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Destiny's Path #3
The Emerald Flame
THE EMERALD FLAME OF HER PEOPLE
Branwen has finally accepted that the Shining Ones have chosen her to save her country from the Saxon invaders. But the next stage in her journey includes a seemingly impossible mission, and the path before her is filled with darkness and danger. Branwen, and with each step she takes, she is being pulled farther from the life she once knew - the life she still desperately misses.
Guided by the spirits, with both her fearless friend Rhodri and the dashing, sometimes maddening Iwan by her side, Branwen must overcome terrifying odds if she is to succeed in her quest. But a true Warrior Princess won't back down... even when an old enemy returns.
"Do you not perceive the truth yet, Warrior Child? There have been no loose threads in the pattern of you life: All that has happened to you is but part of the same great design. All that you bear has its own purpose, its own part to play."
Branwen gasped at her. "Have you been haunting my family's steps from before I was born?" she exclaimed. "Has there been no moments of my life free of your wiles and your ruses and intrigues?"
Merion shook her head. "You do not listen, Warrior Child," she rebuked her. "It is not we who chose you; it its not we who wove the tapestry of your fate. It is She!"
Branwen has finally accepted that the Shining Ones have chosen her to save her country from the Saxon invaders. But the next stage in her journey includes a seemingly impossible mission, and the path before her is filled with darkness and danger. Branwen, and with each step she takes, she is being pulled farther from the life she once knew - the life she still desperately misses.
Guided by the spirits, with both her fearless friend Rhodri and the dashing, sometimes maddening Iwan by her side, Branwen must overcome terrifying odds if she is to succeed in her quest. But a true Warrior Princess won't back down... even when an old enemy returns.
"Do you not perceive the truth yet, Warrior Child? There have been no loose threads in the pattern of you life: All that has happened to you is but part of the same great design. All that you bear has its own purpose, its own part to play."
Branwen gasped at her. "Have you been haunting my family's steps from before I was born?" she exclaimed. "Has there been no moments of my life free of your wiles and your ruses and intrigues?"
Merion shook her head. "You do not listen, Warrior Child," she rebuked her. "It is not we who chose you; it its not we who wove the tapestry of your fate. It is She!"
344 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2009
10 people are currently reading
1285 people want to read
About the author
Allan Frewin Jones
102 books435 followersThis author has published under several versions of his name, including Allan Jones, Frewin Jones, and A.F. Jones. He has also published under the pen names Sam Hutton and Steven Saunders.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 17, 2011
This series started out a bit bland with Warrior Princess so I was skeptical to continue the rest of it. However, when I read Destiny’s Path and found myself enjoying it, I had high hopes for Emerald Flame. Sadly, I was disappointed. I thought it would be the finale for the series but apparently there’s a next book. I would have liked that idea if somehow this book had given me the same thriving endearment that I’ve felt with Destiny’s Path. However, Emerald Flame fell short of it.
I enjoyed how medieval-like this book was; with all the fighting, as brutal as it was, I loved the action and blood infused in the scene. Jones’ writing was vivid and all the action was like watching a film like 300 or Gladiator.
Another thing I enjoyed was the riddle and mystery of Branwen’s visions and the messages sent by the Old Ones to her. I’d draw my own conclusions on them and find myself wrong like Branwen was and the revelation of the truth was rather surprising. The deception and trickery gave an unexpecting twist to the story.
The drawback was how shallow the love interest between Branwen and Iwan was. I’d expected them to somehow develop a deeper connection with each other at this point but the book lacked it. My other problem was the pacing. The travel between lands was eventful enough as well as reaching enemy lands but the journey to and fro was so long that by the ending it seemed the climax was too short to suffice for the extensive waiting. Another thing that troubled me was the lack of development in the characters. It felt like starting with just what you left off. Nothing special.
For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com
Despite my dissatisfaction, I will remain optimistic and see what the next book will offer.
I enjoyed how medieval-like this book was; with all the fighting, as brutal as it was, I loved the action and blood infused in the scene. Jones’ writing was vivid and all the action was like watching a film like 300 or Gladiator.
Another thing I enjoyed was the riddle and mystery of Branwen’s visions and the messages sent by the Old Ones to her. I’d draw my own conclusions on them and find myself wrong like Branwen was and the revelation of the truth was rather surprising. The deception and trickery gave an unexpecting twist to the story.
The drawback was how shallow the love interest between Branwen and Iwan was. I’d expected them to somehow develop a deeper connection with each other at this point but the book lacked it. My other problem was the pacing. The travel between lands was eventful enough as well as reaching enemy lands but the journey to and fro was so long that by the ending it seemed the climax was too short to suffice for the extensive waiting. Another thing that troubled me was the lack of development in the characters. It felt like starting with just what you left off. Nothing special.
For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com
Despite my dissatisfaction, I will remain optimistic and see what the next book will offer.
September 28, 2011
Ok so this is the third book in the series and usually by the third book is if its not getting better i drop the series. Emerald Flame was in the middle of the road for me. Heres the break down of what i liked and didn't like....
Pros:
-Branwen is finally taking some initiative with her destiny
-Her merry band of friends have some nice bonding
-We get to see some of her cool fighting skills
-Iwan shows he likes Branwen by saying or doing random sweet things (likey)
-interesting interactions with the gods
-Lots of action filled drama
Cons:
-i feel like it had a lot of filler because its the middle of the series and the plot doesn't move fast enough
-romance is so slow
-Iwan shows he likes Branwen by being a bit of a bully or Rhodri sometimes(no likey)
-i feel like im more invested in Rhodri and Blodwedd as characters than Branwen and Iwan sometimes
Conclusion:
I did enjoy this book. it wasnt " omg i cant put it down" but it makes me want to find out what happens next in the series so 4 stars =)
Pros:
-Branwen is finally taking some initiative with her destiny
-Her merry band of friends have some nice bonding
-We get to see some of her cool fighting skills
-Iwan shows he likes Branwen by saying or doing random sweet things (likey)
-interesting interactions with the gods
-Lots of action filled drama
Cons:
-i feel like it had a lot of filler because its the middle of the series and the plot doesn't move fast enough
-romance is so slow
-Iwan shows he likes Branwen by being a bit of a bully or Rhodri sometimes(no likey)
-i feel like im more invested in Rhodri and Blodwedd as characters than Branwen and Iwan sometimes
Conclusion:
I did enjoy this book. it wasnt " omg i cant put it down" but it makes me want to find out what happens next in the series so 4 stars =)
January 15, 2011
OK well, I like this series so far but I was hoping it would come to an end. I know Authors like to milk it these days with trilogy's but More then three books and I get frustrated. This book is just another long quest with little about the characters and no forward movement in their lives. I hate middle books for that reason, most of the time there just fluff.You stick and 4 and 5 in their and I just want to scream from the non movement. So don't expect any relationships to move forward this book is about a quest the old ones send her on and even tho it was fun to read I felt like no questions were answered and nothing was resolved.
January 19, 2011
I feel like the character isn't learning and growing the way that I enjoy seeing. Somehow the story seems a little stagnant.
July 9, 2017
Although this series started out slow, it has culminated in a fitting battle with an unexpected villain and fine adventure along the way.
We find out merry band of travelers being tasked with a new quest and once again Branwyn must decide whether to continue down the path of the Shining Ones or turn away... I appreciated that the author finally skipped over the drama of this decision because by this point if she doesn't listen, bad things happen... there are some fun magic trinkets and you never know who you can trust in this fun conclusion to the series. I wish there was more!
We find out merry band of travelers being tasked with a new quest and once again Branwyn must decide whether to continue down the path of the Shining Ones or turn away... I appreciated that the author finally skipped over the drama of this decision because by this point if she doesn't listen, bad things happen... there are some fun magic trinkets and you never know who you can trust in this fun conclusion to the series. I wish there was more!
July 18, 2018
This book was soooo good! I feel that this book and the 2nd book "Destiny's Path" were tied as the best. I would suggest reading the first book and the second book (if you haven't read the first and the second books) to get what is going on in this book. This book is very clean, and has a good message/content to it. I would recommend this book to anyone, and anyone who likes wars, contentions, destiny's, and warriors.
February 9, 2018
I love this book. If you love tough girls, you'll love it too. My favorite tough girls in reverse order: #8 Helen of Troy by Esther Friesner, #7 Imogen by Sarah Skilton. #6 Dred by Ann Aguirre, #5 Keladry by Tamora Pierce, #4 Koko by Kieran Shea, #3 Lady Ilena by Patricia Malone, #2 Kimi by Maya Snow/Healy... and number one is Branwen by Frewin Jones.
October 23, 2017
An ok book series but not good enough to spend money for the fourth book.
February 9, 2025
Seriously, thank you. Strong female leads were my go to! Love this book series!!
January 26, 2015
It's been a good 2-3 years since I read the first two books in this series, and I have been waiting patiently for the chance to read this novel ever since. Not that I noticed the time gap when I started reading Merion of the Stones, I was sucked immediately into the ancient Scottish (I think) world. It felt like I had never left Branwen and her band of warriors. One of the reasons this happened is probably the beautiful language in the novel. When I'm reading I can see the scene almost perfectly. The way things are described and the character's dialogue are exactly what I believe the people in medieval Scotland would have spoken. The actions and choices made by characters also reflect the time period in which it is set perfectly. This included the action scenes, which read and flow really well. And Jones does not gloss over the gruesome parts. There is discussion of blood and injuries, the slippery ground of battlefields, shocking deaths which made the final few chapters somewhat heart wrenching, and betrayal.
Another aspect I love about these novels is Branwen's transformation and development as a character and human. When you're absorbed in the books, you don't consciously notice her changing attitudes, but they become apparent when you reflect. Each book changed Branwen in some way. It is great to watch her transformation from the arrogant, sheltered girl she was in the beginning to the leader she is now. In Merion of the Stones, she learnt truths about war, how the enemy is sometimes similar to your people, how first judgements cannot always be trusted, and how important it is to think of every possible outcome when leading a group of people.
And now I want to talk about actual scenes/things that happened in the book, which means there is the slight chance of small spoilers. I won't give away too much though. I promise.
Firstly, the twist at the end of the book with the person who betrayed Branwen. I wanted to say that I... half predicted it. I knew I did not trust that person, but I would never have guessed their identity. It was a pleasant shocking surprise which I did not quite expect.
And finally I want to know more about this second Chosen One that Blodwedd spoke about and Jones' intentions for him. All we know is that he has the sword that belonged to Branwen's new shield's former owner, he is male, live in Northumberland, and maybe his name. I can't remember that part. Anyway, I wonder how old he is or who he is exactly-- Actually, this just struck me then. Maybe he's Arthur--as in Camelot Arthur--and the sword is Excalibur. If not, I wonder if Jones will write about a companion series about this boy and his own path laid by the Shining Ones.
Anyway, the Destiny's Path/Warrior Princess series is definitely one I recommend to people. I am eagerly awaiting the fourth and final book, Caradoc of the Wind, and want to see how Branwen's adventures will end. Happily, I hope.
Another aspect I love about these novels is Branwen's transformation and development as a character and human. When you're absorbed in the books, you don't consciously notice her changing attitudes, but they become apparent when you reflect. Each book changed Branwen in some way. It is great to watch her transformation from the arrogant, sheltered girl she was in the beginning to the leader she is now. In Merion of the Stones, she learnt truths about war, how the enemy is sometimes similar to your people, how first judgements cannot always be trusted, and how important it is to think of every possible outcome when leading a group of people.
And now I want to talk about actual scenes/things that happened in the book, which means there is the slight chance of small spoilers. I won't give away too much though. I promise.
Firstly, the twist at the end of the book with the person who betrayed Branwen. I wanted to say that I... half predicted it. I knew I did not trust that person, but I would never have guessed their identity. It was a pleasant shocking surprise which I did not quite expect.
And finally I want to know more about this second Chosen One that Blodwedd spoke about and Jones' intentions for him. All we know is that he has the sword that belonged to Branwen's new shield's former owner, he is male, live in Northumberland, and maybe his name. I can't remember that part. Anyway, I wonder how old he is or who he is exactly-- Actually, this just struck me then. Maybe he's Arthur--as in Camelot Arthur--and the sword is Excalibur. If not, I wonder if Jones will write about a companion series about this boy and his own path laid by the Shining Ones.
Anyway, the Destiny's Path/Warrior Princess series is definitely one I recommend to people. I am eagerly awaiting the fourth and final book, Caradoc of the Wind, and want to see how Branwen's adventures will end. Happily, I hope.
February 22, 2011
he Chosen One of the Shining Ones, Branwen ap Griffith, continues the journey toward her destiny alongside her loyal followers. However, Branwen's plans to join the people of her homelands in their war against the Saxon invaders has once again been put on hold. The Shining Ones have a new task for Branwen: find the relic holding the wind god Caradoc prisoner and return it to Merion of the Stones. As if rescuing a god isn't hard enough, Caradoc's prison is in the very heart of the Saxon's main camp.
Branwen and her friends face fierce beasts and terrible foes as they continue their quest. Old friends and old enemies rise up around Branwen, and she is once again left wondering if the path she has chosen is the right one. Stalwart determination and the support of her followers give the Warrior Princess the faith to carry on in this never-ending saga of destiny, death, and magic.
The Emerald Flame is a beautiful and exiting installment in the Warrior Princess series that will leave readers craving the next one. Girls will look up to Branwen whose courage, strength, and sheer will power put her in a league of her own among the MG and YA heroines.
Frewin Jones's writing is, as always, wonderful. His way of sweeping you into mystic lands and dropping you among vivid characters keeps all of us reading. The Emerald Flame was no exception. The narration is flawless in capturing the mood and feel of the land as well as the characters. I also love the voice of the characters in their dialogue. Sometimes I feel a sort of echo between this and Lord of the Rings.
The third book of the Warrior Princess series is more about character development than the campaign of Branwen's people. While there is still enough action to keep you flipping the pages, I feel like we see Branwen grow up even more in this books than in the others. I also see how much she has changed since we were first were introduced to her.
In short, this book is wonderful with beautiful characters, scenery, and themes. Fans of high-fantasy or historical fiction would adore this novel. I must suggest reading the first two books before you get to this one, though. That way you can better understand Branwen's struggles and her opinions.
~Review by Arya @ A Sea of Pages (http://seaofpages.blogspot.com) <---Check it out!
Branwen and her friends face fierce beasts and terrible foes as they continue their quest. Old friends and old enemies rise up around Branwen, and she is once again left wondering if the path she has chosen is the right one. Stalwart determination and the support of her followers give the Warrior Princess the faith to carry on in this never-ending saga of destiny, death, and magic.
The Emerald Flame is a beautiful and exiting installment in the Warrior Princess series that will leave readers craving the next one. Girls will look up to Branwen whose courage, strength, and sheer will power put her in a league of her own among the MG and YA heroines.
Frewin Jones's writing is, as always, wonderful. His way of sweeping you into mystic lands and dropping you among vivid characters keeps all of us reading. The Emerald Flame was no exception. The narration is flawless in capturing the mood and feel of the land as well as the characters. I also love the voice of the characters in their dialogue. Sometimes I feel a sort of echo between this and Lord of the Rings.
The third book of the Warrior Princess series is more about character development than the campaign of Branwen's people. While there is still enough action to keep you flipping the pages, I feel like we see Branwen grow up even more in this books than in the others. I also see how much she has changed since we were first were introduced to her.
In short, this book is wonderful with beautiful characters, scenery, and themes. Fans of high-fantasy or historical fiction would adore this novel. I must suggest reading the first two books before you get to this one, though. That way you can better understand Branwen's struggles and her opinions.
~Review by Arya @ A Sea of Pages (http://seaofpages.blogspot.com) <---Check it out!
Read
March 11, 2020If you went by the cover of this book with it's attractive model, her flowing gown and the pretty swirly font you would think you were in for some light historical romance. Chic-lit set in the early years of Brython. You would be wrong. So very, very wrong.
I have really enjoyed this series. Normally I am under impressed with sequels, but these have all been very strong. The stories are a mix of character development and heavy action plot. Something I am not personally averse to. There is even some friendship, fantasy (in the form of gods), history, and romance mixed in. Where I would warn you against believing this to be historical fiction lite is in the gore and copious battle scenes found in all these books. Branwen and her band of followers tend to be looking for trouble. Not necessarily intentionally, but it's a known side effect of their missions (mostly saving their people from the invasions of the Saxons). Branwen does not shy away from killing and Jones does not shy away from describing it. I think it makes her an awesome female character. No need for a knight in shining armor here to teach our daughters that they are incapable of great things. And it's not a story that has a happy ending either. Branwen makes mistakes and pays for them, dearly.
So, I wonder, even though the cover is kind of awesome (and I love that the three books so far match really well), who designed it? Did they read the books? Because I feel like it doesn't really capture the story and might attract people who are not looking for this kind of fiction.
I have really enjoyed this series. Normally I am under impressed with sequels, but these have all been very strong. The stories are a mix of character development and heavy action plot. Something I am not personally averse to. There is even some friendship, fantasy (in the form of gods), history, and romance mixed in. Where I would warn you against believing this to be historical fiction lite is in the gore and copious battle scenes found in all these books. Branwen and her band of followers tend to be looking for trouble. Not necessarily intentionally, but it's a known side effect of their missions (mostly saving their people from the invasions of the Saxons). Branwen does not shy away from killing and Jones does not shy away from describing it. I think it makes her an awesome female character. No need for a knight in shining armor here to teach our daughters that they are incapable of great things. And it's not a story that has a happy ending either. Branwen makes mistakes and pays for them, dearly.
So, I wonder, even though the cover is kind of awesome (and I love that the three books so far match really well), who designed it? Did they read the books? Because I feel like it doesn't really capture the story and might attract people who are not looking for this kind of fiction.
August 20, 2011
Another awesome instalment to the Warrior Princess series.
In this instalment Branwen ap Griffith and her gang of warriors have to travel to see Merion of the Stones, one of the Shining Ones. The old crone has given Branwen ap Griffith a task that's basically suicide. To travel the heart of a saxon town called Chester and rescue Merion of the Stone brother, Caradoc of the North Wind whose been imprisoned in something that even Merion of the Stone doesn't know. Along their journey they fight a massive saxon warrior feared by many called Skur, pick up a captured maiden called Asta and meet Gavan ap Huw and his followers whose heading towards Gwylan Canu to give his alliance to King Cynon and also to the saxon town Chester, to find his long lost daughter Alwyn.
And finally there is some development between Branwen and Iwan, I knew there was something going on between them from book 1 but this finally confirmed it. For the love of CHEESE get together already and admit your feelings! You to Rhodri, i know how much your in love with Blodwedd and her with you.
This quote is one of the few parts between Iwan and Branwen,
He reaches out toward her. She held his eyes not flinching as his finger gently brushed her cheek. There was soreness-she had all but forgotten her injury. "Your wounded," he said. "Best have Rhodri tend it lest it fester."
She lifted her hand to where the blood was crying from the shallow cut on his forehead. There was strange delight in the feel of his skin under her fingertips.
In this instalment Branwen ap Griffith and her gang of warriors have to travel to see Merion of the Stones, one of the Shining Ones. The old crone has given Branwen ap Griffith a task that's basically suicide. To travel the heart of a saxon town called Chester and rescue Merion of the Stone brother, Caradoc of the North Wind whose been imprisoned in something that even Merion of the Stone doesn't know. Along their journey they fight a massive saxon warrior feared by many called Skur, pick up a captured maiden called Asta and meet Gavan ap Huw and his followers whose heading towards Gwylan Canu to give his alliance to King Cynon and also to the saxon town Chester, to find his long lost daughter Alwyn.
And finally there is some development between Branwen and Iwan, I knew there was something going on between them from book 1 but this finally confirmed it. For the love of CHEESE get together already and admit your feelings! You to Rhodri, i know how much your in love with Blodwedd and her with you.
This quote is one of the few parts between Iwan and Branwen,
He reaches out toward her. She held his eyes not flinching as his finger gently brushed her cheek. There was soreness-she had all but forgotten her injury. "Your wounded," he said. "Best have Rhodri tend it lest it fester."
She lifted her hand to where the blood was crying from the shallow cut on his forehead. There was strange delight in the feel of his skin under her fingertips.
August 14, 2014
So Branwen now has to find Shining One #3. And when she does find Shining One #3, she finds another journey and a bunch more bloody battles to fight.
The romance was kind of keyed down but it did get to the point where I just wanted to yell at certain somebodies to just spit it out and tell him/her how they felt. There were little gestures, and it was interesting to the potential for a love triangle that isn't being used. Go Jones!
The plot had a lot more secrets and a couple interesting turn of events. That along with the many battles that Branwen and her crew fought made the book very interesting. I didn't know that Dera was that bloodthirsty, either.
Branwen was really hard on herself as a leader of her people. She did make some mistakes in this novel because of her pride and other flaws that most of the human species have. It was interesting to see her accept her destiny, but also choose to do as she saw fit with it. She was given a task and yet, she helps people that she doesn't have to and she does things that aren't in her instructions from the Shining Ones. I think that shows that she is totally committed to crushing the Saxons for her country. That also means that those who doubt her and her path shouldn't because she is doing it for the good of her people. Duh.
Another solid novel in this series. I look forward to reading the next one.
The romance was kind of keyed down but it did get to the point where I just wanted to yell at certain somebodies to just spit it out and tell him/her how they felt. There were little gestures, and it was interesting to the potential for a love triangle that isn't being used. Go Jones!
The plot had a lot more secrets and a couple interesting turn of events. That along with the many battles that Branwen and her crew fought made the book very interesting. I didn't know that Dera was that bloodthirsty, either.
Branwen was really hard on herself as a leader of her people. She did make some mistakes in this novel because of her pride and other flaws that most of the human species have. It was interesting to see her accept her destiny, but also choose to do as she saw fit with it. She was given a task and yet, she helps people that she doesn't have to and she does things that aren't in her instructions from the Shining Ones. I think that shows that she is totally committed to crushing the Saxons for her country. That also means that those who doubt her and her path shouldn't because she is doing it for the good of her people. Duh.
Another solid novel in this series. I look forward to reading the next one.
April 8, 2012
Review also on: http://tarnishedmirrorsreviews.blogsp...
The emerald flame is the third installment in the warrior princess series.
If you like your heroines' covered in blood and able to weld a sword and shield then this is the book for you. You won't find any pampered princesses within these pages! Branwen is our barbarian princess, who under instruction from the Shining Ones (gods) is dead set on riding her country of the murderous Saxons who threaten to overtake her beloved Wales.The gorgeous and infuriating Iwan is now with her and it seems as if everyone else can see something between them that she cannot see herself.
The romance in this book is perfection. It is not rushed and each scene is something precious. I cannot wait to see this develop further in the next book!!
While there is a lot of violence in this book, it was not overly gruesome. The action scenes were well written, my eyes could not move quickly enough to keep up with all the action!
There were also some great twists to the story. It just keeps on getting better. Branwen is growing up into a strong and well rounded young woman and I can't wait to see what happens next. Read this series!
The emerald flame is the third installment in the warrior princess series.
If you like your heroines' covered in blood and able to weld a sword and shield then this is the book for you. You won't find any pampered princesses within these pages! Branwen is our barbarian princess, who under instruction from the Shining Ones (gods) is dead set on riding her country of the murderous Saxons who threaten to overtake her beloved Wales.The gorgeous and infuriating Iwan is now with her and it seems as if everyone else can see something between them that she cannot see herself.
The romance in this book is perfection. It is not rushed and each scene is something precious. I cannot wait to see this develop further in the next book!!
While there is a lot of violence in this book, it was not overly gruesome. The action scenes were well written, my eyes could not move quickly enough to keep up with all the action!
There were also some great twists to the story. It just keeps on getting better. Branwen is growing up into a strong and well rounded young woman and I can't wait to see what happens next. Read this series!
March 14, 2012
Review by Madison Year 9
Branwen, is a really strong heroine in this story, faced with the difficult task set by Merion of the Stones, an ancient God, in order to free her homeland. The task she faces is very difficult, she must face and kill one of the most feared warriors in the country. With her team by her side, Branwen sets off on this impossible mission, facing many fierce warriors along the way.
Branwen is such a terrific character, brave and powerful, a great role model. She is kind and thoughtful to the people around her, as well as clever. The one thing I didn't like was that Branwen didn't listen to the good advice Gavan gave her, she was too ashamed to admit that he was right doing what she thought was best to the detriment of the others. My favorite part was when Branwen was fighting Sker, the action was fast paced, exciting and thrilling. I really hope that Branwen and Iwan's relationship is developed further.
I can't wait to read the other books in the series.
Branwen, is a really strong heroine in this story, faced with the difficult task set by Merion of the Stones, an ancient God, in order to free her homeland. The task she faces is very difficult, she must face and kill one of the most feared warriors in the country. With her team by her side, Branwen sets off on this impossible mission, facing many fierce warriors along the way.
Branwen is such a terrific character, brave and powerful, a great role model. She is kind and thoughtful to the people around her, as well as clever. The one thing I didn't like was that Branwen didn't listen to the good advice Gavan gave her, she was too ashamed to admit that he was right doing what she thought was best to the detriment of the others. My favorite part was when Branwen was fighting Sker, the action was fast paced, exciting and thrilling. I really hope that Branwen and Iwan's relationship is developed further.
I can't wait to read the other books in the series.
January 11, 2011
Once again, Frewin Jones has spun a tale worth reading with Branwen and her friends. The pacing was wonderful and the writing style easily captured my imagination.
However, I was disappointed that there was such little romantic development. I expected a little more, as is implied. While there were definitely more-than-friendly feelings, even a few specific sections, Jones fails to develop this as much as I had hoped for.
Rhodri remains a good, steadfast friend through everything, and it's quite hard to not fall in love with him. Iwan continues to be the hot yet irritating character. Blodwedd's character develops beautifully, as do all of Jones' characters.
This was really a very well-written story, and I find myself looking forward to the sequel.
However, I was disappointed that there was such little romantic development. I expected a little more, as is implied. While there were definitely more-than-friendly feelings, even a few specific sections, Jones fails to develop this as much as I had hoped for.
Rhodri remains a good, steadfast friend through everything, and it's quite hard to not fall in love with him. Iwan continues to be the hot yet irritating character. Blodwedd's character develops beautifully, as do all of Jones' characters.
This was really a very well-written story, and I find myself looking forward to the sequel.
April 7, 2013
And the trilogy comes to an end (of sorts) no more interesting than anything that has come before. One-sided, flat characters move through a predictable but mildly interesting story. Any growth or change that could have happened - and there was potential for this - was told to us by the author, rather than shown to us. Real growth or change of any character was insignificant. I would not read them again, nor would I buy them, certainly, but they made a light diversion for a weekend when I did not feel well.
Oh, and at one point in the middle of this (the third book in the series) Brython suddenly becomes Britain and then changes back. You'd think someone would have caught this in the editing process.
Oh, and at one point in the middle of this (the third book in the series) Brython suddenly becomes Britain and then changes back. You'd think someone would have caught this in the editing process.
January 18, 2013
I really did try to love the series but I think I am just going to have to give up. THe book was not bad, an improvement over the first two by far but in the end it was the same old thing. Branwen refuses to accept her destiny as the chosen Warrior Child of the Shining Ones. She once agian is choosing to go her own way even though in the past each time she has done this it has proven to be a really bad idea. I don't think I will be reading the next book in the series anytime soon if at all. I have given enough of my time to this series that continues to be a frustrating disapointment with a main character that continues to be a flake.
May 5, 2013
THIS BOOK!! So many surprises but so good! To begin with, WHY DOES THE AUTHOR NOT SPECIFY BRANWEN'S RELATIONSHIP TO IWAN OR RHODRI!? I can expect it with Rhodri though, DONE, DONE, AND DONE! Hahahaha but it's true so. You know. It's gonna work with Iwan, it's inevitable, there's no other guy. Be real.
Alright so with Blodwedd almost dieing and Gavan's death my reaction to everything else was basically
1. Oh, something happened
2. What?
Alot of information to understand in this book. I still don't understand how Asta/ Skur died at this moment.
Going back to the relationship statuses
1. Rhodri and Blodwedd
2. Iwan and Branwen
Can i have a woop-woop? :D
Alright so with Blodwedd almost dieing and Gavan's death my reaction to everything else was basically
1. Oh, something happened
2. What?
Alot of information to understand in this book. I still don't understand how Asta/ Skur died at this moment.
Going back to the relationship statuses
1. Rhodri and Blodwedd
2. Iwan and Branwen
Can i have a woop-woop? :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2011
A worthwhile addition to the Warrior Princess series though the ending leads us to believe that there will be another book! I like that Branwen makes mistakes that have real consequences for her and that affect other characters in the book. I am waiting for some explanation of Iwan's behavior. I realize that he is in love with Branwen so antagonizing her best friend is a good way to show that? And he does it more than once. I will be really disappointed if we don't get a good explanation for this in the next book.
May 29, 2012
To be honest, I didn't get past the halfway mark. I always try to get through at least half of every book I try, but if it's become too challenging at that point, I give up. I enjoyed the previous two installments of this series, but I became frustrated with the lack of progress, the repetition of action and little character development. The book just seemed to go on and on with no real exit strategy or payoff. I may try it again later, but I think I'll probably give the rest of the series a miss.
July 25, 2013
Branwen has been chosen by the Shining One's to free her people from the Saxon's that keep invading. When I got this book I didn't realize it was the middle of the series. It's the awkward volume where character development moves forward a little; relationships inch forward, but the real focus is on the action. It works as a stand alone tale, there is definitely a beginning middle and end but you know there is more of everything coming.
I might look into the rest of series. The characters were interesting and the action was fun.
I might look into the rest of series. The characters were interesting and the action was fun.
June 6, 2016
Finally, something to keep my attention. I'm finally feeling like I have to know what's happening next. It still falls short of what a story like this could be. But I feel like everything was much better developed and thought through. It had more believable action bits, much better dialogue. I actually care for what happens to the characters. I was upset over the deaths, and the wounded. Something I really wasn't in the last two books.
September 23, 2012
This series did it again. I realy did enjoy this book, the first one was still the best but it was still enjoyable. I thought this book had a lot of good surprises at the end and if you read the first book just read them all. I still do think that Branwen and Iwan shoud actualy admit that they like each other because I know they do. This book is for ages 13 or 14 through 16 or 17. Happy Reading! I give it more of a 3.5.
September 27, 2014
Like :
Fast paced.
More event happened.
New addition of characters .
Dislike :
The Shining Ones is not all powerful.
Others Saxon and Viking Gods entering the fight.
Branwen too weak as a leader. Always win by chance or luck
Branwen kept shouting about being The Emerald Flame of her people and etc after the battle...just anti-climax. Would be nicer if shouting something like this asking her people to follow her into battle instead.
Fast paced.
More event happened.
New addition of characters .
Dislike :
The Shining Ones is not all powerful.
Others Saxon and Viking Gods entering the fight.
Branwen too weak as a leader. Always win by chance or luck
Branwen kept shouting about being The Emerald Flame of her people and etc after the battle...just anti-climax. Would be nicer if shouting something like this asking her people to follow her into battle instead.
January 18, 2011
pretty good. I liked this one the most after the first one. Still no anknowledge of feelings. I think Iwan has recognize his feelings for Brawnen, but she hasn't. and Rhodi has for the owl-girl, but she hasn't either, because of what she is. i hope there is another one in the works, because i can't wait read what is going to happen next for Brawnen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2013
i have read warrior princess and destiny's path. after i finished destiny's path i knew i had to read the last one. comparing all the books the first one was my all time favorite but i LOVED the emerald flame. this is one of my favorite serious. it was different then the books i usually read but it turned out to be better than what i expected
November 12, 2010
It took me a while 2 remember wat was going on again. Once I remembered it was easy 2 follow along and could really get into it. It us an awesome book and it leads on 2 a 4th book. Of course it the end the evil is defeated til they come bck l8r on
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