What do you think?
The Last Messenger of Zitol
Taken captive to the magnificent kingdom of Zitol, an ancient American city with a passion for food, gold, and human sacrifice, Rishi is forced to decide between betraying her virtue or being sacrificed to the city's pagan gods.
304 pages, Perfect Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 9, 2016
This book is about Rishi who gets taken captive to the great city of Zitol, about which her grandfather used to tell her fantastic stories. Rishi gets chosen as the Messenger, which means she'll be sacrificed to the gods in a year. Her future seems really bleak until she meets Nadal, who is supposed to be the king of Zitol but is being shoved aside by the awful Speakers...
This was a rather unique story. I honestly haven't read anything quite like it. Although it was written in the point of view of Nadal, the story was actually all about Rishi and her sacrifice to remain true to her virtue, so this made for a very interesting narrative. I also thought the story carried a very powerful message.
I really liked the relationsip between Rishi and Nadal, especially how it grew from friendship into something more and changed Nadal into a better person than he was raised to be. I also adored the bond Rishi shared with her brothers.
The Last Messenger of Zitol was in one word: magnificent. It was well-written, I loved the setting of this fictional city in ancient Mexico and the two protagonists were wonderful to read about, especially the heroine of the story, Rishi. This book couldn't have been any more perfect. I loved it.
This was a rather unique story. I honestly haven't read anything quite like it. Although it was written in the point of view of Nadal, the story was actually all about Rishi and her sacrifice to remain true to her virtue, so this made for a very interesting narrative. I also thought the story carried a very powerful message.
I really liked the relationsip between Rishi and Nadal, especially how it grew from friendship into something more and changed Nadal into a better person than he was raised to be. I also adored the bond Rishi shared with her brothers.
The Last Messenger of Zitol was in one word: magnificent. It was well-written, I loved the setting of this fictional city in ancient Mexico and the two protagonists were wonderful to read about, especially the heroine of the story, Rishi. This book couldn't have been any more perfect. I loved it.
June 12, 2016
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book. I haven't read the author's debut, The Cenote, although after having read this one, I may. Her style is similar to that of Shannon Hale, very thoughtful while emphasizing deep and layered character development.
The author's choice of setting is perhaps my favorite aspect of the story. I've been to ancient Mayan ruins and was intrigued by their brutal games and ancient symbols. I can tell that Dyreng has researched the Mayans extensively and it felt very real, but the best part about this book is how she wove the setting, the characters, and the religious aspect together into a fantasy story that is both beautiful and haunting.
Dyreng introduces two protagonists, but the story is told from the male's point of view despite the fact that it's really about Rishi. This gives her a reverent, legendary feel. But having said that, I feel that while Rishi is a virtuous and pure heroine, she also has a strength that makes her instantly lovable and very relatable. She's a true heroine. Although Dyreng could have easily turned this into a preachy story about virtue and purity, I felt her touch was masterful and delicate. I would recommend this book for anyone, woman or man, teen or adult. This story is nothing short of exquisite, its message timely and desperately needed in today's world.
The author's choice of setting is perhaps my favorite aspect of the story. I've been to ancient Mayan ruins and was intrigued by their brutal games and ancient symbols. I can tell that Dyreng has researched the Mayans extensively and it felt very real, but the best part about this book is how she wove the setting, the characters, and the religious aspect together into a fantasy story that is both beautiful and haunting.
Dyreng introduces two protagonists, but the story is told from the male's point of view despite the fact that it's really about Rishi. This gives her a reverent, legendary feel. But having said that, I feel that while Rishi is a virtuous and pure heroine, she also has a strength that makes her instantly lovable and very relatable. She's a true heroine. Although Dyreng could have easily turned this into a preachy story about virtue and purity, I felt her touch was masterful and delicate. I would recommend this book for anyone, woman or man, teen or adult. This story is nothing short of exquisite, its message timely and desperately needed in today's world.
June 25, 2016
4.5 Stars
Steeped in an ancient culture, THE LAST MESSENGER OF ZITÓL will take readers on a journey of danger and romance they won't soon forget. It's a story full of heartbreak, a people bent on violence, family and friendship, and a budding romance. Perfect for readers who enjoyed THE CENOTE or books with adventure, sacrifice, and love.
One thing that strikes me about both of this author's books is how powerful they are and how she doesn't sugar-coat anything. This story was blunt and strong and beautiful. It showed the wildness of this culture and how morality shifted as the people became uneducated and selfish, everyone acting for themselves and for no one else. Then there is Rishi who has grown up in an island community where the exact opposite is true. Everything is about the community and the role each individual member plays. They work hard and love fiercely. There was such a stark contrast in this story, which worked perfectly for the way the characters and the story itself evolved.
Rishi and Nadal. They are so naive in so many ways, but their hearts are open (although one of them is a little more stubborn in wanting to change than the other). It made me think about the type of person I would be if I was raised with being told and taught one thing, not learning to read, being fed lies my whole life, not having anyone who loved me to help or care, and then combining that with being almost completely unrestricted and rich. That is Nadal's past. Then there is Rishi who was raised almost completely opposite to that. Again, a stark contrast. It was interesting how their relationship began, grew, and changed. There were times I was annoyed with them here and there, but I also completely got it.
This is definitely an emotional read. It is also quite dark and violent in places, which fits the story and the culture, so it all feels realistic to the situation. I connected easily with Rishi and Nadal and then wanted to cheer them on as the story progressed. There are parts that are shocking and terrible and then others that are so very sweet, making for a balanced story.
In the end, was it what I wished for? Yes. This author has a way of completely immersing the reader in this ancient world and bringing characters to life. I can't wait to see what she writes next!
Content: Innuendo, violence, sacrificial murder, referenced rape.
Source: Received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher, which did not affect my review in any way.
Steeped in an ancient culture, THE LAST MESSENGER OF ZITÓL will take readers on a journey of danger and romance they won't soon forget. It's a story full of heartbreak, a people bent on violence, family and friendship, and a budding romance. Perfect for readers who enjoyed THE CENOTE or books with adventure, sacrifice, and love.
One thing that strikes me about both of this author's books is how powerful they are and how she doesn't sugar-coat anything. This story was blunt and strong and beautiful. It showed the wildness of this culture and how morality shifted as the people became uneducated and selfish, everyone acting for themselves and for no one else. Then there is Rishi who has grown up in an island community where the exact opposite is true. Everything is about the community and the role each individual member plays. They work hard and love fiercely. There was such a stark contrast in this story, which worked perfectly for the way the characters and the story itself evolved.
Rishi and Nadal. They are so naive in so many ways, but their hearts are open (although one of them is a little more stubborn in wanting to change than the other). It made me think about the type of person I would be if I was raised with being told and taught one thing, not learning to read, being fed lies my whole life, not having anyone who loved me to help or care, and then combining that with being almost completely unrestricted and rich. That is Nadal's past. Then there is Rishi who was raised almost completely opposite to that. Again, a stark contrast. It was interesting how their relationship began, grew, and changed. There were times I was annoyed with them here and there, but I also completely got it.
This is definitely an emotional read. It is also quite dark and violent in places, which fits the story and the culture, so it all feels realistic to the situation. I connected easily with Rishi and Nadal and then wanted to cheer them on as the story progressed. There are parts that are shocking and terrible and then others that are so very sweet, making for a balanced story.
In the end, was it what I wished for? Yes. This author has a way of completely immersing the reader in this ancient world and bringing characters to life. I can't wait to see what she writes next!
Content: Innuendo, violence, sacrificial murder, referenced rape.
Source: Received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher, which did not affect my review in any way.
December 29, 2018
I loved this book! The setting is unique—a pre-Columbian Aztec-type society, complete with new world foods, feather headdresses, stone temples, and bloodthirsty rituals. The characters are really well done, even the secondary ones. Rishi is a young woman from a wholesome, pious island who is kidnapped and taken to Zitol to be a human sacrifice. Nadal is the king-to-be of Zitol, but his regents don’t teach him anything useful and don’t let him have any power. I think that’s about all I’ll say, so I don’t ruin the plot for others. It’s a good one!
Note: This book has some general religious themes that are skillfully woven into the story. Also, some dark subjects, but I liked they way they were handled.
Note: This book has some general religious themes that are skillfully woven into the story. Also, some dark subjects, but I liked they way they were handled.
August 5, 2016
This is a breathtakingly beautiful book! I was completely enveloped in the setting--the sights, smells, and tastes. (I want a tortilla smothered in meat and avocado...now!) I just adored Rishi from the very beginning. I love her courage and spirit and passion for truth. I was hooked from the first sentence and read the first page twice before I continued because it was SO good! It just got better from there. There are deep, and sometimes hard, issues dealt with in this book, and Chelsea Dyreng handles them masterfully. My favorite pages are at the very end. Thought-provoking and inspiring. Truly beautiful.
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September 27, 2016
The story is told by Nadal (The future king of Zitol). He starts off telling you that this book was written by him. He is conceited and self absorbed. He tells you about Rishi and that she is pure and nothing like him and that she has to die. Well that got my attention! But as the book goes on, he starts to grow on you. He has his own opinions on his future kingdom. But the Speakers have changed the way things are done over time and they basically run things and Nadal realizes that he is only a puppet and just stops trying.
He tells the story of how Rishi became the last messenger of Zitol. Rishi lived on a remote island and her grandfather taught her to read and taught her values and virtue. The whole island was full of good people. Rishi was stolen from her island with some other young girls. They were going to be sold. They would either be the messenger or be concubines. The girls had no knowledge of this as they are innocent. While in captivity they learn some of their fate. One girl is raped. I really disliked their time in captivity. It was stressful to read and wished that part could have been shorter.
Rishi becomes the messenger. She is tested and tried but Rishi remains steadfast in her virtue and her standards and accepts what her fate will be. She dislikes the people there but continues to hope and pray for help from the gods. She becomes friends with Nadal but they keep their friendship a secret. She teaches him to read and as he learns to read he gathers knowledge that changes the way he thinks and what he believes. He also starts to fall for Rishi.
"When a person is kind and virtuous and displays honor and tolerance - such as you do- 'beauty' ceases to become a label that can come and go with your appearance. 'Beauty' is who you are. No matter what you look like, whether you are old or young, wide or thin, tall or short, blue eyed, brown eyed, or have one of each, that has no bearing on defining beauty. Even if you have a scar across your face, if your teeth fall out or if you lose your hair... your virtue makes you beautiful in a way that eclipses any physical trait. True beauty isn't a way to describe a person, it is a person."
The story has a great moral to it! Rishi is an amazing character that you route for! I loved how Nadal changes over time! I cried! I laughed at Rishi’s brothers! I enjoyed the conversations that Nadal had with Leema. Ugh! I just loved everything but the sorrow with the girls in the middle of the book.
I’ve been to Machu Picchu before and in my head it all took place there. It worked for me!
If you like pagan rituals, holding your breath under water, islands, books about virtue, remaining steadfast in your belief, Evil leaders, and stories with sacrifices, temple gods, family, the color blue, being able to read, and then this might be for you!
He tells the story of how Rishi became the last messenger of Zitol. Rishi lived on a remote island and her grandfather taught her to read and taught her values and virtue. The whole island was full of good people. Rishi was stolen from her island with some other young girls. They were going to be sold. They would either be the messenger or be concubines. The girls had no knowledge of this as they are innocent. While in captivity they learn some of their fate. One girl is raped. I really disliked their time in captivity. It was stressful to read and wished that part could have been shorter.
Rishi becomes the messenger. She is tested and tried but Rishi remains steadfast in her virtue and her standards and accepts what her fate will be. She dislikes the people there but continues to hope and pray for help from the gods. She becomes friends with Nadal but they keep their friendship a secret. She teaches him to read and as he learns to read he gathers knowledge that changes the way he thinks and what he believes. He also starts to fall for Rishi.
"When a person is kind and virtuous and displays honor and tolerance - such as you do- 'beauty' ceases to become a label that can come and go with your appearance. 'Beauty' is who you are. No matter what you look like, whether you are old or young, wide or thin, tall or short, blue eyed, brown eyed, or have one of each, that has no bearing on defining beauty. Even if you have a scar across your face, if your teeth fall out or if you lose your hair... your virtue makes you beautiful in a way that eclipses any physical trait. True beauty isn't a way to describe a person, it is a person."
The story has a great moral to it! Rishi is an amazing character that you route for! I loved how Nadal changes over time! I cried! I laughed at Rishi’s brothers! I enjoyed the conversations that Nadal had with Leema. Ugh! I just loved everything but the sorrow with the girls in the middle of the book.
I’ve been to Machu Picchu before and in my head it all took place there. It worked for me!
If you like pagan rituals, holding your breath under water, islands, books about virtue, remaining steadfast in your belief, Evil leaders, and stories with sacrifices, temple gods, family, the color blue, being able to read, and then this might be for you!
September 13, 2016
***4.5 stars***
This book was not what I expected. That is a compliment to Chelsea Dyreng. She has once again surprised me with her writing and story.
Rishi is a young woman living an idealistic life on her island home with her family. She has everything she needs and wants, except an adventure to Zitol. She listens to her Grandfather's stories about the city and imagines it to be a wonderful place. She quickly learns the truth when she is kidnapped from her home and taken to the city. It is not a place of wonder, but a corrupt society that thrills in human sacrifice.
She makes an unexpected ally in the narrator of the story. This book is an adventure of an ancient past. I love the fictional setting that explore issues that the people of ancient America lived. This book also has a Cenote, a thing I was unaware of until Dyreng's first book, The Cenote.
Dyreng is an author that I will look forward to reading in the future. She has a way with words and description. I could imagine her setting and the people. She has amazed me once again.
The book contains innuendo, a non-graphic rape, and violence.
This book was not what I expected. That is a compliment to Chelsea Dyreng. She has once again surprised me with her writing and story.
Rishi is a young woman living an idealistic life on her island home with her family. She has everything she needs and wants, except an adventure to Zitol. She listens to her Grandfather's stories about the city and imagines it to be a wonderful place. She quickly learns the truth when she is kidnapped from her home and taken to the city. It is not a place of wonder, but a corrupt society that thrills in human sacrifice.
She makes an unexpected ally in the narrator of the story. This book is an adventure of an ancient past. I love the fictional setting that explore issues that the people of ancient America lived. This book also has a Cenote, a thing I was unaware of until Dyreng's first book, The Cenote.
Dyreng is an author that I will look forward to reading in the future. She has a way with words and description. I could imagine her setting and the people. She has amazed me once again.
The book contains innuendo, a non-graphic rape, and violence.
October 1, 2016
I loved the author's first book, "The Cenote," so I was excited for this book! Rishi lives on an island and loves hearing her grandfather's stories about Zitol. When she is a teenager, a tragedy occurs on her island and she and four other girls are kidnapped. They are scared and do what they can to survive. When they get to their destination, they learn the horrible truth of why they were kidnapped and Rishi once again fights to survive.
I'm glad to say that I loved this book, too! Rishi's life on the island was fascinating. She was sheltered, safe and happy. Then she was kidnapped. There were parts of that experience that were hard to read and the author did a great job getting those points across without going into graphic detail. Rishi showed great courage even during times when the consequences could have been severe.
I hoped that Rishi's life would improve when she got to Zitol, but it was also full of challenges. She was surrounded with characters that were hard to like and ready to mold her into someone else, and I hoped she would stay strong. The book is narrated by Nadal, the young, selfish king. He was a character that I wasn't impressed with at all, and I kept hoping my opinion of him would change.
This book is full of great lessons and layers so I'm sure I'll get even more out of it next time I read it. One lesson I found especially interesting was that the people in Zitol couldn't read so they were dependent on the leaders to teach them what they felt was important to know. So, yes, you can imagine who got the most benefit from that. This is a book I will definitely share with my daughter when she gets a little older. Due to the content (violence, innuendo, and references to rape--all within context of the culture they live in), I would recommend it to more mature readers. It's an amazing book and well worth reading! I'm already looking forward to the author's next book!
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
I'm glad to say that I loved this book, too! Rishi's life on the island was fascinating. She was sheltered, safe and happy. Then she was kidnapped. There were parts of that experience that were hard to read and the author did a great job getting those points across without going into graphic detail. Rishi showed great courage even during times when the consequences could have been severe.
I hoped that Rishi's life would improve when she got to Zitol, but it was also full of challenges. She was surrounded with characters that were hard to like and ready to mold her into someone else, and I hoped she would stay strong. The book is narrated by Nadal, the young, selfish king. He was a character that I wasn't impressed with at all, and I kept hoping my opinion of him would change.
This book is full of great lessons and layers so I'm sure I'll get even more out of it next time I read it. One lesson I found especially interesting was that the people in Zitol couldn't read so they were dependent on the leaders to teach them what they felt was important to know. So, yes, you can imagine who got the most benefit from that. This is a book I will definitely share with my daughter when she gets a little older. Due to the content (violence, innuendo, and references to rape--all within context of the culture they live in), I would recommend it to more mature readers. It's an amazing book and well worth reading! I'm already looking forward to the author's next book!
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
October 30, 2016
The world needs more girls like Rishi! I love a strong female character. And I love a book with substance and a powerful message.
I smiled at the clever way Dyreng addressed important themes through Rishi's journey. Through her story, Rishi debunked several accepted traditions of Zitol, and reminded all of us the lies we are fed through pop culture and media such as: "There is only one way to get the attention of a man. You must be passionate, imploring, seductive." Or, "Let your instincts make your decisions. Follow the pleasures of your body, and as long as it doesn't interfere with the public peace it is acceptable."
There are a few mature topics, such as rape and lots of talk of virginity and the loss of it. All of it is discussed respectfully. I'd recommend this book for teens on up.
And I don't know how I missed it when I bought the book, but this is also a romance! (my fave) So I was pleasantly surprised when that started developing.
I think this book would be a good read for moms and daughters. There were some great conversations that could facilitate discussions about the hows and whys of saving sex for marriage. One of my favorite quotes: "It is good from time to time to withhold something that your body years for; it shows you have power over yourself. It shows the strength of your spirit. Like having the discipline to wake up early in the morning when you could sleep all day. Or showing mercy to someone who has wronged you, or even something as simple as being in possession of a delicious sugar apple and giving half of it away to someone else."
I smiled at the clever way Dyreng addressed important themes through Rishi's journey. Through her story, Rishi debunked several accepted traditions of Zitol, and reminded all of us the lies we are fed through pop culture and media such as: "There is only one way to get the attention of a man. You must be passionate, imploring, seductive." Or, "Let your instincts make your decisions. Follow the pleasures of your body, and as long as it doesn't interfere with the public peace it is acceptable."
There are a few mature topics, such as rape and lots of talk of virginity and the loss of it. All of it is discussed respectfully. I'd recommend this book for teens on up.
And I don't know how I missed it when I bought the book, but this is also a romance! (my fave) So I was pleasantly surprised when that started developing.
I think this book would be a good read for moms and daughters. There were some great conversations that could facilitate discussions about the hows and whys of saving sex for marriage. One of my favorite quotes: "It is good from time to time to withhold something that your body years for; it shows you have power over yourself. It shows the strength of your spirit. Like having the discipline to wake up early in the morning when you could sleep all day. Or showing mercy to someone who has wronged you, or even something as simple as being in possession of a delicious sugar apple and giving half of it away to someone else."
June 3, 2016
Waiting is so hard! I started writing Rishi's story SIX YEARS AGO and I am so excited for this book to finally make its debut. Rishi's story is about courage, determination and sacrificing all for life's greatest prize: Real Love. This is the book I would have ached for as a young woman, and I know that there are many determined young women and men who will find Rishi to be a fellow ally in their search for what matters most. I can't wait for you to read this book!
September 12, 2016
I neglected all cleaning and chores Saturday so I could finish reading Chelsea Dyreng’s The Last Messenger of Zitol. My bed wasn’t made, there were toys all over the floor, and I didn’t go grocery shopping, but I didn’t regret it. My couch hadn’t felt so comfortable and exciting in quite some time.
Chelsea is someone I know personally, and she is my friend, but I would never give an embellished book review, even for a friend. I will honestly say that I loved this book. It took me a little while to really get completely enveloped in the story (I attribute that to being a tired, pregnant lady), but once I did, I couldn’t tear my eyes or emotions away.
The story had many evil, dark, tragic, dangerous moments, but what was most compelling were the messages of truth woven throughout like a bright, intricate tapestry (I just thought I’d add a simple simile since this author loves them. Don’t worry – she is better than I am at them).
At a certain point in the book, when our main characters (Rishi and Nadal) came together, helped, and learned from each other, I found myself folding down the corners of multiple pages, marking messages of wisdom, love and light. I could see clear parallels between Rishi’s gods and their teachings, to those of the Savior, Jesus Christ. The messages in this book are numerous and worthy of introspection.
I was incredibly impressed by the Seven Songs, sung and recited throughout the book. Music truly does have such a powerful effect on the soul – from the lyrics, to the tune, to the heart of the person singing. The multiple dreams in the novel were also brilliantly crafted, as well as the descriptions of the landscapes and buildings in the book. I could feel that these were real beaches, jungles, and civilizations.
The characters of the book were believable and real. Some were so fearsome or despicable, that you held your breath to find out what they were going to do next. Others were confusing in their intentions – sometimes you liked them and sometimes you really didn’t. Some were liars and only interested in lust and power. There were some who inspired awe and reverence from their wisdom and choices. Then there were the ones who were searching, and others trying to survive. I was pleased with how many of these characters went through changes of heart, a major theme of this book. All of their stories were different, but interconnected.
Both of the main characters – Nadal, the future king of Zitol, and Rishi, the virtuous maiden chosen to be that year’s messenger of Zitol – were characters I learned to love and care about. Rishi was brave, loyal, virtuous, and full of integrity. She was forgiving, kind, and loving. Nadal was a lot different than her. He was more self-serving, prideful, and limited in his desire to help others. But, through his desire to learn, and his interactions with the beautiful Rishi, his heart and motivations slowly change. He too becomes a courageous person, willing to sacrifice for the benefit of others.
The contrast of lust verses romance in the book was stark, as was the contrast of literal sacrifice verses inner sacrifice. There are so many subjects that can be discussed in a book club setting, and I am sure my book club will read this book together happily.
I loved the title of the book, the description on the back, the Introduction, and the contrast between third person and first person narrative. It surprised me initially who the first person character was, but I really enjoyed it, for he was the one whose transformation would be the catalyst to change the city of Zitol and its people.
Other than the occasional heavy use of similes in the book, I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it to teenage and adult readers. The Last Messenger of Zitol is sure to capture the hearts of people of all circumstances, and will hopefully inspire us to be better versions of ourselves.
ablisscomplete.com
Chelsea is someone I know personally, and she is my friend, but I would never give an embellished book review, even for a friend. I will honestly say that I loved this book. It took me a little while to really get completely enveloped in the story (I attribute that to being a tired, pregnant lady), but once I did, I couldn’t tear my eyes or emotions away.
The story had many evil, dark, tragic, dangerous moments, but what was most compelling were the messages of truth woven throughout like a bright, intricate tapestry (I just thought I’d add a simple simile since this author loves them. Don’t worry – she is better than I am at them).
At a certain point in the book, when our main characters (Rishi and Nadal) came together, helped, and learned from each other, I found myself folding down the corners of multiple pages, marking messages of wisdom, love and light. I could see clear parallels between Rishi’s gods and their teachings, to those of the Savior, Jesus Christ. The messages in this book are numerous and worthy of introspection.
I was incredibly impressed by the Seven Songs, sung and recited throughout the book. Music truly does have such a powerful effect on the soul – from the lyrics, to the tune, to the heart of the person singing. The multiple dreams in the novel were also brilliantly crafted, as well as the descriptions of the landscapes and buildings in the book. I could feel that these were real beaches, jungles, and civilizations.
The characters of the book were believable and real. Some were so fearsome or despicable, that you held your breath to find out what they were going to do next. Others were confusing in their intentions – sometimes you liked them and sometimes you really didn’t. Some were liars and only interested in lust and power. There were some who inspired awe and reverence from their wisdom and choices. Then there were the ones who were searching, and others trying to survive. I was pleased with how many of these characters went through changes of heart, a major theme of this book. All of their stories were different, but interconnected.
Both of the main characters – Nadal, the future king of Zitol, and Rishi, the virtuous maiden chosen to be that year’s messenger of Zitol – were characters I learned to love and care about. Rishi was brave, loyal, virtuous, and full of integrity. She was forgiving, kind, and loving. Nadal was a lot different than her. He was more self-serving, prideful, and limited in his desire to help others. But, through his desire to learn, and his interactions with the beautiful Rishi, his heart and motivations slowly change. He too becomes a courageous person, willing to sacrifice for the benefit of others.
The contrast of lust verses romance in the book was stark, as was the contrast of literal sacrifice verses inner sacrifice. There are so many subjects that can be discussed in a book club setting, and I am sure my book club will read this book together happily.
I loved the title of the book, the description on the back, the Introduction, and the contrast between third person and first person narrative. It surprised me initially who the first person character was, but I really enjoyed it, for he was the one whose transformation would be the catalyst to change the city of Zitol and its people.
Other than the occasional heavy use of similes in the book, I absolutely loved it and highly recommend it to teenage and adult readers. The Last Messenger of Zitol is sure to capture the hearts of people of all circumstances, and will hopefully inspire us to be better versions of ourselves.
ablisscomplete.com
March 11, 2022
Really enjoyed this, many themes throughout the story. Family, virtuous and honest living, selfishness in society.
September 16, 2016
All I can say after reading The Last Messenger of Zitol is WOW! Chelsea creates such a vivid description of a time, place, and culture that is foreign to me. She has a knack for drawing the reader so far into the world she's created that we can feel the sea spray on our faces and taste the juicy sweetness of the indigenous fruits. And when Rishi is languishing in the tower, waiting to die, we feel her hunger.
Chelsea expertly weaves underlying messages throughout the story, like hidden gems among the words. There were several times where I silently applauded Dyreng for her ability to create such a masterful tale with such exquisite language and the perfect amount of humor.
The story of Rishi and her friends centers around virtue, and the polished white beads the girls wear to show that they are pure, holy, untainted, and unspoiled. The moment a girl loses her virginity, her white bead is taken away and replaced by one of the appropriate color. If you're married you get a blue bead, if you're a concubine, you receive a purple one. When Rishi and her friends are kidnapped by savages, all I want is for the girls to retain their virtue. And when one of the girls has her virtue stolen from her, the reader mourns for her loss.
The kidnapped girls are taken to Zitol where every spring a virgin maiden is sacrificed as a prayer to the gods. The wickedness of this city was eye-opening. The people of Zitol are carnal and lustful, and the gods they worship are cruel and demanding. It is only through the power and virtue of one girl—Rishi—that people begin to recognize truths that have been kept from them for years by evil leaders.
Here is one of my favorite lines from the book (Rishi says this to the king, also known as the Anointed One):
"The gods are not sending rain to reward your obedience. They are weeping over your mistakes."
And of course, there's a wonderful love story that is equally matched by the underlying theme of a magnificent change of heart. The narrator is a selfish king who is merely a puppet for the Speakers around him. But the moment he meets Rishi, in the months before her sacrifice, everything changes. She sees in him the good that no one else does. She inspires him to be better, to seek truth, and to honor her virtue. And when they fall in love, it is sweet and beautiful.
So you're probably wondering what happens to Rishi. Does she live? Does she die in the annual sacrifice? Well, you'll just have to read the book to find out! :)
I give this book 2 thumbs up, 5 glowing stars, and 10 painted toenails. :) I absolutely loved it!
Chelsea expertly weaves underlying messages throughout the story, like hidden gems among the words. There were several times where I silently applauded Dyreng for her ability to create such a masterful tale with such exquisite language and the perfect amount of humor.
The story of Rishi and her friends centers around virtue, and the polished white beads the girls wear to show that they are pure, holy, untainted, and unspoiled. The moment a girl loses her virginity, her white bead is taken away and replaced by one of the appropriate color. If you're married you get a blue bead, if you're a concubine, you receive a purple one. When Rishi and her friends are kidnapped by savages, all I want is for the girls to retain their virtue. And when one of the girls has her virtue stolen from her, the reader mourns for her loss.
The kidnapped girls are taken to Zitol where every spring a virgin maiden is sacrificed as a prayer to the gods. The wickedness of this city was eye-opening. The people of Zitol are carnal and lustful, and the gods they worship are cruel and demanding. It is only through the power and virtue of one girl—Rishi—that people begin to recognize truths that have been kept from them for years by evil leaders.
Here is one of my favorite lines from the book (Rishi says this to the king, also known as the Anointed One):
"The gods are not sending rain to reward your obedience. They are weeping over your mistakes."
And of course, there's a wonderful love story that is equally matched by the underlying theme of a magnificent change of heart. The narrator is a selfish king who is merely a puppet for the Speakers around him. But the moment he meets Rishi, in the months before her sacrifice, everything changes. She sees in him the good that no one else does. She inspires him to be better, to seek truth, and to honor her virtue. And when they fall in love, it is sweet and beautiful.
So you're probably wondering what happens to Rishi. Does she live? Does she die in the annual sacrifice? Well, you'll just have to read the book to find out! :)
I give this book 2 thumbs up, 5 glowing stars, and 10 painted toenails. :) I absolutely loved it!
September 21, 2016
This book is amazing! I loved reading every bit of it. I loved the characters, the plot, the setting. Every bit of it really sucked me in and made me want to continue reading until the very end...but I'm getting ahead of myself.
I loved the way that at the beginning of the book, it's narrated by a character that we haven't met yet, so we don't know who it is. I haven't seen a book done quite this way before this one and it made it super fun.
I liked all of the villagers on Rishi's island. I love the way that they care for their young women and teach them about virtue and just how much their virtue is worth. I loved seeing Rishi's friends later on and how they had learned for themselves how much virtue was worth by going through the experiences they did. And I loved the way a certain character went about convincing them that they were still okay.
I LOVED Rishi. I loved the way she was so sure of herself, her life, family, and virtue. Even when almost everything was taken from her, she was not willing to give up what was important to her. And I loved the way she was willing to sacrifice herself in order to hopefully help her brothers.
I liked Nadal's character as well. I liked the way he was able to learn a lot about himself, and how to treat others throughout the book. i really loved the way he was in the end.
This book was an enchanting adventure from beginning to end! I loved every bit of it!
I was sent an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the way that at the beginning of the book, it's narrated by a character that we haven't met yet, so we don't know who it is. I haven't seen a book done quite this way before this one and it made it super fun.
I liked all of the villagers on Rishi's island. I love the way that they care for their young women and teach them about virtue and just how much their virtue is worth. I loved seeing Rishi's friends later on and how they had learned for themselves how much virtue was worth by going through the experiences they did. And I loved the way a certain character went about convincing them that they were still okay.
I LOVED Rishi. I loved the way she was so sure of herself, her life, family, and virtue. Even when almost everything was taken from her, she was not willing to give up what was important to her. And I loved the way she was willing to sacrifice herself in order to hopefully help her brothers.
I liked Nadal's character as well. I liked the way he was able to learn a lot about himself, and how to treat others throughout the book. i really loved the way he was in the end.
This book was an enchanting adventure from beginning to end! I loved every bit of it!
I was sent an e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2016
This was a fantastic read. The narrator, the selfish young king, is witty and a joy to read. He pulled me along so easily through this story, and when it finished, I almost wanted to cry because I didn’t want it to end. Rishi is a young girl with three mischievous older brothers who kind of torture her in her youth. They grow up on an island, learning stories about the great city of Zitol from her grandfather. When Rishi is a teenager, a tragedy happens to the people on her island and she is stolen and taken away to Zitol with a few other girls her age. There she learns that the great city she learned about has terrifying traditions, including human sacrifice. The author did a fabulous job of showing the horrid side of life while keeping it clean. The theme is virtue, and I was blown away by how the author worked this into a riveting, adventurous, touching story. I started this with half a heart. I had a lot of books to read and review, and this seemed like just another chore to get out of the way. I ended by raving about it to my two teenagers and telling them they had to read it. It was absolutely fantastic and will go in my favorite folder to read again in the future. Bravo, Mrs. Dyreng. This is brilliant!!! ***I received a copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
June 25, 2016
This is the second book from a wonderful author!
Rishi is raised on an island, where virtue is taught and held sacred. When she is a teenager, her island is attacked and all of the virgins are kidnapped and taken to the big city of Zitol. In Zitol she is chosen to be the virgin they will sacrifice to their gods.
This book is a fabulous read for teenage girls! Rishi is a strong example of having moral courage, even in the face of death!
Chelsea Dyreng has a gift of creating fabulous characters in unique settings, faced with dilemmas that our society faces today. Her blend of adventure, history, and powerful messages of morality is a style all of her own. This is an author you will not want to overlook!
Rishi is raised on an island, where virtue is taught and held sacred. When she is a teenager, her island is attacked and all of the virgins are kidnapped and taken to the big city of Zitol. In Zitol she is chosen to be the virgin they will sacrifice to their gods.
This book is a fabulous read for teenage girls! Rishi is a strong example of having moral courage, even in the face of death!
Chelsea Dyreng has a gift of creating fabulous characters in unique settings, faced with dilemmas that our society faces today. Her blend of adventure, history, and powerful messages of morality is a style all of her own. This is an author you will not want to overlook!
August 11, 2016
I really enjoyed the authors first book, The Cenote, so I jumped at the chance to read an advanced copy of this new book. I read it out loud to my teenage daughter while she was on the couch recovering from surgery and I will always look back on this time as a magical time where we were both transported to a different time and world.
Chelsea is a gifted storyteller and her books have been page tuners for me. This book is about a teenage girl who is kidnapped by dogmen because of her virtue. She is taken to a new land and has an quite the adventure.
This story isn't only entertaining but it is also inspiring. Both my daughter and I have been changed from the inside out because of this book.
Chelsea is a gifted storyteller and her books have been page tuners for me. This book is about a teenage girl who is kidnapped by dogmen because of her virtue. She is taken to a new land and has an quite the adventure.
This story isn't only entertaining but it is also inspiring. Both my daughter and I have been changed from the inside out because of this book.
September 26, 2016
I enjoyed reading this story and especially liked Rishi and her brothers. It was cool to read a story that placed a lot of emphasis and value on sexual purity because that's not something you often see. It might make for a difficult read for someone with an abuse history or shame issues because of some of the content in the tale. One girl is raped during the story, though it's not graphically described.
I liked the messages about sacrifice and love and felt like they were well-integrated into the story. I liked Dyreng's use of dreams in the tale as well.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I liked the messages about sacrifice and love and felt like they were well-integrated into the story. I liked Dyreng's use of dreams in the tale as well.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 12, 2016
My endorsement:
A natural storyteller, Chelsea Dyreng has crafted an ancient adventure that readers will love! Written from multiple viewpoints, Chelsea has a unique way of writing that brings her characters and their stories to life the moment you turn the first page. I could not put this novel down!
An ARC of the book was provided by the author.
A natural storyteller, Chelsea Dyreng has crafted an ancient adventure that readers will love! Written from multiple viewpoints, Chelsea has a unique way of writing that brings her characters and their stories to life the moment you turn the first page. I could not put this novel down!
An ARC of the book was provided by the author.
September 26, 2016
This is a Goodreads win review. This is a really good book about Rishi and she gets kidnapped and taken to Zitol and she might get sacrificed to appease the Gods. She decides to make friends with The selfish King to try and stay alive. The book has an ancient theme to it.
September 24, 2016
loved this book! it was nothing like I had expected it to be. Read my full review on my blog! http://bondingoverbindings.blogspot.c...
Want to Read
June 24, 2016I am so excited!!! I loved The Cenote and this looks just as good!
August 2, 2018
What? A character who remains a virgin throughout the story, not because she is sexually repressed but because she understands what virtue is? She doesn't even succumb to "true love". I didn't think they wrote books like this anymore. Especially ones that have a unique plot, too.
Rishi and the other young women from her island have been captured to be human sacrifices for Zitol, Because the girls wear a white bead as a symbol of their purity, they are easy prey for the wicked people who capture them to sell them to the priests. Throughout it all, Rishi keeps faith with her gods and the Seven Songs-her people's scripture. She hopes to be saved in Zitol, the land of her grandfather.
Zitol isn't what she expects and is nothing like her grandfather described. The people are violently wicked , the priest are corrupt and she is separated from her friends. The only good thing is she makes friends with a prince who is sick of being a figurehead and wants to learn how to read so he can go up against the priests.
I received a free copy in exchange for a review. Wish there were more books like this out there.
Rishi and the other young women from her island have been captured to be human sacrifices for Zitol, Because the girls wear a white bead as a symbol of their purity, they are easy prey for the wicked people who capture them to sell them to the priests. Throughout it all, Rishi keeps faith with her gods and the Seven Songs-her people's scripture. She hopes to be saved in Zitol, the land of her grandfather.
Zitol isn't what she expects and is nothing like her grandfather described. The people are violently wicked , the priest are corrupt and she is separated from her friends. The only good thing is she makes friends with a prince who is sick of being a figurehead and wants to learn how to read so he can go up against the priests.
I received a free copy in exchange for a review. Wish there were more books like this out there.
August 10, 2017
Once I got into this book I couldn't put it down. The only issue I had was that I'm not a huge fan of first person narratives so I had to get past that. The characters were amazing and well developed. It was a completely unexpected book for me and I found myself surprised by the twists and turns the story took. Towards the end you could definitely tell that it was written by an LDS author but it was still incredible. Definitely will read again one day.
January 20, 2017
This book is fabulous! It is inspiring, joyful and light despite the fact that there is murder and mayhem in it. I came away from this book with a light heart and smile on my face. I am more enchanted with the world and the goodness that resides within people because of what Rishi experienced within this book. Thank you!
January 11, 2017
3.5 stars. It was a 4 star book until the ending when it became unbelievable and a bit too cliche. At times I felt it was also a little slow and quite predictable (you know she's not going to die), but I still really enjoyed the book. I like that virtue is celebrated and goodness is praised.
April 22, 2021
This is Chelsea Dyreng's second novel. I love how both of her books involve Mesoamerica and, yet, they are very different. The story is very engaging and I really enjoyed watching the transformation of one of the main characters.
March 27, 2022
An amazing story. I was hooked from the beginning. Loved all the themes, symbolisms, values, virtues and the way Rishi honored them and taught them. An interesting way to view the different understanding of people's view and worship of God.
June 12, 2018
A great read with an lush setting, characters you want to root for, and a fantastic message.
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