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Records of the Ohanzee, #3
Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose
Beware of the spirit that guards the book in the cave.
After fending off an ambush by Senka operatives, Nerissa and her Ohanzee companions seek refuge in the mountain province of Rhea. With the drawbridges raised and the borders secure, they have left the Senka behind for now, but they may have traded one perilous situation for another. Although the third book is in Rhea, it has been hidden deep within an abandoned mine where it is protected by a cunning trap. Retrieving the book means facing both natural and supernatural threats, and Nerissa will learn that crystals hold power far greater than she ever imagined. Meanwhile, Desta, daughter of the renowned seer Shea, reveals that she has begun to have prophetic dreams of her own—and she is not the only member of the group with an awakening talent.
Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose is Book 3 of 4 in the Records of the Ohanzee series, which is written in a serialized style with a story line that flows continuously between books.
After fending off an ambush by Senka operatives, Nerissa and her Ohanzee companions seek refuge in the mountain province of Rhea. With the drawbridges raised and the borders secure, they have left the Senka behind for now, but they may have traded one perilous situation for another. Although the third book is in Rhea, it has been hidden deep within an abandoned mine where it is protected by a cunning trap. Retrieving the book means facing both natural and supernatural threats, and Nerissa will learn that crystals hold power far greater than she ever imagined. Meanwhile, Desta, daughter of the renowned seer Shea, reveals that she has begun to have prophetic dreams of her own—and she is not the only member of the group with an awakening talent.
Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose is Book 3 of 4 in the Records of the Ohanzee series, which is written in a serialized style with a story line that flows continuously between books.
236 pages, Paperback
Published May 29, 2016
73 people are currently reading
718 people want to read
About the author
Rachel R. Smith
8 books133 followersReceive updates on new releases from Rachel by subscribing to her newsletter! http://bit.ly/2BBMVrR
Rachel R. Smith lives near Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and the cutest dog in the world, Sumo. When not writing, she plots to fill the interior of their home with books and mineral specimens and to cover the exterior with roses. Stay up to date on the series and learn more about Rachel by visiting her blog at http://www.recordsoftheohanzee.com or by following Records of the Ohanzee on Facebook (RecordsOfTheOhanzee), Twitter (@RRSmithAuthor), and Instagram (@rachel_r._smith).
Rachel R. Smith lives near Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and the cutest dog in the world, Sumo. When not writing, she plots to fill the interior of their home with books and mineral specimens and to cover the exterior with roses. Stay up to date on the series and learn more about Rachel by visiting her blog at http://www.recordsoftheohanzee.com or by following Records of the Ohanzee on Facebook (RecordsOfTheOhanzee), Twitter (@RRSmithAuthor), and Instagram (@rachel_r._smith).
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 13, 2016
Nerissa has lived a simple rebellion of youth, only to witness the death of her family. She escaped and began a journey that would find her part of a secret group of guardians, the Ohanzee. Now she is on a quest to find the books that foretell of a prophecy of the end of the world, a prophecy that has been set into motion by a vile and despicable King looking for more power and glory no matter the blood that must be spilled.
The race is on for the books of the prophecy, the path to it is deadly and Nerissa looks to the mountain province of Rhea for rest, refuge and to uncover the third book. So far she has traveled in disguise safely, but has she been discovered?
The third book is hidden deep within a mine, its protection spell is deadly, but traversing the barriers is the only way for the rightful intended to retrieve the tome. What if it is handled by someone not permitted? Will the fury and pain of lost souls retaliate? The clock is ticking to save the world and the enemies are getting closer…meanwhile, Nerissa feels the normal stirrings of a young woman attracted to a young man, but revealing who she REALLY is, could be disastrous. As more is discovered about the stones and new powers are awakening, will things finally start looking up for the unlikely band of heroes?
Rachel R. Smith’s Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose (Records of the Ohanzee, #3) feels like a journey to a magical plane, but that world has a slight haze to it as one brave young princess and the secret society by her side strive to stay shrouded in the shadows. As always, from start to finish there is motion in the words, be it from high octane action to high stress emotions and the need to conquer evil. Ms. Smith’s ability to make her characters leap off the pages is phenomenal as they play off one another, whether good or evil. Feel the intrigue, see the world they live in and prepare for the last leg of the race for the world, because it’s coming!
I do love Ms. Smith’s style of writing, there is as much power in her words as there are in the stones she writes about. Rachel R. Smith makes me feel anything can happen and know never to try to predict what the next page will hold!
I received this copy from Rachel R. Smith in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Records of the Ohanzee - Book 3
Publication Date: May 29, 2016
Publisher: Rachel R. Smith
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 198 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
The race is on for the books of the prophecy, the path to it is deadly and Nerissa looks to the mountain province of Rhea for rest, refuge and to uncover the third book. So far she has traveled in disguise safely, but has she been discovered?
The third book is hidden deep within a mine, its protection spell is deadly, but traversing the barriers is the only way for the rightful intended to retrieve the tome. What if it is handled by someone not permitted? Will the fury and pain of lost souls retaliate? The clock is ticking to save the world and the enemies are getting closer…meanwhile, Nerissa feels the normal stirrings of a young woman attracted to a young man, but revealing who she REALLY is, could be disastrous. As more is discovered about the stones and new powers are awakening, will things finally start looking up for the unlikely band of heroes?
Rachel R. Smith’s Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose (Records of the Ohanzee, #3) feels like a journey to a magical plane, but that world has a slight haze to it as one brave young princess and the secret society by her side strive to stay shrouded in the shadows. As always, from start to finish there is motion in the words, be it from high octane action to high stress emotions and the need to conquer evil. Ms. Smith’s ability to make her characters leap off the pages is phenomenal as they play off one another, whether good or evil. Feel the intrigue, see the world they live in and prepare for the last leg of the race for the world, because it’s coming!
I do love Ms. Smith’s style of writing, there is as much power in her words as there are in the stones she writes about. Rachel R. Smith makes me feel anything can happen and know never to try to predict what the next page will hold!
I received this copy from Rachel R. Smith in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Records of the Ohanzee - Book 3
Publication Date: May 29, 2016
Publisher: Rachel R. Smith
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 198 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 26, 2016
Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose is the third book in this series, and I have to say that it's my favorite so far!
"I knew you were strong, but I didn't know you were this strong," Rian said.
"You're full of surprises. That's one of the things I like about you."
Just like with the last installment of this series, the tone is already set for the story so that made it easy for me to dive back into this world. The story begins with Charis and Amon, once again, and Charis is discovering that Amon may not be an ally in this war after all.. I have really grown to enjoy Charis's character because of how loyal she is to Nerissa.
After learning about the troubling sickness that is spreading throughout Rhea, we go to where Nerissa and the Ohanzee are at in the story. Immediately we see how this little group has truly grown into a family, one that will do absolutely anything for one another. I am enjoying getting to know them as individuals and seeing how they have grown as friends. Like I said, the Ohanzee are my favorite part about this series.
They are still on the search for more books containing both the prophesy and crystals. The next book in their search, of course, brings many obstacles for them.. After surviving the task together, Nerissa and Rian grow closer to one another. There hasn't been much romance in the past books, but there was more throughout this one and I have to say I really enjoyed it! It's moved past the 'insta-love' route it was going in the first book to more of a 'friendship growing to something more love'. . . Which is my favorite - Rian is very swoony!
There is a lot of action backed up by all the tales told through this story. A lot more action than we've seen in the past books. I was intrigued the whole time and the most important thing is that I felt for these characters. I feel as if I've seen them truly grow and develop, and now they hold a special place in my heart.
Each character plays a role in this story still, which I appreciate. There is a lot that happens between these characters and TO these characters as the story progresses. There are revelations and truths that come forth as well. There are a few new characters introduced and we get to know our villain a little more, too.. Everyone was complex and had a role to play throughout the story which is always a good thing for me.
The story wraps up in a great way, there was a lot of action at the end which was awesome! The only downfall for me was all the information regarding the crystals.. Thankfully, there is a guide of sorts at the end of the book so that helped me remember all the things I forgot after the story ended.
"It wasn't Nerissa's first kiss, but it was the first kiss that would remain indelibly written on her heart, holding within it the promise of many more to come."
Again, the ending sets up the next installment great and I can not wait for it! Like I said, by book 3 you are definitely invested into these characters and their stories. It flows great which makes it easy to enjoy.. And unlike the first book, when the POVs switch it makes sense. I would recommend this series to everyone who enjoys fantasy reads!
"I knew you were strong, but I didn't know you were this strong," Rian said.
"You're full of surprises. That's one of the things I like about you."
Just like with the last installment of this series, the tone is already set for the story so that made it easy for me to dive back into this world. The story begins with Charis and Amon, once again, and Charis is discovering that Amon may not be an ally in this war after all.. I have really grown to enjoy Charis's character because of how loyal she is to Nerissa.
After learning about the troubling sickness that is spreading throughout Rhea, we go to where Nerissa and the Ohanzee are at in the story. Immediately we see how this little group has truly grown into a family, one that will do absolutely anything for one another. I am enjoying getting to know them as individuals and seeing how they have grown as friends. Like I said, the Ohanzee are my favorite part about this series.
They are still on the search for more books containing both the prophesy and crystals. The next book in their search, of course, brings many obstacles for them.. After surviving the task together, Nerissa and Rian grow closer to one another. There hasn't been much romance in the past books, but there was more throughout this one and I have to say I really enjoyed it! It's moved past the 'insta-love' route it was going in the first book to more of a 'friendship growing to something more love'. . . Which is my favorite - Rian is very swoony!
There is a lot of action backed up by all the tales told through this story. A lot more action than we've seen in the past books. I was intrigued the whole time and the most important thing is that I felt for these characters. I feel as if I've seen them truly grow and develop, and now they hold a special place in my heart.
Each character plays a role in this story still, which I appreciate. There is a lot that happens between these characters and TO these characters as the story progresses. There are revelations and truths that come forth as well. There are a few new characters introduced and we get to know our villain a little more, too.. Everyone was complex and had a role to play throughout the story which is always a good thing for me.
The story wraps up in a great way, there was a lot of action at the end which was awesome! The only downfall for me was all the information regarding the crystals.. Thankfully, there is a guide of sorts at the end of the book so that helped me remember all the things I forgot after the story ended.
"It wasn't Nerissa's first kiss, but it was the first kiss that would remain indelibly written on her heart, holding within it the promise of many more to come."
Again, the ending sets up the next installment great and I can not wait for it! Like I said, by book 3 you are definitely invested into these characters and their stories. It flows great which makes it easy to enjoy.. And unlike the first book, when the POVs switch it makes sense. I would recommend this series to everyone who enjoys fantasy reads!
June 20, 2016
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
I read the first books a few month ago, it it took me a moment to immerse myself back into the story, however once that was done, I was absolutely delighted to be back into this fantastic world. My only regret is that I wish the book had been longer!
First of all, I have to say I really love the writing style. I just really enjoy how it's written, and that makes reading the book extremely pleasant. And before I move further I also really love the cover of this book.
Now, on to the characters. Nerissa is still hiding under the disguise of Caeneus, and to be honest, she is doing it awesomely... Except there is trouble ahead on two sides: her voice-changing necklace is acting weird, and of course, there is Rian. I really liked what this book had in store for my favourite heiress, and I really like her character development: even though she wants to get back what is truly hers (aka the throne) she doesn't want any blodshed, she wants to do and keep things right, etc. She is really honourable, and at the same time, we see in her relationships with Raysel, Rian or Desta that she is still a very human characters. She likes being treated as equal to the others, and is a protective "big brother" to Desta, and it's really pleasant.
I also enjoy the fact that this book is not overflowing with romance, because it is obviously not the most important thing the characters have to do. At the same time, the change in the relationships between the characters (trying to remain spoiler free, that's not easy) is discreetly introduced, and the romantic aspect of the story (which is grabbing all my feels and makes me act like a crazy fangirl) is just perfect, and in the right amount! Yes, that probably doesn't seem really clear to you, but I wanted it to stay spoiler free. Let's say that the plot is slowly introducing a little bit of romance, and I had been waiting for it so I'm delighted, and it is not in the central focus, which is really pleasant, because the rest of the intrigue is awesome and should not be overshadowed!
Through this book, we saw old characters like of course, the members of the Ohanzee, and Charis. We also read about Casimer and his family, as well as the Senka. And we met new characters such as Barr, who is a really great introduction to the plot! Overall, it was really pleasant to read about them, even though reading about Casimer and the Senka irks me since, you know, they're the villain. My only regret concerning this aspect of the novel is that we didn't really get to see Shae or Ildiko, and I really like both of these badass ladies, but hopefully they will be back in the next (and final?) installment!
Overall, it was a great sequel (though my favourite remains the second book!). The story keeps evolving, and it's really refreshing. I just wish it would have been a little bit longer because I am extremely curious as to what will happen next!
I read the first books a few month ago, it it took me a moment to immerse myself back into the story, however once that was done, I was absolutely delighted to be back into this fantastic world. My only regret is that I wish the book had been longer!
First of all, I have to say I really love the writing style. I just really enjoy how it's written, and that makes reading the book extremely pleasant. And before I move further I also really love the cover of this book.
Now, on to the characters. Nerissa is still hiding under the disguise of Caeneus, and to be honest, she is doing it awesomely... Except there is trouble ahead on two sides: her voice-changing necklace is acting weird, and of course, there is Rian. I really liked what this book had in store for my favourite heiress, and I really like her character development: even though she wants to get back what is truly hers (aka the throne) she doesn't want any blodshed, she wants to do and keep things right, etc. She is really honourable, and at the same time, we see in her relationships with Raysel, Rian or Desta that she is still a very human characters. She likes being treated as equal to the others, and is a protective "big brother" to Desta, and it's really pleasant.
I also enjoy the fact that this book is not overflowing with romance, because it is obviously not the most important thing the characters have to do. At the same time, the change in the relationships between the characters (trying to remain spoiler free, that's not easy) is discreetly introduced, and the romantic aspect of the story (which is grabbing all my feels and makes me act like a crazy fangirl) is just perfect, and in the right amount! Yes, that probably doesn't seem really clear to you, but I wanted it to stay spoiler free. Let's say that the plot is slowly introducing a little bit of romance, and I had been waiting for it so I'm delighted, and it is not in the central focus, which is really pleasant, because the rest of the intrigue is awesome and should not be overshadowed!
Through this book, we saw old characters like of course, the members of the Ohanzee, and Charis. We also read about Casimer and his family, as well as the Senka. And we met new characters such as Barr, who is a really great introduction to the plot! Overall, it was really pleasant to read about them, even though reading about Casimer and the Senka irks me since, you know, they're the villain. My only regret concerning this aspect of the novel is that we didn't really get to see Shae or Ildiko, and I really like both of these badass ladies, but hopefully they will be back in the next (and final?) installment!
Overall, it was a great sequel (though my favourite remains the second book!). The story keeps evolving, and it's really refreshing. I just wish it would have been a little bit longer because I am extremely curious as to what will happen next!
March 10, 2017
Full Review to Follow@...http://www.abookishescape.com/2017/03...
The End, nothing cliffy but it has a nice smooth set up for the next book. Nerissa is working on her craft and on what her feelings mean. Certain possible bad guys have revealed themselves to be good. There are those that hold their cards close so we don’t quite know where they stand but all and all things seem to be coming to a close. I’m very excited about what’s to come. I hope we get a full background of what happened to their people explaining what lead to the fall of civilization and I hope Smith delves into the history. There are several storylines that are going to connect and I can’t wait to see what happens when they do. I know this series isn’t about romance but I sure hope we get some more in the next installment.
4.0 There’s nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. Answer’s will be revealed and oh my goodness I cannot wait filled stars!
The End, nothing cliffy but it has a nice smooth set up for the next book. Nerissa is working on her craft and on what her feelings mean. Certain possible bad guys have revealed themselves to be good. There are those that hold their cards close so we don’t quite know where they stand but all and all things seem to be coming to a close. I’m very excited about what’s to come. I hope we get a full background of what happened to their people explaining what lead to the fall of civilization and I hope Smith delves into the history. There are several storylines that are going to connect and I can’t wait to see what happens when they do. I know this series isn’t about romance but I sure hope we get some more in the next installment.
4.0 There’s nowhere to run and nowhere to hide. Answer’s will be revealed and oh my goodness I cannot wait filled stars!
January 28, 2018
My problem is that I can't write full reviews for both this and the previous book in this series! I don't know why that is so, though! It's like I don't know what to say! They are amazing reads, with a lot of action and adventure, an interesting magic system (which is based on crystals! How unique?! It's the first time I'm reading something like this), the characters are all likeable, there isn't a lot of romance and all of the books are action packed and fast paced and really short too, so they are quick and extremely good reads! Highly Recommended!
Rating: 5/5⭐️s
P.S: it only took me 2 and a half days to read this book (though they were 2 very buse days!), despite goodreads saying that it took me 6 days to read (I had updated my status into "Currently Reading" but I was too busy to start it, yeah school's starting soon😭)
Rating: 5/5⭐️s
P.S: it only took me 2 and a half days to read this book (though they were 2 very buse days!), despite goodreads saying that it took me 6 days to read (I had updated my status into "Currently Reading" but I was too busy to start it, yeah school's starting soon😭)
November 15, 2017
Rating 5
“Beware of the spirit that guards the book in the cave…” Nerissa and the Ohanzee company have been on the run…barely steps ahead of King Casimer”s men as the dreams of Shae and the prophecy of 600 years continues to unfold. There are unlikely allies, budding romance and a storm on the horizon with incredible choices to be made. A test in the cave to retrieve a book could end in deadly disaster. The world is set, the characters have developed as the story storms towards a climax with each side racing to obtain the final pieces to save a world or destroy it, And I found myself right in the midst of it all. When an author can pull you in like that…it is, indeed, magic...
“Beware of the spirit that guards the book in the cave…” Nerissa and the Ohanzee company have been on the run…barely steps ahead of King Casimer”s men as the dreams of Shae and the prophecy of 600 years continues to unfold. There are unlikely allies, budding romance and a storm on the horizon with incredible choices to be made. A test in the cave to retrieve a book could end in deadly disaster. The world is set, the characters have developed as the story storms towards a climax with each side racing to obtain the final pieces to save a world or destroy it, And I found myself right in the midst of it all. When an author can pull you in like that…it is, indeed, magic...
July 3, 2018
Great Adventure
Third book in the series down, one more to go. I enjoyed the journey, the traveling, the fighting scenes and the different revelations along the way. The comraderie of the group and how the main characters interact and respond. The prophecies are interesting and just an enjoyable read over all. I don't want to give too much away. You need to read it yourself.
Third book in the series down, one more to go. I enjoyed the journey, the traveling, the fighting scenes and the different revelations along the way. The comraderie of the group and how the main characters interact and respond. The prophecies are interesting and just an enjoyable read over all. I don't want to give too much away. You need to read it yourself.
February 6, 2017
Review to come
May 5, 2017
4.5 Stars!
And so Nerissa and the Ohanzee continue their mission to find the books containing the precious crystals in the spines and the hidden prophecies.
The most troublesome book to find yet, the location is known, but recovering the book could be quite dangerous.
Either way it must be done, and I must say I've found this book the most exciting of the three so far!
I just adore Raysel, he's such a sweet, tough guy - open your eyes Nerissa!!!!!!
I've never really been a fan of Rian, he comes across as a bit of a ladies man. But that's just my opinion.
Desta now has something to offer to the group, it seems she takes after her mother after all and this is of great advantage to the Ohanzee.
Romance, yes romance is finally in the air. With Nerissa's disguise possibly being comprimised, this leads to a bit of romance that I think will grow stronger in book four.
So the main difference between the Senka of Marise and the Ohanzee of Chiyo is the Senka is very modern in technology, medicine, ect. The Ohanzee believe in traditional methods of medicine - herbs, ect.
The books with the crystals in the spines tell of a terrible illness that will spread and cannot be healed by modern medicine. This causes a problem for Marise as they don't use traditional medicine. The Ohanzee already have the traditional cure but the King does not know of this.
Nerissa and the Ohanzee continue their search for the books but what if one has fallen into the wrong hands.......
And so Nerissa and the Ohanzee continue their mission to find the books containing the precious crystals in the spines and the hidden prophecies.
The most troublesome book to find yet, the location is known, but recovering the book could be quite dangerous.
Either way it must be done, and I must say I've found this book the most exciting of the three so far!
I just adore Raysel, he's such a sweet, tough guy - open your eyes Nerissa!!!!!!
I've never really been a fan of Rian, he comes across as a bit of a ladies man. But that's just my opinion.
Desta now has something to offer to the group, it seems she takes after her mother after all and this is of great advantage to the Ohanzee.
Romance, yes romance is finally in the air. With Nerissa's disguise possibly being comprimised, this leads to a bit of romance that I think will grow stronger in book four.
So the main difference between the Senka of Marise and the Ohanzee of Chiyo is the Senka is very modern in technology, medicine, ect. The Ohanzee believe in traditional methods of medicine - herbs, ect.
The books with the crystals in the spines tell of a terrible illness that will spread and cannot be healed by modern medicine. This causes a problem for Marise as they don't use traditional medicine. The Ohanzee already have the traditional cure but the King does not know of this.
Nerissa and the Ohanzee continue their search for the books but what if one has fallen into the wrong hands.......
October 16, 2017
This book continues the story that has been unfolding in the first and second books. I will not say anymore than that because of spoilers but guys this series just keeps getting better and better. There was a lot more character development formed and there were a lot more pieces of the puzzle revealed and a romance is brewing lol I like the slow-burning romance the best in books i have noticed and this one definitely has that. Left me on the edge of my seat and wanting me to read the 4th book but at the same time I do not want to leave the world once the book is done you know? Have you ever felt that way? My rating for this book will 4.75-5 stars because of these points. Thank you so much Rachel for allowing me to read and review your books they have been really fun so far :)
April 10, 2018
I loved this series. I read the entire series back to back and I am truly hoping that the author keeps the story alive for a while longer. I want to know, what happens next!? I would recommend this series, I am shocked more people have not reviewed the books as it is highly engaging and creative. For this reason I took the time to write this as "sharing is caring!"
Happy reading! -rcc
Happy reading! -rcc
September 8, 2018
I really enjoyed this third installment of this series. I love getting to know the characters a little better and finding out what is going on as they do. I'm looking forward to seeing how this all wraps up.
Speaking of which, I'm going to start book 4 now. :)
Speaking of which, I'm going to start book 4 now. :)
April 30, 2020
Yep
I have decidedly begun to love these books! I wasn't sure at first, but each book has gotten better and better. I couldn't stop reading this one! Even more secrets were revealed, many of which I hadn't seen coming! I definitely recommend!
I have decidedly begun to love these books! I wasn't sure at first, but each book has gotten better and better. I couldn't stop reading this one! Even more secrets were revealed, many of which I hadn't seen coming! I definitely recommend!
October 22, 2017
Thorn a great third
I really enjoyed this book! It kept up with the first two and was a page-turner. I can’t wait to read the next book!
I really enjoyed this book! It kept up with the first two and was a page-turner. I can’t wait to read the next book!
June 4, 2018
Excellent.
Honestly she can’t write them fast enough for me! These are truly great book. I can’t wait to see the conclusion.
Honestly she can’t write them fast enough for me! These are truly great book. I can’t wait to see the conclusion.
October 17, 2019
The adventure continues.
I truly love this series. It is full of adventure and twist. Book 3 continues on the quest of the characters and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
I truly love this series. It is full of adventure and twist. Book 3 continues on the quest of the characters and I can't wait to find out what happens next.
December 14, 2019
This series gets better with each book!
Really enjoyed this one! Still haven't figured out as to when the timeline is set, but loved it anyway! Don't want them to end.
Really enjoyed this one! Still haven't figured out as to when the timeline is set, but loved it anyway! Don't want them to end.
October 12, 2017
This is review for Records of the Ohanzee 1-4.
Honestly when I first saw this Book 1 Reflection: The Stranger in the Mirror, I thought this is a beautiful cover. It reminder me of The Winner’s curse, The Jewel or even the Selections series. While I enjoyed those reading they all lacked the depths in which you’ll find in the Records of Ohanzee. Masterfully sculpted the words in this book bring to you Chiyo and its demise brought onto to it by King Casimer. But from the ashes rises none other than the Heir Nerissa thought to have been brought down with her parents in the epic journey of not revenge but restoration of what rightfully is her kingdom.
Rachel S. Smith has a vivid imagination that she successfully translated into word for your enjoyment. She is able to set the scene with the utmost important details to be told but yet leaving room for your imagination to expand on the image. The dialogue is intriguing, witty, thoughtful and with the help of Eloc and Cole it can be very comedic.
While traveling to try to find the 6 books that exposes the prophecy that will restore Nerissa her thrown, you watch a girl grow into the strong woman she was meant to be.
This book is more than what meets the eye. Yes….They are beautiful covers that draw you in, but the content inside will keep you wanting to stay in that realm. As I stated before the author does a commendable job with this describing the setting, but what I find the most intriguing that the story does not just follow the point of view of one or two characters. Rachel S. Smith takes the character whose viewpoint adds the most depth to the story and continuously flow through the book in such a fashion. So while one chapter maybe from Nerissa POV the next could be from Desta of Charis. (Note the author so kindly denotes whom viewpoint you reading from at the beginning of each chapter).
To read the full review ---->https://shealwaysreads.com/2017/09/14...
Honestly when I first saw this Book 1 Reflection: The Stranger in the Mirror, I thought this is a beautiful cover. It reminder me of The Winner’s curse, The Jewel or even the Selections series. While I enjoyed those reading they all lacked the depths in which you’ll find in the Records of Ohanzee. Masterfully sculpted the words in this book bring to you Chiyo and its demise brought onto to it by King Casimer. But from the ashes rises none other than the Heir Nerissa thought to have been brought down with her parents in the epic journey of not revenge but restoration of what rightfully is her kingdom.
Rachel S. Smith has a vivid imagination that she successfully translated into word for your enjoyment. She is able to set the scene with the utmost important details to be told but yet leaving room for your imagination to expand on the image. The dialogue is intriguing, witty, thoughtful and with the help of Eloc and Cole it can be very comedic.
While traveling to try to find the 6 books that exposes the prophecy that will restore Nerissa her thrown, you watch a girl grow into the strong woman she was meant to be.
This book is more than what meets the eye. Yes….They are beautiful covers that draw you in, but the content inside will keep you wanting to stay in that realm. As I stated before the author does a commendable job with this describing the setting, but what I find the most intriguing that the story does not just follow the point of view of one or two characters. Rachel S. Smith takes the character whose viewpoint adds the most depth to the story and continuously flow through the book in such a fashion. So while one chapter maybe from Nerissa POV the next could be from Desta of Charis. (Note the author so kindly denotes whom viewpoint you reading from at the beginning of each chapter).
To read the full review ---->https://shealwaysreads.com/2017/09/14...
February 26, 2017
ARC kindly provided by Rachel R. Thompson in exchange for an honest review.
Review
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
Review
'Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose' is the fourth and final instalment in the 'Records of the Ohanzee' series, and one I enjoyed very much. I really admired how easy it was to pick the novel up and just read. And read. And read. It was also one of the quickest reads AND one of the most well written I've come across from YA self-published/indie-published authors. If you're looking for something similar to 'And I Darken' or 'Ranger's Apprentice', then this series will definitely make your day.
Rachel R. Smith continues to deliver in her writing. Not one sentence sounded unpolished nor were there any awkward turns of phrases which seem to fill most self-published novels. Everything in the prose was of high quality and the experience the author has in writing definitely makes itself known. Not one typo did I spot! (I sound like Yoda!!) And reading 'Reflection: Thorn of the White Rose' was like gently immersing yourself into a warm bath, or drinking a delicious hot cocoa. Just right.
Talking of immersing oneself. I could easily and shocking quickly attach myself to Nerissa (Caenas) and all the supporting characters. Never did I feel like there was any barrier which prevented me from doing so. My only wish was that the characters had a bit more originality to them. They seemed a little too perfect for my liking, and they fit the standard mold for fantasy characters too readily. I wanted Nerissa to be just a little bit different. Just a little bit more unique. However, I have no other qualms other than that. The history and backgrounds of these characters were fairly well developed. They seemed vibrant and alive if maybe not the richest on the shelf.
This instalment continues to development of a certain love-triangle. I'm...okay...with it so far, mainly because I love my romance, and will usually put up with a lot just to see it followed through. I don't have anything about it to nit-pick at, however, I do want it to be just a little more believable. I get the feeling that Nerissa is just falling into the whole lovey-dovey thing to easily. It would have been nice to see SOME sort of resistance to the idea of a romance, or at least some explanation for it - like a more idepth look into the inner thoughts of Nerissa. I felt like Nerissa's reasoning for her attraction to her partners in crime was just a little feeble. I wanted more tension! Anticipation! Suspense! And a little bit more chemistry please!
Great plot movement in this instalment! Lots of action and heap of progress towards the finale, though I'm still not quite sure where the author is leading me. There is definitely more world-building happening here and I can't see how it all goes down in 'Reflection: Dragon's Bane'.
Congratulations to Rachel R. Smith on publishing her third instalment in the 'Records of the Ohanzee' series!
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
October 22, 2017
Rating: 4/5
This book was given to me by the author Rachel R. Smith for an honest review. This review is not affected by anything, it containts my true feelings.
After their long journey to find the rest of the books to figure out the content of the prophecy, they meet the person who claims to be the true owner of the books they’ve been searching for. They all have so many questions to ask and so many things to learn.
Nerissa wanted to learn how to use the crystals in the books. But little they know who has the power to do that. According to Barr, the owner of these books, thinks that two people in their group have the special ability to actually use them.
“No matter what the nature of their relationship was, he would always be the sword by her side.”
Even from the first book, I wanted Nerissa to be with either Raysel or Rian. Raysel would do anything for her own behalf. And this quote proves it. They are such powerful words and it shows the strong bond between them.
This book was given to me by the author Rachel R. Smith for an honest review. This review is not affected by anything, it containts my true feelings.
After their long journey to find the rest of the books to figure out the content of the prophecy, they meet the person who claims to be the true owner of the books they’ve been searching for. They all have so many questions to ask and so many things to learn.
Nerissa wanted to learn how to use the crystals in the books. But little they know who has the power to do that. According to Barr, the owner of these books, thinks that two people in their group have the special ability to actually use them.
“No matter what the nature of their relationship was, he would always be the sword by her side.”
Even from the first book, I wanted Nerissa to be with either Raysel or Rian. Raysel would do anything for her own behalf. And this quote proves it. They are such powerful words and it shows the strong bond between them.
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