Beyond the Summerland (Binding of the Blade, Book 1)

Rating:
Summary: An excellent novel
Review: 'Beyond the Summerland' is an excellent novel whose pages turn faster than you can imagine. If you enjoy Tolkien and the fantasy writings of C.S. Lewis, you will most certainly enjoy this book. The characters are so real and full and vivid, and the action sequences are intense. (During these sections I was incapable of releasing the book from my grip!) It left me eager for the release of the next book in the series.

Rating:
Summary: Beyond the Summerland
Review: Excellent book! In the tradition of Tolkien and Lewis, L.B.'s story is exciting, riveting and thought provoking. A must read for anyone interested in this genre; I can't wait for the next installment.

Rating:
Summary: Awesome Book! SOOO Worth reading!
Review: Fantasy readers will love it, and even those not addicted to fantasy should like it A LOT too. I couldn't put it down once I got into it. A compelling plot with complex characters and an in-depth world. I love the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and it is refreshing to read a book by an author who loves Tolkien but does not simply mimic him. Beyond the Summerland is more approachable than The Lord of the Rings, but still has plenty of depth (something sadly lacking in so many fantasy books). Graham's Christian worldview also shines through, makes this book a must-have for any Christian Fantasy Lover.

Rating:
Summary: Enjoyable read for a non-fantasy reader
Review: I don't typically read fantasy, but I purchased the book because I know L.B. I struggled through the prologue mainly because I'm not used to this style of literature, but after the first few chapters I was comfortable with the characters and the world created by L.B. By the time I reached the midpoint of the book, it was tough to put it down. There are a lot of interesting storylines and a lot of action. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

Rating:
Summary: Not your average Fantasy Title
Review: I have long been a fan of the works of CS Lewis and Tolkien, but am ussually reticent to try other fantasy titles thinking that they could never match up. But reading a review for LB's book on the Christianity Today website I decided to give it a shot.

The book is not as good as the Narnian Chronicles or Lord of the Rings, but this is no slight against LB because I dont think that any fantasy book in my lifetime will be.

A lot of fantasy books have a comic-bookish feel to them where one gets the impression that there is no significance beyond the story's events. This is not the case for LB's work. It is not merely a tale of good guys beating up the bad guys. Though his work is not allegory, there definately are Theological and moral themes behind the events that make the story applicable to our own lives.

Perhaps more importantly, this book was just plain fun to read. I especially like the character of Aljeron, a sort of warrior who has a special bond with a tiger of all things.

Overall this is a solid first book. I really recomend checking it out.

Rating:
Summary: very good book, I can't wait for the next one
Review: I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story was great, and the writing was excellent. The author does a fabulous job of creating a world that is unique and compelling. If you are a fan of Tolkien or any other fantasy works, you will certainly enjoy this series. The character development and storyline has me eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Rating:
Summary: Great Reading
Review: L.B. Graham writes a truly great first book. this is a must read. Interesting characters, wonderful character development, plot that is exciting and action-filled. A first-rate story that holds together from the first page till the last. Can't wait to purchase the next book in this series.

Rating:
Summary: A great first book...
Review: LB Graham has written a masterful work! This is a must read for any fantasy fan. The style is a wonderful combination of Robert Jordan, JRR Tolkien, and classic mythology. I was hooked to this book 24/7 for two days. I didn't want it to end. Fortunately 4 more books are coming in the series. The ending is a total shocker.

Rating:
Summary: Read this book
Review: LB Graham's characters live in a fantasy world, but the values they project are very real. Some of them are likable, some of them not, just like the real world. The characters face difficult decisions on a daily basis and must live with the results of those decisions. Just like the real world.
Graham's narrative is engaging and funny, exhilarating and exciting. His vivid descriptions of the geography and towns in Summerland allow you to see the whole world in your mind's eye. You'll be scared of Malekim and pray for the arrival of the dragons, which in this world are good. Just like the ... never mind.
This part one in a five part battle of good and evil obviously is based on Graham's worldview, but it's not remotely preachy or inaccessible. The story is complex, but the theme is simple: right is right and wrong is wrong and God is in control of it all, anyway. Just like the real world.

Rating:
Summary: Salivating !
Review: The Glossary left me salivating! What a treasure trove of clues to the fantasy world created by L.B. Graham. If you love fantasy with authentic accouterments like mythic language read on! But don't be put off, you only need to read English to understand this exciting, not-to-be-put-down book. If you are an animal lover, revel in the majestic creatures that inhabit these pages, The Great Bear, Snow Tigers, Grendolai, and Dragons. Talk to them... run, joke, laugh and fight with them! I loved the citizens of Kirthanin, you will too. C'mon, what are you waiting for?!

As a child, I read Lloyd Alexander's series and George MacDonald's series. I cried when I had finished those books because the characters had become my friends.'Beyond the Summerland' pulls you into the lives of its heroic characters as well. Perfect for teens and adults.