I really liked this book. About thirty pages in I didn't want to stop reading. A lot of people have commented on how they didn't like Elisa's character. I'm just the opposite. I could relate to her, and I think a lot of teens will relate to her also. I liked that Elisa knew she was meant for something great, but didn't feel worthy or ready for that responsibility. I liked the way she came into her "calling" as the bearer over time and through trials. Sometimes we don't know what we are capable of until we are put into a position that stretches us. I was glad Elisa wasn't the usual type of heroine. For me this book felt like a mix between The Goose Girl, The Pillars of the Earth, and had a little bit of a feel like Fat Catat the beginning, but unique to itself at the same time. There was action, adventure, and interesting romance. I thought it was really well done. 
 First read April 29-30, 2012