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Sigils of the Giver
The Fireglass Duology Part I
Everyone knows there are rules on Capelo Island:
Don't ask questions.
Never leave the island.
Obey the will of the Giver.
Since the death of her father, Lera hasn't obeyed a single one, and nothing bad has happened…so far. Lera tries to convince her sister, Niena, it will be fine. After all, the Giver isn't real, right?
Then Niena disappears.
Lera will do anything to find her sister, even playing a role in the culture she despises. But, under all the layers of deception, the truth might be darker than even she bargained for.
As they say, nobody survives outside the protection of the Giver.
Everyone knows there are rules on Capelo Island:
Don't ask questions.
Never leave the island.
Obey the will of the Giver.
Since the death of her father, Lera hasn't obeyed a single one, and nothing bad has happened…so far. Lera tries to convince her sister, Niena, it will be fine. After all, the Giver isn't real, right?
Then Niena disappears.
Lera will do anything to find her sister, even playing a role in the culture she despises. But, under all the layers of deception, the truth might be darker than even she bargained for.
As they say, nobody survives outside the protection of the Giver.
- GenresFantasy
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2023
2 people are currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
K. Michele Moseley
4 books52 followersK. Michele Moseley found her love for story telling on a Tuesday at 10 AM in the third grade. Though she struggled with dyslexia, her passion for stories allowed her to overcome the challenges that came with telling them.
While she writes in many genres, she most enjoys creating stories for young adults that place real-life obstacles into fantastic worlds.
You can connect with her via:
Facebook,
https://www.facebook.com/KMicheleMose...
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https://www.instagram.com/kmichelemos...
While she writes in many genres, she most enjoys creating stories for young adults that place real-life obstacles into fantastic worlds.
You can connect with her via:
Facebook,
https://www.facebook.com/KMicheleMose...
Instagram,
https://www.instagram.com/kmichelemos...
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
October 2, 2023
A suspenseful and compelling YA Fantasy...
This book surprised me and broke me as each event unfolded. I found myself in heartbreak for Niena, whose belief that she deserved punishment was something I could relate to, having felt that way at a previous church. Then, I felt bad for Lera, as she desperately tries to find her sister and do what she can to survive in the cult of the Giver. Orelo, too, had my compassion, as he sought freedom away from the island. But besides the emotional journey of these characters, the plot shocked me. I did not expect what happened, and I'm pretty good at predicting things. So Moseley wonderfully balanced the foreshadowing with the plot developments so that I didn't see it coming. The world itself is simplistic-imagine an island with huts and a temple, and you've pretty much got it. For most of the story, magic isn't even present, and you're left to wonder how Diento has such a hold over the island. Yet, the easy to understand worldbuilding is balanced with the complex plot and deep characters, creating a wonderful recipe for a Y.A. paranormal fantasy book. After finishing it, I definitely want to read book 2!
Content Warnings: Infant loss and labor difficulties, premarital sex (off the page), descriptions of blood and pain, spiritual and emotional abuse.
This book surprised me and broke me as each event unfolded. I found myself in heartbreak for Niena, whose belief that she deserved punishment was something I could relate to, having felt that way at a previous church. Then, I felt bad for Lera, as she desperately tries to find her sister and do what she can to survive in the cult of the Giver. Orelo, too, had my compassion, as he sought freedom away from the island. But besides the emotional journey of these characters, the plot shocked me. I did not expect what happened, and I'm pretty good at predicting things. So Moseley wonderfully balanced the foreshadowing with the plot developments so that I didn't see it coming. The world itself is simplistic-imagine an island with huts and a temple, and you've pretty much got it. For most of the story, magic isn't even present, and you're left to wonder how Diento has such a hold over the island. Yet, the easy to understand worldbuilding is balanced with the complex plot and deep characters, creating a wonderful recipe for a Y.A. paranormal fantasy book. After finishing it, I definitely want to read book 2!
Content Warnings: Infant loss and labor difficulties, premarital sex (off the page), descriptions of blood and pain, spiritual and emotional abuse.
October 26, 2023
In K. Michele Moseley's sophomore effort she ups the ante, introducing us to a dark and devastating world of lies, cult tactics, and trauma. Our heroine, the fierce and indomitable Lera, had never played by the rules and religion that dictate life on Capelo Island. But all of that changes when tragedy besets her sweet and unquestioning sister. Now Lera will do the only thing she's never done: follow the rules.
I admire the way Moseley takes worn tropes and twists them to create something wholly original. This story sounded familiar on the outset and yet became something twisted and complex, that was as exciting as it was thought provoking. What is the cost of conformity? What do we do when our systems fail us? How do we go on knowing everything we've built our lives on has betrayed us?
This book dances a fine line between fantasy, romance, and even at times horror, somewhat reminiscent of works like House of Salt and Sorrows. But I think the big picture questions it asks and refuses to answer even put it in line with dystopian classics like Handmaid's Tale. For all of this, it is not a book without hope, far from it. But it is very much a story for everyone who grapples with questions that have no answers. And I can't wait to see if Moseley finds them in her future endeavors.
I admire the way Moseley takes worn tropes and twists them to create something wholly original. This story sounded familiar on the outset and yet became something twisted and complex, that was as exciting as it was thought provoking. What is the cost of conformity? What do we do when our systems fail us? How do we go on knowing everything we've built our lives on has betrayed us?
This book dances a fine line between fantasy, romance, and even at times horror, somewhat reminiscent of works like House of Salt and Sorrows. But I think the big picture questions it asks and refuses to answer even put it in line with dystopian classics like Handmaid's Tale. For all of this, it is not a book without hope, far from it. But it is very much a story for everyone who grapples with questions that have no answers. And I can't wait to see if Moseley finds them in her future endeavors.
December 28, 2023
A dark fantasy that balances the hopelessness of sin with the promise of something more, Sigils of the Giver also hints at the hope of salvation. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to Part 2.
October 23, 2023
Moseley does a fairly good job of world building although it is done gradually and at times I felt like I didn’t have quite enough information for that moment in time. Lera’s sister Niena disappears in a mysterious way. Lera wants to discover what happened so she determines to be a model citizen of their community (something she hasn’t been up to this point). She doesn’t trust the religious leaders and looks for ways to expose them. Without sharing spoilers - the religious system follows the god of the sea and has made bargains with this god that are painful to pay.
This story does contain what I would consider triggers. As someone who has had skin rashes my entire life (severe at times) I really struggled with the concept in the book that the itching, scaly skin was a result of some sin committed. There is also a stillbirth at one point in the story that is viewed by some as punishment for a past sin. I really struggled with these two parts of the story but someone who has never had a severe rash or had a pregnancy loss may not be affected by these parts of the story.
There seems to be some redemption at the end of the book leading me to believe that good will win over evil in the next book. I’ll just have to wait and see.
There is indication at one point in the story that Lera gives herself to Haro - a scene that includes them re-dressing. For this reason I would not recommend this book for a K-12 Christian school library. I did find the story enjoyable and look forward to reading what happens in book 2 but it isn’t really appropriate for young adults.
I received a complimentary copy of Sigils of the Giver. This is my honest review.
This story does contain what I would consider triggers. As someone who has had skin rashes my entire life (severe at times) I really struggled with the concept in the book that the itching, scaly skin was a result of some sin committed. There is also a stillbirth at one point in the story that is viewed by some as punishment for a past sin. I really struggled with these two parts of the story but someone who has never had a severe rash or had a pregnancy loss may not be affected by these parts of the story.
There seems to be some redemption at the end of the book leading me to believe that good will win over evil in the next book. I’ll just have to wait and see.
There is indication at one point in the story that Lera gives herself to Haro - a scene that includes them re-dressing. For this reason I would not recommend this book for a K-12 Christian school library. I did find the story enjoyable and look forward to reading what happens in book 2 but it isn’t really appropriate for young adults.
I received a complimentary copy of Sigils of the Giver. This is my honest review.
October 17, 2023
The first thing you need to know is that this is a duology and there is more to come.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started the story, but it was not what I read. Sigils of the Giver was better than my expectations.
This is a compelling story especially for anyone who has experienced the darker side of religion. This is a story for anyone who has felt crazy for going against the flow. This is a story for anyone that stands up for their ideals and beliefs.
if you have read my reviews, you know I’m a fan of character growth.
Sigils of the Giver did not disappoint me, but her growth is uniquely done. It does not go in the direction you expect.
Lera is a strong character, but rebellious. She is not a fan of the way things are run on the island and she is not quiet about it.
There are some moments though that had me almost put the book down. This is a spoiler free review, so I won’t say what, but if you get to that point, keep reading. It will make sense.
This is a story of forgiveness, finding true freedom, and love.
In my opinion, it is a heavier read, but the message is one that you can tell came from the author’s heart. I can’t wait to read the second one and see where Lera’s story is taking her.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started the story, but it was not what I read. Sigils of the Giver was better than my expectations.
This is a compelling story especially for anyone who has experienced the darker side of religion. This is a story for anyone who has felt crazy for going against the flow. This is a story for anyone that stands up for their ideals and beliefs.
if you have read my reviews, you know I’m a fan of character growth.
Sigils of the Giver did not disappoint me, but her growth is uniquely done. It does not go in the direction you expect.
Lera is a strong character, but rebellious. She is not a fan of the way things are run on the island and she is not quiet about it.
There are some moments though that had me almost put the book down. This is a spoiler free review, so I won’t say what, but if you get to that point, keep reading. It will make sense.
This is a story of forgiveness, finding true freedom, and love.
In my opinion, it is a heavier read, but the message is one that you can tell came from the author’s heart. I can’t wait to read the second one and see where Lera’s story is taking her.
September 13, 2023
I had the pleasure of beta reading for this amazing story, and to see it set sail into the world of readers brings me so much joy. And let me tell you why!
K. Michelle Moseley is an artistic writer who will evoke your emotions and keep you captive without being over-the-top and dramatic. The subtlety, suspense, and nuance in her world-building and plot-crafting is done so masterfully. She won’t shy away from the darkness, corruption, and “rawness” of human experience, but she also includes glimmers of hope and redemption visible throughout without being overbearing. I have high respect for authors who successfully strike that balance.
What’s more, suspense/mystery/paranormal isn’t even my preferred genre. Fantasy/sci-fi and action/adventure sate my reading thirst with their massive worlds and high-stakes climactic battles. I also manage to predict many plot-twists well ahead of their reveals in most stories. But let me tell YOU - Sigils of the Giver had me guessing in circles, fixed to the edge of my seat the entire time without so much as one “battle scene.” It was an absolutely incredible read, and one I think many readers are going to enjoy!
K. Michelle Moseley is an artistic writer who will evoke your emotions and keep you captive without being over-the-top and dramatic. The subtlety, suspense, and nuance in her world-building and plot-crafting is done so masterfully. She won’t shy away from the darkness, corruption, and “rawness” of human experience, but she also includes glimmers of hope and redemption visible throughout without being overbearing. I have high respect for authors who successfully strike that balance.
What’s more, suspense/mystery/paranormal isn’t even my preferred genre. Fantasy/sci-fi and action/adventure sate my reading thirst with their massive worlds and high-stakes climactic battles. I also manage to predict many plot-twists well ahead of their reveals in most stories. But let me tell YOU - Sigils of the Giver had me guessing in circles, fixed to the edge of my seat the entire time without so much as one “battle scene.” It was an absolutely incredible read, and one I think many readers are going to enjoy!
September 11, 2023
I got to read an advance copy of this book, and I've been so excited for it to come out to broader readership ever since. The setting of Capelo Island feels rich in history and full of life. The relationships of our main character, Lera, are believable and multifaceted. I especially love the bond between her and her sister, Niena, because it doesn't matter how different some of their core beliefs are: they will still always take care of each other.
My favorite thing about this story is its nuance. It's not a simple, two-sided conflict, and no one is completely right. Lera is right to question the society she's grown up in, but not all of her skepticism is well placed. Without going into spoilers, the story rewards rereading; there's so much you'll notice the second time through.
This is the first installment in a duology, and the conclusion definitely left me eager to read what happens next. We got a taste of what the larger world is like outside of Capelo Island, and I'm hoping the sequel will let us dig in for more.
My favorite thing about this story is its nuance. It's not a simple, two-sided conflict, and no one is completely right. Lera is right to question the society she's grown up in, but not all of her skepticism is well placed. Without going into spoilers, the story rewards rereading; there's so much you'll notice the second time through.
This is the first installment in a duology, and the conclusion definitely left me eager to read what happens next. We got a taste of what the larger world is like outside of Capelo Island, and I'm hoping the sequel will let us dig in for more.
October 17, 2023
I had the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of Sigils of the Giver, and I very much enjoyed it! The story centers on a young woman on a secluded island who is struggling with grief, parental and societal expectations, and religious trauma. Moseley doesn't shy away from tough topics like loss, truth-seeking, and unhealthy coping mechanisms. While this may not be a comfortable read (no cozy vibes here), it was a gritty and gripping one with an interesting setting. Much of the story reads like a mystery, and when a twist is revealed past the half-way point I definitely enjoyed rereading the first half to pick up on all the hints and glimpses of the truth that I had overlooked the first time. Overall, I thought it was a compelling take on some mythic ideas, and I can't wait to see where the story goes in part two of the duology!
September 26, 2023
This book pours a lifetime of struggle into a fantasy world and acts as a mirror for anyone who's escaping emotional and spiritual abuse. We all need a mirror like this help us ask--Why do we keep struggling to be free, even when we feel like we'll always be trapped? Why do people pretend everything's ok when it's obviously not? Why do we hide? Forget? Repress? How do we speak openly about these experiences? And how do we help each other through it all? Bonus, it's all in a world I want to see more of.
October 16, 2023
Very moving and suspenseful fantasy story about a terrible cult on an island and how a brave woman tries to find and to save her sister. It is a heartbreaking but also so real and true story about how a fals idol and his worshippers can destroy people. I will definetely read the next book in this series and I hope the main characters will find the true Giver of everything.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews