My Rating: 3.5 stars: Liked it - recommend (B+)
Full Review: http://www.twimom227.com/2012/07/review-my-lady-mage-by-alexis-morgan.html
When Merewen’s father passed away, her evil Uncle Fagan stepped in and was awarded custody over the keep. His greed and desire for power has corrupted many men in the keep, and Fagan’s neglect as all but broken the manor. After finding an ancient text that promises the help of the Warriors of the Mist, Merewen dares a trip to the River of the Damned to call upon the gods. And the gods answer her call by sending the fabled warriors to aid her.
The mythology of My Lady Mage isn’t one hundred percent original, however it’s different enough to make the story interesting. The world-building is subtle yet complete, drawing me in over the course of the book. The setting is similar to the historical lands of England, with god-sent immortal warriors in a river instead of a Lady in the Lake and King Arthur. Each of the five warriors have secrets and stories to share that will be divulged as the series progresses.
Right from the get go, there is an attraction between the Damned captain, Gideon and our heroine, Merewen. However for me, it read more like a father - daughter relationship in the early stages of the book. Yet, once the story progressed, my earlier concerns were lost in the engrossing story.
The fates of Gideon’s men are tied to his actions. He is judged after each calling, and if he fails to meet the gods expectations, they are all doomed to an afterlife of wandering alone in the dark. Gideon constantly weighs his decisions, and I admire his careful thought process. One such exchange that I felt was superbly executed was when Lady Merewen open’s herself up emotionally and offers herself to Gideon. She is honest and so unsure, but willing to put it all out there knowing they may not have another chance. Her strength is amazing. Gideon wants her so badly, but must weigh his individual needs against the good of his men and what the gods will bless or condemn. The entire section was emotionally satisfying and even a bit romantic and smexy.
In the end, I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next story, Her Knight’s Quest, coming March 2013. My Lady Mage is first and foremost a solidly-written fantasy, and the romance is secondary to the overall tale. The book lays the groundwork for the future of the series, which holds much promise. Although a fantasy story, it has a paranormal-historical feel that I think will appeal to a large audience.