Out of the Dawn Light by Alys Clare (F CLA Main)
Reviewed by Sue Wolfe
Out of the Dawn Light is the first in the “Aelf Fen Mysteries” series by Alys Clare. She created the entertaining “Hawkenlye” mystery series set during the time of Richard the Lionhearted. This new series is set in 11th century England in the village of Aelf Fen. It was a time of cosmic upheaval in society. There was a clash between the old pagan ways and Christianity. The old ruling class had been elbowed out by the Norman conquerors. This is a captivating story about the common folk and the magic still abroad in the land.
The main protagonist is Lassair, a 14 year old with special gifts. She has all the issues of a young teen, with a crush on two young men. She also has a talent for finding lost items and is studying healing skills from her aunt Edid, who is skilled in the ways of the old gods. She can’t resist when the two young men she likes ask her to help locate a hidden treasure, especially since she has been helping her obnoxious pregnant sister.
They unearth a 500 year old gold relic with mystical powers that can cause great harm. However, some people want to use it as a pawn. Romain, one of the young men, is murdered and the other man framed. Lassair along with the killer are the only ones who know the truth, and it takes all of Lassair’s courage and abilities to help prove the young man innocent.
This is a charming, high-spirited adventure and clever mystery with a tad of romance and mysticism thrown in. The times and people are brought vividly to life. The characters are well fleshed out and likable. It has a comfortable love of family and friends with charismatic characters.
The 2nd book, Music of the Distant Stars, is due to be released in December.
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