A Rose Among the Ruins

The story begins as a tale told by a minstrel to the king. A tale he dare not tell in every court. Comrades-in-arms, Rhicer and Kanath have been fighting along side each other since before Kanath was old enough to carry a sword. Together they are the perfect fighting machine, defending their beautiful Ageselm from Mordyn. Richer does not have many close friends. Past heartache has left him broken and wary to allow anyone to get too close. Kanath is one of those rarities with whom Richer has allowed in.
Kanath is a contrast of wisdom and youth. His battle skills and political acumen speaks volumes to his wisdom. Yet, his delight in his penchant for taking things without permission is attestation of youth. He is warned by his friend Rhicer. “One day my friend your light-fingered ways will get us killed.” Kanath once again ignores the warning and swipes a bottle of wine he assumes is one of many to be delivered to the King and his future bride. Un-knowingly the bottle he chooses turns out to be a powerful love potion he shares with Rhicer. Kanath’s playful ways many not incur anything as harsh as a loss of life, but his heart? A very real possibility.
A Rose Among the Ruins is an amazing story. It takes you on a journey of desire and love so strong that it leaves you wondering if “the potion” is the real force at work or just the catalyst. Whatever the answer I feel privileged to have taken their journey with them.
A Rose Among the Ruins may have been the first story I read by Ariel Tachna, but it won’t be the last. This talented author was able to reach in and grab my heart and make it sigh.