Book Review-Hawksong

Hawksong

By Amelia Atwater Rhode

Reviewed by L.S.

The book is about how two young leaders of two totally different people have to come together under the banner of peace to stop the killing that has raged for centuries. The subplot closely intertwines and is how the two leaders Zack and Danica have to learn to get along with each other if they ever hope for their two newly joined countries to get along. For if their rulers can't get along how can the people?
The book revolves around fantasy, hope, and self submission. It deals with doing what is best for everyone even when you may be ridiculed for it. The title of the book is the name of a lullaby Danica's country sings; it is about peace and no understanding of war. The title also is a way of showing how the main characters struggle to make that song a reality.
The character whose view the story is from has impenetrable will and hope for her country. She agrees to rule with Zack even when her mother thinks that goes beyond the requirement to do what is best for the people of her country.
I think this book is extremely well written and is unlike anything else I have read; it would be a great book for discussions.

Book Review-Glasswright's Master

Glasswright's Master
By Mindy L. Klasky
Reviewed by L.S.

The moment I remember the most is at the end when Rani Trader becomes Ranita Glasswright, again. She than officially starts the rebuilt glasswright's guild in Morenia. The main plotline in this book is that the king and a few of his loyal retainers, figuring out how to reclaim their capital while keeping out of the scheming Fellowship of Jair's hands. It is also about the characters learning about themselves.
In this book the consequences for all of Rani's, Ranitas decisions come about. As Rani sees disappointment death and betrayal whirl around she has to fight an inner battle as she tries to figure out how to fix herself and her life. For if she doesn't get her feelings sorted out who knows what else will be on her mind.
The book is mostly building up to a Happily Ever After. Which is reasonable considering this is the last of five books. The overall theme is finding out what is most important in life, which is a theme each reader must decide if it is good or bad. The title Glasswright's Master refers to the end of the story when the king, King Halivallari, reinstates the Glasswright's guild in Morenia and puts Ranita at the head of it making her a Master and a Guild mistress. Though that’s not all...
This story ends well and with the rest of the series it is good for a long flight but it is up to you to decide if you like or not.