The Shamra Chronicles

CURSE OF THE SHAMRA

By:  Barry Hoffman

FIRST SENTENCE

“Tell us a story, Pilla,” Justin asked, when Pilla and Dara entered the children’s play area.”

SUMMARY

From goodreads

Curse of the Shamra is a rousing adventure tale about the isolated and peaceful land of the Shamra people who are enslaved by invaders called the Trocs. An unconventional young Shamra girl named Dara escapes and ventures into unknown realms to find allies and leads a resistance to repel the invaders. The novel is an allegory about the quest for freedom on many levels.

SHAMRA DIVIDED

FIRST SENTENCE

“Are you alright?” a voice said, laughing.”

SUMMARY

From goodreads

In Shamra Divided Dara, leader of the resistance movement that overthrew her country's oppressors, learns why she looks and acts different than most other Shamra and why it was her destiny to one day save her people. While learning about her heritage she is also attacked by what will become her most powerful enemy, Chaos. Dormant for 170 years Chaos reappears intent on destroying civilizations from within and killing Dara whom he fears. An action-packed adventure full of heroics, sacrifice and betrayal. In Dara and her ancestors Shamra Divided provides strong and complex females that adolescents and teens can relate to.

REVIEW

Dara was a strong-willed and spirited girl who did not bend to the status quo.  I liked that she did not back down on her beliefs and that she was brave in the face of evil.  Dara was not like the typical Shamra girls who were timid and afraid to speak up. 

In the first book, I was a little overwhelmed by the violence and sadness brought on by the Trocs.  Thankfully, the plot turned happier in the second book as Dara went on an adventure to find her heritage.  I loved that she found her clan and that Briana told her stories about her ancestors.  That was my favorite part.

Overall, these books touch on many emotions.  I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Shamra Chronicles series, Chaos Unleashed, coming out in 2011.  Thank you to Barry Hoffman for sending these books to me for review.

RATING

4        Plot

5        Characters

5        Attention Grabbing

3        Girlie Meter

4        Ending

21      TOTAL

5        STARS

Melina