Review- Silent Orchids (The Age of Alandria 1)

Title: Silent Orchids

Author: Morgan Wylie

Series: The Age of Alandria book 1

Rating: 5/5

Summary
A dying realm.
The ancient evil of the Droch-Shúil has been unleashed. 
The Orchids have been silenced… but for how long?
Daegan, elite of the Ferrishyn warrior tribe of Faeries, is charged with a mission to find the Sol-lumieth, a mysterious new power that could change the fate of all in the realm of Alandria. But he is conflicted by his purpose, and he cannot trust the motives of those he serves. He has too many questions and they must be answered.
Kaeleigh, a girl abandoned as a small child just outside Missoula, Montana, is now 18. She is trying to discover who she is and where she belongs. In her heart, she feels she has family out there… somewhere. Desperate to unravel the mysteries of her past, she embarks on a journey that will forever change her along with her two best friends, Finn and Chel—who have secrets of their own.

My Review
This was book of the week for my book group and I got it free on amazon (not free in Canada at the time of review, but free on Kobo)and let me tell you, you need to get a copy cause you will enjoy yourself I know I did. This book was a fantastic tale of Faeries, Elves, Shifters, a dying land, and that lands last hope a young girl who is not what everyone expected but may just turn out to be exactly what they need. Now if that doesn't sound awesome then go away cause this review is not for you cause I loved it and I am about to rave about it.
I have read my fair share of Faerie stories some containing Elves and Shifters as well like this one but not all, most of the stories are the classic summer court, winter court thing and truth be told I am a little over it, but that's what is so great about this book it is not that at all it is it's own unique take, and no this is not the only one with the difference I have read and enjoyed others (Mark of the princess for example) but this this book is now in the top of my fantasy list because I love how much thought the author put into this world, it's history, and the history of the different races and creatures that live within the world. I feel like I only got a glimpse of what was and what may come to be and my only complaint is the amount of secrets, not that people had them cause everyone does but that they would not share, it made me frustrated but I hope when I read on in the series I get the answers I seek.
The love able group of four were easy to get attached to and root for, but I am also a little suspicious based on all the secrets and unknown factors. I am very curious about Kaeleigh and I feel for her, wanting to know who and what she is while also trying to keep faith in her loved ones that they have her best interests at heart. I love her spunk and bravery, I am as anxious as she is to find answers, with Fin, Chel, and Daegan to help her I think, no I know she will be safe if not stumbling along a bit on her way. Daegan that big sexy mystery I want to know what his deal is and why he is so connected to Kaeleigh, I'm not sure I totally trust him I know he wants to protect her but I can't stop thinking about the crazy Queen, I hope his feeling for Kaeleigh win. Fin may be moody and secretive but I think I like him more, I believe his motives and trust he will do his best to be a protector. Everyone needs a best friend like Chel and I can't wait to learn more about her past and her gifts.
I bought book two when I was 80% done this one, cause I knew I would have to continue on, so it's on to book two and as I do I hope people are picking up this one and starting this fun and exciting series.
Also I really must mention that I love love love this cover it is very beautiful.