Legends of the Light Bearer: The story left untold by L. M. Aldrich

Legends of the Light Bearer: The story left untold by L. M. Aldrich 

Publisher: Self-Published
Release Date: July 18, 2011
Synopsis Source: Amazon

Rating:
Characters:19/20
Plot: 20/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 97/100 or A

Synopsis: A transformational treatise on hate, greed and war, Legends of the Light Bearer: The story left untold is speculative visionary fiction that weaves politics, religion, ancient mysteries, conspiracy theories, physics, the paranormal and sci-fi into a fast-paced, spiritual thriller.

In the months leading up to 9/11, the newly elected Senator from Virginia is drawn into a nightmare that threatens her sanity, and then her life. She uncovers a secret so ancient, so complex and profound that it will take the combined efforts of a NASA scientist, a Biblical scholar, a government spy, a paleontologist and Heaven itself to unravel it. Based on ancient and forbidden scriptures, this is the story you were never meant to hear...until it is too late. Legends of the Light Bearer will challenge everything you thought was true, while offering a startling yet compelling new paradigm: Conspiracies and the supernatural are the only true reality, opposing forces in a spiritual war that uses humans as pawns on a chessboard. It is not mere happenstance that we find ourselves on the brink of extinction; economically, environmentally, or in terms of our inhumanity to one another. It is by design. And the one little thing they do not want you to know is that we have the power to defeat them.

My Thoughts: When L. M. Aldrich contacted me, requesting a book review, I was thoroughly excited. This is only the second time an author has asked me to review her book, and I am eager to share my thoughts. When I read a synopsis of Legends of the Light Bearer, my anticipation increased dramatically, for the topic of this novel is one I am greatly interested in. I hope I can harness the power of words once again as I try to justify the evident uniqueness and greatness of this book. 

Legends of the Light Bearer: The story left untold is an intriguing novel comprised of government conspiracies, possibilities of extraterrestrial existence on Earth, and religious mysteries. The combination of these aspects makes for an intricate and enthralling plot. It is evident that the extensive research required for this story was in-depth. The obvious passion L. M. Aldrich put into her work is highly commendable and shines throughout her writing.  

Texts such as the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Gnostic Scriptures provide a large segment of the story. This was one of the ingenious twists I discovered in the book; each chapter began with a line from one of many ancient scriptures. These texts included those that were omitted or excluded from the Bible. The sections that were prevalent in L. M. Aldrich's novel often hinted at possible alien presence on Earth. Indeed, I found this interesting...

I believe L. M. Aldrich was hinting at something while writing this book. A curious theme seems to crop up in every corner of the plot and encompasses the entirety of the text; salvation can only be found in the true light of God. Spiritual enlightenment cannot be found in the realm of matter and earthly pleasures, only in the omnipresent spirit of the universe where true love resides. I hope I have not completely missed the point of the novel, as that would be embarrassing. This is what I received from reading the book and what I found truly beautiful. 

Legends of the Light Bearer: The story left untold is a book I am absolutely lucky to have read. The message and theme presented is one I completely believe in. I understand that not everyone will enjoy it as much as I have, but only because they will read it with their minds and not their hearts. This is a book I envelope with admiration and adoration. I hope to learn more about this fantastic author and her future works in a possible upcoming interview. Until then my dear readers, I highly recommend you check out this intriguing, unique, and truly mind-blowing novel. :-)


Goodreads 

Aldrich, L. M. (2011) Legends of the Light Bearer: The story left untold

Fire World (Last Dragon Chronicles #6) by Chris D'Lacey

Fire World by Chris D'Lacey

Publisher: Orchard Books
Release Date: January 6, 2011
Other Titles in Series: The Fire Within (#1), Icefire (#2), Fire Star (#3), The Fire Eternal (#4), and Dark Fire (#5)

Rating:
Characters: 20/20
Plot: 20/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 20/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 99/100
Source: Library

Synopsis: David Rain, Lucy, Zanna, and the Pennykettle dragons disappeared after destroying a trace of dark fire.

In a world between Earth and Ki:mera, called Co:pernica, lives a twelve-year-old boy named David. He and his friend Rosanna spend their days in the librarium, a museum for books, with the curator, Mr. Henry, and the mysterious firebirds that roam the upper levels.

When the two friends accidentally injure one of the firebirds, David and Rosanna find themselves on a remarkable and dangerous adventure. The evil Ix have found a way to Co:pernica from their home planet and have taken over a firebird turning it to the side of darkness. The birds have a secret, though: They know about the existence of dragons.

With the help of David and Rosanna, the firebirds must reach across the universe to call on the dragons for protection. But will the dragons arrive before the Ix destroy everything?

My Thoughts: For one of the few times in my life I am actually nearly at a loss for words. Expressing the boundless veneration I have for Fire World and its author seems daunting and nearly impossible. This was one of those rare times where I actually chewed a book before swallowing it, instead of devouring it outright. I cannot pretend to do justice to this book through a review, but as I am a writer, I am compelled to make the attempt.

Fire World is the sixth and most recent installment of the Last Dragon Chronicles, ingeniously written by Chris D'Lacey. Throughout the previous books of the series, the storyline has evolved greatly, but generally retained the same overall character or essence. Amazingly, Fire World takes a drastic turn away from what readers would consider familiar about the story. Firstly, just understanding the fact that the events in the sixth installment are taking place in an alternate reality tells readers not to expect the ordinary.

Co:pernica is an alternate universe version of Earth, where all the familiar characters of the series appear – but not quite as they’ve been before. As the book starts out, readers of the previous novels may be confused. They may even say, "What the heck is going on?" I certainly had a similar reaction upon opening the book. There are several peculiarities throughout the novel that may also strike readers as odd or intriguing, including the return of Gwillana (known as Aunt Gwyneth on Co:pernica). The death of Gwillana in Dark Fire was one of the highlights of the series and to see her return, to me was an intense moment. Totally awesome, to say in modern teen words.

I have deduced that Fire World is by far the epitome of the series' greatness, even if it borders on confusing at times. For that reason only, I cannot give the series a perfect 100/100 rating. Certain readers may find the novel a bit too "out there" and too dissimilar from the remainder of the series. I, myself found it superbly fantastic and worthy of being remembered and revered throughout the ages. Chris D'Lacey is truly a genius, hands down, and an excellent writer. I hope many young readers discover this series, as it can truly change someone's perspective on fantasy.


http://www.icefire.co.uk/

D'Lacey, Chris. (2011) Fire World. United States: Orchard Books.

Dark Fire (Last Dragon Chronicles #5) by Chris D'Lacey

Title: Dark Fire
Author: Chris D'Lacey
Publisher: Orchard Books
Release Date: July 2, 2009
Other Titles in Series: The Fire Within (#1), Icefire (#2), Fire Star (#3), The Fire Eternal (#4), and Fire World (#6)


Rating:
Characters: 19/19
Plot: 20/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 20/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 99/100
Source: I own this book

Synopsis: Bestselling author David Rain was lost in the arctic for five years. Now, his daughter, Alexa, has brought him back, but a lot more has returned to Earth with him. Dragons are back as well. And with them is a hidden trace of Dark Fire, the deadliest force in the universe. Life hangs in the balance as David, Lucy, and the Pennykettle dragons must destroy the dark fire before it's discovered and used to birth a darkling. Yet David's success could come at a terrible price -- the sacrifice of a beloved dragon.

Is David's power strong enough to protect an entire world, including those he loves and all the dragons, from an evil older than time?

My Thoughts: The fifth installment of the Last Dragon Chronicles is assuredly the most action packed so far. There were quite a few events in this book left me excited, yet thoughtful. I find that Chris D'Lacey incorporates his rich stories with fantastical and sometimes mind-boggling ideas which give his overall writing style a unique twist. Indeed, Dark Fire is a perfect example of such.

Throughout the book, the plot of the series is obviously escalating, almost hinting at an extreme future climax. The excitement is almost tangible. For those who are not offended by spoilers; the most striking or riveting event for me in the entire book would be when the dragon Gawaine (yes it's spelled with an e) was wakened by Lucy. This was intriguing, especially when the dragon's urine was added to the mix. Don't let this turn you down, the inclusion of such topics actually makes the book delightfully witty.

Overall, Dark Fire has definitely been the best of The Last Dragon Chronicles so far. D'Lacey's writing just keeps getting better and better. He knows how to appeal to his audience, even while writing about confusing topics such as Dark Matter and the mechanics of physics. I also appreciate the fact that he is trying to instill a sense off environmental awareness in his readers. Truly, any fan of Chris D'Lacey will not be let down in the slightest by the stunning content just waiting to be read in Dark Fire. A fabulous author's ingenuity has expressed itself once again. I must say, bravo Chris D'Lacey!

http://www.thelastdragonchronicles.com/

D'Lacey, Chris. (2009) Dark Fire. United States: Orchard Books.

The Fire Eternal (Last Dragon Chronicles #9) by Chris D'Lacey

Title: The Fire Eternal
Author: Chris D'Lacey
Publisher: Orchard Books
Release Date: 2007
Other Titles in Series: The Fire Within (#1), Icefire (#2), Fire Star (#3), Dark Fire (#5), Fire World (#6)

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 20/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 20/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 99/100 or A+
Source: I own this book

Synopsis: Five years have passed since the mysterious disappearance of cult author, David Rain in the Arctic. Now, a number of strange events have come to pass – the Arctic ice is melting, polar bears are starving and the ghosts of Inuit souls haunt the skies. As the weather grows wilder and the icecaps melt, all eyes turn from the north to David’s daughter, Alexa. She may be the key to stopping it, but can one girl save the world from the forces of evil?

Review: The Fire Eternal is the fourth installment of the Last Dragon Chronicles. It takes place five years after the events of the previous book, Fire Star, where the protagonist David Rain mysteriously disappears. Now completely enthralled with the series, Chris D'Lacey's way with words still manages to awe me. With each new addition the series progressively evolves, both in plot and in writing talent.

As with the previous installment, the fain play a major role in the story's course of events. I am still befuddled by these mysterious beings, yet my veneration for them eclipses my confusion. I hope to someday understand just a tiny percent of the ideas that run through D'Lacey's head. It would be both intriguing and mind-boggling.

Overall, The Fire Eternal comprises the best of the series (so far). Any dragon fanatic or lover of the Last Dragon Chronicles will not be disappointed. For those who are just beginning the series, I hope you look forward to book 4, as it is quite phenomenal. The steady evolution of the series should not be lost on you. It's one of the major parts of reading it that I enjoyed.

http://www.thelastdragonchronicles.com/

D'Lacey, Chris. (2007) The Fire Eternal. United States: Orchard Books.

Fire Star (Last Dragon Chronicles #3) by Chris D'Lacey

Title: Fire Star
Author: Chris D'Lacey
Publisher: Orchard Books
Release Date: 2005
Other Titles in Series: The Fire Within (#1), Icefire (#2), The Fire Eternal (#4), Dark Fire (#5), Fire World (#6)

Rating:
Characters: 20/20
Plot: 20/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 99/100
Source: I own this book

Synopsis: A research trip to the Arctic and a contract for a new book - life can't get much better for David Rain. But as soon as David finds himself in the icy climes, he begins to write his legend of bears, dragons, and the mysterious fire star. Soon he realizes that his tale is beginning to mirror real life, and that an old enemy is on her way to meet him. Can David thwart her terrible plan? Or will his world be destroyed forever?


My Thoughts: Fire Star is the third installment of the Last Dragon Chronicles, and the plot is finally beginning to heat up. Much of the setting takes place in the arctic, where serious events are beginning to escalate. Now three books into the story, I am devouring Chris D'Lacey's writing with a passion. I am now very familiar with his writing style; the way he incorporates vast, complicated, and fascinating ideas into a a simple script that anyone could read with ease. I am in awe. ;-)

In this fascinating book, Chris describes a race of beings that reside on a different vibrational frequency than humans. They exist in the realm of Dark Matter, where thoughts are substance. They are called Fain. The Fain have mastered inter-dimensional travel and often visit us humans, influencing our thoughts and overall aiding us in achieving spiritual enlightenment. This is a thought-provoking idea. . .

The concept of a fire star (a portal from the world of fain & dragons to Earth) is extremely exciting.  It carries the same vibes as a mass revolution, shift of global consciousness, or any other momentous event. Throughout the novel, any reader will realize that tensions are beginning to increase. You can tell something high-scale is coming. When the climax finally comes to pass, readers will not be disappointed. 

http://www.thelastdragonchronicles.com/

D'Lacey, Chris. (2005) Fire Star. United States: Orchard Books.

Icefire (Last Dragon Chronicles #2) by Chris D'Lacey

Title: Icefire
Author: Chris D'Lacey
Publisher: Orchard Books
Release Date: 2003
Other Titles in Series: The Fire Within (#1), Fire Star (#3), The Fire Eternal (#4), Dark Fire (#5), Fire World (#6)

Rating:
Characters: 20/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 98/100 or A+
Source: I own this book

Synopsis: In the exciting sequel to The Fire Within, David must uncover the truth behind the mysterious clay dragons. David's quest is to discover the link between the fire of the last known dragon on earth and the icy regions of the Arctic, It's a journey that will bring him to the very heart of the legend of dragons and the mysterious, ancient secret of the icefire. . . .

Review: The stunning ingenuity of Chris D'Lacy expresses itself once again in the second installment of the Last Dragon Chronicles. In this continuation of the plot, David finally discovers the secrets of the Pennykettle Dragons, along with the uncovering of a link between polar bears and and dragons of ancient times. Icefire is indeed a step up on the maturity level compared to The Fire Within, yet the childish innocence of the first book manages to carry over as well. 

One aspect of the book that really impacted me was the description of "auma" or someones inner fire. Auma can be compared to the breath of God, or universal consciousness. It is the animating force of the Pennykettle Dragons, and it is a major part of the plot. I'm guessing (but not entirely for sure) that "auma" is the author's personalization of the Hindu and Buddhist "Aum" or "Om." It is often referred to as the sound of the Earth… Creation... The heart of existence. This idea is very inspiring. ;-)

All in all, Icefire is definitely a good read. If you enjoyed The Fire Within, you will be satisfied by it's sequel. I will give some warning though, this book seems to open the door to the more cosmic aspects of the series, which may be confusing to some. I am looking forward to reviewing the later books in the series, including the recently released Fire World. Until then, read on! ;-)

http://www.thelastdragonchronicles.com/

D'Lacey, Chris. (2003) Icefire. United States: Orchard Books. 

The Fire Within (Last Dragon Chronicles #1) by Chris D'Lacey

Title: The Fire Within
Author: Chris D'Lacey
Genre: Adventure/Fantasy
Publisher: Orchard Books
Release Date: 2001
Other Titles in Series: Icefire (#2), Fire Star (#3), The Fire Eternal (#4), Dark Fire (#5), Fire World (#6)

Rating:
Characters: 20/20
Plot: 18/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 97/100 or A
Source: I own this lovely book ;-)

Synopsis: When David moves in with Elizabeth Pennykettle and her eleven-year-old daughter, Lucy, he discovers a collection of clay dragons that come to life. David's own special dragon inspires him to write a story, which reveals the secrets behind a mystery. In order to solve the mystery and save his dragon, David must master the magic of the fire within--not only with his hands but also with his heart.

Review: The Fire Within is one of those books that might not seem very special, or as if it would be a worthwhile read, yet is actually a story that will touch the hearts of all who decide to open its cover. In my opinion, the writing style of this first installment is most suitable for someone of a younger age than my own, yet the themes expressed have the ability to capture anyone's interest. This easy read is a favorite of mine and will always remain so.

Throughout the entirety of the novel, a prevalent theme becomes evident; We all have a fire within us, and it is called creativity. This message is expressed in every essence of The Fire Within. The protagonist, David Rain, finds his fire within while discovering inspiration. David manages this only with the help of his special dragon, Gadzooks who often writes ideas down on the notepad he was kilned with. David receives inspiring ideas from Gadzooks only in his imagination. Or does he?

Again, this seemingly trivial read is actually a book I wish all of humanity had the chance of reading. The thought-provoking themes the author provides will undoubtedly effect the current generation of readers. I am quite fond of The Fire Within and the rest of the Last Dragon Chronicles as well, which I hope to be reviewing in the near future. Truly, Chris D'Lacey has constructed a beautiful, touching, and adventurous novel that will kindle the fire within each and every one of his fans, including me. ;-)   

http://www.thelastdragonchronicles.com/

D'Lacey, Chris. (2001) The Fire Within. United States: Orchard Books.