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Tiva Boon #1
Royal Guardian
The kingdom of Abennelp has enjoyed an age of peace. Tiva Boon, a loyal and ambitious Royal Guardian is determined to carry on tradition and become an elite protector to the throne. It is all she has ever wanted. Possessing abilities and strength beyond her age, Tiva dedicates her youth and risks her life in the service of her king to prove she is worthy. With her goal achieved and her destiny in motion, a mysterious off-world threat emerges and shatters everything Tiva holds dear.
Exiled from her home and running for her life, Tiva seeks asylum with the Union, a universal security force, and attempts to put the past behind her. Finding herself alone among various space faring races, Tiva integrates herself into the strange society using her skills as a protector and befriends several aliens she meets along the way, ones who will change her life forever.
When a message from those loyal to her king reaches her months after she feels safe in her new life, Tiva's destiny and the fate of her people collide.
Exiled from her home and running for her life, Tiva seeks asylum with the Union, a universal security force, and attempts to put the past behind her. Finding herself alone among various space faring races, Tiva integrates herself into the strange society using her skills as a protector and befriends several aliens she meets along the way, ones who will change her life forever.
When a message from those loyal to her king reaches her months after she feels safe in her new life, Tiva's destiny and the fate of her people collide.
456 pages, Paperback
First published July 8, 2014
13 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Jenn Nixon
32 books212 followersJenn’s love of writing started the year she received her first diary and Nancy Drew novel. Throughout her teenage years, she kept a diary of her personal thoughts and feelings but graduated from Nancy Drew to other mystery suspense novels.
Jenn often adds a thriller and suspense element to anything she writes be it Romance, Science Fiction, or Fantasy.
Jenn often adds a thriller and suspense element to anything she writes be it Romance, Science Fiction, or Fantasy.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 11, 2015
Tiva is one of the most innovatively crafted characters I have read in a long time. From her origins to what she becomes as an adult is a journey that is well worth investing in as a reader. In addition to Tiva a world and cast of characters has been built that rivals such iconic casts as any in a Tolkien or Rowling novel. Start to finish, as a reader, you are drawn along the plot with an ease that is not often found these days. Ms. Nixon has a honed her art into a skill and truly invested herself into her world and characters, building a story around them that is an intricate web of beauty, destruction, fear, and hope.
If I had to nitpick about one thing it is that a clear conclusion developed and Ms. Nixon chose to take the story beyond that point. Ultimately it could have ended there and whether it be a novella or the start of the second novel what proceeded beyond that natural end, could have been a new beginning. Nonetheless, as a reader, you are so quickly drawn back into the tale of Tiva’s continued transformation as a person, that you quickly find yourself at the author’s story end and only wish that there was more. Good news…there is: Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp
Hoping to have a review on that for you in the very near future.
If I had to nitpick about one thing it is that a clear conclusion developed and Ms. Nixon chose to take the story beyond that point. Ultimately it could have ended there and whether it be a novella or the start of the second novel what proceeded beyond that natural end, could have been a new beginning. Nonetheless, as a reader, you are so quickly drawn back into the tale of Tiva’s continued transformation as a person, that you quickly find yourself at the author’s story end and only wish that there was more. Good news…there is: Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp
Hoping to have a review on that for you in the very near future.
January 9, 2015
*** I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review ***
While I’m a huge fan of everything Paranormal/Fantasy I have to admit that Science Fiction is pretty new to me. My love of otherworldly beings typically runs the gamut of vampires, shifters & witches. Aliens and intergalactic wars are a foreign concept for me. But thanks to Ms. Nixon, I’m beginning to think this is a genre I should explore more of!
In many ways Tiva Boon has a futuristic feel to it, yet manages to combine an old english way of speaking and “old fashioned” morals/manners. It all works really well together though, so if you’re a fan of historical fiction and SciFi you’ll definitely want to get your hands on this book.
This was my first experience reading a book by Ms. Nixon but certainly not my last. The amount of detail put into Tiva’s story is nothing short of amazing. It did take me some time to become fully invested in the story because the beginning was kind of slow going, but once I was I went on a marathon reading session until I was done.
Tiva is quite badass. She’s had her mind set from a very young age that she wasn’t going to settle for just being a Royal Guardian. Nope, she was going to become an Elite Guardian for the King. Her strength, fighting skills, and quick thinking make her a perfect candidate and she achieves her goal, and sets quite the precedent being the first female to do so. She’s trusted right away with important missions and her insight and detection skills are highly valued, especially during such a chaotic time in the Kingdom. I don’t want to give away too much but I will say there is never a dull moment in Tiva’s world. We get plenty of action, drama, mystery, intrigue, suspense…you name it and you’ll find it in this novel.
My only issues were (1) sometimes the time lapses were confusing, and (2) I just could not for the life of me keep all the characters straight. Half the time I couldn’t remember who was who, but kept reading anyway. That’s probably more of a personal issue for me and not so much the authors fault. However, the most important (main) characters who were crucial to the story line stood out to me so that was all mattered. I was able to follow the plot twists so I don’t feel like I missed out on anything major.
All in all, great start to a new series and I’m very curious to see where book 2 leads!
While I’m a huge fan of everything Paranormal/Fantasy I have to admit that Science Fiction is pretty new to me. My love of otherworldly beings typically runs the gamut of vampires, shifters & witches. Aliens and intergalactic wars are a foreign concept for me. But thanks to Ms. Nixon, I’m beginning to think this is a genre I should explore more of!
In many ways Tiva Boon has a futuristic feel to it, yet manages to combine an old english way of speaking and “old fashioned” morals/manners. It all works really well together though, so if you’re a fan of historical fiction and SciFi you’ll definitely want to get your hands on this book.
This was my first experience reading a book by Ms. Nixon but certainly not my last. The amount of detail put into Tiva’s story is nothing short of amazing. It did take me some time to become fully invested in the story because the beginning was kind of slow going, but once I was I went on a marathon reading session until I was done.
Tiva is quite badass. She’s had her mind set from a very young age that she wasn’t going to settle for just being a Royal Guardian. Nope, she was going to become an Elite Guardian for the King. Her strength, fighting skills, and quick thinking make her a perfect candidate and she achieves her goal, and sets quite the precedent being the first female to do so. She’s trusted right away with important missions and her insight and detection skills are highly valued, especially during such a chaotic time in the Kingdom. I don’t want to give away too much but I will say there is never a dull moment in Tiva’s world. We get plenty of action, drama, mystery, intrigue, suspense…you name it and you’ll find it in this novel.
My only issues were (1) sometimes the time lapses were confusing, and (2) I just could not for the life of me keep all the characters straight. Half the time I couldn’t remember who was who, but kept reading anyway. That’s probably more of a personal issue for me and not so much the authors fault. However, the most important (main) characters who were crucial to the story line stood out to me so that was all mattered. I was able to follow the plot twists so I don’t feel like I missed out on anything major.
All in all, great start to a new series and I’m very curious to see where book 2 leads!
February 3, 2019
Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian is a novel I probably would have never discovered, except it was on sale and advertised in one of my newsletters. The complexity and storytelling are what captured my interest (and held it) through this lengthy read. A lot happens, and the genre scope is large (fantasy, sci-fi, medieval, space opera, bounty hunters) but the writer adds plenty of twists and turns to give the reader an engrossing storyline.
November 18, 2015
Just to get it out of the way, Tiva Boon is something of a Mary Sue. But that's such a staple of YA Fiction that, if it's your favorite genre, you probably won't be bothered by it. So I won't dwell on it.
This book features several characters in a detailed social structure. However, many of the characters are so flat that it's hard to tell them apart. Or to care if/when they die. Giving them names made me feel like I should know who they are, but there wasn't much else to hold on to.
Two thirds of the way through, the story undergoes a very profound change. So much so that I wondered why the book didn't end there with the remainder being used for the sequel. Maybe make a trilogy of it. So I spent the last third wondering how it was going to tie back into the first two thirds. Or if maybe the first part was a disproportionately long-winded back story. The pacing during that time was rather janky, so it seemed plausible.
What the last part of the story did bring was a collection of characters who were well developed entirely on their own merits, regardless of their importance to Tiva's character development. It also brought better pacing and dialog, and the occasional feeling that the author was glossing over things in a rush to get to the next moment was gone. If the rest of the book had been more of this, it would have been 4 stars easily. Probably even 5.
As such, I'm optimistic for the sequel. The growing pains, it would seem, have passed.
This book features several characters in a detailed social structure. However, many of the characters are so flat that it's hard to tell them apart. Or to care if/when they die. Giving them names made me feel like I should know who they are, but there wasn't much else to hold on to.
Two thirds of the way through, the story undergoes a very profound change. So much so that I wondered why the book didn't end there with the remainder being used for the sequel. Maybe make a trilogy of it. So I spent the last third wondering how it was going to tie back into the first two thirds. Or if maybe the first part was a disproportionately long-winded back story. The pacing during that time was rather janky, so it seemed plausible.
What the last part of the story did bring was a collection of characters who were well developed entirely on their own merits, regardless of their importance to Tiva's character development. It also brought better pacing and dialog, and the occasional feeling that the author was glossing over things in a rush to get to the next moment was gone. If the rest of the book had been more of this, it would have been 4 stars easily. Probably even 5.
As such, I'm optimistic for the sequel. The growing pains, it would seem, have passed.
July 20, 2014
A Copy of this Book Was Given To Me By The Author In Exchange For An Honest Review*
The synopsis only scratches the surface of this work, obviously the first in an exciting series. We follow Tiva from her birth (do carefully read the prologue), through her early teenage years to achieving her goal of becoming a member of the elite Royal Guard.
As I have previously found with this author the tale is well constructed and the characters developed well. My only complaint is surprizing when one considers just how many books the she has written. They will not affect your enjoyment of the book, and anyone reading quickly will probably not notice, but it is riddled with minor errors that should have been picked up and corrected before publication. As most of them are simple ‘typos’, e.g. ‘warm’ where you will read it as the correct ‘warn’ they will not affect your enjoyment.
In spite of that, this is a five star work and you will enjoy it. The first part will seem more like a medieval historical adventure tale than sci-fi, but be patient: you will get your fill of spaceships, modern weapons and battles later.
Like me you will look forward to the next instalment of Tiva’s adventures.
Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
The synopsis only scratches the surface of this work, obviously the first in an exciting series. We follow Tiva from her birth (do carefully read the prologue), through her early teenage years to achieving her goal of becoming a member of the elite Royal Guard.
As I have previously found with this author the tale is well constructed and the characters developed well. My only complaint is surprizing when one considers just how many books the she has written. They will not affect your enjoyment of the book, and anyone reading quickly will probably not notice, but it is riddled with minor errors that should have been picked up and corrected before publication. As most of them are simple ‘typos’, e.g. ‘warm’ where you will read it as the correct ‘warn’ they will not affect your enjoyment.
In spite of that, this is a five star work and you will enjoy it. The first part will seem more like a medieval historical adventure tale than sci-fi, but be patient: you will get your fill of spaceships, modern weapons and battles later.
Like me you will look forward to the next instalment of Tiva’s adventures.
Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng ***
September 25, 2015
A young girl is born to the king on the distant world of Abennelp. Another child is born alongside her but dies. The king orders his daughter be given in secret to the dead child's parents while the queen is told her own child perish.
That baby grows up to be Tiva Boon, daughter of a long line of Guardians to the King. Tiva is ambitious and tenacious and becomes the first female Guardian, the most elite of the king's protectors. Over time, as Tiva rises through the ranks, a growing rebellion sweeps Abennelp. Tiva is willing to fight to the death for her king, who takes a special in her. The reader knows why even if Tiva never learns.
Jenn Nixon tells a story in three parts, beginning with Tiva on Abennelp. The the kingdom falls and alien influence becomes clear, she flees to another world that adopts her and helps her join the Union, an intergalactic entity that spans galaxies but only has a handful of member worlds.
The series has been described as Game of Thrones meets Star Trek, but the novel has a YA feel. If it has a shortcoming, it's that the space opera elements do not really enter the story until about halfway through. Beyond that, Tiva is a compelling protagonist, and Nixon lays enough eggs to hatch later on in the series. This is one worth watching.
That baby grows up to be Tiva Boon, daughter of a long line of Guardians to the King. Tiva is ambitious and tenacious and becomes the first female Guardian, the most elite of the king's protectors. Over time, as Tiva rises through the ranks, a growing rebellion sweeps Abennelp. Tiva is willing to fight to the death for her king, who takes a special in her. The reader knows why even if Tiva never learns.
Jenn Nixon tells a story in three parts, beginning with Tiva on Abennelp. The the kingdom falls and alien influence becomes clear, she flees to another world that adopts her and helps her join the Union, an intergalactic entity that spans galaxies but only has a handful of member worlds.
The series has been described as Game of Thrones meets Star Trek, but the novel has a YA feel. If it has a shortcoming, it's that the space opera elements do not really enter the story until about halfway through. Beyond that, Tiva is a compelling protagonist, and Nixon lays enough eggs to hatch later on in the series. This is one worth watching.
October 4, 2014
The world of Abennelp lived in peace for many years before the roots of discontent began to sprout. For young Tiva Boon, who wants nothing more than to follow in her parents’ footsteps as a Royal Guardian to the King, it is an exciting yet confusing time. While the true cause of the unrest remains a mystery, it seems to grow and strengthen along with our young heroine. Though Tiva’s will is steadfast and strong, will it be enough to keep evil at bay? Her noble heart is severely tested as the kingdom clings to life.
In the science fiction thriller Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian, author Jenn Nixon creates a vibrant world and intriguing culture. As peace slowly slips away, you long for it’s loss. While the fight scenes are exciting and suspenseful, they are not without consequence. I would have liked more insight into the rebels grievances, or how they’re being manipulated. However, I’m sure more will be revealed in the next installment.
In the science fiction thriller Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian, author Jenn Nixon creates a vibrant world and intriguing culture. As peace slowly slips away, you long for it’s loss. While the fight scenes are exciting and suspenseful, they are not without consequence. I would have liked more insight into the rebels grievances, or how they’re being manipulated. However, I’m sure more will be revealed in the next installment.
May 9, 2017
Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian was hard to get through.
Although you watch Tiva grow from a child to an adult, I only got a sense of her towards the end of the book. Sure, from the beginning of the book I can tell that she is a kick ass female who surpasses all Guardians around her and has a strong sense of loyalty and duty (and she LOVES her tree. Honestly, I kept waiting for it to talk to her), but I just felt every one of her conversations were dry and over-done. The first part of the book was very long-winded and I felt like I could have met Tiva as a teenager and understood her life just as well.
I really connected more with the last half of the book, and although it was still a little boring from time to time, it had a much better pace and more dialog. Really, if you cut the book in half and do away with the over-explanation, I would give it a 4/4.5. I am interested enough in the story to want to read the second book, but only if I can borrow it or obtain through swap.
Although you watch Tiva grow from a child to an adult, I only got a sense of her towards the end of the book. Sure, from the beginning of the book I can tell that she is a kick ass female who surpasses all Guardians around her and has a strong sense of loyalty and duty (and she LOVES her tree. Honestly, I kept waiting for it to talk to her), but I just felt every one of her conversations were dry and over-done. The first part of the book was very long-winded and I felt like I could have met Tiva as a teenager and understood her life just as well.
I really connected more with the last half of the book, and although it was still a little boring from time to time, it had a much better pace and more dialog. Really, if you cut the book in half and do away with the over-explanation, I would give it a 4/4.5. I am interested enough in the story to want to read the second book, but only if I can borrow it or obtain through swap.
September 4, 2016
A fun and easy read! Jenn Nixon writes SciFi that is very easy to read unlike some others that I've read. This story was a delight to read the way she blends advanced technology with a world that's hasn't seemed to let technology take over every aspect of life. In this we get to follow a young Tiva on her journey to become the best Royal Guardian that she can be. It's been her dream and desire but Tiva carries a secret that even she doesn't know about.
October 15, 2016
What a wonderful world: complex, beautiful, perilous.
I loved this book, but you get the happy ending up front - then it gets sliced from you. I want to go back and read the first 1/4 of the book. The characters are beyond 3 dimensional, they have so much range and depth. Lots of action too, which makes it difficult to put down.
I loved this book, but you get the happy ending up front - then it gets sliced from you. I want to go back and read the first 1/4 of the book. The characters are beyond 3 dimensional, they have so much range and depth. Lots of action too, which makes it difficult to put down.
January 4, 2019
This review has been long overdue. I am bad about rambling so here is the straight truth. If you want a story and a heroine as epic as the stuff you see in the movies nowadays, but even greater, this is the one for you. GET THIS AND ITS SEQUEL!
March 14, 2019
I really really enjoyed this book! It caught me right from the beginning and held me to the end. It was full of surprises and one surprise you never see coming and I was shocked and at a loss for words. I was so surprised how well it fit into the storyline and it never changed who Tivia Boon is as a person. Perfect!
Growing up in a family that served as the Royal Guardians for centuries, Tivia naturally had to follow in her family’s footsteps. But she wanted to go one step further, level 1 Royal Guardian to the King and Royal Family. There has never been a female allowed to reach this point. But Tivia has a special place in the Kings heart and she earned her way up the latter to this position.
A war broke out with a rebellion wanting to take the kings place. Tivia fought hard and killed hundreds, trying to keep the king safe, but at one point they had to make a choice. The king had to decide to stay and loose his kingdom to the rebels or flee. This decision will change Tivia’s Life for ever.
Full of action, heartache, friendship, new and old beginnings and a hint of romance, this book kept me on my toes as I followed along with Tivia’s path. Excellent Book!
Growing up in a family that served as the Royal Guardians for centuries, Tivia naturally had to follow in her family’s footsteps. But she wanted to go one step further, level 1 Royal Guardian to the King and Royal Family. There has never been a female allowed to reach this point. But Tivia has a special place in the Kings heart and she earned her way up the latter to this position.
A war broke out with a rebellion wanting to take the kings place. Tivia fought hard and killed hundreds, trying to keep the king safe, but at one point they had to make a choice. The king had to decide to stay and loose his kingdom to the rebels or flee. This decision will change Tivia’s Life for ever.
Full of action, heartache, friendship, new and old beginnings and a hint of romance, this book kept me on my toes as I followed along with Tivia’s path. Excellent Book!
April 20, 2015
On the whole, I liked it, but it was a struggle at times. The book is very long, and it meandered quite a bit. The worldbuilding was skimpy, and the characters fairly superficial. The heroine of the book, Tiva, is a not-quite human female, coming of age in a medievaleasque world with encroaching space technology. There are in fact both swords and blasters in play, by the end of the book.
The major characters are likable, and there are plenty of adventures. The science is laughable, but if you can suspend disbelief there is plenty of entertainment. The book starts off like a juvenile, but gets quite a bit darker towards the end.
This is the first book of a two-book series; and the main threads do all conclude in book 2; so it's not an endless series.
The major characters are likable, and there are plenty of adventures. The science is laughable, but if you can suspend disbelief there is plenty of entertainment. The book starts off like a juvenile, but gets quite a bit darker towards the end.
This is the first book of a two-book series; and the main threads do all conclude in book 2; so it's not an endless series.
September 23, 2015
ROYAL FANTASY!!!
The world of Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian by Jenn Nixon is a vividly concocted, technologically advanced Camelot meets Star Trek sci-fi. The tale begins leisurely following Tiva Boon in her adolescent years as she rises through the echelon of the Royal Guard. As the journey continues the pace rockets forward racing headlong into the menacing threat that has her fleeing for the stars.
Royal Guardian draws readers into an outstanding fantasy loaded with royal secrets, devotion, courage and rising above adversity.
Superb beginning novel for this series definitely a must read for any fan of fantasy and sci-fi! Fortunately the adventure continues in the mind-blowing next installment of the series, Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp!
The world of Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian by Jenn Nixon is a vividly concocted, technologically advanced Camelot meets Star Trek sci-fi. The tale begins leisurely following Tiva Boon in her adolescent years as she rises through the echelon of the Royal Guard. As the journey continues the pace rockets forward racing headlong into the menacing threat that has her fleeing for the stars.
Royal Guardian draws readers into an outstanding fantasy loaded with royal secrets, devotion, courage and rising above adversity.
Superb beginning novel for this series definitely a must read for any fan of fantasy and sci-fi! Fortunately the adventure continues in the mind-blowing next installment of the series, Tiva Boon: Heir of Abennelp!
February 22, 2016
A masterful fantasy tale loaded with political intrigue, mysteries, harrowing fight scenes and then just when you saw it as a lord of the rings style book they add in aliens, space travel and a little romance. The only warning I would give is that you will want to give yourself plenty of time to read this one and then go right into 2nd book in the series to finish out the story. This reminded me a lot of the Chronicles of Elantra – Michelle Sagara if you like this I this you will enjoy these book
This review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
This review was originally posted on Books In Brogan
May 27, 2015
The author, Jenn Nixon weaved quite an intricate tale. I admit the beginning was slow paced while the author began her world building of the formidable Tiva Boon, who wishes to become the first female of the Royal Guardians. At first the story reads like an ancient civilization, though, halfway through you're transported into space. I was amazed at the author's capacity to set a differing mood. I never give spoilers, but I was totally saddened at a few points during some explicit combat scenes where the action picks up and you wonder what could possibly happen next.
If you enjoy reading a unique Sci-fi fantasy then Tiva Boon is for you.
If you enjoy reading a unique Sci-fi fantasy then Tiva Boon is for you.
November 26, 2014
I enjoyed about the first two thirds of this book. I was very clear that it was a completely different society. I described it to my husband as futuristic feudalism. Everything was pulling me deeper and deeper into the story when suddenly
After that it seemed like she dropped off from the story she was originally telling.
After that it seemed like she dropped off from the story she was originally telling.
October 15, 2015
1st I have to say I love this cover! Plus who doesn't love aliens.
This is a fantastic YA teen book that is friendly to younger readers and older alike. This is a light sci-fi so it's not complicated at all to understand like some hard core sci-fi books that would be difficult for youngsters to get. That characters are fun to
The world created is perfect for the story as well as the characters. This story is told from the view of growing up. A great start to a interesting storyline.
This is a fantastic YA teen book that is friendly to younger readers and older alike. This is a light sci-fi so it's not complicated at all to understand like some hard core sci-fi books that would be difficult for youngsters to get. That characters are fun to
The world created is perfect for the story as well as the characters. This story is told from the view of growing up. A great start to a interesting storyline.
December 3, 2015
I have enjoyed Tiva Boon immensely. The author captured my attention right from the beginning. The descriptive imagery and suspensful dialogue held my interest throughout. It is a bit more scientific than what I usually read, but not overly complicated. I loved it and read the entire book in less than 2 days. Tiva is a strong-willed, determined, kick-butt heroine. She survies catastrophes that crumble most. I look forward to learning what the future holds for her.
January 17, 2015
Great book
I normally do not read sci-fi fantasy, but I enjoyed this one. I loved the races the author created. The characters where really interesting to read about and follow. I will definitely be getting the next book. I want to see where she goes and discovers next. May need tissues as well I did!
I normally do not read sci-fi fantasy, but I enjoyed this one. I loved the races the author created. The characters where really interesting to read about and follow. I will definitely be getting the next book. I want to see where she goes and discovers next. May need tissues as well I did!
May 24, 2015
This was an amazing awesome read that I could not put down. The story will grab you and not let you go from beginning to end and will keep you interested throughout the entire read. The characters are amazing and you cannot help but fall in love with them. It also moved along at a great pace, not to slow nor to fast. This has got to be read.
August 19, 2014
I really enjoyed this book.
I really enjoyed this book.
It's a wonderful new world, and the heroine is interesting. I liked how the universe was interesting and new. I really felt for Tiva.
I really enjoyed this book.
It's a wonderful new world, and the heroine is interesting. I liked how the universe was interesting and new. I really felt for Tiva.
July 21, 2014
flawless. unique.. intriguing! I can't wait for the next sequel.
September 13, 2015
There was some confusing parts but all together it was a really great book.
August 7, 2024
Tiva Boon grows up in a family of Royal Guardians, the elite guards who protect the King of the planet Abennelp, and her only wish is to follow in their footsteps and become the first female Guardian to reach the exclusive Elite Guardian level. But as she throws herself into her training, forces are assembling with the intent of bringing down the kingdom, and Tiva finds herself in the midst of a brutal civil war that extends beyond the planet itself.
This builds slowly from a personal coming-of-age story, into something more tragic and epic, taking on a completely different direction around its midpoint. The main character's emotional connections to friends and family hold the story together through all of these transitions, and Tiva emerges as a hero who rises above trauma to find hope in the universe.
The cultural details of Tiva's world are delightful, and the action sequences work well. An awful lot is left unresolved, and I look forward to reading more of Tiva and her adventures as the series continues.
This builds slowly from a personal coming-of-age story, into something more tragic and epic, taking on a completely different direction around its midpoint. The main character's emotional connections to friends and family hold the story together through all of these transitions, and Tiva emerges as a hero who rises above trauma to find hope in the universe.
The cultural details of Tiva's world are delightful, and the action sequences work well. An awful lot is left unresolved, and I look forward to reading more of Tiva and her adventures as the series continues.
December 11, 2016
First off, this was a blast to read. Jenn Nixon has crafted an intriguing tale that starts off more like a classic heroic fantasy adventure. We meet Tiva Boon, a brave, ambitious and skilled girl and follow her on her path to become a Royal Guardian. It reads like an inspiring coming of age story, and Nixon builds it up very well. But then the war starts and I was surprised at how dark the story became. Tiva is tested to the limit and you really become invested in her adventures.
Then Nixon twists the story again and we go from heroic fantasy adventure to full blown space exploration and adventure – with Tiva still acting as our main character. It sounds a little odd, but honestly Nixon pulls it off. Her writing style pulls you in and keeps you committed to the story and characters. The story never feels like it has any padding, and she manages the pacing with great skill.
I had a couple of minor issues. There are a lot of character names thrown at you in this story and I started to get them a bit confused. The brisk pacing works great in most aspects, but sometimes it moved so fast that I didn’t get a real feel for some of the supporting characters. This would reflect my issue with remembering their names as they showed up later. I also feel that Tiva is a little too perfect sometimes. Even her character flaw of stubbornness turns out to be a benefit most of the time.
But these are minor complaints and didn’t harm my enjoyment of the book in the least. In fact when I finished the first novel I really couldn’t wait to pick up and find out what happened to Tiva next. That is the biggest compliment I can give an author for her series. So I certainly recommend this series (both books are great reads) to anyone looking for something fresh and engaging in the fantasy/sci-fi genres.
Then Nixon twists the story again and we go from heroic fantasy adventure to full blown space exploration and adventure – with Tiva still acting as our main character. It sounds a little odd, but honestly Nixon pulls it off. Her writing style pulls you in and keeps you committed to the story and characters. The story never feels like it has any padding, and she manages the pacing with great skill.
I had a couple of minor issues. There are a lot of character names thrown at you in this story and I started to get them a bit confused. The brisk pacing works great in most aspects, but sometimes it moved so fast that I didn’t get a real feel for some of the supporting characters. This would reflect my issue with remembering their names as they showed up later. I also feel that Tiva is a little too perfect sometimes. Even her character flaw of stubbornness turns out to be a benefit most of the time.
But these are minor complaints and didn’t harm my enjoyment of the book in the least. In fact when I finished the first novel I really couldn’t wait to pick up and find out what happened to Tiva next. That is the biggest compliment I can give an author for her series. So I certainly recommend this series (both books are great reads) to anyone looking for something fresh and engaging in the fantasy/sci-fi genres.
Did not finish
April 28, 2015DNF - too boring.
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