Green Rider, Book 1
Synopsis: On her long journey home from school after a fight which will surely lead to her expulsion, Karigan G’ladheon ponders her future as she trudges through the immense forest called Green Cloak. But her thoughts are interrupted by the clattering of hooves as a galloping horse bursts from the woods, the rider slumped over his mount’s neck, impaled by two black-shafted arrows. As the young man lies dying on the road, he tells Karigan that he is a Green Rider, one of the legendary messengers of the king, and that he bears a “life and death” message for King Zachary. He begs Karigan to carry his message, warning her not to read it, and when she reluctantly agrees, he makes her swear on his sword to complete his mission “for love of country.” As he bestows upon her the golden winged-horse brooch which is the symbol of his office, he whispers on his dying breath, “Beware the shadow man…”
Karigan’s promise changes her life forever. Pursued by unknown assassins, following a path only her horse seems to know, and accompanied by the silent specter of the original messenger, she herself becomes a legendary Green Rider. Caught up in a world of deadly danger and complex magic, compelled by forces she cannot understand, Karigan is hounded by dark beings bent on seeing that the message, and its reluctant carrier, never reach their destination.
Review: I had heard a lot of good things about these novels and I must admit that seeing a new release of this first volume, I was very intrigued to finally discover the history. I know that I do not read a lot of fantasy, but it’s always nice to have one handy from time to time.
We discover Karigan, a young girl freshly expelled from her school for an act which, however, should not have had so many consequences. That’s why she now wants to go see her father to tell him what has actually happened. But her return will be completely turned upside down when she will cross the path of a green rider seriously injured and who asks her on his deathbed to bring the message due to which it was pursued. Embarking on a new adventure where she does not really understand the ins, Karigan will have to survive to the events that will continually stand in her way. All this with the help of Horse, she will try to reach the goal she has set to finally return to her father.
Nothing will be simple for our heroine and she will use all her resources to move forward and not give up on her mission. She will thus discover some brand new abilities and creatures she thought being a myth and it was very interesting to see what the author had in mind. Karigan will find herself in a role that she did not want and that everyone wants for her, but can she then escape when the mission is over?
It was a great find and although it essentially follows the girl, we also see from time to time her father, or the villain of the story and a few other characters that are changing little by little over the chapters. Indeed, the novel was a good introduction and I am curious to learn more.
Joy (Joyousreads)
Oh I remember buying this book because it was forced on me by the bookshop staff that I see on occasion. Little did she know that I normally don’t read fantasy books. Sounds like a good one, but I’m still a little daunted. Lol.
Melliane
sometimes fantasy is a nice change
Brandi Breathes Books
Sounds like a nice start with characters good to read about
Melliane
yes it was
kindlemom1
I really like it when books portray the villain in some way as well, it really adds a lot to the book. Fun review!
Melliane
yes that’s true
Ramona
Karin sounds pretty impressive, and the plot has tons of potential. Great review 🙂
Melliane
right?
Bob @ Beauty in Ruins
I read this years ago and quite enjoyed it. Not sure why I haven’t continued with the series, but it’s still on my shelf waiting for it’s chance.
Melliane
I hope the sequels are as good or better.
blodeuedd
I heard book 5 is kind of meh, which makes me sad cos I likes the other ones
Melliane
ah yes a bit sad…
anna (herding cats & burning soup)
Always good when you end a book curious and ready for more 🙂 I’ve not seen hers I don’t think.
Melliane
yes that’s nice.
kimbacaffeinate
I t sounds like she embarks on quite the adventure..I am curious about the powers and myths.
Melliane
that was some good ideas
Carole Rae
Since my one series is done, I do need another series to get addicted too…
Maybe.
Melliane
maybe, you’re more in fantasy too so it could be a really good one for you. My sister love the books.
Braine
What an exciting beginning! Who knew her day will lead to quite an adventure. Expulsion pales in comparison to the rest
Melliane
lol true, she didn’t expect that either
Jennifer Bielman @ Bad Bird Reads
Not sure if it’s for me but I am happy you enjoyed it.
Melliane
thanks
Mogsy @ BiblioSanctum
This sounds pretty great, actually. The cover is really striking, though I don’t think I’ve heard of the series or author or I would have remembered. I will wait to see what you think of the later books to see if it’s worth adding to the big old TBR, thanks!
Melliane
Really? YOu should try! I think it would be a good series for you.
Kirsty-Marie Jones
I don’t read fantasy all that much, too. But when I do, I seem to binge read them, haha. Sounds like mild character development though.