Rating: Summary: Superficially original, but really derivative schlock Review: I started reading Aurian because I noticed it had done well and thought that might indicate quality. Wrong.The premise was interesting. The execution was overly structured and stiff, the issues ("see me as a sexually attractive woman, my warrior father-figure!"; evil guy of power wants to use and abuse -- sexually and otherwise -- the virtuous yet flawed protagonist) and the cultures (medieval Europe, the middle east) tired and worn. Aurian reads like the product of an overly long D&D session. However, I kept reading, mostly to see just how predictable and annoying it could get. That was where Aurian did not disappoint. It was awful, and reading it was like poking a bruise: it hurts, but you're fascinated by the pain. And, as another reviewer noted, the last 100-200 pages are nothing but a round robin of "Mea culpa, mea culpa--we're in danger--mea culpa, mea culpa!" I had forgotten what bad writing is, but this book really reminded me.
Rating: Summary: An adequate read Review: A thoroughly unispired book. Though the main characters show some depth, this is vastly overshadowed by the hordes of cardboard cutout characters that make up the rest of the cast. Further, nearly all characterization is the sledge-hammer method: If a character is a coward, you're told he's a coward, rather than being shown his cowardice. While this can be a useful technique, it really gets on the nerves, especially as you're introduced to character after character, thoroughout the book, each one accompanied by a 'resume'. ALl that being said, though, and it's not a bad book. It's readable, and somewhat enjoyable. If you're looking for something to read, and there's scant else, then this is a safe choice.
Rating: Summary: Aurian Review: Aurian is an exellent book. It has an exellent storyline, and it will make you want to keep reading to find out what will happen next.
Rating: Summary: better than the rest of her series Review: I'm reading Sword of Flame right now. I liked Aurian better than Harp of winds and the one I'm reading. Aurian just had that certain feel to it, that gets a book it's hallowed spot on your bookshelf. (in other words, it's pretty good)
Rating: Summary: Not just a "chicks" book Review: Strong character and plot development says it all. Ms Furey's imagination knows no limitations from the Magefolk to Mortals to Winged Folk to Phaerie to the Leviathans all are developed with attention to history and detail of their race. Oh, dont forget the dragon! You are brought into a world that is hard to leave or in this case put down. If you like David Eddings, Raymond E. Feist and Terry Goodkind, you'll like this series.
Rating: Summary: Original and engrossing Review: Although the book seemed at times a bit clumsily written, Aurian is a highly original and very interesting beginning to a new fantasy saga that promises to be very involving. Her characters are well-constructed and fascinating - you come to care more and more about them as the book moves along. I especially enjoyed the fact that her central character is a strong, intelligent, powerful woman. The relationship between Aurian and Anvar is also intriguing - I like how she develops it slowly. Their love (which is inevitable, IMHO) promises to be more powerful than Aurian's relationship with Forral (which frankly seemed a little odd). Hopefully her writing style will only improve in subsequent books - this is her first novel, after all. Definitely worth your while.
Rating: Summary: Great Book from start to finish Review: I love all of Maggie Furey's books and i can't wait for the next. When I read Aurian I couldn't put it down. If your looking for a fast paced book then Aurian is the book to get. This is a book for all ages!
Rating: Summary: An absolute gem among fantasy novels.. Review: This book amazes me. I haven't been this engrossed by a fantasy novel since Ursula LeGuin's Earthsea Quartet. The characters are lovable and easy to relate to, and Ms. Furey has a writing style that will have you really getting emotionally involved in Aurian's adventures. I haven't read the whole series just yet, but if they're anything like Aurian, then I don't doubt that they it could well be the best series I've ever read.
Rating: Summary: She's a Lady, she's a Mage, she's every woman! Review: I really enjoyed this book. The loyalty and love, the balance of magic and responsibility and the frailty and strength of Aurian kept me captivated. The characters were so fascinating I couldn't put it down! Thank you Ms. Furey!
Rating: Summary: AURIAN a dream come to life Review: Aurian is my first fantasy book series I have read. It has a great story line and an awesome plot with plenty of suspense and surprises. You surely will love Aurian, Anvar, Davorshan, and especially Shia, all unforgetable charactres. Aurian is incredible
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