This is the first book in the Fate series. There are three books in this series, but they deal with different generations of characters. I really enjoyed this fantasy novel. It features strong female characters, is beautifully written, and was very well done.

I enjoyed that this story wasn't a straight “good vs bad” theme, but had a lot of characters that were just struggling to do what they thought was right in their current situation.

There is some neat magic in here and I enjoyed the world as well. This was a pretty quick read and it looks like the sequel follows the next generation of characters. Things do tie up nicely here and I enjoyed it a lot.

Overall this was an incredibly well done fantasy story with an old school feel to it. The story ties up nicely and I would recommend to those who enjoy beautifully written fantasy with strong female characters. ( )

Acila has run Eagle's Rest for her twin brother Briam since their father left on another land grabbing expedition. When Lord Ranulf comes bearing bloody proof of their father's death to take their land and home Acila is determined to save her brother and get them both far away from the usurper. However, Lord Ranulf isn't just interested in a kingdom anymore because he now knows Acila's secret which gives him a particular incentive to marry her.

This story is a very readable fantasy that moves along nicely. This story is told completely from Acila's point of view and I thought her shape shifting abilities were well described. It was interesting to see how she adapted, and in some cases handed herself over, to whatever shape she currently occupied. Although I felt Acila was quite judgmental of the people around her and she was a bit stuck on her own superiority, I never really hated her and was happy to share her story. I was a little disappointed that there wasn't more "romance" in the story as I usually like things a bit more frilly and swooney. I really did enjoy the "twin bond" as it was represented here. The idea of twins sharing supernatural powers is something I've been fascinated by since I was a kid watching the "Wonder Twins" on the television cartoon "Super Friends".

Overall I found this to be an engaging story. There weren't any surprises but it was all still very pleasant. ( )

I found this one through one of my many rummages through used book stores. It was a surprising jewel of a find. The heroine is strong willed and goes for what she wants. Her adventure was engaging and the bickering between her and the other characters was enjoyable. I especially love the inclusion of a love story and all of the excitement that occurred because of that. All in all, this is one that I love to reread anytime. ( )