Book Description
Tome of Battle introduces a new combat subsystem for the D&D game. Tome of Battle introduces new rules for players who want new and interesting combat options for their characters. The nine martial disciplines presented within allow a character with the proper knowledge and focus to perform special combat maneuvers and nearly magical effects. Three new martial adept base classes are presented that allow a character to develop their discipline even further. Also included are new feats and prestige classes that build on the disciplines, new magic items and spells, and new monster and organizations.
Customer Reviews:
Our new favorite PC book.......2007-10-06
My entire gaming group reached a consensus: this book is our new favorite book for core classes in DnD 3.5.
First off, a cautionary note: DM's WILL want to read this before letting their player with all the disposable income roll up a character from this book, as its systems are complicated and the character abilities have been created almost whole-cloth. In general, we've found the classes to be powerful for a long time over a long series of encounters, but not QUITE overly so. When compared to the amount of damage a like-level sorcerer can throw around or a twinked-out feat-er, they're about right.
The core mechanics added are the nine martial Styles, which provide a choice of Maneuvers and Stances.
Styles: various fun, flavor-filled fighting styles, each with their own distinct forms, themes, signature weapons, etc. Example: Desert Wind focuses on slashing weapons and often allows a fighter to move quickly around the battlefield and deal elemental fire damage.
Maneuvers: Specific martial attacks with often near-spell-like effects that add a distinct descriptive element to the game. Maneuvers are used once, then lost, but can be regained during combat in a number of different ways, depending on your core class. Many attack-based maneuvers focus on making one standard action to achieve a very nice, powerful effect, so if your player knows his rules, this can actually speed UP combat if he usually plays a dual-wielding cheese monster (no, that's NEVER happened in any of my games...)
Stances: A martial stance that provides a continuous, ongoing benefit. Players can switch between them as a swift action.
The core classes are all very cool, and determine which Styles you have access to. As they start, they have access to a choice of lower-level maneuvers and stances, but these can be readily switched out later for more powerful ones, so their early choices don't become useless later on. In fact, the core classes are so cool, you often will stop looking for a prestige class, unless it is one of the few included in the book that also make use of the martial stance/maneuver system.
In addition to having access to specific style choices, each class also gets interesting class abilities as well. One cool example: the Warblade, a medium-armor figher type, can buy fighter-specific feats as an equivalent figher a few levels lower (read: weapon specialization, greater weapon specialization, etc.). In addition, they can CHANGE any weapon-specific feats to focus on a different weapon, such as weapon focus, weapon spec., with only a short amount of exercise at the beginning of the day. Did your character focus on swords but find a sweet magical greataxe? No problem.
Fans of White Wolf's Exalted game with notice some similarity in the stances and maneuvers to Exalted's Charm structure, the big plus being that lower-powered maneuvers learned early in a characters career can be switched out for higher ones, rather than lingering around at higher levels not doing anything like a bag of caltrops.
All in all, the Book of Nine Swords is not a must-have to play the game, and is certainly not appropriate to every single type of campaign, but most long-time DnD players will find the book adds new spice to their game, with new and interesting options that remain effective no matter what level your character is at the moment.
JT
Excellent.......2007-08-09
Great new classes in the book. It opens up wonderful new possibilities for melee characters.
broken but fun (review is for ppl who know the game).......2007-08-02
I haven't totally devoured the entire book. However, i am currently playing a third level Warblade (class level of four) in a very active campaign. I made sure to OK the class with the DM before using it. I made sure he was aware of how some people declare the class is broken, but he said it would be fine.
I have to admit, i didn't think it was broken until i had taken a few levels in the class. In short, my character just seems over powered, in combat. At the cost of next to nothing, he can add an extra d6 of damage to every other attack...and that is only one of the five "maneuvers" he has in his repertoire. As he continues to level, the amount of extra damage dice continues to climb. Along with these dice come other perks, such as disallowing your enemy to move for a round, or to bypass damage reduction. It just seems too easy to accomplish spell-like abilities for no real cost to the character.
It feels as though these maneuvers not only take the place of figher feats, they are far superior to them. Also, the Warblade gets some pretty decent class features, that make it almost swashbuckelerish, without any real penalties. My character is a Dwarven tank.
I should note that we are playing a rather high powered campaign. Strength and Constitution are both 18 and he has points in Intelligence to aid with the class abilities of the Warblade. He also has no negative modifiers on any of his abilities (all are 10 or above). However, all other characters were made using the same sytem.
I certainly wouldn't say the book is bad. The system they lay out for maneuvers and stances works and is consistent. I certainly have fun playing the axe-wielding cuisinart who mops up the bad guys. Our campaign has a deep enough storyline that just excelling in combat doesn't make for an over-powered character compared to the other characters.
But just be warned, that if you have a large party, with more than one front-line fighter, there may be some jealous glances thrown the way of your Warblade. And if your players aren't mature enough, you may find some arguments breaking out.
Cool new classes and system.......2007-07-19
The classes in this book are awesome and the weapon techniques are cool. The desert wind school has some of the coolest abilities as the shadow hand style. It makes for interesting strategic combat.
Excellent resource for high power campaigns.......2007-07-16
Gamers who play low-power, goblin-bashing campaigns will find little use with this resource. Using any of the classes or even some of the feats will greatly disrupt the balance of power in any low-magic, low-power gaming style. However, for those whose prefer supplemental books such as Epic or Unearthed Arcana , this is a fun and much needed resource.
This book brings relevancy to the fighter-based classes. In any high-power campaign, wizards, clerics, pscions and even druids wipe the floor with fighters and barbarians. Tome of Battle provides three alternative fighter classes that have spell-like abilities they may execute several times per day. Using martial-art style maneuvers, stances and counters, these ultra-fighters do extra damage, strike multiple targets, unleash a whip of fire or pounce like a wild cat.
I am a DM who eagerly purchased this book when it was first published. Now, I cannot run a campaign without at least one player choosing a Warblade or Swordsage. Even at low levels, I can really open up the Monster Manual and provide new, challenging and diverse encounters without having to worry about killing the PCs too quickly.
But more than bringing balance to my high-powered campaign, it makes fighter fun for all of my players, most of whom have been playing D&D for two decades. Versatility, adaptability and creativity have never been the hallmarks of the fighter classes, and for that reason, experienced players tend to choose classes with more depth. Tome of Battle brings that much needed depth to the fighter. This book makes fighters fun again. That's worth all of five stars.
Book Description
Combat isn't everything -- it's the only thing.
The masters of armed and unarmed combat, fighters and monks, come into their own in this book. It's packed with ways to customize fighter and monk characters, including:
New feats, prestige classes, weapons, and equipment
Information about special organizations such as the Red Avengers and the Knight Protectors
Maps of locations that fighters and monks frequent: guard towers, monasteries, and a gladiatorial arena
Indispensable to both players and
Dungeons Masters, this book adds excitement to any campaign.
Customer Reviews:
Good book.......2006-02-02
While I don't think you have to run out and get this supplement, I also feel like it adds a lot to the game. Not only are there some new feats, equipment, and prestige classes, but of even greater value are some of the sections which discuss new spins on existing rules. There's a few pages, for example, which go into the ways in which large fighters(or monks... scary), such as giants, can use the class feats and abilities to make the most of their size. For me, just the fact that I took another look at the existing rules would've made it worth the money I spent.
Mediocre product.......2004-07-12
Sword & Fist is a neat book, and for 10 bucks, i would have considered it an excellent buy. But unfortunatly, for 20 bucks, it is highly over priced.
There are some new feats in here that are pretty neat, but most of the feats are geared towards Monks. Some feats also have no value whatsoever, such as "Dirty Fighting" which lets you make a single attack as a full-round action, adding +1d4 to the damage.
The prestige classes are either excellent or horribly worthless. My personal favorites though, is the Weapon Master and Duelist. All the others are generally meant for certain organizations, or as antagonists, such as the Ravagers, the Red Avanger, and the Ninja of the Crescent Moon.
The tactics section is utter garbage. It just gives you the "proper usage" of feats like Cleave and Spring Attack. It also gives out pointers as the hit-ratio percentage of using the monk's 'Flurry of Blows.' Theres also some strategies about using Monstrous Fighters and Monks and mounted opponents and such.
One fine section of the book, which is the new weapons and equipment, was pretty intriguing. They seem more powerful then the weapons in the Player's handbook, but all the ones represented in SaF are exotic weapons, and thus require the Exotic Weapon Proficiency feat. The mercurial swords, Whip Daggers, and the Orc Shotput are some definite winners.
Overall, a useful book, but dont pay 20 dollars for it.
The ultimate suppliment.......2003-12-15
I found that this book contained everything I've been looking for: great new weapons, very useful feats, and lots of new prestige classes (I always wanted to make a Samurai!) "Sword and Fist" also contains various buildings which can be useful for DMs to base, for instance, a guard tower or an elf house on. If there is anything I was dissapointed about was how little information there was on chariots, but then, the book would also be better a thousand pages long. FIVE STARS!
Aspiring to Mediocrity and Failing.......2002-12-13
Sword and Fist is the first book in one of the worst series of supplements to ever be released for D&D.
Sword and Fist has the following significant problems:
1) There are six pages of errata for a 95 page book.
2) An excessive amount of space is wasted in repetitive charts.
3) The feat section is a handful of feats that seem to have been chosen at random for their "cool" factor.
4) Many of the feats are either incredibly useful, or not useful at all. For example, Power Lunge could allow a third level character to inflict 14 extra points of damage with a single attack while on the other hand Dirty Fighting requires that a character forego all his extra attack to get 1d4 extra damage. These benefits are not equal in any way, shape or form.
5) Some of the prestige classes, like the Fist of Hextor and the Ravager, absolutely can not be used by a player character, so why are they present in a player oriented book?
6) Other prestige classes, like the Duelist, Devoted Defender, Ghostwalker, and Gladiator are obviously copies of movie characters without giving any credit to the source of inspiration.
7) Some of the prestige classes, like the Fist of Hextor, Knight Protector of the Great Kingdom, Ninja of the Crescent Moon, Order of the Bow Initiate, Red Avenger and Warmaster are tied to specific organizations and/or locations. It simply makes no sense to put them in what should be a relatively generic source book. For example, the Warmaster and the Knight Protector should be in a supplement for the Kingdom of Furyondy or the Great Kingdom respectively.
8) The organization section takes some of the organizations from the Living Greyhawk Gazetteer and rewrites them, and then adds new organizations that have nothing to do with the World of Greyhawk. Focusing either on Greyhawk material or on generic material would have greatly improved the book.
9) The "Game within the Game" chapter is just a basic tutorial on tactics. Not very interesting and it's recommendations are mediocre at best.
10) The tools of the Trade section is probably the single worst section of the book. The stats for most of the weapons are wrong, and many of the weapons are either bizarre, inappropriate or both. The "cool" mercurial weapons are a joke, because mercury reacts with steel to create a brittle alloy. Thus the weapons are not only impractically difficult to manifacture, they'd be worthless in combat.
11) This is a player oriented book, thus there is no reason for any magic items to be in the book at all.
On the upside:
1) The Cavalier, Duelist, and Weapon Master are among the best prestige classes in this entire series. They are generic enough to be adapted to any campaign world, and useful enough to be worth the costs to a variety of character types.
Overall, I received the impression that the author did not try to write "a good book", but merely one that was "good enough". He failed. I heartily recommend to anyone who is thinking of buying this book:
Save your money and buy something good.
Too pricey for a little book like this.......2002-11-27
Honestly the only reason to buy this book (or any of the Class Guidebooks)is for the new Feats and Prestige Classes. Instead of creating different books for the different Player Classes they should have just created a Feats and Prestige Classes book.... I'll never understand why a flimsy little paperback, black-and white book like this cost as much as the core rulebooks which are hardcover and have color art. So ends my gripe session.
Now the good things about this book are indeed the new feats and prestige classes. They really let you customize your character to get just the Fighter or Monk character that you want. Want to play a Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon style of Monk? No Problem. There is a Prestige Class for it. How about a true blue Cavalier... again, no problem. By adding Prestige Classes that a Monk can freely multiclass with give a little more depth to a terribly limited character class (by the Core Player's Handbook all Monks have pretty much the same abilities).
I'd have rated this product higher if only Wizards of the Coast didn't try to gouge us gamers with the insanely high price.
Average customer rating:
- ALWAYS be polite to dragons!
- Oh no a dragon
- SO much fun!
- any more on the way?
- A Truly Enchanting and Wonderful Read.
|
Talking to Dragons: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book Four
Patricia C. Wrede
Manufacturer: Magic Carpet Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
Dragons | Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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( W ) | Authors, A-Z | Science Fiction & Fantasy | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books | Weber, David | Weis, Margaret | Wells, H.G.
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Similar Items:
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Calling on Dragons: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book Three
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Searching for Dragons: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book Two
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Dealing with Dragons: The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, Book One
-
Book of Enchantments
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Mairelon the Magician (The Magician)
ASIN: 0152046917 |
Book Description
One day, Daystar's mom, Cimorene, hands him a magic sword and kicks him out of the house. Daystar doesn't know what he is supposed to do with the magic sword, but knowing Cimorene, he's sure it must involve a dragon or two!
Customer Reviews:
ALWAYS be polite to dragons!.......2007-06-23
My daughters often read the four books from the Enchanted Forest series by Patricia C. Wrede. They came across the books a couple years back. They seem to check out the books and audio tapes every couple months. Over the last year I have listened to bits and pieces of the series.
Talking to Dragons is was the first book published, but it is really the fourth in the series. The hero of the story is a 16 year old boy by the name of Daystar. For the first 16 years of his life he lived on the edge of the Enchanted Forest with his mother. Then one day his mother gives him a sword and sends him out into Enchanted Forest. His mother tells him he has a mission, but won't tell him what the mission is.
Fairly quickly Daystar bumps into a fire-witch. They are both in trouble with wizards, and decide to stick together. Daystar was taught to always be polite to dragons. They come across a young dragon. Daystar is very polite and the dragon joins the group. Near the end of the book Daystar finally figures out his mission and helps save the day.
This is a fun book. It moves along well. I stayed up till midnight to finish it. If your children like fantasy, you might have them try this book.
Oh no a dragon.......2007-02-09
Talking To Dragons Jane Yolen Books,
Patricia C. Wrede ISBN 0-15-284247-0
Talking to Dragons is a great book about kings, princes, princesses, dragons, and wizards by Patricia C. Wrede. It takes place in Enchanted Forest. The narrator of the book is the main character, Daystar.
One day Daystar's mom tells him to go on a quest that he knows nothing about. He started out on a quest and meets new creatures and people, some of them become his companions and some his enemies.
His companions, a young fire witch named Shiara and a young dragon, become really good friends with him. They help him on his quest. After a while he started to figure out that the sword his mom gave him was important because everybody wanted it. People called it "The Sword of the Sleeping King." All he knew is that he needed to go through a cave to be where he was supposed to.
At the end he found the Sleeping King and everybody was reunited. I recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy and also a happy ending. I recommend reading the first three books Dealing With Dragons, Searching For Dragons and Calling for Dragons.
PR28
SO much fun!.......2006-09-25
All the Enchanted Forest Chronicles are so much fun! Definitely at my top of Harry Potter fan recommendations. They're just such an amusing read; I even teach with them. Don't forget to read "The Frying Pan of Doom."
any more on the way?.......2006-09-19
Written first, this is actually the final book in the series (so far, at least). This story features the son of Mendanbar and Cimorene: Daystar. Daystar has been reared on the edge of the Enchanted Forest without any knowledge of who he is or how he and his mother came to be there. Shortly after a wizard appears on their doorstep, he watches his mother melt the wizard and he is sent on his way into the Enchanted Forest with a sword and instructions from his mother to always be polite, especially to dragons, and NEVER agree to a favor until you know what it is. Almost immediately Daystar gains a companion, Shiara, who happens to be a fire witch. Together they follow the sword wherever it leads them, which brings us back to some familiar characters. In the end Daystar realizes many things, including what he is to do and how he is to do it - but not without a lot of help and teamwork from many friends and companions. This was an interesting finale as it definitely left an opening for novels of the next generation of the Enchanted Forest.
A Truly Enchanting and Wonderful Read........2006-06-20
I stumbled upon this book first - it's the 4th in a series by Wrede. It is really at least as much fun and imaginative as Harry Potter with more logic and a fun side without the dark side. A great read for kids or adults. Truly magical and special.
Book Description
Fantasy fans, rejoice! Seven years after writer and editor Robert Silverberg made publishing history with Legends, his acclaimed anthology of original short novels by some of the greatest writers in fantasy fiction, the long-awaited second volume is here. Legends II picks up where its illustrious predecessor left off. All of the bestselling writers represented in Legends II return to the special universe of the imagination that its author has made famous throughout the world. Whether set before or after events already recounted elsewhere, whether featuring beloved characters or compelling new creations, these masterful short novels are both mesmerizing stand-alones—perfect introductions to the work of their authors—and indispensable additions to the epics on which they are based. Beyond any doubt, Legends II is the fantasy event of the season.
ROBIN HOBB returns to the Realm of the Elderlings with “Homecoming,” a powerful tale in which exiles sent to colonize the Cursed Shores find themselves sinking into an intoxicating but deadly dream . . . or is it a memory?
GEORGE R. R. MARTIN continues the adventures of Dunk, a young hedge knight, and his unusual squire, Egg, in “The Sworn Sword,” set a generation before the events in A Song of Ice and Fire.
ORSON SCOTT CARD tells a tale of Alvin Maker and the mighty Mississippi, featuring a couple of ne’er-do-wells named Jim Bowie and Abe Lincoln, in “The Yazoo Queen.”
DIANE GABALDON turns to an important character from her Outlander saga—Lord John Grey—in “Lord John and the Succubus,” a supernatural thriller set in the early days of the Seven Years War.
ROBERT SILVERBERG spins an enthralling tale of Majipoor’s early history—and remote future—as seen through the eyes of a dilettantish poet who discovers an unexpected destiny in “The Book of Changes.”
TAD WILLIAMS explores the strange afterlife of Orlando Gardiner, from his Otherland saga, in “The Happiest Dead Boy in the World.”
ANNE McCAFFREY shines a light into the most mysterious and wondrous of all places on Pern in the heartwarming “Beyond Between.”
RAYMOND E. FEIST turns from the great battles of the Riftwar to the story of one soldier, a young man about to embark on the ride of his life, in “The Messenger.”
ELIZABETH HAYDON tells of the destruction of Serendair and the fate of its last defenders in “Threshold,” set at the end of the Third Age of her Symphony of Ages series.
NEIL GAIMAN gives us a glimpse into what befalls the man called Shadow after the events of his Hugo Award–winning novel American Gods in “The Monarch of the Glen.”
TERRY BROOKS adds an exciting epilogue to The Wishsong of Shannara in “Indomitable,” the tale of Jair Ohmsford’s desperate quest to complete the destruction of the evil Ildatch . . . armed only with the magic of illusion.
From the Hardcover edition.
Customer Reviews:
Great collection of short novels........2007-03-09
I got this collection of stories just for George R. R. Martin's 'The Sworn Sword,' but after reading all of the stories I am now interested in a few new authors. This is a solid collection and I recommend it to any fans of the fantasy genre.
Interesting and Pleasing.......2005-02-25
I must admit that I was completely drawn in to The Sworn Sword, the first story by George R. R. Martin. I could not seem to put the book down, I was mesmerized. As I continued to read on and focus on the next few stories, I found myself missing the first, but, that was soon to fade away upon reading Threshold by Elizabeth Haydon. That work was also beautiful and seemingly flawless. This book in general, every story, runs your mind around these authors vivid imaginations and turn your world upside down for the moment! Great read, highly recommended!
Book Description
The three volumes that comprise this compelling saga begin with In the Hall of the Dragon King, and follow the fortunes of Quentin, who as a young temple acolyte, seeks to overthrow the evil loosed by Necromancer Nimrood and to save Mensandor, the realm of the Dragon King. In the second volume, The Warlords of Nin, Quentin once again holds the king’s destiny in his hands as the Wolf Star grows greater and the power of the Nin increases, spreading its black terror. In The Sword and the Flame, the final volume, Quentin reigns as Dragon King and faces an insidious attack of evil—from within himself—when Nimrood holds his son hostage.
Customer Reviews:
The Dragon King Saga:.......2007-03-08
Typical Steven Lawhead epic adventure story, action, narrow escapes, love, and good always triumphs. Great story and very easy reading. I flew through all 1000 pages in just caouple of weeks.
My 12-year-old son's favorite book series!.......2007-01-31
My son will tell you, "This is the best book I've ever read." In this fantasy the characters grow and change for the better. Move over Harry Potter, the Dragon King Saga has got you beat!
King-Priest of the Dragon King.......2006-06-28
here is an exerpt from the Warlords of Zin
Never in Malice, Never in Hate , Never in evil shall this blade be raised. But in righteousness and Justice forever shall it shine
This is seeped in Holy writings of Nippon, the Middle Kingdom, and Europe
All have a traditon of the few Holy-Warriors,
Recomended if thou likest the Lord of the Rings
A good, solid series of Lawhead's early writing........2004-11-16
I don't think I can add much beyond the in-depth review below, except to say that when I read the series some time ago, it captured my imagination enough for me to rate it a solid "I like it" #4 on the scale. I thought some of the spiritual concepts were a bit understated for a Christian Fantasy, but many prefer that. An event that I particularly remember was the search for the precious metal to fashion the sword, and also the sword's creation. The sword and its use in one certain battle still comes to memory. I wouldn't overlook this series if you are a Fantasy fan. It's worth the read.
Save your time, save your money, save your dignity.......2004-01-16
It could be said in this trilogy's defense that this work was intended as mere pulp fantasy, intended to be read by readers looking for the familiar fix of a plot written by the numbers. However, to do so would be an insult to pulp authors everywhere. Lawhead entirely fails to create believeable characters or to develop the characters that he does create. The plot is so predictable that I am convinced the author looked for the most obvious possible developments. However, these faults could be forgiven - or at least ignored - if the exposition was even slightly worthwhile.
Unfortunately, its deficiencies in plot, character, world-building, and originality are complemented by quite possibly the worst writing I have ever seen. His descriptions substitute the reader's fantasy stereotypes for any actual use of adjectives. Perhaps he assumes that his entire audience is third graders. His language is consistently cliched and hackneyed. If you enjoy being hit in the face repeatedly with large bricks, this trilogy may be for you. If you actively hate literature, this trilogy is definitely for you. If you're looking for a simple but entertaining story without too many preconceptions, read the Belgariad.
Average customer rating:
- Mortals should choose to read it
- Simply cannot put this book down
- Great New Fantasy!
- Great new Fantasy Realm!
- Gods & Mortals
|
Choices Meant for Gods
Sandy Lender
Manufacturer: ArcheBooks Publishing
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Epic | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
Magic & Wizards | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
General | Series | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | Subjects | Books
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Magic Bites (Kate Daniels Series, Book 1)
ASIN: 1595071652 |
Book Description
Not even the gods noticed when Chariss was born with the mark of The Protector. Now she and her wizard guardian seek shelter from a mad sorcerer in a household not just full of secrets and false hope, but watched by the god who will unwittingly reveal her role in an impending war. When an orphan sets aside a lifetime of running and fear to accept the responsibilities of guarding an arrogant deity, can she face the trials in the prophecies she uncovers? Will Nigel Taiman of her latest refuge dare to use his dragon heritage to bind her to his estate or to help her in her duty? "Choices Meant for Gods is without a doubt the freshest most engaging high fantasy novel to come out in years and breathes new life into a tired genre. The characters leap off the page and the plot is lightning quick and deftly written with many layers that tease the mind and imagination. Choices Meant for Gods is not a mere novel; it is a gorgeous piece of written art. I can hardly wait for the second book!" Jamieson Wolf, Linear Reflections Author of Hope Falls, Electric Pink, Electric Blue, and Garden City "In Choices Meant for Gods, Sandy Lender takes her readers of fantasy fiction by the hand and leads them through an exciting world filled with sorcerers, gods, goddesses, dragons, and other mythical creatures. Through the use of interesting characters and clever dialogue ("Try not to think, Nicolas. You look so much more handsome when you're bewildered."), she weaves a spell of magic and fantasy. The only problem for the reader may occur at the end of the book when they find themselves wanting more and discover they will have to wait for book two!" Gary R. Hoffman, Author for Short Story Anthologies including Seven By Seven and Never Safe
Customer Reviews:
Mortals should choose to read it.......2007-08-01
I confess: I do not read much. I have an amazing attention deficit that prevents me from finishing even the loftiest of classics. I finished reading this book. This fact may not seem so interesting to most, but is high praise considering the countless unfinished volumes in my office. The characters are endearing, Onweald springs vividly from the pages, and I anxiously await the unfolding of the next scenes in that world's history.
Simply cannot put this book down.......2007-07-13
I have to admit that I haven't finished th book yet, but not for lack of trying! I was explaining to a colleague why I was so tired (staying up until 2 AM, reading "just one more chapter" of "Choices Meant for Gods") and how exhilarating I am finding this book! Sandy Lender has taken great care to develop interesting characters. The book keeps you guessing. The teacher in me likes to try to predict what is coming next -- and I'm almost never right! I can't wait until Ms. Lender writes another book!
Great New Fantasy!.......2007-05-01
It's so refreshing when a novel comes along that grabs you from the outset and won't let go. Such was my experience with "Choices Meant for Gods." The characters are as real as the author can make them without literally leaping from the pages to be with the reader. Instead, the reader is drawn inexorably into Lender's new world, where even gods are "human." I hope that many more readers can have the opportunity to enjoy this marvelous work!
Great new Fantasy Realm!.......2007-04-27
Too many fantasy authors are re-hashing the same old plots, acted out by the same old tired heroes and heroines. Here we have a refreshing new take on things! I love that Chariss is both someone I can identify with and whom I can dream about becoming. . . it's what fantasy is all about!
Gods & Mortals.......2007-04-23
This book has a great deal to offer. It is good fantasy. It is good writing, period. The pace is fast, the characters well-crafted and compelling. The treatment of the gods and their interaction with mortals is original. My big complaint is that I must wait for the sequel(s) to learn the outcome.
Book Description
The Silver Dragon is a myth, so they say. But legends are often born from life. When Brienna Rhoswen sets out to find the man she has given a blood vow to marry, she never anticipates falling in love with the handsome rogue warrior. Brogan Torrick has avoided his betrothed for one reason-fear. Rumored she's a Mystic Healer, his prejudice rules his emotions. To garner an ally against an enemy, his father however, binds him into a marriage contract with the sorceress. Meeting as strangers, Brogan believes he's never seen a more beautiful and deadly messenger. On the journey, they struggle with an attraction they think is forbidden to them until they learn each other's identity. Only their love may not be enough to keep them together and a drop of blood from the Silver Dragon may doom all Kingdoms if their enemy gets hold of the Sword of Rhoswen. WARNING: This book contains hot, explicit sex between two people explained in graphic language.
Download Description
The Silver Dragon is a myth, so they say. But legends are often born from life. When Brienna Rhoswen sets out to find the man she has given a blood vow to marry, she never anticipates falling in love with the handsome rogue warrior. Brogan Torrick has avoided his betrothed for one reason-fear. Rumored she's a Mystic Healer, his prejudice rules his emotions. To garner an ally against an enemy, his father however, binds him into a marriage contract with the sorceress. Meeting as strangers, Brogan believes he's never seen a more beautiful and deadly messenger. On the journey, they struggle with an attraction they think is forbidden to them until they learn each other's identity. Only their love may not be enough to keep them together and a drop of blood from the Silver Dragon may doom all Kingdoms if their enemy gets hold of the Sword of Rhoswen. WARNING: This book contains hot, explicit sex between two people explained in graphic language.
Customer Reviews:
Sword of Rhoswen.......2007-08-27
This book definitely holds your attention. It has just the right amount of eroticism to go with the storyline.
I definitely recommend this book.
Sword of Rhoswen.......2007-03-25
First time reading this type of book. It was an easy read. I will continue to read these types of books.
5 Klovers! Courtesy of CK2S Kwips & Kritiques.......2007-01-29
Although they've never met, Brienna and Brogan have given a blood vow to marry each other in order to ally their two kingdoms against a shared adversary.
Despite the betrothal arranged by their fathers, Brogan is in no hurry to wed Brienna, nor does he even wish to meet her, believing only the most undesirable women would be subject to arranged marriages. Not only that, but Brienna bears the name of his sworn enemy - Rhoswen, and is rumored to be a Mystic Healer in a time when magic is greatly mistrusted.
When Brienna finds herself suddenly crowned Queen upon the untimely death of her father, she realizes the time has come to cement the alliance between the two kingdoms and determines to present herself in person to her wayward fiancé.
Disguising herself as a handmaiden to the Queen for security, Brienna meets none other than Brogan on her journey, whom she believes to be a warrior in the service of her betrothed.
Brogan and Brienna fall in love while believing their love is forbidden, but can they overcome the obstacles of mistrust, prejudice, and a most formidable enemy determined to have Brienna for his own wife?
What can I say? This story had everything: a dastardly villain, a dashing and dangerous hero, a strong and noble heroine, and plenty of action and steam to satisfy anyone. There was just nothing wrong with this story!
Sword of Rhoswen is the second book of Williamson's that I've read, and it is my favorite. The hero and heroine of the story match each other in their self-sacrificing nobility, and their heartbreak in what they believe is a forbidden tryst is tear-jerking.
The author weaves a compelling story with surprising plot twists and secrets that I find her so adept with.
I understand it is Williamson's intent to follow this one up with a sequel in the future, and I will be buying it the day it is released!
perfect blend of history and fantasy .......2007-01-20
Queen Brienna Rhoswen is tired of waiting for her betrothed husband to come to her. It's been a year since she added her blood to the contract binding her to the eldest Torrick heir from the Kingdom of Kylemore. With the recent attacks on her lands, she needs this alliance to protect her Kingdom. Besides, Brienna needs an heir. She can't provide that all by herself.
Brogan Torrick is the heir of the Kingdom of Kylemore. His father bound him to Brienna in an attempt to gain an ally against their enemy. Brogan has heard rumors of Brienna's mystic abilities. He chose to avoid his duties to her because of preconceived notions. Of course, with so many lovely lasses willing to indulge in his carnal desires there's no real hurry to finally meet his bride.
Brienna and her handmaid, Medora snuck away from the castle through the catacombs beneath it. They even dress far beneath their true station in order to try to pass for peasants. When Brienna realizes that they are about to be accosted, she tells Medora to not divulge her true identity, instead they will pose as couriers for the Queen. Of course, that is only if the thieves succeed in their purpose. Brienna climbs on top of the cart and uses the weapons she'd stored there to attempt to subdue the attackers. Eventually she was left with only one weapon left, a mystical sword that her father had given her. It had been beyond normal repair but somehow the healing powers in Brienna's hands were able to mend it to its former glory. The leader of the attackers enjoys the bold fight Brienna presents. Once he believes he has her subdued, he kisses her, only to realize seconds after releasing her that she had more fight left in her. Brienna is one woman who should never be underestimated. When Brogan learns of the women's destination, he believes that Princess Rhoswen is growing tired of waiting for her husband. He has no knowledge that Brienna's father has died or that she is now Queen. Neither of them are aware of the other's true identity. Brogan agrees to escort the lass to Kylemore. It's a journey fraught with hidden dangers, magical discoveries, and very hot passions.
Brenda Williamson creates the perfect blend of history and fantasy with her novel, SWORD OF RHOSWEN. This story is action packed from beginning to end. The main characters both have strong personalities that make it truly a joy to watch the passion ignite between them. Brogan and Brienna's relationship is compounded by the fact that neither of them knows the other's true identity, but that doesn't stop them from falling in love. Even the villain had me enthralled. He's just so vile that I would have loved to been able to kill him myself. Brienna's power of healing is a huge part of my fascination with her. It's so much a part of her and yet it's something that she's been forced to keep hidden because of ignorance and fear. I love Brogan's reaction once he learns of her skill. The SWORD OF RHOSWEN is so easy to become engrossed in that I read through the entire book in one sitting. I can hardly wait to see what happens with the rest of this series. Ms. Williamson is an awesome storyteller in range of genres and I've truly enjoyed every one of her stories that I've had the pleasure of reading. This is definitely a keeper!
Chrissy Dionne (courtesy of Romance Junkies)
I'll look foward to seeing more from Brenda Williamson.......2006-03-19
Queen Brienna of Avalbane is traveling with her maid to Kylemore to finally meet her betrothed; she needs him as an ally to defend her people from her cousin Thane.
Along the way Brienna and her maid are stopped by a group of men on horseback and Brienna bravely fights their leader. Brogan has no intention of hurting the fiery tempered woman he's waylaid, he's impressed with her skill and very attracted to her. Brienna demands to be taken to Kylemore using the rouse that she is a messenger of the queen and Brogan agrees to take her.
As they travel, Brogan's attraction to Brienna continues to grow; Brienna tries in vain to fight her attraction to Brogan as well. Soon, they're stealing moments of passion wherever they can; all the while Thane's men attack them at every turn. Brienna is not only hiding her true identity form Brogan, she is also a magical healer and is afraid he won't accept her abilities. Brogan is hiding a big secret from Brienna as well.
After reaching Kylemore, they discover that their attraction is not forbidden. When Brogan is told that Brienna has left to save him from Thane, he storms after her, unwilling to let the woman he loves come to harm. Will Brogan and Brienna be able to save themselves and the kingdoms from Thane's evil plans?
When Brogan and Brienna first meet the sparks fly both in combat and in lust. Brienna's fiery personality has Brogan craving her. Brogan seems to have a girl in every village and Brienna does not like it. As a result, their relationship throughout the first half of the book is full of jealousy and arguments as well as searing hot passion. Brogan is very handsome, as well as a good man. Brienna is delightful, beautiful and strong. I particularly enjoyed the final chapters of the book where the mysteries are revealed and the action and drama kick into high gear. Throughout the story, Brogan and Brienna's feelings for each other grow, but the end is where they really blossom. After all they go through, the conclusion is very satisfying. Brenda Williamson has written an exciting and erotic story with Sword of Rhoswen and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Nannette
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed
Average customer rating:
- Love It!!
- Finally we have the book in print.
- definitely a must-read!
- So Sad, yet Beautiful
- A book of transcendant beauty...
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Dragon Sword and Wind Child
Noriko Ogiwara
Manufacturer: VIZ Media LLC
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
Japanese | World Literature | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1421515016 |
Book Description
In the land of Toyoashihara, the forces of the God of Light and the Goddess of Darkness have waged war for generations. But for 15-year old Saya, the war is far away and unimportant--until the day she discovers she is the reincarnation of the Water Maiden and a princess of the Children of the Dark. Raised to love the Light and detest the Dark, Saya must come to terms with her heritage even as she is tumbled into the very heart of the conflict that is destroying her country. Both the army of the Light and Dark seek to claim her, for she is the only mortal who can awaken the legendary Dragon Sword, the weapon destined to end the war. Can Saya make the dreadful choice between the Light and Dark, or is she doomed like all the Water Maidens who have come before her?
Customer Reviews:
Love It!!.......2007-10-01
I first read this book when I was a child. I loved it. I checked it out of my schools library so many times they let me just keep it till the end of the school year. The story line and the people themselves are so hard to put down. The mythology in the book made me look into the shinto myths. I would recommend this book to anyone. I am twenty six now and still love this book!!
Finally we have the book in print........2007-07-10
I am so happy that the book was brought back in print by Viz. I have been waiting for this book for a really long time. After I saw it on an English book of literature I wanted to have it. But when I learned that it was out of print and that it was on Amazon for more than $3oo dollars I was devastated, and I hoped that some day it would be back in print. I had to settle for the copies that were on my public library. But I really wanted to have my very own copy as well as the sequels of the book. So I remained patient and waited and finally it was brought back. I cannot wait to get my copy and hopefully I will also see the sequels also translated. But in the mean time I will enjoy this book first.
definitely a must-read!.......2006-06-16
this book is amazing and i loved it! i read it in junior high, too, and i wish it would be back in print. i definitely cannot buy it for $200! this book is amazing with its details and dialogue and interesting adventures that happen! and the innocent mind of chihaya is definitely attractive and also his unknown power over the dragon sword is so alluring. this historical fairytale is the best i've ever read! it keeps you reading and your heart thumping in anxiety over what will occur next.
So Sad, yet Beautiful .......2006-01-26
I agree with the other reviewers, this book NEEDS to be back in print. I read it in junior high and was extremely enchanted! I quickly passed it to my mother and told friends about it; its just so lovely, though occassionally sad.
I really can't say much that hasn't been said, but if anyone who has power reads this- LET'S GET THIS BOOK BACK IN PRINT!! (I can't afford a $200 book on a college students pay...)
A book of transcendant beauty..........2005-08-24
I agree with one of the former reviewers here that it is indeed a tragedy that this book is out of print. It belongs with the other classics of high fantasy and allegory that have been reprinted thousands of times throughout the years.
The subtlety of the descriptions and development in this book is pure magic, the best I have ever seen. Everything moves so fluidly --the plot, the scenes, and the characters develop gradually but smoothly and completely-- that I can only think that if a beautiful water-color painting could have a written form, this would be it. This book must have been very skillfully translated from its original Japanese, because never in the English language have I found such images before. While this book does entertain as well, and ends, against all odds, happily, it transcends many other books because it does not simply touch the mind or emotions. There is something spiritual about it, something that touches that part of each of us that is truly alive and connected to the life all around us. Not only does it touch it, but it opens our eyes to that connection. That alone makes this book worth reading. I wish there were more books like it.
Average customer rating:
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Dragon Sword (Dragonlance: The New Adventures, Vol. 5)
Ree Soesbee
Manufacturer: Wizards of the Coast
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback
Science Fiction, Fantasy, & Magic | Science Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery & Horror | Literature | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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General | Fantasy | Science Fiction & Fantasy | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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Similar Items:
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Dragon Day (Dragonlance: The New Adventures, Vol. 6)
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Return of the Sorceress (Dragonlance: The New Adventures, Vol. 4)
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Dragon Spell (Dragonlance: The New Adventures, Vol. 8)
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Dragon Knight (Dragonlance: The New Adventures, Vol. 7)
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The Dragon Well (Dragonlance: The New Adventures, Vol. 3)
ASIN: 0786935782
Release Date: 2004-12-28 |
Book Description
The fifth title in an all-new Dragonlance series for young readers.
Dragon Sword continues a new series of Dragonlance adventures written specifically for readers ages 10 and up. Sized to fit the young reader market, the series features a new group of young companions who band together for friendship and excitement during the golden age of the Dragonlance world.
Customer Reviews:
Character Changes.......2005-03-04
I noticed, while reading this book, that the author, Ree Soesbee, changed the character Elidor's eye color, 4 times! They are supposed to be violet, but then she said they were grey, then blue, then grey, then blue again!
SPoiler: Do not read if you are going to read this book
Even more upsetting ELIDOR DIED!!!!!!!!!
Customer Reviews:
Great.......2005-11-27
I love this book. This is my favorite Bazil and Relkin book. What I really love about this book is the scale. The entire book is on a grand scale, everything is huge from the battles to the city of Ourhd. I wish they would print the series again.
The second book was good........2000-01-04
I read this book with vigor, that's usually something i dont do. After i read the first book Bazil Broketail, i couldnt put this one down. The story didnt skip anything. when i started reading it it felt like i wasnt reading a new book. Plus i was also surprised by some characters that were there and, was glad to hear of new ones. although i thought the first book was better. this one is right up there. I did finish this book a while ago i just never got around to writing this review. look for my other review. Dragons of War, and Bazil Broketail
It was an amazing and breath taking novel........1999-10-11
i was captivated by the plot and character descriptions. it was magnificente novel. i loved the continuation of the purple green in the bazil story.
Bazil and Relkin travel to ancient Ourhd to fight a demon........1999-04-04
Bazil and Relkin are back at it again only this time they must travel to the far off Empire of Ourhd. A demon god has been reborn and is terrorizing the empire. With a high witch and a trusty assitant at her side they can help the legonaries deafet the demon god.
An excellent book.......1998-10-20
Great reading. I thought this would have been a better first book for the series. The interesting relationships between the characters, and the backdrop of the world in which they evolve are already set. I could not put it down as I caught the main characters and events already in motion. I was fascinated right away.
Books:
- Tooth and Claw (Death Dealer)
- True to the Game: A Teri Woods Fable
- Turkey--Bright Sun, Strong Tea: On the Road with a Travel Writer
- Valley of Silence (The Circle Trilogy, Book 3)
- Waking Up: Climbing Through the Darkness
- Walking from East to West: God in the Shadows
- Way of the Turtle: The Secret Methods that Turned Ordinary People into Legendary Traders
- We All Fall Down: Goldratt's Theory of Constraints for Healthcare Systems
- Winding Machines: Mechanics and Measurement
- Wings of Fire (An Ian Rutledge Mystery)
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