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The Ancestors Saga #1
The Forbidden
The unforgettable story of one woman’s perilous journey to save, The Forbidden.
Rebaa’s adopted tribe lies slaughtered behind her. Rebaa’s lover, Juran, lays down his life for hers and now she must use all of her cunning and extraordinary powers to survive the inhospitable wilderness alone, ensuring that Juran’s sacrifice was not in vain.
But Rebaa’s battle for survival has only just begun ...
Hunted by savage predators and more terrifying still, the nightmarish Eldrax, a murderous chieftain who will stop at nothing to possess Rebaa’s mysterious powers for his own, her very existence becomes a life or death chase in the pursuit and quest to reach the one place that surely offers salvation and a safe haven she can call home.
But what haven could possibly exist for one who bears ... The Forbidden?
Will Rebaa find her salvation, or will crushing loss, hardship and the burden of carrying The Forbidden, first destroy her from the inside out?
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 256 reviews
December 29, 2022
A decent read but not what I expected.
I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't magical cavemen.
This book centres around Rebaa, who carries a 'Forbidden' child - descendant of two different races. Chased from her home and left to wander the wilds alone, she encounters Nen, and the two women must work together if they wish to survive.
I'll be honest - I zoned out a little once Rebaa and Nen came together and it was all survival stuff. I got a bit bored. And distracted. Have any of my reviews for audiobooks ever NOT mentioned me being distracted? I am rubbish at multi-tasking. Anyhoo.
The story flows easily enough, and there are some interesting bits and pieces, but I was never hugely absorbed. I felt okay if I'd zoned out and missed things, because it never seemed like I was missing much. Plus, the magic seemed non-existent? A mention here and there, but really it was disappointingly absent.
Then there's the actual audio presentation: I really enjoyed how easily the narrator differentiated between characters, but my oh my did her Nen voice make me laugh. It was so caveman. I couldn't take it seriously.
It still had moments where I did find myself captivated, but not enough for me to be truly invested. I liked it, I followed the story easily enough and was entertained, but it wasn't anything particularly memorable.
An okay read, but nothing special.
I don't know what I was expecting, but it wasn't magical cavemen.
This book centres around Rebaa, who carries a 'Forbidden' child - descendant of two different races. Chased from her home and left to wander the wilds alone, she encounters Nen, and the two women must work together if they wish to survive.
I'll be honest - I zoned out a little once Rebaa and Nen came together and it was all survival stuff. I got a bit bored. And distracted. Have any of my reviews for audiobooks ever NOT mentioned me being distracted? I am rubbish at multi-tasking. Anyhoo.
The story flows easily enough, and there are some interesting bits and pieces, but I was never hugely absorbed. I felt okay if I'd zoned out and missed things, because it never seemed like I was missing much. Plus, the magic seemed non-existent? A mention here and there, but really it was disappointingly absent.
Then there's the actual audio presentation: I really enjoyed how easily the narrator differentiated between characters, but my oh my did her Nen voice make me laugh. It was so caveman. I couldn't take it seriously.
It still had moments where I did find myself captivated, but not enough for me to be truly invested. I liked it, I followed the story easily enough and was entertained, but it wasn't anything particularly memorable.
An okay read, but nothing special.
February 21, 2023
Actually did not finish this book, just couldn't get to a point where I cared about the characters, what they were going through and whether or not they survived. That's not to say it's a bad book, I kept waiting for the story to resonate with me and it didn't. I can count on one hand the number of books I've left unfinished but I just found myself thinking why am I continuing to read when I'm not enjoying what I'm reading...............
May 13, 2023
Happy Mother's Day!
3.5 ⭐️
As a lover of anything regarding Prehistoric Humanoids, Metaphysics, and being a mom this book checked off so many boxes for me.
The story started off with a bang and took off running. I hungrily ate up the first 60%. But the survival plotline starter to lose me towards the end.
I have to say Lori Holmes can write deeply flawed characters with agency. The urge to throw my book at the wall increased which each Eldrax chapter. He reminded me of a certain GoT character 🤭
Although the Forbidden is the first in the Ancestors Saga series I felt like it acted more like a prequel novella.
I'm very curious to see how the story progresses and look forward to further worldbuilding.
3.5 ⭐️
As a lover of anything regarding Prehistoric Humanoids, Metaphysics, and being a mom this book checked off so many boxes for me.
The story started off with a bang and took off running. I hungrily ate up the first 60%. But the survival plotline starter to lose me towards the end.
I have to say Lori Holmes can write deeply flawed characters with agency. The urge to throw my book at the wall increased which each Eldrax chapter. He reminded me of a certain GoT character 🤭
Although the Forbidden is the first in the Ancestors Saga series I felt like it acted more like a prequel novella.
I'm very curious to see how the story progresses and look forward to further worldbuilding.
February 24, 2021
Love the good the bad and the ugly.
I was unexpectedly drawn into a time when life was simpler but harder. Love is a timeless binding we all need. Relationships are often complicated but never more so than when abuse is involved.
I was unexpectedly drawn into a time when life was simpler but harder. Love is a timeless binding we all need. Relationships are often complicated but never more so than when abuse is involved.
December 18, 2020
POWER FROM SOMEONE UNKNOWN
SPOILER ALERT!!!!!
Reba was hunted and terrified!
Nen fought and lost her son to a MONSTER!
Juarn fought for Reba and Juaan!
Nyri became friends with the forbidden!
Nyri and Juaan are to be what for their tribe?
I highly recommend that you have a box of Kleenex or a bunch of waded up hanky's for this one ladies!!
SPOILER ALERT!!!!!
Reba was hunted and terrified!
Nen fought and lost her son to a MONSTER!
Juarn fought for Reba and Juaan!
Nyri became friends with the forbidden!
Nyri and Juaan are to be what for their tribe?
I highly recommend that you have a box of Kleenex or a bunch of waded up hanky's for this one ladies!!
February 28, 2021
A great read
Very creative writting she keeps you wanting more. Great imagination She makes you feel like you are there looking forward to book three.
Very creative writting she keeps you wanting more. Great imagination She makes you feel like you are there looking forward to book three.
August 10, 2022
Exquisitely creative
For an academic whose focus was this time period, this book was magical to me. It was well researched, well written and full of whimsy considering all we don't know about Prehistoric man. It's only recently it has become known that Homo Sapuen lived at the same time as Homo Erectus was dying out but the very possibility that there could yet be another branch of mankind, it's just so intriguing. Even if you has no idea about Prehistoric times, you'll identify with the heroine and her plight and be cheering on her ingenuity as she races towards her goal, all to save herself and what is called the Forbidden.
For an academic whose focus was this time period, this book was magical to me. It was well researched, well written and full of whimsy considering all we don't know about Prehistoric man. It's only recently it has become known that Homo Sapuen lived at the same time as Homo Erectus was dying out but the very possibility that there could yet be another branch of mankind, it's just so intriguing. Even if you has no idea about Prehistoric times, you'll identify with the heroine and her plight and be cheering on her ingenuity as she races towards her goal, all to save herself and what is called the Forbidden.
June 7, 2021
Finally! The psychopath gets his due BEFORE obtaining his desire! Yay, Karma!
But there is still danger ahead! I appreciated that twist in the path of this story! Some authors seem to enjoy making their heroes & heroines suffer as much as possible, but Ms. Holmes showed mercy on hers! A little anyway, for Rebaa's life's journey is far from easy! I enjoyed this story much more than I had expected to. Read it & see if perhaps you do too!
But there is still danger ahead! I appreciated that twist in the path of this story! Some authors seem to enjoy making their heroes & heroines suffer as much as possible, but Ms. Holmes showed mercy on hers! A little anyway, for Rebaa's life's journey is far from easy! I enjoyed this story much more than I had expected to. Read it & see if perhaps you do too!
February 28, 2022
Title is misleading. NOT A ROMANCE
So this book may lead into other books that lead to a romance, but there was not a drip of romance in this book. Decent story, but not what was advertised.
So this book may lead into other books that lead to a romance, but there was not a drip of romance in this book. Decent story, but not what was advertised.
August 18, 2021
This stone and sorcery novel is a strong 3. While the base plot seems carved from stone out of wherever all prehistoric fiction plots lurk being of the familiar man hunts women ilk, it has enough of a twist augmented by good writing that elevates it a step higher than its peers. First off, it really is stone and sorcery. Not all prehistoric fiction stories are. It took a while to seep in for me, but the various peoples described herein seem to be prehistoric variants of fantasy races. Our protagonists people, the people of the forest, are nick named driads by other tribes and have magic and nature reverence that feels at home with a fey people. The thalls? Harder to place, but they seem elevated in terms of strength and endurance, so maybe orcs or trolls? In any event, that and the lingering spiritual pseudo-magic was very engaging to the long time fantasy fan in me. Second, there are brief bursts of strong prose along side some good telling prose. I, for one, like that a lot. And then there is the multi-facetet struggle: our protagonist faces many problems and challenges beyond just her pursuer. Over all it was an enjoyable fast read that felt like the prologue to a larger work, which, being that this is book 1 of 5 or so, seems the case.
August 18, 2021
I really enjoyed it.
June 3, 2022
Thank you to Love Book Tours for my copy of this book in return for an honest review. All my thoughts on this book are my own.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
Genre: Fantasy
Review...
You know an author has done an amazing job on a book when there is a character you ABSOLUTELY LOVE and one that you despise 😂
I LOVE Nen 😍 she is the sweetest woman and she stole my heart from the minute she saved Rebaa 💖 but there was one character I hated so much that I actually wanted to throw my kindle away and stop reading, yep you guessed right it was indeed...... Eldrax 😂 but I didn't stop reading i NEEDED to know what happened so I gritted my teeth during his chapters 🤣
The twists in this book definitely had me wanting to read this as fast as I could 🤭 It is a well written book and well and truly worth a read 😍
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
Genre: Fantasy
Review...
You know an author has done an amazing job on a book when there is a character you ABSOLUTELY LOVE and one that you despise 😂
I LOVE Nen 😍 she is the sweetest woman and she stole my heart from the minute she saved Rebaa 💖 but there was one character I hated so much that I actually wanted to throw my kindle away and stop reading, yep you guessed right it was indeed...... Eldrax 😂 but I didn't stop reading i NEEDED to know what happened so I gritted my teeth during his chapters 🤣
The twists in this book definitely had me wanting to read this as fast as I could 🤭 It is a well written book and well and truly worth a read 😍
September 23, 2023
Fantasy
+1 Decent beginning
-1 For such primitive people, their vocabulary and multilingual excellence isn't realistic even for a fantasy.
-1 the book is built up to be equal to Clan of the Cave Bears. The only similarity is that they are each about primitive people. This book comes nowhere near being the literary piece of The Clan series.
+1 Getting past the comparison to The Clan, focusing on this book as a fantasy only, there was a decent story line.
-1 The end of this book sets up the sequel pretty well. Though I probably won't read it.
+1 Decent beginning
-1 For such primitive people, their vocabulary and multilingual excellence isn't realistic even for a fantasy.
-1 the book is built up to be equal to Clan of the Cave Bears. The only similarity is that they are each about primitive people. This book comes nowhere near being the literary piece of The Clan series.
+1 Getting past the comparison to The Clan, focusing on this book as a fantasy only, there was a decent story line.
-1 The end of this book sets up the sequel pretty well. Though I probably won't read it.
June 27, 2022
If you love Fantasy Series, you need this book! Strong female protagonist - total bad ass!
Rebba's adopted tribe - decimated.
Rebba's lover sacrificed himself for her survival.
Rebba pulls it together to move on, survive on her own.
But her journey has just begun - and the danger takes form in Eldrax, a chieftain determined to have Rebba's powers.
Fierce. Women lifting each other up - survival and friendship. Cannot wait for the next!
Rebba's adopted tribe - decimated.
Rebba's lover sacrificed himself for her survival.
Rebba pulls it together to move on, survive on her own.
But her journey has just begun - and the danger takes form in Eldrax, a chieftain determined to have Rebba's powers.
Fierce. Women lifting each other up - survival and friendship. Cannot wait for the next!
February 25, 2023
I have seen this book compared to Jean Auel's work and it shouldn't be. It is more of a fantasy. The story is enjoyable and I will continue the series but in terms of research, it doesn't compare to the Earth's Children series.
November 25, 2024
The Forbidden: The Ancestors Saga Book 1
Delightful story of courage, the fight for freedom against all obstacles, and the strength of a higher being to bring this young girl to be fearless and powerful when needed most.
Delightful story of courage, the fight for freedom against all obstacles, and the strength of a higher being to bring this young girl to be fearless and powerful when needed most.
February 7, 2024
Unfortunately, not up to Clan of the Cave Bear standards. I purchased the whole series for next to nothing, so it is possible that I might read on, but I currently have no desire to do so.
October 3, 2021
What a beautiful story so far!
Lori Holmes I want the thank you for such a beautiful story. Your description of maternal love is outstanding and you left me in tears more than once. People please read this book. The characters and story line are superb.
Lori Holmes I want the thank you for such a beautiful story. Your description of maternal love is outstanding and you left me in tears more than once. People please read this book. The characters and story line are superb.
March 16, 2023
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For more reviews, go to https://wolfmantula.com/recent-posts/
MY ⭐️ RATING: 2.75/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
There’s just something about this cover that drew me to this novel, and then reading the blurb of it being set 4,000 years in our own dark forgotten past drew me in even more. There’s something that I find very interesting about stories of early-mankind, unfortunately, while that brought me in, the story and the characters, just weren’t captivating or memorable enough for me.
The author jumps right into action from chapter 1 with what seemed to be a great setup for the rest of the story, but it soon hits a lull that it just couldn’t break out of. It’s the story of a mother’s survival to protect her forbidden child, a child of mixed clans, from people wanting to kill or take advantage of them. Around 20% I had thought about moving on, but decided to stay with it, despite how I felt. It did get a little better later on, but it just never got to that point where I was excited to see what would happen next.
The other issue I had was that I never really cared about the characters, Rebaa started out as an interesting character with what she had to go through, but just never made me latch on. Other characters like Nen and Eldrax were interesting but could’ve used a bit more development than what they got to make their part in the story better. The world-building also wasn’t very strong, but it really didn’t need much based on the environment of the story.
The one thing that I did enjoy was the narration by Billie Fulford-Brown. I thought she did a great job, especially when she was able to show emotion! She poured her heart out into the pages and probably made it better for me. Also, stay tuned after the epilogue for the short story, The Forbidden Son, which is just a continuation of the end of The Forbidden which I thought was much more interesting than book 1. Maybe that means book 2 will be better, but I’m not sure I want to continue.
For more reviews, go to https://wolfmantula.com/recent-posts/
MY ⭐️ RATING: 2.75/5
FORMAT: Kindle Whispersync
There’s just something about this cover that drew me to this novel, and then reading the blurb of it being set 4,000 years in our own dark forgotten past drew me in even more. There’s something that I find very interesting about stories of early-mankind, unfortunately, while that brought me in, the story and the characters, just weren’t captivating or memorable enough for me.
The author jumps right into action from chapter 1 with what seemed to be a great setup for the rest of the story, but it soon hits a lull that it just couldn’t break out of. It’s the story of a mother’s survival to protect her forbidden child, a child of mixed clans, from people wanting to kill or take advantage of them. Around 20% I had thought about moving on, but decided to stay with it, despite how I felt. It did get a little better later on, but it just never got to that point where I was excited to see what would happen next.
The other issue I had was that I never really cared about the characters, Rebaa started out as an interesting character with what she had to go through, but just never made me latch on. Other characters like Nen and Eldrax were interesting but could’ve used a bit more development than what they got to make their part in the story better. The world-building also wasn’t very strong, but it really didn’t need much based on the environment of the story.
The one thing that I did enjoy was the narration by Billie Fulford-Brown. I thought she did a great job, especially when she was able to show emotion! She poured her heart out into the pages and probably made it better for me. Also, stay tuned after the epilogue for the short story, The Forbidden Son, which is just a continuation of the end of The Forbidden which I thought was much more interesting than book 1. Maybe that means book 2 will be better, but I’m not sure I want to continue.
September 19, 2021
Strong Woman
Books about strong women are not always easy to find. This story in another time and place kept my interest right to the end like “Clan of the Cave Bear! I am glad there is a series as I did not want it to be over!
Books about strong women are not always easy to find. This story in another time and place kept my interest right to the end like “Clan of the Cave Bear! I am glad there is a series as I did not want it to be over!
February 27, 2023
Brutal, yet beautiful
I took a chance on this book. It isn’t normally the genre I read. I was surprised how much I liked it. The characters draw the reader in, you become invested in their lives. The world building in good. The plot is interesting and brings you to the edge of your seat a number of times. The writing is great, bringing the story to life. Which at times is a little frightening. I’m glad I took the chance.
I took a chance on this book. It isn’t normally the genre I read. I was surprised how much I liked it. The characters draw the reader in, you become invested in their lives. The world building in good. The plot is interesting and brings you to the edge of your seat a number of times. The writing is great, bringing the story to life. Which at times is a little frightening. I’m glad I took the chance.
March 18, 2021
Loved it!
I absolutely loved this book. The relationships between the characters were just beautiful, and the strength of Rebaa was palpable. I wish there were better descriptions of the different races, but it doesn’t affect the story.
I absolutely loved this book. The relationships between the characters were just beautiful, and the strength of Rebaa was palpable. I wish there were better descriptions of the different races, but it doesn’t affect the story.
January 23, 2022
Exciting, terrific and moving story.
March 16, 2023
I don't know how I got here but I guess I'm reading these.
March 9, 2025
There are moments in life when you stumble upon a book and think, "Ah! Behold this ravishing cover, dripping with promises of adventure, mystery, and pure literary bliss!" (And yes, I judged the book by its cover. Sue me.) So, you borrow the KU book, prepare yourself a steaming cup of tea,—like a queen readying for battle, —sink into your fluffiest throne, and flip to the first page—heart racing, anticipation bubbling over, the giddy thrill of an epic journey about to unfold.—Because that’s what books are meant to do, right? Take you to unknown worlds, fuel your soul, and leave you breathless! (Or heartbroken!)
Page one whispers its sweet nothings, teasing you with the promise of greatness. You keep turning pages with the wide-eyed enthusiasm of a baby bird taking its first solo flight—only to be met with a maelstrom of despair. Suddenly, the air thickens, a sinister fog rolls in, and just like that, your literary honeymoon phase crashes into a storm of mediocrity. Your heart weeps as strong as the winds howl, your hopes are ripped apart, words hit you with the same intensity a baseball size hail hits a metal roof, full of WTF moments, and a torrential downpour of disappointment soaks through every ounce of your will to continue reading. This isn't just a bad read; this is a full-scale tragedy.
If you endured every agonizing page to the bitter end, congratulations, warrior. You are a rare breed, and I will personally commend your soul to the Gods of patience, light a candle for you while whispering your name in reverence, and seek emotional compensation on your behalf. If you didn't abandoned ship at the halfway mark, welcome—you weren't wise enough to leap from the burning wreckage before it nosedived into the abyss (me included). May we meet again in a better book.
Now, let’s dissect this cataclysm of a plot for what it truly is. A mess. A hot, convoluted, raging dumpster fire of nonsensical chaos— mess. One moment, we’re running like hell, adrenaline pumping, the stakes sky-high. Then—wait for it—you don’t actually need to run because, surprise! You have magic! (Except, oops, it doesn’t fully work. Convenient.) And then? BAM! A bear. A massive, bloodthirsty bear fresh out of hibernation—because why not?— appears in front of you. But instead of utilizing any sense of survival, our dear FMC decides, "Oh, I know! Let me try to outrun this 800-pound apex predator!" Genius. She gets injured. Shocking. Who would have guessed that blindly fleeing from a bear wouldn’t work out?
At this point, my little sister could have accomplished more.
And then we spiral even further into nnonsensical territory. The relentless cycle of “I must keep running,” “Oh no, I’m too weak,” (exaggerated eye roll)—Girl, it’s 2025. Get your life together. You’ve got a baby on the way (don’t even get me started on that), and you’re out here waiting for some mystical, brooding hero to save you. Unless said hero is a High Lord, a War College rider, a Mafia Don, or a billionaire with a tragic past, I do not have the patience for this damsel-in-distress energy.
This could have been something—it could have been the whole mountain, hill, or summit to be climbed. It could have been "The one!", the epic story about "run like a girl," but instead, we were given a protagonist whose “qualities” aligned more with exasperation. Perhaps in another, darker timeline—where every other book on Earth has turned to dust and my last brain cell has decided to self-destruct—I would force myself to read the rest of the series.
But in this lifetime? I’d rather wrestle an actual bear and build myself a fortress while pounding sand.
Page one whispers its sweet nothings, teasing you with the promise of greatness. You keep turning pages with the wide-eyed enthusiasm of a baby bird taking its first solo flight—only to be met with a maelstrom of despair. Suddenly, the air thickens, a sinister fog rolls in, and just like that, your literary honeymoon phase crashes into a storm of mediocrity. Your heart weeps as strong as the winds howl, your hopes are ripped apart, words hit you with the same intensity a baseball size hail hits a metal roof, full of WTF moments, and a torrential downpour of disappointment soaks through every ounce of your will to continue reading. This isn't just a bad read; this is a full-scale tragedy.
If you endured every agonizing page to the bitter end, congratulations, warrior. You are a rare breed, and I will personally commend your soul to the Gods of patience, light a candle for you while whispering your name in reverence, and seek emotional compensation on your behalf. If you didn't abandoned ship at the halfway mark, welcome—you weren't wise enough to leap from the burning wreckage before it nosedived into the abyss (me included). May we meet again in a better book.
Now, let’s dissect this cataclysm of a plot for what it truly is. A mess. A hot, convoluted, raging dumpster fire of nonsensical chaos— mess. One moment, we’re running like hell, adrenaline pumping, the stakes sky-high. Then—wait for it—you don’t actually need to run because, surprise! You have magic! (Except, oops, it doesn’t fully work. Convenient.) And then? BAM! A bear. A massive, bloodthirsty bear fresh out of hibernation—because why not?— appears in front of you. But instead of utilizing any sense of survival, our dear FMC decides, "Oh, I know! Let me try to outrun this 800-pound apex predator!" Genius. She gets injured. Shocking. Who would have guessed that blindly fleeing from a bear wouldn’t work out?
At this point, my little sister could have accomplished more.
And then we spiral even further into nnonsensical territory. The relentless cycle of “I must keep running,” “Oh no, I’m too weak,” (exaggerated eye roll)—Girl, it’s 2025. Get your life together. You’ve got a baby on the way (don’t even get me started on that), and you’re out here waiting for some mystical, brooding hero to save you. Unless said hero is a High Lord, a War College rider, a Mafia Don, or a billionaire with a tragic past, I do not have the patience for this damsel-in-distress energy.
This could have been something—it could have been the whole mountain, hill, or summit to be climbed. It could have been "The one!", the epic story about "run like a girl," but instead, we were given a protagonist whose “qualities” aligned more with exasperation. Perhaps in another, darker timeline—where every other book on Earth has turned to dust and my last brain cell has decided to self-destruct—I would force myself to read the rest of the series.
But in this lifetime? I’d rather wrestle an actual bear and build myself a fortress while pounding sand.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2022
Intriguing at best, uncompelling at worst....
...but I blame my own unfamiliarity with this particular genre (fantasy) for the latter opinion. I more or less found the historical element intriguing; it really did feel like these characters were from a distant time in the past. I liked the author's ability to maintain such characterizations of the different cultures/societies she was building, what with their beliefs, labels, motivations, etc. But shame on her for calling this a romance when it very much ISN'T a romance.
The fantasy elements were also intriguing, at least in general, though not fully fleshed out. Certain characters have inexplicable powers that are certainly utilized (and coveted), but you don't get why or how. I'd imagine further explanation will likely come in later books, though, which is fine and to be expected from a series. What's important is that those traits are nicely established in this first entry to the point of keeping my attention, which I can't complain about.
The story is simple enough to follow, though not something too fantastically original. Characters are nicely written and are either likable or unlikable as you would expect them to be. If someone is good, they're INHERITANTLY good, and if someone is evil, well...they're SUPER evil. There's nothing left to leave you feeling conflicted over the matter. There's nothing wrong with this per se, but...it does sometimes lead to unavoidable predictabilities to people's actions. Sometimes you could just see something coming from a mile away.
The story moves along in a decent pace with plenty of thrilling moments, chilling revelations, and violence to boot. My main complaint was the abruptness of the ending, especially given how it so obviously is meant to lead into the next book with an entirely new tale with entirely new challenges. But after joining main characters Revaa and Eldrax (both of whom share narrative duties), to arrive at the final act in the manner that it did was underwhelming.
At any rate, it was still a decent read, though I don't know if I'm overly compelled to continue on into the series. As of now, I don't feel drawn to it, but in the future, who knows?
...but I blame my own unfamiliarity with this particular genre (fantasy) for the latter opinion. I more or less found the historical element intriguing; it really did feel like these characters were from a distant time in the past. I liked the author's ability to maintain such characterizations of the different cultures/societies she was building, what with their beliefs, labels, motivations, etc. But shame on her for calling this a romance when it very much ISN'T a romance.
The fantasy elements were also intriguing, at least in general, though not fully fleshed out. Certain characters have inexplicable powers that are certainly utilized (and coveted), but you don't get why or how. I'd imagine further explanation will likely come in later books, though, which is fine and to be expected from a series. What's important is that those traits are nicely established in this first entry to the point of keeping my attention, which I can't complain about.
The story is simple enough to follow, though not something too fantastically original. Characters are nicely written and are either likable or unlikable as you would expect them to be. If someone is good, they're INHERITANTLY good, and if someone is evil, well...they're SUPER evil. There's nothing left to leave you feeling conflicted over the matter. There's nothing wrong with this per se, but...it does sometimes lead to unavoidable predictabilities to people's actions. Sometimes you could just see something coming from a mile away.
The story moves along in a decent pace with plenty of thrilling moments, chilling revelations, and violence to boot. My main complaint was the abruptness of the ending, especially given how it so obviously is meant to lead into the next book with an entirely new tale with entirely new challenges. But after joining main characters Revaa and Eldrax (both of whom share narrative duties), to arrive at the final act in the manner that it did was underwhelming.
At any rate, it was still a decent read, though I don't know if I'm overly compelled to continue on into the series. As of now, I don't feel drawn to it, but in the future, who knows?
April 17, 2024
Taken from the book "The unforgettable story of one woman’s perilous journey to save, The Forbidden.
Rebaa’s adopted tribe lies slaughtered behind her. Rebaa’s lover, Juran, lays down his life for hers and now she must use all of her cunning and extraordinary powers to survive the inhospitable wilderness alone, ensuring that Juran’s sacrifice was not in vain.
But Rebaa’s battle for survival has only just begun ...
Hunted by savage predators and more terrifying still, the nightmarish Eldrax, a murderous chieftain who will stop at nothing to possess Rebaa’s mysterious powers for his own, her very existence becomes a life or death chase in the pursuit and quest to reach the one place that surely offers salvation and a safe haven she can call home.
But what haven could possibly exist for one who bears ... The Forbidden?
Will Rebaa find her salvation, or will crushing loss, hardship and the burden of carrying The Forbidden, first destroy her from the inside out?"
I did not hate the book, but I did not love that book, it was just an ok book. I was told it was like The Clan of the cave bear, I did not like that book so why try this book, only one reason to, to read for a tag for a group game.
The story drags and the woman day to day survival struggle becomes repetitive. It says it is a romance book, a hint of romance does not make it romance book. I am going to skip the rest of the series but still giving it two stars. It was interesting enough to finish.
Rebaa’s adopted tribe lies slaughtered behind her. Rebaa’s lover, Juran, lays down his life for hers and now she must use all of her cunning and extraordinary powers to survive the inhospitable wilderness alone, ensuring that Juran’s sacrifice was not in vain.
But Rebaa’s battle for survival has only just begun ...
Hunted by savage predators and more terrifying still, the nightmarish Eldrax, a murderous chieftain who will stop at nothing to possess Rebaa’s mysterious powers for his own, her very existence becomes a life or death chase in the pursuit and quest to reach the one place that surely offers salvation and a safe haven she can call home.
But what haven could possibly exist for one who bears ... The Forbidden?
Will Rebaa find her salvation, or will crushing loss, hardship and the burden of carrying The Forbidden, first destroy her from the inside out?"
I did not hate the book, but I did not love that book, it was just an ok book. I was told it was like The Clan of the cave bear, I did not like that book so why try this book, only one reason to, to read for a tag for a group game.
The story drags and the woman day to day survival struggle becomes repetitive. It says it is a romance book, a hint of romance does not make it romance book. I am going to skip the rest of the series but still giving it two stars. It was interesting enough to finish.
May 26, 2022
✨The Forbidden Book Tour✨
~ Spoiler Free Review ~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Rebaa's adopted tribe lies slaughtered behind her. Rebaa's lover, Juran, lays down his life for hers and now she must use all of her cunning and extraordinary powers to survive the inhospitable wilderness alone, ensuring that Juran's sacrifice was not in vain.’
This debut novel by Lori Holmes is a tale with a strong, female lead taking centre stage. After experiencing the trauma of losing her tribe, Rebaa must fight to save ‘The Forbidden’.
Rebaa’s story is full of excitement, loss, pain and hope written in an engaging and compelling manner. She is forced to endure intense circumstances in order to find sanctuary for herself.
This story was a little different to what I would usually pick up by I absolutely loved it! The story was full of twists and turns that I would not have anticipated and really kept me guessing. I loved the way Rebaa’s character was portrayed - it made it really easy to relate to her and left me fearing for her wellbeing. A truly gripping read which was definitely ‘unputdown-able’. You may wish to have some tissues close to hand just in case!
Any reader with a love of fantasy will adore this journey of adventure, romance, mythology and folklore.
Thank you to @lovebooktours and @loriholmes for the copy - I look forward to reading the sequel!
#ad #gifted #lovebooktours
~ Spoiler Free Review ~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
‘Rebaa's adopted tribe lies slaughtered behind her. Rebaa's lover, Juran, lays down his life for hers and now she must use all of her cunning and extraordinary powers to survive the inhospitable wilderness alone, ensuring that Juran's sacrifice was not in vain.’
This debut novel by Lori Holmes is a tale with a strong, female lead taking centre stage. After experiencing the trauma of losing her tribe, Rebaa must fight to save ‘The Forbidden’.
Rebaa’s story is full of excitement, loss, pain and hope written in an engaging and compelling manner. She is forced to endure intense circumstances in order to find sanctuary for herself.
This story was a little different to what I would usually pick up by I absolutely loved it! The story was full of twists and turns that I would not have anticipated and really kept me guessing. I loved the way Rebaa’s character was portrayed - it made it really easy to relate to her and left me fearing for her wellbeing. A truly gripping read which was definitely ‘unputdown-able’. You may wish to have some tissues close to hand just in case!
Any reader with a love of fantasy will adore this journey of adventure, romance, mythology and folklore.
Thank you to @lovebooktours and @loriholmes for the copy - I look forward to reading the sequel!
#ad #gifted #lovebooktours
November 30, 2023
99% of book - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Last chapter/ending - ⭐⭐
This was fun. Like just a genuinely fun, enjoyable read. The writing flowed, the pacing was quick, and I just seriously enjoyed it. I wish the ending was better, it left me SERIOUSLY disappointed.
✅-caveman vibes- the prehistoric setting was awesome, the unforgiving land and survival was gritty and raw.
✅-characters I was so attached to basically all the characters they were written so well. Nen, you will live in my heart forever. The MC is so resilient, she makes dumb choices every now and then but it only makes you love her more for her flaws.
I did have a lil cry, I was INVESTED.
And then .. the ending... Meh
So disappointed at how it turned out. The last chapter was just a shocking nothingness, so much so that I actually have 0 interest in reading the rest of the series.
Usually my brain won't let me end a series early, but considering the rest will involve NONE of the same people, it doesn't feel like it matters.
Last chapter/ending - ⭐⭐
This was fun. Like just a genuinely fun, enjoyable read. The writing flowed, the pacing was quick, and I just seriously enjoyed it. I wish the ending was better, it left me SERIOUSLY disappointed.
✅-caveman vibes- the prehistoric setting was awesome, the unforgiving land and survival was gritty and raw.
✅-characters I was so attached to basically all the characters they were written so well. Nen, you will live in my heart forever. The MC is so resilient, she makes dumb choices every now and then but it only makes you love her more for her flaws.
I did have a lil cry, I was INVESTED.
And then .. the ending... Meh
So disappointed at how it turned out. The last chapter was just a shocking nothingness, so much so that I actually have 0 interest in reading the rest of the series.
Usually my brain won't let me end a series early, but considering the rest will involve NONE of the same people, it doesn't feel like it matters.
April 23, 2024
Three stars is not a bad rating and this is not a bad book. It is, short, fast, and entertaining. It starts right out with a lot of action. The first sentence of the book is "Blood." It has overtones of Clan of the Cave Bear, a prehistoric woman who is well beyond a strong female character. Ayla in the CCB series pretty much invents all of civilization single handedly. Rebaa is a prehistoric woman who survives incredible trauma, hardships, ordeals. She out smarts, out runs, out fights a group of the best warriors of the tribe. She also has super powers. The super powers start out pretty believably, sensing the presence of animals and people at a distance, a bit of energy manipulation and self healing. About the time she kills someone by stopping his heart with her mind, it's pretty over the top. But she has gotten you to that point by gradual enough steps that it doesn't jar you out of the story.
The ending feels abrupt. Rebaa is running for her life and running for her life and then suddenly "eight years later..."
The ending feels abrupt. Rebaa is running for her life and running for her life and then suddenly "eight years later..."
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