Saturday, March 22, 2014

Review: Darkness of Light by Tammy Farrell

Title: The Darkness of Light

Author: Tammy Farrell

Series: The Dia Chronicles

Genre: NA Fantasy

Publisher: Self Published

Release Date: Jan 28 2014

Edition/Formats Available In: eBook & Paperback

Goodreads: Add to TBR List

Purchase Links: Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Amazon Paperback

Blurb/Synopsis: The world has long forgotten them, but their descendants live on, not wholly mortal or god, but something in between…

At the dawn of the sixth century, in the aftermath of her mother’s brutal execution, Mara Black is forced to flee the only life she has ever known.

Mara can tell she’s different, but isn't sure why. After she encounters two mysterious strangers, she discovers her secret is but a drop in an ocean of many. She is a Dia, a descendant of ancient gods, and her mother sacrificed herself to protect Mara from their past.

Summoned by an uncle she didn't know existed, Mara thinks she’s found the family she’s always wanted, and Corbin, a love she never thought possible. But not everything is as it seems. Her uncle has other motives for protecting her, and her mentor, Malcolm, becomes so jealous, he’ll do anything to get what he wants.

When tragedy strikes, and the true darkness among them comes to light, Mara discovers that sometimes love can give you everything, and obsession can take it all away. With her powers gone, and destiny calling, she has to look deep within to find the courage to save herself. Mara, along with Corbin and her newfound family, must fight to get back what was taken, or die trying.

Praise for The Darkness of Light

“Ms. Farrell's voice is a bit 'gritty,' which makes the more tried-and-true fantasy elements feel new. I highly recommend this book for anyone liking mystical fantasies, high, quest-type fantasies, and fictional historical settings that feel right.” - Ciar Cullen, author of Lillian Holmes and the Leaping Man

“The Darkness of Light is beautifully written and I was pulled right into the world Farrell creates. Reminiscent of Robin Hood mixed with the magic of Merlin, I devoured the story! Farrell weaves smart storylines with vivid imagery in a tale of revenge and romance.” – Summer Wier, Canada

“I found Tammy Farrell's The Darkness of Light to incorporate aspects of fantasy which I most enjoy. A sense of realism was maintained throughout the story by the rich development of its complex and multifarious characters rather than and unlike the all too common modern day fantasy epics which rely on the overindulgent and excessive use of magic. The balanced narrative approach used easily permits the reader's immersion into the reality that is Brittania. With great anticipation I look forward to the continuation of the series and once more delving into the fascinating, ever-growing world and opulent cast of characters which Mrs. Farrell has created. Highly recommended!” – Jesse Thompson, Toronto ON

“Author Tammy Farrell shows off her writing talent in her debut novel,

"The Darkness of Light". The genre, development of characters and plot were amazing and left me wanting more. Her ability to incorporate mysticism, magic, history, romance, mystery, humor, and compassion into a compelling story is remarkable.” – Marie Smith, Greenville SC

FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the author, editor, publisher, or Promo Host. This is my honest opinion about this book and I did not receive any monetary compensation for writing this review nor was I obligated to write a positive one.

The mention of Corbin’s name made Malcolm blind with rage, and without thinking he shot a sphere of light at her. It wasn’t strong enough to harm her, but when she hit the wall her face twisted in horror. Mara lifted her hand and retaliated with all of her strength, but it had no effect on him. Malcolm was far too strong now.

He closed the gap between them and pushed her up against the wall with a hand to her throat.

“Malcolm,” she said with desperation seeping into her voice. “You can be better than this.”

Malcolm shook his head. “No, I can’t. I’ve tried.” The power inside him made him feel controlled and mad all at the same time and the rising panic in her eyes only provoked him further. He knocked her hands away from him and cupped the sides of her face, and then he focused, consuming Mara's rising Light. He watched her terrified expression until the light in her eyes faded to a dark green, and he let her fall in a heap to the ground.

My Rant: The Darkness of light was awesome. The book was easy to read because the authors writing style was fluid. From the beginning I was hooked. There was never a dull moment in the book. The intriguing part about this story was that you had to watch Mara go through several trials that changed her perception and made her grow up to be such a force to be reckoned with. The supporting characters in this book were on point. The plot changed frequently as the story progressed because there were many things that needed to change in order for Mara to grow into the person she needed to be.

Magic always seems to grip me., but the betrayal and revenge is what gets your heart pumping through this story. The Darkness of Light was not just an ordinary story it was such a amazing story that revolved around Magic and the heroine Mara fighting back for the greater good but also finding herself and being able to help save herself and other from the same fate her loved one had to face due to the stupidity of the villains of this book. This is a classic story told about what people do when they fear the unknown but how they manipulate people with the fear to the point where they perform unspeakable acts. As a reader I can see why Mara could not just stand by and allow this to happen.

My Recommendation: The dynamics of this book was intriguing. It was easy to connect with the characters and the authors writing style will captivate you. The plot is filled with action but the courage that Mara displays is heroic.

I rated this book 4 out of 5 purple rant hearts and would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good that has betrayal revenge and magic.

Tammy Farrell grew up in Orangeville, Ontario Canada where she discovered her love of writing, and all things related to Edgar Allan Poe. She now lives with her husband and four fur babies in Greenville, South Carolina, where she teaches pre-GED English and attempts to learn French when she isn’t busy writing.