril and still seeking her answers. I for one am eagerly waiting for the adventure to continue in book 2.
I was fortunate to win my copy of The Last Falcon in a Goodreads giveaway. I hope one of the larger publishing houses picks this series up and gives it the attention it deserves.
January 2, 2014
This book is an interesting start for both a series and an author, but I felt it dragged in a few different places, and there were places I would have loved to feel more of a building excitement. I also felt like the dialog was a bit wordy, and could have been cut or edited in places to give it a better flow. But I am very interested in the dragons, and what might happen next. And lucky enough for me, I already have my hands on the second one from a goodreads giveaway!
December 15, 2013
Really enjoyed reading this book..I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads. All the conspiracy and secrets and twists...now I have all these questions, but don't want to post them and spoil the book for others..can not wait for the next book!!! Thanks for giving this book on Goodread and thanks also for the autograph..my first autographed book!
November 13, 2013
I enjoyed this story very much. Im sorry it took so long for me to read it. I will be looking for futire books from this author! :)
February 10, 2014
Excellent read. Very engaging and entertaining from the get go. It left a lot of unanswered loose ties for book 2 but I'll be patient. Very good read.
December 15, 2013
I liked this book and am all about fantasy and dragons!! My local library doesn't carry the next one tho. :( Thanks for the chance to read this book
July 3, 2020
This is a very well done coming of age story - for girls. The protagonist is believable. She is not perfect. She is not all powerful. She is a fairly normal girl, raised by a pair of loving parents until first her mother dies of disease and then her father by bandits. But maybe not everything about Erynn is normal. There is something different about her, something that is causing trouble to follow her like a lost, lonely puppy.
This is an adventure story and a mystery and a quest. Erynn is just a girl, or that is her belief at the beginning. When trouble comes for her, she listens to the last thing her father told her - "Don't let them catch you, Erynn. Run." She follows the last instructions of her king - to flee. She has a lot of people trying to catch her and only one person she can truly trust. Two sixteen year old girls, very little training and a kingdom hunting them.
This is a catchy story. It is well written. The plot is feasible and even the twists work well. The girls are believable and age appropriate for who and what they are. They are not nobility. They are not trained warriors. They are girls who are trying to make the world around them make sense and survive the fact that their kingdom is collapsing into chaos around them. I was rooting for them from page one and got really upset when I realized I had hit the end of the story but not the whole tale.
This is an adventure story and a mystery and a quest. Erynn is just a girl, or that is her belief at the beginning. When trouble comes for her, she listens to the last thing her father told her - "Don't let them catch you, Erynn. Run." She follows the last instructions of her king - to flee. She has a lot of people trying to catch her and only one person she can truly trust. Two sixteen year old girls, very little training and a kingdom hunting them.
This is a catchy story. It is well written. The plot is feasible and even the twists work well. The girls are believable and age appropriate for who and what they are. They are not nobility. They are not trained warriors. They are girls who are trying to make the world around them make sense and survive the fact that their kingdom is collapsing into chaos around them. I was rooting for them from page one and got really upset when I realized I had hit the end of the story but not the whole tale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2018
Captivating
I didn't want to put it down. It was intriguing the way you found out information a little at a time, just enough to keep you wondering what would happen next. I would recommend this book.
I didn't want to put it down. It was intriguing the way you found out information a little at a time, just enough to keep you wondering what would happen next. I would recommend this book.
June 6, 2018
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
December 5, 2019
I really enjoyed this book, from start to end and I cannot wait to read the second one! Its a great read for anyone who loves fantasy with strong female leads
August 18, 2014
Dragon's and castles, right up my alley. Erynn was there when her father was murdered. When she took the news back to the King he was concerned and asked her to stay around and be his scribe. Erynn learns many things while she is at the castle, including the fact that Holden, the King's son is out to become the next King in any form or fashion that suits him, even though his older brother, Gareth, is truly the next King. However, Gareth is off to war and messages don't seem to be getting through to him or back to the King.
Erynn learns much as she fights to help the King and truly just barely escapes with her life when she learns that she is a Daughter of Meagan, a dragon whisperer, for lack of a better description, and for that reason people want her dead.
I truly enjoyed this story. I like the characters and feel that the story is light enough that the reader does not get bogged down in details. As I have a very good imagination when it comes to dragons and castles and knights I don't need a great deal of detail to get the picture.
Erynn learns much as she fights to help the King and truly just barely escapes with her life when she learns that she is a Daughter of Meagan, a dragon whisperer, for lack of a better description, and for that reason people want her dead.
I truly enjoyed this story. I like the characters and feel that the story is light enough that the reader does not get bogged down in details. As I have a very good imagination when it comes to dragons and castles and knights I don't need a great deal of detail to get the picture.
February 3, 2015
Good story. Just enough dragons and kings and subjects and servants. Erynn is taken in by the king when her parents die. Weird, yes. Why her? She seems to be a random girl but mate she isn't. She becomes a trusted scribe for the king but is also often punished by the cook with endless dishes to wash. Why things start getting exciting, it's hard to tell who Erynn can and should trust. It's a smidge bit annoying that her favorite phrase is "I don't understand". I'm sure she doesn't understand what is going on but STOP already. Generally, I liked it.
June 2, 2014
Bad YA, bad anything, even for free
Bad YA, bad anything, even for free
another self publishy/ed effort. the writing is competent, but plot, characters, believability lack. it just wasnt interesting enough to bother with. I managed to read about half, forcing myself, but, as I had no $ in this, that's where I quit. Nice writing skills, little else. Now I see a vol. 2 is out, surprise, I wont bother, believe me.
Bad YA, bad anything, even for free
another self publishy/ed effort. the writing is competent, but plot, characters, believability lack. it just wasnt interesting enough to bother with. I managed to read about half, forcing myself, but, as I had no $ in this, that's where I quit. Nice writing skills, little else. Now I see a vol. 2 is out, surprise, I wont bother, believe me.
October 6, 2014
Enjoyed the book. The characters are interestingly drawn. The heroine is not as courageous as some writers tend to make the heros' or heroines' overly courageous, brave blah blah. The ending makes you want to read the next book for sure. A lot of gaps about some characters but I suppose that's the author's sneaky way of making you wanting to read the next book! haha. It sure does.
October 7, 2014
I really liked this even though it's YA. I was all set to get the second in the series when this one ended abruptly. I should say stopped, it didn't end. I hate books that don't end at the ending. I feel cheated. It's my rule to never buy the next in the series when the first doesn't end. Too bad, I really would have liked to know what happens to the girls and I like dragon stories.
February 12, 2013
Won my copy of this in a giveaway here on goodreads, and am so glad I did. This book was one of the most enjoyable reads I have come across in a long time. I'd highly recommend it to anyone who's considering reading it!
September 13, 2014
This book was really good. As soon as I got going on reading it, I couldn't put it down. Now I need to know what's going to happen to the ladies of this story. I highly recommend this book, if you're into the middle ages and dragons.
June 6, 2014
First novel of new series The Cael Stone. Great intro to new fantasy saga. Magic, dragons, mystery, intrigue. Will keep you glued to your reading chair. The hunt is on for the last falcon with life and death in the balance.
January 4, 2016
A fun,quick read. If you need a quick escape...it's a good one.
It's a pretty quick read, but entertaining. The characters develop quite a bit as you progress through the book. I'm guessing there will be more "meat" in the next one...which I am about to find out ;-)
It's a pretty quick read, but entertaining. The characters develop quite a bit as you progress through the book. I'm guessing there will be more "meat" in the next one...which I am about to find out ;-)
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