This short novel set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Green Rider series tells the backstory of fan-favorite character Laren Mapstone
Perfect for longtime Green Rider fans eager for more of the world or new readers discovering the realm of Sacoridia for the first time, this action-packed, feminist fantasy is a must-read for lovers of the genre.
After years of leading the battle against the vicious Darrow Raiders, Lieutenant-Rider Laren Mapstone has built a fortress around herself to conceal her emotions and the deep scars she carries. When she is made mentor to Tavin Bankside, a Green Rider trainee on his first message errand, her cold and brooding exterior quickly earns her the moniker the “Ice Lady.”
Only after Laren is severely wounded in an attack on the North Road by a gang of banditsincluding some former Darrow Raiders with vengeance on their mindsdo the fortress walls fall. Even as they seek refuge from danger in a Rider waystation, Tavin’s natural empathic gift leaves him vulnerable to the assault of the lieutenant’s emotions. Tavin must save Lieutenant Mapstone’s life and master his empathic gift before it destroys them both.
However, an ancient power lurks deep within the Green Cloak, and its aid or hindrance could mean survival for the Riders or the downfall of Sacoridia and all the free lands.
Lieutenant Laren Mapstone has taken her trainee Green Rider, Tavin Bankside, on what should be an easy, routine mission - deliver a message from the crown to a forester and then return with the answer. But things go awry when the duo are attacked by bandits, some from a group Laren is responsible for destroying. With Laren badly injured they narrowly escape the bandits as Tavin discovers his Green Rider power and kills the bandits. As the two take refuge in a hidden way station, Laren is tormented by both her physical injuries and the emotional turmoil she has never dealt with over the death of her lover at the hands of the bandits. Aided by a mysterious hermit and the forester they had been sent to meet, both Laren and Tavin learn how to deal with the pain from their pasts.
Just before the pandemic I read The Dream Gatherer by Ms Britain and knew I wanted to read more about the world and characters she created. With everything going on at that time it slipped my mind until I saw this book offered for review. The synopsis is correct that it is a good place for a new reader to find out about the world and its people. The worldbuilding is engaging and the characters are interesting. I want to know more about these people and their land and this time I will not be distracted by real world events. Recommended. ~~ Stephanie L Bannon
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