Review: Dragon Heart by Cecelia Holland

 I received a complimentary copy of this book from TOR in exchange for a review.

Cecelia is best known for her historical fiction, and this is her first foray into fantasy. I was really intrigued by the beginning of this story. Tirza is a fascinating protagonist because she is mute. She has been living away fro her family but is brought home by her very loving brother Jeon. 

The pair are traveling home by sea when the boat was upended and Tirza finds herself alone in the presence of a Dragon. A Dragon who she can somehow communicate with. 

To keep herself alive Tirza tells the Dragon stories, though she plots her escape.

once Tirza does escape however the tone and direction of the narrative change. The reader is then immersed in political intrigue with lots of different characters. It was here that the novel lost me. I couldnt really connect with the other characters and even Tirza's actions were very different then earlier in the book. 

It is difficult to follow narrative shifts when the reader has decided they know the direction of the story. I would have loved to have the book focus only on Tirza and the dragon, but that wasn't in alignment with the authors plans. So this book was a kind of mixed bag for me. I am interested in reading more books by this author.

5 (Spoiler Free) Tips For Watching The Force Awakens

I saw The Force Awakens on Monday! It doesn't feel real. I've looked at my badge twice to reassure my self it actually happened:

I have epic flashes of the movie runnning through out my head and I also have these little figures to remind me of the event:

So here are my tips to help you enjoy your experience tomorrow

         Get There Early

I know what your thinking. Of course your going early! But with some theaters checking bags and sold out showings, you don't want to miss a minute of the show.

    Breathe

Seriously. A thirty plus year wait is finally over! You will be excited, surrounded by people and have a thousand thought's running through your head: Will there be a scroll? What will it stay? What is the very first image that will cross the screen? All will be answered so  Breathe and take it all in.

     Listen

Maybe something was off in the theater, maybe its age ;), but I had a problem hearing some of the dialogue. Some pretty valuable info is given in lines that don't have dramatic music to prepare you for them. Yes there will be screaming, and cheering but try to focus through the noise as much as you can.

           Reign In Some Expectations 

Don't repeat mistakes of the past. NO Movie can live up to what we want to see. Many of us want specific questions answered  and some arent addressed  at all in the film.

    Be comfortable  with the "Welms"

You might be overwhelmed by FA or underwelmed. It will take a while to sort your feelings. Don't  let other people influence you opinions, but talk out your feelings.

    See it again !!!

    Wishing you all an amazing experience !

                May The Force Be With You!