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Black Rose Sorceress #1
The Rose Mark
Sherra
We belong to the King--those of us with the black roses tattooed on our left wrist, directly over our pulse. As if every beat of our hearts reminds us that we are not our own.
All the women with the fire burning within them are culled, tattooed and taken to the warriors, to provide more energy. Energy that the warriors will then use to defeat the barbarians from the ocean of sand. Women with black roses on their wrists are emptied of their power by those warriors, who care not that they die a shrunken husk.
In the King's library, The Book of the Rose says to honor the tattooed women. More than anything, I want to spit on its pages.
As for running--there is one thing worse than having a black rose on your wrist. That is for the enemy to find you and see the black rose on your wrist. Your death will be slow and excruciating at their hands...
We belong to the King--those of us with the black roses tattooed on our left wrist, directly over our pulse. As if every beat of our hearts reminds us that we are not our own.
All the women with the fire burning within them are culled, tattooed and taken to the warriors, to provide more energy. Energy that the warriors will then use to defeat the barbarians from the ocean of sand. Women with black roses on their wrists are emptied of their power by those warriors, who care not that they die a shrunken husk.
In the King's library, The Book of the Rose says to honor the tattooed women. More than anything, I want to spit on its pages.
As for running--there is one thing worse than having a black rose on your wrist. That is for the enemy to find you and see the black rose on your wrist. Your death will be slow and excruciating at their hands...
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2017
About the author
Connie Suttle
77 books804 followersConnie Suttle lives in Oklahoma with her husband and three cats.
Connie holds an MFA in Fine Art (film production and animation) and taught courses at the university level before moving on to bookstore management. Nowadays, if she isn't writing or editing, she's dreaming up her next book.
Connie holds an MFA in Fine Art (film production and animation) and taught courses at the university level before moving on to bookstore management. Nowadays, if she isn't writing or editing, she's dreaming up her next book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
June 16, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
It’s been years since I’ve read something by Connie Suttle which is a real shame because she’s an incredibly talented author, and THE ROSE MARK reminded me of that fact. Neither teething baby nor attention deprived husband could tear me away from this book! I shudder to think that I almost passed on it in favour of staying true to my existing TBR pile. The blurb comes across as a sexist, male dominated society with a heroine who’s screwed from birth, and yes, that’s how Sherra’s tale begins, but the 400 pages that follow turn tragedy into triumph.
This novel is written in alternating POVs, mostly rotating between the protagonist and her warrior, Kerok, with the occasional deviation whenever another character needs to weigh-in. All the chapters are clearly labelled, so you always know who’s speaking. I loved the way that this title was penned because the male / female perspectives are very different, and Suttle’s narrative for both was well executed which is a rare find because try as they may, most authors have difficulty with the opposite sex’s thought processes.
The world-building was rich, and intricate without the need for a lengthy lexicon like so many other Fantasy universes, although there is a brief list of the cast and places at the end for clarity’s sake. I really enjoyed how we got to follow Sherra’s journey from trainee to escort; instead of skipping straight to the trenches, readers are taken through their paces right alongside the Black Roses. It allowed for a more thorough understanding of the magic and techniques used, and of the driving forces behind the war.
Sherra is an amazing character, and her relationship with Kerok is very complex. The hero’s loyalties are split between the army, the crown, Grae and his escort, so he’s walking a paper-thin line. The protagonist has more-or-less accepted her fate, but thanks to a bout of ingenuity and a little outside help, her destiny is no longer a foregone conclusion. Foreshadowing and whispers are peppered throughout the story, and the last pages confirmed a few of my suspicions. My family better buckle-down as there’s another binge read in my future!
THE ROSE MARK’s deceptively simple cover hides a truly spectacular piece of fiction.
It’s been years since I’ve read something by Connie Suttle which is a real shame because she’s an incredibly talented author, and THE ROSE MARK reminded me of that fact. Neither teething baby nor attention deprived husband could tear me away from this book! I shudder to think that I almost passed on it in favour of staying true to my existing TBR pile. The blurb comes across as a sexist, male dominated society with a heroine who’s screwed from birth, and yes, that’s how Sherra’s tale begins, but the 400 pages that follow turn tragedy into triumph.
This novel is written in alternating POVs, mostly rotating between the protagonist and her warrior, Kerok, with the occasional deviation whenever another character needs to weigh-in. All the chapters are clearly labelled, so you always know who’s speaking. I loved the way that this title was penned because the male / female perspectives are very different, and Suttle’s narrative for both was well executed which is a rare find because try as they may, most authors have difficulty with the opposite sex’s thought processes.
The world-building was rich, and intricate without the need for a lengthy lexicon like so many other Fantasy universes, although there is a brief list of the cast and places at the end for clarity’s sake. I really enjoyed how we got to follow Sherra’s journey from trainee to escort; instead of skipping straight to the trenches, readers are taken through their paces right alongside the Black Roses. It allowed for a more thorough understanding of the magic and techniques used, and of the driving forces behind the war.
Sherra is an amazing character, and her relationship with Kerok is very complex. The hero’s loyalties are split between the army, the crown, Grae and his escort, so he’s walking a paper-thin line. The protagonist has more-or-less accepted her fate, but thanks to a bout of ingenuity and a little outside help, her destiny is no longer a foregone conclusion. Foreshadowing and whispers are peppered throughout the story, and the last pages confirmed a few of my suspicions. My family better buckle-down as there’s another binge read in my future!
THE ROSE MARK’s deceptively simple cover hides a truly spectacular piece of fiction.
May 24, 2017
Really loving the first book. The book is written from different characters points of view which is not only interesting but allows you to get a lot more information without it getting boring love it.
February 14, 2020
Connie Suttle is my favourite author and I eagerly await each of her new releases. I also had a little trepidation about this one as it is a completely new universe and cast of characters and she has been working on it for some time while completing and releasing other books. Needless worry- this book is simply brilliant and perhaps her best work to date.
April 5, 2017
coming soon...
July 31, 2018
KU
Connie Suttle is one of my favourite authors, and this intense fanatsy novel does not fail to maintain that reputation. I find that this cover doesn’t do the series any favours. It in no way conveys the colour of the characters within, nor the grittiness of the storyline.
The background for this tale centers around the military, wartime, and the Crown. All great factors for a compelling piece of fantasy writing. The novel and the tale within keep a steady pace rather than a fast one, including a complex heroine, surrounded by people of depth and character, together with an world created through innovation and magic, to package up a wonderful fantasy series.
Connie Suttle is one of my favourite authors, and this intense fanatsy novel does not fail to maintain that reputation. I find that this cover doesn’t do the series any favours. It in no way conveys the colour of the characters within, nor the grittiness of the storyline.
The background for this tale centers around the military, wartime, and the Crown. All great factors for a compelling piece of fantasy writing. The novel and the tale within keep a steady pace rather than a fast one, including a complex heroine, surrounded by people of depth and character, together with an world created through innovation and magic, to package up a wonderful fantasy series.
April 5, 2017
Same Review Also Posted In My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
I tried really hard to love this book but slow paced plots are always a major turnoff for me in the fantasy books and the romance in this book seemed dull enough to enjoy it. This is actually my first book from the author and with all the positive reviews, I hoped it's going to be a great read but sadly, I was left unsatisfied. The concept of this book is very interesting but the slow plot development has ruined my interest and enjoyability.
In sherra's world all the girls who are born with the fire power are sent to the king to become his black rose that provides energy to his warriors who are fighting against the barbarians, the enemies who wants to destroy people with powers like them. Sherra was marked with a rose tattoo when she was young and now her time to serve the king has finally come. Most of the black rose always dies in the midst of the battlefield after their energy runs out and sherra hates all the unfairness. At the training academy, Sherra meets the other black roses and makes some friends. Sherra is not ready to accept her fate, She wants to learn more about the black rose and all her answers are found in the book of black rose which is held in the king's library. She brings a change and a new hope for their people but not everyone is excited about it.
Sherra is a strong female protagonist, She's fearless, stubborn, intelligent and compassionate girl who's not afraid to stand up for herself. Kerok is a strong and complex character who always wears hard edged personality because of his profession as a commander but he also has soft and vulnerable side to him that he doesn't show to everyone. Both Sherra and Kerok are flawed characters who are attracted to each other. I was a bit disappointed with the romance in this book because there's barely any romance in it. The relationship between Sherra and Kerok seemed more like a friendly relationship. Their chemistry lacked all the sparks and angst. The secondary characters are okay-ish but they didn't interest me much so I don't feel the urge to describe them.
The plot is decent enough to enjoy but I really hated the slow pacing. Most of the story is focused more on the training and less on the action. From training to eating at the mess hall routine has eventually made me loss interest in this book. There are also few things that didn't make sense to me and I was wondering why isn't everyone curious about Sherra's background at the beginning when she showed strong powers with no training. I was also disappointed with the no appearance of barbarians in this book because I've been eagerly waiting for their entrance from the start. Normally, It always takes me less than three days to finish a book but this one took me five days to complete. The book is mostly told in Sherra and Kerok's POV but in between there are also other characters perspectives. I liked the writing style and I have no issues with it. I loved the world building and also the magical elements, I wish there was more of it.
Overall, it was an okay read but nothing exciting! I would've loved it if it wasn't such a slow read with not much action. The book finally ended with an interesting end but I'm not sure I would continue the series.
I tried really hard to love this book but slow paced plots are always a major turnoff for me in the fantasy books and the romance in this book seemed dull enough to enjoy it. This is actually my first book from the author and with all the positive reviews, I hoped it's going to be a great read but sadly, I was left unsatisfied. The concept of this book is very interesting but the slow plot development has ruined my interest and enjoyability.
In sherra's world all the girls who are born with the fire power are sent to the king to become his black rose that provides energy to his warriors who are fighting against the barbarians, the enemies who wants to destroy people with powers like them. Sherra was marked with a rose tattoo when she was young and now her time to serve the king has finally come. Most of the black rose always dies in the midst of the battlefield after their energy runs out and sherra hates all the unfairness. At the training academy, Sherra meets the other black roses and makes some friends. Sherra is not ready to accept her fate, She wants to learn more about the black rose and all her answers are found in the book of black rose which is held in the king's library. She brings a change and a new hope for their people but not everyone is excited about it.
Sherra is a strong female protagonist, She's fearless, stubborn, intelligent and compassionate girl who's not afraid to stand up for herself. Kerok is a strong and complex character who always wears hard edged personality because of his profession as a commander but he also has soft and vulnerable side to him that he doesn't show to everyone. Both Sherra and Kerok are flawed characters who are attracted to each other. I was a bit disappointed with the romance in this book because there's barely any romance in it. The relationship between Sherra and Kerok seemed more like a friendly relationship. Their chemistry lacked all the sparks and angst. The secondary characters are okay-ish but they didn't interest me much so I don't feel the urge to describe them.
The plot is decent enough to enjoy but I really hated the slow pacing. Most of the story is focused more on the training and less on the action. From training to eating at the mess hall routine has eventually made me loss interest in this book. There are also few things that didn't make sense to me and I was wondering why isn't everyone curious about Sherra's background at the beginning when she showed strong powers with no training. I was also disappointed with the no appearance of barbarians in this book because I've been eagerly waiting for their entrance from the start. Normally, It always takes me less than three days to finish a book but this one took me five days to complete. The book is mostly told in Sherra and Kerok's POV but in between there are also other characters perspectives. I liked the writing style and I have no issues with it. I loved the world building and also the magical elements, I wish there was more of it.
Overall, it was an okay read but nothing exciting! I would've loved it if it wasn't such a slow read with not much action. The book finally ended with an interesting end but I'm not sure I would continue the series.
February 27, 2017
3.5 stars
I've read a number of Connie Suttle books and enjoyed them. Somewhere in the third or fourth interconnected series, though, I grew tired of the too-similar characters (how many petite, blond, abused heroines can there be), the inconsistencies, and the too-convoluted relationships and gave up. This, however, is the first book in a new series in a new universe, so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm mostly glad I did.
Suttle has a knack for injecting a lot of emotional drama into her books, and this was no exception. I was drawn in and liked the main character (who, thank goodness, was not a petite blond who had suffered terrible physical abuse) and felt her angst during the story. Like in her other series, the main female character obviously is going to be far more powerful than anyone expects, but that's one of the wish-fulfillment aspects I really don't mind in these stories, especially since the power doesn't come without some grief. Unfortunately, the book also had some of Suttle's usual shortcomings including sloppy inconsistencies (if Thorn was 67 years old but looked in his 20's because of his power, why did his older brother who had no power not look like an old man?), plot incongruities, and some pretty cardboard type bad guys that crop up in most of her stories.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the story and, figuring I won't get lost trying to remember legions of characters from previous books, I'll look for the next one in this series.
I've read a number of Connie Suttle books and enjoyed them. Somewhere in the third or fourth interconnected series, though, I grew tired of the too-similar characters (how many petite, blond, abused heroines can there be), the inconsistencies, and the too-convoluted relationships and gave up. This, however, is the first book in a new series in a new universe, so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm mostly glad I did.
Suttle has a knack for injecting a lot of emotional drama into her books, and this was no exception. I was drawn in and liked the main character (who, thank goodness, was not a petite blond who had suffered terrible physical abuse) and felt her angst during the story. Like in her other series, the main female character obviously is going to be far more powerful than anyone expects, but that's one of the wish-fulfillment aspects I really don't mind in these stories, especially since the power doesn't come without some grief. Unfortunately, the book also had some of Suttle's usual shortcomings including sloppy inconsistencies (if Thorn was 67 years old but looked in his 20's because of his power, why did his older brother who had no power not look like an old man?), plot incongruities, and some pretty cardboard type bad guys that crop up in most of her stories.
Nevertheless, I enjoyed the story and, figuring I won't get lost trying to remember legions of characters from previous books, I'll look for the next one in this series.
March 20, 2017
Ah freaking amazing!!!!
If I could give this book a million stars I would. It has been a very long time that I have enjoyed a book so much. The characters were so well developed, the story line e and world building done perfectly. Each character had flaws and issues and it just makes them that much more real! I can't say enough about this books. I desperately waiting for the second to make it's appearance.
If I could give this book a million stars I would. It has been a very long time that I have enjoyed a book so much. The characters were so well developed, the story line e and world building done perfectly. Each character had flaws and issues and it just makes them that much more real! I can't say enough about this books. I desperately waiting for the second to make it's appearance.
July 9, 2018
I bought this on a whim and very glad I did. Not having read much fantasy I tend to by pass it. Very glad I didn't. Cant wait to jump into book two
October 2, 2017
I am a huge fan of Connie Suttle she has such a unique writing style that just plays on your heartstrings and pulls you in to her worlds. This debut of a new series did not disappoint, it was amazing with action and emotion that kept me listening in to the dead of night. I couldn't stop until It was finished. When I woke up the next morning I immediately went in search of the next book in the series.
March 21, 2017
Amazing series beginning!
Drew me right in! Story line and plot are amazing! Characters are so real! Waiting for next in series on tenderhooks
Drew me right in! Story line and plot are amazing! Characters are so real! Waiting for next in series on tenderhooks
March 12, 2017
5 STARS
Such an awesome book. I loved the idea and that Sherra (like all of Connie Suttle's leading ladies) is such a strong character. She is the perfect fit for not only Kerok but for leading all the roses and warriors in this war.
**This book ends in leaving you begging for more and in a critical condition called a few of us know as a book hangover. Unfortunately, while you can ease this condition with other books the only real remedy is reading Black Rose Sorceress #2 which is not yet available. At least we will all be in the same boat together.
***I will say anyone suffering from this should check out other books from this author. They are also favorites of mine and many others suffering with you.
Such an awesome book. I loved the idea and that Sherra (like all of Connie Suttle's leading ladies) is such a strong character. She is the perfect fit for not only Kerok but for leading all the roses and warriors in this war.
**This book ends in leaving you begging for more and in a critical condition called a few of us know as a book hangover. Unfortunately, while you can ease this condition with other books the only real remedy is reading Black Rose Sorceress #2 which is not yet available. At least we will all be in the same boat together.
***I will say anyone suffering from this should check out other books from this author. They are also favorites of mine and many others suffering with you.
March 13, 2017
What another fantastic book and new series from Connie! As with all her books, I was pulled in from the beginning and left breathless at the end and wanting more!!
March 7, 2017
Absolutely stunning
I couldn't put this book down. CS has done it again! A different world of dreams, of life struggles, laughter, tears, winners and losers. I can't wait for the next book. I have read every word Connie has written and it just keeps getting better and better. Way to go!!!
I couldn't put this book down. CS has done it again! A different world of dreams, of life struggles, laughter, tears, winners and losers. I can't wait for the next book. I have read every word Connie has written and it just keeps getting better and better. Way to go!!!
March 4, 2017
Great new series!
I can see now that I will be as addicted to this series as I am to all of Connie's others. It has some elements of the books surrounding Lissa and her family. I also see the underlying message of how hate of an enemy destroys you. Excellent read and I cannot wait for the next one!
I can see now that I will be as addicted to this series as I am to all of Connie's others. It has some elements of the books surrounding Lissa and her family. I also see the underlying message of how hate of an enemy destroys you. Excellent read and I cannot wait for the next one!
March 7, 2017
Great book!
This book was great! It's a new, interesting book that keeps you captivated as soon as you start it. Can't wait for the next book!
This book was great! It's a new, interesting book that keeps you captivated as soon as you start it. Can't wait for the next book!
March 1, 2017
Exhilarating and phenomenal!
Dark tale of system depending on powerful women forced to support warriors with their abilities and energy. One girl set out to change it and in the brilliant way she effected deep changes in the warfare, self protection, the way others saw the black rose girls. Fantastic war scenes, imaginative fights, twisted betrayals and a touch of romance. Absolutely awesome!
Dark tale of system depending on powerful women forced to support warriors with their abilities and energy. One girl set out to change it and in the brilliant way she effected deep changes in the warfare, self protection, the way others saw the black rose girls. Fantastic war scenes, imaginative fights, twisted betrayals and a touch of romance. Absolutely awesome!
February 26, 2017
The Rose Mark: Black Rose Sorceress, Book 1
I have just one question, when does the next book come out?! I loved this book and can't wait to see what happens next! I have been a fan of Mrs. Suttle's books for years now and she has yet to disappoint me! Thank you Mrs. Suttle for being your brilliant self!
I have just one question, when does the next book come out?! I loved this book and can't wait to see what happens next! I have been a fan of Mrs. Suttle's books for years now and she has yet to disappoint me! Thank you Mrs. Suttle for being your brilliant self!
February 27, 2017
Wow
First amazing book in a new series. I am looking forward to the next. The world building is great, along with the character development.
First amazing book in a new series. I am looking forward to the next. The world building is great, along with the character development.
July 2, 2017
Great start to new series!
Loved this book a new series, new characters and new place! Love all Connie's books on my buy list as soon as a new one comes out.
Loved this book a new series, new characters and new place! Love all Connie's books on my buy list as soon as a new one comes out.
February 25, 2017
Started it yesterday, wow!
Couldn't put it down until I finished it. Excellent read and can't wait till next book!!! Way to go Connie!
Couldn't put it down until I finished it. Excellent read and can't wait till next book!!! Way to go Connie!
May 27, 2017
Many of this author’s books begin with an abused girl and usually involves them living through this abuse until they finally manage to convince the male oppressors to accept her or they are carried off by some higher being. Unfortunately I’m beginning to find this storyline a bit depressing.
The problem with this book, is that apart from the heroine I dislike virtually everybody else, including Kerok, whom I presume is meant to be the hero. I really despised him, he supports the slavery and without him Sherra would have been more likely to rebel and fight back. Even worse in some ways, is they all fight for a Kingdom that isn’t worth saving. Therefore the only reason to keep reading is to see if Sherra can find a way out of her certain death and to get some revenge for the women already sacrificed.
Unfortunately although its quite interesting watching how Sherra deals with adversity there was no fighting back against this sick society, instead she begins to step into line and conforms to whatever is asked of her, including falling for the hero.
The usual saving grace in these novels is that the oppressing men are made to suffer for their abuse, however in this book they get away virtually scot-free.
The problem with this book, is that apart from the heroine I dislike virtually everybody else, including Kerok, whom I presume is meant to be the hero. I really despised him, he supports the slavery and without him Sherra would have been more likely to rebel and fight back. Even worse in some ways, is they all fight for a Kingdom that isn’t worth saving. Therefore the only reason to keep reading is to see if Sherra can find a way out of her certain death and to get some revenge for the women already sacrificed.
Unfortunately although its quite interesting watching how Sherra deals with adversity there was no fighting back against this sick society, instead she begins to step into line and conforms to whatever is asked of her, including falling for the hero.
The usual saving grace in these novels is that the oppressing men are made to suffer for their abuse, however in this book they get away virtually scot-free.
June 22, 2019
I feel like I am repeating myself every time I need to write a review for a Connie Suttle book.
This is going to be an excellent series. I'm pretty sure that this will also be standalone or not connected to Lissa's world. Another great set of characters, an interesting but still mysterious story, magic, mayhem and possibly love. Sherra is a strong, intelligent and caring young lady and I am more than happy to know her better.
This is going to be an excellent series. I'm pretty sure that this will also be standalone or not connected to Lissa's world. Another great set of characters, an interesting but still mysterious story, magic, mayhem and possibly love. Sherra is a strong, intelligent and caring young lady and I am more than happy to know her better.
August 14, 2023
Better Than Expected
I was prepared not to like this book very much, but as it was recommended by someone I typically agree with, I gave it a shot. I'm not going to leave spoilers, so let's just say that I didn't get the immediate "fix" for the big issues....but I see the conflict resolution going in a good direction. I will definitely read the next book.
I was prepared not to like this book very much, but as it was recommended by someone I typically agree with, I gave it a shot. I'm not going to leave spoilers, so let's just say that I didn't get the immediate "fix" for the big issues....but I see the conflict resolution going in a good direction. I will definitely read the next book.
July 26, 2019
Brilliant. Exceptional. Outstanding. Another winner from a master story teller.
I will be pre purchasing book 2
I will be pre purchasing book 2
May 3, 2020
Loved! Loved this book!! I didn't want the book to end, and when it did I was actually mad at myself for reading it so fast! Desperately waiting for book 2!
June 20, 2017
Ms Suttle has again drawn me into an unforgettable adventure with an extremely strong and capable heroine.
What I liked: This new series, Black Rose Sorceress, from Connie Suttle showcases her imagination, her unconventional storylines, and intriguing characters. I never, ever thought I would be a Sci-Fi reader but Ms Suttle’s books have introduced me to a whole new world of possibilities.
The Rose Mark is the beginning of a new series and from what I can tell is not connected to any of her other works which is good and bad. If you love the characters in her previous books and liked their appearance in other series, you’ll be disappointed in not seeing them in The Rose Mark. BUT, a whole new list of characters in a different world more than make up for the familiarity of previous people.
Imagine from the time you are born, you know you’re not going to have much of a life and most of it will be painful and short. Our heroine, Sherra, laments having been marked with the Rose Tattoo and her projected service to the King’s warrior army. At the appointed age, Sherra is moved for her training. That’s another whole ugly chapter about being rose marked. Sherra has ideas to improve the training and prolong the lives of the rose marked but “politics” rears its ugly head. She does connect with some of the other trainees and makes friends but again they are not the favorites of the trainers. All they can look forward to is providing power to the warriors until they are drained dry.
One of the warriors takes an interest in some of Sherra's ideas which just makes her life harder with the trainers. But this warrior is just not anyone and Sherra soon finds out some of the real truths of the war that seems endless.
What is especially poignant in The Rose Mark is the way Ms Suttle incorporates some of today’s issues into her storyline. Not only in the archaic laws but the political power grabs between so many of the characters. It provides relevance to the storyline.
Sherra is a bit different than previous Suttle heroines. She’s strong but isn’t as accepting of what she’s dealing with in her story. She selfless in most cases but isn’t afraid to speak her mind even when expecting some type of punishment.
I could go on and on but this first book really grabbed and held my attention. Yes, I stayed up too late and felt like I was more than a bystander in the story.
What I didn’t Like: I can absolutely think of nothing not even the e-book pricing. If you’re a Kindle Unlimited member, it’s a free read but even at $4.99 for the e-book of your very own, it’s a bargain. Kudos to Ms Suttle for keeping the reader’s book allowance in mind!
Absolutely Highly Recommended!!
What I liked: This new series, Black Rose Sorceress, from Connie Suttle showcases her imagination, her unconventional storylines, and intriguing characters. I never, ever thought I would be a Sci-Fi reader but Ms Suttle’s books have introduced me to a whole new world of possibilities.
The Rose Mark is the beginning of a new series and from what I can tell is not connected to any of her other works which is good and bad. If you love the characters in her previous books and liked their appearance in other series, you’ll be disappointed in not seeing them in The Rose Mark. BUT, a whole new list of characters in a different world more than make up for the familiarity of previous people.
Imagine from the time you are born, you know you’re not going to have much of a life and most of it will be painful and short. Our heroine, Sherra, laments having been marked with the Rose Tattoo and her projected service to the King’s warrior army. At the appointed age, Sherra is moved for her training. That’s another whole ugly chapter about being rose marked. Sherra has ideas to improve the training and prolong the lives of the rose marked but “politics” rears its ugly head. She does connect with some of the other trainees and makes friends but again they are not the favorites of the trainers. All they can look forward to is providing power to the warriors until they are drained dry.
One of the warriors takes an interest in some of Sherra's ideas which just makes her life harder with the trainers. But this warrior is just not anyone and Sherra soon finds out some of the real truths of the war that seems endless.
What is especially poignant in The Rose Mark is the way Ms Suttle incorporates some of today’s issues into her storyline. Not only in the archaic laws but the political power grabs between so many of the characters. It provides relevance to the storyline.
Sherra is a bit different than previous Suttle heroines. She’s strong but isn’t as accepting of what she’s dealing with in her story. She selfless in most cases but isn’t afraid to speak her mind even when expecting some type of punishment.
I could go on and on but this first book really grabbed and held my attention. Yes, I stayed up too late and felt like I was more than a bystander in the story.
What I didn’t Like: I can absolutely think of nothing not even the e-book pricing. If you’re a Kindle Unlimited member, it’s a free read but even at $4.99 for the e-book of your very own, it’s a bargain. Kudos to Ms Suttle for keeping the reader’s book allowance in mind!
Absolutely Highly Recommended!!
December 21, 2017
Ahhh I missed CS crack writing. I bought pretty much every book up till the 4th First Ordinance book and um 2nd RD one…. I couldn’t afford to keep buying them to keep up so I had them saved for when I got a chance to get KU. Well, I finally did and low and behold everything after that and before this series isn’t on KU any longer.
Massive sad face here~
I was going to pass on even reading this series since it didn’t seem to be related to the other series in some way. I’m glad I didn’t however because new world, new characters, same crack writing. Well, minus the few things that annoyed me with her earlier books. Now, I’ve read the ones I have more than two times, sometimes at least four with the earliest books. Not sure yet where I will be when I get more of these books read so far … I couldn’t put them down once I started.
One thing I love about her books is everything is simple and not at the same time. The betrayals, screw-ups, and missed chances stuff still happened and it was nice to delve into her familiar writing style again. I’m almost tempted to start a re-read again, but I know once I start with Blood Wager I won’t come up for air until I finish the rest and I have to eat, shower, and socialize in the near future so I stopped myself.
I found this new world interesting, parts of it are eerily familiar and some parts seem—at least to me—to be echoes of stuff going on in the world right now.
I liked it, not sure if I love it yet, but I liked it.
Massive sad face here~
I was going to pass on even reading this series since it didn’t seem to be related to the other series in some way. I’m glad I didn’t however because new world, new characters, same crack writing. Well, minus the few things that annoyed me with her earlier books. Now, I’ve read the ones I have more than two times, sometimes at least four with the earliest books. Not sure yet where I will be when I get more of these books read so far … I couldn’t put them down once I started.
One thing I love about her books is everything is simple and not at the same time. The betrayals, screw-ups, and missed chances stuff still happened and it was nice to delve into her familiar writing style again. I’m almost tempted to start a re-read again, but I know once I start with Blood Wager I won’t come up for air until I finish the rest and I have to eat, shower, and socialize in the near future so I stopped myself.
I found this new world interesting, parts of it are eerily familiar and some parts seem—at least to me—to be echoes of stuff going on in the world right now.
I liked it, not sure if I love it yet, but I liked it.
May 8, 2017
5 Stars!
Okay so I randomly just picked this book up and decided why the hell not. From the synopsis it interested me but I really wasn't sure about it. It seemed like a book about subjugating women and just had this overall feel of something I might have to put down and not finish because I'd get too annoyed.
But it wasn't like that, not really it deff had that in it but it feels like its on a precipice of change and I just kept reading more because I wanted to find out what happens and if Sherra changes anything. The more I read the more hooked I got its awesome!! the whole power thing is interesting and how it seems like its a future very far off after some kind of nuclear war but its never said but you get that's kind of how this new world was created.
I could probably go on more but if your unsure about checking this book out I say give it a shot you might actually be surprised I know I was!
Okay so I randomly just picked this book up and decided why the hell not. From the synopsis it interested me but I really wasn't sure about it. It seemed like a book about subjugating women and just had this overall feel of something I might have to put down and not finish because I'd get too annoyed.
But it wasn't like that, not really it deff had that in it but it feels like its on a precipice of change and I just kept reading more because I wanted to find out what happens and if Sherra changes anything. The more I read the more hooked I got its awesome!! the whole power thing is interesting and how it seems like its a future very far off after some kind of nuclear war but its never said but you get that's kind of how this new world was created.
I could probably go on more but if your unsure about checking this book out I say give it a shot you might actually be surprised I know I was!
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