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The One True Child #1

Sentinels: Book 1 Part 1 of The One True Child Series

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The world is still new and the war between Order and Chaos is reaching its breaking point. But Order has a plan. The One True Child is born to two of Order’s Sentinels and hidden in the secret valley which guards the way to the most sacred of spots, the standing stones. Brought up by the Guardian of the Stones and her family, Carling does not know who she is and why she was born. Until she turns thirteen. The truth is revealed and she comes into her abilities which are beyond the normal for one of The People. And her story begins, setting her on the path to meet Chaos.

265 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 29, 2017

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1298 people want to read

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L.C. Conn

21 books758 followers

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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Jacob Rundle.
Author 3 books165 followers
January 23, 2019
I received a copy of this novel in exchange for a true and honest review. I enjoyed the book. I am a fan of all fantasy stories. In Sentinels, Order realizes that it needs..well...order, so the Sentinels are created. Beings of immense power and strength. When Order's plan doesn't goes as planned, it creates a special child. A One and True Child. The story centers around her journey of self-discovery; choices and their mistakes.
The characters are interesting. I wish that they showed more emotion. The "show" vs "tell" idea came to me many times when reading this story.
There were a few times when my attention wandered, but I still enjoyed the story. It is an interesting and good read! Give it a try!
Profile Image for Natasha.
67 reviews27 followers
March 11, 2018
Really enjoyed this book and became engrossed in the storyline and the characters. Was a really powerful hero quest story with strong women characters. The story really cleverly entwines mythic legends and folklore with ancient gods and goddesses with the beginning of the world and the natural order of things. It makes for an emotional and spiritual journey where you explore different value and belief systems and shed a few tears along the way.
Profile Image for Grady.
Author 51 books1,821 followers
November 11, 2018
‘Chaos has no place in this world’

New Zealand born Australian author L.C. Conn has discovered that cosmic glow that allows her reader to make sense of the order of the universe, all in the format of a coming of age story. L.C. is a mother who is battling breast cancer and has transformed her life situation into a significant epic - the One True Child Series - which proves to be not only a sensitive examination of the coming of age time of each of our lives, but takes that discovery/recognition sequence into the realm of philosophy, a survey of good versus evil/chaos versus order and the permutations those poles have on each of us. And she manages to tie this all together in the form of young lass Carling.

Opening her world for us L.C. makes fine use of artistic covers that draw us into the epic. Stepping into Book 1 we discover the polished quality of her prose: ‘The rage knew no bounds as he held the world in his fist. He had created it to be his and his alone—for the people he had brought to life to serve only him and his ways. They did not appreciate what he had done for them—they had wanted more, demanded more. Now his rage would be the last thing they knew as he squeezed the world and brought it all to an end, creating a vast explosion that lit up the darkness surrounding him. A pinpoint of light grew and spread, for a moment blinding him, and he roared in displeasure. The light encompassed all, sending out waves, pulsating deep into the reaches of the universe. Fragments of the old world riding the shockwaves were flung into the depths. Fiery-hot chunks burning brightly spun out of control, attracting rock and minerals to circle them. As the spread of the explosion began to slow, the fragments began to cool. In the centre of the explosion, the bright light continued to shine; from its core, a Being became conscious and rose from the wreckage, glowing brightly with swirls of white light under Its skin. The Being looked around and found a universe in chaos; order and stability were lost to the winds. It stood and looked out at the remains of a great world, gathering its memories to Itself. One large piece of rock It stood on, circling the star that warmed the ground at Its feet, and the Being began to weep for those who had been destroyed. All the history and the suffering they had endured under their cruel master brought forth great sobs from the Being. The tears It shed dripped down from Its eyes and onto the ground. So many tears for the loss of so many that a river began to run. The river flowed away from the grief-stricken Being and filled all the low spaces on the rock, collecting into great lakes and seas. The sadness, the Being had felt, now turned to rage, and It struck the ground with Its fist. The land split, and the great molten core that had not yet cooled swelled up and burst out of the gap It had made. The hot magma created new land and boiled away some of the water, creating a great steam cloud that hung in the sky.’ The setting is cinematic and the story begins.

L.C. distills the plot well – ‘In his rage, Chaos destroys the world he created.
From his destruction, Order is born. Order brings forth pure beings known as Sentinels. From the Sentinels comes the One True Child. Carling, raised as a normal daughter of The People, was brought up to believe in the value of love and caring, of kindness and tolerance, only to learn of the darker, more sinister teachings of Chaos and his plans for her. Forced to face her fears, she must leave the only family she has known, and the protection of the valley in the Sacred Lands. Her journey takes her far from the life she knew and closer to her destiny. Along the way she masters untapped abilities of her heritage. Chaos hunts Carling until their ultimate encounter. Can Carling stand as the Sword of Order? Failure means the destruction of her world. Carling cannot fail.’

And we are committed to following this exceptional opening to a world that seduces our imagination and provides sensitivity to that state of awakening. An excellent overture!
Profile Image for Travis Borne.
35 reviews4 followers
May 22, 2020
An imagination sparker from the first word to the last! The forces of good and evil at the highest levels, from God-level perspective to the lowest and most ignorant levels in the times of old. Sentinels, by Loraine Conn, packs a universe-sized punch—now this is a story a reader can melt into. Myriad landscapes, colorful countrysides, oceans and secret islands, and above all, home sweet home…
SPOILERS MAY FOLLOW!
A god raised as a human, young Carling is given the most special of gifts, entrusted with unimaginable power and for lack of better words, she is handed the key to the future, to the universe and all there is and will be. But, can she save it?
This fantastic beginning to a multi-novel saga dives into be-all endings and utter destruction, as well the all-consuming chaos that devours everything until—darkness, pitch black, the ultimate void… But then, out of nowhere there’s a spark, a glimmer of hope. Bright light shines, new beginnings arise. In itself it’s the grand reason for everything that is and can be. But is this new spark of light, some order among the chaos, enough on its own? Can Order prevent Chaos from eating everything up once again? Maybe... but the cards have likely fallen into this same pattern countless times. It doesn’t have to be like that, though, because this time there’s hope. There’s a new plan and she, is very special…
Tarl’a, Carling’s human mother, raises her humbly, and Mailcon, her father, shows her unconditional love, as do her brothers, and life is good for a time. Her human family gives her what gods cannot. This is beyond their light, it’s beyond what Order, and even Chaos are made up of. It’s more than the sum of the components of the universe.
Sentinels is a journey from start to finish in the lives of a family. It’s beginnings, again. It’s a fresh chance. And this time around it includes someone extraordinary: The One True Child. Because humans are special and Gods are special, but not enough in their right to prevent the encroaching clash. That said, Carling, the special one, with her brothers at her side, just may be able to stop Chaos this time around. And therein hope lies.
The many characters of Sentinel make up an amazing team, including wolves and the muscle of determined mortal men and women—and Carling. And Carling grows, she becomes a capable, attractive, can-do powerful woman! Wonder Woman, WATCH OUT, Sentinels is here!
I highly recommend this book! This story plunges the reader into myriad well-described lands, be it by soaring though the skies, gazing down at an encroaching Roman Empire while avoiding Chaos—until the time is right—or venturing across land and sea, embarking on epic adventures where meetings with various gods take place and even, engaging in rescues of women in danger of being ravaged by Chaos and his possessed soldiers…
…and larger-than-life clashes… Clash of Titans—epic adventures! And transforming mutations and unexpectedness that’ll blow your mind! As I said earlier, this is a tale a reader can melt into. There’s plenty of gripping emotion. The story runs full gamut: an entire human lifespan, from the beginning of it all way before that until the life of the one special being, an infant, and then to old age; Sentinels rock-solidly sets up the pins for future sequels! Throughout it hints at thought-provoking possibilities to come. This is a tale I think women will particularly love, but also, men who are romantics and sentimental, with a fearless adventurous side—as well readers of all ages!
Sentinels was extremely well edited. It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed such perfection. I don’t think I found a single spelling error, and if you are an avid reader, especially a writer, you well know how difficult this is to achieve. Saying all this, I only found three things which can add a scintilla of critique to this novel…
One, there’s tons of semicolons, and in dialog, too. One sentence reads: “No, she does not. Typical female; it doesn’t matter the species, they are all the same.” And in the next paragraph a sentence reads: “No; as you can see, I am here with you, passing her instructions on to you and Galen.” But, no big deal really. It’s just a stupid peeve.
Two: the omnipotence of the characters. Sometimes they decide to use their powers of flight, sometimes they simply teleport from place to place, and sometimes they journey arduously: How shall we travel today? A long trek or by instantaneous teleport?
Three: “Who’s speaking?” It’s many times placed at the far end of lengthy dialog. I found myself skipping ahead to find out who’s talking. Is Red speaking now, or yellow? Or is it Blue, or Orange? I had to turn the page some at times, or scroll to the bottom to find out who.
All said and done, I had to dig deep to find anything significant as far as critiquing goes. My final rating for Sentinels, The One True Child: 5 out of 5 fantastic stars!
The next novel in the series, “Watch out, HERE I COME!”

PS. This book took me longer than usual to read, but NOT because of the story! It’s this current Corona Virus crap. It has my focus all screwed up.
82 reviews1 follower
July 19, 2023
Fascinating story in the beginning - i really enjoyed it except for the many typos. Unfortunately, the last 1/4 of the book was incredibly sappy & i could barely finish it, skipping paragraphs & even pages just to get to the end.
Profile Image for Doris Mahala.
372 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2022
Sentinels (Book 1)

You will cry!
You will want to scream!
You will enjoy!
You will laugh!
You will get mad!
This is a page turner!
67 reviews
July 3, 2023
Awesome

Couldn't put this book down. Loved it. It was awesome and well written. I hope all sho read it get ad much joy from it as I did.
Profile Image for Jessica Bronder.
2,015 reviews31 followers
January 25, 2019
Chaos created the world but didn’t like how it ended up so he destroyed it. Out of the destruction came Order and beings known as the Sentinels. From two Sentinels came the One True Child, Carling. Carling is raised as a child in the world being raised with all things good. But then she learns of evil and darkness and her destiny, to stand up to Chaos who wants to destroy her. Carling has to leave the only home she has ever known to learn how to use her abilities and become the Sword of the Order.

This is an amazing world that has been created with an unexpected savior. Carling is only thirteen when she learns about her past and who she is to become. She is scared beyond measure but she will either grow into her role or be stopped by Chaos.

It was so easy to fall into this colorful world. Drawn into a wonderful story that is brutal and amazing at the same time. I felt for Carling but she becomes forged into the strong weapon the world needs.

I love this story and can’t wait to read the next book in the series. The Sentinels will appeal to any fantasy lover. Make sure to get your copy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Profile Image for H.M. Holten.
Author 4 books53 followers
October 31, 2018
Carling is destined to save the world. A compelling read
Fantasy. A fight between order and chaos, vaguely set in Britain around the Roman invasion. Ms Conn plays with the idea of a secret domain, which could be Logres of the Arthurian myth. This realm is hidden within the country, but contrary to the Arthurian legend it’s probably located in Scotland. The sentinels, guardians of the old way of life, present an interesting idea as well: a play with colours – representing the rainbow. Could they represent the rainbow bridge of Norse mythology? No doubt, Ms Conn knows her myths and has an affinity with the occult history of Britain. She shares that with authors such as CS Lewis, AE Waite, and Charles Williams. This is no scientific thesis though: it is a captivating story about the One True Child, the heroine and a strong female protagonist. She lives and learns to fight and love through her connection with an extensive gallery of individuals. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Jessica.
1,628 reviews54 followers
January 21, 2019
Sentinels is everything I want in a fantasy. Richly developed characters, beautiful world building and gripping from start to finish.

Caring is an extraordinary character. Her compassion for the people she loves was something really moving to read. L.C. Conn has masterfully woven characters full of life into a fantastical world with magic, adventure and action.

I really enjoyed this book and am really looking forward to the rest of the series. If you’re a fantasy lover like I am, check this one out.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
Profile Image for Valery.
1,500 reviews57 followers
October 15, 2018
Sentinels: Book 1, Part 1 of the One True Child Series by L C Conn is a great start to this series with a solid introduction into the worlds of Chaos and Order, both battling for survival. This is truly a coming of age story in the fantasy genre with Carling, our female protagonist, taking on the challenge of winning and defeating chaos. Well structured, plenty of action and tension make this book a winner. With mythic legends and folklore mixed in, this story is truly set apart from the rest, The author has a wonderful way of describing scenes, setting the stage for a fluid story with interesting characters. A solid plot, strong sense of urgency, and fast pace keep the story moving along until the end. Highly recommend and looking forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Mark Carnelley.
Author 2 books68 followers
July 11, 2019
This is a book that truly fires the imagination of the reader. A fantastical working of the age-old beginning of the world scenario with the good v evil of Order & Chaos a wonderful creation. The addition of the Sentinels and their clans and how everything blends in seamlessly with historical events is a testament to the brilliance of the author Loraine Conn and her imagination and research.
Carling, the heroine of this saga, is a wonderful character who develops as the story unfolds. She is the One True Child, conceived by two of the Sentinels, and placed with a human family for protection and to develop her powers.
I absolutely loved this first book and look forward to reading the rest of the series which I already have.
A five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read for a wonderful saga.
Profile Image for Tamara Beach.
18 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2018
I enjoyed reading Sentinels as I edited it. L.C. Conn has created a world that's interwoven with our own, where the forces of good and evil are constantly battling for control of all people. But the people of this world have special abilities that help them fight back—one in particular, the heroine of the story, who's tough and strong yet grounded and sweet. Sentinels is more than just a fantasy...it has elements of romance, battle scenes, and tug-on-the-heartstrings scenes that will make you reach for the tissues. It's a good read that will leave you ready for Book 2...which comes out in April!
Profile Image for H.M. Irwing.
Author 31 books44 followers
February 24, 2018
I loved it!

L C Conn has an amazing pen and a unique attention to detail. She takes great pains to build her characters and give them life.

Carling grows from an untried youth to a formidable opponent. Her trials and triumphs urge us on in this incredible journey.

The fantastical world L C Conn builds is imbued in magic. A unique mix of the old with the imagines.

A must read for all fantasy lovers. An incredible read for fantasy romance lovers.

Action, adventure and magic- the Sentinels have it all.
Profile Image for Reading Right.
15 reviews
November 14, 2018
The Fantasy genre is one of the most popular among young people. I am not a big fantasy or sci-fi fan however my friend recommended L.C. Conn books. I was sceptical at the beginning, but when I finished '' Sentinels'' I could not wait to read another book of that series.
,,Sentinels'', in my opinion is a really good book with a captivating story. The emotions that I felt during reading were different and were dependent on the main character situations, which I liked.
The book is worth reading. Surprisingly good.

Profile Image for Glow.
7 reviews
March 12, 2018
A well woven tale of myths and gods with strong female characters

This book grabbed me from the start with its richly developed characters and moving descriptions of landscapes you feel immersed in. The myths and folk lore were woven through the well paced plot and the story lines very moving. This was one of those books that’s hard to put down and I cannot wait for the next in this series!
Profile Image for Glow.
7 reviews
March 12, 2018
This book grabbed me from the start with its richly developed characters and moving descriptions of landscapes you feel immersed in. The myths and folk lore were woven through the well paced plot and the story lines very moving. This was one of those books that’s hard to put down and I cannot wait for the next in this series!
Profile Image for P.S. Winn.
Author 105 books367 followers
March 14, 2020
Years ago the sentinels hid a child away. Turning thirteen, Carling who always wondered about who she is, finds out why. Her destiny takes her into danger and away from the world she knew. This is an adventure story I think many will enjoy.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews

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