Enter the world of the Trees of Man with Vedientir By Ivan Hladni

 

Title: Vedientir

Author: Ivan Hladni

Source: ebook

Genre: Fantasy

Rating: 4 paws up

The alliance of the four kingdoms crumbles when armies belonging to powerful horrors from an era before time itself existed break their way through the Great Trees from the old "Slavic" speaking world of magic and gods into the "English" speaking world of mankind.

Dion, a young man in his early twenties, is then thrust out of the besieged city of Echa on a task to get help from the king, but finds that their kingdom is no longer the safe haven it once was. Things have come out of the Great Trees that have not lived in the world outside of old wives' tales, and Nightmares walk the earth, but not everything is lost...

This light-hearted book is full of action, magic and humor, and the main characters in it are young, especially the dragon, Zmai, who is one year old, or as he said to king Valan - he is "edna rok star", since he does not speak English, but fortunately for the dragon, Dion speaks the Old language and can talk to the dragon and translate for us.

I won this in a goodreads giveaway I cannot believe it took me so long to read it. It is a book that will stick with me and I will recommend to others.  I honestly did not expect to like it as much as I did. This is a story that I did not expect to just blow me away. Simply love Dion, Kerkio and Zmai as well. There is so much in this novel that keeps you hanging on the edge of your seat.  Dion is the character that doesn't see his strength and thinks everyone baby's him but then comes to realize how strong and important he truly is and what he can do to help save his city.  Kerkio is the type of friend everyone needs.  He's lifting Dion up and reminding him that they are companions, friends, not babysitter.  I think there is more to Kerkio than what we see, he's a force to be reckonded with.  And Zmai, that is there not to love about a young dragon who imprinted on his rescuer??   I love the acorns of the great Oak trees and the mythos that is with in this novel. Hladni creates his own culture and mythos that makes me simply want more.  I love the use of acorns as magical reagents to travel between cities, summon elementals, and so much more that we didn't really get to see yet in this book, but you just know is more.  The book leaves it open for more novels and I hope Ivan Hladni writes more, I checked this afternoon and it doesn't look like there is one yet. I don't know what else I could compre this novel too, there is nothing else quite like it. I could really see this book game made into a movie I wish it would be.

Review: Crown of Feathers

   

Title: Crown of Feathers
Author: Nicki Pau Preto
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Kindle e-Book
Rating 5 out of 5 paws


Veronyka is an orphan who has dream of becoming a Phoenix Rider, like those from the stories she grew up on.  Veronyka has a fight with her sister who in turn betrays her in the worst way and Veronyka begins her journey to find the mysterious Riders.  This means disguising herself as a boy so she could join their ranks if she happens to find them. Everything is going fine until her sister suddenly shows up and reveals a web of lies that changes everything Veronyka thought she knew.  The empire has learned of the return of the Phoenix riders and intends to destroy them all.

This was a book that I didn't know I needed.  First off let me say how amazing it is that phoenixes are utilized in this book rather than the typical dragon we tend to see in fantasy novels. Now that is all I want!  I want more phoenixes in my life, so much so that I have the next books slated to be read within a few days.  I think this book has made me love phoenixes more than I love dragons.  Not many authors utilize them in their stories to the fullest potential and I am so happy that Nicki Pau Preto has done just that and made them into majestic creatures that they are.


While we read through this story of people recovering from a brutal war and a young woman trying to find her place in this world, we are introduced to unique world with it's own history.  I love that Pau Preto has included so much of the history in the novel, that you feel like you know the people, know who they are and where they've been.  It is very evident that she took the time to plan out her story and how she wanted things to unfold.


The plot was a little slow building but it was very character based which is so interesting and makes you connect with the characters and with this being the first book in the series, you want some background and depth to your characters.  It takes a little while to build up to the heart of the story, but when it does you become so sucked into the story that you don't want to do anything else (I didn't want to go to work, but I had too). 

While the book may not be for everyone because there is a lot of info dumping and takes time to build up, but I found it to be one of those books that you are excited to read, and need to take a minute once you have finished.  The next book Heart of Flames is a bit bigger coming in at 619 pages, but I am so ready to tackle it.

WitchBorn

Title:  Witch Born
Author: Nicholas Bowing
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Library Hardback
Rating: 3 out of 5 paws

Alyce's mother is brutually burned at the stake when she was a young girl.  Witchhunters return to her home in search of Alyce, in a fit of self defense, Alyce manages to kill the hunter.  But she is captured and taken to an asylum, which she manages to escape after sometime and befriends an actor and innkeeper.  She knows she needs to find a Mr. John Dee, but she doesn't know what to expect when she finds him.  While she searches, witchhunters continue to hunt for her and Alyce manages to find herself in the company of actors who happen to be living in Queen Elizabeth I's palace.  Throughout her trials Alyce continues to wonder why her, why is she so important.  Caught in the battle between two Queens Alyce now has the fate of England on her shoulders.  Can she manage it?

I wonder why so many authors use Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary as witches in stories, granted I have only read two that utilize this, but I am sure there are more.  Let me just say this novel was nothing like what I was expecting it to be.  I expected a suspenseful novel of a young girl coming into her powers (yes there was that, but I don't think enough) trying to hide from a group of neredowells.  What we get is a young girl who sort of stumbles onto her powers I don't even remember when or how they began to manifest, but nothing extravagant.  We also have villains looking for her, but it seems all to easy that they find her basically in the second place they look.

I love love fantasy novels with witches and such, but this one seemed like a little bit of a let down for me and that makes me sad.  I was so excited to read this because it felt like a fantastic book.  I was able to predict almost everything that happened, the big "twist" towards the end was very predictable though I told myself it would be what I thought it was.  Overall it was kind of meh for me while reading.  I didn't find it super exciting or super dull.  It held pace, held my attention and had characters that could be more than what they were.  I enjoy Solomon a lot and wanted to see more from him, even maybe a little bit of magic from him too.  Like an opps kind of thing for him.

Young adult fantasy lovers I think would find this book enjoyable.  I would recommend it because even if it was the end all books for me, someone else might find it the best book they read this year.  I find myself more of a Deborah Harkness kind of witch lover.  Check it out for yourself see what you think. 

Daughter of the Pirate King

Title: Daughter of the Pirate King
Author: Tricia Levenseller
Genre: Fantasy, YA
Source: Library Hardback
Rating2.5 out of 5 stars.

Alosa's father sent her out on a secret mission, to find and steal a piece to a treasure map, one that will lead the pirate to a secret treasure trove.  In order to do so, Alosa must allow herself to be kidnapped by the pirates who hold this piece.  But the only thing standing in her way of success is the first mate: Riden.  Not only is he her captor/guard, but also devilishly handsome.  She must somehow keep him occupied while she searches the ship for what her father desires.  She has many tricks up her sleeves to accomplish her goals, no one can stop the pirate princess.

 

I was intrigued with this novel, a little unsure of what to expect from it, but it wasn't as impressed as I had hoped I would be. I felt "meh" about this book and didn't fully care if I finished the book or not. I almost didn't, but kept with it because I had started it.  It wasn't overly entertaining or thrilling.  Just....meh.  There wasn't anything that really made me excited about this book.  Alosa spent most of her time trying to seduce one of the brothers so she can search their chambers, or trying to figure out her feelings for Riden, or talking about how great she is, but she kept getting caught hmm.  There didn't seem to be much action nor did it seem like there was any urgency for Alosa to find the treasure map.

I couldn't stand the characters I wanted to like them so much but there was so much wrong with them.  Such as Riden just standing by while Alosa is assaulted and virtually abused because in his mind she was able to handle herself and situation...say what?  But then gets upset and jealous when she mentions his brother's assault, not because of the brother harming her, but because he thought she had sex with him whether it was consensual or not..there's something wrong with that there. 

There was one element that could have been interesting if it wasn't thrown into the story almost out of nowhere, like the author liked the idea but didn't know how to incorporate it into the story properly and just boom magical elements.  The tale wasn't all that streamlined and bits were just thrown about haphazardly.

I don't think I would recommend this to too many people.  It had so much potential only to fall way way short of the mark.

Discovery of Witches

Title: A Discovery of Witches
Author:Deborah Harkess
Genre: Fantasy, Magic
Source: Library Hardback
Rating: 5 out of 5 paws

Diana Bishop is doing research when she comes across an old manuscript, thought to be lost.  Upon further inspection she finds the manuscript is different that the others she has read.  Diana comes from a long line of powerful witches, and she wants nothing to do with that life, but because of her connection with the manuscript all sorts of creatures are looking for her.  Members of each race descend upon the library and Diana has no choice but to turn to handsome vampire Matthew Clemont to help her discover the truth about the manuscript and herself.  But soon Diana finds herself face to face with her powers and her fears.  She must learn what her powers are and how to control them. She will find herself traveling outside her comfort zone and facing dangers untold and unspeakable horrors, but she will also find her way to guidance and assistance, to the one who will help her understand her new life.  How will she be able to unlock the secrets hidden within the manuscript?

 



This book series has been recommended countless times from book store staff to friends, and those in my book club group on facebook.  Because of all the glowing fantastic reviews, I decided to pick this one and see what all the fuss was about. I am so glad that I did, I enjoyed this novel more than I expected too.  I like the alchemy aspect of it because I love the idea of alchemy and hope the series continues with this.  I love that Diana is in her 30's (I think) and she is still learning about herself and the world around her.

The story is very vivid and easy to picture the world Harkess has created, but sometimes it was a little too much description, but I still enjoyed it none the less.  I love that it felt like she knew what was talking about down to ruins, covens and practices.  She must have done her research or was already familiar with some aspects of the culture.  I love love that she included that.  I don't think many authors really create a culture within their worlds, but Harkess does just that.  She creates something new and exciting to read.  I couldn't stop reading!

There was a bit of action and explanation throughout the story.  When there was an action scene it was exciting and thrilling to read, Harkess did not hold back from the descriptions here.  I enjoyed that there was some romance in this as well, but I wished there was some more action or conflict maybe not so much fighting but confronting one another.  But there is a lot going on in this novel that makes me really excited to pick up the second and see what will happen next.  There are some dark themes and horrible moments, but they are handled well and not overdone.

Overall, I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy novel with witches, vampires, and daemons (not to be confused with demons or fallen angels.)  This book will give you everything you are looking for in an epic tale and leaves you wanting more. 

The Sin Eater's Daughter

Title: Sin Eater's Daughter
Author: Melinda Salisbury
Genre: Fantasy
SOurce: Library Hardback
Rating: 4 out of 5 paws

Twylla spends most of her das inside the castle, where those around her cower in fear of her touch.  She is engaged to the Prince, but hasn't seen him in years, and she isn't a member of the court, but she is goddess-embodied.  This means she has the power to kill anyone with one touch, thus making her the kingdom's executioner.  Every week she must kill traitors to the crown.  When she is given a new guard things begin to change and she discovers things about herself that make her question everything she knows.  A plot is discovered that the queen plans to destroy her enemies, but with the use of an age old legend.  Can legends be real? or are they just legends?  Can Twylla protect those she loves as well as her kingdom or will she abandon all she knows in favor of her love?

I picked this book up on the recommendation of a co-worker.  She basically told me the premise but couldn't remember the title, so I had to do a little research to find it. I am glad my library had it available.

I was drawn in on the premise of Twylla having skin or pores that were poisonous, thats something I have not seen done before and Salisbury did a good job presenting the story, characters, and setting.  I loved that she created a legend for this story and developed the tale around that, and even had other characters skeptical about it.  Thinking the rumors were stuff of fairy tales.

I loves Twylla's character as well as her guard (forgive me his name completely escapes me right now).  He was a character that gives the reader hope and then breaks your heart.  They are both relatable characters 4i enjoyed their banter and relationship.

Overall this book was very enjoyable to read it was a quick read as the story progressed very quickly. I think many young adult and fantasy readers would enjoy this story there's a lot in it that will appeal to readers. I myself look forward to reading the next book in the series.

Thinblade (Sovereign of the Seven Isles #1)

Title: Thinblade
Author: David Wells
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Kindle eBook
Rating: hmm 3.5 out of 5 paws


While out hunting Darius is shot and kill with a poison arrow.  While Alexander and his family mourn the lose of the heir they discover an ancient evil has came back into the world.  Alexander is now marked as the protector of the realm, and the one who could defeat this evil.  He travels to the mountain city of Glen Morillian and discovers before he can claim his throne he must find the Thinblade. Seven were forged to help protect royal bloodlines from evil forces. But the Thinblade was lost to years ago and no one knows where it is hidden.  Alexander begins his quest looking for the Thinblade and gaining alliances all the while fighting against the powers of a necromancer. 

I had this book on my kindle for quite a while from bookbub and it took me some time before I picked it out of the hundreds of books on there.  I almost forgot about it!  I like the idea of this novel: ancient evil has come back and young princling must learn to wield a special sword to defeat him among other things.  There is a lot that happens in this book from various battles to Alexander learning so much about himself.  It is a great beginning to a series.  I am looking forward to getting the other books and finding out what happens next. Lets start by talking about the cover.  Just look at it house gorgeous is it?  No wonder it caught my eye, I want to go there!!


Okay now to the story, it was evenly paced, some parts were slower than others but it seemed to keep an consistent pace throughout the novel.  There was a lot of telling rather than showing, but for me it seemed to work.  Everything was described in great detail, down to the food.  While this may become a little burdensome, it really drew me into the story.  It made me feel like I was there and could almost smell the feast that was happening.  There is some depth to the world that we don't get to see yet, but I am sure we will see in upcoming novels.  Some things we learn as characters learn them and I absolutely love it.  It makes feel like I am sitting beside Alexander listening to stories being told.  It is definitely a TELLING story, and I wonder if that will change once we have all the information we need and get into the heart of the epic tale.


The magic is a bit interesting in this in that mages aren't born with this innate talent (well some are) but develop it through trial and fasting.  The more talented you are the more specialized your magic is which is rather interesting.  I would have liked to have seen more of this throughout the story.  I also like the alchemy aspect of this with the potions and herb usage.  I like that Alexander appears to be rather powerful, but at this point he is too powerful for one who hasn't trained in his magic.


I would recommend it for those who like novels along the lines of Dragonlance.

The Scourge

 

Title: The Scourge
Author: Jennifer Nielsen
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Library Hardback
Rating: 4 out of 5 paws


A deadly plague threatens the land.  Ani is trapped in a tree when two guards are looking to bring in some of the river people for testing.  Because she is there, they take her.  She continues to insist that she does not have the Scourge, she tests positive and is sent in exile to Attic Island, a colony to quarantine those who are sick.  Ani quickly learns the truth about the illness, with her best friend Weevil at her side, she is determined to reveal the truth and the horrors that the beloved governor is doing to her own people. Who will succeed, Ani or the Scourge?

I enjoyed reading Jennifer's other book "Traitor's Game" so much that when I seen this one at the library I decided to read it as well.  I was pleasantly surprised at  how much I liked it.  I was a little surprised that this was not a part of a series, I could see where this novel progresses into something longer.  As I neared the end it felt like there is more story to tell here.


Ani is a fearless character who gets herself into trouble quite often because she doesn't know when to let things be.  But then again if she did, she wouldn't have discovered the truth.  She has a smart mouth, is loyal to her friends and will do anything for them.  The theme of friendship is really strong and continues throughout the story as readers see friends stand together in times of sorrow, need, and jubilance.  And out of that friendship love blooms is a sweet thing.  I also loved seeing two characters on opposite ends of the social class learn they aren't so different and form a friendship that goes beyond stereotypes and class structure.


The world within this novel is a little bland, we don't see much setting and world building.  But what the story lacks in that department it makes up in the character building.  Jennifer focuses on her characters and shaping them, making the story be told through them rather than "telling" the story.  It was really interesting to read through the story.  It was really one of those books that I couldn't put down because I wanted to see what each character would do next.


I would recommend it to those who enjoy a good fantasy, unknown illness plaguing the country type of story.  Jennifer Nielsen really knows how to tell a fantastic story that keeps her readers engaged.

The Book of Speculation

Title:  The Book of Speculation
Author: Erika Swyler
Genre: Mystery, Family History
Source: Library Ebook
Rating: 4 out of 5 paws

Simon is a library with a love and appreciation for books. His parents have both passed on, his sister is off traveling the land in a circus, his home is slowly crumbling into the ocean, and he just lost his job due to budget cuts.  Out of nowhere Simon receives a book in the mail from a book seller.  The man who sent it to him, believed it would be of interest to his family history.  The book is a circus diary of sorts, a book written by the circus owner chronicling important events and dates.  Simon begins to notice a pattern.  On the same date, women who perform as mermaids or swimmers die, by drowning.  The same way his mother died, and all the women seem to be tied to his family.  He begins to worry about the safety of his sister as she comes to visit and the date slowly draws closer.  But the more Simon reads, the more he discovers about not only his family's past but also that of his neighbor.  Can Simon stop fate before it's too late?

I have sort of been drawn into circus books or books that relate to a circus, so when I saw this book at the library (or rather on the library list), I decided to give it a shot.  I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked it, but also a little disappointed that more was not done with a certain aspect of the book.  But don't let me get ahead of myself.  The book overall was an interesting one to read.  I liked all the characters.  They each had their own interesting quirk and element to add to the story.  They all helped drive the story forward even if it is in a small way such as that of the book seller.

Simon, I found Simon to be an interesting character in that he got so wrapped up in the family history he didn't see anything else around him.  He began to alienate and hurt the people around them despite him thinking he was helping or protecting them.  He was a warm, lovable character but had so many faults to him, but that is what made me love him even more.  I loved how protective he got when Enola comes with a boyfriend, one covered in tentacle tattoos and can apparently create electricity. Throughout the book, the readers see many different sides to Simon that makes him a well rounded likable character.  Honestly I wanted more of Enola and her boyfriend in the book (I forget his name right now).  They floated around in the background and every so often would pop back up almost like a "hey remember me" kind of thing.  I wanted more of Enola's tarot reading skills and them correlating with the book aside from her tearing some out or hiding them when Simon came into the room.  Maybe a scene without Simon, where Enola is reading the cards and mutters "it's happening again" or something like that.  Something to tie her into the story a little more.

 enjoyed how the book went between the two story-lines but did it in a way that it was easy to follow.  The reader found out more information as Simon found it out, so it was exciting to read.  It left me excited to find out what would happen next and what happened to the circus characters as well as how they all related to Simon. I loved the incorporation of people drawn to water and knowing various techniques to holding their breath underwater for long periods of time.  As a kid I remember trying to see how long I could do that, and had contests with my brother.  How I longed to be a mermaid or Skelkie.  I got really excited when the legend of skelkies were alluded to, I was hoping this would be played up more, but it wasn't.  They are one of my favorite creatures of lore.

There is a lot of descriptions in this book that some may feel takes away from the story, but at times it adds to the story.  I say this because it helps build the picture.  It helps create the world that the author intends the reader to see.  She wants us to see her vision and goes the extra mile to do so.  The pacing is a little slow in the beginning but it does pick up after a while.  There were some things that were never really explained such as how Amos was able to appear like he disappeared (made me think of that part in Avengers Infinity War when Drax thinks he's moving so slow he's invisible).  Or why the women of the family mysteriously drowned when they could hold their breaths or were strong swimmers.  While I did enjoy reading the book and was surprised at how much I enjoyed it, being left with a lot of unanswered questions left me feeling unsatisfied.

Traitor's Game

Title: Traitor's Game
Author: Jennifer Nielsen
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Source: Hardback: Library
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 paws


For three years Kestra Dallisor was in exile, when she is called to return home, she is pulled right back to her fathers politics and hatred.  The role Kestra plays is not one of her choosing, she is just a pawn.  A group of rebels know how valuable Kestra is to the empire and kidnap her from her carriage.  They strike a deal with her, she find a mystical blade for them, and they will spare the lives of her protector and handmaiden.  While she agrees, Kestra is determined to not make it easy.  Soon secrets creep out of the darkness and alliances are born.  Kestra needs to decide whom she can put her trust in and whom she should fear.

I was excited about this book when I read about it last year.  It seemed to have everything I look for in a book, and the cover is very interesting and alluring.  It seemed to have a powerful female lead and strong supporting characters.  I am pleased to say the book delivered everything I could imagine it would and left me wanting more from the story.  I do look forward to reading the next book when it comes out next year.


Kestra is probably one of the strongest female leads I have read in YA this year.  She is not willing to go down easy and comes out fighting. She doesn't whimper or whine about her situation, but instead does what she can to come out on top even if it means lying to those she trusts the most.  We know she has strong fighting skills taught to her from Darrow, but we really don't get to see it...yet.  I hope there will be more action in the next book as it progresses to the next stage of the story.  Kestra has more depth to her than I have seen in a while and I am proud that Nielsen took the time to create a bold feisty, alluring heroine rather than a princess whose only concern are her dresses and status.


The Traitor's Game is a story packed full of battle scenes, murder, secrets, romance, and strength all rolled into a tale the takes readers on a roller coaster ride.  Some things I was able to predict and figure out, but other things were not what I was expecting.  While the book was fast paced and kept the reader wanting more, there were a few slower points that made me want to skip over them and read the next chapter.  I did find myself saying "one more chapter" until I looked at the clock and seen it was 2 am.


One of the most anticipated novels of 2018 and it does not disappoint.  I look forward to seeing what Nielsen has in store for readers in the next book of the series.  I would recommend it if you enjoy fantasy.  If you enjoy novels like the Throne of Glass series, then you will most likely enjoy this novel.


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Caraval by Stephanie Garber Book Review

Title: Caraval
Author: Stephanie Garber
Genre:Fantasy
Source: Hardback - library
Rating: 4 out of 5 paws


Scarlet and her sister have never seen the world beyond their island.  Their father comes up with cruel punishments for their misdoings.  When her father arranges for Scarlet to marry a count, she believes she will be free from his tyranny, but also that her dreams of seeing the magical performers of the famed Caraval is over.  But her hopes arise when she receives 3 tickets to this year's performance, but her plans are challenged when Scarlet and her sister are whisked away to the Caraval's island by an unknown sailor.  Once they arrive Tella is kidnapped and made a part of the game.  The players must find here before the end of the week if someone wins, they win a wish.  Scarlet becomes engrossed in not only the game of magic, but one of love, and heartbreak.  She must decide who to trust and who to keep at arms lengths.  Sometimes getting swept up in the magic can have a dangerous result.  What will Scarlet find at the end of the game?

I decided to pick up this book because it came recommended through book clubs, goodreads, the book stores I went to.  Everywhere I went, the book was in my face, well not literally, but enough that I picked it up.  I have seen it compared to Erin Morgenstern's Night Circus, which has been one of the best books I have read in a while.  I can say I was happy I read the book and that there were some magic elements that I haven't seen in other books, but it didn't seem to mystify me as I had hoped it would and I would NOT compare it to Night Circus in any way..  Granted, I will be reading the next book in the series because it is an interesting story.


Garber gives readers a story that is both suspenseful and magical.  I found myself anxious to find out what will happen next and if Scarlet will be able to figure out the clues, although, I don't think there was specifically a right or wrong answer to the clues, but rather the questions the performers asked such as what is your greatest desire or who do you fear the most.  It was a story that asked the main character to look deep into herself to find her true self, not the self she believes she is.  I found that to be rather engrossing and interesting thought that we may not be who think of ourselves.  But I kept waiting for the magic to happen and it didn't seem to really happen aside for a few spells or potions here and there, but nothing that really blew me away the way Night Circus did.


I liked Scarlet to a point, I think she could have been smarter, more resourceful, but she gets this way by the end of the book.  She whined alot, was too concerned with her reputation rather than saving her sister, lies but then gets offended when she's lied too and more. I found her to be afraid too often in the book, which I guess was the point.  She was afraid to take the leap of faith so to speak not to find her sister, but to find herself.  I wanted so much more from Scarlet that we don't really get to see yet, and I hope we see her evolve into a stronger female, more independent if she appears in the next novel.  We get a lot of information about Legend, but we are never actually introduced to him which felt like a let down.  I almost pictured his watching from the balconies or somewhere in a Jareth in Laberynth kinda of way and him throwing obstacles in her way but nope.  Not once do we see Legend.


There were something that got mentioned but never explained such as what happened to Dante's sister, we know she went missing but never find out what happened to her.  Small things like that are what kept this novel from getting a higher rating from me.  I love how each section was broken into nights, so readers knew that everything that happened in one section is what happened in that particular night, it helped with keeping a time line straight. Although in that same respect, it seemed like no one actually slept at Caraval.  There is a lot that happens in Caraval, but at the same it almost feels like nothing happens other than a few lucky breaks.  I hope to see more in Legendary and hope we actually meet Legend and see what kind of person he is.


If you like YA and fantasy novels check it out.


Get it now by clicking the link


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The Girl In Between by Laekan Zea Kemp Book Review

Title: The Girl In Between
Author: Laekan Zea Kemp
Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
Source: Ebook
Rating: 2 out of 5 paws


All Bryn wants is a normal life, a life where she doesn't fall asleep for weeks on end.  It seems her Klein-Levin Syndrome is getting worse as her episodes are happening more frequently.  But that isn't what scares Bryn the most.  WHile she sleeps she spends her time on a beach reliving her memories, alone, that is until a boy washes up on the shore.  Even while awake she is plagued with hallucinations of shadows creeping around her, shadows that feel like they are watching, waiting to hurt her.  It seems like her only hope is Dr. Banz who has created an experimental trial, but he knows more about her situation than he lets on.  Bryn must figure out what the boy in her dreams mean, could he be real?  What are the shadows and what do they want?  Bryn must find out who the boy is before it is too late.  For both of them.

I had this book on my kindle to read list for a while now and never got around to reading it.  I fell in love with the cover and the concept of the book.  Only, I didn't fall in love with the book.  It was a struggle to even finish the book.  First of all there is a lot of fluff in the story, fluff that doesn't help push the story along and felt more life slice of life things rather than something important to the story.  I get she wanted a normal life with her friends and to go to school, but there was so much in it that didn't make me want to continue with the story, and actually bored me.  The premise has a lot of potential.  A lot that could have been done with it, but for some reason...wasn't.


The ending, was just....unsatisfying.  It just stopped as if the story was unfinished and the author decided to publish it anyway.  I  understand the novel is a part of a series, but it just leaves the reader wondering, what the heck.  We barely learn anything about Bryn other than she has KLS and has 2 friends and a boyfriend who from I gathered is borderline abusive, but she keeps going back to him.  There wasn't any depth to Bryn, we don't get her inner turmoil, her fears, worries etc aside from the general things of being a teenage girl.  The book is told from two viewpoints, Bryn and Roman, but the voices are the same.  There is nothing to indicate which one is speaking other than their names at the beginning of the chapters.  She consistently judged her cousin for her choices which made me not like her at all.  There were times when Dani needed her and she just "wasn't in the mood of Dani's drama."  How is that supposed to make me like her when Dani stood by her all the years with this disorder?  That's not how you treat friends.


The paced of the story was just dragging, but then again when you have a story revolving around teen angst, drinking, sex rather than the actual story, it will drag on.  It doesn't really get into the plot of the story until almost the end, about the last 30% of the novel.  I don't want to spend 70% of a novel with slow build up.  I want to be excited to see what happens, suspicious of Dr. Banz early on not towards the end.  There were numerous sentence fragments, run on sentences, almost like an editor didn't read through it.


I haven't decided if I will attempt the next book in the series, but I do not think I would recommend The Girl In Between.

Eversong

Title: Eversong

Author: A.C. Salter

Genre: Fantasy

Source: Kindle Ebook

Rating: 2 out of 5 paws

Elora's past is filled with half-truths and mysteries.  SHe's been an  orphan her whole life, raised by her uncle.  Then one day she finds out she isn't even from Earth, but another realm called Thea.  Her lineage is a mystery but the general consensus is that if her existence was discovered many people would be out to kill her.  As she begins to spiral into a world of chaos and monsters, she begins a journey of self discovery and is determined to prove herself worthy of life rather than being judged to die.  Will she be able to convince those around her of her worth and ability to help bring down the greatest evil to threaten humanity?

I started out really enjoying the story, it was moving fast and was very interesting idea, but then it hit a brick wall and started to get, meh.  At about the half way point I started to get a little bored with the story, I feel as though the revelation of Elora's paternity happened too early and there wasn't any other, suspenseful event to look forward to other than the big battle.  The mythos created in the story happened slow, and felt like it was being borrowed from other stories rather than being uniquely created.  There were a few things that I had a hard time accepting such as a leviathan having the ability to disrupt electricity and electronics including a pace-maker.  I feel like there could have been a different creature to do this.

The romance between Bray and Elora felt like it was thrown into the story to add a little bit of "difficulty".  They just meet and instantly it is love and Bray risks losing all the training he has done thus far to become the Shodjak.  When Elora's paternity is revealed I expected  more of a reaction, more emotion to be displayed aside from her convincing Diagus to keep her alive.  There was just too much in the novel that felt wrong or out of place for this reader to be able to really enjoy it.  While the premise of the story itself is rather interesting, I found it to be anti-climatic especially the ending.

There were so many different grammar and spelling errors that also took away from the enjoyment of this book.  There were many times when one sentence would be a paragraph long with no commas or other punctuation to break it up.  The writing other was fine enough, but just struggled to hold my attention or make me feel connected or empathize with any of the characters.  I would not recommend this book.

The Girl In The Tower

Title: The Girl In The Tower
Author: Katherine Arden
Genre: Fantasy, Folklore
Source: Library hardback
Rating: 4 out of 5 paws


The Bear has been defeated, but because of it Vasya has been cast out of her village labeled a witch.  Instead of living life in a convent or allowing herself to be married to some man, Vasya decides to travel the world, see all that she can see.  She disguises herself as a boy and ventures out into the woods atop her grand horse. She encounters some bandits and after a narrow escape she stumbles upon a monastery which happens to be Sasha's monastery.  She earns the admiration of the Grand Prince, but must keep up the pretenses of being a boy.  She begins to notice things in Moscow that don't seem to add up and begins to realize the Grand Prince's kingdom is under threat, a threat that feasts and drinks wine with him.  But is it too late for her to stop things that are already in motion?

The Girl In The Tower is the sequel to The Bear and The Nightengale which may just be one of my favorite fantasy/folklore books so far this year. Just like The Bear and The Nightengale, this book revolves around the Russian folk lore of the frost-demon.  It is filled with elements of folk-lore, religion, politics, culture and fantastical elements. 


Vasya wants nothing more than to be her own person and not be confined to what society says she needs to be and how to act.  While she may feel like she is still wild young girl she once was, she grow immensely in this novel and forms ideal beyond that of simply not wanting to marry or go to a convent.  Readers see her enjoy being an advisor to the Grand Prince and finally being able to stand up for herself and be taken seriously.  Her voice is finally heard even if it is as a boy.  To her, that is a freeing experience.  Her shift into maturity happens so naturally that by the end of the novel you think to yourself, wow she grew tremendously in this novel, and you can't wait to see her in the next one.


Kathrine Arden's writing is beautifully lyrical and poetic.  It was easy to get lost in her world and forget everything in the real world, I almost forgot to go back to work after lunch.  Every character introduced plays an important part, there are no "small roles" in this novel and I love that.  I love that readers can feel connected to every character even Katya in the beginning.  While Vasya isn't out right romantically involved with anyone she feels a love towards Morozko.  I think he can win everyone's heart, he won mine!  I almost want a story focused on him.

Every time you take one path, you must live with the memory of the other: of a life left unchosen. Decide as seems best, one course or the other; each way will have its bitter with its sweet.

This is probably my favorite quote from the book.  It says so much within these two sentences that define the series and life in general.  After reading it I paused and thought about what those words meant for me, for my life and the path I have chosen.  From start to finish you find yourself melting into the words of Katherine Arden.  There is no better way to describe it.


I highly recommend this novel, and will keep my eye out for the third book and feel like I need to buy all versions of this book.  Check it out.

Ready Player One

Title: Ready Player One
Author: Ernest Cline
Genre: Fantasy/Sci Fi
Source: Paperback
Rating: 4 out of 5


The OASIS is a virtual reality world, where you can do basically anything your heart desires.  One of the world's creators placed an Easter Egg within the realm and has clues leading players to the egg.  It has been 5 years since the first clue had been release and no one has found it yet.  Until Wade (user name being Parzival) figures out the first clue relates to a Dungeons and Dragons dungeon.  Once he figures it out and competes for the first key, he discovers he is not the first person to figure out the clue, but the first person to defeat the first boss.  From here it is race with other "gunters" and an organization named IOI, who want control of OASIS, to find the remaining keys and enter the gates to find the Easter Egg.  Along the way Wade makes some friends, as well as some enemies.  He finds the game not only challenges his nerd knowledge, but also challenges his strengths and weaknesses.

I was already interested in this novel, but was encouraged to read it quickly to see the  movie, I am glad I did.  While it was slow to start and seemed a little slow moving throughout different parts of the book, it was well written and interesting to read.  Being an 80's nerd, I loved all the references and understood every one of them.  He does describe some things a lot, but then some things he doesn't as they are typically things the general public would understand such as movie or television show references.

I have always enjoyed the idea of virtual reality (VR), and enjoy seeing how other people interpret the idea such as this novel or shows like Sword Art Online.  The idea of this book is that people basically live their lives in the alternate universe, almost like people who get pulled into the world of MMOs like Everquest and World of Warcraft, but Ready Player One takes it farther with working, shopping and going to school through this VR world.  Cline does a great job at describing the world, how it works, how people interact, as well as continues to show a class difference even inside the OASIS.  The way he presents the game, challenge, quest whatever you want to call it is rather interesting, and I almost expected it to get harder as it went on, but it didn't seem as that was the case, the clues were harder to decipher, but the gates themselves seemed rather easy.

Wade was an interesting enough character of a typically nerdy fellow down on his luck.  He does grow into himself and learns about his strengths and weaknesses as well as the importance of being able to rely on those around him.  I liked how Cline incorporated that idea into the story as well, the importance of teamwork as well as healthy competition between friends.  Art3mis was interesting as well, I kind of wanted a little more from her perspective and the competition between them and Aech rather than the romantic aspect of her and Wade.

Overall it was a good perfect for those of us who love the 80's and all things considered nerdy.  I am excited to see what the movie will be like, hopefully I can catch it in theaters.  If you are a fan of sci-fi, virtual reality, and 80's nostalgia pick up this book and dive into the OASIS.



Shadow Weaver

Title: Shadow Weave
Author: MarcyKate Connolly
Genre: Fantasy, YA
Source: Hardback:  Goodreads First Read
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 paws


Emmeline is a lonely girl, she feels isolated from the world because of her gift, one that causes those around her to fear her.  She has grown content with being hidden away in the castle with only the shadows to keep her company. One day a nobleman arrives at the estate offering a cure for her talent meaning she will lose her gift. When this noble visiting her family estate mysteriously falls into a coma, Emmeline is blamed, and she runs away.  Her shadow Dar proposes a deal to protect Emmeline as long as she helps make Dar a human girl again.  Emmeline agrees and together they dash into the nearby woods where she hides within the shadows and stumbles upon a boy with light magic.  She begins her life living with them trying to figure out how to clear her name, help Dar and hope her new friends will not discover her secrets.

I was really excited when I won this novel from the Goodreads giveaways, and I admit it took me a little while before I was able to really sit down and read it.  It starts out a little slow, but then begins to pick up the pace as Emmeline runs away.  The idea is interesting with every 25 years a comet passes over and blessed a certain number of children with various gifts.  It was also interesting that Emmeline manipulates shadows as opposed to a gift we generally see in fantasy novels like earth magic or fire.  Shadow magic is something unique and adds an interesting spin on the story.


I enjoyed how Emmeline and Lucas' bond begins to grow that they practice their magic together and discover they are more powerful when they work together.  It is an interesting take on relationship between light and dark.  She doesn't know who to trust or how to really let her guard down after spending most of her life isolated from people. I think this is something young readers can related to, feeling isolated as if they don't belong, nothing in common with others around them etc.  The story does develop somewhat slow but I believe it is leading up to something more in a later novel.  It sets a good background for any additional novels.


The story is geared towards middle school aged children, so the writing is somewhat simplistic, but it makes for an exciting and easy read.  Children of this age would enjoy reading those book and I could see them devouring it.  I personally was able to read it within the day and found myself, as a 30 year old woman, engrossed in these characters.  I wanted more, I wanted to see more magic and hoped to see Doyle's wind magic playing with the light and shadows of Lucas and Emmeline, maybe we will see this later in another book. 


The enchanting tale of Shadow Weaver is story that begs for readership regardless of age.  It is a cute book that has friendship, betrayal, excitement, magic and so much more.  I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good fantasy novel.

The Magicians Land

Title: The Magician's Land
Author: Lev Grossman
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Ebook
Rating: 3 out of 5 paws


This is the third book in the Magician's trilogy.  Quentin is cast out of Fillory and working as a teacher at Brakebills, until he gets cast out of there as well.  After being cast out of Brakebills he joins a quest to steal back a chest with some things in it, what the things are he doesn't know.  While on the quest he meets Plum who was a wonderful student at Brakebills but was also cast out.  Their quest takes them back to Brakebills South, but what they discover about the box changes things.  Quentin tries even more to bring Alice back from being a niffin, but in the process he discovers how to create a magical utopia.  Meanwhile, Fillory is dying.  Eliot and Janet are trying to find a way to save Fillory from dying and Quentin just might be their answer.

I must preface this by saying I accidently borrowed the wrong book.  I meant to borrow book 2 "The Magician's King" but the library system had the book labeled wrong and I read out of order so for a while I was VERY lost in what was happening or what had happened.  Despite not reading the second book, this one felt....bland and unpleasant.  I kept saying I wanted to quit reading but my friend insisted that I finish reading it.  There were parts of the story that felt like it could have been way more exciting than it was such as the suitcase quest, it could have been way better, but it fell short of expectations. 


The only parts I did enjoy involved Fillory, Eliot and Janet, granted they are my favorite things about the series as a whole (including the television show).  Janet really stepped up in her bad-assness with her kick ass weapons and really taking on the role of High Queen of Fillory.  Eliot I felt fell a little flat In his awesomeness, maybe I am too used to the actor who plays him.  That is part of the downfall of reading a series after beginning to watch a movie or tv show based on the series.  You already gain an image in your head of that character and for this series they don't add up.  I prefer the TV show actors to the characters described in the book.   


The ending is almost predictable in what would happen.  While the story itself built up to the end, it was predictable from the beginning and left me feeling unsatisfied.  I wanted something more from the end, something grander.  What I think I should do is read the series when I am NOT watching the tv show so I am not as bias.   Overall I would recommend it.  Grossman is a great storyteller and has created an interesting world that I wish I could escape to sometimes.  If you enjoy fantasy definitely pick this series up but if you enjoy the show, maybe wait til later to read it.

The Children's Home

Title: The Children's Home
Author: Charles Lambert
Genre: Fantasy
Source Hardback
Rating: 1 out of 5 paws


Morgan lives in his estate home with only a care taker.  When children start to mysteriously appear on his doorstep, Morgan begins to wonder not only where they come from, but what purpose do they serve.  Every child that arrives, he takes in and slowly some strange things begin to happen and it seems as though the children randomly disappear and appear in thin air.  These children, the oldest David mainly, have an odd understanding of Morgan's past.  Together with a live in doctor, Dr. Crane.  The children begin to discover oddities within the attic and other rooms of the house.  Dr. Crane and Morgan begin to wonder what is really behind the motives of these children, and what is hidden within this estate.

I found this book on the shelf at my local library and decided to give it a try.  It sound interesting and being compared to Narnia and Golden Compass, I was more than intrigued.  But then I started reading the book and became more and more disappointed.  The more I tried to read it the more disappointed I got as it got harder to understand what exactly was going on in the book.  After finishing it, I still cannot tell you what happened or why something happened.  It was beyond confusing.  I tried to explain this book to my friend and was unable to even give him an idea of what the book was about.


The chapters had subtitles which told you what was going to happen in that chapter.  While I know other novels that have done this and it worked well, it did not work with this novel.  The chapters were rather short so a brief one line summary told you basically everything you needed to know about the chapter.  This also made me want to skip a chapter or two because it didn't seem like it would fit in with what the story was about or that it would add any depth to the story or even answer of the questions I had lingering.  I still have questions lingering.


I kept asking myself "wait, what?"  I was hoping for a dark fairy tale that was a cross between Narnia and Golden Compass as it was marketed on the book jacket but it had elements from neither story, nor would I even consider this a fairy-tale.  I would not recommend this book at all.  It felt like a wasted day.

The Misanthrope

Title: The Misanthrope
Author: S.M Boyce
Genre: Fantasy
Source: Kindle Ebook
Rating: 4 out of 5


This is the story of how Stone became, well...Stone.  Prior to being the first vagabond, prior to training Kara he was a servant boy named Terric.  As a young boy he was intent on learning more and reading as many books as he could steal from his master, but when he is caught and tries to run away he is captured by someone else who stabs him with something and then drowns him.  Upon his death Terric meets, Death himself who gives him a option to return to life but as a being known as an Isen.  But with the catch that he is under the control of Niccoli his new master.  Terric gains the name Stone and spends his lifetime trying to figure out how to survive without making new Isens or how to make them without painfully killing them, and how he can escape Niccoli.  Will Stone be able to learn how to defy Niccoli and finally be free from a life of servitude?

I have been waiting for a story about Stone.  I love his character, I craved more of his backstory, while this one was interesting to read, it didn't capture me as much as S.M. Boyce's other novels.  It was a lot of backstory and I understand we may have more from Stone's story and I am eagerly waiting to see what else is in store him and how he figures out how to escape Niccoli's commands.  He is a character that doesn't just blindly follow his master, he questions things and tries to do things differently than his master.  I like the character of Stone because of that, because he doesn't blindly follow Niccoli and does whatever he says for the sake of obedience.  While he is still a slave of sorts he is still his own man with his own mind and desires.


S.M Boyce has created this world of Ourea filled with unknown magic and creatures that completely unique to her vision.  She creates empathy for her characters in a way that remains with the readers throughout the story.  I love that all her characters remain true to themselves even some of the minor characters remain who they are and you have a slight insight to who they were prior to becoming Isen.  This book shows readers the importance of these characters while in Grimoire Saga we see them as "evil", Boyce shows that not all of them are, and readers gain a sense of sympathy for them through this story.  I am eager to read what is next in this series and can't wait to begin Deidra's story!


So far I have read I think 4 of Boyce's novels and she has  yet to disappoint.  Each novel seems to surpass the last, and I expect that to continue with this series.  I  highly recommend anything by SM Boyce and look forward to seeing more of her amazing writing in the future.  Pick yourself up a copy and see her magical writing for yourself.  You won't be able to stop from getting another one.

The Last Necromancer

Title: The Last Necromance
Author: CJ Archer
Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal
Source Kindle Ebook
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 paws.


Charlie is your average 13 year old boy living on the streets.  He steals to survive until he gets caught and arrested.  Only..Charlie has some secrets, one he is actually an 18 year old girl.  Two...she can speak to and control the dead: she is a necromancer.  Her father banished her from his home when she first commanded her mother's spirit five years ago, she lived on the streets in disguise since.  When she is arrested she stirs the pot when she begs a spirit to help her escape the clutches of the other prisoners allowing her to escape jail altogether. Now There are people looking for her a mysterious doctor and Lincoln Fitzroy the head of a secret organization.  But why do these people want her and what will they do with her once they find out she is a girl and in deed the last necromancer?

I have read other books by C.J Archer, and loved the writing style enough to need to check out this novel as well.  This is the first book in a series and yes, I already bought the second book in the series.  I liked that Charlie was a little flawed in that she didn't trust anyone, was constantly denying who she was and even falling for someone older than her.  Having flawed characters make them easier to relate to, making the book more enjoyable to read.  I have read a lot of other books with the main characters having a variety of powers, but this is the first that I have read about a necromancer, and I like what Archer did with it.  Granted there was literary artistic creativity with the doctor character (I don't want to give it away).  I know some people didn't like how it was done, but I was excited once I figured out who this mysterious person was and what he wanted her for.  It is set in Victorian London and makes references to some events that have happened around the time such as the Ripper murders, which I thought was a nice touch bringing the real into the fantasy.


The story does take a while to develop to the climatic point of who the person is and finding him.  Most of the time Charlie is trapped in a manor with not much to do other than read and play cards with two other characters.  I wanted a little more from Gus and Seth, I think I liked their characters more than I like Lincoln.  There is too much we still don't know about him/felt too mysterious.  I also wasn't sure about the potential love interest between Charlie and Lincoln because of the age.  Now I know age makes no different, but it's hard to read a book of an 18 year old girl falling in love with her 30 year old kidnapper.  I actually shipped her with Seth, and would love to see that happen, something different from the normal go to of lead female falls for lead male.  Or better yet, have her not want to get mixed up with a man until she learns about her powers and how to defend herself against people out to find her.  Shake things up a bit, sure it's YA but does every girl in a YA novel need to be rescued by a man?!


There were a few things about Lincoln I was not okay with such as him "teaching" her a lesson by dropping her off in the middle of Whitechapel to fend for herself.  While she was used to being on the streets she did so under the guise of a boy, now she was all gussied up like a respectable lady and almost gets raped.  I admit I almost stopped reading right there, but low and behold Lincoln comes to her rescue and kills them man.  I find it hard to believe that is a good way to prove to someone that you would not harm them or to encourage them to help you.  And of course Charlie goes with it because she's so frazzled and see him as her knight in shining armor.


I liked the thrill of finding the doctor, but I would have liked Charlie to have been in on it a little more, or the use of her necromancy powers to be more in the story other than in the beginning and towards the end.  I wanted more from that which is why this book got the 3.5 paw rating.  There was a lot of waiting around for something to happen, but I understand the need to build a little bit of a backstory within the first book of a series. I wanted Charlie to be a stronger character, but she does come off as being weak and unable to defend herself (but then how did she survive on the streets for so long?)


It was a good enough story, kept me wanting more up til then end and made me want to buy the next book in the series, even if there are a few loop holes in the story itself.  I tried not to overthink those holes.  I am interested to see where the story takes us and what is in store for Charlie, Seth, Gus and Lincoln.  I recommend it for those who enjoy fantasy, paranormal, supernatural kind of stories.