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The Cecilia Series #1
Cecilia: The Last Croilar Tier
* Duration: 12 hours and 31 minutes *
A pendant. A knife. A dying goddess.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future, Vitus, the last surviving city, maintains dominance by exterminating surrounding villages and enslaving the young men. Because of Vitus’s oppression, the Goddess of Light is dying. The last bastion of goodness keeping her alive is the village of Plockton, nestled deep within the Plockton Forest. When this village falls victim to a raid, the Goddess pours her remaining light into the lone survivor, 18-year-old Cecilia.
Unaware of the precious light that she is carrying inside, Cecilia makes the bold decision to rescue her brothers. What starts out as a desire to save loved ones, becomes an epic quest, thrusting Cecilia front and center in the ultimate battle between good and evil.
Dark, dangerous and romantic, 'CECILIA' is the story of a detached assassin and a headstrong innocent, and their epic journey to save the dying Goddess of Light.
©2017 Sandra L. Rostirolla (P)2018 Sandra L. Rostirolla
A pendant. A knife. A dying goddess.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future, Vitus, the last surviving city, maintains dominance by exterminating surrounding villages and enslaving the young men. Because of Vitus’s oppression, the Goddess of Light is dying. The last bastion of goodness keeping her alive is the village of Plockton, nestled deep within the Plockton Forest. When this village falls victim to a raid, the Goddess pours her remaining light into the lone survivor, 18-year-old Cecilia.
Unaware of the precious light that she is carrying inside, Cecilia makes the bold decision to rescue her brothers. What starts out as a desire to save loved ones, becomes an epic quest, thrusting Cecilia front and center in the ultimate battle between good and evil.
Dark, dangerous and romantic, 'CECILIA' is the story of a detached assassin and a headstrong innocent, and their epic journey to save the dying Goddess of Light.
©2017 Sandra L. Rostirolla (P)2018 Sandra L. Rostirolla
13 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 30, 2017
22 people are currently reading
2101 people want to read
About the author
Sandra L. Rostirolla
5 books54 followersAWARDS & ACCOLADES:
Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2023
Ingramspark Best Selling YA Fiction
Booklife Editor's Pick
Good Housekeeping Bookclub Pick
Author Academy Award
Dante Rossetti Award
Literary Classics Award
Eric Hoffer Award - Finalist
The Wishing Shelf Award - Finalist
Booklife Prize - Semifinalist
Readers Favorite - Five Stars
Born in Sydney, Australia, Sandra's talents as a lyricist led her to her now husband, composer Kurt Oldman, who co-wrote and produced her CD, THYME. Realizing that writing, rather than singing, was her passion, Sandra began writing screenplays, making the quarterfinals of the American Screenwriters Association Screenwriting Competition, top 200 of Page International, and top fifteen percent of the Nicholl Fellowship.
She wrote and directed the short animation, The Adventures of Gilbert the Goofball, which was runner-up for Best Animation at the Action on Film Festival, and her short story, Lucky Quarter, was a finalist for the Rick DeMarinis Short Story Award.
Selected to participate in the Australians in Film Writers Room, Sandra work-shopped the screenplay version of her novel, Cecilia. She remains active with the core Alumni group, which meets monthly to review and critique each other’s work.
When she’s not imagining fantastical stories grounded by rules and reasoning, Sandra’s usually renovating something around the house, sneaking away with her husband for a last minute ski-trip, or dealing with the unruly strays that seem to enjoy terrorizing her cat.
Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2023
Ingramspark Best Selling YA Fiction
Booklife Editor's Pick
Good Housekeeping Bookclub Pick
Author Academy Award
Dante Rossetti Award
Literary Classics Award
Eric Hoffer Award - Finalist
The Wishing Shelf Award - Finalist
Booklife Prize - Semifinalist
Readers Favorite - Five Stars
Born in Sydney, Australia, Sandra's talents as a lyricist led her to her now husband, composer Kurt Oldman, who co-wrote and produced her CD, THYME. Realizing that writing, rather than singing, was her passion, Sandra began writing screenplays, making the quarterfinals of the American Screenwriters Association Screenwriting Competition, top 200 of Page International, and top fifteen percent of the Nicholl Fellowship.
She wrote and directed the short animation, The Adventures of Gilbert the Goofball, which was runner-up for Best Animation at the Action on Film Festival, and her short story, Lucky Quarter, was a finalist for the Rick DeMarinis Short Story Award.
Selected to participate in the Australians in Film Writers Room, Sandra work-shopped the screenplay version of her novel, Cecilia. She remains active with the core Alumni group, which meets monthly to review and critique each other’s work.
When she’s not imagining fantastical stories grounded by rules and reasoning, Sandra’s usually renovating something around the house, sneaking away with her husband for a last minute ski-trip, or dealing with the unruly strays that seem to enjoy terrorizing her cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
July 3, 2018
Sandra L. Rostirolla’s “Cecilia” is a tale of a future earth that has experienced the Great War. The ancestors of those who survived have eked out methods to keep themselves alive. Vitus is currently the largest settlement, and in the name of self-protection, has chosen to subdue or exterminate smaller towns and villages.
The author has created an interesting world, built upon the ashes of what was and exposing the reader to both the good and the bad of the current land. It is a well-known legend that provides the outline of the story, and Cecilia discovers herself thrust into a prophecy that she initially finds hard to believe. Her goals are more immediate, consisting of finding and rescuing her brothers from the soldiers of Titus.
The mixture of reality and a world where goddesses exist was a wrinkle that left me curious as to Ms. Rostirolla’s intentions. However, the insertions of these beings in ethereal yet almost physical form were brief, and I was happy the author didn’t dwell on the appearances.
Overall, the story is a fantasy, a tale of a quest thrust upon multiple charactes who must grow into their roles in order to fulfill a prophecy. In a wilderness glutted with these types of stories, Ms. Rostirolla keeps readers interested with her worldbuilding and the clever way she combines a legend and compels the characters to force it to become reality. The magical prose in Chapter 1 hooked me immediately, providing a firm base for a solid plot. Four stars.
My thanks to the author for a complimentary Kindle copy of this book.
The author has created an interesting world, built upon the ashes of what was and exposing the reader to both the good and the bad of the current land. It is a well-known legend that provides the outline of the story, and Cecilia discovers herself thrust into a prophecy that she initially finds hard to believe. Her goals are more immediate, consisting of finding and rescuing her brothers from the soldiers of Titus.
The mixture of reality and a world where goddesses exist was a wrinkle that left me curious as to Ms. Rostirolla’s intentions. However, the insertions of these beings in ethereal yet almost physical form were brief, and I was happy the author didn’t dwell on the appearances.
Overall, the story is a fantasy, a tale of a quest thrust upon multiple charactes who must grow into their roles in order to fulfill a prophecy. In a wilderness glutted with these types of stories, Ms. Rostirolla keeps readers interested with her worldbuilding and the clever way she combines a legend and compels the characters to force it to become reality. The magical prose in Chapter 1 hooked me immediately, providing a firm base for a solid plot. Four stars.
My thanks to the author for a complimentary Kindle copy of this book.
November 2, 2017
Couldn't. Put. It. Down.
From the beginning, I became invested in Cecilia's story. Her world of tranquility and innocence is told with such sweetness and heart that when it is torn apart by the brutal and ruthless soldiers of Vitus, you want to cry along with her. Her journey to seek justice and find her brothers places her into the path of Amalardh, a servant of Vitus sent to kill her. Like any great tale, the twists and turns of this story took me on a delightful, and at times tense filled, journey. The discovery that Cecilia is no ordinary young woman and Amalardh is no ordinary man, I couldn't put the book down. I was besotted!
The world that Ms. Rostirolla creates is fast paced and filled with action, battles, wit, and (yah!) fantasy romance (I have to admit Princess Bride kept popping into my head). The fight scenes are visually descriptive allowing my imagination to see the chaos of battle and the strength of the characters. The weaving storylines between the battle for justice and the romance between Cecilia and Amalardh never failed in moving the story forward. Ms. Rostirolla brings the characters to life and her strong narrative, along with several ingenious twists and touching love story, makes this a must read book! I loved Cecilia and Amalardh! As another reviewer stated, it draws you in until the very last page.
This is one of those books I wish was already a series so I could pick up book 2 and continue with Cecilia's story.
From the beginning, I became invested in Cecilia's story. Her world of tranquility and innocence is told with such sweetness and heart that when it is torn apart by the brutal and ruthless soldiers of Vitus, you want to cry along with her. Her journey to seek justice and find her brothers places her into the path of Amalardh, a servant of Vitus sent to kill her. Like any great tale, the twists and turns of this story took me on a delightful, and at times tense filled, journey. The discovery that Cecilia is no ordinary young woman and Amalardh is no ordinary man, I couldn't put the book down. I was besotted!
The world that Ms. Rostirolla creates is fast paced and filled with action, battles, wit, and (yah!) fantasy romance (I have to admit Princess Bride kept popping into my head). The fight scenes are visually descriptive allowing my imagination to see the chaos of battle and the strength of the characters. The weaving storylines between the battle for justice and the romance between Cecilia and Amalardh never failed in moving the story forward. Ms. Rostirolla brings the characters to life and her strong narrative, along with several ingenious twists and touching love story, makes this a must read book! I loved Cecilia and Amalardh! As another reviewer stated, it draws you in until the very last page.
This is one of those books I wish was already a series so I could pick up book 2 and continue with Cecilia's story.
June 25, 2018
So, Cecilia also talks about war. It's talks about a previous war and what happened to the citizens after the war. It's a dystopian story with fantasy and prophesies in it. It's has a lot of parallelism to real life. Also, it has a bedtime story or a children's fairy tale in it. It's not about a bear, but it's about The Flower Princess and a Wolf. I really like how this story actually is about a prophesy. And for it to be not lost or forgotten, it was cleverly turned into a harmless fairy tale that could be passed on onward, without the danger of anyone being persecuted because what can a fairy tale do?
Yes, the title is the name of the most important character in this story--Cecilia. She grew up in a village in the forest with 70 other people. She has 2 older brothers--Eideard and Rabbie. They were living peacefully and happily in their own community in this little part of the forest when suddenly a group of black horsemen came to their village and killed everyone. They took the young men, including Cecilia's brothers. Cecilia ran and evaded the leader of the murderers but lost everything that she cared about. She's the only one left standing. What to do now? How can she go on?
I love how Cecilia's character developed in the story. She started out as a very protected girl who doesn't know anything of the realities outside of their little corner of the forest. She knew death because her father died but the tragedy that has befallen her entire village was worth the grief and suffering of a hundred people. It's more than her young heart can bear. She lost everything she ever holds dear. Her home, her family, and her friends. How she found her purpose and what she needs to do to fulfill that did not come easy. She had a lot of doubts. What can a teenager do against an army and powerful enemies? But she was not alone. She found help just as what was prophesied.
The host of other characters in this story was very unexpected. It's a totally good combination and very well thought out. A lot of surprises there in terms of how one character was actually connected to another. Characters that will definitely take their own space in your heart, if you will let them. There are a lot of very memorable and adorable characters here that will surely melt your heart. Very unassuming, yet very instrumental in making the whole story work. I admit, the story is mostly about Cecilia but it doesn't just revolve around her. The other supporting characters were given enough to make them also stand on their own.
The romance angle was very unexpected. I certainly did not foresee that it was going to take that turn. But it was very very good. A guy having a change of heart because of a girl he met, does not get old. In real life, every girl wants to tame a bad boy, right? So, having included that element in the story which wasn't really obvious at first, was very nice. I did see that eventually Amalardh might fall for Cecilia because that's what happens when two people are thrown together in one place, right? When two people share the same experiences, especially difficult ones will definitely turn to each other. So, I expected that but I didn't expect that there was more. That's another good thing there.
All other elements of the story were done with great care. A lot of unexpected turns and surprises that will surely make your heart stop beating for a moment. I really enjoyed those moments. You will become a believer in Cecilia and root for her to be what she is destined to be. And as I am a great fan of heroines, this story just hit the right spot. Heroines and underdogs. The young, looked down and underestimated. All neatly packaged in this book. I want a sequel for this story. And that ending, OMG! My heart literally stopped for about 2 seconds there. I definitely could not accept if it had turned sideways. I would definitely file a protest. I would surely be sour for the rest of the month.
So, short of singing Cecilia by The Vamps loudly, I pretty much finished this book in one reading. I couldn't put it down. I'm sure, you wouldn't. You could not just leave Cecilia and her friends. You would want to be with them each step of the way. You wouldn't want to miss the adventure after learning of all the plans, because it's as if you were part of the planning team. You're part of the inner circle of rebels. You can't turn back now. It would be against everything you believe that's right and just in the world.
So, I give this book 5/5 trees of life.
Thank you Sandra Rostirolla for giving me an opportunity to read this story. It's a fantasy but it's really relevant in this modern world. We may not have prophesies or Flower Princesses or Wolf Knights to defend and save us, but we do have five-headed dragons. This dragon comes in any forms and it can be anything to anyone. This beast is our fears, our worries, our doubts, and our insecurities. Let us not let it devour us but rather fight it to the death with all our strength. We have all our own demons and it can't be defeated unless we do something. It would take a lot, just like Cecilia. She has to bury her whole village for 2 weeks. But no task is beyond a very strong and dedicated heart. Like Cecilia, we can be that Goddess of Light. Let our goodness, compassion, creativity, and kindness shine forth. We all have it in us.
How does one replace a lost heart?
The truth of man is that he does what he does based only on what he knows, and what he knows is warped by experiences, convoluted by fears, and deformed by perspective.
- Sandra Rostirolla, Cecilia -
Yes, the title is the name of the most important character in this story--Cecilia. She grew up in a village in the forest with 70 other people. She has 2 older brothers--Eideard and Rabbie. They were living peacefully and happily in their own community in this little part of the forest when suddenly a group of black horsemen came to their village and killed everyone. They took the young men, including Cecilia's brothers. Cecilia ran and evaded the leader of the murderers but lost everything that she cared about. She's the only one left standing. What to do now? How can she go on?
I love how Cecilia's character developed in the story. She started out as a very protected girl who doesn't know anything of the realities outside of their little corner of the forest. She knew death because her father died but the tragedy that has befallen her entire village was worth the grief and suffering of a hundred people. It's more than her young heart can bear. She lost everything she ever holds dear. Her home, her family, and her friends. How she found her purpose and what she needs to do to fulfill that did not come easy. She had a lot of doubts. What can a teenager do against an army and powerful enemies? But she was not alone. She found help just as what was prophesied.
The host of other characters in this story was very unexpected. It's a totally good combination and very well thought out. A lot of surprises there in terms of how one character was actually connected to another. Characters that will definitely take their own space in your heart, if you will let them. There are a lot of very memorable and adorable characters here that will surely melt your heart. Very unassuming, yet very instrumental in making the whole story work. I admit, the story is mostly about Cecilia but it doesn't just revolve around her. The other supporting characters were given enough to make them also stand on their own.
The romance angle was very unexpected. I certainly did not foresee that it was going to take that turn. But it was very very good. A guy having a change of heart because of a girl he met, does not get old. In real life, every girl wants to tame a bad boy, right? So, having included that element in the story which wasn't really obvious at first, was very nice. I did see that eventually Amalardh might fall for Cecilia because that's what happens when two people are thrown together in one place, right? When two people share the same experiences, especially difficult ones will definitely turn to each other. So, I expected that but I didn't expect that there was more. That's another good thing there.
All other elements of the story were done with great care. A lot of unexpected turns and surprises that will surely make your heart stop beating for a moment. I really enjoyed those moments. You will become a believer in Cecilia and root for her to be what she is destined to be. And as I am a great fan of heroines, this story just hit the right spot. Heroines and underdogs. The young, looked down and underestimated. All neatly packaged in this book. I want a sequel for this story. And that ending, OMG! My heart literally stopped for about 2 seconds there. I definitely could not accept if it had turned sideways. I would definitely file a protest. I would surely be sour for the rest of the month.
So, short of singing Cecilia by The Vamps loudly, I pretty much finished this book in one reading. I couldn't put it down. I'm sure, you wouldn't. You could not just leave Cecilia and her friends. You would want to be with them each step of the way. You wouldn't want to miss the adventure after learning of all the plans, because it's as if you were part of the planning team. You're part of the inner circle of rebels. You can't turn back now. It would be against everything you believe that's right and just in the world.
So, I give this book 5/5 trees of life.
Thank you Sandra Rostirolla for giving me an opportunity to read this story. It's a fantasy but it's really relevant in this modern world. We may not have prophesies or Flower Princesses or Wolf Knights to defend and save us, but we do have five-headed dragons. This dragon comes in any forms and it can be anything to anyone. This beast is our fears, our worries, our doubts, and our insecurities. Let us not let it devour us but rather fight it to the death with all our strength. We have all our own demons and it can't be defeated unless we do something. It would take a lot, just like Cecilia. She has to bury her whole village for 2 weeks. But no task is beyond a very strong and dedicated heart. Like Cecilia, we can be that Goddess of Light. Let our goodness, compassion, creativity, and kindness shine forth. We all have it in us.
How does one replace a lost heart?
The truth of man is that he does what he does based only on what he knows, and what he knows is warped by experiences, convoluted by fears, and deformed by perspective.
- Sandra Rostirolla, Cecilia -
January 12, 2021
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
In a magical dystopian world, a large city is taking out smaller villages. When it takes over Cecilia's village, and abducts her brothers, she goes after them.
In a magical dystopian world, a large city is taking out smaller villages. When it takes over Cecilia's village, and abducts her brothers, she goes after them.
December 26, 2022
— 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 —
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Cecilia: The Last Criolar Tier
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: Book 1 of 3 of the Cecilia Series
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Sandra L. Rostirolla
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: YA Fantasy
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: June 2021
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5/5
Cecilia, along with her mother, and two older brothers, live in Plockton, an idyllic village home to 77 Plocktonians set amongst a post-apocalyptic world. Suddenly, her village falls victim to soldiers from Vitus, a steely city with brainwashed citizens trapped by inhumane laws dictated by Senators. The soldiers slaughter the children, women, elderly, the frail, and enslave the young men. Cecilia's older brothers save her life, screaming at her to Run as they are captured defending her. Against all odds, Cecilia survives, thus begins her quest to return the favour, and save her brothers from the claws of Vitus. Along the way, she encounters a goddess, an assassin, and hidden societies.
The very first thing that struck me about this book is Rotirolla's descriptive prowess. In fact, I highlighted almost the entire first page and popped many heart emoji's in my notes.
It is only fair to share with you in this review this example of masterful writing. I could explain to hell and high-water how amazing the description is, but ultimately, you need to see yourself the writing powers you are up against in this book. I bring it up because descriptions are crucial when it comes to the world building. Imagination is a powerful tool, as every reader will know, but foundations are needed before buildings are erected and society moves in. Rostirolla helps the reader achieve this effortlessly.
Another thing I wish to mention, I am a true sucker for the enemies-to-lover trope, especially when one is an assassin sent to kill their future soul mate. The connection between Cecilia and Armaladh builds in a satisfying trajectory. Armaladh slowly baring his soul to Cecilia is possibly the most enjoyable aspect of this book. He is truly my favourite character.
My singular gripe - and in this case, gripe is a strong word - would be that I would have loved an index in this book, or something where it allowed me to see how to pronounce certain words in my head, including Armaladh's name. The uncertainty of how to pronounce multiple words relating to the story shook the world building as I struggled to recall the words for certain things.
Overall, quite possibly my favourite read of 2021 so far.
🧚🏻♀️
♡ my bookstagram • my twitter ♡
↑ follow my socials for more bookish content. ↑
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Cecilia: The Last Criolar Tier
𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: Book 1 of 3 of the Cecilia Series
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫(𝐬): Sandra L. Rostirolla
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: YA Fantasy
𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝: June 2021
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5/5
"The truth of man is that he does what he does based only on what he knows, and what he knows is warped by experiences, convoluted by fears, and deformed by perspective."
Cecilia, along with her mother, and two older brothers, live in Plockton, an idyllic village home to 77 Plocktonians set amongst a post-apocalyptic world. Suddenly, her village falls victim to soldiers from Vitus, a steely city with brainwashed citizens trapped by inhumane laws dictated by Senators. The soldiers slaughter the children, women, elderly, the frail, and enslave the young men. Cecilia's older brothers save her life, screaming at her to Run as they are captured defending her. Against all odds, Cecilia survives, thus begins her quest to return the favour, and save her brothers from the claws of Vitus. Along the way, she encounters a goddess, an assassin, and hidden societies.
The very first thing that struck me about this book is Rotirolla's descriptive prowess. In fact, I highlighted almost the entire first page and popped many heart emoji's in my notes.
"The sun, fog, and canopy were at it again, quarrelling over who to blame for the forest's chilly morning air. The sun accused the canopy of not letting him in to do his job, to which the canopy bristled that his leaves had plentiful gaps for the sun's rays, arguing the lazy fog was at fault fo lingering far too long. Never one to move faster than a sleepy sloth, the fog let out an airy yawn and replied that if the golden ball of fire tried a little harder and warmed the air a little quicker, his mist could float away, and if the Green Emperor weren't so prideful of his canopy, he wouldn't be trapped in the first place."
It is only fair to share with you in this review this example of masterful writing. I could explain to hell and high-water how amazing the description is, but ultimately, you need to see yourself the writing powers you are up against in this book. I bring it up because descriptions are crucial when it comes to the world building. Imagination is a powerful tool, as every reader will know, but foundations are needed before buildings are erected and society moves in. Rostirolla helps the reader achieve this effortlessly.
Another thing I wish to mention, I am a true sucker for the enemies-to-lover trope, especially when one is an assassin sent to kill their future soul mate. The connection between Cecilia and Armaladh builds in a satisfying trajectory. Armaladh slowly baring his soul to Cecilia is possibly the most enjoyable aspect of this book. He is truly my favourite character.
My singular gripe - and in this case, gripe is a strong word - would be that I would have loved an index in this book, or something where it allowed me to see how to pronounce certain words in my head, including Armaladh's name. The uncertainty of how to pronounce multiple words relating to the story shook the world building as I struggled to recall the words for certain things.
Overall, quite possibly my favourite read of 2021 so far.
🧚🏻♀️
♡ my bookstagram • my twitter ♡
↑ follow my socials for more bookish content. ↑
May 26, 2018
I received a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
There were definitely highs and lows throughout this book. I appreciated that the fantasy aspect of it wasn't too complicated, because I have a hard time getting into the story if I'm focusing on how to pronounce a character's name, or what country everyone is from, or what their lineage is. There really isn't a lot of that here, which is a plus. Unfortunately, there *is* an overabundance of romantic schmaltz and it really doesn't fit in with the story very well. For the most part, I thought it was a decent read, but I could have done with more action and less melodrama.
There were definitely highs and lows throughout this book. I appreciated that the fantasy aspect of it wasn't too complicated, because I have a hard time getting into the story if I'm focusing on how to pronounce a character's name, or what country everyone is from, or what their lineage is. There really isn't a lot of that here, which is a plus. Unfortunately, there *is* an overabundance of romantic schmaltz and it really doesn't fit in with the story very well. For the most part, I thought it was a decent read, but I could have done with more action and less melodrama.
July 8, 2021
The prose of this novel is a dredge to get through, characters speak in odd stilted ways, and most disappointingly the novel is very light on characterization for the protagonist or anyone around her. After fifty pages the only thing I could tell you about the main character is that she likes children's stories. This lack of characterization harms the novel as the inciting incident is the brutal massacre of her village but it is difficult to care as the reader knows nothing about the characters killed or her relationships with them. Any interest the reader might have the mysterious world of the novel is quickly drowned out by mechanical issues.
July 25, 2021
2/5
I really wanted to like this book, but it just did not meet my expectations. I have to say that the worldbuilding was great and you got a great introduction to the cities, but the book lacked character development. All I know about the character is that she is mature yet childish, and that she is a girl who is addicted to her teddy bear. I did not feel like I really connected with Cecilia. I had very high expectations for this book and it just did not live up to what I wanted.
I really wanted to like this book, but it just did not meet my expectations. I have to say that the worldbuilding was great and you got a great introduction to the cities, but the book lacked character development. All I know about the character is that she is mature yet childish, and that she is a girl who is addicted to her teddy bear. I did not feel like I really connected with Cecilia. I had very high expectations for this book and it just did not live up to what I wanted.
Want to read
October 21, 2017excited to read this!
March 9, 2020
I found this to be a solid 3 star fairy tale. We have a hero, a heroine and a quest/journey. At the very beginning as Cecilia's village is destroyed by soldiers, I really liked her and her conviction in honoring traditions. As the story wears on, I tended to feel that she was just another giddy teenage girl. The story in entertaining to a degree but it doesn't offer up that magic I expect to feel from a really good tale. It's a fairly easy read with just enough of what it needs to keep the reader engaged. I don't know if there is a sequel but if so I will be passing on it. Once is enough.
November 11, 2021
Evenings, I read this book with my eleven year old son and even as we drove in the mornings to school and also to afternoon gymnastics drop-off, we talked about it. A great read. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 9, 2021
I originally gave this book 3.5 stars but, since half stars aren't possible here, I rounded down.
This is a light, young adult fantasy read where prophecy and fairy tale collide.
This book is not a retelling or reimagining.. The author has created her own fairy tale within the pages of what is, in essence, a simple fantasy. Don't get me wrong, there is more to it than that but, basically? It's the kind of story you can easily follow along with without the typical onslaught of information you usually see in the first of a series.
Warning: There may be spoilers.
First line: The sun, fog, and canopy were at it again, quarreling over who to blame for the forest’s chilly morning air.
After her home is destroyed, and her brothers taken by enemy soldiers, Cecilia decides there's no point in remaining in the remains of her decimated village. Following the soldiers trail through the forest and ruined land, she realizes with increasing concern that the world is a much bigger, harsher place than she ever imagined.
Cecilia is young and lacking in maturity that is made up for with a quick mind and soft heart. I found her rather fanciful, prone to daydreaming, and refreshingly authentic. She does whine about quite a bit, which derailed some of my interest in her character but, in all fairness, she has no idea what the world outside of her village is actually like.
The romance is mild. It never really takes over the storyline.. but it's also not a sweeping, passionate love affair either. Personally? I felt that the romance was just enough to not get annoying.
Even with all the things that make this a good story.. I just couldn't get absorbed in it. It was a decent read but I always want the end of a book to excite me as much as the beginning, to come away from it with a strong feeling of certainty on whether I loved or hated it and, this time? I didn't.
So let's go with.. I liked it. It was a good read and it wrapped everything up pretty well. The writing keeps pace, the history of the world had me more curious than anything, and the characters were likable enough.
This is a light, young adult fantasy read where prophecy and fairy tale collide.
This book is not a retelling or reimagining.. The author has created her own fairy tale within the pages of what is, in essence, a simple fantasy. Don't get me wrong, there is more to it than that but, basically? It's the kind of story you can easily follow along with without the typical onslaught of information you usually see in the first of a series.
Warning: There may be spoilers.
First line: The sun, fog, and canopy were at it again, quarreling over who to blame for the forest’s chilly morning air.
After her home is destroyed, and her brothers taken by enemy soldiers, Cecilia decides there's no point in remaining in the remains of her decimated village. Following the soldiers trail through the forest and ruined land, she realizes with increasing concern that the world is a much bigger, harsher place than she ever imagined.
Cecilia is young and lacking in maturity that is made up for with a quick mind and soft heart. I found her rather fanciful, prone to daydreaming, and refreshingly authentic. She does whine about quite a bit, which derailed some of my interest in her character but, in all fairness, she has no idea what the world outside of her village is actually like.
The romance is mild. It never really takes over the storyline.. but it's also not a sweeping, passionate love affair either. Personally? I felt that the romance was just enough to not get annoying.
Even with all the things that make this a good story.. I just couldn't get absorbed in it. It was a decent read but I always want the end of a book to excite me as much as the beginning, to come away from it with a strong feeling of certainty on whether I loved or hated it and, this time? I didn't.
So let's go with.. I liked it. It was a good read and it wrapped everything up pretty well. The writing keeps pace, the history of the world had me more curious than anything, and the characters were likable enough.
June 29, 2024
Cecilia is a thrilling tale of one girl's fierceless determination to stand against evil no matter the cost.
In a post apocolyptic world, Cecilia lives in a village in the Forest, where everyone works together to ensure their community thrives. There's plenty of drama, and Cecilia has reached a point in her life where childhood friendships either evolve or erode, bringing uncertainty into a future she was sure she had all figured out.
But when a group of riders attacks her village and steals all the young men, she realizes just how uncertain her future really is. Things become even more complicated when an assassin captures her, beginning a chain of events that will change the world forever.
I enjoyed this book. The world building is really great. Rostirolla really knows how to capture the look and feel of a post apocolyptic world, weaving in details that immersed me in every scene. Cecilia knows nothing of the world outside her village, and I love how Rostirolla lets us learn things at the same time Cecilia does.
I also enjoyed her relationship with Amalardh, the assassin, I thought it developed at a good pace with the plot. There's a fairytale element in this that reminded me a little of Once and Future Witches, where tales passed down from generation to generation have a hidden meaning. I also appreciated that Cecilia wasn't a Mary Sue, which is so common in YA Warrior Princess stories. In fact, despite her training to use a sword, she was thoroughly terrible at it when it came time to use it.
There were a few things that felt a little cliche or tropey for my liking, but I know this is common for YA books. For people who read a lot of YA, idt they'd have the same issues as me. The first chapter seemed a little too happy in tone compared to the rest of it and made her seem younger than 18, but afterwards it picked up and didn't slow down.
I will be continuing this series and have already ordered book 2 from bookshop.org. Highly recommend for fantasy/dystopian lovers!
In a post apocolyptic world, Cecilia lives in a village in the Forest, where everyone works together to ensure their community thrives. There's plenty of drama, and Cecilia has reached a point in her life where childhood friendships either evolve or erode, bringing uncertainty into a future she was sure she had all figured out.
But when a group of riders attacks her village and steals all the young men, she realizes just how uncertain her future really is. Things become even more complicated when an assassin captures her, beginning a chain of events that will change the world forever.
I enjoyed this book. The world building is really great. Rostirolla really knows how to capture the look and feel of a post apocolyptic world, weaving in details that immersed me in every scene. Cecilia knows nothing of the world outside her village, and I love how Rostirolla lets us learn things at the same time Cecilia does.
I also enjoyed her relationship with Amalardh, the assassin, I thought it developed at a good pace with the plot. There's a fairytale element in this that reminded me a little of Once and Future Witches, where tales passed down from generation to generation have a hidden meaning. I also appreciated that Cecilia wasn't a Mary Sue, which is so common in YA Warrior Princess stories. In fact, despite her training to use a sword, she was thoroughly terrible at it when it came time to use it.
There were a few things that felt a little cliche or tropey for my liking, but I know this is common for YA books. For people who read a lot of YA, idt they'd have the same issues as me. The first chapter seemed a little too happy in tone compared to the rest of it and made her seem younger than 18, but afterwards it picked up and didn't slow down.
I will be continuing this series and have already ordered book 2 from bookshop.org. Highly recommend for fantasy/dystopian lovers!
March 20, 2022
3.5/5 Stars
The concept was really fascinating and the main characters intriguing, and well rounded, however the rest that’s where the book falls short.
The writing was pretty average, lots of good quotes however it felt very info-dumpy and some parts felt very forced. It wasn’t bad it just wasn’t extraordinary. The pacing too felt off, it was very fast and the timeframe of the events seemed very rapid and unrealistic, I didn’t have time to get the connection or desire to succeed. There also were many small side characters introduced and just there, they came back and had a purpose however they didn’t feel developed at all other than progress the plot. The worldbuilding while very interesting was confusing, I felt very lost in Vetis, size wise. The book makes it sound like a massive story however there are then later contridictions and numbers of sizing that don’t make sense for the appeared sizing of the place itself.
Now don’t get me wrong this book was enjoyable, the main characters where well written and I felt drawn to them, not fully connected however I hope to get to know them more in the sequels. The concept again was very fascinating, I liked how the world seemed to work and hopefully with further development it’ll be even more enjoyable.
I believe this book would be great if you want something fast paced, possibly slightly dystopian, moral grey and badass leads.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The concept was really fascinating and the main characters intriguing, and well rounded, however the rest that’s where the book falls short.
The writing was pretty average, lots of good quotes however it felt very info-dumpy and some parts felt very forced. It wasn’t bad it just wasn’t extraordinary. The pacing too felt off, it was very fast and the timeframe of the events seemed very rapid and unrealistic, I didn’t have time to get the connection or desire to succeed. There also were many small side characters introduced and just there, they came back and had a purpose however they didn’t feel developed at all other than progress the plot. The worldbuilding while very interesting was confusing, I felt very lost in Vetis, size wise. The book makes it sound like a massive story however there are then later contridictions and numbers of sizing that don’t make sense for the appeared sizing of the place itself.
Now don’t get me wrong this book was enjoyable, the main characters where well written and I felt drawn to them, not fully connected however I hope to get to know them more in the sequels. The concept again was very fascinating, I liked how the world seemed to work and hopefully with further development it’ll be even more enjoyable.
I believe this book would be great if you want something fast paced, possibly slightly dystopian, moral grey and badass leads.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2018
18-year-old Cecilia, along with her mother, and two brothers, live together in a utopian society formed after the Great War. Cecilia has never known the cruelties of humankind; but following a violent and senseless raid on her village, she is the only person miraculously spared from carnage or kidnapping. Against all odds, she determines to find and free her brothers who were taken as prisoners. Emboldened by a fierce determination the spirited young woman sets off to the city of Vitus where her brothers are held captive.
Soon after leaving the only home she's ever known she begins to doubt the sanity of her quest. But before she has a chance to reconsider she is taken prisoner by Amalardh, an assassin sent to kill the person bearing the symbol which she wears around her neck.
Author Sandra L. Rostirolla's Cecilia is a true literary gem. Insightfully penned, with characters that are well-developed, and a plot that sizzles, this book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
Soon after leaving the only home she's ever known she begins to doubt the sanity of her quest. But before she has a chance to reconsider she is taken prisoner by Amalardh, an assassin sent to kill the person bearing the symbol which she wears around her neck.
Author Sandra L. Rostirolla's Cecilia is a true literary gem. Insightfully penned, with characters that are well-developed, and a plot that sizzles, this book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
March 1, 2023
Oh my goodness you must get this book and read it! 18 year old Cecilia has a lot of tragedy ahead, but also great growth and victory.
I’m afraid to say more; I don’t want to spoil anything. There are so many surprises and unexpected developments all along the way. I love how Sandra writes. There is no lagging or drawing things out. She develops her characters so well. Some you love, some you really DON’T.
The story is post-apocalyptic, the past slowly revealed as we go along. Hopefully we’ll learn more in the next books. I can’t wait!
For those who want to know, I wouldn’t recommend it for too young an audience. There is one intimate scene that some parents wouldn’t want their middle school/junior higher to be reading.
I’m afraid to say more; I don’t want to spoil anything. There are so many surprises and unexpected developments all along the way. I love how Sandra writes. There is no lagging or drawing things out. She develops her characters so well. Some you love, some you really DON’T.
The story is post-apocalyptic, the past slowly revealed as we go along. Hopefully we’ll learn more in the next books. I can’t wait!
For those who want to know, I wouldn’t recommend it for too young an audience. There is one intimate scene that some parents wouldn’t want their middle school/junior higher to be reading.
January 9, 2018
This novel is unlike any other. It has elements of a YA post-apocalyptic Hunger Games or Divergent, yet it's also shrouded in fantasy and mythology like a Tolkien novel or even Game of Thrones, and still there's a sprinkling of adventure/romance á la Princess Bride in there. I have to applaud the author's creativity and originality. I also must add that the whole time I was reading, I couldn't help but think: this has got to be a movie! Seriously, Hollywood if you're reading this, snatch up these rights. This is an epic series in the making.
October 28, 2018
I will say the world in this book is very interesting. I enjoyed the description and discovering aspects of this world along with our main character.
The storytelling was done very well in my opinion. It captured and kept my attention and the flow of the story went well.
Where this book lacked for me is our main character. There was a bit of a Mary Sue aspect of her - she is an instant inspiration to people, she quickly learned how to wield a sword, and all the men around her age who come across her (and isn't related) has a crush on her.
The storytelling was done very well in my opinion. It captured and kept my attention and the flow of the story went well.
Where this book lacked for me is our main character. There was a bit of a Mary Sue aspect of her - she is an instant inspiration to people, she quickly learned how to wield a sword, and all the men around her age who come across her (and isn't related) has a crush on her.
December 30, 2017
Cecilia is an epic adventure about a young heroine on a journey to save loved ones. Along the way she finds her true self and a destiny with greater meaning then she could ever imagine. Sandra L. Rostirolla paints a picture with every word and the layers go deep, leaving the obvious unexplained but for the picture painted thus leading the reader to exciting discoveries along Cecilia’s journey. Loved this book!
February 11, 2018
This was a very good read, with lots of well placed foreshadowing and surprising twists. Most importantly, the romance was both engaging and believable. The protagonist Cecilia is the most likable character, but the other characters are also nuanced and real. My only issue is that the story does end a bit abruptly, particularly after the climax. The abruptness of the ending alone makes me think that a sequel is likely on the way, and I hope so, as I'd like to read more about Cecilia.
November 26, 2018
I enjoyed reading Cecilia and the way it intertwined the tales we carry from our childhood and weave them into a new reality. The writing was so smooth in making this work, it was like the story became one you somehow remember yourself and become vested in the journey of how it will work out. While I felt the ending was a bit rushed and was quick to wrap many loose strings, it was definitely a good story and I would recommend and look for more from Sandra L Rostirolla.
April 20, 2022
Epically Beautiful
This was such a breathtaking tale. Granted it had all the elements of any other tale of oppressed people welcoming and heralding some long awaited savior to deliver them from bondage. I guess the thing that makes this story different was how quickly the battle happened (seriously this great uprising happened in about a single afternoon) and how carefully woven the tale of the prophecy was.
Truly magnificent.
This was such a breathtaking tale. Granted it had all the elements of any other tale of oppressed people welcoming and heralding some long awaited savior to deliver them from bondage. I guess the thing that makes this story different was how quickly the battle happened (seriously this great uprising happened in about a single afternoon) and how carefully woven the tale of the prophecy was.
Truly magnificent.
January 27, 2018
Excellent read although I have to admit it left me wanting more. I was hooked after the first chapter and for me the beginning was the strongest part of the book. Once I was a few chapters in I wished that the book was thicker as I was really enjoying Cecilia's journey. The only issue I had with the ending was it came too soon. This book would definitely make a fantastic movie!
January 27, 2018
I thought the book was great IThoroughly enjoyed it.I liked that there was a bit of history as well as fantasy and romance.I am looking forward to reading more of your work.
February 6, 2018
I really enjoyed this book!
November 14, 2020
This book is not well-written.
January 10, 2023
3.5 stars
August 28, 2018
This book was both too slow and too fast in different ways. I really pushed myself to get into it. If the book had been a library book and not a book from Netgally, I might have abandoned it.
Read the full review on my blog - The Dyslexic Reader
Read the full review on my blog - The Dyslexic Reader
April 2, 2021
I'm in TEARS
When the Flower Princess witnesses the murder of her sunflowers and the hands of the Crows, she leaves her decimated home behind in search of her remaining kin. During her journey, she comes across the Wolf and they become inseparable. Together, the Ceannaire Fís rounds up the ants and are able to defeat the five headed dragon.
I'm notorious for acting a fool while reading books but I'm pretty sure I looked unhinged reading this one. With constant screaming and flailing as the story went on, I tried my best to hold in physical reactions to the unfolding events but I really couldn't help it.
I honestly felt like at the beginning, Cecilia was quite possibly the most petulant person that could possibly fulfill the prophecy but her character arc proved me wrong. She was still rash with some of her decisions, but she really grew up throughout the book.
Amalardh is everything.
All in all this story, this fairytale was more than I could have ever hoped to gain from this book and I thoroughly loved it
.
4🌟
When the Flower Princess witnesses the murder of her sunflowers and the hands of the Crows, she leaves her decimated home behind in search of her remaining kin. During her journey, she comes across the Wolf and they become inseparable. Together, the Ceannaire Fís rounds up the ants and are able to defeat the five headed dragon.
I'm notorious for acting a fool while reading books but I'm pretty sure I looked unhinged reading this one. With constant screaming and flailing as the story went on, I tried my best to hold in physical reactions to the unfolding events but I really couldn't help it.
I honestly felt like at the beginning, Cecilia was quite possibly the most petulant person that could possibly fulfill the prophecy but her character arc proved me wrong. She was still rash with some of her decisions, but she really grew up throughout the book.
Amalardh is everything.
All in all this story, this fairytale was more than I could have ever hoped to gain from this book and I thoroughly loved it
.
4🌟
November 30, 2019
This was a fun story. From the very beginning, the action picks up as Cecilia's village is attacked, and her brothers are taken. It then takes you on a journey that pulls you deep into this world the author has built.
The characters are likeable, the writing is flawless and the plot is original and well-written.
This book reminded me as a mix of Shannara and The Princess Bride.
There's even a sweet romance which is always nice in fantasy!
I also love how description this world is where you will feel like you are walking with Cecilia on her journey. The twists and discoveries will keep you guessing until the end.
Fantastic job to author Sandra Rostirolla
The characters are likeable, the writing is flawless and the plot is original and well-written.
This book reminded me as a mix of Shannara and The Princess Bride.
There's even a sweet romance which is always nice in fantasy!
I also love how description this world is where you will feel like you are walking with Cecilia on her journey. The twists and discoveries will keep you guessing until the end.
Fantastic job to author Sandra Rostirolla
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