Martin Dukes

Hearts of Ice and Stone is the first book in this series, and I enjoyed the theological and philosophical themes that were highlighted in this story. The writing style was different, but I think it suited the type of story being told as it was set in an alternate 18th century Britain known as Britannia, with enough similarities to our historical world that I was constantly comparing characters to historical figures if I thought they were based off them. I don't know if I would necessarily call this book a Gothic fantasy, but more of an alternate history fantasy.

The setting is one of the things I highly enjoyed about this book. Having a history background, I have always liked alternate histories, especially ones that delve into the horror element of the 'What if?'. In this book we have a society built around the dead, but one where dead bodies can reanimate, and no one knows why this happens. Naturally, an entire religious sect has developed around this circumstance, and only certain people are allowed within the hallowed sanctums where the dead lie, so it is inevitable that corruption and legends and traditions would build around such a thing. This developed into a complicated society where even kings are just stewards in this land as previous kings and queens could rise up again and reclaim their thrones. The possibilities for intrigue and treason abound, and although the author touched upon these topics, they were not really developed and I did find this a bit frustrating. There were discussions about the amount of money spent on these dead halls while people were starving in the streets, rebellions forming, discontent happening, and while the main characters were part of some of this, I don't feel the discussions went deep enough or went hard enough to really show the main issues or how horrible were the lives of the people.

This leads to the theological and philosophical themes that were present in this book. The main character developed these powers to literally raise the dead, an event that shook the very foundations upon which the world was built. Naturally, the powers that be were terrified of what Laura would eventually be capable of, therefore everyone wanted her blood. But what I especially enjoyed was Laura's power and the consequences of that power. I thought that was exceedingly well done as so many fantasy novels just give their main characters these great powers, but rarely have them suffer from its use.

I did enjoy the plot, but I wasn't crazy about the ending. I don't necessarily need a happy ending, per se, but the one in this book just didn't seem to match the rest of the book which was a disappointment. And while I liked the characters, I did think some of the character development was lacking especially in terms of motivations. I would have liked to see both the Bishop and Edward, for example, struggle quite a bit more with their decisions, and not have them used as convenience decisions just to move along the plot. I also thought the revenants could have used a bit more explanation. However, Laura was a great character and I loved her fighting spirit.

Verdict
Hearts of Ice and Stone had a unique alternate setting and I loved the author's writing style. While I may have wished for more development on the themes in this story as the theological and philosophical ideas were quite intriguing, the plot was still quite interesting and moved rather quickly. I am looking forward to reading the sequel to this book, Well of Souls, and perhaps delving more into those themes in which I am intrigued. I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for an interesting alternate fantasy to 18th century Britain.… (altro)

I would give this book more star ratings but it only gives you 5 so what I'am saying is I really liked this book the thing Alex can do the disassociation think where he goes some were else I know a bit about that as I can do that myself at the drop of a hat and my kids tell me off for it & another thing is that my kids like the book to and want me to read the book for them at bed time and there is not a lot of books that I can say they would want me to read so that in its self is a very good thing. So when are the other books coming out and where can I get them with lots of luck in your writing keep the good books coming.… (altro)

Thoroughly enjoyable adventure into a strange place... A daydreaming teen gets far more than he bargained for when he steps outside normal time. The world he discovers is based on a dandy premise that is both intriguing and fun. The characters are believable, relationships plausible, and personal developments understandable. Some nice twists and turns force the central character (Alex) to repeatedly revise his thinking, and the ending sequence is both thrilling and satisfying. Good solid writing; the few grammatical errors won't trouble (or perhaps even be noticed by?) most readers. The author is British, so some Americans may trip over a word here and there, but that shouldn't cause confusion--I found the voice and tone refreshing. The "cure" for Paolo's swearing is hilarious! Well-crafted, well-paced, and imaginative, adults and teens alike (as well as pre-teens) will enjoy this romp.… (altro)

This is the second part of a trilogy (Caught In A Moment is the first--highly recommended), though it stands up well on its own. Renegade angels want Alex's skull, so he and his friends hide out in a strange world where a sultan finds them the answer to his puzzling dream. Things do not go smoothly. Lunacy, jealousy, murder, chasing, imprisonment, escape, more chasing, loss, regret...and a discovery that a small white worm is not as innocuous as it at first appeared all besiege the friends. And then, of course, the nasty angels reappear... Some good character development raises issues that most of us face at one time or another. The characters are realistic, with strengths and flaws. Kelly's discovery of the pain experienced over things left unsaid is especially touching.

Another rollicking adventure with some inventive and intriguing concepts that will stick with the reader long after the last page is read. I for one am looking forward to the release of part three (and already I can't help hoping the author won't be satisfied with just three tales about Alex). Kudos to the author for a story well told.

I received the book for free through Smashwords. Thanks!… (altro)