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Bringer and the Bane #1
Shield of Fire
Protecting humans is the Bringers’ duty. Sending demons to the Shadow World is their pleasure. In one night, Ravyn’s life plunges from barely tolerable to deadly. Forced to flee the only homeshe’s known, she stumbles headlong into the clutches of Icarus, a powerful demon intent on stealing her powers. Unfortunately for him, she has no intention of cooperating. When Rhys realizes the woman he’s rescued from the Bane Demon is no mere human, his obligation as a Bringer dictates he protect and train her in the ways of his people. But he’s unprepared for the intense desire he feels for the fiery Ravyn. To surrender to his need may mean her death. As the Demon King’s desire for ultimate power escalates, fathers are slated against sons, and foes are made allies. The Bane threat upon them, Rhys and Ravyn must quest to unite the last of the Bringers—and explore a passion too powerful to ignore.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
June 28, 2011
I can't finish this book. I reached 40% and that was enough. My problems with the book
1) The dialogue- The speaker is a 23 year old girl that just learned she was a supernatural being called a "Bringer". She was raised in an Abbey and never spent any time in the outside world. She is commenting about Rhys's story of his parents (he is the other "Bringer")
"That is a truly perplexing story. I feel like there must be more. Something we are missing."
Hello? Really, so she just learns she is a Bringer and she talks like this? And now, she is going into Scooby-do mode trying to solve the big mystery? Whatever!
2) The setting- What year is this? What is the location? At times they use terms like "Lord" and "Lady", there are Inns, Abbeys, horses, carriages but then most of the dialogue is modern. I can't figure it out.
3) The characters- Besides unrealistic dialogue, the characters were unbelievable even for a paranormal novel. Ravyn's easy acceptance of her new role as a Bringer was ridiculous. She also makes the first move on Rhys even though a few pages early she is in an uproar because they had to act married to stay at the Inn (she made comments about not knowing how to act married, and how she had never been around a man).
4) The story- The story was too confusing. Terms were used but not explained. I had to constantly go back to see if I missed something.
I tried, but I couldn't go on. I don't even know how to rate this book or if I should. Oh well!
1) The dialogue- The speaker is a 23 year old girl that just learned she was a supernatural being called a "Bringer". She was raised in an Abbey and never spent any time in the outside world. She is commenting about Rhys's story of his parents (he is the other "Bringer")
"That is a truly perplexing story. I feel like there must be more. Something we are missing."
Hello? Really, so she just learns she is a Bringer and she talks like this? And now, she is going into Scooby-do mode trying to solve the big mystery? Whatever!
2) The setting- What year is this? What is the location? At times they use terms like "Lord" and "Lady", there are Inns, Abbeys, horses, carriages but then most of the dialogue is modern. I can't figure it out.
3) The characters- Besides unrealistic dialogue, the characters were unbelievable even for a paranormal novel. Ravyn's easy acceptance of her new role as a Bringer was ridiculous. She also makes the first move on Rhys even though a few pages early she is in an uproar because they had to act married to stay at the Inn (she made comments about not knowing how to act married, and how she had never been around a man).
4) The story- The story was too confusing. Terms were used but not explained. I had to constantly go back to see if I missed something.
I tried, but I couldn't go on. I don't even know how to rate this book or if I should. Oh well!
January 26, 2015
This was originally posted on my blog http://bibliophilemystery.blogspot.com/
I had a hard time getting into this book, I don't really know why, because it's not a bad book, I guess I just read it at the wrong moment.
Ravyn grew up at the Abbey since infancy, never knew who her parents were, thought they gave her away because of her abilities. She can use fire as a weapon to defend herself, see spirits and interact with them. Life at the Abbey wasn’t good, but she had the other girls, who always came to her for advice, she has always been the strong one, always taking care of the ones she cared about.
Rhys is the last full blooded Bringer, mythical warriors that can sense and fight the Bane. The rest of his kind were killed by these demons some 300 years ago, and he’s fighting them by himself ever since. Something else is luring him to the Abbey, besides his Bane alarm: an unfamiliar presence he feels attracted to. But he made a vow long time ago, not to let feelings get in the way of his duty.
When Ravyn is almost killed by Icarus, the Bane’s second in command, Rhys must save her, keep her safe and also find out what the Bane wants her for. They immediately feel an intense desire, but Rhys’ vow keeps him from showing his feelings.
However I found some things that didn’t work for me.
I felt a little bit out of time. The age when the action takes place isn’t mentioned in the novel, and I’m not really ok with that. It’s a time when people ride horses and stay at an Inn, nothing strange here. But the dialogues are modern. I don’t think people riding horses used words like “sexy”or “perplexing”.
The easy way in which some characters take in the existence of supernatural elements seemed a little unnatural to me. It’s not bad, just odd.
Ravyn walks through many first-time-things in this novel too quickly and in an easy way…there’s no accommodation time between the last one and the next.
I would have liked a better explaining of some terms, and some abilities mentioned at the beginning were almost forgotten in the rest of the book. But since there will be at least another book in the series, I hope we'll find more about that.
I had a hard time getting into this book, I don't really know why, because it's not a bad book, I guess I just read it at the wrong moment.
Ravyn grew up at the Abbey since infancy, never knew who her parents were, thought they gave her away because of her abilities. She can use fire as a weapon to defend herself, see spirits and interact with them. Life at the Abbey wasn’t good, but she had the other girls, who always came to her for advice, she has always been the strong one, always taking care of the ones she cared about.
Rhys is the last full blooded Bringer, mythical warriors that can sense and fight the Bane. The rest of his kind were killed by these demons some 300 years ago, and he’s fighting them by himself ever since. Something else is luring him to the Abbey, besides his Bane alarm: an unfamiliar presence he feels attracted to. But he made a vow long time ago, not to let feelings get in the way of his duty.
When Ravyn is almost killed by Icarus, the Bane’s second in command, Rhys must save her, keep her safe and also find out what the Bane wants her for. They immediately feel an intense desire, but Rhys’ vow keeps him from showing his feelings.
However I found some things that didn’t work for me.
I felt a little bit out of time. The age when the action takes place isn’t mentioned in the novel, and I’m not really ok with that. It’s a time when people ride horses and stay at an Inn, nothing strange here. But the dialogues are modern. I don’t think people riding horses used words like “sexy”or “perplexing”.
The easy way in which some characters take in the existence of supernatural elements seemed a little unnatural to me. It’s not bad, just odd.
Ravyn walks through many first-time-things in this novel too quickly and in an easy way…there’s no accommodation time between the last one and the next.
I would have liked a better explaining of some terms, and some abilities mentioned at the beginning were almost forgotten in the rest of the book. But since there will be at least another book in the series, I hope we'll find more about that.
December 2, 2012
Too hot for words......
Shield of fire is the number one reason I think we need to adopt a writer every month, everyone buys the book making sells sky rocket.
You can stick a fork in this one, it's a best seller.
From page one to the end it's action was nonstop and I fell in love with Rhys and Ravyn from the word go or stop.
Ms Boone has made my top 10 authors list of all time with this book.
My hat is off to you until your next book.......
Shield of fire is the number one reason I think we need to adopt a writer every month, everyone buys the book making sells sky rocket.
You can stick a fork in this one, it's a best seller.
From page one to the end it's action was nonstop and I fell in love with Rhys and Ravyn from the word go or stop.
Ms Boone has made my top 10 authors list of all time with this book.
My hat is off to you until your next book.......
November 22, 2013
As much fun as it is reading about vampires and shifters, apparently reading about demons can be just the same. They all have their dark sides, sure, but the word demon is enough to tip the scales in favor of evil. And the demons in these books, well, I guess they are the bad guys- they're called the Bane- but that's okay because we have our heroes and heroines to fight against them. Such as Rhys. He's a Bringer, the eternal enemy and destroyer of the demons called the Bane. His specialty among the Bringers is Shield, and you can guess what that means as the name is pretty self explanatory. One faithful night, he saves a clueless young woman, Ravyn, from the clutches of yet another Bane, and starts the story for us hungry readers. Ravyn is a woman who grew up in a monastery with almost no contact whatsoever with the outside world so when I say she's clueless, I mean she's really clueless. She thinks the Bane is just a bed time scary story, and the Bringers are just a legend. Boy, is she in for a surprise.
It's exciting to start a new story, being inside a new world and meeting new characters. Sometimes it's only okay, sometimes it unfortunately doesn't interest you, and sometimes-and this happens to me mostly, thank God- it grabs your attention and holds on. Can you guess which one was this? Why, yes, this story sure grabbed tight.
The characters were likable, with Rhys' protective personality, he was a true hero material. He was dark and dangerous, sure, but what I liked most about him was his emotional side. I thought he was somewhat more sensitive than any previous paranormal heroes I've read. He took his duties as a Shield very seriously, and when he failed, even under circumstances out of his control, his guilt ate at him. I don't remember reading a man who was so open about his feelings and so accepting and sure of his love.
Ravyn was also a good written character. Being a stranger to the world and yet being a strong woman who comes to realize her worth and powers is one of my pet peeves in fiction. Every time I see a heroine who has the potential to kick ass, I try to take it easy, but thankfully my fears for Ravyn were unfounded. I found her to be quite relatable. After being secreted away for years, emotionally abused by the monastery members about who she might be, she was intent on gaining her freedom in every way. She still depended on Rhys about this new world, but when the time came for her to stand on her own two feet, she was more than willing and quite successful.
Remember the Bane I mentioned whose clutches Rhys saved Ravyn from on the first night of this story? Don't think that's an ordinary demon, for now he seemed like the anti hero, the overall bad guy, and yet I couldn't hate him. There was something that attracted him to me as a character, and I believe the author did this on purpose. There's still much to be found out about that demon.
As a series first, I say this was a success. There were enough breadcrumbs to keep my interest throughout the whole book, and there was enough mystery to keep me wondering and wanting the next book.
It's exciting to start a new story, being inside a new world and meeting new characters. Sometimes it's only okay, sometimes it unfortunately doesn't interest you, and sometimes-and this happens to me mostly, thank God- it grabs your attention and holds on. Can you guess which one was this? Why, yes, this story sure grabbed tight.
The characters were likable, with Rhys' protective personality, he was a true hero material. He was dark and dangerous, sure, but what I liked most about him was his emotional side. I thought he was somewhat more sensitive than any previous paranormal heroes I've read. He took his duties as a Shield very seriously, and when he failed, even under circumstances out of his control, his guilt ate at him. I don't remember reading a man who was so open about his feelings and so accepting and sure of his love.
Ravyn was also a good written character. Being a stranger to the world and yet being a strong woman who comes to realize her worth and powers is one of my pet peeves in fiction. Every time I see a heroine who has the potential to kick ass, I try to take it easy, but thankfully my fears for Ravyn were unfounded. I found her to be quite relatable. After being secreted away for years, emotionally abused by the monastery members about who she might be, she was intent on gaining her freedom in every way. She still depended on Rhys about this new world, but when the time came for her to stand on her own two feet, she was more than willing and quite successful.
Remember the Bane I mentioned whose clutches Rhys saved Ravyn from on the first night of this story? Don't think that's an ordinary demon, for now he seemed like the anti hero, the overall bad guy, and yet I couldn't hate him. There was something that attracted him to me as a character, and I believe the author did this on purpose. There's still much to be found out about that demon.
As a series first, I say this was a success. There were enough breadcrumbs to keep my interest throughout the whole book, and there was enough mystery to keep me wondering and wanting the next book.
January 6, 2012
Ravyn has always known she was different. But the sisters in the abbey where she was raised always told her that her gifts were really a curse. She feared she was Bane... a demon. She had never seen one of the evil ones, though, until the depraved Brother Powell summons the demon Icarus to grant him a sacrifice.
Though Powell offers him another girl, Icarus is looking specifically for Ravyn. His father, the demon ruler, wants her so that he can absorb her powers. But Ravyn manages to escape and stumbles upon Rhys. He is a Bringer, a warrior who fights the demons. And it doesn't take long for them both to realize that she is a Bringer as well.
Rhys takes Ravyn under his protection. In her company, the hardened Bringer begins to have feelings he hasn't experienced in centuries. But soon he starts to question whether he can open himself up to love without sacrificing his honor as a Bringer or his ability to protect Ravyn. All this, as the Bane intensify their efforts to capture the young woman with so much untapped power.
My biggest complaint about the book was that the pacing was uneven. There were some slow parts as we approached the midway point. And I hated the unnecessary hurt Rhys causes when he takes the martyr's route in the second half. But there were a lot of things I did like too. While the setting isn't overtly spelled out, the book had an alternative-medieval feel... all that great warriors/ dragon/ swordsman stuff. And I enjoyed the love story between Rhys and Raven (despite the aforementioned detour.) You can see her bringing him back to life as he exposes her to things she never could have imagined as a sheltered girl in the abbey.
The love scenes were hot, but they also managed to include emotional intimacy without feeling cheesy. The main characters were well developed... even the villainous Icarus never fell flat. (And speaking of Icarus --there is obviously more to this demon than meets the eye. I have a feeling there are big surprises on the horizon regarding him.) We're also introduced to a great cast of supporting characters, which presumably will anchor future books in the series. My money is on Luc and Jade for book two.
I liked it. And I'm interested to see where the story goes next. 4 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
Though Powell offers him another girl, Icarus is looking specifically for Ravyn. His father, the demon ruler, wants her so that he can absorb her powers. But Ravyn manages to escape and stumbles upon Rhys. He is a Bringer, a warrior who fights the demons. And it doesn't take long for them both to realize that she is a Bringer as well.
Rhys takes Ravyn under his protection. In her company, the hardened Bringer begins to have feelings he hasn't experienced in centuries. But soon he starts to question whether he can open himself up to love without sacrificing his honor as a Bringer or his ability to protect Ravyn. All this, as the Bane intensify their efforts to capture the young woman with so much untapped power.
My biggest complaint about the book was that the pacing was uneven. There were some slow parts as we approached the midway point. And I hated the unnecessary hurt Rhys causes when he takes the martyr's route in the second half. But there were a lot of things I did like too. While the setting isn't overtly spelled out, the book had an alternative-medieval feel... all that great warriors/ dragon/ swordsman stuff. And I enjoyed the love story between Rhys and Raven (despite the aforementioned detour.) You can see her bringing him back to life as he exposes her to things she never could have imagined as a sheltered girl in the abbey.
The love scenes were hot, but they also managed to include emotional intimacy without feeling cheesy. The main characters were well developed... even the villainous Icarus never fell flat. (And speaking of Icarus --there is obviously more to this demon than meets the eye. I have a feeling there are big surprises on the horizon regarding him.) We're also introduced to a great cast of supporting characters, which presumably will anchor future books in the series. My money is on Luc and Jade for book two.
I liked it. And I'm interested to see where the story goes next. 4 stars.
*ARC Provided by NetGalley
December 26, 2011
Shield of Fire was kindly provided to me by Netgalley for Entangled Publishing.
I have to admit, I was initially drawn to this book because of the cover but unfortunately the story wasn't as appealing as the cover.
Ravyn Mayfield was bought up on sacred ground at Menda Abbey where she was led to believe the powers she had were actually a curse, she was treated badly and never truly understood what she was or the extent of her abilities as she was orphaned young. It isn’t until a night when her friend was murdered, she is attacked by a Monk and a Demon or Bane as they are known came after her that she escapes and is rescued by Rhys where she realizes there could possibly be others who share the same powers as herself.
Rhys Blackwell is the last full-blooded Bringer, a protector of mankind against demon bane who saves Ravyn from the Monk, Powell who is after her as well as the Demon Icarus, the Banes second in Command. He takes her under his wing, heals, protects and trains her in her powers as it is recognized she is also a full-blood bringer all the while fighting his growing attraction towards her.
The relationship between Ravyn and Rhys initially seemed forced, but I am thankful that as the story progressed so too did the believability of them being together; I liked the fact she bought about the good in him and changed his seemingly old fashioned mindset, he took his job seriously and believed love certainly wasn’t for him.
I enjoyed the secondary characters, more so than the main H/H especially Luc! I loved his wit and cheeky humor and hope the next book will be about him and Jade. The Demon Icarus has me intrigued; I think there is more to him than what we have learnt.
The pacing for me was a bit choppy; it seemed to lag in the middle but picked up again towards the end. I was also a bit stumped about the setting; I had no idea of the era or location so it was a bit of a guessing game, I did enjoy the vivid imagery though.
I enjoyed the Bringer and Demon history and mythology; the book had a medieval type feel to it which I enjoyed although in saying this I think it could have been executed differently.
Shield of Fire was just an ok read for me, the premise was interesting but the delivery fell flat. If there is a Luc/Jade story to follow, I would still be interested in reading this.
I have to admit, I was initially drawn to this book because of the cover but unfortunately the story wasn't as appealing as the cover.
Ravyn Mayfield was bought up on sacred ground at Menda Abbey where she was led to believe the powers she had were actually a curse, she was treated badly and never truly understood what she was or the extent of her abilities as she was orphaned young. It isn’t until a night when her friend was murdered, she is attacked by a Monk and a Demon or Bane as they are known came after her that she escapes and is rescued by Rhys where she realizes there could possibly be others who share the same powers as herself.
Rhys Blackwell is the last full-blooded Bringer, a protector of mankind against demon bane who saves Ravyn from the Monk, Powell who is after her as well as the Demon Icarus, the Banes second in Command. He takes her under his wing, heals, protects and trains her in her powers as it is recognized she is also a full-blood bringer all the while fighting his growing attraction towards her.
The relationship between Ravyn and Rhys initially seemed forced, but I am thankful that as the story progressed so too did the believability of them being together; I liked the fact she bought about the good in him and changed his seemingly old fashioned mindset, he took his job seriously and believed love certainly wasn’t for him.
I enjoyed the secondary characters, more so than the main H/H especially Luc! I loved his wit and cheeky humor and hope the next book will be about him and Jade. The Demon Icarus has me intrigued; I think there is more to him than what we have learnt.
The pacing for me was a bit choppy; it seemed to lag in the middle but picked up again towards the end. I was also a bit stumped about the setting; I had no idea of the era or location so it was a bit of a guessing game, I did enjoy the vivid imagery though.
I enjoyed the Bringer and Demon history and mythology; the book had a medieval type feel to it which I enjoyed although in saying this I think it could have been executed differently.
Shield of Fire was just an ok read for me, the premise was interesting but the delivery fell flat. If there is a Luc/Jade story to follow, I would still be interested in reading this.
July 23, 2016
Ravyn has lived her whole life in Menda Abbey having been left there as a baby it is the only life she has ever known. She knows that she is far different from the other girls at the abbey, but due to her lack of connection of the outside world she world she doesn’t know why. One night when her body has alerted her of danger she finds herself face to face with the evil Demon Bane. Icarus is second in command to the Demon Bane and he is after Ravyn for her powers. Rhys’s is a Bringer. He has lived the last three hundred years believing that he is the last full blooded Bringer. His life’s purpose is to send the Demon Bane back to the Shadow World. One night in his pursuit of the Demon Bane he catches the Demon Icarus’s attack of a not so helpless female.
From here the non-stop action begins and does not stop as the readers are taken through a world where the Demons are trying to rise up out of the Shadow World with their Army of Souls out of the Abyss. Rhys knows that Ravyn is not a normal human and that she can help with the fight against the Demon Bane. Rhys is hindered as a Bringer, the majority of their Immortal Weapons and written history has been lost. The more Rhys travels with Ravyn while taking her to a safe place where he can train her to utilize her powers to the best of her ability the stronger their attraction for one another grows. This book holds many surprises too. Some characters are much more than what they initially seem to be holding extra powers and also hiding an inner beast. Brux has created a very interesting world.
There are several aspects of this book that brought the rating down for me. I do not like historicals or books that are set in a historical like world. This book is not a historical, but it is set in a fantasy world with numerous historical aspects. Ravyn’s character was childish and extremely headstrong. Those two characteristics in one person were too contradictory. Rhys’s love declaration for Ravyn fell out of nowhere, and then he flipped back to protector, and then flopped back into her arms. It left the romance with a feeling of inevitability. I was confused with the ending of the book and Rhys’s declaration that the first order of business was to “kill” a certain character. The comment came from out of the blue.
From here the non-stop action begins and does not stop as the readers are taken through a world where the Demons are trying to rise up out of the Shadow World with their Army of Souls out of the Abyss. Rhys knows that Ravyn is not a normal human and that she can help with the fight against the Demon Bane. Rhys is hindered as a Bringer, the majority of their Immortal Weapons and written history has been lost. The more Rhys travels with Ravyn while taking her to a safe place where he can train her to utilize her powers to the best of her ability the stronger their attraction for one another grows. This book holds many surprises too. Some characters are much more than what they initially seem to be holding extra powers and also hiding an inner beast. Brux has created a very interesting world.
There are several aspects of this book that brought the rating down for me. I do not like historicals or books that are set in a historical like world. This book is not a historical, but it is set in a fantasy world with numerous historical aspects. Ravyn’s character was childish and extremely headstrong. Those two characteristics in one person were too contradictory. Rhys’s love declaration for Ravyn fell out of nowhere, and then he flipped back to protector, and then flopped back into her arms. It left the romance with a feeling of inevitability. I was confused with the ending of the book and Rhys’s declaration that the first order of business was to “kill” a certain character. The comment came from out of the blue.
December 28, 2011
I am not ashamed to say I chose this book to review simply because of the cover. (okay, maybe a little ashamed). But thankfully I did like the book, too. LOL.
Ravyn has been raised in an abbey. One night her whole life changes when a monk, Brother Powell, delivers her friend Angela to the demon Icarus as a sacrifice and then tries to deliver her.
She's saved from a horrible death by Rhys Blackwell, the last full-blooded Bringer Shield. He has been protecting mankind from the Demon Bane for over 300 years.
After saving and healing her, Rhys starts to notice that maybe Ravyn isn't exactly human like he originally thought. She shows signs of being a Bringer, but he just can't be sure which kind. Also, she awakens certain feelings inside him he was sure he no longer could feel.
The couple then goes on a journey in search of the last remaining Bringers to try and save humanity from the evil Vile, King of the Demon Bane. And to try and understand their feelings for each other.
I enjoyed the characters and the promise of this series, but mostly the book just dragged... nothing much happens, except for a few encounters with the demons (the few times they stepped out of holy ground). Maybe more will happen in the next books?
As to the romance... it was cute to read their thoughts about each other and how they tried to fight their feelings because of their own personal reasons, but there really wasn't much tension between them at all. I expected this book to be a bit more spicy because of the cover, but as it turned out, things were pretty much PG-rated most of the time. LOL. Except for chapter 17. ;P That was hot.
The ending was predictable, but nice. I'm not sure how many books the author is planning for this series, but I'll probably check out the next adventure. :)
If you like stories that build up, innocent romance and demon fighting in a historical setting, then try Shield of Fire.
*I was given an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Ravyn has been raised in an abbey. One night her whole life changes when a monk, Brother Powell, delivers her friend Angela to the demon Icarus as a sacrifice and then tries to deliver her.
She's saved from a horrible death by Rhys Blackwell, the last full-blooded Bringer Shield. He has been protecting mankind from the Demon Bane for over 300 years.
After saving and healing her, Rhys starts to notice that maybe Ravyn isn't exactly human like he originally thought. She shows signs of being a Bringer, but he just can't be sure which kind. Also, she awakens certain feelings inside him he was sure he no longer could feel.
The couple then goes on a journey in search of the last remaining Bringers to try and save humanity from the evil Vile, King of the Demon Bane. And to try and understand their feelings for each other.
I enjoyed the characters and the promise of this series, but mostly the book just dragged... nothing much happens, except for a few encounters with the demons (the few times they stepped out of holy ground). Maybe more will happen in the next books?
As to the romance... it was cute to read their thoughts about each other and how they tried to fight their feelings because of their own personal reasons, but there really wasn't much tension between them at all. I expected this book to be a bit more spicy because of the cover, but as it turned out, things were pretty much PG-rated most of the time. LOL. Except for chapter 17. ;P That was hot.
The ending was predictable, but nice. I'm not sure how many books the author is planning for this series, but I'll probably check out the next adventure. :)
If you like stories that build up, innocent romance and demon fighting in a historical setting, then try Shield of Fire.
*I was given an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
June 4, 2012
JRR Tolkien meets Nora Roberts and they have a baby ...and that baby would be Shield of Fire! I really, really enjoyed this book. Normally, I'm not a big romance fan these days--but, I know the author well and wanted to give the book a try.
Boy, was I pleasantly surprised! The rich world building aspects and dark edge propelled me instantly into the restricted, isolated atmosphere of the Abby, the deep forests, the quaint medieval towns, and the bustling pre-plague like cities. I walked with her characters through every battle scene and pictured the demons they fought with crystal clarity. The relationship that slowly builds between Ravyn and Rhys is the icing on the cake. I swear, if more high fantasy books had this type of hero and heroine depth I'd still be reading them instead of my preferred genre of urban fantasy.
Ravyn blossoms in this book from a woman who always had a strong core and a fierce loyalty to her fellow young women in the abbey, to a warrior with the power and skill to finally back up what she's always wanted to do -- fight bullies of any kind.
Boone creates believable characters in a unique and colorful setting. Her world so enthralled me I literally moaned aloud in my bathtub when the book ended. I won't spoil it, but she's done such a masterful job of telling one segment of this conflict with the Demon Bane, that I'm anxious to read the next installment through the eyes of more Bringers.
BRING it on, Boone! You've got me hooked and I can hardly wait for the next book!
Boy, was I pleasantly surprised! The rich world building aspects and dark edge propelled me instantly into the restricted, isolated atmosphere of the Abby, the deep forests, the quaint medieval towns, and the bustling pre-plague like cities. I walked with her characters through every battle scene and pictured the demons they fought with crystal clarity. The relationship that slowly builds between Ravyn and Rhys is the icing on the cake. I swear, if more high fantasy books had this type of hero and heroine depth I'd still be reading them instead of my preferred genre of urban fantasy.
Ravyn blossoms in this book from a woman who always had a strong core and a fierce loyalty to her fellow young women in the abbey, to a warrior with the power and skill to finally back up what she's always wanted to do -- fight bullies of any kind.
Boone creates believable characters in a unique and colorful setting. Her world so enthralled me I literally moaned aloud in my bathtub when the book ended. I won't spoil it, but she's done such a masterful job of telling one segment of this conflict with the Demon Bane, that I'm anxious to read the next installment through the eyes of more Bringers.
BRING it on, Boone! You've got me hooked and I can hardly wait for the next book!
December 14, 2011
This story drew me in and held me from page one. I finally put it down at midnight, but had to finish it the next day. I love a series and for me, this is a series I will continue to read. The author's world is full of rich vivid description.It felt very Legend of the Seekerish , which I love.
The characters stepped off the page for me, including the secondary characters. There are several I hope to read more about in the following books.I enjoyed the bad guys being really bad. I can't help but wonder what the author has in store for Icarus. He's bad, but I definitely get the impression there's more going on with him than we've been told.
Love the ending. I'm hoping it's Luc and Jade. I got that impression from the ending.
The characters stepped off the page for me, including the secondary characters. There are several I hope to read more about in the following books.I enjoyed the bad guys being really bad. I can't help but wonder what the author has in store for Icarus. He's bad, but I definitely get the impression there's more going on with him than we've been told.
Love the ending. I'm hoping it's Luc and Jade. I got that impression from the ending.
January 10, 2012
Great story. Epic fantasy plus a strong romance element, which was the one thing I always missed while reading epic fantasy. Very fun read!
September 3, 2016
Ambitious Series Debut Delivers
The hellish embers of a war waged centuries ago are once again being stirred into conflagration. The king of the Bane, a demon who kills humans and subsumes their souls, demands his son Icarus bring him a young woman named Ravyn. Only by taking her soul into him will he have the power to open the Abyss of Souls and command the Army of Souls within it. Only with Ravyn's power will he finally be unstoppable...unconquerable.
He must have Ravyn's soul to wipe the world of the last, persistently lingering traces of the Bringers, a race of people with the ability to destroy the Bane.
Sequestered from the world since birth and raised in an abbey, Ravyn has led a cold, relatively lonely life. Beaten and feared for the force she has inside her, she struggles to control the confusing flares of fire, a power she's been told - convinced - is proof of her inherent wickedness. And until she is faced with true evil, true wickedness, and feels the sting of it on her skin, feels the fire in her rise up to battle it, she is certain in her beliefs.
Being snatched by Icarus, the Bane king's son, however, as she flees a force of insidious corruption within the abbey and slips beyond the relative safety of sanctified ground, makes it clear that things are not as she's always believed. Ravyn smacks face-first into a destiny she could hardly conceive. With the help of the last full-blooded Bringer in the world, Rhys Blackwell, a man who rescues her from Icarus and opens her eyes to her true nature, Ravyn will stand on the precipice of war and serve as the fulcrum for a paradigm shift of world-altering proportions.
As the attraction between man and woman sparks like tinder and rages like wildfire, a proud but forgotten group of warriors will discover long-buried truths that serve to renew their purpose in the coming battle. It must. For if it cannot, if the Bringers falter in their destiny and duty, life - all life - will end and the Bane will rule forevermore.
~*~
If you're fond of series debuts with a lot going on and a hell of an introduction to a complex world, this exciting jump start to the Bringer and the Bane series shouldn't be missed. Set in a fantasy world that looks vaguely like medieval England in social structure, but ripe with the demon Bane and their magically gifted counterparts, Bringers (the demon/angel correlation is both obvious and acknowledged in a nicely concise way in the story), this book offers a lot to readers.
On the surface, it's a fully entertaining fantasy romance/paranormal romance book with two characters, Ravyn and Rhys, who are appealingly strong as the protagonists, and a cast of secondary and ancillary characters who are just flat-out fantastic. For that alone I would have enjoyed the book. It's what lies beneath the surface, though, and what has been woven into the book beside the main romance plot line, that offers the truest flashes of story excellence and the potential for series greatness.
This is a world with more than one face of evil, where those carrying the diluted bloodlines of supernatural protectors have become leaders grown fat off their own superiority, where human factions have questionable agendas and keep dangerous strengths carefully hidden. It's a world that has lost touch with its history, where ancestral knowledge and magic has slipped through the cracks formed by the relentlessness of time; a world so out of touch with reality that most live in a bubble of self-satisfied contentment that is nothing but a chimera, a gaping maw of sharp teeth hidden behind slack complacency. It's a world that needs to wake up, with a small band of protectors who are ready to do the waking and are just now starting to learn how.
The story potential in all that is as limitless and as imaginative as Brux's ability to dream it, conceive it, shape it, and create it.
I also give full credit to Brux for main characters Ravyn and Rhys. Both of them had backgrounds that were nicely fleshed out and their evolution through the book, particularly Ravyn's, was smooth on paper, but reflected a genuine sense of human nature in the back-and-forth confusion of action and reaction one would expect from someone in their situation. In short, they were perfectly plausible.
That's not to say I didn't want to clobber Rhys more than once for his persistent chauvinism and over-inflated hero complex, because I so did, but he is definitely a product of his past and his nature. One of my favorite moments in the book, too, is Ravyn's initial reaction to her first encounter with a horde of Bane following the massive shift in her understanding of herself and the world around her. This innocent, quietly raised young woman reacts swiftly and negatively. This is not the life she wants, being a warrior is not a job she thinks she can do, and she intends to let Rhys go on without her. I loved that.
Hey, don't get me wrong, my preference in heroines may be the sort that kicks ass and doesn't bother taking names, has control of her destiny and her power, and knows herself inside and out, but if you're going to give me one that's led a cloistered, secluded, more than vaguely abusive life from birth, then yeah - Ravyn's reaction fit her frame of mind and her situation at that moment perfectly. Of course, she does change her mind after the initial terror of the battle wears off (wouldn't be much of a book otherwise), and she does have her moments later in the book that are in the general vicinity of ass kicking, but that initial reaction was spot-on proof of some of the touches of awesomeness that this book offers.
I have to admit, I didn't think the romance between Ravyn and Rhys was terribly complex or unique. She's an innocent, he's an over-thinker with a misguided idea of protect-and-serve, and the conflict in the relationship revolves around those two facts. I think the romance was probably the most predictable and pedestrian element of the entire book. Satisfying for a romance lover like myself, with plenty of chemistry and some hot sex, but fairly average for the genre.
Icarus, on the other hand, was nothing close to average in any way, shape, or form. Son of Vile, the Bane king, Icarus was a puzzle wrapped in an enigma. Easy to hate for his crimes, which are, admittedly, expansive and vile (no pun intended), there's still something about him that screams for redemption. He's not like other Bane, and that major plot point is what held me most captivated by this book.
I am a total sucker for redemption threads and anti-heroes. I love them. Give me a flawed, broken character or a bad-guy-does-good and I yearn for their triumph over the darkness that coils through their souls. Icarus embodies all of that and more. Is he a bad guy? Oh, yeah. And the good guys loathe him and want him dead. Are his motives murky and self-serving? Absolutely. All evidence points that way, at least. But there's just something about him that drew my attention and kept it, and every glorious glimmer of the slightest difference between him and other Bane was savored and studied. I loved him. I want more of him. More of the series, certainly, but definitely more of Icarus.
I do feel the need to warn readers about one thing. Shield of Fire may annoy or frustrate those who prefer their books to be wrapped up in a tidy bow at the end. There's no cliff hanger - I hate those - but the only plot thread that truly reaches a conclusion is the romance thread, and even that conclusion left me with a lingering sense that the story between Ravyn and Rhys wasn't quite done being told. I hope that's the case, actually, as Ravyn seems to be a fairly large factor in the war brewing between the Bane and the Bringers and I still have a lot of questions about her past and her identity. But that's exactly my point.
The sheer number of plot threads left dangling at the end of this book make party streamers seem understated. They're everywhere. So, too, are the unanswered questions. Nothing much is really resolved, concluded, discovered, or revealed in this book beyond the most basic elements. No, I'm not complaining. I actually enjoy series that lay down questions and conflicts at the beginning and answer/resolve them throughout the series arc. It doesn't bother me at all that so few of my questions are answered at the end of this book. I know it bugs some readers, though, and I wanted to mention it.
My personal caveat, and I do have one, lies elsewhere. Now that the world has been established, mythos created, characters introduced, and history fleshed out, some of those danglies and unanswereds need to start getting resolved/answered very soon. The appeal of future books in the series will depend on that for me.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was received from the author for review. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
The hellish embers of a war waged centuries ago are once again being stirred into conflagration. The king of the Bane, a demon who kills humans and subsumes their souls, demands his son Icarus bring him a young woman named Ravyn. Only by taking her soul into him will he have the power to open the Abyss of Souls and command the Army of Souls within it. Only with Ravyn's power will he finally be unstoppable...unconquerable.
He must have Ravyn's soul to wipe the world of the last, persistently lingering traces of the Bringers, a race of people with the ability to destroy the Bane.
Sequestered from the world since birth and raised in an abbey, Ravyn has led a cold, relatively lonely life. Beaten and feared for the force she has inside her, she struggles to control the confusing flares of fire, a power she's been told - convinced - is proof of her inherent wickedness. And until she is faced with true evil, true wickedness, and feels the sting of it on her skin, feels the fire in her rise up to battle it, she is certain in her beliefs.
Being snatched by Icarus, the Bane king's son, however, as she flees a force of insidious corruption within the abbey and slips beyond the relative safety of sanctified ground, makes it clear that things are not as she's always believed. Ravyn smacks face-first into a destiny she could hardly conceive. With the help of the last full-blooded Bringer in the world, Rhys Blackwell, a man who rescues her from Icarus and opens her eyes to her true nature, Ravyn will stand on the precipice of war and serve as the fulcrum for a paradigm shift of world-altering proportions.
As the attraction between man and woman sparks like tinder and rages like wildfire, a proud but forgotten group of warriors will discover long-buried truths that serve to renew their purpose in the coming battle. It must. For if it cannot, if the Bringers falter in their destiny and duty, life - all life - will end and the Bane will rule forevermore.
~*~
If you're fond of series debuts with a lot going on and a hell of an introduction to a complex world, this exciting jump start to the Bringer and the Bane series shouldn't be missed. Set in a fantasy world that looks vaguely like medieval England in social structure, but ripe with the demon Bane and their magically gifted counterparts, Bringers (the demon/angel correlation is both obvious and acknowledged in a nicely concise way in the story), this book offers a lot to readers.
On the surface, it's a fully entertaining fantasy romance/paranormal romance book with two characters, Ravyn and Rhys, who are appealingly strong as the protagonists, and a cast of secondary and ancillary characters who are just flat-out fantastic. For that alone I would have enjoyed the book. It's what lies beneath the surface, though, and what has been woven into the book beside the main romance plot line, that offers the truest flashes of story excellence and the potential for series greatness.
This is a world with more than one face of evil, where those carrying the diluted bloodlines of supernatural protectors have become leaders grown fat off their own superiority, where human factions have questionable agendas and keep dangerous strengths carefully hidden. It's a world that has lost touch with its history, where ancestral knowledge and magic has slipped through the cracks formed by the relentlessness of time; a world so out of touch with reality that most live in a bubble of self-satisfied contentment that is nothing but a chimera, a gaping maw of sharp teeth hidden behind slack complacency. It's a world that needs to wake up, with a small band of protectors who are ready to do the waking and are just now starting to learn how.
The story potential in all that is as limitless and as imaginative as Brux's ability to dream it, conceive it, shape it, and create it.
I also give full credit to Brux for main characters Ravyn and Rhys. Both of them had backgrounds that were nicely fleshed out and their evolution through the book, particularly Ravyn's, was smooth on paper, but reflected a genuine sense of human nature in the back-and-forth confusion of action and reaction one would expect from someone in their situation. In short, they were perfectly plausible.
That's not to say I didn't want to clobber Rhys more than once for his persistent chauvinism and over-inflated hero complex, because I so did, but he is definitely a product of his past and his nature. One of my favorite moments in the book, too, is Ravyn's initial reaction to her first encounter with a horde of Bane following the massive shift in her understanding of herself and the world around her. This innocent, quietly raised young woman reacts swiftly and negatively. This is not the life she wants, being a warrior is not a job she thinks she can do, and she intends to let Rhys go on without her. I loved that.
Hey, don't get me wrong, my preference in heroines may be the sort that kicks ass and doesn't bother taking names, has control of her destiny and her power, and knows herself inside and out, but if you're going to give me one that's led a cloistered, secluded, more than vaguely abusive life from birth, then yeah - Ravyn's reaction fit her frame of mind and her situation at that moment perfectly. Of course, she does change her mind after the initial terror of the battle wears off (wouldn't be much of a book otherwise), and she does have her moments later in the book that are in the general vicinity of ass kicking, but that initial reaction was spot-on proof of some of the touches of awesomeness that this book offers.
I have to admit, I didn't think the romance between Ravyn and Rhys was terribly complex or unique. She's an innocent, he's an over-thinker with a misguided idea of protect-and-serve, and the conflict in the relationship revolves around those two facts. I think the romance was probably the most predictable and pedestrian element of the entire book. Satisfying for a romance lover like myself, with plenty of chemistry and some hot sex, but fairly average for the genre.
Icarus, on the other hand, was nothing close to average in any way, shape, or form. Son of Vile, the Bane king, Icarus was a puzzle wrapped in an enigma. Easy to hate for his crimes, which are, admittedly, expansive and vile (no pun intended), there's still something about him that screams for redemption. He's not like other Bane, and that major plot point is what held me most captivated by this book.
I am a total sucker for redemption threads and anti-heroes. I love them. Give me a flawed, broken character or a bad-guy-does-good and I yearn for their triumph over the darkness that coils through their souls. Icarus embodies all of that and more. Is he a bad guy? Oh, yeah. And the good guys loathe him and want him dead. Are his motives murky and self-serving? Absolutely. All evidence points that way, at least. But there's just something about him that drew my attention and kept it, and every glorious glimmer of the slightest difference between him and other Bane was savored and studied. I loved him. I want more of him. More of the series, certainly, but definitely more of Icarus.
I do feel the need to warn readers about one thing. Shield of Fire may annoy or frustrate those who prefer their books to be wrapped up in a tidy bow at the end. There's no cliff hanger - I hate those - but the only plot thread that truly reaches a conclusion is the romance thread, and even that conclusion left me with a lingering sense that the story between Ravyn and Rhys wasn't quite done being told. I hope that's the case, actually, as Ravyn seems to be a fairly large factor in the war brewing between the Bane and the Bringers and I still have a lot of questions about her past and her identity. But that's exactly my point.
The sheer number of plot threads left dangling at the end of this book make party streamers seem understated. They're everywhere. So, too, are the unanswered questions. Nothing much is really resolved, concluded, discovered, or revealed in this book beyond the most basic elements. No, I'm not complaining. I actually enjoy series that lay down questions and conflicts at the beginning and answer/resolve them throughout the series arc. It doesn't bother me at all that so few of my questions are answered at the end of this book. I know it bugs some readers, though, and I wanted to mention it.
My personal caveat, and I do have one, lies elsewhere. Now that the world has been established, mythos created, characters introduced, and history fleshed out, some of those danglies and unanswereds need to start getting resolved/answered very soon. The appeal of future books in the series will depend on that for me.
Disclosure: An ARC of this book was received from the author for review. This rating, review, and all included thoughts and comments are my own.
~*~*~*~
Reviewed for One Good Book Deserves Another.
February 13, 2013
The book is written in both the main characters pov's but also in the villains pov as well. So it was interesting to see what was going on behind the scenes before an attack happens. There is quite a bit of action in this book considering that Rhys is a shield/protector, so he's always battling the Bane/demons. As well as the fact that Ravyn has managed to gain the Bane King's unwavering interest. I liked that the danger that's presented in the beginning of the book is present throughout the entire story. You never get swept up into the romance and forget about the danger that's going on around them.
I like the world that the author created. We have a historical paranormal romance with chunks of adventure in it. I found myself not only liking the main characters but the side characters as well. Ravyn is a strong female character. She's new to the whole paranormal world since she's been living in an abbey the entire time. She's never left the sacred grounds until the night her friend is murdered and she escapes the same fate by running away, only to run into the hands of a Bane. A creature that she thought was just a myth. However, she's saved by Ryhs and taken under his protection only to find out that Bringers also exist as well. She doesn't fight the news and in fact becomes an asset to Ryhs on a couple of occasions when it comes to fighting the Bane.
Ryhs is a 300 year old Bringer. He's been fighting the Bane a lot time and is actually the only full blooded Bringer left. So when he comes across a young woman who isn't exactly human, he's intrigued to figure out what exactly she is. There's no way she can be a full blooded Bringer since they were all killed off centuries ago but she harnesses more power than he does. Since the Bane seem to have their sights set on Ravyn, he takes on the task to keep her safe.
Heck even the Bane, Icarus, is a big part in the story. He's the second in command of all Bane and his father is the ruler. He's sick and tired of being under his father's rule. He's ready to take over but he has to get the timing just right, otherwise it won't end so well for him. So when his father orders him to retrieve Ravyn, he decides to figure out why and take her for himself.
Like I said, all the characters in this story have a backbone. None of them were one dimensional. We even meet Rhys' best friend Luc who is a womanizer but is also very loyal to both Rhys and Ravyn. As well as a crew member named Jaden. Who, has a little bit of evil taint but proves that they will protect their comrades when the time comes.
There were some parts in the story that were predictable but there were also a handful of surprises that I didn't see coming as well. I wish the cover were different only because Rhys has long black hair... not a buzz cut. But overall I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next book in the series.
I like the world that the author created. We have a historical paranormal romance with chunks of adventure in it. I found myself not only liking the main characters but the side characters as well. Ravyn is a strong female character. She's new to the whole paranormal world since she's been living in an abbey the entire time. She's never left the sacred grounds until the night her friend is murdered and she escapes the same fate by running away, only to run into the hands of a Bane. A creature that she thought was just a myth. However, she's saved by Ryhs and taken under his protection only to find out that Bringers also exist as well. She doesn't fight the news and in fact becomes an asset to Ryhs on a couple of occasions when it comes to fighting the Bane.
Ryhs is a 300 year old Bringer. He's been fighting the Bane a lot time and is actually the only full blooded Bringer left. So when he comes across a young woman who isn't exactly human, he's intrigued to figure out what exactly she is. There's no way she can be a full blooded Bringer since they were all killed off centuries ago but she harnesses more power than he does. Since the Bane seem to have their sights set on Ravyn, he takes on the task to keep her safe.
Heck even the Bane, Icarus, is a big part in the story. He's the second in command of all Bane and his father is the ruler. He's sick and tired of being under his father's rule. He's ready to take over but he has to get the timing just right, otherwise it won't end so well for him. So when his father orders him to retrieve Ravyn, he decides to figure out why and take her for himself.
Like I said, all the characters in this story have a backbone. None of them were one dimensional. We even meet Rhys' best friend Luc who is a womanizer but is also very loyal to both Rhys and Ravyn. As well as a crew member named Jaden. Who, has a little bit of evil taint but proves that they will protect their comrades when the time comes.
There were some parts in the story that were predictable but there were also a handful of surprises that I didn't see coming as well. I wish the cover were different only because Rhys has long black hair... not a buzz cut. But overall I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next book in the series.
January 8, 2013
Rating: 3 to 3.5 stars
I was given a copy for an honest review (though later I had to buy a copy to get it to play on my ereader. XD) But still an honest review.
This is your standard fair PR. It wasn't ground breaking but most PR's aren't. That wasn't my issue with this book.
I liked the main couple. The fact that this is set somewhat in the past is a bit novel. The Bane vs Bringer thing wasn't really explained all that well -- I wish the author had done more to distinct the two. This would've done so much more for the book when it started in this character a Bane or a Bringer. I hate having to stop and look back to remember which are which.
The reason I give this book 3 to 3.5 stars is that EBIL doers. This is a HUGE drawback to this book. This book is meant to be a PR romance. Okay. So, why is the first scene in the first chapter of this book not about one or the other of the MCs?
Why is there ANY scenes in the POV of the EBIL doers? I'd wonder about a romance if there was just one but the author felt it necessary to keep jumping back to the EBIL doers. I'm not reading the book for them. They're just the bicycle ride to the HEA ending I want.
Of course, if that were all... No, these EBIL doers (notice the EBIL is there for a reason) are ridiculous. They are like the frankenwenie of all the cliche and terrible EBIL doers in the last 100 years. Literally (in this case, haha!)
The king of Hell or whatever has a thrown made up the dead bones of his fallen enemies and he has three nekked women all writhing at his feet. I guess that's all for the betterment of the King. We're told he has done nothing in 300 or so years since killing a whole lot of his enemies. These EBIL doers are just basking in his awe like 12 year old Bieber fans.
I mean, here when Obama made the order to kill Osama, he was being challenged that same day. I'd somehow expect the minions of Hell to be a little more, er, devious, than the Republican Party. *shrug*
I was given a copy for an honest review (though later I had to buy a copy to get it to play on my ereader. XD) But still an honest review.
This is your standard fair PR. It wasn't ground breaking but most PR's aren't. That wasn't my issue with this book.
I liked the main couple. The fact that this is set somewhat in the past is a bit novel. The Bane vs Bringer thing wasn't really explained all that well -- I wish the author had done more to distinct the two. This would've done so much more for the book when it started in this character a Bane or a Bringer. I hate having to stop and look back to remember which are which.
The reason I give this book 3 to 3.5 stars is that EBIL doers. This is a HUGE drawback to this book. This book is meant to be a PR romance. Okay. So, why is the first scene in the first chapter of this book not about one or the other of the MCs?
Why is there ANY scenes in the POV of the EBIL doers? I'd wonder about a romance if there was just one but the author felt it necessary to keep jumping back to the EBIL doers. I'm not reading the book for them. They're just the bicycle ride to the HEA ending I want.
Of course, if that were all... No, these EBIL doers (notice the EBIL is there for a reason) are ridiculous. They are like the frankenwenie of all the cliche and terrible EBIL doers in the last 100 years. Literally (in this case, haha!)
The king of Hell or whatever has a thrown made up the dead bones of his fallen enemies and he has three nekked women all writhing at his feet. I guess that's all for the betterment of the King. We're told he has done nothing in 300 or so years since killing a whole lot of his enemies. These EBIL doers are just basking in his awe like 12 year old Bieber fans.
I mean, here when Obama made the order to kill Osama, he was being challenged that same day. I'd somehow expect the minions of Hell to be a little more, er, devious, than the Republican Party. *shrug*
August 3, 2016
3.5 Stars!
Ravyn has never left the abbey of the Sisters from The Order of the Saints and she has always known she was different, but she never knew why. Till that night she went looking for her friend and found her murdered, she gets attacked by a monk, escaped the monastery, almost taken by a demon, Icarus, and rescued by Rhys.
Rhys is a full-blooded Bringer, a protector of human against Bane or demon, upon realizing Ravyn was a Bringer like him, needed to protect her and train her of her power... at the same time fighting the attraction he feels deeply for her.
Meanwhile, the Demon King wants Ravyn for her growing power and he will not stop until he will have her.
Ravyn's character slowly develop from innocent to bold and fearless... She'd chosen to be with Rhys and help him fight.
Rhys is a warrior, all hot and sexy but with stubborn mindset. He believes to fully do his obligation as a Bringer he could not get involved.
The story starts off in full on action and suspense that got me hooked right away.... The history about the Bringer and the Bane is intriguing... And other characters of the book added humour to the story. You would definitely love Luc. And I'm curious about Jaden too.
The plot is full of mystique which really is quite interesting...
That said, somewhere along the way, the pacing of the story slowed and just drag a bit, though it did pick up after. There is a lot of action that kept me at the edge of my seat.... and though this is a romance novel, the romance part only did it for me near the end... so I find it lacking.
All in all, I think it was good! Written in multi POV.
Ravyn has never left the abbey of the Sisters from The Order of the Saints and she has always known she was different, but she never knew why. Till that night she went looking for her friend and found her murdered, she gets attacked by a monk, escaped the monastery, almost taken by a demon, Icarus, and rescued by Rhys.
Rhys is a full-blooded Bringer, a protector of human against Bane or demon, upon realizing Ravyn was a Bringer like him, needed to protect her and train her of her power... at the same time fighting the attraction he feels deeply for her.
Meanwhile, the Demon King wants Ravyn for her growing power and he will not stop until he will have her.
Ravyn's character slowly develop from innocent to bold and fearless... She'd chosen to be with Rhys and help him fight.
Rhys is a warrior, all hot and sexy but with stubborn mindset. He believes to fully do his obligation as a Bringer he could not get involved.
The story starts off in full on action and suspense that got me hooked right away.... The history about the Bringer and the Bane is intriguing... And other characters of the book added humour to the story. You would definitely love Luc. And I'm curious about Jaden too.
The plot is full of mystique which really is quite interesting...
That said, somewhere along the way, the pacing of the story slowed and just drag a bit, though it did pick up after. There is a lot of action that kept me at the edge of my seat.... and though this is a romance novel, the romance part only did it for me near the end... so I find it lacking.
All in all, I think it was good! Written in multi POV.
December 30, 2012
At first I had a little trouble getting into the story. I don't know why as it was well written, but I'm glad I stayed with it because it got really good. This story has everything from demons, to sirens, to magic, to castles, to warriors astride horses. I like how even though it never comes out and says it, the events in the book could be happening during medieval times on Earth or a fictional place like Middle Earth. It also avoids the trap of using cheesy made up names as I often see in books set in a medieval-like setting. The setting is not important, but the overall story is.
It was also enjoyable to read about a strong female character who wasn't making stupid choices for the sake of the story. I felt more like Rayvn was driving the story and not the story driving her. I'm so tired of authors writing their characters into making blatantly stupid decisions to make things happen in the plot. Luckily Boone did not stoop to this easy out.
All of the characters were well developed and likable, even Icarus who is a demon. The author created a story that has depth and foreshadowing of things to come in subsequent books. I can't wait as I want to know more about Luc, Icarus, Siban, and some of the Council members. I have the second book in this series and can't wait to start it.
It was also enjoyable to read about a strong female character who wasn't making stupid choices for the sake of the story. I felt more like Rayvn was driving the story and not the story driving her. I'm so tired of authors writing their characters into making blatantly stupid decisions to make things happen in the plot. Luckily Boone did not stoop to this easy out.
All of the characters were well developed and likable, even Icarus who is a demon. The author created a story that has depth and foreshadowing of things to come in subsequent books. I can't wait as I want to know more about Luc, Icarus, Siban, and some of the Council members. I have the second book in this series and can't wait to start it.
December 8, 2012
Note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I really hoped I would enjoy this story and I did! There was action, romance and suspense and it was an easy read
The book is about Ravyn and her discovery of who she is. She's lived a hard life at the abbey and is oblivious to how sheltered it's been all her life.
The demon Bane are a vicious force out to get her at all costs. Initially we're led to believe that it's just for the sick perversion of their kind but as the story unfolds, an entirely different revelation comes to the fore.
Rhys has been driven by honour and duty his entire life. He's consciously decided to keep others at a distance to avoid getting hurt. He's always felt alone until finding Ravyn. She catches him off guard and the two have an instant connection.
He helps Ravyn through the journey of discovering her true destiny and embracing it.
This book is well written, there's enough suspense to keep you reading and there's also the character growth of Ravyn
I really hoped I would enjoy this story and I did! There was action, romance and suspense and it was an easy read
The book is about Ravyn and her discovery of who she is. She's lived a hard life at the abbey and is oblivious to how sheltered it's been all her life.
The demon Bane are a vicious force out to get her at all costs. Initially we're led to believe that it's just for the sick perversion of their kind but as the story unfolds, an entirely different revelation comes to the fore.
Rhys has been driven by honour and duty his entire life. He's consciously decided to keep others at a distance to avoid getting hurt. He's always felt alone until finding Ravyn. She catches him off guard and the two have an instant connection.
He helps Ravyn through the journey of discovering her true destiny and embracing it.
This book is well written, there's enough suspense to keep you reading and there's also the character growth of Ravyn
June 10, 2012
This was my first Boone Brux novel, and I was very happy with the outcome! It was a refresing story that I absolutely enjoyed!
Boone built an exciting world, filled with both Bane and Bringer, with such emotion that I felt that I was fighting right along with Rayvn and Rhys. The budding romance that turned into raging love was a journey full of twists and turns, and always kept me on my toes. I was not bored at all with any part..it was also filled with rich humor (often provided by the superly hot Luc)...I read it in one sitting.
I can't wait to read the next installment of the Bringer and Bane, which I hope will be about Luc and Jade....(keeping my finger crossed!
Boone built an exciting world, filled with both Bane and Bringer, with such emotion that I felt that I was fighting right along with Rayvn and Rhys. The budding romance that turned into raging love was a journey full of twists and turns, and always kept me on my toes. I was not bored at all with any part..it was also filled with rich humor (often provided by the superly hot Luc)...I read it in one sitting.
I can't wait to read the next installment of the Bringer and Bane, which I hope will be about Luc and Jade....(keeping my finger crossed!
June 14, 2012
about 32% through book but am really enjoying it to the point where I have to remind myself to go to bed! Romance is just starting, some idea where the story is going but I think it could still go so many ways. Will rewrite review when finished with book but at this point--highly recommend!
Finished this just the other day. It was very good--great characters, loved the tension--most surprising to me was the fact that I didn't see the twists coming. I will be moving on to the second in this series. Great job, Boone.
Finished this just the other day. It was very good--great characters, loved the tension--most surprising to me was the fact that I didn't see the twists coming. I will be moving on to the second in this series. Great job, Boone.
December 31, 2012
I have to say that I was skeptical at first when I picked up this book, but I was pleasantly surprised.I LOVED IT. The characters were so believable and sort of come to life from the pages. Right from the beginning it was filled with excitement and just kept building all the way to the end. I am so looking forward to Ms. Brux 2nd novel in this series and more future novels from this new author.
November 17, 2012
It took a few pages to get into this book, but I gave it a chance and it was worth it! I can't wait to read the next book!
December 5, 2012
Great action and even better storyline! Loved it and will definitely read it again!
January 10, 2013
Awesome!Thrilling! Won #1 and #2 read in 2 days. Could not put them down! Wanting to read more!!! Thanks Great Books!!!!
March 15, 2013
I absolutely Loved this book can't w8 to read the next 1i will defo be telling my friends about this book
February 25, 2020
A medieval-type world where Bringer warriors battle the Bane demons.
After being attacked by an evil monk, Ravyn is forced to flee from the Abby that she lived in all her life into an unknown world. But as soon as she leaves the holy ground she is attack by a Demon Bane that the priest had been giving her to. Fortunately Rhys, the last true blood Bringer, was hunting that very demon and rescues her.
For a warrior, Rhys is a gentle, compassionate man, dedicated to his mission to fight the demons. I like him. But he’s still an idiot and needs to realize that women can fight. I’m glad Ravyn’s taken up that cause. Not sure about her. She’s an odd combinations of innocence, bravery and power. I really like Willa though and Nattie. Both great female characters.
Fave scenes: Ravyn talking to Willa, Orvis’s gift to Ravyn, buying the bird and Rhys arrival at the Shadow World.
After being attacked by an evil monk, Ravyn is forced to flee from the Abby that she lived in all her life into an unknown world. But as soon as she leaves the holy ground she is attack by a Demon Bane that the priest had been giving her to. Fortunately Rhys, the last true blood Bringer, was hunting that very demon and rescues her.
For a warrior, Rhys is a gentle, compassionate man, dedicated to his mission to fight the demons. I like him. But he’s still an idiot and needs to realize that women can fight. I’m glad Ravyn’s taken up that cause. Not sure about her. She’s an odd combinations of innocence, bravery and power. I really like Willa though and Nattie. Both great female characters.
Fave scenes: Ravyn talking to Willa, Orvis’s gift to Ravyn, buying the bird and Rhys arrival at the Shadow World.
December 18, 2020
Overall I fell this book is OK but I wasn't left wanting to read the next book. My main issue was the lead female, i just didn't connect with her at any level and therefore wasn't invested in what happened to her. The storyline itself is interesting but I feel it needs more development to really grab you as a reader.
October 14, 2013
Originally posted at http://www.bookchickcity.com/2013/02/...
Shield of Fire begins in the middle of the action: at an abbey where Ravyn is being attacked by the Bane of the title, but we are not bombarded with information which might be confusing. On the contrary, in many ways it is a story we’ve all read before: Ravyn is, at least at first, the damsel in distress who needs the big, brave man to come and save her.
Ravyn’s character develops pretty quickly in the process of the novel, but this doesn’t feel rushed: she just seamlessly adapts from a sheltered, child-like girl into a mature woman who is in charge of her own destiny. In the end, I am happy to say that, in between having to be saved by the hero and saving a ship-load of men almost single handed, Ravyn becomes a pretty kick-arse heroine.
Other characters are interesting as well: although Ravyn is the focus of the story, we get to see into other characters’ heads. Icarus, for example, who is a villain of the piece (we find that out pretty quickly so it’s not a spoiler, don’t worry) is really thought-provoking. He is a typical villain in many ways, but his ability to empathise is one we more often see in heroines/heroes, so it was a change to see a ‘bad guy’ with the skill and that, along with other things, definitely made me want to find out more about the character. Luc, the heroes best friend, is charming and drives the romantic plot of Shield of Fire along, but it’s obvious that his main function is being set up as the hero in the next book in the series.
And now we come to Rhys, our hero. You would perhaps think that he is one of the first people I would like to talk about but, alas, he is one of the aspects of the story that falls victim to cliché. He is handsome, brave and there is not much else to say about him apart from that he has an annoying propensity to hold Ravyn at arms length to ‘protect’ her. There is a bit of a reveal about him towards the end of the book, but I hadn’t really worked up the connection with him to make me care about it. I might even go so far as to say that Rhys is there mainly to help Ravyn develop into herself. They have a good flow of banter between them.
‘Are you trying to comfort or torment me?’
‘Sweet talk has always eluded me.’
and things that Rhys says often influence Ravyn to do something she wouldn’t otherwise have done.
The plot, although it was nothing startlingly new, kept me turning pages until the end. One of the things I found most interesting about the story was the world it took place in. I often find world-building bogs me down in a book, but in Shield of Fire we were offered just the right amount of information to prevent us from being confused. I do, however, have one issue with the world-building, which may be more my fault than the author’s. Although the novel has historical aspects, there were many instances in which the speech contained modern Americanisms including ‘Upside your head’, ‘crush’ and reference to ‘cent’. This could be explained by the fact that the novel is also fantasy, but I have to admit that the mixture of modern America and what appeared to be medieval Europe didn’t really work for me, personally.
VERDICT:
I was pleasantly surprised by Shield of Fire. The story sounded interesting from the start but I was somewhat worried about how it would be delivered: my fears were mostly unfounded however. Although there were elements of the novel that were slightly clichéd, the author kept it fresh by implementing a fantasy world that is well-explained, and – for the most part – credible. The only real complaint I have with the world-building is the frequent use of modern Americanisms in what is described as a ‘Historical fantasy romance’. I will definitely be reading the next in the series, as the author has already piqued my interest with her depictions of the characters. Overall, this was an enjoyable, quick read that refreshes an old story successfully. I enjoyed the fact that Ravyn was not ruled by any romantic feelings she might have had for the hero and made her own decisions and her own destiny.
Shield of Fire begins in the middle of the action: at an abbey where Ravyn is being attacked by the Bane of the title, but we are not bombarded with information which might be confusing. On the contrary, in many ways it is a story we’ve all read before: Ravyn is, at least at first, the damsel in distress who needs the big, brave man to come and save her.
Ravyn’s character develops pretty quickly in the process of the novel, but this doesn’t feel rushed: she just seamlessly adapts from a sheltered, child-like girl into a mature woman who is in charge of her own destiny. In the end, I am happy to say that, in between having to be saved by the hero and saving a ship-load of men almost single handed, Ravyn becomes a pretty kick-arse heroine.
Other characters are interesting as well: although Ravyn is the focus of the story, we get to see into other characters’ heads. Icarus, for example, who is a villain of the piece (we find that out pretty quickly so it’s not a spoiler, don’t worry) is really thought-provoking. He is a typical villain in many ways, but his ability to empathise is one we more often see in heroines/heroes, so it was a change to see a ‘bad guy’ with the skill and that, along with other things, definitely made me want to find out more about the character. Luc, the heroes best friend, is charming and drives the romantic plot of Shield of Fire along, but it’s obvious that his main function is being set up as the hero in the next book in the series.
And now we come to Rhys, our hero. You would perhaps think that he is one of the first people I would like to talk about but, alas, he is one of the aspects of the story that falls victim to cliché. He is handsome, brave and there is not much else to say about him apart from that he has an annoying propensity to hold Ravyn at arms length to ‘protect’ her. There is a bit of a reveal about him towards the end of the book, but I hadn’t really worked up the connection with him to make me care about it. I might even go so far as to say that Rhys is there mainly to help Ravyn develop into herself. They have a good flow of banter between them.
‘Are you trying to comfort or torment me?’
‘Sweet talk has always eluded me.’
and things that Rhys says often influence Ravyn to do something she wouldn’t otherwise have done.
The plot, although it was nothing startlingly new, kept me turning pages until the end. One of the things I found most interesting about the story was the world it took place in. I often find world-building bogs me down in a book, but in Shield of Fire we were offered just the right amount of information to prevent us from being confused. I do, however, have one issue with the world-building, which may be more my fault than the author’s. Although the novel has historical aspects, there were many instances in which the speech contained modern Americanisms including ‘Upside your head’, ‘crush’ and reference to ‘cent’. This could be explained by the fact that the novel is also fantasy, but I have to admit that the mixture of modern America and what appeared to be medieval Europe didn’t really work for me, personally.
VERDICT:
I was pleasantly surprised by Shield of Fire. The story sounded interesting from the start but I was somewhat worried about how it would be delivered: my fears were mostly unfounded however. Although there were elements of the novel that were slightly clichéd, the author kept it fresh by implementing a fantasy world that is well-explained, and – for the most part – credible. The only real complaint I have with the world-building is the frequent use of modern Americanisms in what is described as a ‘Historical fantasy romance’. I will definitely be reading the next in the series, as the author has already piqued my interest with her depictions of the characters. Overall, this was an enjoyable, quick read that refreshes an old story successfully. I enjoyed the fact that Ravyn was not ruled by any romantic feelings she might have had for the hero and made her own decisions and her own destiny.
April 27, 2013
Now this was a pretty awesome read and a lovely introduction into a new world that's just a little different from any I've ever read. Brux has a fabulous voice that pulled me in completely and had me so engaged in the story. Had me loving the characters and doing some full on pouting when real life got in the way of my reading and I had to put down my Nook for even a second. And oh baby she's got some yummeh covers on this series!
It did take me a little while to figure out what the characters actually...were. I knew they were touched with a bit of the paranormal and were "Bringers" but what that was? Not a clue. The basic gist is that Bringers are somewhat immortal Warriors that are here to battle the Demon Bane who attack humans. There's a magical element to them with them each having a supernatural twist of being a protector, being gifted with insight or healing. There's even a shifter element involved which I loved.
Rhys and Ravyn were fantastic leads and the support cast was amazing. Which is something I really appreciate in a story. I love that added oompf that they bring into the picture. What was so great about them all was not necessarily them (though they were all really entertaining and well written characters) but the way they way they interacted. They have such a great sarcastic/teasing/loving back and forth thing going on where you can really tell they all love each other. They're not one bit shy about giving each other hell and it's fantastic. I snorted with laughter more than once and couldn't help but smile over them all.
There wasn't much in the steamy department with this story outside of one big scene but damn it was a good scene and the chemistry and tension between Rhys and Ravyn was nice the rest of the time. Rhys is sexy and strong and just one of those drool worthy heroes. And Ravyn, even though an extremely sheltered and innocent heroine wasn't so in an annoying way. Know what I mean? It was really wonderful watching her grow and explore her new found freedom (she'd been basically a prisoner at a convent her entire life). I loved her reactions to things like seeing the ocean for the first time. It was just sweet and endearing and one of those things that could tear you up a little.
If you love rich and textured world building and stepping into a new world full of action, danger, humor and of course romance it's a great one to try out. I cannot freaking wait to read Luc's story. Omg he is delicious! Like your favorite chocolate treat that makes you deliriously happy even if you know it's not the best thing for you. Brux won me over with this one and I'm very much looking forward to reading a lot more from her in the future.
It did take me a little while to figure out what the characters actually...were. I knew they were touched with a bit of the paranormal and were "Bringers" but what that was? Not a clue. The basic gist is that Bringers are somewhat immortal Warriors that are here to battle the Demon Bane who attack humans. There's a magical element to them with them each having a supernatural twist of being a protector, being gifted with insight or healing. There's even a shifter element involved which I loved.
Rhys and Ravyn were fantastic leads and the support cast was amazing. Which is something I really appreciate in a story. I love that added oompf that they bring into the picture. What was so great about them all was not necessarily them (though they were all really entertaining and well written characters) but the way they way they interacted. They have such a great sarcastic/teasing/loving back and forth thing going on where you can really tell they all love each other. They're not one bit shy about giving each other hell and it's fantastic. I snorted with laughter more than once and couldn't help but smile over them all.
He swung his spiked head toward Luc and Siban.
The men fell back several yards as Rhys's tail thrashed and beat the ground.
Luc turned to Siban. "What in all saints' creation is that?"
"I believe that's a dragon."
They both stared at him for a moment, Luc's mouth hanging open. "Did you know?" he asked.
Siban shook his head. "I knew he was different, but,"-he pointed in a helpless gesture- "not this different."
Rhys finished his transformation and grinned, his lips pulling across his fangs. His forked tongue darted from his mouth, tasting his friends' fear. He took a step toward them.
Luc heald his hands in front of him. "Whoa, nice dragon."
Rhys snorted and a spiral of smoke emitted from his nostrils.
"You're my best friend, Rhys," Luc said. "But I would appreciate you pointing that in another direction."
There wasn't much in the steamy department with this story outside of one big scene but damn it was a good scene and the chemistry and tension between Rhys and Ravyn was nice the rest of the time. Rhys is sexy and strong and just one of those drool worthy heroes. And Ravyn, even though an extremely sheltered and innocent heroine wasn't so in an annoying way. Know what I mean? It was really wonderful watching her grow and explore her new found freedom (she'd been basically a prisoner at a convent her entire life). I loved her reactions to things like seeing the ocean for the first time. It was just sweet and endearing and one of those things that could tear you up a little.
If you love rich and textured world building and stepping into a new world full of action, danger, humor and of course romance it's a great one to try out. I cannot freaking wait to read Luc's story. Omg he is delicious! Like your favorite chocolate treat that makes you deliriously happy even if you know it's not the best thing for you. Brux won me over with this one and I'm very much looking forward to reading a lot more from her in the future.
January 14, 2013
GENRE: Fantasy
THEME: Paranormal/Romance
RECEIVED: Swap
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Shield of Fire follows Ravyn, a young woman who has grown up living in the Abbey with the sisters on a safe and guarded land. She grew up being told she was cursed, knowing she was different Ravyn tried to hide in the shadows amongst the sisters. Until a brother in Abbey tries to give her to a demon, one that she didn’t think existed and is now running for her life. Lucky for her she runs into a warrior who is known as a Bringer and is like her and ready to fight the demon who is after Ravyn, for more reasons now that he met her.
Ravyn is an innocent young woman who hasn’t really been in the outside world. When she escapes from the Abbey she learns about herself and that she isn’t the only one who is different. I liked her spunk, she was timid and scared when the readers first meet her in the Abbey but later she expresses her independence. When she meets Rhys, the warrior who saves her, Ravyn learns more about her abilities and that she’s a lot more powerful than anyone he’s ever met or heard of. In the end the readers will enjoy Ravyn’s development. Not only does she mature but also she has one interesting background that I had no idea was coming.
Rhys is a powerful warrior right when he’s introduced, fighting off a demon and saving a “damsel” in distress. Though he doesn’t expect Rayvn, she really connects with him and he instinctively gets protective of her. I loved how he changed through out the book; usually battling alone he gets to teach Ravyn about her heritage, which he believes his similar to him. He opens up to her, even if he is trying so hard not to give in to what his heart clearly wants. The readers also get to take a journey to him home, which I absolutely loved learning about the people living with him.
What is a Bringer? I loved how Brux created a group of people that have a unique ability and purpose. There is a lot of history that is crafted nicely into Ravyn and Rhys’ story. The power development was my favorite part, just to see what Rhys could do and what more Ravyn had inside her. What is the Bane? I don’t want to give away too much but the Bane but that he is a Demon, the super creepy Incarus is the first Demon the readers meet and he is horrible right off the bat. The world of the demons was focused on mostly with Incarus, who is someone who seems to be on his own quest for something. I’m interested to see what he has up his sleeves.
Romance, the pace was perfect for this type of story. I like when the characters feel that spark but don’t act on it right away. There is lots of tension, fun moments and of course some steamy moments. I enjoyed watching their love grow and in the end how everything turned out.
Overall this was a great start to a new paranormal series, the leads take the readers on a great journey, with some action, discovery, and wonderful romance. I do however wish I new more about the time this story was set was in, I felt a medieval vibe with warriors, monsters and hope to get more details in the second book. The secondary character brought some light and a lot of humor half way through the book that I was thrilled about. I can’t wait to see how Ravyn and Rhys develop in the next book with the focus on Luc and Jade who have a whole lot of love and hate.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is an adult novel with mature sexual content. Fans of Alyssa Day’s Warrior of Poseidon series and Gena Showalter Lords of the Underworld series will love Boone Brux’s Shield of Fire.
THEME: Paranormal/Romance
RECEIVED: Swap
BLOG: http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/
REVIEW:
Shield of Fire follows Ravyn, a young woman who has grown up living in the Abbey with the sisters on a safe and guarded land. She grew up being told she was cursed, knowing she was different Ravyn tried to hide in the shadows amongst the sisters. Until a brother in Abbey tries to give her to a demon, one that she didn’t think existed and is now running for her life. Lucky for her she runs into a warrior who is known as a Bringer and is like her and ready to fight the demon who is after Ravyn, for more reasons now that he met her.
Ravyn is an innocent young woman who hasn’t really been in the outside world. When she escapes from the Abbey she learns about herself and that she isn’t the only one who is different. I liked her spunk, she was timid and scared when the readers first meet her in the Abbey but later she expresses her independence. When she meets Rhys, the warrior who saves her, Ravyn learns more about her abilities and that she’s a lot more powerful than anyone he’s ever met or heard of. In the end the readers will enjoy Ravyn’s development. Not only does she mature but also she has one interesting background that I had no idea was coming.
Rhys is a powerful warrior right when he’s introduced, fighting off a demon and saving a “damsel” in distress. Though he doesn’t expect Rayvn, she really connects with him and he instinctively gets protective of her. I loved how he changed through out the book; usually battling alone he gets to teach Ravyn about her heritage, which he believes his similar to him. He opens up to her, even if he is trying so hard not to give in to what his heart clearly wants. The readers also get to take a journey to him home, which I absolutely loved learning about the people living with him.
What is a Bringer? I loved how Brux created a group of people that have a unique ability and purpose. There is a lot of history that is crafted nicely into Ravyn and Rhys’ story. The power development was my favorite part, just to see what Rhys could do and what more Ravyn had inside her. What is the Bane? I don’t want to give away too much but the Bane but that he is a Demon, the super creepy Incarus is the first Demon the readers meet and he is horrible right off the bat. The world of the demons was focused on mostly with Incarus, who is someone who seems to be on his own quest for something. I’m interested to see what he has up his sleeves.
Romance, the pace was perfect for this type of story. I like when the characters feel that spark but don’t act on it right away. There is lots of tension, fun moments and of course some steamy moments. I enjoyed watching their love grow and in the end how everything turned out.
Overall this was a great start to a new paranormal series, the leads take the readers on a great journey, with some action, discovery, and wonderful romance. I do however wish I new more about the time this story was set was in, I felt a medieval vibe with warriors, monsters and hope to get more details in the second book. The secondary character brought some light and a lot of humor half way through the book that I was thrilled about. I can’t wait to see how Ravyn and Rhys develop in the next book with the focus on Luc and Jade who have a whole lot of love and hate.
RECOMMENDATION:
This is an adult novel with mature sexual content. Fans of Alyssa Day’s Warrior of Poseidon series and Gena Showalter Lords of the Underworld series will love Boone Brux’s Shield of Fire.
July 28, 2011
Favorite Lines: The cavernous throne room loomed ahead. He slowed at the edge of the light that spilled from the archway. His stomach threatened to revolt as the pungent smell of rotting meat slapped him. Demons of every shape and size littered the chamber. They were a disgusting lot, fighting and fornicating like wild animals. Much like parasites, they pissed on and ate everything in sight.” (p. 38, egalley)
Boone Brux introduces us to her writing with her debut book Resurrection. The romantic fantasy follows Ravyn and Rhys as they fight to survive demons known as the Bane.
Resurrection is told in the third person bouncing from Ravyn, Rhys, the demon Icarus and Brother Powell’s point of views. It was interesting to read about the different characters. Brother Powell flickers from a constant evil to regretful, and back to greedy. Icarus is shown as a soul stealing demon, but later is shown to be insecure, devious and empathetic. I don’t really know what to think about him. Rhys is frustrating and Ravyn, well…she changed in many ways.
Ravyn is introduced as a convent raised girl with paranormal abilities. Capable of recognizing evilness, Ravyn knows little of carnal acts and is innocent. Within days that innocence is almost nonexistent. For example, early on she tells Rhys
“I guess I’m a little nervous. It’s just–I’ve never been completely alone with a man who wasn’t trying to kill me.”
A few pages later she reiterates
“I’ve never been alone with a man.”
By the time I was halfway through the book, the virgin sought out Rhys for sex. Yep, it was good sex which seemed to strip away her inhibitions. Gone was the innocent woman and in her place was a worldly woman. I’m sure it is meant to show Ravyn’s character growth, but it felt like a different person.
The whites of her eyes rounded as he pushed back the covers and stood, his naked body lit by the moon’s glow. She didn’t retreat. There was no place for embarrassment tonight–not with him–not ever.
Overall, Resurrection is the first book in a series. I would have liked it more if the romance had been pared back and given time to evolve. There was so much time away from Rhys and Ravyn that I didn’t feel the romance or sexual tension build. What I felt was the demons’ urgent desire to capture Ravyn and Rhys tension bleed away while in Ravyn’s presence. I felt Ravyn build friendships and her need to be loved. However, I knew she and Rhys would fall in love. I didn’t feel it happen.
Also, when I started reading the book I thought I was reading a historical romance with paranormal tones. I imagined the world as Earth, but I don’t know if that is what Brux intended. The Bringers (demon fighters) are from another plane of existence and we are never told what year or where the book is set. The setting and time didn’t really bother me though.
Biggest issue: Price. Wow…$17 for paper and $8 for ebook. Just wow.
Scooper Speaks
Boone Brux introduces us to her writing with her debut book Resurrection. The romantic fantasy follows Ravyn and Rhys as they fight to survive demons known as the Bane.
Resurrection is told in the third person bouncing from Ravyn, Rhys, the demon Icarus and Brother Powell’s point of views. It was interesting to read about the different characters. Brother Powell flickers from a constant evil to regretful, and back to greedy. Icarus is shown as a soul stealing demon, but later is shown to be insecure, devious and empathetic. I don’t really know what to think about him. Rhys is frustrating and Ravyn, well…she changed in many ways.
Ravyn is introduced as a convent raised girl with paranormal abilities. Capable of recognizing evilness, Ravyn knows little of carnal acts and is innocent. Within days that innocence is almost nonexistent. For example, early on she tells Rhys
“I guess I’m a little nervous. It’s just–I’ve never been completely alone with a man who wasn’t trying to kill me.”
A few pages later she reiterates
“I’ve never been alone with a man.”
By the time I was halfway through the book, the virgin sought out Rhys for sex. Yep, it was good sex which seemed to strip away her inhibitions. Gone was the innocent woman and in her place was a worldly woman. I’m sure it is meant to show Ravyn’s character growth, but it felt like a different person.
The whites of her eyes rounded as he pushed back the covers and stood, his naked body lit by the moon’s glow. She didn’t retreat. There was no place for embarrassment tonight–not with him–not ever.
Overall, Resurrection is the first book in a series. I would have liked it more if the romance had been pared back and given time to evolve. There was so much time away from Rhys and Ravyn that I didn’t feel the romance or sexual tension build. What I felt was the demons’ urgent desire to capture Ravyn and Rhys tension bleed away while in Ravyn’s presence. I felt Ravyn build friendships and her need to be loved. However, I knew she and Rhys would fall in love. I didn’t feel it happen.
Also, when I started reading the book I thought I was reading a historical romance with paranormal tones. I imagined the world as Earth, but I don’t know if that is what Brux intended. The Bringers (demon fighters) are from another plane of existence and we are never told what year or where the book is set. The setting and time didn’t really bother me though.
Biggest issue: Price. Wow…$17 for paper and $8 for ebook. Just wow.
Scooper Speaks
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