Phendar of the Avila Freya’s Bower

REVIEWED BY:

SCORE:

Author: Doreen Perrine
Publisher: Freya’s Bower

REVIEW:

Phen has left her home and security to plant seeds by request of her mother. Sewing the seeds could save her people from extinction. A deadly curse has beset the land. While selling trinkets in the market, Phen meets with the Crystal Princess, Gledise, who takes Phen under her wing. Phen becomes Gledise’s companion, and they both grow close.

However, Gledise’s parents aren’t pleased about the union of the two women and try and forbid the princess from being with Phen. True love reigns, and Gledise refuses to be apart from Phen. Phen is sent to the dungeons, but Gledise sets her free, and the two young women move away.

The seeds don’t seem to be able to grow anywhere, and time is running out for the cursed people. Living in a huge bubble, Glendise and Phen reside in a tower with other bubble dwellers. Unfortunately, something paramount to Gledise’s survival is stolen. Can Phen retrieve it and at the same time get the seeds to grow and save their people?

Apart from the above plot being unique and interesting, Phendar of the Avila is a touching story that showcases the love between two women. Not just sexually, but in friendship. The genuine love Phen has for Gledise shines through, and I didn’t want the book to end. I loved the voice/prose and really rooted for Gledise’s life force to be found and for the seed to grow. I wanted acceptance for Phen and Gledise as a couple, for their love is a tangible, wonderful thing.

I loved the premise, loved the word use, and loved the whole book. Very highly recommended.