Legacies of Bubalo: The Blood-Red Rose

Rating:
Summary: A Real Treat
Review: I borrowed this book from a close friend, not expecting too much. However, I was totally blown away. The story is fantastic and it's a genuine page turner. I honestly couldn't put it down.

The story takes place in a desert land called Bubalo. The land is in utter turmoil due to religious unbalance and the failure of leadership. The king, Father Bubalo, died unexpectedly and left no statement as to which of his seven children were to claim the royal throne.

The Princes and Princesses, filled with spite and greed, seperate the land into seven pieces, each claiming one portion of the land as their own. They fight amongst each other constantly, almost as if in a civil war, and many innocent civillians are killed as a result of the royalty's recklessness.

The people of Bubalo apparantly have pagan beliefs, worshipping the gods and goddesses of the elements, however, with the royalty split, the High Priests attempt to use the religion as a way to appease their wrath rather than worship the gods and goddesses. (much like how the Olympics were used to appease the gods)

The main character, our heroine, Celest Rykan, is a Priestess in training at the Temple of Darkness along with her friends Junell and Oquara Aurora, two twin sisters who offer comfort and comic relief, Zanette Lackmirror, a strong individual who offers good counsel, and Valor Allon, a sweet and great friend, however, I found him slightly annoying the way he dotes on Celest 24/7.

However, there is a dark and mysterious 'ghost' of a character who proves to be helpful in these dire times and a loving friend to Celest. (I won't spoil the ending for you!)

The characters are brilliantly portrayed and the heroine, Celest Rykan, is enchanting. The ending was wonderful and thought provoking. This is one of the best pieces of literature I have read in a long time.

I loved the book so much I had to buy my very own copy and I suggest that you do the same!

I can't wait to see what H. L. Holmes comes out with next!