Birthright (The DarkGifts #1)by Willow Cross
ebook, 535 pages
Published March 2nd 2011 by Willow Cross, via Smashwords
Source: Author for blog tour
Buy the book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords
Book Description:
For one-thousand years, Druid prophecies foretold of a young witch destined to alter the fate of both human and immortal alike. This witch-turned-vampire would be capable of harnessing the supernatural abilities of both and, in a bloody rise to power, would rule with unwavering control. Unwillingly thrust into a world she never dreamed existed, Liz Markum is catapulted into an ancient war between rival vampire factions. She must choose between those she loves and the ever-present darkness attempting to devour her very soul. Only one question remains: Will Liz claim her birthright or surrender to the dark gift? One choice. One chance. Two destinies.
Review:
The moment I saw the word "Druid" in the book's description, I knew I had to read Willow Cross's Birthright. (Iron Druid Chronicles, anyone?) But though there was less about druidry and more about vampires, witches, ghosts and mythology, Birthright did not disappoint and still provided for a truly enjoyable read.
Birthright begins interestingly as the readers are immediately thrust into Liz's life while she is faced, helpless, with the enemies. It was thrilling but also confusing because it felt like I was reading from the climax/middle part, but the flashbacks that followed provided for the enlightenment as to how and why Liz got where she was - all because of a single kiss from a stranger - and soon, I was sucked into her story while she struggled to get used to her new life when already, it is being threatened by a brewing war between two different races.
I admit that Liz is not an easy character to like. At first, she comes off as whiny and I didn't like how weak she presented herself. Although this only testifies how realistic her character is, I can't help but be annoyed when she just stands behind Michael's back and be afraid. However, as the story progressed, we get to see some development in her character and she grew to be the heroine I wanted her to be. Michael, on the other hand, is the easier character to love. He is the vampire who accidentally turned Liz into one of them. He's fiercely protective, loyal, brave and... swoon-worthy. Yes, swoon-worthy, he definitely is.
There's an insta-attraction between Michael and Liz but worry not, because Birthright doesn't revolve around romance. In fact, there's very little romance involved here. Birthright focused more on action and world-building which ultimately made this for a refreshing read. There were some parts that dragged for a bit but all in all, the story is gripping and the barely-there romance will make you root all the more for the characters. The addition of side characters with quirky personalities will make you laugh, and the mystery that surrounds the story will push you to the edge of your seats. I guess it's safe to say that Willow Cross's Birthright is one of the better vampire books out there with a unique story line and characters you will learn to love toward the end.
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
Disclosure: This book was received from the author as part of Birthright Blog Tour, for free in exchange for an honest review.
About the Author
Willow Cross resides in Arkansas with her husband, two children still young enough to live at home, an enormous cat named Bitsy, and a neurotic dog named Tank. Her home has been known to host the occasional ghost and several of her friends profess to be witches. Although she dearly loves Vampires and Werewolves, they are never invited for dinner.
