What Readers are Saying About The Labyrinth Wall:
Editorial Review:
Reviewed by Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite5 Stars!
In The Labyrinth Wall by Emilyann Girdner, Araina had just received her meal for the week - three potatoes, a dead rat, and two canisters of water - from the Creators. Back at her hideaway, she ventured beyond her usual space and discovered another part of her world that she had not seen before, with real water, unlike the acid type around the labyrinth, and even some edible fruit. As if the wonders of the day could not end, she saw a man magically appear through the labyrinth wall. Curious to know about the world beyond their current confines, Araina and a new ally decide to find and talk to the man with magical healing powers that came through the wall. They have to break him out of the Creators' heavily guarded castle; a place where none of their kind can ever be allowed to enter. Araina hates the helpless feeling of always living on the Creators' terms and she is determined to do something about it. But first she and her companions must survive through a maze of endless dark tunnels filled with all kinds of deadly creatures, sharp blades, poisonous gases, and endless traps.
The Labyrinth Wall by Emilyann Girdner is a captivating tale of bravery and the power of determination in a land haunted by hunger, death and misery, and survival of the fittest. The contrast between the life lived by the Mahk and the Creators is simply astonishing and Emilyann Girdner brought it out perfectly. Emilyann Girdner’s incredible writing skills take you from this world and dump you in the labyrinth with Araina and company as they navigate the endless deadly tunnels. The characters are so real and I was able to connect with them so deeply that I was even able to feel the chills every time Araina came face to face with death, and was forced to hold my breath as she fought to survive. But more importantly, the relief I felt every time she beat the odds was so magnificent. The Labyrinth Wall by Emilyann Girdner is an amazingly captivating page-turner and I loved reading every single page.
Amazon Reviews:
Escape on an adventure, June 19, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I love fantasy and exploring vast new worlds. Adventure is always around every twist, turn, and flip of the page too. Ariana interested me from the first page, and as the story progressed I found myself connecting with her innocence and bravery. The bird too. I don’t know why, but i always connect with animals in stories.
The world itself is built and shown to us in layers, meaning we don’t see too much too soon and we can feel the world out through Ariana’s eyes. From class system to races, the author rolls out each nook and cranny, leaving no plot holes behind.
The writer style is more classical, which I always love in alt world fantasy. I’d recommend to lovers of YA fantasy, but specifically for anyone seeking to escape, and fold into the pages of an adventure.
The world itself is built and shown to us in layers, meaning we don’t see too much too soon and we can feel the world out through Ariana’s eyes. From class system to races, the author rolls out each nook and cranny, leaving no plot holes behind.
The writer style is more classical, which I always love in alt world fantasy. I’d recommend to lovers of YA fantasy, but specifically for anyone seeking to escape, and fold into the pages of an adventure.
It is amazing!!!, June 1, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
It was so very good, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Tantalizing Mystery, May 21, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Books that have some mystery to them are right up my alley. I like drama. I like suspense. I like mysteries. Plain and simple thee type of books make for the best stories to keep you hooked in and never wanting the book to end. This labyrinth adventure is very well written and kept me captivated all the way through. There was lots of excitement and things to think about and solve. This was a book that I really enjoyed and I would love to read something else like it in the near future.
Stories are often told where the reader has a clear shot of knowing what is coming and what is going to happen next. I have heard about labyrinth stories before being told where someone goes inside the labyrinth and the reader follows their journey on how to get out of it. This book took a new perspective on your typical and followed characters that were made inside of the labyrinth and had never escaped from within it’s walls. They feel like they are prisoners and trapped. They want to know what more there is to life because right now all that finds them is starvation and the feeling that they are going to die. Araina sets forth with others to try and find a way out of the labyrinth. Trust is a big issue within this group and so it keeps things spiced up and interesting along their journey to freedom.
This novel was filled with moments that were exciting, funny and also that made you think as a reader what you would do if you were the one that had been stuck inside the labyrinth all of this time. How far would you go? This novel will pull you in and make you think in a good way. There are also fighting scenes as they make their way through and have to get passed obstacles such as guards and creatures that stand in their way. The author has made for a smooth read with a topic that is far from ordinary. I really look forward to seeing what else she may have to offer in the future. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes to read about adventure and to think a little while they read about the situation and what the outcome might be. Thrilling read that I could not put down and I bet you won’t be able to either.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my review. All thoughts are my own.
Stories are often told where the reader has a clear shot of knowing what is coming and what is going to happen next. I have heard about labyrinth stories before being told where someone goes inside the labyrinth and the reader follows their journey on how to get out of it. This book took a new perspective on your typical and followed characters that were made inside of the labyrinth and had never escaped from within it’s walls. They feel like they are prisoners and trapped. They want to know what more there is to life because right now all that finds them is starvation and the feeling that they are going to die. Araina sets forth with others to try and find a way out of the labyrinth. Trust is a big issue within this group and so it keeps things spiced up and interesting along their journey to freedom.
This novel was filled with moments that were exciting, funny and also that made you think as a reader what you would do if you were the one that had been stuck inside the labyrinth all of this time. How far would you go? This novel will pull you in and make you think in a good way. There are also fighting scenes as they make their way through and have to get passed obstacles such as guards and creatures that stand in their way. The author has made for a smooth read with a topic that is far from ordinary. I really look forward to seeing what else she may have to offer in the future. I would recommend this book to anyone that likes to read about adventure and to think a little while they read about the situation and what the outcome might be. Thrilling read that I could not put down and I bet you won’t be able to either.
Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my review. All thoughts are my own.
Epic twists, May 20, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
By
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
My review: Going into this book I really didn't know what to expect. I had a little bit of back story but I came in without knowing much and I must admit I was surprised. The book thrusts you into a world without any knowledge of whats going on and you're forced to figure out what the world is like through the main characters eyes, a stubborn teenage girl. This was executed brilliantly through very detailed explanations of the world which allowed me to really visualize the world like I was seeing it through my eyes which I thought was really cool. There was pain, suffering, and loss throughout the whole book. There was also growth as well. You get to watch a person who doesn't trust the world and moves through every day struggling to being thrown into situation that turns that life completely upside down and their journey to get to something better.
I liked this book because it allowed me to really become apart of this world. We learned only what the main character learned and made me feel very involved and very excited to see what will happen later in the series because of the massive cliffhanger it left, which I always have a love/hate relationship with. It keeps me very interested but it keeps me itching to know whats going on. This book I feel is for those who like being involved in the book and paying complete attention to a book. It creates a new world which I love. I would recommend this book to mainly young adults and up because there are some very graphic moments in the book and I would give 4 stars. I can't wait for the rest of the series :)
I was given this book by the author for review purposes only, positive review was not required
I liked this book because it allowed me to really become apart of this world. We learned only what the main character learned and made me feel very involved and very excited to see what will happen later in the series because of the massive cliffhanger it left, which I always have a love/hate relationship with. It keeps me very interested but it keeps me itching to know whats going on. This book I feel is for those who like being involved in the book and paying complete attention to a book. It creates a new world which I love. I would recommend this book to mainly young adults and up because there are some very graphic moments in the book and I would give 4 stars. I can't wait for the rest of the series :)
I was given this book by the author for review purposes only, positive review was not required
Fast paced!, May 20, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
By
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Labyrinth Wall is a story about a girl named Araina, who is trying to survive in a bleak, uncaring world where there is little food, and danger at every turn. She is a Mahk, and the Mahk are a race of people created by the Creators, and ever since creation, they are thrown into a dangerous world and are forced to collect obsidian for food. Araina discovers the possibility of a better life outside the walls of the labyrinth, when she sees a man fall through the wall, onto her side. I will try not to spoil the story for you, as it is good one.
The things I liked most about this book was that it was very fast paced, it never got dull or boring at any part of the book. The writing style of the author was clear and easy to follow. And the characters are interesting and well developed.
The things I didn’t like, was that I wish that the character Korun played a bigger part in the dialogue parts of the story. I felt he didn’t do much other than heal people and talk to Araina about her distrustful nature. I also didn’t care much for the character Darith. I thought his speech pattern could be hard to follow sometimes, but it did add a unique flair to his character.
My favorite character has to be Araina. She is just so cool and tough! She doesn’t let her emotions get in the way of her thinking. And she is a skilled fighter and survivor.
Overall I really liked this book and I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
The Labyrinth Wall is a story about a girl named Araina, who is trying to survive in a bleak, uncaring world where there is little food, and danger at every turn. She is a Mahk, and the Mahk are a race of people created by the Creators, and ever since creation, they are thrown into a dangerous world and are forced to collect obsidian for food. Araina discovers the possibility of a better life outside the walls of the labyrinth, when she sees a man fall through the wall, onto her side. I will try not to spoil the story for you, as it is good one.
The things I liked most about this book was that it was very fast paced, it never got dull or boring at any part of the book. The writing style of the author was clear and easy to follow. And the characters are interesting and well developed.
The things I didn’t like, was that I wish that the character Korun played a bigger part in the dialogue parts of the story. I felt he didn’t do much other than heal people and talk to Araina about her distrustful nature. I also didn’t care much for the character Darith. I thought his speech pattern could be hard to follow sometimes, but it did add a unique flair to his character.
My favorite character has to be Araina. She is just so cool and tough! She doesn’t let her emotions get in the way of her thinking. And she is a skilled fighter and survivor.
Overall I really liked this book and I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
Just ok, May 12, 2014
3 out of 5 Stars
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was never really sure what kind of book this was. On one hand, it was a very dystopian storyline, on the other hand, it could have been a science fiction book, and yet, it could have fit into its home genre of young adult fantasy. There wasn't enough in the book itself to push it towards any one genre.Normally in any book, there's always a mix of genres. I could easily handle a sci-fi/fantasy/dystopian book, look at Ender's Game, there's a perfect example. But, this book just left me with a sense of confusion and grappling for what was actually going on.
There were times when the author did a great job of describing characters and scenery. Then the relationships between the characters left much to be desired and seemed very two dimensional to me. I believe the only relationship that truly took on any life was the one between Ariana and Blue, and even then at times it seemed a little too contrived.
The book was an easy, quick read from what I've been immersing myself in lately, but I don't think I would re-read it.
I was never really sure what kind of book this was. On one hand, it was a very dystopian storyline, on the other hand, it could have been a science fiction book, and yet, it could have fit into its home genre of young adult fantasy. There wasn't enough in the book itself to push it towards any one genre.Normally in any book, there's always a mix of genres. I could easily handle a sci-fi/fantasy/dystopian book, look at Ender's Game, there's a perfect example. But, this book just left me with a sense of confusion and grappling for what was actually going on.
There were times when the author did a great job of describing characters and scenery. Then the relationships between the characters left much to be desired and seemed very two dimensional to me. I believe the only relationship that truly took on any life was the one between Ariana and Blue, and even then at times it seemed a little too contrived.
The book was an easy, quick read from what I've been immersing myself in lately, but I don't think I would re-read it.
Amazing first book, it is a great fantasy!, May 12, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
Niki. Mattes (North Carolina) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Ariana is a young girl who is "created" 2 years ago by the creators, it is a hard life, fight to survive and find obsidian to give to the creators in exchange for food, not that it is much, most people starve to death or kill others for their food. Ariana doesn't kill she survives somehow.
One day when she is fighting with her friend Darith, she sees a man fall through a "wall". she has a nasty cut in her leg and the man in white lays his hands on her leg and heals her wound, then he runs on to safe himself. Creators guards run after the man and Araina and Darith decide to safe the man, they follow them top the castle of the Creators. They decide to get in and are in awe of what they see. In order to find the man in white they kidnap a guard to help them. She does help but is stubborn too, only Araina has something to keep over her head to guarantee her helping, The Creators find out what happened and release magic and other bad stuff in the Labyrinth to take revenge.
The three meet up with more people, Ariana is determine to get Kuron back to the wall. if they make it and get to a better place is for you to find out.
I personal loved this book, it is a good read. magical animals and figures, action and weird places, it is all about survival, it reminded me aa bit of hunger games mixed with
The Clan of the Cave Bear if you like these books then this is a must read!!!!
One day when she is fighting with her friend Darith, she sees a man fall through a "wall". she has a nasty cut in her leg and the man in white lays his hands on her leg and heals her wound, then he runs on to safe himself. Creators guards run after the man and Araina and Darith decide to safe the man, they follow them top the castle of the Creators. They decide to get in and are in awe of what they see. In order to find the man in white they kidnap a guard to help them. She does help but is stubborn too, only Araina has something to keep over her head to guarantee her helping, The Creators find out what happened and release magic and other bad stuff in the Labyrinth to take revenge.
The three meet up with more people, Ariana is determine to get Kuron back to the wall. if they make it and get to a better place is for you to find out.
I personal loved this book, it is a good read. magical animals and figures, action and weird places, it is all about survival, it reminded me aa bit of hunger games mixed with
The Clan of the Cave Bear if you like these books then this is a must read!!!!
Amazing Dystopian Fantasy, May 7, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I’m a big fan of fantasy fiction provided it isn’t super sweet and cute and I am so glad I read The Labyrinth Wall. The Labyrinth Wall is a great adventure with a dystopian fantasy feel. Ariana and Darith go from one exciting adventure to another which makes the book impossible to put down. There is a constant quest to learn whether there is really something better outside the labyrinth walls. If you enjoy books like The Hobbit (with a slightly lighter feel), you will definitely enjoy The Labyrinth Wall by Emilyann Girdner. I can’t wait to read the next book.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
I received a copy of this book for my honest review.
Must Read More..., April 3, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
By
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Wow. This book was engaging. It's been a while since I felt COMPELLED to keep reading, but Emilyann definitely pulled that one off magnificently. Her world was scary and I truly felt like an oblivious prisoner right along with the characters, frustrated by their circumstances and anxious to break free. Their world was dangerous and magical, and nowhere I EVER want to be. I very much loved Ariana's cold perspective of the world, and how she changed through the novel. The ending was not the only I hoped for, but it will do--for now. BOOK 2 BETTER NOT TAKE A LONG TIME GETTING OUT THE DOOR. Just sayin'...
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
Very Good!, March 31, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Ms. Girdner is a talented storyteller. This novel delivers a fast-paced adventure, with some unexpected twists. From start to finish, it is non-stop entertainment. I am ready for her next book in the series!
A Great Read!!!!, March 30, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
A great new series for the fantasy genre. Keeps your attention throughtout the entire read. Hoping to see more from the series!!!
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
A must read for YA fantasy lovers, March 30, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
The Labyrinth Wall has a fresh perspective on the booming dystopia genre, and has a strong female character that spends very little time on trivial love life fantasies. Throughout the book, I appreciated the strength and resilience of the main character, Araina, and her struggle to find compassion and empathy in a bleak, dangerous world. The story and its characters are raw and focused, with much of the frivolous details left up to the imaginations of the readers. The mysterious origins of Korun and the quest to discover what lies beyond the labyrinth wall had me engaged and interested from the start.
Excellent story!, March 28, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
This book is so well written. I got sucked into the story immediately. It is refreshing to have an intriguing fantasy book to read that is different than the rest.
I can't wait for the rest of the series so I can find out what happens to these characters the author so brilliantly brought to life.
I can't wait for the rest of the series so I can find out what happens to these characters the author so brilliantly brought to life.
Unlocking my imagination, March 28, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Paperback)
This is the first book that put visual pictures in my head. Normally, the corresponding movie helps me get through a book because I can see the movie in my head. But Emilyann's writing changed that. From the first chapter I could visualize characters and environments. I've never had that happen before. I even went to the extent of doing some crudely drawn sketches of the first chapter. I was sucked into the story right away and felt like I was a character in the book as well. Again, another first for me. I can't wait to see what comes next.
The Labyrinth Wall, March 27, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I have read and really enjoyed this book. I am not a young adult in fact I am a Sr. citizen. This book was suggested to me by a friend as interesting to read. I have read several series of books over the years, including Harry Potter, Lord of The Rings, Twilight, Hunger Games and The Work and The Glory. and others. I was suprised at how quickly I became involved in this book.
The characters seemed very real with interesting issues many people of all ages face and how they are able to deal with them and each other. This book was very well written with much thought given to detail. I have passed a copy of this book along to my married daughter and she has now passed it along to her Mother-in-law. I hope to get it back or I will buy another one so that one can continue to be passed along.
The characters seemed very real with interesting issues many people of all ages face and how they are able to deal with them and each other. This book was very well written with much thought given to detail. I have passed a copy of this book along to my married daughter and she has now passed it along to her Mother-in-law. I hope to get it back or I will buy another one so that one can continue to be passed along.
An Exciting Magical World, March 25, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Emilyann Girdner's first novel in The Obsidian Series quickly draws you into the story of Araina and her existence in the labyrinth. Araina begins her quest to escape the Creators' dangerous attacks and reach the other side of The Labyrinth Wall. Her journey leads to exciting sometimes humorous action and characters - fights, cannibals, saber-tooth mutts, and more. It all makes for a thrilling, magical read. My educator wife loves that there is an online vocabulary list and discussion guide for use in the classroom. We are very much looking forward to the next novel in the series.
Page Turner!, March 24, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I'm not an avid fantasy reader, so I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked up this book. I'm so glad I did! Emilyann creates a detailed world that you can easily picture in your head. The plot line is exciting and keeps you on your toes. I also love the character development. Each person has their own quirky personality, and you really get to know them and how they think. I can't wait for the next book to come out!
Great Fantasy Book!, March 24, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Yeah, I would definitely keep reading if this were to become a series. The characters and world are all so in depth and intriguing! It held my interest the whole way through. If you love fantasy, you'll love this one.
Great start to a very entertaining series, March 24, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I loved the overall feeling of the novel, as well as the authors ability to flesh out the characters. Just when you think you know what is around the corner, there is a twist and you are left excited to find out what happens next. This book has a lot going on, but unlike a lot of fantasy its not confusing or overly complicated.
My first thought after reading this book was that I can't wait for the second one, and I still feel that way.
My first thought after reading this book was that I can't wait for the second one, and I still feel that way.
Great first novel, March 24, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I would recommend this to anyone wanting to dive head first into the fantasy genre. The descriptions paint a strange new world that you can't wait to learn more about. Araina is a strong female heroine that every girl can look up to. I can't wait to read more!
Interesting world & characters...what's next?!?!, March 24, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I am half way through this book and really enjoying the development of the characters and the world they inhabit... the author stirs up all the questions and intrigues a book should have at this point. I love the suspense and wonder if all my questions will be answered or will it take the rest of the series? That's why I was just checking in on the Amazon page but it doesn't look like Girdner's second book is out yet. Oh no! Maybe I need to SLOW DOWN!
Amazing!!!, March 23, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
felicia sturgis (Columbia, MO, US) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Loved it! I could imagine the characters with perfect clarity! Emilyann has brought the world of the Labyrinth to life with so many splendid details! I cannot wait for the second one to come out! Why were the Mahk created in the first place? Will they ever make it out of the labyrinth? Is it even possible to escape?
The Rotting Pass was so creepy and a particular character found here sent shivers down my spine! And the river? So very, very dark. So many other things I could rave about but I'm afraid to delve into spoilers territory so I'll just highly recommend that you check it out for yourselves! I feel that it won't be too long before some studio buys rights to make films out of this!
The Rotting Pass was so creepy and a particular character found here sent shivers down my spine! And the river? So very, very dark. So many other things I could rave about but I'm afraid to delve into spoilers territory so I'll just highly recommend that you check it out for yourselves! I feel that it won't be too long before some studio buys rights to make films out of this!
Great Read, March 23, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Great story! Very imaginative and a great read. Highly recommend anyone looking for a good fantasy novel or series :-)
Strange Fantasy book, March 19, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
By
Pam Funke Author of The Apocalypse Series (Georgia, USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
This book was very well written. It quickly draws the reader into the story an keeps them there. I'm not normally a reader of fantasy books and I wasn't sure what to expect from this one. But I am surprised to say that it was a descriptive story that takes you on an enjoyable journey.
Wonderful, beautiful book!, February 6, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
This lady is truly talented. Please give this book a read, you will be pleasantly surprised ; ) .
The writing will pull you in, the labyrinth will keep you intrigued.
The writing will pull you in, the labyrinth will keep you intrigued.
The Labyrinth Wall, January 31, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Have not read yet, but when I do I am sure it will be great. Nothing like getting carried away to another world and time.
read this book!, January 28, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
creative and captivating, I couldn't put it down! Everyone should read this book, I can't wait for what the author comes out with next
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
An Unexpected Journey, January 27, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
By
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Follow along as Araina feels drawn one event after another farther into her unknown. Hear her questions, see her observations, wonder about her uncertainties (not least of which is, can others be trusted, or not), and share her discoveries.
I found it very engaging. I like the get on with the story, fill in details as (and if) needed later approach. It felt like a good pace from beginning to end, unlike another very popular book of similar genre which felt jarring toward the end, like it suddenly kicked into high speed. In terms of background scenery which doesn't affect the story, much is left to the imagination. Yet rich detail is naturally sprinkled throughout which gives deeper insight into the story in progress - yes, key elements of the foreground environment, but also attentive glimpses of characters' interactions and expressions. In fact, between the rich subtext and details where they count, I found a second reading shortly after the first quite illuminating and worthwhile, and I rarely take time for leisure reading a first time.
Stylistically, it seemed like it took a few chapters to settle into a comfortable flow (maybe just me), but it was well worth the wait. It seems very well balanced in that while it is obviously the beginning of a series and leaves a lot to look forward to, it also stands alone well and left off at a very good point. I look forward to following its threads farther and learning more about what's really going on (you know, to see if I'm right or not)...
I found it very engaging. I like the get on with the story, fill in details as (and if) needed later approach. It felt like a good pace from beginning to end, unlike another very popular book of similar genre which felt jarring toward the end, like it suddenly kicked into high speed. In terms of background scenery which doesn't affect the story, much is left to the imagination. Yet rich detail is naturally sprinkled throughout which gives deeper insight into the story in progress - yes, key elements of the foreground environment, but also attentive glimpses of characters' interactions and expressions. In fact, between the rich subtext and details where they count, I found a second reading shortly after the first quite illuminating and worthwhile, and I rarely take time for leisure reading a first time.
Stylistically, it seemed like it took a few chapters to settle into a comfortable flow (maybe just me), but it was well worth the wait. It seems very well balanced in that while it is obviously the beginning of a series and leaves a lot to look forward to, it also stands alone well and left off at a very good point. I look forward to following its threads farther and learning more about what's really going on (you know, to see if I'm right or not)...
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
Hard to believe she's a first time author!, January 5, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
By
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Exploding with rich complex text, suspense, excitement, and lessons in companionship. Common Core enthusiasts will love this one! Vocabulary list and discussion guide online to supplement if used in a classroom setting. But also a great read for enjoyment....hard to put down even at a new chapter!
Beth Allen
Literacy Resource Consultant
Beth Allen
Literacy Resource Consultant
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
Wonderful Page-Turner, January 5, 2014
5 out of 5 Stars
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This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I found The Labyrinth Wall to be an addictive and fun read.
This first novel follows the life of Araina, a young girl created in a dangerous labyrinth, whose life changes the day she sees a mysterious man dressed in white walk through the walls she's been confined in. This moment starts a series of events that makes her question her lack of trust in others, as her and her new companions start a quest to find out what better life awaits on the other side of the labyrinth wall.
This action-packed adventure pulled me in, and I found it very hard to put the book down. I'll definitely be buying the next book in the series as soon as it comes out.
This first novel follows the life of Araina, a young girl created in a dangerous labyrinth, whose life changes the day she sees a mysterious man dressed in white walk through the walls she's been confined in. This moment starts a series of events that makes her question her lack of trust in others, as her and her new companions start a quest to find out what better life awaits on the other side of the labyrinth wall.
This action-packed adventure pulled me in, and I found it very hard to put the book down. I'll definitely be buying the next book in the series as soon as it comes out.
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
My First Fantasy Novel, January 2, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
As a newcomer to the fantasy genre, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. It's been a while since I have read a novel written in first person so it took me a few pages to get into it. But once I did the world became real. The details in the book and the inner monologue provided by Araina allowed me to walk through right along side them. I'd recommend this to anyone who is looking for an easy read that provides relaxation and adventure. It was a fun novel!
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful
Awesome Adventure, January 1, 2014
4 out of 5 Stars
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Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: The Labyrinth Wall (Obsidian Series Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
I enjoy books about puzzles, mysteries, riddles, adventure and suspense. Some of the best books for those ingredients are stories involving a labyrinth. There aren't many books that deliver the same kind of entertainment and excitement as a well-written labyrinth adventure. This is one such book, and is one I really enjoyed.
Most stories involving labyrinths follow someone from the outside who becomes trapped inside one, trying to find their way out. A unique twist in this book, the characters the story follows were created inside the labyrinth, and have never escaped. Desperate to find something more to life than living as an eternal prisoner, constantly in a state of near starvation and death, Araina teams up with several other people, most of whom she knows she can't trust, in order to find a way out of the labyrinth.
Full of exciting situations, humor, and a good look at the human psyche of a labyrinth prisoner, this book pulls you in, and doesn't let you go until the very end. This story mesmerizes you with fights against guards, cannibals, saber tooth mutts, and some slightly insane creatures. Well written and smooth, Emilyann Girdner has created a wonderful reality with this labyrinth experience. I look forward to reading more books from her in the future, and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good fight-for-survival adventure.
*I was given an eCopy of this book, from the author, to read in exchange for an honest review.
~Rose
@Desert Rose Reviews
Most stories involving labyrinths follow someone from the outside who becomes trapped inside one, trying to find their way out. A unique twist in this book, the characters the story follows were created inside the labyrinth, and have never escaped. Desperate to find something more to life than living as an eternal prisoner, constantly in a state of near starvation and death, Araina teams up with several other people, most of whom she knows she can't trust, in order to find a way out of the labyrinth.
Full of exciting situations, humor, and a good look at the human psyche of a labyrinth prisoner, this book pulls you in, and doesn't let you go until the very end. This story mesmerizes you with fights against guards, cannibals, saber tooth mutts, and some slightly insane creatures. Well written and smooth, Emilyann Girdner has created a wonderful reality with this labyrinth experience. I look forward to reading more books from her in the future, and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good fight-for-survival adventure.
*I was given an eCopy of this book, from the author, to read in exchange for an honest review.
~Rose
@Desert Rose Reviews