Date/Time of Posting: Jun 07 2003 / 19:33:53
name = Jeni
where = Kalgoorlie, Western Australia
comments = Dear Cecilia
I enjoy your writing immensely. Your calibre of story telling is equal to Tolkien, Robert Jordan, Katherine Kerr, Maggie Furey, Stephen Donaldson, Terry Brooks and Juliet Marillier. In my estimation, all excellent authors.
Thank you for the "Bitterbynde" trilogy. I had to wait so long after the Ill Made Mute to receive book 2 (living in the outback). However, the story in book 1 has kept me hanging on. This, Im sure, is proof positive (to you) of an excellent story writing style. That the reader can not wait for the continuation. I hope your stories are giving you enormous success and I hope this success is after a hard won struggle to be printed so that you have that profound satisfaction of self actualization, the one reward that no one can steal from you.
I await your next work. Cecilia, enjoy the accolades, never lose your
imagination.
Afterthought: Cool website, all fantasy authors should have one.
Jeni
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Date/Time of Posting: Jun 07 2003 / 14:03:08
name = Sara
where = Washington, DC (orig. CT)
comments = I loved the first two books of the triology and am eagerly awaitng the third (though I have heard tell that Thorn and Rohain/Tahquil/Ashalind never really get back together . . . . how sad); also, I was wondering if the new book to be released in the future "The Iron Tree" is going to continue this entrancing saga, and what the book (whether or not it continues the tale . . . which i hope it does) is about.
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From: "Shanra"
Date: Sun, 1 Jun 2003 08:48:59 +0900
Dear miss Dart-Thornton,
I am a seventeen-year old amateur writer and one of the base pillars that uphold the world in which I live is magic, thus when I read The Bitterbynde, I was completely spellbound. I have not been so enraptured with a book ever since I learned that, in this world, the miracles of fairytales do no happen.
Your books possess a quality I have not seen in 'The Lord of the Rings', for yours possesses an elegance that fades not in translations. Well, it DOES fade, of course, but beauty and the magic stay. Your skill is one that many writers can only dream of. 'The Bitterbynde' has touched a part of me that growing up had made me forget existed: the part from where children find the magic in the world. I thank you deeply for unlocking the door to that realm of magic and myth and giving me back a piece of myself that I should have guarded with my life. I pray that I shall never forget it again.
I would also like to thank you for opening the world of Aia to all of us. I'm recommending your books to people I know hate both reading and thick books as well as those who love them, because your books definitely belong on the must-reads of all times.
When I read 'The Bitterbynde', I felt like all I needed to do was close my eyes once and upon opening I would be there, in this splendid world you have created. Yet miracles like that do not happen in this world filled with lies and cruelty, do they? Would that one could leave this world and all its sorrow to yesterday. So I can understand the desire to seperate the two worlds. Humans, after all, do not belong in Faeryrealms. *sighs sadly*
I would say that you walk with wings. I cannot be completely sure, not knowing what you are like, but your books make me believe it. 'And With Wings You Walk' is a get-well poem I wrote for a friend of mine whose heart truly does not belong in this world, I failed at capturing who she is, but in any case, the general theme would fit. From what I read in the guestbook it might fit Ashalind. It's technically just what the name implies, having wings yet forced to walk when one should fly. I think that may be true for many fantasy writers. The vividness and reality with which you describe Erith is too real. Tales come from somewhere, I believe they ARE real somewhere and stories are all we have to remind us of these other realms we have long since lost touch with. Your descriptions are so clear and so intense, Aia does not simply breathe; it lives. So again thank you, thank you for giving this world such a wonderful gift. Treasure the magic that is within you always, like purity of heart, it is one of the rarest gifts to be bestowed upon us humans.
I am looking forward to seeing more of your works and finally getting my hands on the Battle of Evernight. *hops around* Must read! Must read! And read and read and read and... Find that darn doorway to the realms of magic!
*hops around humming*
Would that I could write like you, might be good for my self-confidence. But a dream for seeming perfect is the road to improvement, is it not? Thanks to you, I will definitely set my standards higher, because you've shown me it IS possible to achieve the impossible. Might as well try to do it myself, with a little bit of luck and a healthy dose of magic, I might actually succeed!
Sincerely,
Lindy 'Shanra' Kuepers
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Date/Time of Posting: May 29 2003 / 03:37:58
name = Sharon
where = Sydney, Australia
Dear Cecilia
I haven't read any fantasy recently, but I saw a review of your trilogy in the SMH and thought I'd give it a go. I think the first book took about a month to read, the second less than a week. I had to wait two whole agonising weeks for the third book to come back to the library, and I took two days off work in order to finish it undisturbed. I now have a headache from eyestrain and a pile of work to do, which won't get done because I'm too distracted. I'm unsettled by the ending. While of course I'm overjoyed that Ashalind and Angavar were finally reunited (wow, that was touch and go), I feel somehow let down that the conclusion to the story is beyond the reach of the reader. We traveled with her for so long, felt all her frustrations and pain, were spellbound in the moments she shared with her seemingly most perfect man, only to have the door shut us out at< the final moment. The times when she and Thorn were together I read and reread. Absolutely mesmerising. I so looked fo rward to sharing their triumph and happiness at the end with the same level of immersion, only to be detached by utter devastation and then not-quite solaced with a "PS". The snippet from the Epilogue was like, well, "reading" the final chapter of a story that had previously been "lived". Like eating the cochal devoid of the toradh. No wonder we're all pining!
But bravo. It's the best thing I've read in ages and I'll harrass every one of my friends til they're read it to. Then I won't have to pine alone.
Thanks for the journey - almost better than travel.
Sharon
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Date/Time of Posting: May 20 2003 / 04:41:20
name = Jodie
where = Perth WA
Dear Miss Dart-Thornton
I would just like to say that I was absolutely spell bound by Th Bitterbynde trilogy. They are definately books to greatly riva another fantasy fav of mine - George R. R. Martin & dare I say th depth of detail could rival Tolkien. Your books are thoroughl original and compell the reader to continue turning those pages!!!!
You have a magnificent writing style so keep up the good work.
One of your biggest fans
jodie
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Date/Time of Posting: May 15 2003 / 03:32:27
From: Iona
East Bay, California
Dear Ms. Dart-Thornton,
I have just finished reading the complete Bitterbynde trilogy and must applause you on your writing. Not only is it engrossing, but it has basis in folklore. Ever since I read the first book of the trilogy, I have been avidly awaiting the following books. I shall await your future works Ms. Dart-Thornton.
Sincerely,
Iona
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From: "Jess Krull"
Subject: Bitterbynde Books
Date: Mon, 28 Apr 2003 23:44:01 +0000
Dear Cecilia,
As a great fan of the fantasy genre, I just want to say how much I loved reading your books. I am 17 years old and am currently involved in English Extensions 2 course at school which involves students to create their own novel. I am currently researching the Celts and have discovered how closely that your texts are linked with British mythology and folklore. I think that it's excellent that you are bringing to life for modern day society, traditions and folklore that existed thousands of years ago. I particularly love your inclusion of Thomas the Rhymer or True Thomas.
Studying the Celtic Dawntime has led me to uncover just how great a role that Thomas actually played in British legends. I am fascinated by the way that you have so beautifully and articulately woven so many tales and legends together to create such a rich tapestry of images which evoke such strong emotions from your readers.
Thank you very much!!
Jessica
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From: "Daniel Egan"
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003 15:42:33 +1000
Hi,
My name is Daniel Egan and I am in year 11 at Whitefriars College. Last year I was invited by my teachers to attend the Readers Feast in the City to listen to Australian authors. At the Readers Feast I was introduced to Cecilia Dart Thornton with my fellow students and we listened to her read a passage out of The Lady of the Sorrows when Imrihen/Rohain/Tahquil finally has her memory restored. Ever since that moment my life has never been the same.
Being a huge Tolkein and J.K Rowling fan, I eagerly bought the first copy of the Ill Made Mute that I saw and had it signed by Cecilia Dart Thornton herself. Once I picked up the Ill Made Mute for the first time, I couldn't put it down.
Annoyingly, as I didn't have enough money, I had to wait until Christmas until I recieved the Lady of the Sorrows and was sorely dissapointed when my father told me that The Battle of Evernight had been sold out at all shops he had gone to. Quickly finishing The Lady of the Sorrows I was so happy that Sianadh lived and Keat Featherstone, one of the minor characters in the Ill Made Mute had a part in it - he was one of my favourties at the start.
When I finally purchased a copy of the Battle of Evernight I was overjoyed that Morragon was overthrown and Angavar came back into power as the King of the Faerie. But I was really sad when Ashalind was separated from Angavar and then was married unwittingly to the new prince - I should have guessed though because Pug did say that Faerian and Mortal love always ends in doom.
Overall, I think all three books were fantastic and I am definately going to read them many times in the future and I hope Cecilia Dart Thornton expands on her skills as an author and writes many more books to come
Daniel Egan
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From: "Dr Bob Rich"
Subject: Beaut mute
Date: Tue, 22 Apr 2003 22:43:46 +1000
Dear Cecilia,
I have just discovered your writing, and am halfway through 'The Ill-made Mute'. I guess it's ancient history to you, with the whole trilogy finished and you started on a second one, but it's new and fresh to me.
One of the things I admire in this book is the way you introduce and maintain an entire new reality without once lecturing the reader. And yet you haven't lost me once.
This is in contrast to a book I recently started, and put down unfinished: Jean Auel's fifth book. She shows something very well through dialogue, then feels the need to explain to me what it all means. Grr.
Another excellent thing is the way you use terms that are foreign to me, and get me to understand them through the way they are used. The book I am currently working on is set in Hungary, and I have wrestled with the way I should use the exotic (to English-speakers) names and terms. I am learning from your book. I am looking forward to finishing the book and reading its sequels.
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From: "debbie clausen"
Subject: RE: "Bitterbynde Books"
Date: Mon, 7 Apr 2003 08:41:50 -0700
Hi: I just read your I & II Bitterbynde Books on the recommendations of a salesperson at Walden Books in Sacramento, California. I couldn't wait to finish the first one to read the second one and now I can't wait to get # III. Very excellent writing and subject. You have done a great job of creating new characters that you make come alive. Thank you for putting down in writing your wonderful creative thoughts.
Your books do not show any of your other works - is that because you do not have any others or because they are published with another publisher? If you do have other books out, please let me know the names. The bookstores do not have any others listed.
Hope you continue to write more books. I look forward to keeping you on my favorite author list.
Sincerely,
Debbie Clausen
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From: "Aisling Goodhew"
Date: Sat, 29 Mar 2003 23:11:11 +1100
I could not stop weeping after finishing "The battle of Evernight" it almost hurts me, the conclusion to the tale of Ash and Thorn is so beautiful and sad. I plan to marry my own Thorn soon, we will be including "the lovers vow" in the ceremony.
~Aisling
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Date/Time of Posting: Mar 27 2003 / 17:13:20
name = absynthe
where = yeppoon queensland
comments = I have just finished your first two books of the bitterbynde trilogy, and I am pleasantly surprised at how much I loved them. I cannot wait to read the third. I am glad to put you on my list of favourite authors, along with anne rice, sara douglass and j r tolkien.
the best thing about your books is the way they have a fairy tale quality to them with out losing the sinister quality of the villians.
I am almost scared to start the last book, because I know i won't be able to put it down, and I will have read the last word, and be sad, knowing that there is no more to read.
I would sincerly like to thank you for writing a wonderful set of books, that has rekindled the spark of imagination in my heart, and brought much inspiration to my life.
absynthe
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From: "Jessica Wong"
Subject: Amazing read!
Date: Sat, 22 Mar 2003 01:05:17 +0000
Ms. Dart-Thornton,
I don't usually give out comments on the books that i read, but the first two books of the Bitterbynde trilogy were so beautifully written that i HAD to say something. Mystery lingers over the main character from the moment you read the first page. It sucks you into the whole magnificence of it all and does its damnest not to let you go. I love the way you describe your fantasy world and all the effort you put into it so that we may see what you see.
I've been an avid Fantasy reader for a couple of years now.... and to tell you the truth, i've been a little bit dissapointed with some of the books i've read in the past few months. Your books have given me new passion and faith in the fantasy genre.
I am eagerly waiting for the Battle of Evernight to come out in Britain. The suspense is killing me!
-jess-
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(Slightly editedso as not to reveal surprises)
From: "Morgan Saunby"
Subject: The Bitterbynde Trilogy
Date: Fri, 14 Mar 2003 04:25:29 +0000
Dear Ms Thornton,
I will have to congratulate you on your trilogy!! It has enraptured me for the past year. I have never read such well written pieces of literature for a while.
I first picked up The Ill Made Mute at the bookstore where I live and I was instantly intrigued!! I bought it and began reading it and I didn't put it down for three days. As soon as I finished The Ill Made Mute I had to buy The Lady of The Sorrows and I was not disappointed. Then The Battle of Evernight came out and although I was busy, I read it over the next couple of months and I didn't want it to end. When I finally did finish it a couple of days ago, I couldn't believe the ending. It was absolutely heart wrenching. I was in tears and (i am still in) disbelief!! Call me a hopeless romantic. . . although the ending was very good and it was a complete surprise. . . I was wondering why did you choose to end the story this way??
Once again, congratulations on writing such excellent, thought provoking books and I can't wait for any of your further works!!
Yours Sincerely Morgan Saunby.
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(Slightly editedso as not to reveal surprises)
From: "DJ SpeCtre"
Subject: The *Bitter*bynde; Book III
Date: Thu, 13 Mar 2003 08:53:38 +1100
Dear Cecilia,
I'm Andrew, an eighteen-year-old University student from Melbourne, Australia. I once contacted you regarding a question or two I had about the ending of the Lady Of The Sorrows. Apart from that I haven't visited your site or had any insight into the rest of the tale or people's opinions on it besides what was already supplied at the beginning of the books themselves.
Last night I finished reading the Bitterbynde, book III: The Battle Of Evernight, and I was totally speechless for about an hour.
I loved it, absolutely loved it. It would be saying a lot for me, as an eighteen year old guy, to admit it made me very emotional at the ending.
At the same time I just cannot accept the ending. . . I came to really love the characters, Ashalind especially. ... My question to you is, didn't your heart-strings get wrenched and heart-broken while writing the conclusion yourself? You have succeeded in making me feel great loss and sorrow over the very *bitter*-sweet ending.
What hope or comfort is offered in that but a whisper of a myth that can never be proven?
. . . Will there be other stories of Erith, or Faerie? Of Angavar? Of Ashalind?
...Please say there will be. The world you have created, although now scarred in many ways, is not one that should die with the conclusion of but one trilogy.
I am a huge fan, extremely greatful that you have touched my life so deeply with these books. I have recommended them to everyone I know, and three of my friends are reading them, including my girlfriend.
The hardest part is not being able to talk to them about the ending because they haven't read it yet. Holding back; it's unbearable! So I thought I would vent my emotions through emailing you instead.
Thankyou again, you are wonderful, my favourite writer, author of a series that would no doubt topple Lord Of The Rings from it's great throne, if only the world wasn't so set in it's ways.
Thankyou with all my heart,
-Andrew
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From: "Anna Tordai"
Subject: Your books
Date: Mon, 03 Mar 2003 23:21:17 +0100
They say never judge a book by its cover. But I did. The Ill-made Mute had such a beautiful cover I bought it on an impulse.
Although my mother-tongue is anything but English I'd like to think I can muddle through most books without resorting to dictionaries. I started reading the book and although I understood generally everything it annoyed me that the descriptions only gave me a vague idea of what things looked like. So I decided to go about it another way. I started rereading the book with a notebook on the side writing down all the words I wasn't sure about.
After reading both the Ill-made Mute and The Lady of Sorrows I ended up with about 800 new words I had not known the exact meaning of until then. But not only have the books tremendously enriched my vocabulary but it is also one of the best fantasy I have ever read. The characters touched my heart and I frequently felt that tight squeeze in my chest whenever the plot suddenly changed course. The world of Erith is unlike any other I have read about populated with creatures I had not heard of before and has sparked my interest in English folklore. The last book of the trilogy has not yet appeared in Europe to my knowledge but I will be sure to pick it up as soon as it arrives. Until then I can merely speculate as to the fate of Ashalind and Thorn.
Thank you so much for writing so beautifully and spinning such a wonderful story.
Best Regards
Anna
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From: "Cecilia Sanz"
Subject: Hi! Great book!
Date: Sun, 02 Mar 2003 00:07:56 -0600
Dear Cecilia:
I am an 18 year old, voracious reader and fantasy fan (JRR Tolkien’s books included, of course) from Mexico City who, by mere chance, read your wonderful, beautiful book "The Ill-Made Mute". You see, my mother went to Australia on a business trip and, knowing how much I love reading fantasy and how hard is to find that genre here, while looking for a present for me, found your books and decided to bought them…and wow! It was a great decision!!
From the moment I began reading it until I finally reached the thrilling ending, I could hardly put the book down! I love the way you created a fresh new world, with nothing common or too used before. Besides, I absolutely love the way you begin the book and how the plot develops, how one discovers all there is to know about Erith along with this strange creature, who later will become the well-liked Imrhien…and Thorn, what can I say? I LOVE him too. He is kind and wise and this mysterious, intriguing touch you give him makes me like him even more; not to mention how handsome he is…I sincerely dislike when you killed Sianadh, why!? He was such a nice guy…sniff, sniff…I really, really liked him…sniff, sniff
I have only two more things to say about your book: thank you for writing such an exciting and fair story and congratulations! you wrote a great book. I am eagerly waiting to start the second (which I already have) and the third (which, sadly, I do not have since it had not yet been published when my mother went to Australia) and to read whatever else you write.
Cecil L.Sanz
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Date/Time of Posting: Feb 20 2003 / 02:31:39
name = Jule Barten
where = Caboolture, Queensland
comments = I've just finished reading 'The Lady of the Sorrows' and I can't stop thinking about this wonderful fantasy. In these uncertain times for the world as we know it, how wonderful it is to have the opportunity to escape to the 'Lands of Erith' and be immersed in all of it's wonders and surprises. I can't wait to start on the third book in the trilogy and wish to thank-you for the joy you have brought to myself and the readers of the world. May you be blessed with peace, love and happiness always.
Kind Regards, Jule
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Date/Time of Posting: Feb 14 2003 / 01:53:37
name = Kellyann
where = Wollongong, NSW, Australia
comments = Ms Dart-Thornton
I'm 13 and I just finished reading The Battle of Evernight. It was sooooo good. The only problem I can find is if you try to explain the book to someone it is very difficult. You start simply, but as the books go on the plot just thickens and thickens and you have to keep going back and re-explaining things.
I really liked the poetry and songs in the books and at the start of the chapters. I especially liked Ergaiorn's Lament.
Dear Kellyann,
Thank you for your message. You did not leave a return address, or I would have replied personally.
Kind regards,
Cecilia Dart-Thornton.
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From: Charisma
Date: Sat, 1 Feb 2003 07:01:14 EST
Subject: beautifully written books
Mrs Dart-thornton,
Last year while looking for yet another fantasy book to captivate my imagination, my eye was drawn to the title 'The I'll-Made Mute'. After reading the brief synopsis my attention was caught at the mention of 'handspeak' as I my self am studying my final year of Sign Language interpreting in Britain.
Unfortunatley your book sat on my shelf for quiet a number of months making way for the more allegidly well know authors, for which I can now only send my syncerist appolgies. Untill finally when studying for my end of semester assessments I began to read your book, initially as an escape from my overwhelming and slowly increasing work load, only to find one of the most beautifully written, intriguing and detailed book I have ever read aside from 'Lord of the Rings', not to mention your research into and use of English folk lord, my home lands legends of which I know very little about.
However, rest assured I now fully intend to do some reseach of my own.
I found myself unable to relinquish your book even for a moment, astounded by the characters human, seelie and unseelie and of course the slowing unraveling romantic plot (being the helpless romantic that I am) between the heroin Imrhien and her bold and dashing Dainnain lover Thorn. I have to say that Thorn sounds like every womans ideal man!
No sooner as I finished 'Mute', I ran to the local book shop yet again to purchase a copy of 'Lady of the Sorrows', which I could not believe was even more mystical, intriguing and romantic than the first. Indeed I enjoyed your second book so much I devoured it in no less than three days, only to find that the third book of the 'Bitterbynde trilogy' will not be available in the UK untill September 2003 which I can tell you was a bitter blow! And so, I did what I promised I would never do, I purchased 'The Battle of Evernight' over the internet and am now impatiently awaiting its delivery.
Yet, I now find myself some what troubled after reading some of your other avid fans emails, and my I say being astounded at the young age, in some cases 12, they have read and equally enjoyed and appreciated your hard work as much as I, the impression is given that the ending is not as I had hoped (Imrhien and Thorn finally together at last) but possibily quite sad! Alas, I shall have to wait to find this out.
Finally and most importantly, the main reason I found myself compled to write this email, is to simply say thankyou for writting such magical and captivating books, and to send my best wishes with any future books you decide to write.
Once again thankyou for the joy of readingyour books.
Charlotte.
P.S. There is just two questions that have been nagging at my conscious after reading your book which I have benn unable to fathom, perhaps the answer could be posted on your FAQ's page? What did Thorn wish to ask Imrhien in 'Mute', but said could not be possible, before kissing and leaving her in White Down Rory? And what was it the the carlin Maeve One-Eye saw upon touching and later seeing Imrhien's face?
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From: "Cecelia Kearins"
Subject: Bravo
Date: Wed, 29 Jan 2003 08:57:14 +0000
Dear Cecilia
I commend you on your great success. It is wonderful to read a book with so many themes and point of views. Since your writing was brought to my attention by my elder sister, I have a new outlook on life.
Thank you.
Yours Sincerly
Cecelia Kearins
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From: "Alexandra Bulens"
Date: Sun, 26 Jan 2003 18:33:55 +0100
I read Cecilia's first book a couple of months ago and it was just brilliant. I really really enjoyed it. i'm a big fantasy fan and she's up there with the best of them. It's a beautiful and informative site too. I had no idea she was Australian. I'm just a bit jealous of all those Australian readers, they get book tours and so. And all the englishspeaking readers get great interviews in magazines we don't have here in Belgium. And what i'm most jealous of is that all the englishspeaking people have more books to read from cecilia. there's only one translated into flemmish and i have no idea how long we have to wait for the next one.
Cecilia, i hope you keep writing for many many years to come cause you are
sooooooooooooooooooooooo great!! alexandra
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From: "Jarrod Hammond"
Subject: Book (What else?)
Date: Fri, 24 Jan 2003 17:12:52 -0600
Ms. Dart-Thornton-
I just finished reading "The Ill-Made Mute," which I picked up at a bookstore at random while looking for an author of whom I had never heard. The rather off-beat title and curious description of your novel convinced me to pick it up, and I read it over the course of about a month. I wanted to take the novel rather slowly; besides my schoolwork and other books I read simultaneously, I loved your writing so much that I didn't want to glaze over it too quickly. I often thought of Peter S. Beagle and Tolkien (which I know you get quite often, but there's reason for it!), who both had the defining charm and exactitude in their writing which set them apart from other fantasy authors.
What I enjoyed most about your book was your use of the more obscure fantasy elements from folklore and legend rather than the hackneyed standards of elves and orcs that so many authors depend upon nowadays. I've been enthralled with these types of creatures ever since I found a book on faeries illustrated by Brian Froud, whose artwork is just as enchanting as your book. Traditional critters of the seelie realms are difficult to find in modern literature; thank you for bringing about a fresh perspective to fantasy.
Since I have little to say that you haven't heard before, I'd just like to reiterate how much I enjoyed your book and wish you good fortune in years to come.
-Jarrod Hammond
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Date: Sat, 25 Jan 2003 10:02:49 +1300
From: "Tanya Borck"
To: dartthornton@yahoo.co.ukFantastic series. I have just ordered the third book ahave to wait for it to arrive from Australia. It is great to have an author from this part of the world equal to the other great fantasy writers.
Tanya Borck
Marlborough
New Zealand
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From: "Sam Pisansarakit"
Subject: Hi Cecilia
Date: Fri, 24 Jan 2003 14:55:23 +1100Hi Cecilia,
Just wanted to say great work on the Bitterbynde. I've been working my way through just about every book written in this genre and it's nice to see a bit of originality coming through... I think I'm in love with Imrhien hehe.
Keep it up - No force in the world is quite as strong as creative energy, and you'll be an inspiration for the next generation of writers.
One of your many fans
Sam
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From: hey_chicky
Date: Mon, 20 Jan 2003 18:02:59 +0930I would just like to say that The Bitterbynde books are a rare piece of art. I like the way that the story isn't always about good Vs. evil. I think Cecilia Dart-Thornton is a wonderful author of rare talent. Well done, and don't stop writing.
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From: "Winter Girl"
Date: Sun, 19 Jan 2003 21:21:00 -0800
I have just finished reading the Lady of the Sorrows, and I must say I was quite impressed! A long time has passed since I have read such a heart-wrenching novel with such detailed description! If you have the time, could you answer me a question? How long does it take you to write one novel- such as the Lady of the Sorrows? And how long does it take to plan it? Truly I cannot wait until the "Battle of Evernight" comes out. Thank you.
Dorota Lockyer
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From: "Sandra Jane Wretham"
Subject: congrats
Date: Wed, 1 Jan 2003 20:50:47 +1000
Well done!
I have to say I was a bit worried there for a moment but I loved your stunning conclusion to the Bitterbynde trilogy.
I love the more detailed map in the final book. It helped me to get my head around where they were travelling and I must say they did cover a lot of ground in that book!
I hope to read more from you in the future. I will certainly keep an eye out in the book stores.
Once again congratulations on a fantastic series in every sence of the word.
SJW :)
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From: "jessie s"
Date: Mon, 23 Dec 2002 22:13:50 +1100
hi,
i'm 12 and i thought your books were gr8. the last one, the battle of evernight, had a very surprising ending. just as i thought it would all turn out happily ever after , she entered the gate and returned seven years later.
i was just a little confused at the ending, though. what was the significance of the two, ashalind and angavar turning into birds, and why did they? What happened then? Did they return to faeren world and remain as birds or transform back into humans and live happily ever after?
I was also wondering at the sad ending in Erith. The land lost their sildron and so their economy must have fallen and many of the main characters ended up living unhappy or unfulfilled lives. Such as Ciatri, wasn't she supposed to get land and an estate? And Edward who ended up sad that he didn't have his most desired love?
The whole series was wonderful, and i loved reading it. My favourite book was number 2, the lady of the sorrows. I loved the eldritch creatures, seelie and unseelie and i loved the fearen.
I think you're ideas were wonderful, and it was a magnificent first series.
Are you going to or in the process of writing another series? If so could you please give me some hints as to what it is about?
Well sone on having such huge success on your first novels.
Jess.
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From: "Amy So"
Subject: The Bitterbynde
Date: Sun, 22 Dec 2002 20:55:18 +1100
Ms Dart-Thornton,
I might be a bit young for your books but that just proves anyone can be captivated by them. I am twelve and well, your books have lured me to them, as a magnet draws a pin, since I saw them on the bookshelf at a shop. I find them brilliant and beautiful. I have one question to ask you, should I expect anymore books to come from you. I dearly hope so, for your books are fantastic. I have read the Ill-Made Mute and the Lady of Sorrows. I finished each one in a day. I am now endeavouring on reading The Battle of Evernight. So far, in my humble opinion, it is mystic and like the stars on a clear night atop a mountain. I have read many books, many adults' books for the lesser ones no longer interest me, and yours ranks among my most favoured. I have read Robert Jordans and David Eddings, Hugh Cook and many more and yours, I would have to say, would have to rank near the top.
From a devout soul touched by the Bitterbynde
Bonnie
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From: "Marie Efstathiou"
Subject: Totally Amazed!
Date: Sat, 21 Dec 2002 16:31:05 +1100
Dear Cecilia
I must be one of your biggest fans. I am completely in love with the Bitterbynde Trilogy!! Untill i read the most recent one, i thought the lade of the Sorrows was my favourite book ever, but after reading The Battle of Evernight I have totally reconsidered! They are excellent, and could not put them down! I was crying at the end of the third, and i had to re-read the ending and the Epilogue about 5 times! I read the Ill-Made Mute on a trip to Melbourne, and then I had to buy the Lady of the Sorrows! I coudn't wait for the third to come out!! I was going to my local Borders every few days to find out whether it was out yet, or exactly when it would be coming out! When I finally got it, I sat in my room reading it for 3 days straight! It is easily my favourite trilogy. I got my friend into them, and right as I write this she is readint the third book!! She loves them to, and while we were waiting for the third, we would sit for hours discussing them, and possible endings, but neither of us picked the exact ending, although we picked parts of it.
The books are so magical, and full of intriging characters, I did a report on the Lady of the Sorrows for school. It shows that true love will always triumph, and it has a most spellbinding story line, filled with legend and creativity. The story is amazing, and I wish it would never end.
I wish you the best of luck with your next novels, and I'm sure they will be as compelling as the Bitterbynde Trilogy, I will read them all. You have an amazing way with words and an incredible imagination! I was also wondering if there was any way of getting my books signed???
Marie
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