Review: On Eartha: "Never Discount A Woman"
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 22, 2013
I received a copy of Stag Hunt through Amazon Free Day promotion. This is an honest review!Stag Hunt follows the story of Eartha, whose love for her twin brother causes her to make choices that is out of the norm for females during her time. The High King dies leaving Gailen, Eartha's best friend, but also the princess, as next in line to rule. But tradition dictates that she is to find a husband. Gailen is deeply in love with Balen, Eartha's twin brother, who Eartha is very protective towards. Gailen is distraught that another will be picked as her husband (for Balen is not considered high in status in the community), so an old ritual is announced, that whoever kills the King Stag, will be the defender of the land and also will marry Gailen.'Much to Eartha's displeasure, Balen is entering into the hunt; Eartha is extremely concerned for her brother's safety, although Balen is an excellent fighter and such, she fears he is too distracted and will not focus, also Arn, a former childhood mate, who even as a child cheated and would stop at nothing to win; is entering and as an adult has become even more ruthless.Soon as preparation begins, and Eartha is unable to dissuade her brother, news travels that various participants are disappearing, it seems someone is getting rid of the competition. One day, her brother is hurt in an attack, and it appears will not be able to compete in the hunt. Eartha seeing her  heart- broken brother and best friend, and also not only for the love of them, but her land; she decides to enter.She cuts her hair and dresses like her brother, and with alterations, no one is able to tell the difference, thus she sets upon a path that will change herself, as well as change the people in her land's mindsets...never to discount a woman.First I will say, that I always look forward to Author Laura Deluca's stories, due to they cover Classic tales, Traditions in various cultures and they are told from a fresh, hip concept! I love this! As an avid history buff, and reader I find this fascinating; I myself have never come across this in Young Adult fiction in the exact way that Ms. Deluca delivers.This is n0 text book rendition of facts, but she breathes life into art and history and makes it her own.I enjoyed Stag Hunt, as with many of Ms. Deluca's stories, there is an enjoyable story telling quality; clear concise, very nice flow. There were no lagging parts that will cause the reader to lose focus. The story flowed smoothly and fast paced as the events unfolded into a grand adventure. I love also the strong female characters depicted and the strength in Eartha. She knew who she was and made no apologies for it.Also, this story was different in that the love that was so strong, was that of a sister to brother, and that was a fresh new twist, especially in YA where the main focus of most stories is the grand passion between the two main characters.I look forward to Ms. Deluca's stories because you truly never know what to expect.Also my thoughts on Author Angelique Mroczka's foreword- (Flash fiction)If I understand correctly, the forward was created separately at a different time, which is so surprising because it fits perfectly. It captures the bravery and spirited adventure that is reflected in the story. Ms. Mroczka, has a poetic and lovely way of writing and I look forward to works from this author as well.Stag Hunt I believe will be an excellent story teens and adults, there is mild violence(as far as the hunt).