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The Quickening #1
Le Don
Encore adolescent, Wyl Thirsk doit assumer le rôle pour lequel on le destinait depuis sa naissance : commandant en chef des armées de Morgravia! Une responsabilité qui le conduit à la cour du prince Celimus, un despote sadique. Là, un geste de bonté envers une sorcière condamnée au bûcher vaudra à Wyl un don miraculeux, ainsi que la colère de son seigneur et maître. Contraint de lui obéir, Wyl est envoyé au Nord où la guerre menace, pour une mission suicidaire à la cour ennemie... avec pour seule arme un mystérieux pouvoir dont il ne soupçonne pas même l'existence. Or, s'il n'embrasse pas le Dernier Souffle, il signera sa perte... et celle du pays qu'il a juré de défendre.
665 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 26, 2003
170 people are currently reading
4256 people want to read
About the author
Fiona McIntosh
70 books1,985 followersFiona writes best selling historical adventure-romance alongside the heroic-romantic, often brutal, fantasy she built her career upon. She lives in Australia but frequently roams the world meticulously researching the locations and gathering material for her historical novels that have international settings. Her books are published worldwide and in various languages.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Her most recent historical fiction has gathered such a following that she is now hosting a tour in 2014 to Paris and Provence so eager readers can walk in the footsteps of her characters.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews
September 8, 2015
I don't know why so many bad reviews, I found this trilogy awesome, I couldn't stop reading it, I couldn't put it down till done such awesome twists , I loved it!!!
April 21, 2012
This book is so bad that I started rewriting it before I even finished it. Which I have not yet. And have no intention of doing unless I run of material in the rewrite.
Have some reasons why I had to leave a public space while reading it because I thought I was going to scream/throw up. This books hits a level of misogyny that I wasn't aware was possible given the writer is a woman. There is a moment of rape apologism (rape apology?) that made me want to puke. There is a systematic and state-condoned destruction of the disabled. The entire book is "rah rah white men boys club forever!" to the point where I started marking down points at which it would be more convenient/less annoying if the character just had sex and got it over with. There are really bizarre race politics that I don't know what to do with.
And I'm only up to chapter fourteen. I will probably not go on. Aside from the above offenses, the writing sucks, the main character is boring as hell, the plot is contrived, and too much time is spent describing how attractive the men are.
Have some reasons why I had to leave a public space while reading it because I thought I was going to scream/throw up. This books hits a level of misogyny that I wasn't aware was possible given the writer is a woman. There is a moment of rape apologism (rape apology?) that made me want to puke. There is a systematic and state-condoned destruction of the disabled. The entire book is "rah rah white men boys club forever!" to the point where I started marking down points at which it would be more convenient/less annoying if the character just had sex and got it over with. There are really bizarre race politics that I don't know what to do with.
And I'm only up to chapter fourteen. I will probably not go on. Aside from the above offenses, the writing sucks, the main character is boring as hell, the plot is contrived, and too much time is spent describing how attractive the men are.
March 6, 2017
4.5 stars. I realize that this book had some problems, but I honestly just had a ton of fun while reading it and it made me excited to pick it back up, which I haven't felt in quite some time. I really enjoy the story and can't wait for my physical copy to arrive at my house.
October 15, 2007
It started off with potential, but pretty much destroyed it later on. The Gift was an interesting one, but rather ruined it for me in having access to memories and body language...it would create interesting conflict to have seen Wyl struggle through that.
Good guys are good, bad guys are bad. Anyone in between pretty much get killed off. Good guy falls in love with Love Interest, bad guy wants Love Interest. Cue pointless journey and dogs appearing out of nowhere to help whenever a fight doesn't go the good guy's way.
Now the above is all well and good, but for the fact that both sides figure complex plans to simple problems and never listen to warnings, ever. It was honestly too frustrating to finish slogging through.
Good guys are good, bad guys are bad. Anyone in between pretty much get killed off. Good guy falls in love with Love Interest, bad guy wants Love Interest. Cue pointless journey and dogs appearing out of nowhere to help whenever a fight doesn't go the good guy's way.
Now the above is all well and good, but for the fact that both sides figure complex plans to simple problems and never listen to warnings, ever. It was honestly too frustrating to finish slogging through.
August 3, 2016
I am so disappointed in this book and its sequel (and I'm assuming will be equally disappointed w/ the third one, but hey, I spent the money on it, I'm going to read it.)
First off, a glowing recommendation by Robin Hobb, author of TWO of my favorite fantasy trilogies (Farseer, Tawny Man). What a damn lie. Hobb is an amazing writer and I can't imagine she would honestly rave about this trite piece of barely-adequate crap. I should know better than ever go by rave author blurbs (except Harlan Ellison. I think Ellison would be outraged by the idea of puffing a book he didn't actually like.)
Secondly, the transparently telegraphed set ups - i.e., "He left this meaningful bracelet tied to a branch in the middle of absolutely nowhere in hopes that XYZ character, who would know what it meant, would come along that EXACT PATH to the far back of beyond and see it and understand that he had been there and would follow him." AND LO AND BEHOLD THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENS. I know! I am just as stunned as you are.
And there's a fucking magical dog. Which understands human speech and can communicate on a rudimentary level (like barking once as confirmation.) And apparently can on occasion transport itself from point to point. And may be able to transport humans in a similar fashion, although the details are still murky on that. (The dog's abilities are becoming more numerous as the story goes on.) It's fantasy Lassie, man.
And there there's a mass of piddly little kvetches, like using the word "boon" twice in one paragraph, and the second time it's not even really the right word. WHERE WERE THE COPY EDITORS???
Gah. The more I think about it the more I think two stars is overly generous.
First off, a glowing recommendation by Robin Hobb, author of TWO of my favorite fantasy trilogies (Farseer, Tawny Man). What a damn lie. Hobb is an amazing writer and I can't imagine she would honestly rave about this trite piece of barely-adequate crap. I should know better than ever go by rave author blurbs (except Harlan Ellison. I think Ellison would be outraged by the idea of puffing a book he didn't actually like.)
Secondly, the transparently telegraphed set ups - i.e., "He left this meaningful bracelet tied to a branch in the middle of absolutely nowhere in hopes that XYZ character, who would know what it meant, would come along that EXACT PATH to the far back of beyond and see it and understand that he had been there and would follow him." AND LO AND BEHOLD THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENS. I know! I am just as stunned as you are.
And there's a fucking magical dog. Which understands human speech and can communicate on a rudimentary level (like barking once as confirmation.) And apparently can on occasion transport itself from point to point. And may be able to transport humans in a similar fashion, although the details are still murky on that. (The dog's abilities are becoming more numerous as the story goes on.) It's fantasy Lassie, man.
And there there's a mass of piddly little kvetches, like using the word "boon" twice in one paragraph, and the second time it's not even really the right word. WHERE WERE THE COPY EDITORS???
Gah. The more I think about it the more I think two stars is overly generous.
March 23, 2025
⭐️4.5 Stars⭐️
I was so excited to receive copy of Myrren's Gift, I’m a big fan of Fiona McIntosh and I’ve read many of her historical and crime fiction books but have never read any of her fantasy books until now and I found it captivating.
This is a re-release of the Quickening series with a beautiful new cover and it’s out now. There are four books in the series.
Myreen’s Gift is an entertaining dark fantasy combining royalty, magic, witchcraft, adventure, violence, mystery and action, I found it engaging and couldn’t put it down. I did feel some Game of Thrones vibes.
When young Wyl Thirsk, new commander of the Morgravian army is forced to watch the torture of a young girl accused of witchcraft he shows compassion to Myrren and unwittingly earns a gift from the dying girl that will change his life in a unique way.
Crown Prince Celimus of Morgravia is cruel and devious and hates Wyl, he sees Wyl as an obstacle to his cruel plans once his father dies and he’s King.
The main characters are well crafted. I found Fynch a young boy Wyl befriends one of my favourite characters along with the male lead.
The ending shocked me as I was really enjoying a particular character who obviously won’t be in the next book, but I did have a hunch. I would love to explore this series further as I loved it.
Publication Date 04 March 2025
Publisher Imprint Penguin
Thank you so much Penguin Books Australia for a copy of the book.
I was so excited to receive copy of Myrren's Gift, I’m a big fan of Fiona McIntosh and I’ve read many of her historical and crime fiction books but have never read any of her fantasy books until now and I found it captivating.
This is a re-release of the Quickening series with a beautiful new cover and it’s out now. There are four books in the series.
Myreen’s Gift is an entertaining dark fantasy combining royalty, magic, witchcraft, adventure, violence, mystery and action, I found it engaging and couldn’t put it down. I did feel some Game of Thrones vibes.
When young Wyl Thirsk, new commander of the Morgravian army is forced to watch the torture of a young girl accused of witchcraft he shows compassion to Myrren and unwittingly earns a gift from the dying girl that will change his life in a unique way.
Crown Prince Celimus of Morgravia is cruel and devious and hates Wyl, he sees Wyl as an obstacle to his cruel plans once his father dies and he’s King.
The main characters are well crafted. I found Fynch a young boy Wyl befriends one of my favourite characters along with the male lead.
The ending shocked me as I was really enjoying a particular character who obviously won’t be in the next book, but I did have a hunch. I would love to explore this series further as I loved it.
Publication Date 04 March 2025
Publisher Imprint Penguin
Thank you so much Penguin Books Australia for a copy of the book.
June 9, 2019
Things I liked:
- somewhat exciting plot
- somewhat colourful characters
Things I didn't like:
- McIntosh's portrayal of female characters as in need of male guidance and protection. Even Valentyna, a strong and capable woman who really doesn't need anyone's help, constantly has all these men looking out for her and protecting her, but it's not really clear why they are more capable at looking after Valentyna's safety than she would be. And Ylena, what is the deal with her? Despite being of a marriable age, she seems to be about eight years old considering how much her older brother coddles her.
- Also, why are all these women totally fine with the idea that they might be raped? It's like it's a totally normal thing and not at all traumatising, scary or sickening.
- Then we have the issue of the stereotypical portrayal of women as emotional creatures who cry all the time and who have to keep their emotions in check so that they can act like rational beings (which is "obviously" what they should be doing because someone who makes decisions based on feelings is an idiot).
- and men can only be rational and cold people and if they show emotion (that isn't rage or lust) it is rarely a lasting thing. Like when Lothren spends a day crying because his wife has died in childbirth and then forgets everything about her and instead becomes his old grumpy self. The only male who isn't a macho type of dude is our dear Fynch, an awkward child.
- Further, what kind of message is McIntosh trying to convey when Wyl starts off being an ugly, short man who couldn't ever hope of attracting someone as attractive as a Princess and then all of a sudden he takes over the body of a tall and handsome guy and gets the girl?
- what is up with the expository dialogue and thinking all the time? It is SO boring and uncreative.
- it is also very obvious that the author hates Celimus. I mean, I totally get where he's coming from. His mother was married off to some king who was older than she and who forced himself on her. She obviously developed a hatred for the guy and inevitably passed this on to her son who never enjoyed any attention from his father. Instead, the king basically adopts his best friend the general's son. Celimus is jealous of this other boy who somehow has managed to win the affections of his father and a rivalry develops. Yet Celimus is demonised and I felt like the author didn't even try to show any nuances in Celimus's behaviour; everything was just evil and cruel. I'm not defending Celimus because to be fair he is a bit awful, but he's such a Disney villain. He's got no depth and no motivation - he's just a bad person. Wyl, however, is THE golden boy. He is great at fighting, leading his troops and also a great person, despite being ugly and having no parents. Because he is such a good leader and warrior he earned the respect of his army immediately (?) at like age 10... He is also sexually innocent (there are very strong connections between morality and sexuality in this book, just compare to the morally dubious Romen and his sexual prowess).
- etc.
=> Don't read this.
also, why do the guys get erections all the time?
- somewhat exciting plot
- somewhat colourful characters
Things I didn't like:
- McIntosh's portrayal of female characters as in need of male guidance and protection. Even Valentyna, a strong and capable woman who really doesn't need anyone's help, constantly has all these men looking out for her and protecting her, but it's not really clear why they are more capable at looking after Valentyna's safety than she would be. And Ylena, what is the deal with her? Despite being of a marriable age, she seems to be about eight years old considering how much her older brother coddles her.
- Also, why are all these women totally fine with the idea that they might be raped? It's like it's a totally normal thing and not at all traumatising, scary or sickening.
- Then we have the issue of the stereotypical portrayal of women as emotional creatures who cry all the time and who have to keep their emotions in check so that they can act like rational beings (which is "obviously" what they should be doing because someone who makes decisions based on feelings is an idiot).
- and men can only be rational and cold people and if they show emotion (that isn't rage or lust) it is rarely a lasting thing. Like when Lothren spends a day crying because his wife has died in childbirth and then forgets everything about her and instead becomes his old grumpy self. The only male who isn't a macho type of dude is our dear Fynch, an awkward child.
- Further, what kind of message is McIntosh trying to convey when Wyl starts off being an ugly, short man who couldn't ever hope of attracting someone as attractive as a Princess and then all of a sudden he takes over the body of a tall and handsome guy and gets the girl?
- what is up with the expository dialogue and thinking all the time? It is SO boring and uncreative.
- it is also very obvious that the author hates Celimus. I mean, I totally get where he's coming from. His mother was married off to some king who was older than she and who forced himself on her. She obviously developed a hatred for the guy and inevitably passed this on to her son who never enjoyed any attention from his father. Instead, the king basically adopts his best friend the general's son. Celimus is jealous of this other boy who somehow has managed to win the affections of his father and a rivalry develops. Yet Celimus is demonised and I felt like the author didn't even try to show any nuances in Celimus's behaviour; everything was just evil and cruel. I'm not defending Celimus because to be fair he is a bit awful, but he's such a Disney villain. He's got no depth and no motivation - he's just a bad person. Wyl, however, is THE golden boy. He is great at fighting, leading his troops and also a great person, despite being ugly and having no parents. Because he is such a good leader and warrior he earned the respect of his army immediately (?) at like age 10... He is also sexually innocent (there are very strong connections between morality and sexuality in this book, just compare to the morally dubious Romen and his sexual prowess).
- etc.
=> Don't read this.
also, why do the guys get erections all the time?
dnf
October 7, 2024DNF on p.118
I tried this on a recommendation, despite reading the 1-star reviews... the 1-star reviews were right.
It's a weird contrast between middle-grade books characterization, with all the characters being either very good or very bad, and the author lets you know straight away, and keeps telling you if you somehow forgot how moral/immoral they are... and brutal adult themes (rape and torture everywhere). I wanted to know where it's going, but I'm too squeamish to continue.
I tried this on a recommendation, despite reading the 1-star reviews... the 1-star reviews were right.
It's a weird contrast between middle-grade books characterization, with all the characters being either very good or very bad, and the author lets you know straight away, and keeps telling you if you somehow forgot how moral/immoral they are... and brutal adult themes (rape and torture everywhere). I wanted to know where it's going, but I'm too squeamish to continue.
July 14, 2014
Myrren's Gift is a brilliant example of how treating the text as unreliable improves it beyond measure.
This could be the story of Celimus, a boy born into a tragic fate he cannot hope to uphold. His mother has been forced into an arranged marriage with a much older king to secure trading rights, not for love. Refusing to bend her will, she raises her son to be brilliant, ruthless and stand up to his father...not understanding that a boy born in a house of no love cannot lead his people. Too late, his father has his mother assassinated. But the boy is already old enough to hear whispers, and soon discovers he will never be able to trust his father.
The two mens' paths diverge. Seeking to assert his flagging manhood, the King of Morgravia stokes the fire of war anew with the neighboring nation. Obediently, General Thirsk and his son Wyl ride off to battle, only for the General to throw his life away! Reaching out for the son he feels he never had, the King does not allow Wyl Thirsk to be sent off to a military academy. Instead, the King keeps Wyl close by at court, and the bond between king and prince is forever sundered.
Prince Celimus,for his part, clings to religion to give himself some direction. Witches, with their inhuman abilities to resist pain and their terrible curses, could have been treated as very real threats to the security of Morgravia. When Celimus' agents find one, the witch curses Wyl with heterochromia and...stuff. To protect himself, and to give Wyl Thirsk the training he needs if he is to lead the Morgravian army, Celimus wisely sends his new general off to the mysterious northern border...
...ah, but Fiona McIntosh is no Vladimir Nabokov. Heck, she isn't even Danielle Steele. The whole story is played tragically straight. If you're the author's favorite, you are good, noble and pure; if you're one of the author's targets, you are irredeemable.
To motivate myself, I took a drink of scotch every time I found a proper name with the letter Y in it. I got drunk around page 100 and gave the rest of the book up.
This could be the story of Celimus, a boy born into a tragic fate he cannot hope to uphold. His mother has been forced into an arranged marriage with a much older king to secure trading rights, not for love. Refusing to bend her will, she raises her son to be brilliant, ruthless and stand up to his father...not understanding that a boy born in a house of no love cannot lead his people. Too late, his father has his mother assassinated. But the boy is already old enough to hear whispers, and soon discovers he will never be able to trust his father.
The two mens' paths diverge. Seeking to assert his flagging manhood, the King of Morgravia stokes the fire of war anew with the neighboring nation. Obediently, General Thirsk and his son Wyl ride off to battle, only for the General to throw his life away! Reaching out for the son he feels he never had, the King does not allow Wyl Thirsk to be sent off to a military academy. Instead, the King keeps Wyl close by at court, and the bond between king and prince is forever sundered.
Prince Celimus,for his part, clings to religion to give himself some direction. Witches, with their inhuman abilities to resist pain and their terrible curses, could have been treated as very real threats to the security of Morgravia. When Celimus' agents find one, the witch curses Wyl with heterochromia and...stuff. To protect himself, and to give Wyl Thirsk the training he needs if he is to lead the Morgravian army, Celimus wisely sends his new general off to the mysterious northern border...
...ah, but Fiona McIntosh is no Vladimir Nabokov. Heck, she isn't even Danielle Steele. The whole story is played tragically straight. If you're the author's favorite, you are good, noble and pure; if you're one of the author's targets, you are irredeemable.
To motivate myself, I took a drink of scotch every time I found a proper name with the letter Y in it. I got drunk around page 100 and gave the rest of the book up.
November 13, 2008
In some respects, Myrren's Gift is an average fantasy romp with everything you'd expect in a fantasy novel; court intrigue, battles, magic, a bit of romance etc etc. At times it's just a little tedious because it feels like I've read all of this stuff before. Certain charters seem to lack depth, and perhaps also intelligence, and it is frustrating to watch said characters trying to solve problems when the answer is so, so obvious.
However, the book certainly isn't terrible. There are well written scenes/chapters scattered throughout, and ultimately this is what kept me from giving up. I especially enjoyed reading of Wyl's time in the Mountain Kingdom. Of course, the concept of the Gift itself is also an interesting and original one, and I look forward to seeing how this magic unravels in the next two books.
However, the book certainly isn't terrible. There are well written scenes/chapters scattered throughout, and ultimately this is what kept me from giving up. I especially enjoyed reading of Wyl's time in the Mountain Kingdom. Of course, the concept of the Gift itself is also an interesting and original one, and I look forward to seeing how this magic unravels in the next two books.
February 12, 2025
4 Stars
Myrren's Gift is the first instalment in The Quickening series by Fiona McIntosh. This is high fantasy with magic, romance, drama, danger, intrigue, mystery, action, and adventure - a well-woven story which made for a fantastic read.
One of my go-to authors as I am always guaranteed of a great read.
As expected, she didn't disappoint!
Well worth the read!
Buddy Read - 2025
Happy Reading...
Thank you, Fiona McIntosh!
Myrren's Gift is the first instalment in The Quickening series by Fiona McIntosh. This is high fantasy with magic, romance, drama, danger, intrigue, mystery, action, and adventure - a well-woven story which made for a fantastic read.
One of my go-to authors as I am always guaranteed of a great read.
As expected, she didn't disappoint!
Well worth the read!
Buddy Read - 2025
Happy Reading...
Thank you, Fiona McIntosh!
June 28, 2011
Just when I thought I had Fiona Mcintosh all figured out, she gives me this jaw-breaking twist that ended the life of one of my favorite characters- which in turn led to the throwing of the hardbound copy of this damn book!
Yeah yeah. I got over that part now.
But seriously, you thought Robin Hobb was cruel to her characters? Then you have not read McIntosh.
Yeah yeah. I got over that part now.
But seriously, you thought Robin Hobb was cruel to her characters? Then you have not read McIntosh.
August 26, 2007
The concept behind this series is an interesting one. Unfortunately, the execution is weak. The three-book plot relies on character stupidity to keep it going, and the prose reads like a Harlequin parody. I kept reading mainly to see how bad it could get.
May 17, 2012
Terrible, TERRIBLE series. I was silly enough to buy all three books at once and so i read (or skimmed when i just could not take it anymore) the whole series.
0/5 . I'd give it less if i could. I recommend it to no one. Ever.
0/5 . I'd give it less if i could. I recommend it to no one. Ever.
November 6, 2012
A strong contender for the worst book from a major publisher I've ever read. Chock full of poor characterisation, point of view shifts, redundant plot threads and improbable twists.
October 12, 2019
Sympa mais un peu convenu
August 1, 2022
4,5 sterren - Nederlandse paperback
Recencie volgt later
Recencie volgt later
July 3, 2025
tig jaar terug gelezen en toen vond ik m erg leuk! Ik zag m nu bij een vriendin in de kast staan! misschien nog eens her-lezen
December 19, 2021
Myrren's Gift is an absorbing read. An excellent fantasy and adventure novel. The first book in the Quickening Trilogy. I read the beautiful new cover edition, this time - just released prior to Christmas 2021. Full of adventure, royalty, imagination and 'festive feasts'!
I loved hearing about the exquisite lantern flower where in the bell of each flower a tiny candle had been lit to make the whole flower glow brightly. The music and dancers enjoying their festivities.
The honey from the faraway lands of Morgravia.
I really enjoyed Myrren's Gift full of sword fights, witches and mystique.
This is a great adventure/fantasy read!
I look forward to reading the second novel in the Quickening series now, called Blood and Memory, also to be republished in the New Year of 2022.
I loved hearing about the exquisite lantern flower where in the bell of each flower a tiny candle had been lit to make the whole flower glow brightly. The music and dancers enjoying their festivities.
The honey from the faraway lands of Morgravia.
I really enjoyed Myrren's Gift full of sword fights, witches and mystique.
This is a great adventure/fantasy read!
I look forward to reading the second novel in the Quickening series now, called Blood and Memory, also to be republished in the New Year of 2022.
August 20, 2010
I've had to change my position on book burning after reading this orc entrails and tripe. I was dragged, jerked and jolted for 75 pages of agonizing uncharismatic characters, weak premise and terrible dialogue. Luckily,before too much self torture; I did some reconnaissance on this affliction i was reading and found, many poor souls had suffered far further reading then i and came to the same conclusion.
i should have left this in the thrift store bin in which i plucked it.
Save yourself, your brain cells, and the suffering.
It is that bad.
i should have left this in the thrift store bin in which i plucked it.
Save yourself, your brain cells, and the suffering.
It is that bad.
July 14, 2018
Complete with many twists, turns and surprises this book was a lovely read. The world building is amazing!
December 26, 2024
I'm so happy I found this book, and the second one, at the thrift store. Loved it so much, it's a page turner!
March 8, 2025
I was thrilled to receive Myrren’s Gift, a reissue of the first book in Fiona McIntosh’s trilogy, The Quickening. Years ago I read The Scrivener’s Tale, a stand alone novel set in the same world but centuries later, and I adored it. I’ve always meant to read the series but obviously got sidetracked, and I’m planning to correct that now.
Myrren’s Gift is set in the imaginative landscape of Morgravia and opens as fourteen year old Wyl Thirsk is called to take up the mantle of his birthright as Commander of the Morgravian Army after the death of his father. Wyl, good-natured, principled and a talented swordsman, quickly earns the respect of the King and his court, but the lasting enmity of the black-hearted crown Prince Celimus. Their differences are never so obvious than when Prince Celimus delights in the brutal torture of a young woman accused of being a witch, while Wyl attempts to ameliorate it, unwittingly earning himself a gift from the dying girl that will change everything.
This novel bears several of the hallmarks of the epic fantasy genre including intricate world-building, magic, court intrigue, tense conflicts, and the heart of a fair maiden to win, but it also has a sword & sorcery feel as Wyl embarks on a heroic quest to save his kingdom from the avaricious rule of Celimus.
Strong characterisation gives us a hero, albeit one with a unique twist, to rally behind, and a villain, or two, to despise. The main characters generally have well-crafted backstories and a layer of complexity, while the minor characters are easily categorised as either good or evil. I grew very fond of Fynch, a young boy who pledges his loyalty to Wyl; and of Wyl’s dog, who has a raft of enigmatic abilities.
McIntosh isn’t afraid to describe the brutal aspects of her fantasy world. There are elements of the story which may offend sensitive readers in the present climate, however I also suspect some critics willingly, or otherwise, overlook the nuance of the authors intention.
Not a short book at around 500 pages, the story nevertheless moves forward at a lively pace. I was caught up in the tension of the plot, reading it in one sitting. I wasn’t surprised to find it ended on a cliffhanger, luckily I can move straight on to the reissued editions of Blood and Memory and Bridge of Souls.
An entertaining and thrilling fantasy adventure, Myrren’s Gift is a great read from an accomplished storyteller.
Myrren’s Gift is set in the imaginative landscape of Morgravia and opens as fourteen year old Wyl Thirsk is called to take up the mantle of his birthright as Commander of the Morgravian Army after the death of his father. Wyl, good-natured, principled and a talented swordsman, quickly earns the respect of the King and his court, but the lasting enmity of the black-hearted crown Prince Celimus. Their differences are never so obvious than when Prince Celimus delights in the brutal torture of a young woman accused of being a witch, while Wyl attempts to ameliorate it, unwittingly earning himself a gift from the dying girl that will change everything.
This novel bears several of the hallmarks of the epic fantasy genre including intricate world-building, magic, court intrigue, tense conflicts, and the heart of a fair maiden to win, but it also has a sword & sorcery feel as Wyl embarks on a heroic quest to save his kingdom from the avaricious rule of Celimus.
Strong characterisation gives us a hero, albeit one with a unique twist, to rally behind, and a villain, or two, to despise. The main characters generally have well-crafted backstories and a layer of complexity, while the minor characters are easily categorised as either good or evil. I grew very fond of Fynch, a young boy who pledges his loyalty to Wyl; and of Wyl’s dog, who has a raft of enigmatic abilities.
McIntosh isn’t afraid to describe the brutal aspects of her fantasy world. There are elements of the story which may offend sensitive readers in the present climate, however I also suspect some critics willingly, or otherwise, overlook the nuance of the authors intention.
Not a short book at around 500 pages, the story nevertheless moves forward at a lively pace. I was caught up in the tension of the plot, reading it in one sitting. I wasn’t surprised to find it ended on a cliffhanger, luckily I can move straight on to the reissued editions of Blood and Memory and Bridge of Souls.
An entertaining and thrilling fantasy adventure, Myrren’s Gift is a great read from an accomplished storyteller.
November 22, 2021
Très bonne lecture.
Pour le coup, les choses mettent un peu de temps à se mettre en place, mais une fois que l’on comprend où veut aller l’auteure, et ce que signifie le titre, c’est gagné, on ne s’arrête plus.
Je trouve que le Dernier Souffle a des petits airs d’Assassin Royal (c’est une remarque positive) : on suit un jeune orphelin au sein d’une cour médiévale, au service d’un vieux roi pas très en forme, et dont le prince est particulièrement détestable (d’ailleurs, je ne crois pas avoir autant haï un méchant depuis Royal).
Le concept du Dernier Souffle est une chose avec laquelle j’ai beaucoup de mal, c’est notamment ce qui m’avait fait arrêter l’Assassin Royal. Mais au final… c’était hyper prenant, c’est justement cet événement qui fait que l’histoire, sous ses airs de fantasy classique, est si particulière et originale, et je suis définitivement réconciliée avec le concept en question.
Je trouve d’ailleurs la quête identitaire de Wyl très intéressante : sous l’influence du Dernier Souffle, et à force de vouloir se fondre dans le moule, il se perd parfois lui-même, et il semble influencé, à plus ou moins grande échelle.
J’ai donc hâte de voir la suite de ce tome 1, dont la fin promet un changement de point de vue chez Wyl et sûrement (j’espère) une évolution plus sombre de sa personnalité. De plus, j’ai tout un tas de questions en réserve, sur Myrren, son père, Fynch, Filou…. et bon sang, comme je souhaite une mort sanglante et douloureuse à Celimus !
Pour le coup, les choses mettent un peu de temps à se mettre en place, mais une fois que l’on comprend où veut aller l’auteure, et ce que signifie le titre, c’est gagné, on ne s’arrête plus.
Je trouve que le Dernier Souffle a des petits airs d’Assassin Royal (c’est une remarque positive) : on suit un jeune orphelin au sein d’une cour médiévale, au service d’un vieux roi pas très en forme, et dont le prince est particulièrement détestable (d’ailleurs, je ne crois pas avoir autant haï un méchant depuis Royal).
Le concept du Dernier Souffle est une chose avec laquelle j’ai beaucoup de mal, c’est notamment ce qui m’avait fait arrêter l’Assassin Royal. Mais au final… c’était hyper prenant, c’est justement cet événement qui fait que l’histoire, sous ses airs de fantasy classique, est si particulière et originale, et je suis définitivement réconciliée avec le concept en question.
Je trouve d’ailleurs la quête identitaire de Wyl très intéressante : sous l’influence du Dernier Souffle, et à force de vouloir se fondre dans le moule, il se perd parfois lui-même, et il semble influencé, à plus ou moins grande échelle.
J’ai donc hâte de voir la suite de ce tome 1, dont la fin promet un changement de point de vue chez Wyl et sûrement (j’espère) une évolution plus sombre de sa personnalité. De plus, j’ai tout un tas de questions en réserve, sur Myrren, son père, Fynch, Filou…. et bon sang, comme je souhaite une mort sanglante et douloureuse à Celimus !
May 30, 2023
Basically, I'm picky and would have preferred the characters to not have to act as if something awful was about to happen at any moment! I would also have preferred that more characters were likable...
The plot and the fantasy elements were all quite interesting and I probably would have liked this more and would feel more inclined to read the second and third books of this trilogy if the characters were nicer, or had a better support system/family communities... well, a world where things hadn't to be dire and violent and the bad guys so annoying.
The plot and the fantasy elements were all quite interesting and I probably would have liked this more and would feel more inclined to read the second and third books of this trilogy if the characters were nicer, or had a better support system/family communities... well, a world where things hadn't to be dire and violent and the bad guys so annoying.
October 5, 2014
First of all, let me inform you all about the reason why I chose this novel. I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but.. the snow-covered peaks, the ominous, looming fortress contrasting against the warm hue of orange..
I kinda fell in love with the cover. And the description on the back didn't actually sound so bad. So, I decided to give Myrren's Gift a go.
Aaanndd.. what a disappointment. Honestly, around halfway through the novel I was actually looking forward to finishing the novel and ending the pain I experienced whilst reading the badly described passages, the mundane, undeveloped characters, and the sexist, brutal,overly sexualised passages describing torture and prostitution.
The use of excessively detailed torture scenes (Wyl felt his stomach contents lurch into his throat as he heard the inevitable and sickening sound of Myrren's shoulders capitulating almost immediately), long, LONG paragraphs of dialogue to summarise previous events in the novel (long as in two pages long), and the overall misogynistic depiction of attractive, frail females make me wonder what Fiona McIntosh was trying to achieve..?
The plot was lost, there is no doubt about that. Separate subplots which started off strongly eventually merged into one aimless, wandering storyline. I admit, there were a few nice paragraphs of description (A mountebank entertained the meandering folk with his colourful patois, hawking a magical salve that promised to ease all aches and pains.) But, as with so many other fantasy stories, the creativeness of names, not to mention the abundances of characters with names, did not help establish the medieval atmosphere of this novel, but rather confused me.
A villain called Celimus? Another villain called Cailech? Then a mentor named Gueryn whose happenings seemingly disappeared halfway through the novel, only later to resurface (and aptly disappear again)? And then what's up with Ylena, Wyl's sister? He goes from being like I'll always protect you, your safety is my #1 concern to: Hey, here's a few priests at some sacred place I haven't really been to before. You'll be safe, sis! See ya!... like.. honestly, I had hope for the characters, but some of them, their stories just abruptly ended; others- well, I literally skimmed over whole paragraphs because they were simply irrelevant to the story. They provided no extra background interest, and most chapters, for lack of a better word, were simply boring.
Finally, one other thing that I did not find particularly amusing. As mentioned before, well, women are not depicted as headstrong, independent characters- but rather mere objects to fulfill the(sexual)desires of men. And yes, there are several scenes describing a man's lust for a woman, his desire to.. well, rape her? If I had a dollar for everytime the word 'brothel', 'breast' or 'whore' was used, I'd have enough money to buy a copy of this book. Not that I'd want to, anyway. Myrren's gift provides the main character- Wyl- with a power which does not allow him to die (when being killed by someone), but rather the ability to transform into his killer's body and become them- while, the original killer dies. Sorta original, I guess. But one thing that stood out was the fact that the beautiful Valentyna doesn't fall in love with Wyl (described as skinny, ugly, etc.), but when Wyl transforms into the confident, devishly handsome Romen, Valentyna is like I LOVE YOU, SLEEP WITH ME, FOREVER.
I mean, what kind of message does this give? You can only find love when you are good-looking? Women will always fall in love with handsome men and their handsome faces? In order to find love, make sure you're confident and attractive?
I might consider reading the next book in the series.. but then maybe, I won't.
I kinda fell in love with the cover. And the description on the back didn't actually sound so bad. So, I decided to give Myrren's Gift a go.
Aaanndd.. what a disappointment. Honestly, around halfway through the novel I was actually looking forward to finishing the novel and ending the pain I experienced whilst reading the badly described passages, the mundane, undeveloped characters, and the sexist, brutal,
The use of excessively detailed torture scenes (Wyl felt his stomach contents lurch into his throat as he heard the inevitable and sickening sound of Myrren's shoulders capitulating almost immediately), long, LONG paragraphs of dialogue to summarise previous events in the novel (long as in two pages long), and the overall misogynistic depiction of attractive, frail females make me wonder what Fiona McIntosh was trying to achieve..?
The plot was lost, there is no doubt about that. Separate subplots which started off strongly eventually merged into one aimless, wandering storyline. I admit, there were a few nice paragraphs of description (A mountebank entertained the meandering folk with his colourful patois, hawking a magical salve that promised to ease all aches and pains.) But, as with so many other fantasy stories, the creativeness of names, not to mention the abundances of characters with names, did not help establish the medieval atmosphere of this novel, but rather confused me.
A villain called Celimus? Another villain called Cailech? Then a mentor named Gueryn whose happenings seemingly disappeared halfway through the novel, only later to resurface (and aptly disappear again)? And then what's up with Ylena, Wyl's sister? He goes from being like I'll always protect you, your safety is my #1 concern to: Hey, here's a few priests at some sacred place I haven't really been to before. You'll be safe, sis! See ya!... like.. honestly, I had hope for the characters, but some of them, their stories just abruptly ended; others- well, I literally skimmed over whole paragraphs because they were simply irrelevant to the story. They provided no extra background interest, and most chapters, for lack of a better word, were simply boring.
Finally, one other thing that I did not find particularly amusing. As mentioned before, well, women are not depicted as headstrong, independent characters- but rather mere objects to fulfill the
I mean, what kind of message does this give? You can only find love when you are good-looking? Women will always fall in love with handsome men and their handsome faces? In order to find love, make sure you're confident and attractive?
I might consider reading the next book in the series.. but then maybe, I won't.
Read
January 14, 2018My first serious dip into Fiona McIntosh's fantasy, after enjoying her romance fiction. I have to say her fantasy is even better! I was warned by one review I read that it would be hard to put down, and that was true! The story is really engaging and gripping, the characters engaging and the plot really interesting.
March 11, 2017
I was guilty and bought this book from the cover. It started off strong. I was interested in the story until I found out with the "gift" was. When it was revealed, I laughed out loud. The main characters do really really dumb things. SPOILER...........ie: When you have assassins following you and you happen to kill one, don't mail back the head to the person who hired the assassin to show you killed him!!! That person will now know you are still alive and send more powerful enemies to kill you.
If you like where almost everyone has a y in their names and an unexplained near teleporting dog, read this book.
If you like where almost everyone has a y in their names and an unexplained near teleporting dog, read this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2014
DNF 5 chapters in. It's a fantastic fantastical (as in, magical) story...as far as I can see. But I don't hold with cheapening the story by introducing titillating torture. Oh sure, it's the bad guys torturing, but it was so overtly sexual and pointless. Perhaps it's done to show how 'bad' the bad guys are... Rubbish. It's done just to introduce questionable sexual material into an novel while maintaining the fiction that it is "clean".
April 22, 2020
Livre écouté sur Audible. Il s'agit d'une lecture commune.
Premier tome qui va mettre en place les personnages et les intrigues.
Personnages intéressants : nous allons côtoyer des rois, des princesses, des généraux.
Ambiance moyenâgeuse avec un brin de magie.
La suite s'annonce bien !
Premier tome qui va mettre en place les personnages et les intrigues.
Personnages intéressants : nous allons côtoyer des rois, des princesses, des généraux.
Ambiance moyenâgeuse avec un brin de magie.
La suite s'annonce bien !
Displaying 1 - 30 of 264 reviews