Author: Rebecca Barnhouse
Release Date: March 12th, 2012
Genre: YA Fantasy
This is historical fantasy at its best. Sixteen-year-old Hild has always been a favorite of her uncle, king of the Shylfings. So when she protects her cousin the crown prince from a murderous traitor, she expects the king to be grateful. Instead, she is unjustly accused of treachery herself.
As punishment, her uncle sends Hild far away to the heir of the enemy king, Beowulf, to try to weave peace between the two kingdoms. She must leave her home and everyone she loves. On the long and perilous journey, Hild soon discovers that fatigue and rough terrain are the least of her worries. Something is following her and her small band of guards—some kind of foul creature that tales say lurks in the fens. Will Hild have to face the monster? Or does it offer her the perfect chance to escape the destiny she never chose?
Rebecca Barnhouse's companion to The Coming of the Dragon is sure to appeal to younger fans of Tamora Pierce, Esther Friesner, and Shannon Hale.-- Goodreads
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House for the wonderful opportunity to read Peaceweaver. This does not affect or influence my opinion in any way and my reviews are always completely honest.
I may have been one of rare ones in my Lit classes that always enjoyed it when it came time to studying Beowulf. It's one classic piece I've always had a love for. Peaceweaver reminded me of that love through its classically written story and beautiful elements. I absolutely every minute of reading. It was full of high fantasy, adventure, well-crafted characters and amazingly descriptions. I was on the edge of my seat, riveted with emotions as I scrolled through the pages.
Peaceweaver is said to be a companion novel to Ms. Barnhouse's "The Coming of the Dragon" but I had no troubles reading it as a stand-alone (as I hadn't read the other unfortunately). However, now knowing just how creative and masterful this set is, I will have to go out and get the other book most definitely.
Normally, I'm honestly not one to read a lot of high fantasy such as this style but I have my moments where I may pick them up on occasion. Anything revolving around mythology would be an interest-- and Beowulf world-style literature such as this certainly would, too. I am so ecstatic that I requested this title! I will be recommending this to many!
An imaginative, breathtaking, and compelling read.
4.5 stars!
