Kyra Halland

*Minor Spoilers*

The Lost Book of Anggird is a very compelling, high fantasy book with elements of romance. I usually like fantasy, though am not normally fond of romance. However, I found myself drawn to the romance of Perrare and Roric. I liked that the romantic interest started out as intellectual camaraderie; it made the couple more on par, and their relationship grows and develops very well throughout the story, in a fairly satisfying way. I was not quite satisfied by Perrare's sometimes timid dismissal of her own intellect, strength and power, nor her tendency to nod to her husband's "better" knowledge of this and that, when she was often left in the dark about what he was going to do. Since his decisions were not always as wise as hers, I did not quite see why she insisted on timidity.

But the fantastical time period in which they live called for the women to act in certain ways, and she certainly stood out, as compared to other females in the book. It was, perhaps, a more complex dynamic than feeble woman and strong man, though it could be read that way, in some instances. However, the author does a good job revealing the nature of Perrare as anything other than feeble, even though her world, and even her lover, often try to treat her that way. I am a feminist who believes that the choice to be a nurturer, if it is indeed a choice for the woman, is a wonderfully fulfilling choice for certain women, and not all strong female characters forgo that role. It was an interesting choice, and a unique one, compared to a lot of modern heroines. Both characters are dynamic and interesting,and kept me invested in their lives, which makes Halland successful in her romance.

As for the story and plot line, it was intriguing, unique and well paced. Danger, love, anxiety, mystery and journeys were equally paced and well thought out. There were some moments when I thought that the story held moments that seemed unlikely, but it is a fantasy, so I was able to suspend disbelief. And honestly, I was so intrigued by the story that the moments in which certain elements of the magic did not align with my expectations were minor compared to the overall mystery and suspense of the book. I really could not keep from reading chapter after chapter. I cared about the characters, their quest, their life and wanted to know what would happen to them.

There were some minor editorial flaws, some plot points I wanted clarified, etc. but the book is very well written, and the minor flaws do not mask the quality of Halland's story. It is clear to me that Halland has wonderful talent, that she put a lot of thought, care, and time into this story both writing and editing. I loved the professor-teacher dynamic and the intellect and sensitivity of the male lead character, as well as the female lead character.

I liked this book a great deal, and would recommend it as a fast paced, though not short, adult fantasy read.… (altro)