Ooo I adored this book! The world was so lush and vivid. The plot was woven beautifully and I was sucked right into the story. While that was all a bonus, the characters are what had me captivated. It was so refreshing to read a hero who isn’t an Alpha. Ward is such a softy, a bit awkward, and seriously the cutest guy ever! More than once I wanted to reach into the book and hug him!! I loved how Celia was this strong gal and I kept cheering her on throughout the story. There is one scene that was by far my favorite—I won’t spoil anything—but Celia shows off her fighting skills and although the scene was serious, I found myself giggling at Ward’s reaction. The two of them just meshed, were written so uniquely, and I was totally engrossed!If you enjoy historical fantasy, you’ll LOVE this one!! I know I did...and I didn’t even realize I liked to read historical fantasy! So...*bounces up and down*...when’s the next one coming out?! ;-) I liked this book a lot, but I wouldn't have even noticed it if the author wasn't in one of my writing groups. The cover is nice, but IMO the packaging makes it look like a paranormal YA. This is historical fantasy, albeit with faster pacing and younger protagonists. The worldbuilding is intricate and well done, with nuance and politics and lovely detail about the magic. I loved the slow reveal of the very-dimensional world these characters occupy. Mel's worldbuilding is evocative of Maria V. Snyder's POISON STUDY, Ursula K. Leguin's MALAFRENA books, and even Sharon Shinn's THE SHAPESHIFTER'S WIFE. The pacing is very crisp - Celia and Ward's action-packed adventure reminds me of Neil Gaiman's NEVERWHERE in that. If you like historical fantasy, I think you'll enjoy this read. I certainly did.
What do You think about Ward Against Death (2011)?
Fantastic! Loved Celia. What a refreshingly complex female character.
—Mandaxxx
