(Links after the review!)
I will be honest when I say, there aren’t too many books I’ve read that center around a fantasy genre. I don’t know if that’s even the right word even. But none the less, I found it pretty fascinating. As most know, if when I read something and learn from it, then all is not lost. I can appreciate the efforts it takes by the author to make an exceptional book but also the research that goes into it. I love learning, and I learned quite a bit with this one.
I know very little about Pagan rituals and/or holidays. I was rather confused at first, but it picked up and I got the gist of it after a few pages. J. did a pretty good job of explaining the Gods and their duties for the ritualistic celebrations. I loved how J. described Dominus and brought him to life so to speak. What I originally thought was that he would look like a Fae or even a Minotaur. He was actually opposite of that. For some reason I figured he would be one of those “brooding” type Gods in other stories. Where the mythical being is not happy with anything or anyone. Again, the opposite.
Dominus is given the task of preparing the chosen Yule Mother as she will be giving the gift of light for that year. What he doesn’t expect is his complete fascination with Lorayana and his attraction for her. He visits her regularly in the weeks before the Yule celebration. The Pagan Sabbat for Yule takes place on the longest night of the year. Lorayana will be assisted by Dominus to bring in the light. If he is not successful in aiding her, it could literally burn her up inside.
For whatever reason, she is aware of him in a way others have not been. She senses him when he visits her in her dream like state. He does gain her permission in the state to help her. That part is pretty interesting and so not what I was thinking it would be. I found it to be really interesting too about how the emotions and/or feelings during the “birth” will affect both realms. Dominus goes against the rules and shows himself to her. There connection is unusual and instant. Through trial and error they are able to bring out the light together.
What neither one of them expected, was to have a deep feeling of loss when it’s his turn to walk away. Even though it was unusual, she’s very aware of what had happened. She doesn’t understand how it is that she has this huge love for a being that does not exist in her world. Dominus also is dealing with the conflict-ions of the heart.
When it comes down to doing what is right and what he wants, Dominus is ready to fight for what he believes in. It’s not an easy decision and he struggles with his father over it. In the end, Dominus has to choose what is right for him, and how he should be able to finish out his years in either realm. The way that J. spun the ending I thought was clever and interesting. Although I did kind of see it coming, it was good. This book does have a HEA (Happily Ever After). But it’s obvious too that there will be more with in the series further down the road.
Positives:
I learned something more about the rituals and holidays. I find different religions, beliefs and rituals fascinating. I can appreciate the artistry it indeed takes to put it together in a cohesive mix.
Negatives:
I would have liked there to be a little more information in regards to Domnius’ siblings. I think it would have added a bit more depth to his story. Also it would tie in the sequels to come better.
As much as I love learning new things, it would have been nice to have a tiny bit more information about the Sabbats in the beginning. Or even just a short glossary of terms. It can take your attention away from their story if you have to research the information. However, I did find some information online. Search for the 8 Sabbats.
I would recommend this book to anyone that loves mythology, fantasy and erotica. It’s a quick read but you find yourself looking for the next one.
I was provided with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Authors Amazon Page: J. Rose Allister
Authors GoodReads Page: J. Rose Allister
Authors website: J. Rose Allister
My GoodReads Review HERE
My Amazon Review HERE
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