About Arrow
Saving lives is a deadly endeavor.
When her plans to return a kidnapped child to his family are thwarted, royal detective Redwyn “Red” Deathan’s journey takes an unexpected path when she finds herself agreeing to assist Frilore’s monarchy in hunting down those responsible for poisoning their son. The prince has few days left to live, and not only must Red discover the cure and culprit, but she must also assist in dismantling a deadly trafficking ring—and neither culprit nor traffickers appreciate her interference.
Ruid MacTíré is weary of war, but when it again knocks on his clan’s doorstep, he finds himself thrust into not only a captaincy he does not want, but also expected to take down one of his people’s greatest enemies. As pressure grows and the war threatens everyone he loves, Ruid finds himself not only fighting for his people, but for his heart as well.
Maerin Rósach never wanted to fight, but war offers her no choice. Determined to help repel the evil her chieftain is determined to spread, she signs up to fight for her clan’s enemy. Despite the captain’s awkward, yet kind attempts to gain her friendship, Maerin resolves to remain aloof, for if anyone uncovers her secret, her life will be forfeited and her siblings will be taken away. Her heart, however, has different plans, and she soon finds herself softening toward the man who holds her life in his hands.
As danger threatens countless lives and unknown enemies emerge at every turn, Red, Ruid, and Maerin must find a way to overcome evil schemes and increasing peril or risk losing everyone they hold dear.
ARROW is a New Adult Christian fantasy fairy tale retelling.
My Thoughts
My Rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was phenomenal. I’ve read and loved all of Madisyn’s books in the Redwyn Chronicles, but I think this one takes the first place prize.
To be honest, I’ve never been overly fond of the Mulan story. In fact, I probably wouldn’t have picked up Arrow if I hadn’t already loved the other books in the series.
I don’t know how Madisyn did it, but she gave Arrow a flair very reminiscent of Mulan, and made me love it. I turned pages as fast as I could until I reached the very end.
The characters were an absolute blast. Ruid was the perfect hero–a strong leader who had a vulnerable side he tried so hard to cover. Maerin, with her shyness and utter lack of warrior skills, made the perfect match for him, even if that was the last thing either of them would have imagined at first. (P.S. I must add that I loved that Maerin was not trying to hide as a man. That’s probably why I never liked Mulan).
Speaking of characters, the side characters were one of the best parts about the book. Yushu, Pwyl, Yúl, and Láo all had me laughing. Láo had terrible humor, so terrible that he instantly became one of my favorite characters. And then there’s Precious, the racoon. Chaos is bound to ensue when there’s a racoon involved.
And I need to mention the world building. Halthdurn and Frilore are real places to me. I see them clearly in my mind, and I’m quite convinced they exist somewhere out there.
The faith content integrated nicely with the story–and there was plenty of it. Plus, I super appreciate the clean quality of the romance.
My only complaint–I need the next book. Fast. I don’t know how I’m going to wait until it releases . . .
Needless to say, I loved Arrow and highly recommend it. You owe it to yourself to read it.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book, but my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Quote From Arrow
“Is something wrong?” Her voice tremored.
“No. Nothing’s wrong.”
She stared at him, eyes wide.
Come on, man. Quit being a dolt. Speak.
“I–ah–how’re your hands?”
“They are fine.”
Such scintillating conversation.
“How is your bow holding up?”
“It’s fine.”
He would never win an award for Conversationalist of the Year.
About the Author of Arrow
Madisyn Carlin is a Christian, homeschool graduate, author, and avid bookdragon. When not spending time with family, trekking through the mountains, and adding to her notebook hoard, she weaves tales of redemption, faith, and action.
Want to connect? https://linktr.ee/madisyncarlin
Other Books in the Redwyn Chronicles
Before you read Arrow, I highly recommend reading the other books in the series. All of them are fantastic adventures that you won’t be able to put down. (My favorite of the three was definitely Iron.)
Sounds good