The Bonemender's Oath [Paperback]

Holly Bennett (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1, 2006

In The Bonemender, Gabrielle took her talent for healing into battle where her father died in her arms; she fell in love with a man who turned out to be an Elf, with a lifespan many times that of a Human, and she learned that she was not whom she had believed herself to be. Now, the war is over, but the threat from across the mountains has only withdrawn for the time-being, and danger lurks closer to home. Both Gabrielle and her brother Tristan must fight for their lives and for those they love, as Gabrielle struggles to save a young man who thinks himself her enemy.


(20061101)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 7 Up—Picking up where The Bonemender (Orca, 2005) left off, Gabrielle (the half human-half elf healer of the title) heads home to face the consequences of war, along with Tristan, elf Féolan, and Derkh. Tristan has a new enemy in LeBarque, who vows to have Rosalie for himself, even if it means killing Tristan. Meanwhile, Derkh struggles with his enemy identity: he was happy to have Gabrielle treat his war injuries, but is frightened to return to hostile territory with her. These confused feelings lead him to an escape into the forest that puts not only his own life, but also Gabrielle's, at risk. Clear, descriptive, fast-paced writing brings the characters to life, even in a comparatively short story. Bennett weaves together elements of love, vengeance, pain, and healing. Although the book will be better enjoyed by and slightly less confusing for readers of the earlier work, newcomers will appreciate the quick pace and tidy, though somewhat predictable, ending.—Carly B. Wiskoff, Sayville Library, NY
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Review

"[Holly Bennett's] prose is elegant and her insight into her characters' thoughts and hearts is moving and delightful. Excellent." (Resource Links 20061215)

"engaging characters, suspense, a subtle dose of humor and wonderfully descriptive tones....with strong ties to honor, love, family and friendship." (KLIATT 20061201)

"a powerful story that will grab the reader's attention and refuse to let go...a highly recommended read." (Teensreadtoo 20060901)

"Readers get a satisfying conclusion to the story...Bennett shows how patience and compassion can bridge cultural barriers..." (VOYA 20080615)

"Readers will find it hard to put the book down . . ." "Readers who enjoyed the first book in this high fantasy series will take pleasure in this exciting sequel." "Highly Recommended." (CM Magazine )

"...an engaging and enjoyable read..." (Canadian Book Review Annual )

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Orca Book Publishers (September 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1551434431
• ISBN-13: 978-1551434438
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 6 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,437,324 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars Courtesy of Teens Read Too, November 17, 2006

By 

TeensReadToo "Eat. Drink. Read. Be Merrier." (All Over the US & Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Bonemender's Oath (Paperback)

Readers met Gabrielle, the half-Elf princess of Verdeau with a talent for healing, in Holly Bennett's The Bonemender. Now she's back in THE BONEMENDER'S OATH, along with many characters whom readers of The Bonemender will be glad to see back in its sequel. The war between Gabrielle's people and those of the mysterious Greffier across the Krylian mountains is done, but Gabrielle's struggle to keep her people together and herself alive, while keeping to the oath she swore as a bonemender, is far from over. She's not alone, however; she's got Feolan, the Elf she loves, Derkh, the boy from Greffier whose life she saved during the war, and her family.

Speaking of her family, Gabrielle's brother Tristan has troubles of his own. He's fallen in love with Rosalie, but he's not alone in wanting her as his wife. The dark and dangerous LaBarque wants Rosalie for himself, and he's crazy enough to do whatever it takes--unless Tristan can stop him in time, saving himself as well as Rosalie.

Aside from their personal troubles, there are politics to consider for the people of Verdeau. They want peace in the Kryllian Basin, after the war in which many of their people, including Gabrielle and Tristan's father, the King, were killed. However, the Greffaires might have different ideas about what is to come.

Objectively, THE BONEMENDER'S OATH is not an exceptional book. The writing isn't breathtakingly brilliant, nor the plot. Still, though, everything mysteriously comes together to make a powerful story that will grab the reader's attention and refuse to let go! I read this book in one sitting, and I know I won't be alone in that. It is recommended to have read The Bonemender before reading this novel; I don't know how confusing it would be to someone who has not read that, but certainly more so than to someone who has. THE BONEMENDER'S OATH will meet the expectations of readers of Holly Bennett's previous book, with the same great characters and way of drawing you in completely; it is a highly recommended read for fans of fantasy!

Reviewed by: Jocelyn Pearce