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The Goddess Within
New & revised edition! An award-winning magical journey of self-discovery set in 16th century Italy. Berka was raised by her hermit father in the wild, secluded from human society. At the dawn of her fifteenth summer she meets a faun, a being from a different realm. The two are instantly drawn to each other, but their secret meetings are soon disturbed by the arrival of a group of bandits. The threat intensifies when the group’s leader establishes an alliance with evil spirits from the underworld. Berka’s father comes up with an escape plan, but she doesn’t want to leave and so she finds another way to deal with the inevitable peril. Throughout the adventure, Berka also embarks on a road to self-discovery. She learns to embrace the powerful aspects of her divine feminine as well as the inseparable bond to the masculine. The story is inspired by ancient European mythology, pagan philosophy, and Sacred Geometry symbolism.
- GenresFantasy
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2015
5 people are currently reading
841 people want to read
About the author
Iva Kenaz
24 books126 followersIva Kenaz is an award-winning author, publisher, and speaker whose books are significantly influenced by metaphysics and nature magic. She studied Screenwriting at the Prague Film Academy and holds an MA in Creative Writing. She's also an avid researcher of ancient wisdom and teachings, especially those of the magic symbols, sacred geometry, runes. She also writes about her visits to parallel worlds and dimensions, particularly the elven or fairy realms and the afterlife.
Iva's many visionary books include The Witch Within, The Goddess Within, The Merkaba Mystery, Alchemist Awakening: An Alchemical Journey Through the Zodiac, Manifested, Francois Villon, Runes: Magical Codes of Nature, Tree Magic, Sacred Geometry and Magical Symbols, Sacred Geometry Symbols, and many more.
For more information please visit her website: www.ivakenaz.com
Iva's many visionary books include The Witch Within, The Goddess Within, The Merkaba Mystery, Alchemist Awakening: An Alchemical Journey Through the Zodiac, Manifested, Francois Villon, Runes: Magical Codes of Nature, Tree Magic, Sacred Geometry and Magical Symbols, Sacred Geometry Symbols, and many more.
For more information please visit her website: www.ivakenaz.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 25, 2015
The Goddess Within’ is a beautifully written and imagined novel with elements of fantasy, romance and mystery. In a magical landscape, worlds exist within worlds and there is a blurring between animals, humans and other beings.
In the late 16th century, fifteen-year-old Berka lives with her father in the rural isolation of Beltane, Italy. They live happily in harmony with the land, spiritual forces and nature. Berka’s world is thrown into upheaval by the arrival of a group of strange men led by the seemingly friendly but ultimately treacherous, Vibius. She has inherited her mother’s gifts and as she comes of age, she must discover them and the truth about her family’s strange past.
Iva Kenaz uses nature, runes, and elements to create a vibrant and spiritual story. Her characters are strong, believable and easy to identify with. I especially loved Berka and the horned boy, Giss and their awakening romance. The parallel World Beyond the Veil was beautifully depicted, while in contrast, the underworld and Shadow of Caves were suitably nightmarish and chilling.
If you haven’t read Iva Kenaz’s books, all of them are well worth reading. She has a talent for creating magical and ethereal stories that make you feel you’re in a dream state as you read them. I highly recommend ‘The Goddess Within’. It’s a beautiful novel.
In the late 16th century, fifteen-year-old Berka lives with her father in the rural isolation of Beltane, Italy. They live happily in harmony with the land, spiritual forces and nature. Berka’s world is thrown into upheaval by the arrival of a group of strange men led by the seemingly friendly but ultimately treacherous, Vibius. She has inherited her mother’s gifts and as she comes of age, she must discover them and the truth about her family’s strange past.
Iva Kenaz uses nature, runes, and elements to create a vibrant and spiritual story. Her characters are strong, believable and easy to identify with. I especially loved Berka and the horned boy, Giss and their awakening romance. The parallel World Beyond the Veil was beautifully depicted, while in contrast, the underworld and Shadow of Caves were suitably nightmarish and chilling.
If you haven’t read Iva Kenaz’s books, all of them are well worth reading. She has a talent for creating magical and ethereal stories that make you feel you’re in a dream state as you read them. I highly recommend ‘The Goddess Within’. It’s a beautiful novel.
September 30, 2015
I was very keen to read Kenaz's latest novel, and was left very nicely surprised. This was a bit different from her previous novels, it felt more like a fairy tale for grown-ups! It’s magical, mysterious and wise. I loved the mythological figures and the idea of the other purer, but also darker worlds co-existing alongside our world. It made me feel like going out to the forest and wait for a fairy or a faun to show up. Maybe if I read the book in the wild, magic really would happen, who knows.
The book also has wonderful illustrations. It was nice to see the symbols the author speaks of while reading it and the art is beautiful.
Overall, it was a beautiful experience to lose myself in the fantasy world of The Goddess Within.
The book also has wonderful illustrations. It was nice to see the symbols the author speaks of while reading it and the art is beautiful.
Overall, it was a beautiful experience to lose myself in the fantasy world of The Goddess Within.
February 28, 2016
One of the things that makes Iva Kenaz’s writing so wonderful to read is it’s refreshing, unique, and void of any desire to be the next mainstream big thing. This is the third book I’ve read by her, and a standalone sequel to her first novel, The Witch Within, and it pulled me in just as much as the other two novels, if not more. Set in 16th-century Italy, The Goddess Within follows Berka, a 15-year-old girl who lives in the wilds of the forest with her recluse father, who has raised her to live in harmony with nature.
Drawn by dreams to a faun, a creature from a parallel, magical realm, she soon finds herself on a journey of self-discovery as bandits and shadow spirits create havoc in her forest home. For believers in the mysteries of the forest, this story brings nature and spirituality in tune. Although there’s a romance, it doesn’t dominate the story by any means, but instead serves as a thread tying elements of the story together. And yet, the love story was truly one of my favorite parts of the book.
One thing I really appreciate about Kenaz’s writing is how she subtlety weaves magic into the mundane. A passing glance often reveals something so much more meaningful without launching into lengthy explanations, making it masterfully done. Her characters never lack a voice, and Berka’s growth from a willful, naive, innocent girl to a woman who, although still very much a pure soul, delves into her “inner goddess,” was well-written and served as a main theme. Much like in her previous novel The Witch Within, the story explores earth-based, ancestral spiritualism that centers around the feminine mystique.
This enchanting tale of self-discovery, growth, and forgiveness blends sacred geometry—which is the belief that God has ascribed symbolic and sacred meaning to geometric shapes—mythical creatures, and familial bonds to create a tale that anyone who appreciates nature, fantasy, and love will want to read.
*I received this copy from the author in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
Drawn by dreams to a faun, a creature from a parallel, magical realm, she soon finds herself on a journey of self-discovery as bandits and shadow spirits create havoc in her forest home. For believers in the mysteries of the forest, this story brings nature and spirituality in tune. Although there’s a romance, it doesn’t dominate the story by any means, but instead serves as a thread tying elements of the story together. And yet, the love story was truly one of my favorite parts of the book.
One thing I really appreciate about Kenaz’s writing is how she subtlety weaves magic into the mundane. A passing glance often reveals something so much more meaningful without launching into lengthy explanations, making it masterfully done. Her characters never lack a voice, and Berka’s growth from a willful, naive, innocent girl to a woman who, although still very much a pure soul, delves into her “inner goddess,” was well-written and served as a main theme. Much like in her previous novel The Witch Within, the story explores earth-based, ancestral spiritualism that centers around the feminine mystique.
This enchanting tale of self-discovery, growth, and forgiveness blends sacred geometry—which is the belief that God has ascribed symbolic and sacred meaning to geometric shapes—mythical creatures, and familial bonds to create a tale that anyone who appreciates nature, fantasy, and love will want to read.
*I received this copy from the author in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
September 22, 2015
Beautiful romantic story. If you like romance and fantasy blended with metaphysical elements and mythology, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one just as much as I did. It's poetic, spiritual, and certainly one of a kind!
October 20, 2017
This is a story of self-discovery that is rooted in European folklore and fairytales. It is certainly poetic with an atmospheric fantasy feel.
There are some lovely descriptions and a deep spiritual journey for the protagonist and much inner soul-searching.
You do have to get used to the language, however, it perfectly fits this type of tale, where nature is just one of the themes.
Well-written and worth a look.
There are some lovely descriptions and a deep spiritual journey for the protagonist and much inner soul-searching.
You do have to get used to the language, however, it perfectly fits this type of tale, where nature is just one of the themes.
Well-written and worth a look.
January 10, 2016
As an author, you are sometimes privileged enough to read a book that shows you just how far you still have to go in your journey to achieve greatness. The Goddess Within is just such a book. Kenaz has written an absolute masterpiece of fantasy and mysticism that had me enraptured from the very first words. This is a beautifully written, no, crafted book that uses the language to its fullest extent, which is more remarkable given that I assume English was not the author's first language.
The story itself is interesting and fascinating enough in its own right, but the way in which Kenaz weaves words and structures her narrative is absolutely mesmerizing. I can honestly say that this early in 2016, The Goddess Within, will almost certainly still be right up there contending for "Book of the Year" when I hand out my annual "Grunter Awards" in December. This is a wonderful story and I enjoyed its telling to the full. I was disappointed when it ended, but can take some solace that Kenaz has other books I can read and I most certainly will.
The story itself focuses on Berka, a young woman, who discovers her place in the world as a daughter and as a woman. Set in a mystical, earthy world, Berka explores the realms between worlds and is forced to face up to herself and her deepest fears and disappointments - her shadow self. One thing I particularly enjoyed in this tale is how the author weaves conservation and the need to preserve our environment, into her story. Although it is set in the sixteenth century, many of the concerns facing her world are the same concerns we face today. The author also confronts the issue of differences and relationships across those differences. It is a truly inspirational and moving tale.
I cannot wait to read her next book on my TBR list - The witch Within, which incidentally was written before The Goddess Within. I hope the insights and understanding I gained from The Goddess Within will make the next book, even more, exciting and enjoyable. Thank you to Iva Kenaz for such a wonderful and enthralling distraction from my daily world. If I could possibly give you more than five stars for this story, I surely would.
The story itself is interesting and fascinating enough in its own right, but the way in which Kenaz weaves words and structures her narrative is absolutely mesmerizing. I can honestly say that this early in 2016, The Goddess Within, will almost certainly still be right up there contending for "Book of the Year" when I hand out my annual "Grunter Awards" in December. This is a wonderful story and I enjoyed its telling to the full. I was disappointed when it ended, but can take some solace that Kenaz has other books I can read and I most certainly will.
The story itself focuses on Berka, a young woman, who discovers her place in the world as a daughter and as a woman. Set in a mystical, earthy world, Berka explores the realms between worlds and is forced to face up to herself and her deepest fears and disappointments - her shadow self. One thing I particularly enjoyed in this tale is how the author weaves conservation and the need to preserve our environment, into her story. Although it is set in the sixteenth century, many of the concerns facing her world are the same concerns we face today. The author also confronts the issue of differences and relationships across those differences. It is a truly inspirational and moving tale.
I cannot wait to read her next book on my TBR list - The witch Within, which incidentally was written before The Goddess Within. I hope the insights and understanding I gained from The Goddess Within will make the next book, even more, exciting and enjoyable. Thank you to Iva Kenaz for such a wonderful and enthralling distraction from my daily world. If I could possibly give you more than five stars for this story, I surely would.
January 19, 2016
The era is 1600s, and a young lady named Berka lives a life of being at one with nature, in the rural town of Beltane, Italy.
Her father has spend his life teaching her to respect and listen to the natural world around her so that she can learn to live in harmony with her surroundings, including the worlds animals.
One night she has a vivid dream about a male, then a group of seemingly friendly men arrive in the village, including the male in her vision. Eventually the two meet and share a fondness of one another.
Her father however does not trust the men and makes Berka leave with him, so that he can hide her away from them in her grandmothers cave, fearing for her safety.
Berka is so keen to meet with the boy in her dream, Giss, that she leaves the safety of the cave alone, forgetting that she has been warned to be careful. Ending up coming face to face with the leader of the men, her life is thrown in to chaos when he summons the shadow spirits to take Berka’s to her rightful home.
After the first few pages of getting used to the terminology, I found myself eager to know Berka’s story. I liked the life lessons she learnt as her journey proceeded.
The book is set in a mystical, spiritual world where there are different realms and being at one with mother nature is the one things that binds everyone.
Berka has a lot to learn and understand throughout the book, and with gaining knowledge and understanding comes confidence, which Berka gained steadily all the way through.
The book is a wonderful fantasy book, beautifully told and centres around a spiritual world full of mystical creatures, that Iva Kenaz has clearly made visual to her audience.
I was unsure of how I would feel about the book as it was different to anything I have every read before, but I shouldn’t of worried as I love it from the first to the very last word.
Reviewed by Marcia at www.whisperingstories.com
Her father has spend his life teaching her to respect and listen to the natural world around her so that she can learn to live in harmony with her surroundings, including the worlds animals.
One night she has a vivid dream about a male, then a group of seemingly friendly men arrive in the village, including the male in her vision. Eventually the two meet and share a fondness of one another.
Her father however does not trust the men and makes Berka leave with him, so that he can hide her away from them in her grandmothers cave, fearing for her safety.
Berka is so keen to meet with the boy in her dream, Giss, that she leaves the safety of the cave alone, forgetting that she has been warned to be careful. Ending up coming face to face with the leader of the men, her life is thrown in to chaos when he summons the shadow spirits to take Berka’s to her rightful home.
After the first few pages of getting used to the terminology, I found myself eager to know Berka’s story. I liked the life lessons she learnt as her journey proceeded.
The book is set in a mystical, spiritual world where there are different realms and being at one with mother nature is the one things that binds everyone.
Berka has a lot to learn and understand throughout the book, and with gaining knowledge and understanding comes confidence, which Berka gained steadily all the way through.
The book is a wonderful fantasy book, beautifully told and centres around a spiritual world full of mystical creatures, that Iva Kenaz has clearly made visual to her audience.
I was unsure of how I would feel about the book as it was different to anything I have every read before, but I shouldn’t of worried as I love it from the first to the very last word.
Reviewed by Marcia at www.whisperingstories.com
September 19, 2015
I adored the plot, the characters and the fantasy realm with its fauns, nymphs, dryads, centaurs, gnomes and etc. Reading it put me in a good, dreamy mood. This was a perfect book to read during the last summer days. It has an exciting plot and is poetically written, as are all the novels by Iva Kenaz. It’s also a book I can imagine reading more times and enjoying it word by word. It’s filled with wisdom, phrases that somehow stay with you. I can also imagine reading this book to my kids. It’s quite dark in some parts, but less than the prequel and the fantasy world is just so rich and somehow felt real. This is a stand-alone sequel to The Witch Within, and I thought it was nice to see how the author continues within the same family line, the magic of the sigils and symbols but then also goes and explores other spiritual concepts. It was nice to read about Talitha, the main heroine from the previous novel, who is now a spirit guide to her granddaughter. I plan to read this more times so for now this is all I can say.
September 30, 2015
Another wonderful metaphysical novel by Iva Kenaz!
This story is certainly not black and white. It’s colorful and playful, just like a fairy tale should be. But here the evil is not to be destroyed from the outside, but from the within. The novel works with the shadow side, as well as the light one, but mainly the harmony between the two. It reminded me of many myths and fairy tales, particularly the Little Mermaid, the Beauty and the Beast and many Greek myths as well. The romance is adorable. I’ve never read a love story between a faun and a human girl before. It reminded me of Narnia in some ways as well.
Berka, the main heroine, is a well-developed character, very wise for her age, and her stubbornness made me laugh at times. I liked the other characters too, particularly the faun, the centaur healer and the antagonist Vibius, mainly for his vulnerability. I can’t wait to read more books by this talented author.
She always manages to surprise me with something new and challenging.
This story is certainly not black and white. It’s colorful and playful, just like a fairy tale should be. But here the evil is not to be destroyed from the outside, but from the within. The novel works with the shadow side, as well as the light one, but mainly the harmony between the two. It reminded me of many myths and fairy tales, particularly the Little Mermaid, the Beauty and the Beast and many Greek myths as well. The romance is adorable. I’ve never read a love story between a faun and a human girl before. It reminded me of Narnia in some ways as well.
Berka, the main heroine, is a well-developed character, very wise for her age, and her stubbornness made me laugh at times. I liked the other characters too, particularly the faun, the centaur healer and the antagonist Vibius, mainly for his vulnerability. I can’t wait to read more books by this talented author.
She always manages to surprise me with something new and challenging.
October 3, 2015
The Goddess Within is a wonderful fantasy story about a young woman, Berka, who lived in the rural area of Beltane, Italy with her father and dog companion. Her life is harmonious with the land and animals until a group of dangerous men arrive. Berka's father knows she isn't safe and takes her to her grandmother's cave to hide, but Berka feels drawn to leave the cave to meet her friend who is a faun from a magical world.
Eventually Berka enters this magical world and learns many things about herself and her Mother. The story is a coming of age story that becomes a spritual journey where Berka must face the shadow side of herself, take responsibility for her decisions, try and help her father, learn about love and try and save her homeland.
There was enough tension and drama in the story to keep me turning the pags and the characters were well developed. A great fantasy story with many good insights.
Eventually Berka enters this magical world and learns many things about herself and her Mother. The story is a coming of age story that becomes a spritual journey where Berka must face the shadow side of herself, take responsibility for her decisions, try and help her father, learn about love and try and save her homeland.
There was enough tension and drama in the story to keep me turning the pags and the characters were well developed. A great fantasy story with many good insights.
December 23, 2015
I was totally engrossed in the descriptive beauty of this novel. Berka lives with her father in the rural isolation of Beltane, Italy, in a world, where man and beast co-habit in a most spiritual and enlightening way, and where there is good, evil, light and darkness in a world of veils.
The period was set in the late 1600's, however in this magically depicted world, the historical period did not take centre stage.
I thought that the characters were very well developed, from the fawn to the evil, but seemingly pleasant Vibius. The story was also enchanting with great depth.
Is this a fairy tale? I'm not sure, It is certainly erring on that side but, as an adult I found it much darker and more dramatic than a simple tale, of mixed beings, and fantastical worlds.
A wonderful read, and highly recommended.
The period was set in the late 1600's, however in this magically depicted world, the historical period did not take centre stage.
I thought that the characters were very well developed, from the fawn to the evil, but seemingly pleasant Vibius. The story was also enchanting with great depth.
Is this a fairy tale? I'm not sure, It is certainly erring on that side but, as an adult I found it much darker and more dramatic than a simple tale, of mixed beings, and fantastical worlds.
A wonderful read, and highly recommended.
November 10, 2015
What a wonderful story. It reads like a fantasy tale with its colourful and varied characters: a faun, bandits, a hermit father; also through the depiction of different realms that can be transcended; yet, the world described has too many roots and influences from mysticism and spirituality to be merely a fairy tale. Harmony and balance of forces and deeper understanding of human life and its purposes are all touched upon.
The novel is set in 16th century Italy, which adds beautiful charm to the scene setting and fits in particularly well with the simplicity that can be found in the spiritual leanings and messages within. In a sense this is also a coming of age story of the main character with love and romance aspects. I really enjoyed this amazing world and its characters.
The novel is set in 16th century Italy, which adds beautiful charm to the scene setting and fits in particularly well with the simplicity that can be found in the spiritual leanings and messages within. In a sense this is also a coming of age story of the main character with love and romance aspects. I really enjoyed this amazing world and its characters.
April 18, 2016
The novel is set in 16th century Italy, 15 year old Berka lives with her father in the rural isolation of Beltane, Italy. They live happily in harmony with the land, spiritual forces and nature. Berka’s world is thrown into chaos by the arrival of a group of strange men led by Vibius. She has inherited her mother’s gifts and as she comes of age, she must discover them and the truth about her family’s strange past.
It blends mythology, adventure, natural magic, sacred geometry and runes, different realms or dimensions. The roots of this book are pagan, which I loved.
Another lovely novel by Iva Kenaz. Well written, interesting story line and plot with well developed characters that kept my interest throughout.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes fantasy stories!
It blends mythology, adventure, natural magic, sacred geometry and runes, different realms or dimensions. The roots of this book are pagan, which I loved.
Another lovely novel by Iva Kenaz. Well written, interesting story line and plot with well developed characters that kept my interest throughout.
I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes fantasy stories!
November 10, 2015
I read this book in one sitting and really enjoyed it. The language was very well written and the characters were easy to associate with. There's a big focus on spirituality and the esoteric, but I didn't find this overtook the story too much.
Without giving spoilers, it's difficult to highlight certain parts but I can say that the switch between essentially fantasy and reality is done really well.
I loved the pictures and the specific details of the spiritual history was brilliant. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes fantasy stories!
Without giving spoilers, it's difficult to highlight certain parts but I can say that the switch between essentially fantasy and reality is done really well.
I loved the pictures and the specific details of the spiritual history was brilliant. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who likes fantasy stories!
January 15, 2016
Another lovely novel by Iva Kenaz. Well written, interesting story line and plot with well developed characters that kept my interest throughout. Great for anyone who loves otherworldly, paranormal, or fantasy books!
January 29, 2020
The Goddess Within by Iva Kenaz is the sequel to the historical fantasy book The Witch Within, reading as a stand-alone with its young protagonist, Berka. With knowledge of what Berka divinely possesses, she is raised by her father in the 16th century Italian wilderness, one which holds the mythical and magical that co-exist beyond the treacherous cities and villages constructed by man. The seclusion is a mixed blessing, but one her father was unwilling to deter from. “I’m sorry that I’m being so protective of you, Berka, but trust me, I have my reasons...” As Berka grows into herself and the mystical realm that surrounds her, she meets a faun named Giss who offers the companionship she desperately needs. Happiness is shattered when the world of man invades Berka's space, and she is forced to confront all she has been previously protected from.
Iva Kenaz writes with a panache that comfortably blends history, fantasy, and the refinement of literary fiction in The Goddess Within. There is a lot that has gone into the story, and even with Berka at the helm, the guidance of spirits and transcendent creatures and entities help the young woman on both of her journeys; one of discovery of herself and the other to rescue and reclaim those she cares for and all she believes in. She is multi-dimensional and thoroughly fleshed out as a character, and the supporting cast—diverse and bountiful as they are—are independently constructed and easy to separate. I think this a wonderful story that can be enjoyed by readers of multiple genres, and would be equally comfortable recommending it to all ages.
Review written for Readers' Favorite.
Iva Kenaz writes with a panache that comfortably blends history, fantasy, and the refinement of literary fiction in The Goddess Within. There is a lot that has gone into the story, and even with Berka at the helm, the guidance of spirits and transcendent creatures and entities help the young woman on both of her journeys; one of discovery of herself and the other to rescue and reclaim those she cares for and all she believes in. She is multi-dimensional and thoroughly fleshed out as a character, and the supporting cast—diverse and bountiful as they are—are independently constructed and easy to separate. I think this a wonderful story that can be enjoyed by readers of multiple genres, and would be equally comfortable recommending it to all ages.
Review written for Readers' Favorite.
May 22, 2017
Enthralling, sensitive story that blends visionary and spiritual genres with fantasy, historical fiction and romance. It’s a work of fiction, but in a way also a self-help book. I felt like the story teaches me something important while I was reading it. There were a few lines that I actually noted down to ponder about them. I’ll surely read this one again. In fact, I think this is a novel I will return to many times. There is a great power in it, mainly in the details beneath the surface. Thank you Iva Kenaz and can't wait to read the next one!
...And the illustrations are just so beautiful and unique!
...And the illustrations are just so beautiful and unique!
December 20, 2018
Enjoyable tale
The is a story inspired by ancient European mythology, pagan philosophy and Sacred Geometry symbolism, and is set in 16th century Italy. It is a sequel to 'The Witch Within', which I haven't read but this story stands well on its own merits. The story revolves around 15-year old Berka, her self-discovery and realisation her inherited special gifts. The author has done a great job crafting the characters who are both intriguing and likeable. The world is vividly described and illustrated to create a perfect setting for a fantastic story. Readers who like to find out more about witch craft or spiritualism will enjoy this book.
The is a story inspired by ancient European mythology, pagan philosophy and Sacred Geometry symbolism, and is set in 16th century Italy. It is a sequel to 'The Witch Within', which I haven't read but this story stands well on its own merits. The story revolves around 15-year old Berka, her self-discovery and realisation her inherited special gifts. The author has done a great job crafting the characters who are both intriguing and likeable. The world is vividly described and illustrated to create a perfect setting for a fantastic story. Readers who like to find out more about witch craft or spiritualism will enjoy this book.
October 13, 2017
My first book by Kenaz, which started off my fascination with visionary novels! This genre is not that common, but I think it's developing. Whoever likes spirituality and pagan beliefs blended with fiction should read this one! It's refreshing to read about it in story for a change.
December 22, 2015
Iva Kenaz’ The Goddess Within is multi-layered in what it ambitiously explores: there’s a charming coming of age story, an environmental cautionary tale, a celebration of the Goddess in the feminine realm, and a double world fantasy where the natural world is just as magical as the spirit world. The combination of these elements serves to unfold a tale of a young woman entering into maturity as a physical/sexual human and attaining a higher level of spiritual consciousness.
Berka, the main character of the novel, experiences self-doubt, stubbornness, pain, and terror; the loss and mystery of her parents grounds the book in psychological reality. Concurrent with this darkness is a shimmering adoration of Nature and its precious magical properties. I found myself reading slowly, luxuriating in the book’s worlds, even when the story picked up excitement and speed. The coming of age story has great innocence; Berka marvels equally over her first cup of wine as the spirit power in a tree. Berka’s doubts and recklessness may be around shifting planes of existence, but they are also the self-esteem and impulse control issues of a teen. J.K. Rowling pulls off this blend of magical conflicts and real adolescent problems, but where the Harry Potter series feels contemporary and familiar, The Goddess Within has a lovely, far-off old European sheen to it.
In fact, the appearance of old European mythical beings such as fauns, nymphs, and faeries gives the novel a primordial, archetypal flavor. The roots of European fairy tale lie in the variety of old, natural forests, and Iva Kenaz explores the Bohemian version of these legends and landscapes. Berka’s name refers to ancient birch trees; fauns and nymphs hold mating revels in the woods. I love the visual and verbal references to names and meanings of archetypal symbols, which adds a gravitas to the spiritual component of the work. The Goddess Within is a beautiful example of today’s Visionary Fiction genre.
Berka, the main character of the novel, experiences self-doubt, stubbornness, pain, and terror; the loss and mystery of her parents grounds the book in psychological reality. Concurrent with this darkness is a shimmering adoration of Nature and its precious magical properties. I found myself reading slowly, luxuriating in the book’s worlds, even when the story picked up excitement and speed. The coming of age story has great innocence; Berka marvels equally over her first cup of wine as the spirit power in a tree. Berka’s doubts and recklessness may be around shifting planes of existence, but they are also the self-esteem and impulse control issues of a teen. J.K. Rowling pulls off this blend of magical conflicts and real adolescent problems, but where the Harry Potter series feels contemporary and familiar, The Goddess Within has a lovely, far-off old European sheen to it.
In fact, the appearance of old European mythical beings such as fauns, nymphs, and faeries gives the novel a primordial, archetypal flavor. The roots of European fairy tale lie in the variety of old, natural forests, and Iva Kenaz explores the Bohemian version of these legends and landscapes. Berka’s name refers to ancient birch trees; fauns and nymphs hold mating revels in the woods. I love the visual and verbal references to names and meanings of archetypal symbols, which adds a gravitas to the spiritual component of the work. The Goddess Within is a beautiful example of today’s Visionary Fiction genre.
February 18, 2016
I really enjoyed this story, which takes place partly in the 1600s in Italy, and partly in a parallel world, inhabited with mythical creatures that the main character, Berka, gets acquainted with. Berka and her father lived the life of hermits, choosing the closeness of nature over the city life, where Berka would probably be charged with witchcraft due to her spiritual abilities. But she didn’t come to know an evil side of human nature, until a gang of bandits came to settle not too far from Berka and her father’s cottage, and soon the young girl discovered the bandits’ leader’s true sinister motives.
The mythical aspect, together with love line – not only Berka and Giss’s, but also her parents’ incredible story, was captivating. The beautiful nymphs and fauns pull you into their magical world, where they have to confront the ancient evil. The reflections about the humans’ violent nature and the impact they’re having on nature and the world also resonates with today’s problems. A great, magical read!
The mythical aspect, together with love line – not only Berka and Giss’s, but also her parents’ incredible story, was captivating. The beautiful nymphs and fauns pull you into their magical world, where they have to confront the ancient evil. The reflections about the humans’ violent nature and the impact they’re having on nature and the world also resonates with today’s problems. A great, magical read!
March 14, 2016
In giving this book two stars, I'm not saying that this is a terrible book, just that throughout reading it I felt it simply wasn't for me, just not my style of book! If you like symbolic, spiritual fantasy stories with a heavy focus on the inner self/ self-discovery, then this may very well be for you.
I found the writing style overly-poetic at times with some unusual word choices and the whole story lacked in pace for me. I also didn't feel any connection to any of the characters, and subsequently didn't care too much about their own journeys. It's a story which focuses heavily on Berka truly understanding who she is and what her purpose is in life. Unfortunately I found the naivety of Berka frustrating and unlikeable.
I'm a huge fan of fantasy and books with some form of magic, but I just wasn't convinced by the magic in this book. I think I must like my magic more structured and explained, rather than being linked to the power within, spirit guides etc. It was all a bit convenient and just overall, not for me!
I found the writing style overly-poetic at times with some unusual word choices and the whole story lacked in pace for me. I also didn't feel any connection to any of the characters, and subsequently didn't care too much about their own journeys. It's a story which focuses heavily on Berka truly understanding who she is and what her purpose is in life. Unfortunately I found the naivety of Berka frustrating and unlikeable.
I'm a huge fan of fantasy and books with some form of magic, but I just wasn't convinced by the magic in this book. I think I must like my magic more structured and explained, rather than being linked to the power within, spirit guides etc. It was all a bit convenient and just overall, not for me!
May 1, 2016
What a beautifully written, enchanting and compelling pagan based visionary novel this is...WOW!
I am fond of Iva Kenaz's unique, fresh writing style and when I held this book in my hands for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised when I noticed it has 126 pages more than The Witch Within, thus promising much more reading pleasure. And The Goddess Within has fulfilled that promise in every way!
Just like in her previous novels, I was immediately drawn into the story from the first words to the very last sentences reading about Berka's self-discovery and her growth, about mythical creatures, european mythology,runes, sacred geometry,natural magic and paralel realms-and it goes even deeper than that. This is a well researched and very well written novel, I enjoyed every single word of it and I am willing to read it more times. The cover is -as in Iva's previous novels- designed by Gunnar Tryggvason and the illustrations are made by Ivana Axman, I like her art very much!
I would like to thank Iva Kenaz for writing this magnificent novel and I am hoping for more to come.
I am fond of Iva Kenaz's unique, fresh writing style and when I held this book in my hands for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised when I noticed it has 126 pages more than The Witch Within, thus promising much more reading pleasure. And The Goddess Within has fulfilled that promise in every way!
Just like in her previous novels, I was immediately drawn into the story from the first words to the very last sentences reading about Berka's self-discovery and her growth, about mythical creatures, european mythology,runes, sacred geometry,natural magic and paralel realms-and it goes even deeper than that. This is a well researched and very well written novel, I enjoyed every single word of it and I am willing to read it more times. The cover is -as in Iva's previous novels- designed by Gunnar Tryggvason and the illustrations are made by Ivana Axman, I like her art very much!
I would like to thank Iva Kenaz for writing this magnificent novel and I am hoping for more to come.
April 30, 2016
Iva Kenaz is an extraordinary writer. This is metaphysical novel at its best. I suggest picking up the Witch within before reading this one although it could be read as a standalone novel. The story is set in the 16th century and you can tell author’s knowledge and interest in Sacred Geometry has made it a thoughtful and intriguing read. Throughout the story readers could feel the beautiful writing with interesting surroundings.
All the characters are well developed and likeable. I loved Berka’s character. She is innocent and caring and at the same time curious to be more clear about her identity. Giss’s character is interesting as well.
If you have interest in knowing more about witch craft or spiritualism or reading a book that has a magical feel try this one. You’ll not disappointed.
Five star for a well written story with feel good characters and a really interesting read which take readers into an immersing mystical world.
All the characters are well developed and likeable. I loved Berka’s character. She is innocent and caring and at the same time curious to be more clear about her identity. Giss’s character is interesting as well.
If you have interest in knowing more about witch craft or spiritualism or reading a book that has a magical feel try this one. You’ll not disappointed.
Five star for a well written story with feel good characters and a really interesting read which take readers into an immersing mystical world.
September 28, 2015
Review to come I loved this book--the language, the philosophy, the scenery painted by Iva Kenaz's choice of language and descriptions--all of it comes together in a beautiful story.
With each book Iva gets better and better, exploring themes that are dark and yet giving her protagonists the majesty of choice at each step of the way. It is a recurring theme throughout The Goddess Within and it is beautifully portrayed in such a way that is easy to understand and relate to one's own life.
There is romance, pain, loss, mystery and magic in this book and, as such , it is not a book to be missed.
With each book Iva gets better and better, exploring themes that are dark and yet giving her protagonists the majesty of choice at each step of the way. It is a recurring theme throughout The Goddess Within and it is beautifully portrayed in such a way that is easy to understand and relate to one's own life.
There is romance, pain, loss, mystery and magic in this book and, as such , it is not a book to be missed.
November 15, 2015
From the first paragraph, I knew I was going to enjoy this story. It's poetic and mysterious and certain to both entertain and enlighten. If you're looking for a fast-paced, action-packed story, then this probably isn't the book for you. But, if you're looking for something deeper and symbolic that delves into the human spirit, I think this is a book you'll want to read.
It's about a girl's journey not only to save the world and people she loves, but also about her looking into herself--to come to terms with the light and shadow in her life. The author has done much research, and the book is filled with many pagan references and lovely illustrations. A definite thumbs up read.
It's about a girl's journey not only to save the world and people she loves, but also about her looking into herself--to come to terms with the light and shadow in her life. The author has done much research, and the book is filled with many pagan references and lovely illustrations. A definite thumbs up read.
April 17, 2016
When I read that this story is inspired by ancient European mythology, pagan philosophy and Sacred Geometry symbolism I was very intrigued. I was not disappointed! The story holds all those elements within a great story. The Goddess Within is a mystical and spiritual story set in the 16th century Italy. It is a unique story with interesting characters. Berka is a compelling character. The creatures - nymphs and fauns amongst others are fascinating and I want to be in there magical world.
Kenaz’s talent for creating an atmospheric fantasy world is commended. The story is well researched and well-written. The illustrations are amazing. Well done!
Kenaz’s talent for creating an atmospheric fantasy world is commended. The story is well researched and well-written. The illustrations are amazing. Well done!
May 26, 2016
Thank you Goodreads for sending me this book. This is the first book I have read by this author and it is an enjoyable read. If you enjoy myths, legends and fantasies I am sure you will also enjoy it. It is very well written and I loved the language that is used. The book follows a young woman ”Berka” who lives an idyllic life with her father. This changes when bad/dangerous men arrive and her father has to hide her. The book reads like a fairy tale and I think it will appeal to a wide reading audience. It is set in 19th Century Italy, which, for me, helps the feel of the story.
October 8, 2015
I had come across this novel from a friend, and although it is not my typical genre, I found it to be a good read. The story reminded me of the tales of mythology with a blend of philosophical themes of ancient times. The main character, Berka goes through several cycles of self discovery as she must choose between her traditional way of life vs forging her own unique path. I think that young-adult readers would really enjoy this book.
October 11, 2015
I loved the story line of this book and the plot. I recently read another book by this author and loved it, so I was very excited to read another. The plot was fun in this book and very mystical. Enjoyed the characters and I loved how they interacted with each other. Becka was a strong female lead and I loved her personality. I think that the author has another strong, well-written book here that everyone should read!
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