Medar, the first book in the Realm Trilogy; it’s a roller coaster ride of challenges and setbacks, but also with persistence, triumph. The book tells the story of a young girl with the strength of will to overcome obstacles in pursuit of her goal. This is a powerful and positive message for us all – you can overcome obstacles regardless of age, gender, physical impairment or social status; but you have to want to.
The central character, Freya was adopted at birth when her mother was taken at the bidding of the Evil Master. She was injured as a young child. Scarred and partially blind, she courageously overcomes hurdles in early life. Freya is a curious explorer, discovers a mystical tablet and perseveres to unlock its secrets and reveal its hidden messages.
Freya’s family live in a land surrounded by a deep chasm & beyond that a high wall. Local tales say these barriers are impenetrable; no-one knows what is beyond. Family fortunes seem to take a turn for the better when they are selected to enter the golden city, but Freya is not accepted and instead is taken away to the pit. Her family assume she is dead, but find she is still alive when they see her face on wanted posters. Freya has escaped the Pit and with the help of the Watchers, pushes on to find out what is beyond the chasm & the wall.

Really enjoyed reading Medar and eargerly await the next book in this series. The story draws you in. I liked the Freya character because she wasn’t the standard “pretty and strong” heroine that most books have. The themes that run through the story make you think and consider your own views. An enjoyable read for the tweenage (although as an adult I enjoyed it). The writer has clearly done her homework- especially with the wrestling:-)