Michael A Rothman

I just finished reading Heirs of Prophecy by Michael A. Rothman, and it's a wonderful fantasy adventure. I liked the Rivertons right away and thought their family dynamics seemed realistic. It would certainly be a lot easier being stranded in a strange land with your whole family! The pace of the story is excellent. The author created a magical new world with creatures that I could easily picture and a storyline that I thought about when I wasn’t reading. Whenever magic is involved- anything can happen! I loved learning about the characters’ special powers and watching them discover how to control these new gifts. It was great to see the way the Rivertons changed both together and independently in their new home. I liked the way they adjusted to living in a time period that seemed so old fashioned, but in a way they seemed less stressed and happier. I think that this book would be great for kids in grades 4-8. Anyone that likes a fantasy story will fall into the pages of this wonderful book and go on an adventure that will stay with them after they turn the last page. I look forward to reading the next book in the series, Tools of the Prophecy because I can’t wait to see what happens next!… (más)

Heirs of Prophecy left off at a climactic moment, so I was interested to see where Michael A. Rothman would pick up in this sequel. Sure enough, the beginning of Tools of Prophecy whisks readers right back into the heart of the story line. If you haven't read book one, you'll still be able to pick things up here. Rothman gives a quick synopsis of what happened before. The Rivertons are back, and with them comes the epic adventure that they set off on before. Danger, magic, mayhem. It's all here and better than ever.

In this installment the Riverton brothers are more mature, and have a much better handle on their powers. What I loved is the way that Rothman shows their young selves hiding beneath the surface of their older bodies. They are still growing boys in more ways than one, and much of this story shows their progression. The brotherly love between these two is still palpable. It's interesting to see these two characters in older situations. They are still so sweet!

My one gripe about the first book was that I wanted more world building so that I could immerse myself in the story. I was therefore really happy when I started reading Tools of Prophecy. Where book one was spent mostly building back story, this installment focuses much more on the world itself. This is a darker story, full of twists and turns. It kept me reading fervently. The only thing that kept me from fully falling in love was that there are some slow pieces. I know, I know. Complete opposite of last time. That didn't stop me from adoring this book as a whole though.

At the end of the day, Tools of Prophecy was an extremely satisfying second book in this series. If you haven't started Michael A. Rothman's journey yet, now is a great time to start! You won't have to wait for the second book. If you have a young reader that is looking for adventure, or even if you are an older reader who feels the same way, this is a book for you. Get ready for an epic journey.… (más)

I picked up Heirs of Prophecy on a whim one day, and two hours later I was done with the book. Let me say, before anything else, that Michael A. Rothman can most definitely tell a story! The Riverton family is one of the sweetest groups of people that I've ever met. Aaron, Ryan and their parents face a lot in this book, but they deal with it as a family. If you're looking for a wholesome read that will still draw in your young reader, this is it!

Aaron and Ryan are definitely great protagonists. They each have their own distinct personalities, but at the same time play off one another beautifully. Their banter made me giggle, a lot. Rothman makes sure to show the story from both boys' points of view. It's so much fun to see them grow into their powers, and try to uncover why they are so special in the first place. These boys are true to the age that they are. Underneath the bickering, and the occasional jealousy, they love one another a lot. When things get right down to it, they'll be there to support one another. Thank you so much Mr. Rothman, for writing believable young people. It made me smile.

In terms of plot line, the story moves at a great pace. There is always just enough action to keep things moving along smoothly. My one complaint, and this is likely because I'm an older reader, was that I really wanted more of Trimoria itself. I'm a big fantasy reader. I love sweeping worlds and descriptive writing. There was a lot of that here, but not enough to really draw me into the world that Aaron and Ryan were exploring. Again, I'm sure it has a lot to do with the reader base this book is aimed at. It didn't detract that much from my enjoyment of the overall story. This family definitely steals the show anyhow!

At the end of the day I truly enjoyed reading Heirs of Prophecy. I'm so glad to finally see a fantasy book that is tailored to middle grade readers, and yet still completely holds the attention of older readers too. The Riverton family has a special place in my heart now and I cannot wait to see more of them! Wherever these young boys go next, I'll be there.… (más)

Willow had fond memories of her mother but since her recent death, Willow enjoyed the love, support and companionship of her father and twin brothers. She enjoyed her small community in the country. She would soon need to return to the Academy to finish her Senior year of studies. Her best friend would be attending with her.
Her father and brothers needed to go to the forest to get a special wood they discovered for the bows and arrows the made and sold at their merchandise shop. Her dad insisted on her going with them. She was certain he just wanted her away from the house to discontinue brooding over the loss of her mother. She had second watch that night for wildlings or other creatures the other side of the outlands from the Dominion which became contaminated after the Great War. Willow needed to stay close to camp but she needed to find a bush or something to go behind to relieve herself . Before she had the chance, something happened that would result in losing her father as well.
Willow discovered she could dream walk. She discovered many other talents as well...Some talents she had top keep secret. While at the Academy, she was able to accomplish the unthinkable and in the process met a very nice young man...One who she was afraid to trust.
Willow experiences, adventures, danger, betrayal and grief. This is a story of a remarkable young woman who began realizing she could accomplish more than she would ever imagine she was capable of.
The Title and Book Cover re very well-chosen and fitting. It took me several pages before I could "get into" the story. Once I began to understand it, it taught several important principles. I would not recommend this book to youth under the age of sixteen, due to crudeness and graphic violence in parts.
^This book was a gift but in no way has that influenced this honest review.… (más)