First, to Dream of Love

HarperCollinswrote
Firstly, allow me to say that I was astounded by both the maturity of your voice and the deftly woven narrative you have created. For so young a writer these are quite unique and a clear sign of your commitment to the characters you have created and the mythical world in which their narratives unfold. You clearly have a marvellous imagination.

FIRST, TO DREAM OF LOVE sits nicely within a ROMEO AND JULIET tradition of literary romance. Born not only to conflicting families, but on the opposite sides of a raging conflict of good versus evil, the love between Eliza and Michael has the potential to heal a troubled realm, or destroy them. Their relationship would, I'm sure, hold great appeal to readers dissatisfied in the wake of Twilight. However, there is another dimension to these characters, created by the involvement of guardian angels in orchestrating their match, which is interesting for the reader to observe. (These guardian angels are, in fact, my favourite thing in the story. I think the idea of a guardian angel's heartbeat making the sound of a harpist playing is truly poetic. I do feel, however, that proper names, rather than "my guardian angel", would be more effective)

My only problem with Eliza and Michael's romance is actually the characters themselves. They are not quite convincing enough to be endearing. This is largely because of the way they speak to each other (repeatedly calling each other "my love") and, indeed, the way they speak in general. Frequently, the syntax used is jarring for a reader. For example, one character says "you did this not", rather than the more natural "you did not do this". Even taking into account the Arthurian tradition from which you clearly draw—as so many of your fans have noted—this seems slightly ‘forced'. Language is one of the principal weaknesses of this manuscript. The issues that are addressed—nature versus nurture, family, the roles of women—though large, are also universal and will resonate with a very broad readership. However, they are presented in a language that is quite archaic, which makes it difficult for the reader to relate. Assuming you want your writing to reach a mass market, I think this is something that would need to be addressed.

This is not to say you do not write well. On the contrary, your command of language is highly sophisticated. There are sparks of real brilliance in this narrative - the description of the aligned sun and moon in Chapter 51 is a particular favourite of mine. The opening two sentences of the prologue are equally excellent, and really hook in the reader. There is, however, a tendency for sections to seem overwritten. For instance, occasions where rhyme is used multiple times within single paragraphs, even single sentences, of prose can come across as affected. The opening sentences of chapter 2 are a prime example of this: "I breathed death that night. I was still too young to fight; I could see them take flight". The rhyme is slightly over-the-top.

For the most part, however, it is just a matter of economy: "I breathed death that night" is an excellent opener, very evocative; it would stand alone and does not need to be reinforced with rhyme. In general, I feel that toning down the elaborate nature of the descriptions and speeches in the novel would make it much more effective and accessible. Moreover, close pruning, as with all manuscripts, would be valuable. You construct some lovely imagery; however, sometimes the same images are over used throughout the novel. One example is the description of gently brushing away dried tears, which features twice in the third chapter, and on other occasions later on. The original description is sensitive and well expressed, but with its repetition the image grows stale. Perhaps this was meant as a motif, but the effect is slightly heavy-handed.

To return to the issue of characters, being as they are so vital in epic narratives: relating novels through first-person narratives is almost always problematic. In FIRST, TO DREAM OF LOVE, where you plot so many different stories, it is particularly so. Using a third-person narrative would help create more coherence between these different threads of the story. It might also help with the rapid introduction of so many characters early in the novel, which at the moment is slightly confusing. Saying this, I really like the first-person perspective of Eliza's guardian angel; threading this throughout a third-person narrative might be an effective way of using a first-person voice, which you do well, and at the same time emphasising the supremacy and sanctified nature of the angel.

Clearly, this is an extremely well thought out manuscript that is very popular amongst your peers. It is not perfect, but the world you have created is vivid and interesting, and I hope you continue to build upon it. As your writing develops, I can see this coming together well. You are certainly one to watch.

http://inkpop.com/projects/3414/first-to-dream-of-love/

Hi Cara. First, to Dream of Love: this is quite astonishing -- astonishingly good, that is! To be honest (and to my eternal shame!) I actually expected this to be far less accomplished -- given your age. So, a big slap in the face and a wake-up call to me not to...er....judge a book (or indeed its author!) by its cover! You write with a poet's rhythm, employing rich descriptions and a evoking a strong sense of atmosphere. Nice appropriation of the R&J Prologue to open the action and very clever recurring usage of the R&J themes and motifs throughout (e.g. the poison Michael takes in Ch 11 and the reference to "loving my enemy" in Ch 13). The dual perspective of alternating narrators works very well and the fantasy landscape they inhabit is beautifully designed. If this book cannot persuade young girls (and others) to dip their toes into the Fantasy genre, then nothing can! And yet the writing (and use of language) is far, far more sophisticated than the typical YA audience would probably comprehend - lending it depth for adult readers (such as yours truly!)! OK, I think I've blown enough smoke in your direction(!)...and from your Profile notes I think you know this all already! Overall: a sophisticated fantasy epic that shows an extraordinary command of language. Shelved, of course -- and I take my metaphorical hat off to you, young lady...you will go far...then, again, you know that already don't you?! ATB Simon (Little Bastard)

Tonight I read, 'When death comes like a dream.' I just wanted to read something wonderful, that I adored. that I didn't have to think too hard about writing constructive comments for. Tonight, I just wanted to read for pleasure, so of course, I came to you. I wondered if I had chosen the right chapter to lift my mood, but despite the darkness of the story - the black tears, the crow eating the berry - it still held the magic and majesty that I fell in love with on my first read of the site. X

Cara, how original is this?? I'm not much of a fantasy reader, but there are quite a few flying around this site. Though i have to tell you, this is easily the best i've read so far. I can't tell whether you're a poet or a novelist, or some unique splice, but it works all the same. I think this should have a great shot at publication, and i will back this with pleasure.

TS

You've got something special here, Cara. This is no mere fiction. In fact, to tag it "fantasy" is a bit of an injustice. It's an allegory about the love of God, told in the form of an exploration of the heart. Love and faith are one, and the depth of both is astonishing and heartbreaking. That you make it work in such human terms is a tribute to your gift as a poet. I've read everything you've uploaded. I long to read more. Shelved.

Hi Cara!

Since you haven’t been to Authonomy for a while, I hope it’s okay that I’m sending this through your book comment:

I’d like to thank you for backing BRAINRUSH (a Thriller) last year. Because of you it hit the Authonomy Number-1 slot, attracted an agent, and landed a film option. Now that’s a brain-rush! The formal book launch is September 1st and the sequel will be released in December. None of this would have been possible without your help. So, thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!

Sincerely,
Richard Bard, BRAINRUSH

PS. If you want a good laugh, check out the temporary book-trailer video on the BRAINRUSH website. It’s there as a placeholder for the upcoming professional video. The current one features children and it’s guaranteed to make you smile! And yes, the younger kid on the screen is really me. You can see the video at www.RichardBard.com. The link is also on my Authonomy profile page. While you’re there, check out the “Feel the Rush” promotion that will get you BRAINRUSH plus 2 FREE thrillers from the Kindle Top-20 PAID Bestseller list – yes, really!

Backed and starred - I left you a message. Liz

You are totally fantastic, Cara! :) How can I ever thank you enough for backing my memoirs book? :)
God bless you. :) Love, Susie :)

You've given us a breathless story with edgy characters and vivid settings. Smooth dialogue. Magical use of language. Razor sharp writing. Backed.

Dear Cara,
I vote for the poetry. Lovely, fluid, and dramatic.

BACKED
Elizabeth Wolfe (MEMORIES OF GLORY)

This was a deep and soul searching, skilfully written. Not a genre a would normally read but interesting nerveless.
Sue Mackender (Wilma1)
Knowing Liam Riley – I hope you enjoy it

Dear Cara, I love your phrase, "the man God wills for you to fall in love with" - falling in love has happened to me many times, but I guess it wasn't God's will because it always ended tragically. I like your princess story - I love happy endings. :) Before I began to read your book, I was prepared by your pitch, which was very well done. :) Your story is good because you create interest by having short paragraphs & lots of dialogue, which makes me want to keep reading to find out what's going to happen next. I'm "backing" your book: When you back a book, it only improves the ranking of that book, not yours. However, the author whose book you are backing may decide to back your book also, in which case yes, your ranking would be improved...authonomy. :) Please "back" my TWO memoir books, "He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not" & my completed memoir unedited version? "Tell Me True Love Stories," which tells at the end, my illness now & 6th abusive marriage." Thanks, Susie :)
p.s. Remember: Every time you place a book on your bookshelf, your recommendation pushes the book up the rankings. And while that book sits on your bookshelf, your reputation as a talent spotter increases depending on how well that book performs. :)

heavy stuff but good and evoking magic and spirits and god. fantastc descriptions and opening
backed

HarperCollinswrote
Firstly, allow me to say that I was astounded by both the maturity of your voice and the deftly woven narrative you have created. For so young a writer these are quite unique and a clear sign of your commitment to the characters you have created and the mythical world in which their narratives unfold. You clearly have a marvellous imagination.

FIRST, TO DREAM OF LOVE sits nicely within a ROMEO AND JULIET tradition of literary romance. Born not only to conflicting families, but on the opposite sides of a raging conflict of good versus evil, the love between Eliza and Michael has the potential to heal a troubled realm, or destroy them. Their relationship would, I'm sure, hold great appeal to readers dissatisfied in the wake of Twilight. However, there is another dimension to these characters, created by the involvement of guardian angels in orchestrating their match, which is interesting for the reader to observe. (These guardian angels are, in fact, my favourite thing in the story. I think the idea of a guardian angel's heartbeat making the sound of a harpist playing is truly poetic. I do feel, however, that proper names, rather than "my guardian angel", would be more effective)

My only problem with Eliza and Michael's romance is actually the characters themselves. They are not quite convincing enough to be endearing. This is largely because of the way they speak to each other (repeatedly calling each other "my love") and, indeed, the way they speak in general. Frequently, the syntax used is jarring for a reader. For example, one character says "you did this not", rather than the more natural "you did not do this". Even taking into account the Arthurian tradition from which you clearly draw—as so many of your fans have noted—this seems slightly ‘forced'. Language is one of the principal weaknesses of this manuscript. The issues that are addressed—nature versus nurture, family, the roles of women—though large, are also universal and will resonate with a very broad readership. However, they are presented in a language that is quite archaic, which makes it difficult for the reader to relate. Assuming you want your writing to reach a mass market, I think this is something that would need to be addressed.

This is not to say you do not write well. On the contrary, your command of language is highly sophisticated. There are sparks of real brilliance in this narrative - the description of the aligned sun and moon in Chapter 51 is a particular favourite of mine. The opening two sentences of the prologue are equally excellent, and really hook in the reader. There is, however, a tendency for sections to seem overwritten. For instance, occasions where rhyme is used multiple times within single paragraphs, even single sentences, of prose can come across as affected. The opening sentences of chapter 2 are a prime example of this: "I breathed death that night. I was still too young to fight; I could see them take flight". The rhyme is slightly over-the-top.

For the most part, however, it is just a matter of economy: "I breathed death that night" is an excellent opener, very evocative; it would stand alone and does not need to be reinforced with rhyme. In general, I feel that toning down the elaborate nature of the descriptions and speeches in the novel would make it much more effective and accessible. Moreover, close pruning, as with all manuscripts, would be valuable. You construct some lovely imagery; however, sometimes the same images are over used throughout the novel. One example is the description of gently brushing away dried tears, which features twice in the third chapter, and on other occasions later on. The original description is sensitive and well expressed, but with its repetition the image grows stale. Perhaps this was meant as a motif, but the effect is slightly heavy-handed.

To return to the issue of characters, being as they are so vital in epic narratives: relating novels through first-person narratives is almost always problematic. In FIRST, TO DREAM OF LOVE, where you plot so many different stories, it is particularly so. Using a third-person narrative would help create more coherence between these different threads of the story. It might also help with the rapid introduction of so many characters early in the novel, which at the moment is slightly confusing. Saying this, I really like the first-person perspective of Eliza's guardian angel; threading this throughout a third-person narrative might be an effective way of using a first-person voice, which you do well, and at the same time emphasising the supremacy and sanctified nature of the angel.

Clearly, this is an extremely well thought out manuscript that is very popular amongst your peers. It is not perfect, but the world you have created is vivid and interesting, and I hope you continue to build upon it. As your writing develops, I can see this coming together well. You are certainly one to watch.

http://inkpop.com/projects/3414/first-to-dream-of-love/

I think I like the original prologue best. Your background in poetry comes through in both, but your writing style appears to often touch upon short, choppy sentences, and the first prologue breaks that up a bit. That out of the way, your writing is beautiful and overcomes some things that I have criticized others for (pronouns). Very lyrical style, complementing your romantic narrative. Well done, and worth backing.
Craig
The Job

Cara,

This is a delightful piece, lyrical and stunning in its simplicity. You have such striking descriptions that the reader is helplessly drawn in to revel in this story, regardless of their age. You have an air of sophistication about your wok that helps you to stand out in an over-crowded genre.

Backed with pleasure!
Abi xxx

Hi Cara, you've written a beautiful book. I enjoyed it thoroughly. Well done. Backed with thanks, Barry
Little Krisna and the Bihar Boys

First, To Dream Love

This is an amazing book!
As for the prologues I lean towards the first, to me it has a real sense of sophisticated beauty and spirit.
The style and the way you write, sends Goosebumps down the spine.
The way you hold the dark and swath it in light is fantastic, this is way beyond fantasy, this is a genre all on it’s own. I am slightly I awe of this book.

First, To Dream Love

This is an amazing book!
As for the prologues I lean towards the first, to me it has a real sense of sophisticated beauty and spirit.
The style and the way you write, sends Goosebumps down the spine.
The way you hold the dark and swath it in light is fantastic, this is way beyond fantasy, this is a genre all on it’s own. I am slightly I awe of this book.

I realize that I have already read Chapter 2 before and still love it. You are amazing.
Robert (the world of hek, book one: christlike)

I wasn't sure if I had read this before or not but now I know. I remember the prologue with the poetry and remember being fascinated with your ability. But, also, not being a huge fan of poetry under normal circumstances, I love the other prologue even more, Your writing creates such visuals that not evryone can do. I can see the castle and the pain of loss and fear. Also, from a marketing point of view, straight fiction usually sells better than poetry and may guarantee a longer, more profiatble career in writing.

I love all your books. They deserve to be published. Bamboo Promise

congratulations on your publication! Did Harper-Collins publish it?

This is an imaginative story. You've obviously put a lot of thought into creating this world because you can describe it down to small details. Next, you've created good characters for it. Makes it hard to beat. I’m adding this to my shelf. Burgio (Grain of Salt).

Haven't had much time yet but intrigued by the opening pages. Well crafted and a delight to read. Always a pleasure to see polished work (although I know many pieces here are works in progress). Will try to make some more time to read more.

Clive
Cincinnati Dancing Pig

great story - lovely style - absolutely top notch

Backed

Kev

I can't help asking why the hell this book has a red arrow alongside it.

Your writing is very fluid and had me sitting on the edge of my seat. Great descriptions too. His eyes piercing through me like fallen ice, was exceptional.

Great work, i'll definitely be recommending your book.

Melxx
(UNICORN)

Dear Cara Ruegg,

Thank you for sharing your story with us. I skipped to “Nightmares Resemble Your Fear” to cover ground less traveled. Your greatest strength lies in your star-crossed romance. I understand that if Michael marries the princess there will be war AND he’s the cause of all her problems AND even his own mother says the princess would be better off dead than as his wife. That’s some epic star-crossing---great job! Good juxtaposition between loving Eliza but seeing her death.

In my fallible opinion, you could make your story even better by removing the “Okay” which didn’t sit right with me in terms of medieval flavor. A typo snuck into your work in “Resounded a woman’s voice” where “Resounded” shouldn’t be capitalized.

These small matters aside, I enjoyed your story. Bravo! Backed.

Best wishes,
Alan Marling

This is lovely, reading it is like a long slow sweetly unfurling dream. I still periodically check out and read the Red, Green, and Yellow Fairy Books, yours is evocative of the old enchanting tales. Its a fairy tale, and thank you so much for writing one. I also love good poetry and yours is beautiful, interspersing it during the reads added to my pleasure. In addition to all that good stuff there is a love story, Eliza and Matthew who better have a happy ending! lol, no but really!

A real pleasure
Kathleen

Your prose is like poetry. Your style is beautiful to read, and completely different from any other author--which is a good thing. Mystical, magical. This is pure pleasure to read. Thank you! Backed.
Rosalind Barden
American Witch

The poetry is not straightjacketed by formal rhythm and cadence but is the better for having your own idiosyncratic lilt which, I think, comes from the integrity with which you wish to express your subject, in particular the fraternal love, the guardian angel that weeps and the father.
Again, the poetry resonates for a medieval setting and I found the whole engaging because you do realise your own voice.
I wouldn't want to see you lose any of the poetry or gentle description but I would only mention that, where you are setting scene, as long as you can maintain immediacy in the prose, your narrative will go from strength to strength.
Certainly, for me, the poetry and the delicacy of your prose, when combined with the promise of an original storyline, make me want to read on. Shelved.
Ray
(A Child from the Wishing Well)

Cara,
This is fantastic writing...the tale is told with such complete confidence and skill, that it’s a joy to just read and let it flow.
Your prose is magical, beguiling and thoroughly addictive.
There is a great deal more to this story than the pitch reveals, but that’s great. It’s an unexpected thrill to find that the author is offering something much more layered than at first glance.
You are quite rightly heading upward, I hope that resting on my shelf will help you continue to do so.
Very best Wishes
Dawn : ARK

This is beautiful! You write very well. I really like the woman in his dreams. I thought that was intersting. You really get into Michael's character and you can feel the hatred he has. Your writing is poetic and I can find nothing I would change.

S. Ridley

Flowing freely between dreamscape, archetype, and Arthurian legend, this tale has a moody loveliness that is as lyrical as it is sad. We have seen this dream before, but we never tire of it. Here it is retold with something special, a fierce adolescent yearning that should appeal to the YA audience. Good luck with this.
Ruth
Amsterdam 2012

Simply lovely.
Backed...what a heart you must have.

Cara,

I hope you're well aware of the gift you have for wordplay. I love the Shakespearean style prologue and the rush of imagery you stuff into every paragraph. Very curious to read on. Nice job!

Kevin
Head Games

I would work on your pitch a little more, as a good pitch can be used when you query agents. A pitch should list the protagonist(s), the antagonist(s) and the conflict between them, as that summarizes the plot of the book. Your pitch doesn't really tell me what the book is about, only that it has a beautiful princess in it.

As for your writing, I will say that you have a unique voice. I'm not sure if this is the best kind of story for me to review because the poetry isn't really doing anything for me, so I won't be critical about that-- I acknowledge that I'm probably not the target audience for this work.

Plot wise, as best I can tell this story is about a war involving angels and a royal family. Because you uploaded random chapters, it makes it impossible for me to follow the plot. There is also too much rosy writing for my taste, and I often find myself losing track of what is happening because there are too many unnecessary words and sentences distracting from the story.

Because you have a strong command of the English language I do think you have talent as a writer and the story likely has potential (you appear to have done quite a'bit of world building), but this needs a lot of editing because I honestly have no idea what this story is about, so I have little incentive to read all of it.

Backed.

Hello Cara,
I'm really glad that I have read some of your story. I totally agree with 'gilly flower's' comments. Your prose is beautiful and lyrical. As you say, it does need a little editing here and there and you have a Point of View Issue in the Angel's narrative at the start (the old woman's thoughts). Hope you don't mind me pointing this out . I am backing this book because it deserves to be higher in the rankings. SHELVED with pleasure.

Phyllis Burton
A Passing Storm (I should be grateful if you would have a look at it)

AW thank you so much! Regarding the guardian angel I kinda intended for that. I think it reasonable that an angel would know a person's thought b/c he is a divine creature and if he can hear the prayers of dear Eliza so far away, surely knowing what an old woman is thinking wouldn't be such a far-off theory but yeah I did have a lot of POV issues first starting out that I'm still trying to find and fix. thanks for the help. X -Cara

Hello Cara,
I'm really glad that I have read some of your story. I totally agree with 'gilly flower's' comments. Your prose is beautiful and lyrical. As you say, it does need a little editing here and there and you have a Point of View Issue in the Angel's narrative at the start (the old woman's thoughts). Hope you don't mind me pointing this out . I am backing this book because it deserves to be higher in the rankings. SHELVED with pleasure.

Phyllis Burton
A Passing Storm (I should be grateful if you would have a look at it)

Cara, I think it's all been said. Very little I can add really. It's a very unusual book indeed - one which evokes mood in the reader, rather than the specific desire to follow a story. Some books i feel in specific parts of the body (I know that sounds strange) - lately a lot have been hitting me right in the solar plexus. This however winds its way around the heart and evokes a sadness, a longing, a yearning.
I'll be honest, it's not a book I would probably read by choice at this stage in my life - though I would have devoured it whole when I was younger....(I was a better person then, I think!).
Backed of course
Jane
WALKER

hi cara, you have a basketful of images and strew them into our laps like a spray of beautiful flowers. You have a soft way of describing strong ideas and you know how to use your specific language tools to their best advantage. I would have preferred poetry with a firmer set of rhythm, but maybe I'm just oldfashioned. On my WL and destined for shelf shortly.

Tonight I read, 'When death comes like a dream.' I just wanted to read something wonderful, that I adored. that I didn't have to think too hard about writing constructive comments for. Tonight, I just wanted to read for pleasure, so of course, I came to you. I wondered if I had chosen the right chapter to lift my mood, but despite the darkness of the story - the black tears, the crow eating the berry - it still held the magic and majesty that I fell in love with on my first read of the site. X

Dear Cara,

Those who kindly backed "The Doctor of Summitville" may be interested to know that I'm showing another book, "Call Home the Child," a somewhat satirical novel about a troubled interracial adoption. I hope you'll take a look.

Yours, Bill

Here's the thing: I love your writing. It's ethereal, angelic and feather light. I've considered other writings lyrical, but this is quite literally so. There were passages I felt should be sung instead of read. It looks to be archetypal - myth and fable and fairy tales. I feel your love and yearning on these cyber-pages. One disappointment - that you skipped chapters! I hope you finish this soon, so we can read straight through :-)

Shelved, of course.

This is just so beautiful, enchanting and mesmerizing. It is such a unique piece of work, I'm not sure anything I can say can do it justice. I am backing you with great pleasure and I sure hope to see this in print very soon!

Wow. This is pretty amazing. From the first sentence you have me hooked. It's poetic, reminiscent of Roy's God of Small Things. I agree with the person before me, your story is the best I've read on the site. Definitely deserves a place on the ED.
There's just one sentence that jumps out at me; it's a little out of place. "...threw unneeded books to the far right side." Since you use such streamlined diction throughout, "far right side" seems so specific it is emphasized, and I'm not sure it's important enough to stick out like that. That said, it's extremely minor and overall this work is incredibly strong. Backed.

/estrago
Beloved on the Earth

ps. thanks for your comment!

Wow. This is pretty amazing. From the first sentence you have me hooked. It's poetic, reminiscent of Roy's God of Small Things. I agree with the person before me, your story is the best I've read on the site. Definitely deserves a place on the ED.
There's just one sentence that jumps out at me; it's a little out of place. "...threw unneeded books to the far right side." Since you use such streamlined diction throughout, "far right side" seems so specific it is emphasized, and I'm not sure it's important enough to stick out like that. That said, it's extremely minor and overall this work is incredibly strong. Backed.

/estrago
Beloved on the Earth

ps. thanks for your comment!

A beautiful creation. Stunning, visual scenes. Loved it. Best, Sana

Dear Cara

I read The Threat of Death (Michael). This is a compelling series of scenes and keeps me in suspense for what may happen to little Charles. I like the way you present this story and having looked at other chapters as well as this one, I can see you write very well.

Backed with best wishes for the last week or so. Catherine, Whirl of the Wheel :)

Wow! I could feel myself being the white wolf. Neat! I'm not much of a poetry fan, but I really enjoyed your poetry in this. It was placed well and fit well into your story. Your writing is refreshing.

Backed by SD Gillen

I am backing this because I believe it is genuine quality writing, and I'm impressed. If you'd like a few details, message me. I'm sorry to say my time is not my own, what with 125 students in my charge and twin granddaughters only a year old but so lovely they already can get me to do anything they want.

I hope you get to the ED soon. Don't be discouraged by a little down arrow. I see some people getting that way.

Bill

Not my genre, but I think it will set a new standard in its own genre of fantasy-adventure-fairy-tales.
It is written in a strategically placed; rich powerful, captivating poetic narrative.
Takes an intellectual-fantasy approach with a dash of religion.
Backed because it is different from the normal for this genre.

Not my genre, but I think it will set a new standard in its own genre of fantasy-adventure-fairy-tales.
It is written in a strategically placed; rich powerful, captivating poetic narrative.
Takes an intellectual-fantasy approach with a dash of religion.
Backed because it is different from the normal for this genre.

Not my genre, but I think it will set a new standard in its own genre of fantasy-adventure-fairy-tales.
It is written in a strategically placed; rich powerful, captivating poetic narrative.
Takes an intellectual-fantasy approach with a dash of religion.
Backed because it is different from the normal for this genre.

Cara,

This is really interesting! I'm going to have to sit down and finish reading through the entire book. I'm pretty impressed with the first chapter, it's normal not my type of thing, but the way you word things is like reading a novel through poetry. Very well done, can't wait to read more! =)

- Nataliya