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Aisling #1
Guardian
As he pursues a man who is not what he seems, Constable Dallin Brayden learns the lines between enemy and ally, truth and deception, and conscience and obedience are not only blurred, but malleable.
Constable Dallin Brayden knows who he is, what he’s about, and he doesn’t believe in Fate. “Wilfred Calder� has no idea who he is or what he’s about, and he’s been running from Fate for as long as he can remember. When Wil flees after witnessing a murder, it’s Dallin’s job to pursue him. Along the way, he’s pulled into a maelstrom of ancient myth, fanatical religion, and the delicate politics of a shaky truce between two perpetually warring countries—all of which rests on the slender shoulders of the man he knows is not Wilfred Calder.
Even Dallin’s success proves a hollow victory. Wil is vengeful, rebellious, and lethal, and his tale of magic and betrayal rocks the carefully constructed foundations of Dallin’s world. Suspicious and only half believing, Dallin must question not only his own integrity and his half-forgotten past, but the morality and motives of everyone around him—including those who hold his own country’s fate in their hands.
Second Edition.
First Edition published by Torquere/Prizm, 2010.
Cover Artist: Anne Cain
Constable Dallin Brayden knows who he is, what he’s about, and he doesn’t believe in Fate. “Wilfred Calder� has no idea who he is or what he’s about, and he’s been running from Fate for as long as he can remember. When Wil flees after witnessing a murder, it’s Dallin’s job to pursue him. Along the way, he’s pulled into a maelstrom of ancient myth, fanatical religion, and the delicate politics of a shaky truce between two perpetually warring countries—all of which rests on the slender shoulders of the man he knows is not Wilfred Calder.
Even Dallin’s success proves a hollow victory. Wil is vengeful, rebellious, and lethal, and his tale of magic and betrayal rocks the carefully constructed foundations of Dallin’s world. Suspicious and only half believing, Dallin must question not only his own integrity and his half-forgotten past, but the morality and motives of everyone around him—including those who hold his own country’s fate in their hands.
Second Edition.
First Edition published by Torquere/Prizm, 2010.
Cover Artist: Anne Cain
332 pages, Paperback
First published December 15, 2010
19 people are currently reading
1770 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 12, 2019
Solid high fantasy with mystery elements. I'll mention first, for my many fantasy-fan friends who aren't to this, that although I see a lot of people shelving this as romance or m/m it really is not, although I can't speak to the later books in the series. One of the main characters is gay, but there is no sex or romance and his sexuality is only a plot point insofar as other characters are uncomfortable with it.
I'd recommend this for fantasy readers who like traditional genre tropes done in an interesting way. We have our military vet turned constable protagonist, who is assigned to investigate a crime which unexpectedly turns out to have larger repercussions for diplomatic relations between two at-truce countries. We have our special magic character who is Chosen by the gods. We have our evil power-hungry villain who hasn't gotten much page time yet, and a murderous religious cult. Also horses, knives, really long walks, and people wishing very much for baths and hot food. Some banter, some angst, some inns.
If, on the other hand, you were hoping for m/m romance but also like this type of fantasy, I recommend as one where the relationship is significant to the plot.
Musical accompaniment recommended by author:
The End Begins by Tantric
Bright Nights, Dark Days by Cavo
The Other Side by Godsmack
In Your Honor by Foo Fighters
Celtic Fiddle Festival by Burke, Cunningham & LeMaitre
Feels Like Home by Bonnie Raitt
I'd recommend this for fantasy readers who like traditional genre tropes done in an interesting way. We have our military vet turned constable protagonist, who is assigned to investigate a crime which unexpectedly turns out to have larger repercussions for diplomatic relations between two at-truce countries. We have our special magic character who is Chosen by the gods. We have our evil power-hungry villain who hasn't gotten much page time yet, and a murderous religious cult. Also horses, knives, really long walks, and people wishing very much for baths and hot food. Some banter, some angst, some inns.
If, on the other hand, you were hoping for m/m romance but also like this type of fantasy, I recommend as one where the relationship is significant to the plot.
Musical accompaniment recommended by author:
The End Begins by Tantric
Bright Nights, Dark Days by Cavo
The Other Side by Godsmack
In Your Honor by Foo Fighters
Celtic Fiddle Festival by Burke, Cunningham & LeMaitre
Feels Like Home by Bonnie Raitt
November 27, 2011
This book grabbed my attention and held it from the opening page. It's not a romance...yet. It is an intriguing fantasy about two men who are caught up in magical and political violence and intrigue, and are finding that neither they nor the world around them are what they had previously believed. Both men are enormously sympathetic and complex characters, and their interactions have a fascination somewhere between a love story and a train wreck. This book is in my top favorites of the year. Might be right at the top if it were a self-contained story. But be warned, this book is in no way complete in and of itself. At the end, the adventure is just beginning for these men together. I went right out and bought Book 2, and I'm relieved that Book 3 is not too far down the road. If you hate cliffhangers, wait to read this until the third comes out. But then, if you enjoy fantasy, run don't walk to your book vendor and give this a try.
May 21, 2013
I just knew that Carole Cummings would not disappoint me after falling in love with her Wolf's Own series (my favourite ever series). This is epic fantasy at its best, the world building is fascinating and the writing flows beautifully.
It's one of those books that you really need to take your time mulling over and absorb everything you're being told and almost try to work out what's going on yourself. The relationship between the main characters Wil and Dallin builds up slowly, nothing is rushed and I'm looking forward to starting . I would definitely recommend.
It's one of those books that you really need to take your time mulling over and absorb everything you're being told and almost try to work out what's going on yourself. The relationship between the main characters Wil and Dallin builds up slowly, nothing is rushed and I'm looking forward to starting . I would definitely recommend.
November 7, 2018
Since this isn't a stand-alone novel, it feels a bit arbitrary to give it a rating. But I'm going to go with 3.5 stars for now, rounded up, because it feels like a solid set-up for the rest of the trilogy.
The world-building is fine, but what really shines here are the characters. Brayden in particular kept surprising me -- apparently I had some fantasy-character stereotypes in my head that I expected him to fall in line with, but he just kept refusing to conform to them.
I wouldn't normally have picked this up -- I'm tired of epic fantasy -- but it was only 99 cents. I'm glad I did, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the story.
The world-building is fine, but what really shines here are the characters. Brayden in particular kept surprising me -- apparently I had some fantasy-character stereotypes in my head that I expected him to fall in line with, but he just kept refusing to conform to them.
I wouldn't normally have picked this up -- I'm tired of epic fantasy -- but it was only 99 cents. I'm glad I did, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the story.
November 23, 2011
"You fight shackles like a wild animal, but you accept a cage like you belong in one."
Ok, seriously, my love is like whoa for this book! I want to sleep with this at night. I want other writers to read this book and take notes.
In this book the fantasy, world-building, and the characterizations come first. The author takes the time AND the care to make sure each of these has multiple, detailed layers that unfold for the reader in the best way possible. For someone concerned about the complexity of the world-building...don't. There is no info dump. The reader slowly discovers parts of this world and mystery so that the action, tension, and your love for these characters increases with each page. This book has heart down to its corners.
I fell in love with Wil and Dallin, and they don't even really have a romance in this book. However, I fell in love with them. So many detailed moments that breathed life into them, and you felt all of their emotions naturally. The argument over the apples, footprints, and horses might be the cutest thing ever.
I have so many questions about the mystery of the Aisling, and its been awhile where I've had this kind of excitement over a "world." Even without the m/m romance, I would still read this book and the series. If this isn't normally your genre, give it a shot anyways. Your mind will rock!
Ok, seriously, my love is like whoa for this book! I want to sleep with this at night. I want other writers to read this book and take notes.
In this book the fantasy, world-building, and the characterizations come first. The author takes the time AND the care to make sure each of these has multiple, detailed layers that unfold for the reader in the best way possible. For someone concerned about the complexity of the world-building...don't. There is no info dump. The reader slowly discovers parts of this world and mystery so that the action, tension, and your love for these characters increases with each page. This book has heart down to its corners.
I fell in love with Wil and Dallin, and they don't even really have a romance in this book. However, I fell in love with them. So many detailed moments that breathed life into them, and you felt all of their emotions naturally. The argument over the apples, footprints, and horses might be the cutest thing ever.
I have so many questions about the mystery of the Aisling, and its been awhile where I've had this kind of excitement over a "world." Even without the m/m romance, I would still read this book and the series. If this isn't normally your genre, give it a shot anyways. Your mind will rock!
November 15, 2012
An excellent read set in a fascinating world where characterization is the focal point. Two men were brought together by fate in a world of magic, murder, politics, and religion. With each chapter, the world slowly unfolds while the characters become more and more complex. The author gives us one puzzle-piece at a time and I was constantly wondering where the next one would fit. I loved how this kept me on my toes.
Wil and Dallin totally captivated me. Wil is a tormented soul who just wants to stop being afraid. He's on the run and carrying a heavy burden full of rage and agony. At times, he exhibits almost child-like qualities but he has strength and pride. I just adore him! Then there's Dallin, who's honorable, strong, and methodical. For him, everything has to be rational and logical. They come together in this world where they both have to learn to trust and where they begin to question their beliefs and their fate.
The author did a wonderful job describing the world. It was vivid and alive. The only issue I had was that some parts of the book moved too slow for my liking.
This was my first book by Ms. Cummings but it will not be my last.
January 22, 2013
I'm astonished.
I don't even know what to say.
Okay, so this is fantasy, and it doesn't even have any romance yet! And I LOVED it!
The characters - so realistic, both of them, and incredibly lovable.
The writing - mind-boggling; basically, CC manages to express an exact, precise emotion in a range of a hundred different ones with three words put together in such a seemingly careless way that I can't figure out how she does it.
The mythology/religion - not very developed yet, but definitely intriguing. A Mother and Father on approximately the same plan of importance? Sign me up.
The baddies - honestly, they scare me.
Just read it. Even if you have doubts (like I did), or you don't really get along with fantasy (like I do), or you're thirsty for romance (...yep, that's right), just go read it.
I don't even know what to say.
Okay, so this is fantasy, and it doesn't even have any romance yet! And I LOVED it!
The characters - so realistic, both of them, and incredibly lovable.
The writing - mind-boggling; basically, CC manages to express an exact, precise emotion in a range of a hundred different ones with three words put together in such a seemingly careless way that I can't figure out how she does it.
The mythology/religion - not very developed yet, but definitely intriguing. A Mother and Father on approximately the same plan of importance? Sign me up.
The baddies - honestly, they scare me.
Just read it. Even if you have doubts (like I did), or you don't really get along with fantasy (like I do), or you're thirsty for romance (...yep, that's right), just go read it.
January 24, 2011
The Mother created the Aisling to Dream the threads of man and the Father created the Guardian to guard against his power. Or did he? How much influence do those around us, as well as those who govern over us have to shape and mold our beliefs? And when we’re cultivated to their ideal, how does that war against our own sense of self and reason? These are the questions posed in this novel about warring political factions, the two people they are warring over, and the beliefs that they hold so sacred they are no longer belief but fact. On a closer level, this is a novel about what happens to the psyche of a man who has been chained to his fate. Conversely, it is also about the healing powers of love, trust, and a deep sense of self.
The major focus of this story is the world building, and it grows very organically. There is no info-dump. In fact, I believe that the opposite is true here. We are forced to put the pieces of this story together ourselves � forced to keep up with the story, as what one believes to be a fairy tale and another considers fact merge together with a cold war (that is fast becoming a real one) and a spark of what will soon become a revolution. We aren’t even sure of who our two characters are until two-thirds of the story has passed. This was done very well and it added a whole new ingredient to the dialogue between Wil and Dallin, which was the best part of the story. Because we don’t know exactly who our main characters really are (and both of them don’t know everything about who they are either), their dialogue becomes the most imporant clue to the reader. It shows us who they are at their core before we are told what their roles are, what others have ordained for them. By the time we figure out what those roles are, we already know what kind of people they both are, what they want and need, what they will do for freedom and what they will sacrifice, and just how steely their strength is to survive...
For the full review, visit .
The major focus of this story is the world building, and it grows very organically. There is no info-dump. In fact, I believe that the opposite is true here. We are forced to put the pieces of this story together ourselves � forced to keep up with the story, as what one believes to be a fairy tale and another considers fact merge together with a cold war (that is fast becoming a real one) and a spark of what will soon become a revolution. We aren’t even sure of who our two characters are until two-thirds of the story has passed. This was done very well and it added a whole new ingredient to the dialogue between Wil and Dallin, which was the best part of the story. Because we don’t know exactly who our main characters really are (and both of them don’t know everything about who they are either), their dialogue becomes the most imporant clue to the reader. It shows us who they are at their core before we are told what their roles are, what others have ordained for them. By the time we figure out what those roles are, we already know what kind of people they both are, what they want and need, what they will do for freedom and what they will sacrifice, and just how steely their strength is to survive...
For the full review, visit .
November 15, 2011
Hands Down, No Contest: The Best M/M Book I Have Read Thus Far
When Carole Cummings wrote this book she got everything right. Everything.
The world building in Aisling is complex, well thought out, fresh, multi-layered and brilliant. When the book starts there is no info-dump, so as you read, all of the intricacies of the world Carole Cummings created are slowly revealed. The reader has to pay close attention. The fact that I had to piece things together as I read kept me fully engaged. Magic, religion, shamans, tension between countries, murder and so much more.
The plot is revealed just as slowly and carefully as the ins and outs of the world in which the story is set. At no point was this book predictable. Every scene revealed a million new things that had me rethinking where the book was going to take me and I was thrilled with each revelation. There was no aspect of the story that was pointless. Every action and event was important. There were no dropped plot threads and no holes that I could see. Flawless.
Another thing that amazed me was the author's skills when it comes characterization. To say that these character's are complex and well-rounded is an understatement. Wil and Dallin are characters that I would read twenty books about. The secondary characters were vivid and even they did not seem two-dimensional.
Carole Cumming's writing style was what pulled this whole book together. She makes gorgeous word choices and those words flow beautifully. She all but paints a picture of the character's surroundings while conveying their emotions and thoughts skillfully. Her writing is pristine.
This book is, as I stated in the review heading, the best M/M book I have read to date. There are books I love and that I re-read a million times but this book is in a class all by itself. Completely untouchable. This is a book that everyone should pick up and read as soon as they can. I recommend.
When Carole Cummings wrote this book she got everything right. Everything.
The world building in Aisling is complex, well thought out, fresh, multi-layered and brilliant. When the book starts there is no info-dump, so as you read, all of the intricacies of the world Carole Cummings created are slowly revealed. The reader has to pay close attention. The fact that I had to piece things together as I read kept me fully engaged. Magic, religion, shamans, tension between countries, murder and so much more.
The plot is revealed just as slowly and carefully as the ins and outs of the world in which the story is set. At no point was this book predictable. Every scene revealed a million new things that had me rethinking where the book was going to take me and I was thrilled with each revelation. There was no aspect of the story that was pointless. Every action and event was important. There were no dropped plot threads and no holes that I could see. Flawless.
Another thing that amazed me was the author's skills when it comes characterization. To say that these character's are complex and well-rounded is an understatement. Wil and Dallin are characters that I would read twenty books about. The secondary characters were vivid and even they did not seem two-dimensional.
Carole Cumming's writing style was what pulled this whole book together. She makes gorgeous word choices and those words flow beautifully. She all but paints a picture of the character's surroundings while conveying their emotions and thoughts skillfully. Her writing is pristine.
This book is, as I stated in the review heading, the best M/M book I have read to date. There are books I love and that I re-read a million times but this book is in a class all by itself. Completely untouchable. This is a book that everyone should pick up and read as soon as they can. I recommend.
March 8, 2017
YES a rant for all text-to-speech readers, how on earth do you get away with having all the page #No and footer of book read out MID SENTENCE Excerpt to make my point: QUOTE He kept his voice flat, but he couldn't keep his jaw from Aisling Book One:Guardian -5 tightening. He'd thought this was finished. . ... and have no way to turn it off for339 fucking pages.
This is a great book but. . .
NOT TEXT-TO-SPEECH FRIENDLY AT ALL AND THE AUDIOBOOK'S PRODUCTION QUALITY WAS SO BAD I RETURNED IT, THE NARRATION WAS FINE BUT IT SOUNDED LIKE THEY WERE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE GRAND CANYON
This is a great book but. . .
NOT TEXT-TO-SPEECH FRIENDLY AT ALL AND THE AUDIOBOOK'S PRODUCTION QUALITY WAS SO BAD I RETURNED IT, THE NARRATION WAS FINE BUT IT SOUNDED LIKE THEY WERE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE GRAND CANYON
January 31, 2013
Exceptionally well done fantasy. The world is interesting, complex, and well built. Must read the rest of the series now. It's nice to see if there is going to be any romance it's going to be very slow moving these characters are in no position for any of that right now.
September 20, 2014
I can’t find the appeal of this book. It’s boring, heavy going and there is no plot! Only Wil the whole time “poor guy but he has pride, poor guy but he takes a bath, poor guy but he has apples…�. I didn’t pay this book to read Wil’s dear diary!
I don’t understand why this is m/m, or romance, or fantasy, or a novel� Seriously, what genre is this book? None I recognize, I’m afraid.
Everyone loved it! Is it really the same book?
So, no, thanks, Carole Cummings...
January 10, 2018
This is one bandwagon I'm thrilled I hopped on! Yes, it's that good. Read the reviews. Extremely engaging, unpredictable, addictive, smart story with such vivid characters. Both Dallin and Wil are fantastic, but Wil the "vicious little shit who never bloody quit" is a tiny bit ahead at this point. I didn't expect this level of banter and humor along with everything else. Very well rounded and balanced.
On to Book 2!
On to Book 2!
January 3, 2012
This is a story about fate and how you fight it and how you have to accept surrender sometimes, but also how you can still be yourself against the machinations of destiny.
In his dreams Wil weaves the lives and destinies of people and countries. He is used and abused, oppressed, but he also never gives in to defeat. His self is hidden behind the masks he wears to engage the world, but his core, his pride remains unreachable to the greedy hands of the people who want a piece of him.
Dallin is a man of the law, smart, strong and honorable. He tries to understand and handle the situation he finds himself in with his reason, until the tales that seem just the superstitious recount of zealous people take a concrete spinning.
While Wil in a certain way has an easier task, because he only has to fight for his life and freedom, Dallin has to face a moral dilemma: on one hand there is the office he is been appoint to and the future of his country, because he has been ordered to deliver Wil to his enemies; on the other hand there is ONE defenceless man, who is both his destined ward and the one who shaped his life in a tragic way. There is something else blossoming between them, but it's still nameless and it still stems from admiration and also trust.
The two men struggle to assert their wills against fate out of the need to survive or out of sense of duty, dealing with phylosophical themes in a western-fantasy setting. Mind blowing!
In his dreams Wil weaves the lives and destinies of people and countries. He is used and abused, oppressed, but he also never gives in to defeat. His self is hidden behind the masks he wears to engage the world, but his core, his pride remains unreachable to the greedy hands of the people who want a piece of him.
Dallin is a man of the law, smart, strong and honorable. He tries to understand and handle the situation he finds himself in with his reason, until the tales that seem just the superstitious recount of zealous people take a concrete spinning.
While Wil in a certain way has an easier task, because he only has to fight for his life and freedom, Dallin has to face a moral dilemma: on one hand there is the office he is been appoint to and the future of his country, because he has been ordered to deliver Wil to his enemies; on the other hand there is ONE defenceless man, who is both his destined ward and the one who shaped his life in a tragic way. There is something else blossoming between them, but it's still nameless and it still stems from admiration and also trust.
The two men struggle to assert their wills against fate out of the need to survive or out of sense of duty, dealing with phylosophical themes in a western-fantasy setting. Mind blowing!
Want to read
December 21, 2014FREE today at Torquere Press!! 12/21/14
August 6, 2016
What?! I need the next book, now!
No romance, yet, but an awesome story. I loved the characters and the world building.
No romance, yet, but an awesome story. I loved the characters and the world building.
October 26, 2015
2011 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
June 16, 2011
I won this book this book at Reviews by Jessewave and immediately started reading it, since I was in the mood for some fantasy. Carole Cummings was an author new to me and now I can safely say this isn't going to be the last of her books I'm going to read.
Ms. Cummings had decided on the road less traveled by fantasy writers - she throws you in the middle of the story and in the middle of her world and you have to read and learn about it throughout the book. There is no info-dump here, which is much appreciated, but that also means that the reader has to work a little bit and gather the informations in order to have the complete picture (as complete as the first book in a trilogy can offer). I suspect some readers will not be fond of this approach, but I am - I like the writers who treat their readers with respect. The world is familiar enough, as other reviewers already mentioned, and new enough to make reader both comfortable and interested.
The strength of the book lies in the characterization. The two protagonists - Wil and Dallin - are very well rounded, but they also have a lot of potential for development, since it's clear from just this book that Ms. Cummings is planning on drastically changing their perspectives on everything they thought they new - several times.
Wil is a wonderful character and he should be envy of any writer who ever attempted to write a tortured soul. And tortured he is. He suffered through the unspeakable things and the fact that he wasn't broken speaks a lot about his strength. There is a core of steel beneath his battered mind as well as enormous capacity for joy that he was mainly denied of. He is all about survival and recapturing his freedom and he is not afraid of doing anything to achieve this (including seduction and murder), although he also has a peculiar moral compass. It was a joy to get to know him alongside Dallin and I'm looking forward to reading about his growth. Once he comes to terms with who he is - he will be the force of nature. Dallin is someone you would want on your side when you find yourself between rock and a hard place. He is a former soldier and conscientious officer who thinks he has a solid grip on the world and all the things in it. Let's just say he will have to let go of that particular illusion around Wil fairly quickly. The way he learns how to deal with Wil was both heartbreaking and entertaining (some of the Lessons and how he learned them were hilarious). His inner goodness just shines through and it's obvious by the end of the book that Wil is starting to be affected by it too.
The narration flows naturally, the dialogue is natural and authentic for the world the author has chosen (as much as I can tell, English is not my first language). Also, I have a tiny observation: often the female writers who write men choose to use profanities to underline the "man-speak". Ms. Cummings used them sparsely and always to underline some extreme situation or feeling. Well done.
Yes, there is no sex and no romantic relationship to speak of. There are hints of possibility and, while I usually like the sex in my novels, that was a good decision on author's part. There simply isn't enough trust, enough peace, enough time for sex to come naturally for these two characters at this point. Give them time. ^^
The only reason I'm giving this book 4 stars (well, it's more like 4.5) is that the story (and world building) isn't finished. If the quality of story and writing remains the same in two following sequels (March and July are just around the corner, thank god!), I have no doubt the trilogy will deserve all five stars. Thank you, Ms. Cummings, for a great read.
Ms. Cummings had decided on the road less traveled by fantasy writers - she throws you in the middle of the story and in the middle of her world and you have to read and learn about it throughout the book. There is no info-dump here, which is much appreciated, but that also means that the reader has to work a little bit and gather the informations in order to have the complete picture (as complete as the first book in a trilogy can offer). I suspect some readers will not be fond of this approach, but I am - I like the writers who treat their readers with respect. The world is familiar enough, as other reviewers already mentioned, and new enough to make reader both comfortable and interested.
The strength of the book lies in the characterization. The two protagonists - Wil and Dallin - are very well rounded, but they also have a lot of potential for development, since it's clear from just this book that Ms. Cummings is planning on drastically changing their perspectives on everything they thought they new - several times.
Wil is a wonderful character and he should be envy of any writer who ever attempted to write a tortured soul. And tortured he is. He suffered through the unspeakable things and the fact that he wasn't broken speaks a lot about his strength. There is a core of steel beneath his battered mind as well as enormous capacity for joy that he was mainly denied of. He is all about survival and recapturing his freedom and he is not afraid of doing anything to achieve this (including seduction and murder), although he also has a peculiar moral compass. It was a joy to get to know him alongside Dallin and I'm looking forward to reading about his growth. Once he comes to terms with who he is - he will be the force of nature. Dallin is someone you would want on your side when you find yourself between rock and a hard place. He is a former soldier and conscientious officer who thinks he has a solid grip on the world and all the things in it. Let's just say he will have to let go of that particular illusion around Wil fairly quickly. The way he learns how to deal with Wil was both heartbreaking and entertaining (some of the Lessons and how he learned them were hilarious). His inner goodness just shines through and it's obvious by the end of the book that Wil is starting to be affected by it too.
The narration flows naturally, the dialogue is natural and authentic for the world the author has chosen (as much as I can tell, English is not my first language). Also, I have a tiny observation: often the female writers who write men choose to use profanities to underline the "man-speak". Ms. Cummings used them sparsely and always to underline some extreme situation or feeling. Well done.
Yes, there is no sex and no romantic relationship to speak of. There are hints of possibility and, while I usually like the sex in my novels, that was a good decision on author's part. There simply isn't enough trust, enough peace, enough time for sex to come naturally for these two characters at this point. Give them time. ^^
The only reason I'm giving this book 4 stars (well, it's more like 4.5) is that the story (and world building) isn't finished. If the quality of story and writing remains the same in two following sequels (March and July are just around the corner, thank god!), I have no doubt the trilogy will deserve all five stars. Thank you, Ms. Cummings, for a great read.
December 14, 2013
Guardian is the beginning of this trilogy series well crafted by Carole Cummings. It is a fantasy world where there are opposing political factions. It is a world where there is a Father, a Mother, and the gifts bestowed to one another as the Guardian and the Aisling. There is magic. There are dreams and guns. There are battles - violence is no stranger to this world. And there is the beginnings of a very intriguing plot and romance.
Constable Dallin Brayden was only twelve years old when he escaped the city of Lind and lived in Putnam for approximately 25 years (if I did my math right, he is approximately 37 years old). He spent ten of those years at the Constabulary making friends and creating a reputation for being very good at what he does. He just never expected his meeting with a murder witness by the name of Wil Calder would be the start of something beyond his normal imagination.
The story is told in third person POV, rotating between Dallin and Wil with each chapter. Carole Cummings created two very well developed main characters: Dallin, the pragmatic and calm man. Wil, the survivor who runs through his rainbow of emotions from one sentence to the next. Both characters have history, and we understand their personality based on their life experiences. No one has had it easy in the past, and my heart goes out to them both.
The story is riddled with bits and pieces of information. It is easy to be confused with the political landscape at first, but things begin to make sense midway into the book. The plot itself involving the Aisling and the Guardian is something that readers are slowly brought to understanding with as well. Having read up to the second book in the past, I can say that the author has taken great cares to construct an intricate plot that only begins with this first book.
While the tag for this book states it is M/M romance, I will caution readers that no romance actually occurs in this first book. Instead, trust is established between Dallin and Wil - and yes, it takes the whole book for it to happen. Everything about this book is a slow burn.
So if you are looking for a fantasy series with an intriguing and heavy plot (no fluff here), lots of feelings, and characters who are trying to find their "Calling," then give this one a shot. Guardian is definitely a solid read.
Constable Dallin Brayden was only twelve years old when he escaped the city of Lind and lived in Putnam for approximately 25 years (if I did my math right, he is approximately 37 years old). He spent ten of those years at the Constabulary making friends and creating a reputation for being very good at what he does. He just never expected his meeting with a murder witness by the name of Wil Calder would be the start of something beyond his normal imagination.
The story is told in third person POV, rotating between Dallin and Wil with each chapter. Carole Cummings created two very well developed main characters: Dallin, the pragmatic and calm man. Wil, the survivor who runs through his rainbow of emotions from one sentence to the next. Both characters have history, and we understand their personality based on their life experiences. No one has had it easy in the past, and my heart goes out to them both.
The story is riddled with bits and pieces of information. It is easy to be confused with the political landscape at first, but things begin to make sense midway into the book. The plot itself involving the Aisling and the Guardian is something that readers are slowly brought to understanding with as well. Having read up to the second book in the past, I can say that the author has taken great cares to construct an intricate plot that only begins with this first book.
While the tag for this book states it is M/M romance, I will caution readers that no romance actually occurs in this first book. Instead, trust is established between Dallin and Wil - and yes, it takes the whole book for it to happen. Everything about this book is a slow burn.
So if you are looking for a fantasy series with an intriguing and heavy plot (no fluff here), lots of feelings, and characters who are trying to find their "Calling," then give this one a shot. Guardian is definitely a solid read.
December 29, 2010
I spent my Christmas weekend devouring this book, enjoying everything about the story, and wanting to get my hands on books two and three of this trilogy well before the publisher will allow.
The world-building is full and complete -- a definite flavor of eighteenth century England, but with some important differences, particularly of religion, for here, magic works, even if its practice is severely regulated and greatly frowned upon, and the deities reach out their hands and touch the mortals. It's a heavy touch, not always welcome, and prone to be contaminated with the venal desires of man, and that's how the story unfolds. How can the words of scriptures, however fervently believed, become one's reality? It's one answer for Wil and for Dallin, and a very different answer for Siofra, a shadowy figure in this book but sure to become a major player as matters unfold, and his followers.
By the time I finished, I felt I knew Wil and Dallin very well -- characterization is another strong point. Watching both characters have to do 180o turns from their initial stances kept me turning pages, as did the action; I bled for both men, and for the innocents in their wake, as they had to fight through to a place of refuge where they could stop even for a moment to assess their new realities.
The story is M/M in that both protagonists are clearly gay, but there is no sexual interaction between them, though there is an undercurrent of interest. This book is probably shelved as YA for that reason, but it's YA the way Harry Potter is YA -- pants on, epic story, and it should have a wide appeal across age groups for the quality of the story-telling. Read it for the fantasy (don't expect griffins, unicorns, or sex), soul-searching, and adventure, and put it into the hands of any thoughtful fantasy reader.
The world-building is full and complete -- a definite flavor of eighteenth century England, but with some important differences, particularly of religion, for here, magic works, even if its practice is severely regulated and greatly frowned upon, and the deities reach out their hands and touch the mortals. It's a heavy touch, not always welcome, and prone to be contaminated with the venal desires of man, and that's how the story unfolds. How can the words of scriptures, however fervently believed, become one's reality? It's one answer for Wil and for Dallin, and a very different answer for Siofra, a shadowy figure in this book but sure to become a major player as matters unfold, and his followers.
By the time I finished, I felt I knew Wil and Dallin very well -- characterization is another strong point. Watching both characters have to do 180o turns from their initial stances kept me turning pages, as did the action; I bled for both men, and for the innocents in their wake, as they had to fight through to a place of refuge where they could stop even for a moment to assess their new realities.
The story is M/M in that both protagonists are clearly gay, but there is no sexual interaction between them, though there is an undercurrent of interest. This book is probably shelved as YA for that reason, but it's YA the way Harry Potter is YA -- pants on, epic story, and it should have a wide appeal across age groups for the quality of the story-telling. Read it for the fantasy (don't expect griffins, unicorns, or sex), soul-searching, and adventure, and put it into the hands of any thoughtful fantasy reader.
April 30, 2011
As a teen I'd often wait until the family had gone to bed, then I'd switch on my bedside lamp, reading late into the night. If I'd been recently busted for being up after lights out, I'd hide under the covers with a favorite read and a flashlight. The worlds created in the pages of books transported me to another place and time. Sweeping epics carried me away, and before I knew it, I'd stayed up much too late. Again.
Fast forward a few years. Okay, a lot of years. The words are viewed through bifocal lenses now, but the same all-consuming urge to stay up all night and read has overtaken me again. I've become engulfed in a world so foreign, and yet so familiar, that has pulled me in completely. I couldn't stop reading, and had to force myself to put this book down or else be late for work, thanks to the incredibly talented Carole Cummings.
Aisling Book One is a young adult novel that introduces us to two very opposite men. Wil, living a life of fear and yet so determined to be free of those who'd enslave him; Dallin, whose stoic, analytical mind must bend to accept what he's previously believed to be myth. Thanks to very descriptive writing and a perfectly paced plot, I found myself in the shoes of both men, living in their world, and came to care for these two unique individuals and the allies they meet along the way. (I'd also like to hurt anyone who dares look at poor Wil with ill intent!) And while the book ends with our heroes yet to form a bond, the lead-up is riveting.
Fabulous world-building and characterizations make this a must read. I cannot recommend it highly enough. I envy this author's way with words.
Want to get away from it all? Take a mental vacation with Aisling. This is book one of what I believe will be a trilogy. Ms. Cummings, please say the sequel will publish soon!
Fast forward a few years. Okay, a lot of years. The words are viewed through bifocal lenses now, but the same all-consuming urge to stay up all night and read has overtaken me again. I've become engulfed in a world so foreign, and yet so familiar, that has pulled me in completely. I couldn't stop reading, and had to force myself to put this book down or else be late for work, thanks to the incredibly talented Carole Cummings.
Aisling Book One is a young adult novel that introduces us to two very opposite men. Wil, living a life of fear and yet so determined to be free of those who'd enslave him; Dallin, whose stoic, analytical mind must bend to accept what he's previously believed to be myth. Thanks to very descriptive writing and a perfectly paced plot, I found myself in the shoes of both men, living in their world, and came to care for these two unique individuals and the allies they meet along the way. (I'd also like to hurt anyone who dares look at poor Wil with ill intent!) And while the book ends with our heroes yet to form a bond, the lead-up is riveting.
Fabulous world-building and characterizations make this a must read. I cannot recommend it highly enough. I envy this author's way with words.
Want to get away from it all? Take a mental vacation with Aisling. This is book one of what I believe will be a trilogy. Ms. Cummings, please say the sequel will publish soon!
January 9, 2011
Excellent. Wonderful writing, unbelievably good world building and such well drawn, complex characters that continue to reveal themselves with every chapter. This book is just the beginning of Wil and Dallin's journey and I am starting the next book immediately. There is no romance and no sex in this book and, for a self proclaimed perv, I am surprised to say that I didn't miss it. It's too soon in the story and I applaud Ms. Cummings for not throwing it in 'just 'cuz'. After reading a story of this quality, it only serves to emphasize the amount of cookie cutter stories that are so prevalent in this genre.
December 3, 2011
Re-read time!!! Man do I love this book.
Just finished this book for the second time. It is even more brilliant this time through. I have more knowledge, more understanding and Wil and Dallin are even that more amazing. I had forgotten about Dallin's Wil lessons. Too funny!!!
Just finished this book for the second time. It is even more brilliant this time through. I have more knowledge, more understanding and Wil and Dallin are even that more amazing. I had forgotten about Dallin's Wil lessons. Too funny!!!
June 10, 2011
Although the story is firmly grounded in the fantasy genre, complete with a little bit of magic and some glimpses of a deeper mythology, it almost reads like an old-school story of frontier justice, given new life through the elements (if not the setting) of a more contemporary police procedural. It’s a mingling of genres that could be problematic, but which actually works very well. The first time we move from a contemporary good cop/bad cop interrogation, to an old fashioned western bar brawl, to a contest of magical wills and religious prophecies, it’s jarring, but in a way that’s fresh and unique.
One of the things I loved about the book was the sense of mystery that Carole allows to pervade the story, feeding us tidbits of information through the characters, rather than overwhelming us with long-winded asides. As each new element of the fantasy genre falls into place, and is better explored, the story becomes more and more interesting.
The characters here are wonderful as well, although some readers may be put off by the lack of a traditional hero/villain dynamic. For me, that just added to the mystery. Wil and Dallin are great characters who immediately engage our emotions, but it’s not entirely clear on what side of the dynamic they’re fall. Depending on how the story develops, they’re have the depth and complexity to potentially be either hero or villain.
Very much a tortured soul, Wil is a character who not only elicits sympathy, but who also aggravates us almost as much as he does Dallin. As for Dallin, he’s partially the typical warrior-enforcer, but he’s also an outsider � for multiple reasons. The two play off each other very well, creating a tense relationship rides a fine edge, but smartly avoids devolving into the cliché of a mismatched ‘buddy� partnership. As readers, we naturally long to see their adversarial nature turn to friendship, but I appreciated the fact that Carole avoided the standard plot device of a crisis even to suddenly resolve the situation.
It’s definitely clear that both men are gay, further fuelling our desire to see them come together, but it’s handled very tactfully. Being gay is a part of their characters, but not a driving element of the plot, and not a vehicle for titillation. Personally, I would love to see something more intimate develop between them in further instalments, but the story definitely doesn’t rely on that as a tease or a hook.
A wholly fulfilling story, with a lot of potential, I definitely can’t wait to see where Carole takes us next.
One of the things I loved about the book was the sense of mystery that Carole allows to pervade the story, feeding us tidbits of information through the characters, rather than overwhelming us with long-winded asides. As each new element of the fantasy genre falls into place, and is better explored, the story becomes more and more interesting.
The characters here are wonderful as well, although some readers may be put off by the lack of a traditional hero/villain dynamic. For me, that just added to the mystery. Wil and Dallin are great characters who immediately engage our emotions, but it’s not entirely clear on what side of the dynamic they’re fall. Depending on how the story develops, they’re have the depth and complexity to potentially be either hero or villain.
Very much a tortured soul, Wil is a character who not only elicits sympathy, but who also aggravates us almost as much as he does Dallin. As for Dallin, he’s partially the typical warrior-enforcer, but he’s also an outsider � for multiple reasons. The two play off each other very well, creating a tense relationship rides a fine edge, but smartly avoids devolving into the cliché of a mismatched ‘buddy� partnership. As readers, we naturally long to see their adversarial nature turn to friendship, but I appreciated the fact that Carole avoided the standard plot device of a crisis even to suddenly resolve the situation.
It’s definitely clear that both men are gay, further fuelling our desire to see them come together, but it’s handled very tactfully. Being gay is a part of their characters, but not a driving element of the plot, and not a vehicle for titillation. Personally, I would love to see something more intimate develop between them in further instalments, but the story definitely doesn’t rely on that as a tease or a hook.
A wholly fulfilling story, with a lot of potential, I definitely can’t wait to see where Carole takes us next.
January 5, 2012
I am glad I read this novel based on reader reviews rather than my own interest. This may have a young adult tag, but it is truly an excellent fantasy novel, with the barest hint of M/M romance (although this may change to more than a hint or two in the remaining novels)
Cummings has built a complex world for the two MC's - Wil Calder, aka Aisling or the Chosen, and Constable Brayden Dallin, who may also have another identity. The reader enters this complex world with basically no background with which to understand it. It soon becomes obvious that this is a deliberate ploy by the author as Dallin too, is thrust into a world he never suspected existed within his own life and as Dallin finds some form of understanding, so too does the reader. This is a voyage of self discovery and growth for these two men as they come to terms with the rapid changes within thrust upon them.
It is a brutal, harsh world, with only a hint or two of a gentle side, and much of the novel remains the same. In fact, just when things look like they are slightly improving, the novel abruptly ends. Quite honestly, I'd be really annoyed by the ending I'd I didn't know that I had Book 2 waiting in my TBR pile...
Cummings has built a complex world for the two MC's - Wil Calder, aka Aisling or the Chosen, and Constable Brayden Dallin, who may also have another identity. The reader enters this complex world with basically no background with which to understand it. It soon becomes obvious that this is a deliberate ploy by the author as Dallin too, is thrust into a world he never suspected existed within his own life and as Dallin finds some form of understanding, so too does the reader. This is a voyage of self discovery and growth for these two men as they come to terms with the rapid changes within thrust upon them.
It is a brutal, harsh world, with only a hint or two of a gentle side, and much of the novel remains the same. In fact, just when things look like they are slightly improving, the novel abruptly ends. Quite honestly, I'd be really annoyed by the ending I'd I didn't know that I had Book 2 waiting in my TBR pile...
June 30, 2012
This book is almost impossible to evaluate on its own, because it's so obviously building up to another. By itself, I would say that it toes the line of obfuscation, but does so gently and beautifully, so that you yearn to follow the threads being woven to see where they lead. There is a small amount of internal resolution, but it gets swept away in favor of the bigger picture being revealed. And unfortunately, you just barely start to see the shape of things emerging from the weave when it runs into an almost painfully abrupt ending.
There's a lot of skill and craft in the writing here, but this is not an easy book to dive into. I honestly wasn't sure how to rate it, so I started on the second book and put the review for this one on the back-burner. After completing Dream (Aisling II), I can't possibly give this one any less than 4 stars, because I see how the groundwork subtly laid here starts to come to sweet fruition.
There's a lot of skill and craft in the writing here, but this is not an easy book to dive into. I honestly wasn't sure how to rate it, so I started on the second book and put the review for this one on the back-burner. After completing Dream (Aisling II), I can't possibly give this one any less than 4 stars, because I see how the groundwork subtly laid here starts to come to sweet fruition.
November 19, 2012
This is another good example of Cummings' intensely character-focused style. If you like character and angst, you'll like her books. Cummings also does a fine job of world building, but she really shines with the character stuff.
I'm not as engaged with the plot of this series as with the Wolf's-Own books, but this is still quite a good read. Note, though, that this is truly serial in nature, and not just the first novel in a series. What I mean is that you will NOT get a complete story arc within the first installment. Think of it as a fragment or installment rather than as a novel in and of itself, and you'll do fine.
Oh, also -- for those looking for romance -- there isn't any at all in this first part of the series. If that's what you're looking for, you'll have to look elsewhere!
I'm not as engaged with the plot of this series as with the Wolf's-Own books, but this is still quite a good read. Note, though, that this is truly serial in nature, and not just the first novel in a series. What I mean is that you will NOT get a complete story arc within the first installment. Think of it as a fragment or installment rather than as a novel in and of itself, and you'll do fine.
Oh, also -- for those looking for romance -- there isn't any at all in this first part of the series. If that's what you're looking for, you'll have to look elsewhere!
January 5, 2013
Just finished this one. The wiring was beautiful, and I couldn't put it down, but there was a problem, a very big one. The book was more then 300 pages long, but the story could have been told with a 100 pages. So much space went on the two main characters, their feelings and thoughts, it was insane.
A good editor would have told the author to focus on the story and the plot. I really feel like what i've read is a short story that was way too long. Many scenes just went on and on, and nothing really happened.
I will read the next one, but I'm pretty sure that all three books should have been one book, with solid characters and a solid plot. It was done before, you know.
A good editor would have told the author to focus on the story and the plot. I really feel like what i've read is a short story that was way too long. Many scenes just went on and on, and nothing really happened.
I will read the next one, but I'm pretty sure that all three books should have been one book, with solid characters and a solid plot. It was done before, you know.
July 29, 2015
Hell yes!
Really wonderful adventure--filled with vivid world building, fully fleshed out characters, horror and insanity, and the beginnings of hope and understanding.
Dallin's honesty, practicality, and solidness; Wil's distrust, brutal past, and paradoxically rebellious resignation...I adore them both and cannot wait to get more of them. May the Mother and Father protect Wil, especially, from here on out.
And anther great thing: I don't have any idea where this series is going to go!
They really don't get all that much better than this. Read this, you won't regret a thing. I'm moving to the sequel asap!
Really wonderful adventure--filled with vivid world building, fully fleshed out characters, horror and insanity, and the beginnings of hope and understanding.
Dallin's honesty, practicality, and solidness; Wil's distrust, brutal past, and paradoxically rebellious resignation...I adore them both and cannot wait to get more of them. May the Mother and Father protect Wil, especially, from here on out.
And anther great thing: I don't have any idea where this series is going to go!
They really don't get all that much better than this. Read this, you won't regret a thing. I'm moving to the sequel asap!
July 27, 2011
Wow. Good, good book. Intense, strong characters and plot, and a deep and stable setting. It's true the book opens without any handholds for the reader. You jump in and swim and acclimate as you go. I'd say I had a good hold of things by about twenty or so pages in. But even when I wasn't sure what was going on, I was completely engaged in the characters enough to keep on going to find out what happens to them.
Excellent read. I am very, very happy this is a series. Although, that cliffhanger at the end is a doozy. Whee!
Excellent read. I am very, very happy this is a series. Although, that cliffhanger at the end is a doozy. Whee!
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