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Nine Kingdoms #8
River of Dreams
Aisling of Bruadair is frantic to find both the truth about her future and a mercenary to save her country. When an offer of aid comes from an unexpected direction, she is relieved her quest is almost complete. But she soon realizes her task is far from over . . . and will include perils she never dreamed she would ever face.
Rùnach of Ceangail has offered to help Aisling with her quest, then he fully intends to take up his life as a simple swordsman far from magic and evil mages. Unfortunately, a chance finding of a book of indecipherable spells tells him that an ordinary life is never going to be his--especially when he realizes that the book he has in his hands belongs to a black mage who will stop at nothing to have it back.
With time running out, Rùnach and Aisling must solve what seem to be unrelated mysteries before others find those answers first and plunge the Nine Kingdoms into a darkness it will never recover from . . .
Rùnach of Ceangail has offered to help Aisling with her quest, then he fully intends to take up his life as a simple swordsman far from magic and evil mages. Unfortunately, a chance finding of a book of indecipherable spells tells him that an ordinary life is never going to be his--especially when he realizes that the book he has in his hands belongs to a black mage who will stop at nothing to have it back.
With time running out, Rùnach and Aisling must solve what seem to be unrelated mysteries before others find those answers first and plunge the Nine Kingdoms into a darkness it will never recover from . . .
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2014
23 people are currently reading
1042 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Kurland
69 books1,568 followersLynn began her writing career at the tender age of five with a series of illustrated novellas entitled Clinton’s Troubles in which the compelling hero found himself in all sorts of . . . well, trouble. She was living in Hawaii at the time and the scope for her imagination (poisoned fish, tropical cliffs, large spiders) was great and poor Clinton bore the brunt of it. After returning to the mainland, her writing gave way to training in classical music and Clinton, who had been felled with arrows, eaten by fish and sent tumbling off cars, was put aside for operatic heroes in tights.
Somehow during high school, in between bouts of Verdi and Rossini, she managed to find time to submerge herself in equal parts Tolkien, Barbara Cartland and Mad Magazine. During college, a chance encounter with a large library stack of romances left her hooked, gave her the courage to put pen to paper herself, and finally satisfied that need for a little bit of fantasy with a whole lot of romance!
Somehow during high school, in between bouts of Verdi and Rossini, she managed to find time to submerge herself in equal parts Tolkien, Barbara Cartland and Mad Magazine. During college, a chance encounter with a large library stack of romances left her hooked, gave her the courage to put pen to paper herself, and finally satisfied that need for a little bit of fantasy with a whole lot of romance!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 18, 2017
After reading the first six books in this series and being quite sick of it since the fourth, I've elected to not continue with this series. Why put myself through the pain when there's so many other great books waiting for me?
January 8, 2014
River of Dreams, written by Lynn Kurland, is the highly anticipated 8th installment into the fantastic Nine Kingdom’s series. It is Book # 2 of the third trilogy; following the quest of Runach of Ceingail and Aisling of Bruadair. If I could describe this caliber of writing in only one sentence, I would state that these books are like music…a rhapsody not for the ears, but for the eyes. Lynn Kurland is perhaps the only author I have ever contemplated buying the audio version, over the written–simply so I can listen to her phonetic style of pen being read aloud. I have never come across such lyricism before, and therefore cannot accurately describe. It is a signature stamp of authenticity, if you will, for the old world feeling one receives upon visiting a series such as this, and something a reader must personally experience, in order to fully understand.
For anyone who has ever wondered at what the “romantic” side of the Fantasy genre has to offer, I urge you to pick up these books. And furthermore, I dare you not to love every second you spend reading them. As a long time patron of Fantasy…I cannot get enough of this series, and would recommend them to any, and all types of readers. Although it could be said, that this novel differed from the non-stop action level found in some of the other work of this series, Ms. Kurland maintains a superb balance with intriguing mystery, heart rending emotion, and tenderness. While I found myself laughing more so with the previous installment Dreamspinner, than with any other novel of the series…in contrast, this book took me in the complete opposite direction.
While River of Dreams held an abundance of humor filled banter between main, and secondary characters–it wouldn’t be a novel of the Nine Kingdoms without such moments after all–this newest addition tugged continuously, and mercilessly at my heartstrings. It showcases what I find to be the most profoundly emotional scene since the second installment; Mage’s Daughter. And may I just say, if books were to be nominated for categories like we see on the big screen…the award for first kiss, goes to Runach and Aisling–hands down. Such a raw, endearing, beautifully romantic moment. My toes curled a little, not gonna lie. I have always been a reader that feels drawn to the emotion contained within a story, more so than with any other element. The Nine Kingdom’s series is teeming with sentiment…one of the many, many reasons this particular series is amongst my most treasured.
With each release, there is something new brought to the table, and River of Dreams was no exception. It can best be defined as a journey to self awareness. Our hero Runach–is a character readers have come to know since the first trilogy of this series. Yet in this installment, we see a transformation, that not even he, himself thought was possible. I must say…I suspected way back upon our first meeting with Runach, and yet this author cleverly derailed my theories at every turn. How ironic to find my suspicions were correct all these books later…and yet the delivery of such, was done in a way I NEVER saw coming. Like our Runach, there is nothing I love more than a good mystery. Kudos for keeping me guessing Ms. Kurland–when I consider myself a veteran at following clues. *laughing*
Which leads me to our female lead, Aisling–who is fast becoming my most favorite heroine of the series. Admittedly, Morgan (from the first trilogy) is a tough character to overthrow. However, Aisling is unique in a way I have come across very rarely in literature. Our first impression of Aisling can be compared to the location with which we first meet her. Like Buel, our heroine is bereft of color, light, and emotion…bereft of life. She is essentially a blank canvas, with which Ms. Kurland gradually adds lines, shading, and contours. Once her character begins to take shape, we glimpse subtle changes here, and there. At first, seeing only minute sprinkles of color, until it morphs into bold, glittering splashes of paint. With each page we turn, Aisling simply….comes to life before our very eyes.
In closing, River of Dreams finally provides a culmination of answers, to many long running questions. How will our hero protect himself, and the woman he has come to love, now that he lacks the magic that once ran within his veins? Who was responsible for our heroine’s dire escape from a life of slavery…and why she was enslaved in the first place? What profound knowledge do Runach’s villainous half-brother’s believe they can filch from within his mind? Many more questions come upon the wake of these answers. What roll could a simple weaver from Bruadair, and a self exiled, elven Prince–possibly play within the nefarious game of darkness that has begun in the Nine Kingdoms? Perhaps most importantly, who…or what is Aisling herself? Together, our hero’s will work towards unearthing the secrets of who they once were, and will define who they have presently become. Both struggle to come to terms with what their places will be in the future. And readers will bear witness…as the fresh bloom of their love is tested against such a cacophony.
Time after time, book after book, Lynn Kurland crafts a tale vividly alive with imagination. Like the power with which her character’s wield, she weaves stories with a magic that could only be conjured from dreams. I look forward to learning where the third and final installment of Aisling, and Runach’s harrowing journey will take us
Review also available at www.thereadingcafe.com
For anyone who has ever wondered at what the “romantic” side of the Fantasy genre has to offer, I urge you to pick up these books. And furthermore, I dare you not to love every second you spend reading them. As a long time patron of Fantasy…I cannot get enough of this series, and would recommend them to any, and all types of readers. Although it could be said, that this novel differed from the non-stop action level found in some of the other work of this series, Ms. Kurland maintains a superb balance with intriguing mystery, heart rending emotion, and tenderness. While I found myself laughing more so with the previous installment Dreamspinner, than with any other novel of the series…in contrast, this book took me in the complete opposite direction.
While River of Dreams held an abundance of humor filled banter between main, and secondary characters–it wouldn’t be a novel of the Nine Kingdoms without such moments after all–this newest addition tugged continuously, and mercilessly at my heartstrings. It showcases what I find to be the most profoundly emotional scene since the second installment; Mage’s Daughter. And may I just say, if books were to be nominated for categories like we see on the big screen…the award for first kiss, goes to Runach and Aisling–hands down. Such a raw, endearing, beautifully romantic moment. My toes curled a little, not gonna lie. I have always been a reader that feels drawn to the emotion contained within a story, more so than with any other element. The Nine Kingdom’s series is teeming with sentiment…one of the many, many reasons this particular series is amongst my most treasured.
With each release, there is something new brought to the table, and River of Dreams was no exception. It can best be defined as a journey to self awareness. Our hero Runach–is a character readers have come to know since the first trilogy of this series. Yet in this installment, we see a transformation, that not even he, himself thought was possible. I must say…I suspected way back upon our first meeting with Runach, and yet this author cleverly derailed my theories at every turn. How ironic to find my suspicions were correct all these books later…and yet the delivery of such, was done in a way I NEVER saw coming. Like our Runach, there is nothing I love more than a good mystery. Kudos for keeping me guessing Ms. Kurland–when I consider myself a veteran at following clues. *laughing*
Which leads me to our female lead, Aisling–who is fast becoming my most favorite heroine of the series. Admittedly, Morgan (from the first trilogy) is a tough character to overthrow. However, Aisling is unique in a way I have come across very rarely in literature. Our first impression of Aisling can be compared to the location with which we first meet her. Like Buel, our heroine is bereft of color, light, and emotion…bereft of life. She is essentially a blank canvas, with which Ms. Kurland gradually adds lines, shading, and contours. Once her character begins to take shape, we glimpse subtle changes here, and there. At first, seeing only minute sprinkles of color, until it morphs into bold, glittering splashes of paint. With each page we turn, Aisling simply….comes to life before our very eyes.
In closing, River of Dreams finally provides a culmination of answers, to many long running questions. How will our hero protect himself, and the woman he has come to love, now that he lacks the magic that once ran within his veins? Who was responsible for our heroine’s dire escape from a life of slavery…and why she was enslaved in the first place? What profound knowledge do Runach’s villainous half-brother’s believe they can filch from within his mind? Many more questions come upon the wake of these answers. What roll could a simple weaver from Bruadair, and a self exiled, elven Prince–possibly play within the nefarious game of darkness that has begun in the Nine Kingdoms? Perhaps most importantly, who…or what is Aisling herself? Together, our hero’s will work towards unearthing the secrets of who they once were, and will define who they have presently become. Both struggle to come to terms with what their places will be in the future. And readers will bear witness…as the fresh bloom of their love is tested against such a cacophony.
Time after time, book after book, Lynn Kurland crafts a tale vividly alive with imagination. Like the power with which her character’s wield, she weaves stories with a magic that could only be conjured from dreams. I look forward to learning where the third and final installment of Aisling, and Runach’s harrowing journey will take us
Review also available at www.thereadingcafe.com
December 19, 2013
River of Dreams will sweep you away with its flowing plot line and deep characters. This is one fantasy book that will take you for an entertaining journey along side Aisling and Rùnach.
What began in Dreamspinner (or if you want to get technical: Book One, Star of the Morning) continues on in River of Dreams. Aisling has escaped Bruadaiar and is traveling in search of a hero. Rùnach is playing valiant knight and sticking around to help the pretty damsel. Every now and then he really is helpful, despite him being powerless. Sure helps to know powerful people when one is on a quest.
Aisling and Rùnach dodge his brothers, nearly get caught stealing a book and end up visiting Rùnach’s grandparents. Aisling’s eyes have been opened to what has been hidden from her and you do feel as if you are exploring her world too. When they visit the dwarf king you can almost hear the rocks whispering to Aisling.
Kurland’s writing has its very own lyrical quality. The way they speak is unique and you slip into reading it easily. She also writes with humor, particularly Rùnach. He is clever and doesn’t let his words slip, but he also is adept at saying what he wants without spelling it out.
This book is a quest, and it is not done yet. The ending is happy in a way, but leaves you hanging and ready to find out the end of their journey. Kurland revealed some important things and had something huge happen to Rùnach. No more can really be said, you just need to read this!
Alternate review posted at Reading Between the Wines:
http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
*ARC copy courtesy of publisher in return for an honest review
What began in Dreamspinner (or if you want to get technical: Book One, Star of the Morning) continues on in River of Dreams. Aisling has escaped Bruadaiar and is traveling in search of a hero. Rùnach is playing valiant knight and sticking around to help the pretty damsel. Every now and then he really is helpful, despite him being powerless. Sure helps to know powerful people when one is on a quest.
Aisling and Rùnach dodge his brothers, nearly get caught stealing a book and end up visiting Rùnach’s grandparents. Aisling’s eyes have been opened to what has been hidden from her and you do feel as if you are exploring her world too. When they visit the dwarf king you can almost hear the rocks whispering to Aisling.
Kurland’s writing has its very own lyrical quality. The way they speak is unique and you slip into reading it easily. She also writes with humor, particularly Rùnach. He is clever and doesn’t let his words slip, but he also is adept at saying what he wants without spelling it out.
This book is a quest, and it is not done yet. The ending is happy in a way, but leaves you hanging and ready to find out the end of their journey. Kurland revealed some important things and had something huge happen to Rùnach. No more can really be said, you just need to read this!
Alternate review posted at Reading Between the Wines:
http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
*ARC copy courtesy of publisher in return for an honest review
December 20, 2013
I have to admit, I really love each foray into the Nine Kingdoms world... even if the story isn't unique or special, I love the trip to a world where men have lovely manners and magic is in the very air around the characters. That is an addictive quality that keeps bringing me back.
Runach of Torr Dorain is an elven prince who has lost his magic and is scarred from a terrible experience that caused the deaths of half of his family. Despite these devastating blows, he knows he has many centuries to fill up. As an elf, he has a long life ahead and the best he thinks he can achieve is to be a guardsman for a minor lord. Until Aisling comes into his life and he finds himself willing to go on her quest to save her kingdom. To do that, Aisling has a deadline and the need to find a mercenary assassin. In this the second book of the trilogy, Aisling and Runach are beginning to see that the quest to save Bruadair for Aisling may be connected to the problems that Runach is having with his illegitimate half brothers. The book starts off with a lot of activity as Runach and Aisling make a daring escape with his half brother hot on his heels.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/1...
Runach of Torr Dorain is an elven prince who has lost his magic and is scarred from a terrible experience that caused the deaths of half of his family. Despite these devastating blows, he knows he has many centuries to fill up. As an elf, he has a long life ahead and the best he thinks he can achieve is to be a guardsman for a minor lord. Until Aisling comes into his life and he finds himself willing to go on her quest to save her kingdom. To do that, Aisling has a deadline and the need to find a mercenary assassin. In this the second book of the trilogy, Aisling and Runach are beginning to see that the quest to save Bruadair for Aisling may be connected to the problems that Runach is having with his illegitimate half brothers. The book starts off with a lot of activity as Runach and Aisling make a daring escape with his half brother hot on his heels.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2013/1...
January 14, 2014
Lynn Kurland is one of my favorite authors for many reasons. She writes a story that keeps you coming back for more without foul language and inappropriate material. River of Dreams is the 8th book in the 9 kingdoms series. The first 3 were about Morgan and Miach, the next 3 were about Morgans brother Riutneadh & Sarah and this next trio is about their brother Runach and Aisling. This book didn't have as much action, but their quest leads them from place to place learning more and more about Aislings land and her "magic" that she doesn't think she has. Their romance is very sweet or at least Runachs attempt at wooing her is fun to watch unfold. She thinks she's unworthy because she is "nobody" and he is a prince. In the end they realize she is a dream spinner and apparently a very powerful one. Their quest is to restore her country to its rightful King and bring back the magic and color. I loved revisiting characters/kings from the other books. That is one of the reasons I love LK books. LK's De Piaget and McCloud series are good too, but I love the 9 Kingdoms the best. I am anxious for the 9th book in this series! The finale should be exciting!
July 8, 2025
Liked the story better than the last trio.
May 8, 2020
Eighth in the Nine Kingdoms fantasy series (the second installment of the third sub-trilogy) and revolving around Gair of Ceangail’s dead children with a particular focus on Prince Rùnach and Aisling of Bruadair.
My Take
Poor Aisling. She comes from a dour, depressing, and gray country. Slowly, she's learning of the lies she's been told, making this a hard quest for the gel. And we learn about the dreamspinners of Bruadair!
Kurland is using third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Aisling's and Rùnach's perspectives, which means we experience their thoughts and emotions. And this means we hear all about their thoughts about themselves as they experience their character arcs.
With each step into Aisling's story, a little more of her truth is revealed...the spinning, the dreams, the threads that lead to the magic in her world that speaks to her. Her introspection continues as well as she comes to her own conclusions about her part in the quest set her in Dreamspinner , 7. Rùnach's thoughts revolve around his growing love for Aisling, his past behaviors, and what he can do to help Aisling. Fortunately, he stops going on about how he's going to find an obscure garrison and become a simple guard. Like that was ever gonna happen.
Kurland provides another tidbit of back history on Sarait with yet another reason why she originally married Gair. Ruith gives Rùnach a truth as well, that their father disliked him the most. Lol, it's a "dislike" that is much appreciated by Rùnach and was spurred by their father's jealousy. What a small man!
Much more annoying is that Rùnach doesn't think Aisling has any magic. Just what does he consider all those things that Aisling can do??
Fortunately for at least one of the characters, your abilities are like anything you know. You start with a base of something and add skill and knowledge as you go.
I do adore Iteach. He brings such levity to the tale. More humor, and quite subtle about it, is how these brothers of Ceangail court their women. They're so diffident about it, lol.
While there is action, it's primarily character-centric in this tale of what you do unto others will rebound upon you, with Rùnach pointing to his father as an excellent example of what happens when you do ill to others.
We finally meet the witchwoman of Fàs! And I suspect she inspired the tale of Hansel and Gretel!! Eeek! An engrossing character and one around whom one should exercise GREAT care!
It's a fascinating land with its kingdoms ruled by elves and mages with all the usual friendships and animosities any world would have. Of those who accept each other, they are cautious friends and yet most generous in giving aid to Rùnach and Aisling. It's like a close-knit family with underlying peeves.
River of Dreams is not a fast read, in fact it's more of a bridge story in which Aisling and Rùnach finally reach an important conclusion about the lack of color and where the magic is going.
Coincidence? We think not.
The Story
Pushed out of her country by that peddler, Aisling was commanded to find a mercenary to save her country.
Her life will depend on sorting lie from truth.
The Characters
Aisling of Bruadair had escaped her weaving apprenticeship in Beul and is discovering the lies she's been fed.
Rùnach of Ceangail is the second eldest of seven siblings and an elven prince who has no magic. Iteach is the shapechanging horse gifted to Rùnach by his grandfather Sgath. And that horse is quite intelligent with one heck of a sense of humor, lol.
Rùnach's Family Background
Rùnach's mother was Princess Sarait of Tòrr Dòrainn with grand plans to stop her odious husband, Gair. Rùnach's six siblings include Mhorghain "Morgan" who married Miach a few months ago ( Dreamspinner ). Ruithneadh "Ruith" is his youngest brother who married Sarah of Doire who can spin and See ( A Tapestry of Spells , 4; Spellweaver , 5; and, Gift of Magic , 6). Keir was their oldest brother ( Princess of the Sword , 3).
Prince Sgath (he prefers fishing) and Eulasaid are his maternal grandparents (Gair's parents) who prefer living at Lake Cladach.
Tòrr Dòrainn is...
...the elven kingdom of Sìle, his paternal grandfather who is quite proud and arrogant; Brèagha is his easygoing, artistic grandmother from the little known country of An Céin whose magic few desire. Seanagarra is the name of Sìle's palace. They had seven children, including Làidir, the oldest and Sìle's heir and Sosar who lost his magic ( Princess of the Sword ). Còir is Làidir's second son and a cousin interested in Aisling.
Giollan is the page assigned to Aisling. The officious Leabhrach is the head librarian. Dionadair is Sìle's guard captain.
Bruadair is...
...Aisling's homeland, one surrounded by "thorns" and much secrecy and littered with lakes. Beul is its capital where Sglaimir, Carach's grandson, rules. There are two languages here: Deuraich and High Deuraich, which is forbidden and more beautiful. Mistress Muinear was the weaving mistress who took such an interest in Aisling.
Frèam is the king who was deposed; Leaghra his queen (and Sarah's great-aunt; Gift of Magic ). Under their rule, Brèagha remembers the country as an ethereal dream. Sealladh had been Frèam's grandfather and the king beguiled by a mage. Alexandra is Frèam's niece in whom Ochadius is interested.
Carach of Mùig was a nasty mage who challenged King Tochail, Uachdaran's great-great-grandfather to a duel.
Beinn òain is where...
...Buidseachd, the wizard university, is located and where Soilléir is one of the instructors, a master wizard who is the keeper of the spells of essence changing, and the youngest son of the crown prince of Cothromaiche. He never interferes. Rùnach hid with Soilleir for twenty years. The evil Droch of Saothair is another and the master of the spells of Olc.
Durial is…
…the kingdom of the dwarves and is ruled by King Uachdaran from the rock-solid city of Léige. Seamus is a young page. Riaraiche is the king's steward. Ollamh is the king's physick. The very nervous Eachdraidh is bard to the king and keeper of perilous books.
Cothromaiche is...
...the kingdom ruled by King Seannair. The king's grandsons include Astar, Soilléir, and Franciscus, who is the one who brought Ceangail down (he's also Sarah's grandfather). Annastashia of Cothromaiche seems to have been interested in Rùnach in the past...hmmm...
The University of Lismòr was...
...founded by Nicholas, the former wizard king of Diarmailt who had been married to one of Sìle's daughters (and a sister to Sarait).
Diarmailt is...
...or rather, had been, Nicholas' kingdom before he gave it over to his nephew Simeon (and Rùnach's cousin). Who managed to lose it and is now a mere duchy. Master Laibridh is its library's head librarian. Fàileadh is a guard who can smell magic. Secretary Rùnaire attempts to provide an escort.
Neroche is...
...the kingdom that King Mochriadhemiach "Miach" of Neroche rules with his new queen, Morgan. His brothers include Mansourah who travels a great deal. Their mother had been Desdhemar of Wrekin, an impetuous queen who enjoyed filching spells as much as her son does and friendly with Sarait. Who also pinched spells, lol. Adhémar had been Miach's oldest brother and the previous king ( Star of the Morning , 1; The Mage’s Daughter , 2; and, Princess of the Sword ). Mistress Ceana is their master spinner who taught Aisling.
Ainneamh is...
...another elven kingdom bordering Tòrr Dòrainn and ruled by Ehrne, Síle's obnoxious nephew and Rùnach's cousin. It's also Sgath's boyhood home. Surdail is the captain of the king's guards.
An-uallach is...
...a kingdom ruled by the wicked and unscrupulous Queen Morag ( Gift of Magic ).
Riamh is/was...
...ruled by Lothar of Wychweald, another black mage.
Scrymgeour Weger is a master swordsman who runs a school in Gobhann. Prince Ochadius, a cousin of Weger’s, who wrote The Strictures of Scrymgeour Weger. Both men are descendants of Lothar's.
There are five great libraries in the Nine Kingdoms: Tor Neroche plus those at the palace of Chagailt, Buidseachd, Faodail in Gairn, the university at Lismòr, and Eòlas in Diarmailt.
Gair, a wicked evil black mage, who didn't die! Besides his legitimate sons, Gair also fathered seven natural sons with Fionne, the witchwoman of Fàs, who has no functioning moral compass. The half-brothers included Díolain, who is the powerful eldest; Amitàn; Gàrlach the sixth; and, Acair, who is the youngest and cruel for the fun of it.
The magics of the Nine Kingdoms may be tied to the land or be more universal, transcending boundaries and include Croxteth, Fadaire, and Olc. The spell of Diminishing is an evil one created by Gair to drain every drop of a mage's magic. Some of the runes involved are Comraich, a gathering of something in to protect it; Teasraig; and, Sonairte.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a study in pastels but for the deeper peach of Aisling's cloak billowing to the right, while she stands in profile, her head turned towards us, long blonde hair floating around her face, as she prepares to draw her bow while wearing a bracer on her left forearm. Her own dress is a layered affair with a sleeveless mint green dress overlaying a grayer mint green skirt, graying brown boots coming halfway up her calves. She stands on a rocky shore, wildflowers growing in the crevices on the shore of a blue-green lake with a castle in the background atop a creamy rock cliff with yet another mountain behind it and another to the right. Most of the text is in white from the info blurb at the top to the blue shadowed author's name below that, and the series info at the very bottom. The title itself spans the lower half of Aisling's body in a blue shaded metallic gold that is visible at the right angle.
The title is what bothers so many, that River of Dreams flowing throughout with its slow reveal.
My Take
Poor Aisling. She comes from a dour, depressing, and gray country. Slowly, she's learning of the lies she's been told, making this a hard quest for the gel. And we learn about the dreamspinners of Bruadair!
Kurland is using third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Aisling's and Rùnach's perspectives, which means we experience their thoughts and emotions. And this means we hear all about their thoughts about themselves as they experience their character arcs.
With each step into Aisling's story, a little more of her truth is revealed...the spinning, the dreams, the threads that lead to the magic in her world that speaks to her. Her introspection continues as well as she comes to her own conclusions about her part in the quest set her in Dreamspinner , 7. Rùnach's thoughts revolve around his growing love for Aisling, his past behaviors, and what he can do to help Aisling. Fortunately, he stops going on about how he's going to find an obscure garrison and become a simple guard. Like that was ever gonna happen.
Kurland provides another tidbit of back history on Sarait with yet another reason why she originally married Gair. Ruith gives Rùnach a truth as well, that their father disliked him the most. Lol, it's a "dislike" that is much appreciated by Rùnach and was spurred by their father's jealousy. What a small man!
"Don't measure your life in years ... measure it in memories."It is rather annoying that so many of the background characters know who Aisling is and yet refuse to say anything. *Wry grin*, it's got to be frustrating for them as well.
Much more annoying is that Rùnach doesn't think Aisling has any magic. Just what does he consider all those things that Aisling can do??
Fortunately for at least one of the characters, your abilities are like anything you know. You start with a base of something and add skill and knowledge as you go.
I do adore Iteach. He brings such levity to the tale. More humor, and quite subtle about it, is how these brothers of Ceangail court their women. They're so diffident about it, lol.
"...considering the number of hearts he had perhaps wounded that it would have served him right if Aisling had cut his from his chest with a dull blade and stomped on it..."I do love how protective all the other elves (and dwarves) are of Aisling. That should be telling Rùnach something...!
While there is action, it's primarily character-centric in this tale of what you do unto others will rebound upon you, with Rùnach pointing to his father as an excellent example of what happens when you do ill to others.
We finally meet the witchwoman of Fàs! And I suspect she inspired the tale of Hansel and Gretel!! Eeek! An engrossing character and one around whom one should exercise GREAT care!
It's a fascinating land with its kingdoms ruled by elves and mages with all the usual friendships and animosities any world would have. Of those who accept each other, they are cautious friends and yet most generous in giving aid to Rùnach and Aisling. It's like a close-knit family with underlying peeves.
River of Dreams is not a fast read, in fact it's more of a bridge story in which Aisling and Rùnach finally reach an important conclusion about the lack of color and where the magic is going.
Coincidence? We think not.
The Story
Pushed out of her country by that peddler, Aisling was commanded to find a mercenary to save her country.
Her life will depend on sorting lie from truth.
The Characters
Aisling of Bruadair had escaped her weaving apprenticeship in Beul and is discovering the lies she's been fed.
Rùnach of Ceangail is the second eldest of seven siblings and an elven prince who has no magic. Iteach is the shapechanging horse gifted to Rùnach by his grandfather Sgath. And that horse is quite intelligent with one heck of a sense of humor, lol.
Rùnach's Family Background
Rùnach's mother was Princess Sarait of Tòrr Dòrainn with grand plans to stop her odious husband, Gair. Rùnach's six siblings include Mhorghain "Morgan" who married Miach a few months ago ( Dreamspinner ). Ruithneadh "Ruith" is his youngest brother who married Sarah of Doire who can spin and See ( A Tapestry of Spells , 4; Spellweaver , 5; and, Gift of Magic , 6). Keir was their oldest brother ( Princess of the Sword , 3).
Prince Sgath (he prefers fishing) and Eulasaid are his maternal grandparents (Gair's parents) who prefer living at Lake Cladach.
Tòrr Dòrainn is...
...the elven kingdom of Sìle, his paternal grandfather who is quite proud and arrogant; Brèagha is his easygoing, artistic grandmother from the little known country of An Céin whose magic few desire. Seanagarra is the name of Sìle's palace. They had seven children, including Làidir, the oldest and Sìle's heir and Sosar who lost his magic ( Princess of the Sword ). Còir is Làidir's second son and a cousin interested in Aisling.
Giollan is the page assigned to Aisling. The officious Leabhrach is the head librarian. Dionadair is Sìle's guard captain.
Bruadair is...
...Aisling's homeland, one surrounded by "thorns" and much secrecy and littered with lakes. Beul is its capital where Sglaimir, Carach's grandson, rules. There are two languages here: Deuraich and High Deuraich, which is forbidden and more beautiful. Mistress Muinear was the weaving mistress who took such an interest in Aisling.
Frèam is the king who was deposed; Leaghra his queen (and Sarah's great-aunt; Gift of Magic ). Under their rule, Brèagha remembers the country as an ethereal dream. Sealladh had been Frèam's grandfather and the king beguiled by a mage. Alexandra is Frèam's niece in whom Ochadius is interested.
Carach of Mùig was a nasty mage who challenged King Tochail, Uachdaran's great-great-grandfather to a duel.
Beinn òain is where...
...Buidseachd, the wizard university, is located and where Soilléir is one of the instructors, a master wizard who is the keeper of the spells of essence changing, and the youngest son of the crown prince of Cothromaiche. He never interferes. Rùnach hid with Soilleir for twenty years. The evil Droch of Saothair is another and the master of the spells of Olc.
Durial is…
…the kingdom of the dwarves and is ruled by King Uachdaran from the rock-solid city of Léige. Seamus is a young page. Riaraiche is the king's steward. Ollamh is the king's physick. The very nervous Eachdraidh is bard to the king and keeper of perilous books.
Cothromaiche is...
...the kingdom ruled by King Seannair. The king's grandsons include Astar, Soilléir, and Franciscus, who is the one who brought Ceangail down (he's also Sarah's grandfather). Annastashia of Cothromaiche seems to have been interested in Rùnach in the past...hmmm...
The University of Lismòr was...
...founded by Nicholas, the former wizard king of Diarmailt who had been married to one of Sìle's daughters (and a sister to Sarait).
Diarmailt is...
...or rather, had been, Nicholas' kingdom before he gave it over to his nephew Simeon (and Rùnach's cousin). Who managed to lose it and is now a mere duchy. Master Laibridh is its library's head librarian. Fàileadh is a guard who can smell magic. Secretary Rùnaire attempts to provide an escort.
Neroche is...
...the kingdom that King Mochriadhemiach "Miach" of Neroche rules with his new queen, Morgan. His brothers include Mansourah who travels a great deal. Their mother had been Desdhemar of Wrekin, an impetuous queen who enjoyed filching spells as much as her son does and friendly with Sarait. Who also pinched spells, lol. Adhémar had been Miach's oldest brother and the previous king ( Star of the Morning , 1; The Mage’s Daughter , 2; and, Princess of the Sword ). Mistress Ceana is their master spinner who taught Aisling.
Ainneamh is...
...another elven kingdom bordering Tòrr Dòrainn and ruled by Ehrne, Síle's obnoxious nephew and Rùnach's cousin. It's also Sgath's boyhood home. Surdail is the captain of the king's guards.
An-uallach is...
...a kingdom ruled by the wicked and unscrupulous Queen Morag ( Gift of Magic ).
Riamh is/was...
...ruled by Lothar of Wychweald, another black mage.
Scrymgeour Weger is a master swordsman who runs a school in Gobhann. Prince Ochadius, a cousin of Weger’s, who wrote The Strictures of Scrymgeour Weger. Both men are descendants of Lothar's.
There are five great libraries in the Nine Kingdoms: Tor Neroche plus those at the palace of Chagailt, Buidseachd, Faodail in Gairn, the university at Lismòr, and Eòlas in Diarmailt.
Gair, a wicked evil black mage, who didn't die! Besides his legitimate sons, Gair also fathered seven natural sons with Fionne, the witchwoman of Fàs, who has no functioning moral compass. The half-brothers included Díolain, who is the powerful eldest; Amitàn; Gàrlach the sixth; and, Acair, who is the youngest and cruel for the fun of it.
The magics of the Nine Kingdoms may be tied to the land or be more universal, transcending boundaries and include Croxteth, Fadaire, and Olc. The spell of Diminishing is an evil one created by Gair to drain every drop of a mage's magic. Some of the runes involved are Comraich, a gathering of something in to protect it; Teasraig; and, Sonairte.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a study in pastels but for the deeper peach of Aisling's cloak billowing to the right, while she stands in profile, her head turned towards us, long blonde hair floating around her face, as she prepares to draw her bow while wearing a bracer on her left forearm. Her own dress is a layered affair with a sleeveless mint green dress overlaying a grayer mint green skirt, graying brown boots coming halfway up her calves. She stands on a rocky shore, wildflowers growing in the crevices on the shore of a blue-green lake with a castle in the background atop a creamy rock cliff with yet another mountain behind it and another to the right. Most of the text is in white from the info blurb at the top to the blue shadowed author's name below that, and the series info at the very bottom. The title itself spans the lower half of Aisling's body in a blue shaded metallic gold that is visible at the right angle.
The title is what bothers so many, that River of Dreams flowing throughout with its slow reveal.
June 29, 2015
The first two-thirds of the book made me want to rate this one a 2, but then something happened that made the story better and made it worthy of a 3.
This one took me a lot longer to get through than her Nine Kingdom books usually do. I have to say, Runach was kind of poorly written in this one. He just kept doing/saying the same things over and over and over and over again... nothing original there. And his going on and on about how Aisling is just a girl/weaver, she couldn't possibly be ANYTHING else - really? I guess what I am trying to say is these stories are getting kind of predictable and a little ridiculous in their "twists" - how many magical people can really disappear and then suddenly reappear?
I am really hoping something better happens in the next book... and then, I think I will be done with this series. It's the same storyline every time... and sorry, but not a single one is living up to the original Morgan/Miach story.
This one took me a lot longer to get through than her Nine Kingdom books usually do. I have to say, Runach was kind of poorly written in this one. He just kept doing/saying the same things over and over and over and over again... nothing original there. And his going on and on about how Aisling is just a girl/weaver, she couldn't possibly be ANYTHING else - really? I guess what I am trying to say is these stories are getting kind of predictable and a little ridiculous in their "twists" - how many magical people can really disappear and then suddenly reappear?
I am really hoping something better happens in the next book... and then, I think I will be done with this series. It's the same storyline every time... and sorry, but not a single one is living up to the original Morgan/Miach story.
January 14, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to Dreamspinner. Aisling's continuing search to find a mercenary as her part of the quest to free her land of the usurper is finally fulfilled but she finds herself unable to importune Runach since she has discovered his true identity. Runach and Aisling flee to his Grandfather's Kingdom of Torr Dorrain for safety. Aisling discovers some new abilities as she converses with the trees of Torr Dorrain and even sings with them. Runach has his first encounter with jealousy and does not understand this strange emotion that seems to envelope him. I find it funny that everywhere Runach goes someone asks him, "You know what she is, don't you?"
Runach does not know & no one ever tells him. One of his B'tard Brothers sends him a note threatening his murder so his Grandfather and other cousins concoct a plan to get him out of Torr Dorain without mishap. He and Aisling visit the WitchWoman and then escape to the Dwarf King's refuge in Leige. The Dwarf King immediately asks Runach if he knows who & what Aislin is, which has me thoroughly engrossed in her secret unknown identity. While in the Dwarf King's private solar Aisling begins to spin a thread she see's under Runach's hand runes. The Dwarf King aids her as she spins all of the golden thread out and weaves a mantle which she places over Runach as the Dwarf King casts a spell enabling Runach to absorb the mantle which turns out to be Runach's magic. Voila! Runach has been bereft of magic for over 20 years and his magic is restored. His Ardor for Aisling increases. Once again both Aisling and Runach encounter dreams of running water and the sound of a river under the Dwarf king's fortress of stone.
I love this series!
Runach does not know & no one ever tells him. One of his B'tard Brothers sends him a note threatening his murder so his Grandfather and other cousins concoct a plan to get him out of Torr Dorain without mishap. He and Aisling visit the WitchWoman and then escape to the Dwarf King's refuge in Leige. The Dwarf King immediately asks Runach if he knows who & what Aislin is, which has me thoroughly engrossed in her secret unknown identity. While in the Dwarf King's private solar Aisling begins to spin a thread she see's under Runach's hand runes. The Dwarf King aids her as she spins all of the golden thread out and weaves a mantle which she places over Runach as the Dwarf King casts a spell enabling Runach to absorb the mantle which turns out to be Runach's magic. Voila! Runach has been bereft of magic for over 20 years and his magic is restored. His Ardor for Aisling increases. Once again both Aisling and Runach encounter dreams of running water and the sound of a river under the Dwarf king's fortress of stone.
I love this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2018
WHAAAAT happened in this book? I can't wait for #9, although I don't want the series to end. I've fallen in love with all the characters, and how intricately everything has fit together. Despite not passing the Bechtel test (although maybe Runach's grandma talks to Aisling about her country instead of just a boy, once), the leads are always strong feminists who don't let no man stop them, but also get a little weak in the knees after a good kiss. As one should.
July 11, 2023
This was a very fun continuation of the series. I do still find Aisling a little annoyingly naïve, and Runach joined her in that from time to time, but I really like Runach and Aisling grew on me over the course of the book. I went out and bought the next one and I'll probably finish it by the end of the year. The ongoing idea of 'the other one can't possibly be in love with me' went on for too long, but they seemed to get themselves together by the end.
January 11, 2014
Loved it!
We are now up to Book 8 in the Nine Kingdoms series. My review is below, but first, here's the list of books in the confusing and a bit of explanation regarding how they fit together leading up to where we're at right now:
Two Prelude short stories, found in anthologies with other authors:
The Queen in Winter ("A Whisper of Spring" When Symon, the first king of Neroche, woos and wins Iolaire)
To Weave a Web of Magic (The Tale of Two Swords where Mehar and Gilraehen fall in love)
Miach and Morgan's story is told in:
1 - Star of the Morning
2 - The Mage's Daughter
3 - Princess of the Sword
Ruith and Sarah's story (which OVERLAPS Miach and Morgan's story in the timeline) is told in:
4 - A Tapestry of Spells
5 - Spellweaver
6 - Gift of Magic
Rùnach and Aisling's story is being told in:
7 - Dreamspinner
8 - River of Dreams (this book)
9 - Planned for Jan '15
.~*^*~.,.~*^*~.,.~*^*~.
Both Dreamspinner and River of Dreams take place over a time period of only a few weeks. These few weeks begin after the final chapter in both of the first two trilogies, with the exception of the Epilogue in Princess of the Sword (which occurs quite a few months after the last chapter of that book).
And WOW. This book is exquisite! That's the best word I can find, and it falls so very short of this book!
Yes, this is the third Nine Kingdoms trilogy that centers around a prince who was hiding who he was and a woman who didn't know who she was or what she could do. It, like the others, is also a journey of discovery (happening amidst lots of journeys all over the 9 kingdoms.) But there the similarities end. The progress of the romance is different, the characters are different, and even the magics are different. In fact, once more, the new book has expanded the world of the 9 Kingdoms and its beauty and possibilities even more!
It's not the plot that makes me say "Wow" about the book, though. Plot fanatics might consider the plot to simplistic. Maybe. I don't know... and I don't care. It's the exquisite beauty and word-crafting and imagery of this book that makes a mere plot seem commonplace. Somehow, the words on the page spin images in my mind that defy description and make me smile and feel carried away to a land of magic, even as I remember them!
So what's the story about?
By the time this book opens, Aisling knows that Rùnach was an elvin prince who had his magic stolen by his evil father years before. She and Rùnach have also discovered that she has some pretty amazing abilities, though neither of them understand what she can do, how she can do it, or why she can do it. Rùnach is constantly asking her, "Who ARE you?" And Aisling's answer is always "no one," for she saw her parents only weeks ago... their actions proved that they were no one of consequence.
Aisling is a remarkable character. She is beginning to believe that most of what she was told growing up was a lie. Elves actually do exist--and she's falling in love with one. Magic does exist after all--and she is somehow able to do inexplicable things with it. Dragons do exist--at least where shapechanging and magic is concerned. So maybe the curses hanging over her head aren't what she thought either. She is very, very sweet, unfailingly polite, yet unafraid to follow her instincts when they urge her to take the magic threads surrounding her and.... but no. I will not spoil some of the most beautiful and amazing word-crafting I've ever had the pleasure of enjoying.
Rùnach is... wow. How to describe this man who was the envy of his brothers for his skill with magic and his skill with the sword... before magic was taken and his hands were ruined of course. I was so pleased to find that his skill with magic fit so perfectly with the hints given in the other two trilogies. Somehow he still carries that skill, even though he can't use it, having no magic anymore. His character portrayal was so very much the combination of an elvin prince of rare skill, power, and high standing and a cripple affected by 20 years of hiding and affliction--a tricky combination.
The story doesn't end there, of course. Rùnach and Aisling together were already something quite special in the beginning and through the first half of the book. But then things begin to unfold in earnest, and the story becomes even more beautiful. They know they are in love, and we finally witness their first kisses. (They are, of course, beautiful and pure, like Lynn Kurland's couples enjoy.) But you are missing something amazing if you haven't read through to Chapter 17 yet!
But their quest is getting more dangerous and uncertain. Soilléir is involved (as much as he'll allow himself to be, of course, which isn't much, though we learn a bit more about him). The book ends with not-quite-a-cliffhanger. It's rather a fitting resting place before the next book (which we have to wait a whole year for) launches Rùnach and Aisling into their fight to save the world and the dreams woven through it.
This is definitely going to be one of those books that I read and re-read and read yet again!
We are now up to Book 8 in the Nine Kingdoms series. My review is below, but first, here's the list of books in the confusing and a bit of explanation regarding how they fit together leading up to where we're at right now:
Two Prelude short stories, found in anthologies with other authors:
The Queen in Winter ("A Whisper of Spring" When Symon, the first king of Neroche, woos and wins Iolaire)
To Weave a Web of Magic (The Tale of Two Swords where Mehar and Gilraehen fall in love)
Miach and Morgan's story is told in:
1 - Star of the Morning
2 - The Mage's Daughter
3 - Princess of the Sword
Ruith and Sarah's story (which OVERLAPS Miach and Morgan's story in the timeline) is told in:
4 - A Tapestry of Spells
5 - Spellweaver
6 - Gift of Magic
Rùnach and Aisling's story is being told in:
7 - Dreamspinner
8 - River of Dreams (this book)
9 - Planned for Jan '15
.~*^*~.,.~*^*~.,.~*^*~.
Both Dreamspinner and River of Dreams take place over a time period of only a few weeks. These few weeks begin after the final chapter in both of the first two trilogies, with the exception of the Epilogue in Princess of the Sword (which occurs quite a few months after the last chapter of that book).
And WOW. This book is exquisite! That's the best word I can find, and it falls so very short of this book!
Yes, this is the third Nine Kingdoms trilogy that centers around a prince who was hiding who he was and a woman who didn't know who she was or what she could do. It, like the others, is also a journey of discovery (happening amidst lots of journeys all over the 9 kingdoms.) But there the similarities end. The progress of the romance is different, the characters are different, and even the magics are different. In fact, once more, the new book has expanded the world of the 9 Kingdoms and its beauty and possibilities even more!
It's not the plot that makes me say "Wow" about the book, though. Plot fanatics might consider the plot to simplistic. Maybe. I don't know... and I don't care. It's the exquisite beauty and word-crafting and imagery of this book that makes a mere plot seem commonplace. Somehow, the words on the page spin images in my mind that defy description and make me smile and feel carried away to a land of magic, even as I remember them!
So what's the story about?
By the time this book opens, Aisling knows that Rùnach was an elvin prince who had his magic stolen by his evil father years before. She and Rùnach have also discovered that she has some pretty amazing abilities, though neither of them understand what she can do, how she can do it, or why she can do it. Rùnach is constantly asking her, "Who ARE you?" And Aisling's answer is always "no one," for she saw her parents only weeks ago... their actions proved that they were no one of consequence.
Aisling is a remarkable character. She is beginning to believe that most of what she was told growing up was a lie. Elves actually do exist--and she's falling in love with one. Magic does exist after all--and she is somehow able to do inexplicable things with it. Dragons do exist--at least where shapechanging and magic is concerned. So maybe the curses hanging over her head aren't what she thought either. She is very, very sweet, unfailingly polite, yet unafraid to follow her instincts when they urge her to take the magic threads surrounding her and.... but no. I will not spoil some of the most beautiful and amazing word-crafting I've ever had the pleasure of enjoying.
Rùnach is... wow. How to describe this man who was the envy of his brothers for his skill with magic and his skill with the sword... before magic was taken and his hands were ruined of course. I was so pleased to find that his skill with magic fit so perfectly with the hints given in the other two trilogies. Somehow he still carries that skill, even though he can't use it, having no magic anymore. His character portrayal was so very much the combination of an elvin prince of rare skill, power, and high standing and a cripple affected by 20 years of hiding and affliction--a tricky combination.
The story doesn't end there, of course. Rùnach and Aisling together were already something quite special in the beginning and through the first half of the book. But then things begin to unfold in earnest, and the story becomes even more beautiful. They know they are in love, and we finally witness their first kisses. (They are, of course, beautiful and pure, like Lynn Kurland's couples enjoy.) But you are missing something amazing if you haven't read through to Chapter 17 yet!
But their quest is getting more dangerous and uncertain. Soilléir is involved (as much as he'll allow himself to be, of course, which isn't much, though we learn a bit more about him). The book ends with not-quite-a-cliffhanger. It's rather a fitting resting place before the next book (which we have to wait a whole year for) launches Rùnach and Aisling into their fight to save the world and the dreams woven through it.
This is definitely going to be one of those books that I read and re-read and read yet again!
December 13, 2018
I love this series
I Love all of Lynn Kurland's books but this series grabbed me from the beginning. I am waiting patiently (sort of) for book 12 and however many more she writes
I Love all of Lynn Kurland's books but this series grabbed me from the beginning. I am waiting patiently (sort of) for book 12 and however many more she writes
May 5, 2019
Love this series - so peaceful and the ending was peaceful and beautiful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2023
A sweet clean fantasy romance. A good taking a break book.
November 11, 2017
kurland's nine kingdoms novels continue with Aisling and her quest for a mercenary to help her on her mysterious quest to save her land. overall, i thoroughly enjoyed this book (as i pretty much do any of kurland's novels), however there were a few issues. once again, the continued denial of the obvious (she just *can't* have magic!), as well as the self-deprecating internal dialogue of why the one can't possibly be attracted to the other, and vice versa. outside of this typical repetition that happens frequently in her books, the story was entertaining and enjoyable. definitely looking forward to reading the conclusions.
January 27, 2014
Author Lynn Kurland continues her Nine Kingdoms series with her latest book, River of Dreams. This is a fantasy novel that will draw readers in with Kurland's phenomenal powers of description and superb world building skills. A mix of both romance and magic, this is a tale of woman trying desperately to save her kingdom and an elven prince who joins her quest. It is a journey of self-discovery and most of the weaving and welding of magic in a magical land.
A great addition to the series!
What I liked:
This was my first experience reading a Lynn Kurland novel. Though I had seen the Nine Kingdom series around I had never had the opportunity to review one of the novels before. I was excited, being a fan of high fantasy in general and magic in the extreme. I certainly was not disappointed. Kurland has gift for description that doesn't often come along. She can put words together that seem to flow like poetry. This book is worth reading just based on that. If you love words and how the can bring to life scenes that you may never have seen before, this book is amazing. Kurland is a skilled wordsmith.
Another things that really stands out about River is Dreams is the world building. Fantasy and Science Fiction writers have either a challenge or a curse when it comes to dreaming up and writing about worlds that the reader has never heard of or that don't exist. They can either be horrible at it or very good at, as Kurland is. I haven't read the other books in the series, but it obvious from reading this one that Kurland has created a world based on magic and magical principles. It doesn't work like our world and wasn't meant to. The people and even the objects don't operate as most readers would expect them to and that can be frustrating if you are not a fantasy enthusiast. But I think Kurland did a fantastic job of bringing Aisling and Runach's world to life.
Aisling was an interesting character. She was very strong and courageous, but she had a lot of self-doubt. She was vulnerable where Runach was concerned. She didn't feel worthy or important enough to be with him and that give their relationship the needed conflict the story hinged on. What I thought was interesting was that she did not have a concept of how she was able to do what she did, how she got her abilities or why she had them. That was another angle of the story that was not only captivating but riveting. Kurland character development in Aisling's case was circumspect but very clever.
Runach was a wonderful hero. He had been stripped of his magic but it is easy to tell that he had a commanding presence, a regal bearing that was unmistakable. He is prince in hiding, who wants nothing more than to be left alone as a simple swordsman, but he is drawn to Aisling and her quest to save her country. I thought he was sensitive and thoughtful in regard to her and he knew she was special even if she didn't know it herself.
Fantasy titles are generally light on the romance, but this book had that romantic element that is often times missing. I liked the relationship between Aisling and Runach and thought it developed at a steady pace and did not seem rushed or too vague. Kurland was able to tell the story of their love without a lot of "colorful metaphors" (strong language), or vulgarity. I really appreciated that and I think readers will as well. These two characters were obviously made for each other, though it took them awhile to get there.
This book was in itself a tale of self-discovery for the main characters. I liked Kurland's take on finding one's place in the world and how we all play a part in how things turn out. We have a destiny. That was cool.
What I didn't like:
I think it took a bit too long for Aisling to discover exactly who she was. Not only for the other characters to know but for herself. I'm not always fond of a character who is self-deprecating or down on themselves. But Kuland does turn that around and brings the character full circle to the point that she sees her worth and value, so in the end it's not really a criticism.
Bottom Line:
Fantasy fans you don't want to miss this one. Romance readers, this is an example of a good clean romance that is set in a magical world. Lovers of words and descriptions, this novel is truly magical.
A great addition to the series!
What I liked:
This was my first experience reading a Lynn Kurland novel. Though I had seen the Nine Kingdom series around I had never had the opportunity to review one of the novels before. I was excited, being a fan of high fantasy in general and magic in the extreme. I certainly was not disappointed. Kurland has gift for description that doesn't often come along. She can put words together that seem to flow like poetry. This book is worth reading just based on that. If you love words and how the can bring to life scenes that you may never have seen before, this book is amazing. Kurland is a skilled wordsmith.
Another things that really stands out about River is Dreams is the world building. Fantasy and Science Fiction writers have either a challenge or a curse when it comes to dreaming up and writing about worlds that the reader has never heard of or that don't exist. They can either be horrible at it or very good at, as Kurland is. I haven't read the other books in the series, but it obvious from reading this one that Kurland has created a world based on magic and magical principles. It doesn't work like our world and wasn't meant to. The people and even the objects don't operate as most readers would expect them to and that can be frustrating if you are not a fantasy enthusiast. But I think Kurland did a fantastic job of bringing Aisling and Runach's world to life.
Aisling was an interesting character. She was very strong and courageous, but she had a lot of self-doubt. She was vulnerable where Runach was concerned. She didn't feel worthy or important enough to be with him and that give their relationship the needed conflict the story hinged on. What I thought was interesting was that she did not have a concept of how she was able to do what she did, how she got her abilities or why she had them. That was another angle of the story that was not only captivating but riveting. Kurland character development in Aisling's case was circumspect but very clever.
Runach was a wonderful hero. He had been stripped of his magic but it is easy to tell that he had a commanding presence, a regal bearing that was unmistakable. He is prince in hiding, who wants nothing more than to be left alone as a simple swordsman, but he is drawn to Aisling and her quest to save her country. I thought he was sensitive and thoughtful in regard to her and he knew she was special even if she didn't know it herself.
Fantasy titles are generally light on the romance, but this book had that romantic element that is often times missing. I liked the relationship between Aisling and Runach and thought it developed at a steady pace and did not seem rushed or too vague. Kurland was able to tell the story of their love without a lot of "colorful metaphors" (strong language), or vulgarity. I really appreciated that and I think readers will as well. These two characters were obviously made for each other, though it took them awhile to get there.
This book was in itself a tale of self-discovery for the main characters. I liked Kurland's take on finding one's place in the world and how we all play a part in how things turn out. We have a destiny. That was cool.
What I didn't like:
I think it took a bit too long for Aisling to discover exactly who she was. Not only for the other characters to know but for herself. I'm not always fond of a character who is self-deprecating or down on themselves. But Kuland does turn that around and brings the character full circle to the point that she sees her worth and value, so in the end it's not really a criticism.
Bottom Line:
Fantasy fans you don't want to miss this one. Romance readers, this is an example of a good clean romance that is set in a magical world. Lovers of words and descriptions, this novel is truly magical.
February 23, 2014
If you are a fan of fantasy romance and you haven't read Lynn Kurland's Nine Kingdoms Series.. what are you waiting for? Lynn writes wonderful, rich, descriptive books with multi level characters. Her books have a lush sensual feel to them and do not rely on sex to sell them. These books could easily slip into the YA category (except they are about adults) and yet they are timeless. A great read for any age (well toddlers may not get it).
The Nine Kingdoms Series is a collection of three trilogies. The first two trilogies overlap and the third starts right where the second left off. Characters show up in all three trilogies but each one is unique unto itself. Each trilogy focuses around two characters and the quest they have been given.
River of Dreams is book 2 in the last trilogy (much as I would love to just keep reading about these fascinating characters). I can only hope that Ms Kurland changes her mind and decides that there are still plenty of stories to be told in the Nine Kingdoms. But this particular quest has been given to Aisling of Bruadair and Rùnach of Ceangail. A mage with no magic and a girl who thinks that elves and dwarves and mages and.. are all just stories. In book one Aisling escaped from indentured slavery (sold to the weavers guild by her parents) and Runach was determined to become a soldier. They met up at the home of the assassins guild and were "encouraged" to start this quest together. Their lives have changed and they are now discovering what they can do, together.
Aisling of Bruadair, was told if she had a limited time to complete her task. If she didn't complete it on time, she would die. Well she was told if she left the town she was enslaved in, she would die, if she didn't arrive at the meeting place on time, she would die. A nice theme going on here but Aisling hasn't died yet.. She left her town, she missed both deadlines and yet she lives. What exactly is going on? For a girl who believes that living legends are only myths Aisling has found herself right smack dab in the middle of a myth or two. Magic does exist and her true quest is to stop the people who are destroying it.
Runach of Ceangail is the second son of one of the Nine Kingdom's greatest evils. Stripped of his powers when his father needed more power, Runach has spent twenty years living as a cripple. But now his hands have been healed and his father has been destroyed. He has a chance at life. With no magic Runach has chosen to become a swordsman but while in training he discovers that life has something else planned for him.
In typical Kurland fashion, there is so much more to these characters than they believe. Even in their darkest moments these two find a way to triumph. One thing that they do learn is that while one evil has been destroyed another will always try to rise up and take it's place. For Runach, it's his bastard brothers. Rotten all the way to the core they emulate their father in his desires to rule the world but fortunately lack his power. Of course that doesn't stop them and Runach and Aisling remain threatened.
For Aisling, discovering that magic is real has been an awakening but not only is it real but she discovers her gift. Her ability to Spin Dreams.. She is a part of the very fabric of life and yet for so long was forced to deal with only the grays and tatters of life. Now she is discovering her powers.. or talent.. she also discovers that she has a responsibility to use them properly.
This book is a wonderfully woven tapestry from a fertile imagination. A true gift to us all.
Shauni
The Nine Kingdoms Series is a collection of three trilogies. The first two trilogies overlap and the third starts right where the second left off. Characters show up in all three trilogies but each one is unique unto itself. Each trilogy focuses around two characters and the quest they have been given.
River of Dreams is book 2 in the last trilogy (much as I would love to just keep reading about these fascinating characters). I can only hope that Ms Kurland changes her mind and decides that there are still plenty of stories to be told in the Nine Kingdoms. But this particular quest has been given to Aisling of Bruadair and Rùnach of Ceangail. A mage with no magic and a girl who thinks that elves and dwarves and mages and.. are all just stories. In book one Aisling escaped from indentured slavery (sold to the weavers guild by her parents) and Runach was determined to become a soldier. They met up at the home of the assassins guild and were "encouraged" to start this quest together. Their lives have changed and they are now discovering what they can do, together.
Aisling of Bruadair, was told if she had a limited time to complete her task. If she didn't complete it on time, she would die. Well she was told if she left the town she was enslaved in, she would die, if she didn't arrive at the meeting place on time, she would die. A nice theme going on here but Aisling hasn't died yet.. She left her town, she missed both deadlines and yet she lives. What exactly is going on? For a girl who believes that living legends are only myths Aisling has found herself right smack dab in the middle of a myth or two. Magic does exist and her true quest is to stop the people who are destroying it.
Runach of Ceangail is the second son of one of the Nine Kingdom's greatest evils. Stripped of his powers when his father needed more power, Runach has spent twenty years living as a cripple. But now his hands have been healed and his father has been destroyed. He has a chance at life. With no magic Runach has chosen to become a swordsman but while in training he discovers that life has something else planned for him.
In typical Kurland fashion, there is so much more to these characters than they believe. Even in their darkest moments these two find a way to triumph. One thing that they do learn is that while one evil has been destroyed another will always try to rise up and take it's place. For Runach, it's his bastard brothers. Rotten all the way to the core they emulate their father in his desires to rule the world but fortunately lack his power. Of course that doesn't stop them and Runach and Aisling remain threatened.
For Aisling, discovering that magic is real has been an awakening but not only is it real but she discovers her gift. Her ability to Spin Dreams.. She is a part of the very fabric of life and yet for so long was forced to deal with only the grays and tatters of life. Now she is discovering her powers.. or talent.. she also discovers that she has a responsibility to use them properly.
This book is a wonderfully woven tapestry from a fertile imagination. A true gift to us all.
Shauni
October 15, 2015
Review Originally Posted at Ramblings From This Chick
http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspo...
River of Dreams is the second book for Rùnach and Aisling, and the eighth book of the Nine Kingdom series. It begins with the two inside the library at Diarmailt with swords pointed at them. They are both trying to find answers to the mysteries that surround them. Unfortunately, they don’t get to spend too much time researching at the library because one of Rùnach’s bastard brothers arrives.
The pair ends up travelling from place to place looking for answers and running from evil mages. This pretty much sums up the entire book. Not much progresses with the plot because answers are not abundant. There weren’t a whole lot of exciting moments with this part of the trilogy. I can think of only three things in this book that made my adrenaline start pumping.
Aisling did get a lot more interesting mostly because she started developing a backbone. She has turned out to not be so delicate, though she does continue to faint a little too often. She’s also not willing to let herself fall for Rùnach since he is a prince and she just a simple weaver. She doesn’t think she is worthy of him. Oh how I wish she would just put her prejudice against herself aside!
I believe Rùnach would agree with me if he knew what Aisling was feeling. However, he somewhat starts to believe she just isn’t interested. He ends up discovering that he has fallen in love with her, regardless of her seeming lack of interest. He even decides to take up her quest because of this love. He ends up acting a little jealous and protective, which I always find flattering and endearing for men. He continues to be charming and chivalrous as ever.
The book did end on an exciting note, so I am eager to continue the adventure. I know some of the most nail biting scenes are soon to come. The romance again is PG, which I love! If the story wasn’t so slow, I probably would have given it a higher rating, but it did drag a little too much for my taste.
***********************************************************************
Original Rating 5 Stars
Oh, how I love this series. Overall, these books are fantastic in that they have everything I love. There is magic in a fantasy type world, There are battles and excitement. Then there is the love story. There is also a bit of mystery.
Runach was the perfect hero as he had been before in Dreamspinner. (However, he could never amount up to Miach for me.) Some amazing things happen to him in this book, but I have to say I wasn't surprised. I was expecting those things to happen in this book or the next.
Aisling frustrated me a little bit. She tends to push aside the hard things in her life to deal with at a later time. She also takes too much time to figure things out. But she is quite the curious and sweet girl. I just wish she wasn't so timid about her life.
I must say that I'm super bummed that I have to wait almost an entire year to read the final book to this trilogy. That's the problem with catching up to the author. Until then!
http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspo...
River of Dreams is the second book for Rùnach and Aisling, and the eighth book of the Nine Kingdom series. It begins with the two inside the library at Diarmailt with swords pointed at them. They are both trying to find answers to the mysteries that surround them. Unfortunately, they don’t get to spend too much time researching at the library because one of Rùnach’s bastard brothers arrives.
The pair ends up travelling from place to place looking for answers and running from evil mages. This pretty much sums up the entire book. Not much progresses with the plot because answers are not abundant. There weren’t a whole lot of exciting moments with this part of the trilogy. I can think of only three things in this book that made my adrenaline start pumping.
Aisling did get a lot more interesting mostly because she started developing a backbone. She has turned out to not be so delicate, though she does continue to faint a little too often. She’s also not willing to let herself fall for Rùnach since he is a prince and she just a simple weaver. She doesn’t think she is worthy of him. Oh how I wish she would just put her prejudice against herself aside!
I believe Rùnach would agree with me if he knew what Aisling was feeling. However, he somewhat starts to believe she just isn’t interested. He ends up discovering that he has fallen in love with her, regardless of her seeming lack of interest. He even decides to take up her quest because of this love. He ends up acting a little jealous and protective, which I always find flattering and endearing for men. He continues to be charming and chivalrous as ever.
The book did end on an exciting note, so I am eager to continue the adventure. I know some of the most nail biting scenes are soon to come. The romance again is PG, which I love! If the story wasn’t so slow, I probably would have given it a higher rating, but it did drag a little too much for my taste.
***********************************************************************
Original Rating 5 Stars
Oh, how I love this series. Overall, these books are fantastic in that they have everything I love. There is magic in a fantasy type world, There are battles and excitement. Then there is the love story. There is also a bit of mystery.
Runach was the perfect hero as he had been before in Dreamspinner. (However, he could never amount up to Miach for me.) Some amazing things happen to him in this book, but I have to say I wasn't surprised. I was expecting those things to happen in this book or the next.
Aisling frustrated me a little bit. She tends to push aside the hard things in her life to deal with at a later time. She also takes too much time to figure things out. But she is quite the curious and sweet girl. I just wish she wasn't so timid about her life.
I must say that I'm super bummed that I have to wait almost an entire year to read the final book to this trilogy. That's the problem with catching up to the author. Until then!
January 10, 2014
Title: River of Dreams
Series: A Novel of the Nine Kingdoms Book #8
Author: Lynn Kurland
Genre: Fantasy/Romance, Sci-Fi
Blurb: Aisling of Bruadair is frantic to find both the truth about her future and a mercenary to save her country. When an offer of aid comes from an unexpected direction, she is relieved her quest is almost complete. But she soon realizes her task is far from over . . . and will include perils she never dreamed she would ever face.
Rùnach of Ceangail has offered to help Aisling with her quest, then he fully intends to take up his life as a simple swordsman far from magic and evil mages. Unfortunately, a chance finding of a book of indecipherable spells tells him that an ordinary life is never going to be his--especially when he realizes that the book he has in his hands belongs to a black mage who will stop at nothing to have it back.
With time running out, Rùnach and Aisling must solve what seem to be unrelated mysteries before others find those answers first and plunge the Nine Kingdoms into a darkness it will never recover from . . .
Thoughts: To be honest, when I was given this book to read in exchange for an honest review I was a bit leery. I had never read anything by the author before, never heard of the series, and when I read the blurb my first thought was, "This is not really what I usually read". While I like fantasy and sci-fi, I usually prefer a lot more romance in it than in this book. I reminded myself of the old adage about not judging a book by its cover - and finally forced myself to read it!
I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised! The book deserved an 'A' just on the creativity and descriptions of the world alone. Kurland manages to deliver a novel - a series, really - that rivals that of The Lord Of The Rings. Between the Kingdoms and their kings, the quests and amazingly detailed journeys, the elves and other magical beings -this book is an amazing delve into the fantasy genre.
I was surprised by how well the book stood by itself outside of the series. I had no trouble keeping up with the story and I didn't feel any nagging issues about having missed out on the previous titles. The world drew me in right away, and both Runach and Aisling were captivating characters. I couldn't wait to see how their journey - and their romance - would play out. With Runach, an elfin prince who has lost his magic willing to take up his sword for the ethereal Aisling - who is more a mystery than anything else, able to 'spin' the very elements from the world around them, you can't help but get caught up on their quest to save her country. It is nothing short of enchanting - from beginning to end. Followers of Kurland's will be pleased to read more about the this fascinating world of the Nine Kingdoms and the development of the relationship between Runach and Aisling - and new reader's might be pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoy this fascinating adventure. A must read for avid fantasy readers - or anyone looking to broaden the scope of their reading and might be up for something a little different!
Rate: A
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
Series: A Novel of the Nine Kingdoms Book #8
Author: Lynn Kurland
Genre: Fantasy/Romance, Sci-Fi
Blurb: Aisling of Bruadair is frantic to find both the truth about her future and a mercenary to save her country. When an offer of aid comes from an unexpected direction, she is relieved her quest is almost complete. But she soon realizes her task is far from over . . . and will include perils she never dreamed she would ever face.
Rùnach of Ceangail has offered to help Aisling with her quest, then he fully intends to take up his life as a simple swordsman far from magic and evil mages. Unfortunately, a chance finding of a book of indecipherable spells tells him that an ordinary life is never going to be his--especially when he realizes that the book he has in his hands belongs to a black mage who will stop at nothing to have it back.
With time running out, Rùnach and Aisling must solve what seem to be unrelated mysteries before others find those answers first and plunge the Nine Kingdoms into a darkness it will never recover from . . .
Thoughts: To be honest, when I was given this book to read in exchange for an honest review I was a bit leery. I had never read anything by the author before, never heard of the series, and when I read the blurb my first thought was, "This is not really what I usually read". While I like fantasy and sci-fi, I usually prefer a lot more romance in it than in this book. I reminded myself of the old adage about not judging a book by its cover - and finally forced myself to read it!
I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised! The book deserved an 'A' just on the creativity and descriptions of the world alone. Kurland manages to deliver a novel - a series, really - that rivals that of The Lord Of The Rings. Between the Kingdoms and their kings, the quests and amazingly detailed journeys, the elves and other magical beings -this book is an amazing delve into the fantasy genre.
I was surprised by how well the book stood by itself outside of the series. I had no trouble keeping up with the story and I didn't feel any nagging issues about having missed out on the previous titles. The world drew me in right away, and both Runach and Aisling were captivating characters. I couldn't wait to see how their journey - and their romance - would play out. With Runach, an elfin prince who has lost his magic willing to take up his sword for the ethereal Aisling - who is more a mystery than anything else, able to 'spin' the very elements from the world around them, you can't help but get caught up on their quest to save her country. It is nothing short of enchanting - from beginning to end. Followers of Kurland's will be pleased to read more about the this fascinating world of the Nine Kingdoms and the development of the relationship between Runach and Aisling - and new reader's might be pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoy this fascinating adventure. A must read for avid fantasy readers - or anyone looking to broaden the scope of their reading and might be up for something a little different!
Rate: A
Review by: Sarah
http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
December 20, 2013
The Nine Kingdoms
Tasked by her countrymen to find a warrior to save her land, Aisling of Bruadair has traveled many a weary, magical, and sometimes terrifying mile. She has her mercenary, the elven Prince Runach of Ceangail, although his magic was stripped by his evil mage father. Still, Aisling wants to know why she, a simple weaver, was chosen for this quest? Finally convinced that magic, mages, elves, and shape-shifters exist, still Aisling is unaware of the mystical power she keeps discovering within herself.
Runach is smitten with the brave, naïve weaver from Bruadair. He, too, wonders why she was chosen for this dangerous task, and what it is about her that he cannot put a finger on. Runach has his own problem, though. His sire fathered a handful of illegitimate sons before he married Runach’s mother, and those sons are after Runach for a book he suddenly has in his possession. It’s a book of spells that he can’t use without the magic he was born with, and he knows one thing – he doesn’t want his evil half-brothers to ever know what lies within the pages.
Time is of the essence for Aisling. She was given a deadline to return to Bruadair with the warrior who must slay the man who usurped the throne. Aisling has been told that if she fails, she will die. But so many of the threats told to her have not come about, that she is beginning to wonder just what the quest is all about? What do her dreams mean and why do they effect all around her?
RIVER OF DREAMS is the second book of the trilogy about Aisling and Runach. From the first page to the revelations at the end, it is non-stop adventure, magic, and budding romance. Aisling is slowing coming to terms with her feelings for the handsome elf she has traveled with, but why would an elven prince be interested in a simple weaver? Even Runach doesn’t know that answer, but he does know he truly loves the mysterious lass.
The Nine Kingdoms series continues with yet another amazing and magical tale from the pen of Lynn Kurland. While all of the trilogies have similar paths, each one introduces us to a set of characters that are memorable, likable, and some whom readers will want to see justice done. Each book is exquisitely written, impeccably detailed, and filled with plenty of excitement and adventure. The descriptions of some of the scenes will put readers smack in the middle of them, gasping for breath. I especially enjoy the perverted sense of humor the shape-shifting horse, Iteach, has as he surprises Runach and Aisling with various disguises.
I highly recommend readers start the trilogy with DREAMSPINNER. All of the Nine Kingdom books are connected by the offspring of the dark mage, Gair, and they all make brief appearances, either in person or reference, in this story.
Tasked by her countrymen to find a warrior to save her land, Aisling of Bruadair has traveled many a weary, magical, and sometimes terrifying mile. She has her mercenary, the elven Prince Runach of Ceangail, although his magic was stripped by his evil mage father. Still, Aisling wants to know why she, a simple weaver, was chosen for this quest? Finally convinced that magic, mages, elves, and shape-shifters exist, still Aisling is unaware of the mystical power she keeps discovering within herself.
Runach is smitten with the brave, naïve weaver from Bruadair. He, too, wonders why she was chosen for this dangerous task, and what it is about her that he cannot put a finger on. Runach has his own problem, though. His sire fathered a handful of illegitimate sons before he married Runach’s mother, and those sons are after Runach for a book he suddenly has in his possession. It’s a book of spells that he can’t use without the magic he was born with, and he knows one thing – he doesn’t want his evil half-brothers to ever know what lies within the pages.
Time is of the essence for Aisling. She was given a deadline to return to Bruadair with the warrior who must slay the man who usurped the throne. Aisling has been told that if she fails, she will die. But so many of the threats told to her have not come about, that she is beginning to wonder just what the quest is all about? What do her dreams mean and why do they effect all around her?
RIVER OF DREAMS is the second book of the trilogy about Aisling and Runach. From the first page to the revelations at the end, it is non-stop adventure, magic, and budding romance. Aisling is slowing coming to terms with her feelings for the handsome elf she has traveled with, but why would an elven prince be interested in a simple weaver? Even Runach doesn’t know that answer, but he does know he truly loves the mysterious lass.
The Nine Kingdoms series continues with yet another amazing and magical tale from the pen of Lynn Kurland. While all of the trilogies have similar paths, each one introduces us to a set of characters that are memorable, likable, and some whom readers will want to see justice done. Each book is exquisitely written, impeccably detailed, and filled with plenty of excitement and adventure. The descriptions of some of the scenes will put readers smack in the middle of them, gasping for breath. I especially enjoy the perverted sense of humor the shape-shifting horse, Iteach, has as he surprises Runach and Aisling with various disguises.
I highly recommend readers start the trilogy with DREAMSPINNER. All of the Nine Kingdom books are connected by the offspring of the dark mage, Gair, and they all make brief appearances, either in person or reference, in this story.
January 15, 2015
First read January 2014
Second read January 2015
I first read this book a year ago right in the middle of my move. I only made a few comments, not having time to write a review. I just re-read it as I have the newly released next book in the series in hand. I love this fun fantasy series! it takes place in a fantasy world and is filled with magic, elves, dwarves, shape shifting horses, evil of course, and heroes and heroines. There is humor in the conversations and a lightness about these stories in spite of the good against evil that exists in most books and especially those of adventure. This is book#8 of the series, and is the story of Runach, and elven prince who has had his magic taken from him and Aisling, a simple weaver with no magic - but who can spin fire and water and air - and dreams. This series is written with three books about a couple and their adventures followed by three books about another related couple in the same time period or shortly after. This is the second book of Runach and Aisling's story.
This pair are on a quest. Aisling is from a country called Bruadair which is secluded and little is known about it. It is a dark and dangerous place that Aisling escaped from in book #7. The two books I have read are about their adventure which includes a beautiful stay in an Elven keep with trees and flowers that talk and spin tales and songs. I loved the clever conversations between this young woman who is in awe of what she has dicovered as she thought elves and magic were the stuff of books and myths.
I also love Iteach, Runach's horse. Iteach is a shape shifter and appears to be smarter than the average person. He turns into a dragon when necessary, can carry the pair swiftly away on the wind from danger, and when they are safe and Aisling is in a beautiful room at night who would appear but a purring cat, another of Iteach's favorite forms. Runach is quite angry with him at one point when they come close to drowning and the cat is clinging to his back. He is unsure why the horse can not shift into a fish at times like that!
The magic in this book and the others is beautifully described and complex, but it makes sense as much as magic can to us mortals. I highly recommend these books.
I am ready to dig into the next book so will leave this one. If you like fantasy that is light and fun although not without it's battles and tense moments, this is a great series. It's a romance but it is clean.
Second read January 2015
I first read this book a year ago right in the middle of my move. I only made a few comments, not having time to write a review. I just re-read it as I have the newly released next book in the series in hand. I love this fun fantasy series! it takes place in a fantasy world and is filled with magic, elves, dwarves, shape shifting horses, evil of course, and heroes and heroines. There is humor in the conversations and a lightness about these stories in spite of the good against evil that exists in most books and especially those of adventure. This is book#8 of the series, and is the story of Runach, and elven prince who has had his magic taken from him and Aisling, a simple weaver with no magic - but who can spin fire and water and air - and dreams. This series is written with three books about a couple and their adventures followed by three books about another related couple in the same time period or shortly after. This is the second book of Runach and Aisling's story.
This pair are on a quest. Aisling is from a country called Bruadair which is secluded and little is known about it. It is a dark and dangerous place that Aisling escaped from in book #7. The two books I have read are about their adventure which includes a beautiful stay in an Elven keep with trees and flowers that talk and spin tales and songs. I loved the clever conversations between this young woman who is in awe of what she has dicovered as she thought elves and magic were the stuff of books and myths.
I also love Iteach, Runach's horse. Iteach is a shape shifter and appears to be smarter than the average person. He turns into a dragon when necessary, can carry the pair swiftly away on the wind from danger, and when they are safe and Aisling is in a beautiful room at night who would appear but a purring cat, another of Iteach's favorite forms. Runach is quite angry with him at one point when they come close to drowning and the cat is clinging to his back. He is unsure why the horse can not shift into a fish at times like that!
The magic in this book and the others is beautifully described and complex, but it makes sense as much as magic can to us mortals. I highly recommend these books.
I am ready to dig into the next book so will leave this one. If you like fantasy that is light and fun although not without it's battles and tense moments, this is a great series. It's a romance but it is clean.
January 14, 2014
River of Dreams by Lynn Kurland is the second book in her third trilogy, so basically it's the 8th book in this world. I have loved reading all the books within this series, and I will continue to read books within this series on principle, but this book feels like it's missing a certain something.
Pros: The characters had flaws, Aisling and Runach were both afraid to face their destinies (ha ha ha, face, when you read the book you'll get it.) The writing flowed very well. The descriptions of magic and their shape-shifting horse, Iteach, were thoroughly enjoyable. The building of Aisling and Runach's relationship was well done, and seemed pretty natural.
Mehs: The description of things was good at times, but seemed a little lacking at others. The lack of description really happened when the characters were in the midst of a battle or hard travel which is understandable because you don't want to bog readers down in an exciting scene.
Cons: There was hardly any action. The whole novel ran at a much slower pace than some of Ms. Kurland's other books in this series. I also felt like the heroes didn't get to "save the day".
I really love this entire series. It's magical, it's not dark fantasy by any means, but neither is it just a romance. There is political intrigue, battles using magic and/or swords, and evil that must be defeated. The heroes are always gentlemen and the heroines are always ladies. These are books you can always read (in my opinion at least).
Pros: The characters had flaws, Aisling and Runach were both afraid to face their destinies (ha ha ha, face, when you read the book you'll get it.) The writing flowed very well. The descriptions of magic and their shape-shifting horse, Iteach, were thoroughly enjoyable. The building of Aisling and Runach's relationship was well done, and seemed pretty natural.
Mehs: The description of things was good at times, but seemed a little lacking at others. The lack of description really happened when the characters were in the midst of a battle or hard travel which is understandable because you don't want to bog readers down in an exciting scene.
Cons: There was hardly any action. The whole novel ran at a much slower pace than some of Ms. Kurland's other books in this series. I also felt like the heroes didn't get to "save the day".
I really love this entire series. It's magical, it's not dark fantasy by any means, but neither is it just a romance. There is political intrigue, battles using magic and/or swords, and evil that must be defeated. The heroes are always gentlemen and the heroines are always ladies. These are books you can always read (in my opinion at least).
January 11, 2014
Having waited for this book for some time I intended to sit down and burn through it but just a few pages in I was reminded why I love this series so much. Lynn Kurland's world building and character development is so exquisit that one shouldn't rush a reading or else you miss many small details. I have yet to read any in this series that did not engage my sesnses fully and River of Dreams is no exception.
Aisling and Runach are continuing their journey and along the way we encounter many famaliar names. Both are broken and shackled in their own way and yet they continue to push forward together. I have always enjoyed how love in the nine kingdoms doesn't happen swiftly,or easily, and yet it is all encompassing. Runach is quite certain he is in love with Aisling well before Aisling can admit to herself that she loves him just as much. Runach considers himself a man with dreams long ago lost and is resigned to his fate. He hopes that he can provide Aisling with simple life once he can help her with her quest. In truth Aisling is so much more than either can conceive and nothing about where they have been or will go is simple.
I have no complaints about this story save one...I now am forced to wait for the next one to be released!
Aisling and Runach are continuing their journey and along the way we encounter many famaliar names. Both are broken and shackled in their own way and yet they continue to push forward together. I have always enjoyed how love in the nine kingdoms doesn't happen swiftly,or easily, and yet it is all encompassing. Runach is quite certain he is in love with Aisling well before Aisling can admit to herself that she loves him just as much. Runach considers himself a man with dreams long ago lost and is resigned to his fate. He hopes that he can provide Aisling with simple life once he can help her with her quest. In truth Aisling is so much more than either can conceive and nothing about where they have been or will go is simple.
I have no complaints about this story save one...I now am forced to wait for the next one to be released!
November 16, 2022
I was not sure about Runach going into this series but River of Dreams sold him for me. He is probably now my second favorite guy (behind Miach of course). I just really enjoyed this entry- we got some solid info about Aisling, we got to meet the Witchwoman of Fas (who is delightful), and spend a little time with Sollier (always makes me happy). For a middle book it moved the plot along accordingly, set up our expectations for the next one, and made the Nine Kingdoms that much bigger. Obviously I think you should read all the books prior to fill in the blanks, but I suppose each trilogy can stand on its own. It remains a solid fantasy with hints of romance and one that I find myself rereading ever so often (helps because we only get a new release every January). Is it something new and exciting? No- but it does not have to be. There is something very comforting about this series. I love the long histories, the characters, and that magic is so very much a part of this world. It is like a warm blanket, and one I thoroughly enjoy.
December 7, 2014
This is the second book of Aslings story but the 8th book in the Nine Kingdoms series. Lynn Kurland has a very distinct way of writing, lots of details involving people and the same characters in her books. It is impossible to jump into a middle of a series and understand anything that is going on. So a lot gets forgotten over a year of waiting for the next book and this is a huge source of frustration for me. I felt like I had to get to know these two all over again. But I did enjoy the journey and I love reading these stories and this world is one of my favorites! I just wish every male character and female character were a little different. I feel like the story changes but the characters are just cookie cutter copies. I guess it's a good thing I like the cookie or I would have stopped reading these long ago, it also helps to space the books out and not read them all together so this is a little less obvious but then you forget everything:/. The first three are my favorite and if you are thinking about reading these books enjoy those! Very clean, fantasy romance.
Want to read
August 30, 2016I'm still reading this book at the moment. I love it, but the constant avoidance. Aisling doesn't want to know this. Aisling doesn't want to know that. She doesn't want to face knowing anything. Rinach is a lot the same. I understand they are torn about what to do over and over about many things. I'd want to know. Show me the book. Teach me. It's scary so they hesitate but they keep avoiding everything over and over. They'll never know or so anything at this rate...lol..I am enjoying the adventure though. I love the magic. I wish someone would tell Runach what she is. Everyone knows a lot but they all keep it to themselves. I know they want these two to figure it out for themselves, but they seem to scared to face learning and trying. I'm glad Aisling is starting to use her magic a bit more.
June 10, 2016
I did not initially write a review of River of Dreams but it has stayed in such a warm, safe place in my heart (as with every book thus far in the Nine Kingdoms) that I am now almost afraid to begin the last book of the series, Dreamer's Daughter, and thus reach the end. Ms Kurland's writing has been described as unique and lyrical and poetic and, without a doubt, it truly is. The sweetness of the love, the beauty of the world (despite the ever opposing evil), and the depth of her characters leaves a treasured ache when a story concludes and you have to leave. Thank you, Lynn Kurland, for the beauty of your soul to provide us with such offerings. May you continue to dream and thereby bless us all.
May 16, 2014
Continuing the story of Runach and Aisling. As another reviewer said, it gets a bit old that Runach repeatedly says that Aisling doesn't have magic, when obviously she has some sort of magic that is just different from what Runach is used to.
I liked the time they spent in Sile's kingdom. It was interesting to learn more about Runach's mother's family.
Interesting concept of a river flowing under the land carrying magic both good and evil.
I really wish someone would just take care of the Gair's natural sons, so that they would stop causing problems.
Now to wait for at least 8 more months for the conclusion to this story. It does seem like the author drags out the story lines to make trilogies of each siblings story. First, Morgan, Then, Ruith and now Runach.
I liked the time they spent in Sile's kingdom. It was interesting to learn more about Runach's mother's family.
Interesting concept of a river flowing under the land carrying magic both good and evil.
I really wish someone would just take care of the Gair's natural sons, so that they would stop causing problems.
Now to wait for at least 8 more months for the conclusion to this story. It does seem like the author drags out the story lines to make trilogies of each siblings story. First, Morgan, Then, Ruith and now Runach.
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