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White Road Tales #1
Captured
When Tarek's family is taken prisoner by the conniving, self-proclaimed King of Racah, they make a pact to lay low and do whatever is necessary to survive until they devise an escape.
Despite Tarek's efforts to follow his parent's orders, he has no choice but to save the Princess from making a life-threatening mistake. And despite his best efforts, he can't help when he loses his heart to the enchanting and lonely Princess. Unfortunately, Tarek is in danger of losing more than just his heart.
He might lose everything if their secret is found out.
Captured is the first of three novellas in the White Road Tales prequel series…
Despite Tarek's efforts to follow his parent's orders, he has no choice but to save the Princess from making a life-threatening mistake. And despite his best efforts, he can't help when he loses his heart to the enchanting and lonely Princess. Unfortunately, Tarek is in danger of losing more than just his heart.
He might lose everything if their secret is found out.
Captured is the first of three novellas in the White Road Tales prequel series…
109 pages, ebook
First published August 12, 2014
77 people are currently reading
217 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Castle
44 books137 followers Jackie Castle is also known as J.R. Castle.
Hello friends-
Welcome to my Goodreads Story World. I hope you’ll have a stroll around at all the sweet, inspirational stories on my shelves. One never knows what new adventure awaits them around the next corner.
I am the author of over 35 books in various genres: fantasy, romance, children’s & non-fiction. I write as Jackie Castle & J.R. Castle.
I love exploring my story worlds and, even more, I love God. We’ve had such an interesting journey and there is still so much ahead. I’m always looking for the extraordinary in the ordinary and believe this life is full of unlimited possibilities.
I love to interact with readers! Be sure to sign up for my newsletter and check out my blog page. You can find out more about my shenanigans over at: www.jackiecastle.com. While you're snooping around, take a moment to sign up for my monthly newsletter. =)
Thanks so much for stopping by!
J. C.
.
Hello friends-
Welcome to my Goodreads Story World. I hope you’ll have a stroll around at all the sweet, inspirational stories on my shelves. One never knows what new adventure awaits them around the next corner.
I am the author of over 35 books in various genres: fantasy, romance, children’s & non-fiction. I write as Jackie Castle & J.R. Castle.
I love exploring my story worlds and, even more, I love God. We’ve had such an interesting journey and there is still so much ahead. I’m always looking for the extraordinary in the ordinary and believe this life is full of unlimited possibilities.
I love to interact with readers! Be sure to sign up for my newsletter and check out my blog page. You can find out more about my shenanigans over at: www.jackiecastle.com. While you're snooping around, take a moment to sign up for my monthly newsletter. =)
Thanks so much for stopping by!
J. C.
.
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 5, 2020
Interesting First Novella in a Trilogy
This was an interesting beginning. Having not read any of the other books I’m not sure what I would think of it if I had. The characters were likable, (the good guys anyway) and grew as the story progressed. I wish there was more of a solid ending as it ends with the main problem still unresolved. I feel that it would have been better had it been written with the other two novellas in the series into a longer novel rather than three short novellas. However, that is just my opinion. It was an enjoyable read.
This was an interesting beginning. Having not read any of the other books I’m not sure what I would think of it if I had. The characters were likable, (the good guys anyway) and grew as the story progressed. I wish there was more of a solid ending as it ends with the main problem still unresolved. I feel that it would have been better had it been written with the other two novellas in the series into a longer novel rather than three short novellas. However, that is just my opinion. It was an enjoyable read.
May 22, 2015
Captured is the first in the prequel trilogy of novellas for Castle’s White Road Chronicles. I have enjoyed Castle’s novels thus far and picked this up when I saw it would give more of the missing backstory to two key characters
Plot – Grade A
Considering this prequel novella follows a completed trilogy, anyone who has read at least the first book, Illuminated, knows the ultimate ending to the novella and its sequels. However, do not let that deter you from checking out this story. Castle did an excellent job of sharing more about the background of Tarek and his family as well as weaving in Princess’ life before the first novel. The story develops the world of Racah, the dark kingdom beyond what we see through Princess’ eyes in Illuminated and stands up well on its own. The plot is short and woven together with just a few strings left to be picked up in the next novella. Certain throwaway elements in this novella will jump at readers familiar with Castle’s work and trigger an “Oh! I know what that means!!” reaction. I enjoy Easter eggs so it was fun for me. The plot whets one’s appetite for more without giving away noticeable spoilers for the novels if readers haven’t read them yet while also breathing fresh life into the world for those who are already familiar with it.
Content – Grade A
This is a clean read. Language takes place offstage with only the inoffensive “Trollsbreath” being used plainly. There are references to sensuality but they are very discreet even when a girl propositions Tarek and he sees his father with a mistress. There is violence. Several people are killed and blood is described as pooling and staining witnesses’ clothing. However, this did not teeter into being gratuitous since again the focus is more on the characters’ reactions than anything else.
There is a very sweet romance brewing between Tarek and Princess. I liked how he respects her and how he draws her out of her shell. I also liked the way Tarek works to take care of his family even with his father being an absolute boor.
The spiritual side of things is extremely light in this first novella, especially compared to the allegorical nature of the original trilogy. There are mentions of the white trees and the true king. Nothing too overwhelming or in your face about it, which definitely suits this short novella and the characters’ current frame of mind spiritually.
Technical – Grade A-
This was very well edited. There were a few typos and one instance where you’re was used instead of your but nothing too grating. There a few places where the language used was a tad modern for the medieval-esque setting but nothing that truly jerked me out of the setting. The pacing was quick without being rushed. You get a clear picture of characters, especially Tarek and his family, without being overwhelmed or underwhelmed. Secondary and tertiary characters stand out when they need to and are not made of cardboard. The story is able to stand on its own while inviting you to dive further into the world of The White Road Chronicles.
Final Grade – A or 5 stars
Overall, I really enjoyed this prequel. I love it when authors reveal the backstories to novels/characters and further explore the world they’ve created. I’m looking forward to reading more about the lead up to Illuminated. I recommend this book to both fans of Castle’s White Road Chronicles and those looking to dip their toe into a fantasy romance that is family-friendly and leads into a strong Christian allegorical fantasy. Recommended for ages 13 and up.
Plot – Grade A
Considering this prequel novella follows a completed trilogy, anyone who has read at least the first book, Illuminated, knows the ultimate ending to the novella and its sequels. However, do not let that deter you from checking out this story. Castle did an excellent job of sharing more about the background of Tarek and his family as well as weaving in Princess’ life before the first novel. The story develops the world of Racah, the dark kingdom beyond what we see through Princess’ eyes in Illuminated and stands up well on its own. The plot is short and woven together with just a few strings left to be picked up in the next novella. Certain throwaway elements in this novella will jump at readers familiar with Castle’s work and trigger an “Oh! I know what that means!!” reaction. I enjoy Easter eggs so it was fun for me. The plot whets one’s appetite for more without giving away noticeable spoilers for the novels if readers haven’t read them yet while also breathing fresh life into the world for those who are already familiar with it.
Content – Grade A
This is a clean read. Language takes place offstage with only the inoffensive “Trollsbreath” being used plainly. There are references to sensuality but they are very discreet even when a girl propositions Tarek and he sees his father with a mistress. There is violence. Several people are killed and blood is described as pooling and staining witnesses’ clothing. However, this did not teeter into being gratuitous since again the focus is more on the characters’ reactions than anything else.
There is a very sweet romance brewing between Tarek and Princess. I liked how he respects her and how he draws her out of her shell. I also liked the way Tarek works to take care of his family even with his father being an absolute boor.
The spiritual side of things is extremely light in this first novella, especially compared to the allegorical nature of the original trilogy. There are mentions of the white trees and the true king. Nothing too overwhelming or in your face about it, which definitely suits this short novella and the characters’ current frame of mind spiritually.
Technical – Grade A-
This was very well edited. There were a few typos and one instance where you’re was used instead of your but nothing too grating. There a few places where the language used was a tad modern for the medieval-esque setting but nothing that truly jerked me out of the setting. The pacing was quick without being rushed. You get a clear picture of characters, especially Tarek and his family, without being overwhelmed or underwhelmed. Secondary and tertiary characters stand out when they need to and are not made of cardboard. The story is able to stand on its own while inviting you to dive further into the world of The White Road Chronicles.
Final Grade – A or 5 stars
Overall, I really enjoyed this prequel. I love it when authors reveal the backstories to novels/characters and further explore the world they’ve created. I’m looking forward to reading more about the lead up to Illuminated. I recommend this book to both fans of Castle’s White Road Chronicles and those looking to dip their toe into a fantasy romance that is family-friendly and leads into a strong Christian allegorical fantasy. Recommended for ages 13 and up.
September 29, 2018
Forbidden romance between royalty and servant.
The romance of Tarek and his princess is forbidden but the silly boy has lost his head. Neither the hardships his family has had to endure nor the cruelty of the king can deter his heart. His lout of a father, ostrich like mother, and proud unafraid sister all try to warn him to stay away from the castle. Why does the heart want what it wants, and how are we mere mortals to disobey its pull? This is just the begining of an adventure for our little cast of characters.
The romance of Tarek and his princess is forbidden but the silly boy has lost his head. Neither the hardships his family has had to endure nor the cruelty of the king can deter his heart. His lout of a father, ostrich like mother, and proud unafraid sister all try to warn him to stay away from the castle. Why does the heart want what it wants, and how are we mere mortals to disobey its pull? This is just the begining of an adventure for our little cast of characters.
February 14, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It kept my attention the whole time. I didn't want to put it down. I want to read the other books to find out what happens. There is so much left unanswered and so much mystery. I want to know what happens with the Hunter and Princess relationship.
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed it
I received this book for free and voluntarily reviewed it
January 9, 2018
This is about a king that makes slaves of other villages. And about a girl he calls daughter that says he is not her father & a village boy that falls in love with. This is the first book in the series.
August 4, 2018
Mysterious
I enjoyed how this story developed. Even though this is not my typical style of read I've enjoyed it. Some characters more then others. I think this book is suitable for Young teen as well as adult.
I enjoyed how this story developed. Even though this is not my typical style of read I've enjoyed it. Some characters more then others. I think this book is suitable for Young teen as well as adult.
December 26, 2024
It was pretty good as far as novellas go. I was a wee bit confused at the characters reactions to things, and the romance was slow, but overall a good book. I'm looking forward to getting the sequel from the library.
October 13, 2018
A good fantasy novella. Characters were interesting and the storyline draws a reader in. I just wished it was longer!
April 21, 2016
This trilogy of novellas is the prequel to the White Road Chronicles series and really does lend a good deal to one's understanding of it. It probably is best read before or between the first and second books of the Chronicles.
As with the White Road Chronicles, the storytelling is engaging and forward-moving, and the characters are interesting. Actually, the main characters of the series become much more likable once you've read the prequel, which explains both the heroine's air-headed/fickle tendencies and the hero's willingness to risk so much for an apparent stranger.
From a storytelling standpoint alone, I would give this prequel series 4 stars. However, the poor editing makes the read annoying, even sometimes difficult/impossible to decipher.
As with the White Road Chronicles, the storytelling is engaging and forward-moving, and the characters are interesting. Actually, the main characters of the series become much more likable once you've read the prequel, which explains both the heroine's air-headed/fickle tendencies and the hero's willingness to risk so much for an apparent stranger.
From a storytelling standpoint alone, I would give this prequel series 4 stars. However, the poor editing makes the read annoying, even sometimes difficult/impossible to decipher.
January 1, 2016
Captured tells the backstory of the White Road Chronicles. It was short and filled in a few gaps, but seemed to not line up with everything. There are three of these novellas. Maybe you need to read them all, which I am going to do. Three stars it was ok.
June 17, 2015
Good start to a series. Enjoyed it
April 20, 2016
I gave it five stars because I enjoyed reading it! Tarek! And Alyra was like a totally different character, what even? I liked her in this!
December 2, 2019
This book was really fantastic.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews