Customer Reviews

The Jewel of Tamar

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"The Jewel of Tamar" introduces the reader to the world of Gilalion, a fantasy realm of the author's own device. The story centers around two young elves, unaware of their peculiar heritages, forced to walk the path of their destiny. The story in and of itself is quite enchanting, especially so for those familiar with K. Alease White's Gilalion based web site or her Tsujatha mod for Baldur's Gate II. However, the story's execution is somewhat flawed. White's writing ability is lacking - she dedicates numerous pages and chapters to mundane and repetitive incidents, while sparing a few, rushed pages for the tale's climatic events. Furthermore, her writing is amateurish, most defiantly not on par with modern fantasy fiction's star writers (Terry Brooks, George R.R. Martin, Robbin Hobbs, etc.). Numerous spelling mistakes can be found throughout the book. Overall, it is what you would expect to find on a free online site devoted to fan fiction. Because of its high cost, this book is not for you unless you are truly enchanted with White's fantasy realm.

In this her first work, K. Alease White has introduced us to the rich and multitextured world of Gilalion. In a fluid, readable style, White is uncannily able not only to draw the reader into the extravagant tale she has woven, but also to give the distinct impression that the characters and events unfolded here are but a footnote to an unimaginably larger and even more compelling mythology. If any critique can be leveled at this work, it is that it is far too short, and one can only hope that a sequel is not too long in the making.

This is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone. It has a concentration on character development that does not slow down its fast pace or ignore the diversity and beauty of its setting. Rich characters and landscapes give it heart and a tremendous depth. Any fan of the fantasy genre, or even those new to it, will enjoy this book from cover to cover. Fascinating characters range from the pure-hearted to the darkest of souls and the tragedy of some stuck in between. I definitely can't wait for the next installment in this beautiful and dangerous world of Gilalion!

The very first paragraph had me hooked. I love the characters and the story. I love this book. I read alot of books from both ends of the spectrum, I have few favorites, but this one rates in the top 3.

I think that this book was wonderful. I know it might sound sentimental but I was able to travel along with the characters and to fight along side them as a read the book. The writing was teriffic and down to earth.