On the beautiful new world of Adalta, an ancient threat emerges. Young Marta is dropped to the planet for her first secret mission alone. Raised by her father on the orbiting trade ship, he trained her for this, and to live by the rules don’t get attached and don’t get discovered.
As cover for this mission she joins the Mi’hiru, the all-female elite guard who patrol the skies on Karda, majestic hawk-headed flying horses. What Marta doesn’t know is that when she is chosen by her Karda, it creates a deep telepathic bond that is for life. How can she keep her secrets when her Karda knows her thoughts?
And someone is trying to kill her. Who is it? And why? Is it her former lover, also an agent from the ship, or could it be the handsome, charming nobleman Readen? In a world where everyone is gifted with elemental magic, only Readen has none.
When Marta finds a high-tech weapon she knows could only come from her ship, on a planet where the only weapons allowed are arrows and swords, could it be Readen smuggling them to use in the bitter power struggle with his brother. She is thrown together with the arrogant nobleman, Altan, to stop this threat.
As tensions rise and the ancient threat emerges, will Marta accept the frightening elemental magic powers Adalta wants to give her to save the planet she loves.
Araceli Noriega for Reader Views (11/18) I recommend "Karda: Adalta Vol. I" by Sherrill Nilson as a fun read. It is an adventure to be had with minor interruptions. The storyline is strong and barely predictable--which is really quite enjoyable. It is an exciting trip into a universe we can only dream of filled with possibilities the reader will watch evolve into thrilling encounters. Whether you love animals, mystery, or just alternate universes, this is a sure bet for anyone seeking an engrossing escape.
Five Star Reader Reviews:
“This is one of the best scifi/fantasy books I have read since The Dragon Riders of Pern”
“She added something you rarely see in a novel, makes this book soar over the top. Kurt Nilson” illustrations are intricate and detailed and caught the essence of the characters and captured the tone of the book. I highly recommend this book.”
“The Karda have joined the Dragons of Pern and the Companions of Valdemar as some of my all time favorite "creature characters!”
”When will I find a fantasy novel as lovely and lyrical as the series I've been reading?" Here it is: KARDA is Volume 1 of Sherrill Nilson's amazingly expansive ADALTA series”
“outstandingly imaginative characters and settings.”
“Not since Anne McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern series have I come across such a well done blend of fantasy and science fiction.“
“I am always attracted to strong female characters and Marta did not let me down! The relationship between rider and Karda is the kind of thing I used to dream of as a kid.”
“Great book within the science-fiction genre that also carries a feel for the fantastical. If you're a fan of Sharon Shinn and her Archangel series I would highly recommend this.”
“I want to ride a Karda.”
