Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Forsaken Island (The Dancing Realms #2) by Sharon Hinck

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring Forsaken Island (The Dancing Realms #2) by Sharon Hinck.

About the Book

On an uncharted world, happiness is effortless and constant ... but can true joy exist without sacrifice?

The people of Meriel have long believed their island world floats alone in the vast ocean universe, so they are astonished when another island drifts into view. With resources becoming scarce, Carya and Brantley quickly volunteer to search the new land for supplies.

After navigating a barrier of menacing trees, the pair encounter a culture of perpetually happy people who readily share their talents and their possessions. But all is not what it seems. At the core of the island is a horror that threatens everyone, including Brantley and Carya.

Freeing the villagers of the bondage they've chosen may cost Carya and Brantley more than they could have imagined. Even if the two succeed, they'll have to find a way to return to Meriel quickly ... or be cut off from their home forever.

Book Beginnings

Across a sweep of waves, the new world called to me. Sea breezes tickled my skin, stirring excitement and making my muscles twitch. What surprises might the unexpected hold? The tangleroot shore of Meriel's rim rocked beneath my bare feet, daring me to leave it's safety.

Friday 56

By the firelight, while Plexia was in a warm, receptive mood, I shared my story. The years in the Order, the darkness behind perfection, the discovery of the Maker's letter, and how He offered us freedom.

What have you been reading lately?