Review: sole sacrifice
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 07 19, 2012
What would a parent sacrifice for a child? Most of us would say "anything, everything" and mean it.  Add three children lost prior to this last surviving child falling ill with same that caused death to others and we might be beyond desperation in doing whatever possible for a CHANCE - much less a cure.This is where the story begins...the final child fallen ill after just such loss (three prior children).  A father done with known methods proven useless strides out of his village and away from his clan /culture ready to do whatever needs doing to save his remaining child.  His travels take him to a shaman with directions and an answer he just needs complete a task (magic enhanced gems).  In doing his task he is swindled (in more ways than one) and makes the ultimate sacrifice for his child AND the other children in his village.  Upon his return and finding out the effectiveness of his deeds, he is subjected to clan law and becomes an outcast of the community.The story rushed through some of the devices and therefore some were thin and unfulfilling to this reader (hence the 4, rather than 5 stars - and I rarely give 5 to shorts, but would have this time).  Though, I was pleased the ending did not alter to something happier just because it could have and many readers seem to prefer such.  It cannot be easy for an author to remain on a course premise wise when it is easier to take the easy way out (just happy it all up).  Kudos that bit.This is a well edited, fast paced tale that explores the human condition when faced with life or death choices related to loved ones and ones we bring into this world and vow to protect at any cost - even cost of self in process.  This is a good advert for author ability, unique creativity with a common premise (self sacrifice) and world building that even peeked through in such short work.Recommended.Christine