Blog Tour - Firstborn by Lorie Ann Grover + GIVEAWAY

Hello Everyone,

Welcome to my stop in the FIRSTBORN OFFICIAL BLOG TOUR!

Synopsis
Tiadone has been forced to live her entire life as a female accepted as male in her community in order to survive as a firstborn child. But when she needs to pass the rites of manhood, she finds the Creator may have use for her feminine traits after all.

My Review:

A lot of people pick up books based on the cover appeal. Yes, I appreciate a beautiful cover as well, but I am really big on a synopsis. I remember coming across this book at the library. I was picking up my holds for the week, when a I saw this book amongst another library patrons holds. Yes - I am that person who checks to see what books other people read. And that's when I first came across FIRSTBORN. All I have to say that I was blown away by the synopsis. The premise was new and fresh and a book I really wanted to get my hands on.

Almost a couple days later, I received an invite to join the blog tour for the very same book! Kismet anyone?

Let me just say that this book had me crying on the very first two pages. There are not very many books that I may say that about. But after I dried away my tears, I was captivated by the beautiful writing style. Lorie Ann is an extremely lyrical writer who has developed such an intriguing story and frankly a story that holds true in certain parts of this world.

Our main character Tiadone, is born into a tribe which values Firstborn males. Their faith has them believe that the first born in blessed with the strength to carry on and protect not only the family but the entire tribe. If the firstborn is a female, then that is wasted. Therefore families have two options, either send their daughters away or declare them a male. Each child is also given an egg to watch and take care of. A beautiful bird will hatch that will stand with them as they mature. Each person becomes one with their bird and the birds are as integral to their tribe as firstborn males are. When Tiadone's egg is hatched, she is ecstatic and ready to meet her lifelong partner and friend, but just like her, the bird is not what it seems, as it opens its beak and a song comes out. These birds are meant to be silent and hers can sing. As Tiadone has reached maturity, will she be able to live up the roles and expectations of a declared male? Will she be able to control her femininity? Will her Rapion be accepted as be? So much happens in this book, that you have to check out yourself to truly find out how incredible it is.

You guys seriously this book is absolutely amazing. There is so much wrapped into it, that I can't even begin to do it justice. Its one of those books that no only will keep you absorbed with its beautiful story line and writing, but it also stays on your mind and is a book you want to discuss about even well after its over. Tiadone's quest to prove her self-worth but at the same time deal with the struggles of starting to feel like a woman is something we can all relate to. Not necessarily in the same dynamic. But this is a modern issue, with women wanting to be a good wife and mother, but also be successful in their careers and take care of their families. I loved the relationship between Tiadone and her Rapion. It was beautiful to read how Tiadone, protected him the same way as she wanted everyone to accept her as a declared male.

The action and training in this story was fun and addicting to read. And yes guys, there is some romance thrown in. Not too much, but enough to feel Tiadone's struggle once again. And that ending! YIKES.

Action, a beautiful personal struggle, a captivating, ORIGINAL story and a fantastic writing? This was a definite 5 star for me!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lorie Ann Grover is an awarded YA novelist and board book author whose works include Kirkus Starred Review, Firstborn, and Parents Magazine Best Children’s Book, Bedtime Kiss for Little Fish. She co-founded readergirlz and readertotz. Living with her husband in the foothills of Mt. Rainier, she writes, practices weapons tai chi, and watches hawks take flight.