Joanna Hollier Reviews

Page One

Added September 4, 2004

Roary O'Rourke Book 2: Roary, the Princess, and Dooley Do

Author: Joanna Hollier
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Available At: www.whiskeycreekpress.com
Publishing Date: Available Now
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Format: Trade Paperback and Ebook download in PDF/HTML
Price: $9.99 paperback, $3.99 ebook
ISBN: 1-59374-091-3 paperback, 1-59374-090-5 ebook
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo

The adventures of Roary O'Rourke and his friends continue in this second book of the series. The story picks up where the first book ended, as readers return to the world of Elfdom for the wedding of Roary and Princess Lacey Lovelyful. The preparations are in full swing, and everyone in the city of Undertrees is happily awaiting this celebration.

It was discovered in the first book that Dooley Do is the rightful heir of Bramble Castle, and readers will learn the history of the battle that ended his father's life. Princess Lacey and Roary make plans to restore the castle to Dooley Do, but need to postpone this adventure for the Coronation Ball. Will these royal friends be able to place the rightful heir of Bramble Castle on the throne?

The author continues this delightful series with a smooth flow between books. The excitement of the upcoming wedding sweeps readers away with the anticipation of the joyful event. Both Roary and Lacey are sweet characters and readers will delight in their newfound love for each other.

In the first book, readers learned of Dooley Do's true identity. Now, there is an urgency to right the wrong and see him on the throne of his castle. Although a secondary character in the first book, readers see a lot more of Dooley Do in this story, and will learn about the life of the Mountain Men. The secret of the Ancient Tunnel and the smoke language used by the Mountain Men figure prominently in this book , and helps to maintain a high level of interest.

New characters are introduced, and this reviewer loved Bleethemon, the dragon! The author has also provided a nice touch of danger, intrigue and a new romance. This return visit to Elfdom was just as delightful as the first trip, and will lead readers into a new chapter with old friends.

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Added September 4, 2004

Roary O'Rourke Book 1: The Quest for the Secret of Bramble Castle

Author: Joanna Hollier
Publisher: Whiskey Creek Press
Available At: www.whiskeycreekpress.com
Publishing Date: Available Now
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Format: Trade Paperback and Ebook download in PDF/HTML
Price: $9.99 paperback, $3.99 ebook
ISBN: 1-59374-081-6 paperback, 1-59374-080-8 ebook
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo

The adventures of Roary O'Rourke begin in this delightful new series! Set in the village of Undertrees and filled with enchanting characters, young readers will enjoy visiting this fantasy world and going along on a noble quest.

The dastardly Baron Barnabuss Bramble kidnapped Princess Lacey Lovelyful and intends to marry her. King Leaningtree charges Roary with the treacherous task of freeing the lovely lady and bringing her home. Roary sets off with Shaggy Sam, his faithful dog, and his strong steed, Moonbeam. Will he be able to fulfill this challenging quest while dodging the dangers on his path?

Charming and captivating, this book takes readers on a fantasy-filled trip that will fill their hearts with happiness. The world of Elfdom and the city called Undertrees are described with enough details to pique the imagination. Although the quest to save the damsel in distress is a classic story line, the author has provided some unique twists and turns.

However, it's the characters that make this story so endearing. Roary is a gentle soul and a brave young man. Princess Lovelyful is worthy of his daring-do, while all the other characters provide the necessary presence to move the story along. This reviewer especially loved the names of both the people and the places on this adventure! The Laughable Tavern, Bonesapart Plains and the Deadly Desert all lived up to their titles.

There was also a nice touch of the spiritual, as Roary continually seeks the protection and guidance of the Great God of the Forest. His reliance on a higher power to help him, as well as his thankfulness, made a wonderful addition to this tale.

Roary meets many friends and foes on his quest, and the story maintains a fast pace. Young readers will appreciate the enchantment of this fantasy world, as well as enjoy Roary's quest to free the lovely Princess from the entanglement of Bramble Castle.

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