The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. Imagine an undetermined time in the future where North America has been completely ravaged by war, nature, and man's greed and you have the setting of this exciting YA dystopia. From what used to be the ashes of North America emerges the country of Panem - a country run by a totalitarian government, consisting of twelve, mostly poor outlying districts that provide goods and services to the decadent indulgences of the Capitol City (a future Rome if you will).
Every year, in order to reinforce its dominance over the inhabitants of the Districts, the Capitol hosts The Hunger Games, and each district is forced to supply one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 to compete in these ostentatious, scientist controlled gladitorial fights to death. When Katniss Everdeen, a poor 16-year old girl from District 12 (the poorest/weakest of districts) takes the place of her 12-year old sister in the games, she has little hope of survival. Surprisingly, she finds herself a serious contender in the games and as the story progresses she unwittingly becomes embroiled in political schemes, a love triangle between her childhood friend and a fellow contestant, and comes to symbolize a rebellion against Panem's dictatorial regime. What does fate have in store for Katniss as she's forced to compete and come to terms with her inner feelings?
The only thing I have to say is WOOOOOOWWWW - truly one of the best trilogies I have read in a while and although I do enjoy a fair share of books, those rare favorites are rare indeed. I believe Collins has written a winner. The story is fresh and original (or as original as YA fiction these days can be), Katniss is an incredibly compelling character and it's easy to empathize with her struggles. The writing is crisp, the plot well-paced, and the setting of the hunger games brutal but captivating. I loved loved loved it!
HOWEVER be warned! Those three "loveds" apply mostly to books one and two. I have expressed my opinion in other places on book three, and how I felt totally cheated by Collins. She didn't make the best use of the last book, and I felt she hand't maximized the impact the story could have had. As the final book it should have been climactic, and needless to say it was less than so, and Katniss did disappoint - her verve, those qualities that made me absolutely adore her in the first two books were absent in the last, and I also felt cheated because, in my opinion, Collins didn't settle the love triangle in a satisfactory way. I can't really critique much more without giving away what happens in the novel. My final word: just read it! You won't regret it, but you may not find the last book lives up to the first two.
*****5 Stars (only for books one and two)
***3 (book three)
The Hunger Games Trilogy Includes:
1. The Hunger Games
2. Catching Fire
3. Mockingjay
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Sunday, March 28, 2010
The Tamir Triad by Lynn Flewelling - These three books follow the story of a girl who has been hidden in the body of a boy. Let me start from the beginning. In this high fantasy, it has been prophesied by the Oracle of Afra that as long as a daughter of Thelatimos' line rules, Skala shall never be subjugated. Fast-forward a few centuries and male has usurped the throne and named himself the king of Skala. After the reign of a treacharous mad queen, the people of Skala see no harm in the recent turn of events, ignoring the words of the Oracle. But Illior Lightbearer, one of the four main deities of Skala, will not have it, and as plague, famine, and war threaten Skala, the Oracle forsees the one who will come to reclaim her rightful place on the throne. Erius, the Usurper King, has been killing off all his female relatives to ensure the succession of his line, but little does he know that with the help of a couple of wizards and an outlawed hill witch, his youngest sister's daughter has magically been given the form of a boy, to spare her the same fate as the rest of her family. Growing up a boy, Tobin has no idea who he really is and his fated destiny, but after a series of disastrous events and leading a sheltered upbringing in the country side, Tobin is forced to go live in the capital city Ero with his trusted squire and companion, Ki. Can Tobin stand to learn the truth about his real identity, and will he be able to wrest the crown from the only family he has left? Will Skala accept the rule of a hidden queen, or will she been seen as a creation of necromancy rather than the chosen of Illior? Stay tuned!
I was a little apprehensive picking up the first book in this trilogy - I had randomly stumbled accross this book on listmania on Amazon.com, and was, at the time, trying to expand my horizons, so I've had this book for a while and just picked it up to read recently. After reading the first book, I was left feeling a little ambivalent about the whole thing. The author spends a long time setting the scene and developing the characters, so there's very little in terms of plot sequence in the first book, but by the end I was definitely intrigued, since the story picks up pace in the last couple chapters. I wanted to know what happens to Tobin next, and let me say I'm glad I picked up book two. Book two is much more exciting and the speed of the plot is more what I'm inclined to like, but looking back I think I can appreciate how much slower book one is. Flewelling takes the time to carefully craft characters and places to ensure that the readers feel a connection, so that later in books two and three the story has more emotional impact. I can't really say much more about the pacing of the plot without really revealing why book one is slow and why the subsequent novels immediately pick up speed. One other comment I'd like to add is in reference to Flewelling's writing style. It's sufficiently dated to give the impression of a medieval fantasy realm, but it's fluid and beautiful, without being dense, and makes reading her books a real treat.
I'd say this is a definite must-read for those really into a good fantasy that's not too hoaky. There is some romance, which is obvious since I rarely read things without even a hint of it, but it's very appropros to the story, and mostly plays in the last book, so don't be turned off by that. It's a well-done coming of age story about trying to fit into your skin, when, surprise surprise, your skin isn't really yours.
****4 stars
Triad Includes:
1. The Bone Doll's Twin
2. Hidden Warrior
3. The Oracle's Queen
I was a little apprehensive picking up the first book in this trilogy - I had randomly stumbled accross this book on listmania on Amazon.com, and was, at the time, trying to expand my horizons, so I've had this book for a while and just picked it up to read recently. After reading the first book, I was left feeling a little ambivalent about the whole thing. The author spends a long time setting the scene and developing the characters, so there's very little in terms of plot sequence in the first book, but by the end I was definitely intrigued, since the story picks up pace in the last couple chapters. I wanted to know what happens to Tobin next, and let me say I'm glad I picked up book two. Book two is much more exciting and the speed of the plot is more what I'm inclined to like, but looking back I think I can appreciate how much slower book one is. Flewelling takes the time to carefully craft characters and places to ensure that the readers feel a connection, so that later in books two and three the story has more emotional impact. I can't really say much more about the pacing of the plot without really revealing why book one is slow and why the subsequent novels immediately pick up speed. One other comment I'd like to add is in reference to Flewelling's writing style. It's sufficiently dated to give the impression of a medieval fantasy realm, but it's fluid and beautiful, without being dense, and makes reading her books a real treat.
I'd say this is a definite must-read for those really into a good fantasy that's not too hoaky. There is some romance, which is obvious since I rarely read things without even a hint of it, but it's very appropros to the story, and mostly plays in the last book, so don't be turned off by that. It's a well-done coming of age story about trying to fit into your skin, when, surprise surprise, your skin isn't really yours.
****4 stars
Triad Includes:
1. The Bone Doll's Twin
2. Hidden Warrior
3. The Oracle's Queen
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Ok, I'm back! I haven't had as much time to read as I'd like, but I'm going to make a renewed effort of reviewing everything that I do get a chance to read.
The Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning - this five book series follows the story of Mackayla Lane, a somewhat ditzy/superficial 22-y/o Georgian native whose world is torn apart when she learns that her older sister, Alina, is brutally murdered when studying abroad in Dublin. After receiving a mysterious message from her sister hours before her murder, Mac heads off to Ireland to keep abreast of the investigation and find her sister's killer. What she least expects is to walk into a Dublin bar and see....a monster? Yes, Mac discovers that underneath the old world glamour of Ireland's capital city is dark underworld, and that the Fae, good and evil, do exist. Suddenly, Mac finds herself plunged into a world of danger and mysteries when it appears as though her sister's murder may somehow be linked. Predicatably, Mac also finds herself involved with Jericho Barrons, the dark and sexy proprietor of a luxurious bookstore, killer of Unseelie (evil Fae), and V'lane, a Seelie (kind-of-good Fae) Prince who uses his sexual aura to manipulate Mac. What do these two want from Mac, and who is good and who is evil? Mac will stop at nothing to make sure her sister's killer is found, and at the same time becomes involved in the search for Sinsar Dubh, a dark book of ancient orgins created by the mythical Unseelie King, to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands and wrecking havoc on Earth.
I have mixed feelings about this series, but not in a terribly bad fashion. I'm thoroughly enjoying reading the Fever series - what I think of a new interpretation of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but without the vampires. The writing, to say the least, is not very good - it's told from the first point perspective of Mac who, as the series progresses does mature and toughen up, but in the first couple books her inane mental repartee and inclination towards all things pink and cute and shiny can be incredible annoying. This is a purely plot driven story - if you can get past some really bad American cliches and descriptives, then hey, go for it. I obviously did! I will say that this is a series of books that get better as they progress - the first left me feeling pretty ambivalent. The following books get more invested, and by the end of the fourth I was dying to know what happens (the books end in really bad cliffhangers, and they get worse with each book so I hope you're patient readers). I had read Moning's previous Highlander books, which, while being nearly identitical in plot, we're pretty entertaining, so this was a pretty extreme turn for her. WARNING: This is dark and incredibly sexual, and in later books will deal with some serious issues that I know some other readers are uncomfortable with, but for the sake of the story and the development of character relations needed to happen.
Bottom line: the writing is sub-par, but the characters are pretty likable, and the story gets better with each successive book, so if you're looking for a trashy and mindless read that will keep you occupied this is a good choice.
***3 1/2 - 4 stars (depends on the book)
Series Includes:
1. DarkFever
2. BloodFever
3. FaeFever
4. DreamFever
5. ShadowFever (coming Winter 2010 - sorry!)
The Fever Series by Karen Marie Moning - this five book series follows the story of Mackayla Lane, a somewhat ditzy/superficial 22-y/o Georgian native whose world is torn apart when she learns that her older sister, Alina, is brutally murdered when studying abroad in Dublin. After receiving a mysterious message from her sister hours before her murder, Mac heads off to Ireland to keep abreast of the investigation and find her sister's killer. What she least expects is to walk into a Dublin bar and see....a monster? Yes, Mac discovers that underneath the old world glamour of Ireland's capital city is dark underworld, and that the Fae, good and evil, do exist. Suddenly, Mac finds herself plunged into a world of danger and mysteries when it appears as though her sister's murder may somehow be linked. Predicatably, Mac also finds herself involved with Jericho Barrons, the dark and sexy proprietor of a luxurious bookstore, killer of Unseelie (evil Fae), and V'lane, a Seelie (kind-of-good Fae) Prince who uses his sexual aura to manipulate Mac. What do these two want from Mac, and who is good and who is evil? Mac will stop at nothing to make sure her sister's killer is found, and at the same time becomes involved in the search for Sinsar Dubh, a dark book of ancient orgins created by the mythical Unseelie King, to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands and wrecking havoc on Earth.
I have mixed feelings about this series, but not in a terribly bad fashion. I'm thoroughly enjoying reading the Fever series - what I think of a new interpretation of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but without the vampires. The writing, to say the least, is not very good - it's told from the first point perspective of Mac who, as the series progresses does mature and toughen up, but in the first couple books her inane mental repartee and inclination towards all things pink and cute and shiny can be incredible annoying. This is a purely plot driven story - if you can get past some really bad American cliches and descriptives, then hey, go for it. I obviously did! I will say that this is a series of books that get better as they progress - the first left me feeling pretty ambivalent. The following books get more invested, and by the end of the fourth I was dying to know what happens (the books end in really bad cliffhangers, and they get worse with each book so I hope you're patient readers). I had read Moning's previous Highlander books, which, while being nearly identitical in plot, we're pretty entertaining, so this was a pretty extreme turn for her. WARNING: This is dark and incredibly sexual, and in later books will deal with some serious issues that I know some other readers are uncomfortable with, but for the sake of the story and the development of character relations needed to happen.
Bottom line: the writing is sub-par, but the characters are pretty likable, and the story gets better with each successive book, so if you're looking for a trashy and mindless read that will keep you occupied this is a good choice.
***3 1/2 - 4 stars (depends on the book)
Series Includes:
1. DarkFever
2. BloodFever
3. FaeFever
4. DreamFever
5. ShadowFever (coming Winter 2010 - sorry!)
Friday, January 29, 2010
Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
I must admit, when I initially came across this book quite some time ago I scoffed at the title and thought this was going to be just another horrible Twilight copy. However, I recently decided to take a chance and read it and was happily surprised. The story is about a American teenager, Jessica, who has lived her entire life in rural Pennsylvania when her life changes forever. Enter Lucius, a tall, dark, and handsome new transfer student from Romania who tells Jessica that she's a long lost vampire princess and that he is her intended fiance. Needless to say, Jessica is shocked and spends a good portion of the book in total disbelief of her heritage, but when push comes to shove can she save her intended from the clutches of an man-stealing cheerleader and other vampires who seek to punish and destroy Luscious Lucius? Sounds pretty fluffy, but I have to admit I found it pretty entertaining. What saves this book from being a total waste and helps it stand out a bit from the wave of other teen fantasies is the author's skills as a writer. Although the characters are stock, I found the witty repartee of the old-world Lucius very entertaining and refreshing. Only complaints I really have concern the ending (which I believe didn't do the rest of the story justice) and the developments in Lucius' personality that causes a break in his normal character - didn't seem quite convincing and at the end I was still scratching my head as to why he became the way he was....
I would say for anyone looking for a relaxing, use less than 5 brain cells kind of book this may be a winner! I got it from the library which was good, since I enjoyed it just enough to have picked it up but wasn't in love with it to the point where i could justify shelling out my precious $ for it
*** 3 1/2 stars
I must admit, when I initially came across this book quite some time ago I scoffed at the title and thought this was going to be just another horrible Twilight copy. However, I recently decided to take a chance and read it and was happily surprised. The story is about a American teenager, Jessica, who has lived her entire life in rural Pennsylvania when her life changes forever. Enter Lucius, a tall, dark, and handsome new transfer student from Romania who tells Jessica that she's a long lost vampire princess and that he is her intended fiance. Needless to say, Jessica is shocked and spends a good portion of the book in total disbelief of her heritage, but when push comes to shove can she save her intended from the clutches of an man-stealing cheerleader and other vampires who seek to punish and destroy Luscious Lucius? Sounds pretty fluffy, but I have to admit I found it pretty entertaining. What saves this book from being a total waste and helps it stand out a bit from the wave of other teen fantasies is the author's skills as a writer. Although the characters are stock, I found the witty repartee of the old-world Lucius very entertaining and refreshing. Only complaints I really have concern the ending (which I believe didn't do the rest of the story justice) and the developments in Lucius' personality that causes a break in his normal character - didn't seem quite convincing and at the end I was still scratching my head as to why he became the way he was....
I would say for anyone looking for a relaxing, use less than 5 brain cells kind of book this may be a winner! I got it from the library which was good, since I enjoyed it just enough to have picked it up but wasn't in love with it to the point where i could justify shelling out my precious $ for it
*** 3 1/2 stars
Friday, October 16, 2009
It's been quite some time since I last posted anything to this blog - I'm hoping to get back on track with the coming of the fall season!
Kushiel's Legacy by Jacqueline Carey. This is probably the first book series in quite some time that's thoroughly engrossed me, I'm pleased to report! Kushiel's Legacy - starting with Kushiel's Dart - is a reinterpretation of Renaissance Europe and Christianity. Terre d'Ange, this world's France, the D'Angelines are connoisseurs of all things beautiful and luxurious, and live by a single religious precept - Love as Thou wilt. So it was decreed by Blessed Elua, an Earthly angel born from the blood of Yeshua ben Yosef (aka Jesus Christ), the tears of the Magdalene, and the soil of the Earth. For years this Christ like figure wandered the earth, an outcast from the One God's heaven, spreading his doctrine of love until he gained seven companions, angels who turned their back on the One God in order to attend to Blessed Elua. Now fast forward a few thousand years and the story focuses in on Phedre, a girl who is sold by her parents into the indentured servitude of the Night Court, a place where girls and boys train themselves in the arts of Namaah, one of the Seven Companions who used her body and lay with strangers in order to make sure that Elua was always provided for. Now, the arts of love, sex, and essentially prostitution have become a sacred calling in Terre d'Ange. Always considered imperfect due to the brilliant scarlet mote in her left eye, Phedre is destined to live only as a servant, but is soon brought into the house of Anafiel Delaunay, who recognizes her as one pricked by Kushiel's Dart, destined to experience pain and pleasure as one. Anafiel ensures her tutoring in the arts of Namaah, but also covertcy. As Phedre grows and becomes more proficient as a courtesan, as well as a spy, she finds herself emrboiled in the middle of plots of political intrigue, power, sex and more and Phedre comes to know the special role she'll play in shaping the course of future events, for others as well as herself.
I have to say I've actually known about this book series for years now, but I was reluctant to pick it up because it sounded so..... extreme might be the word I'm looking for. I wasn't looking for some alternative reality laden with themes of S&M, but it was quite remarkably rich. Carey has a natural gift as a writer and an excellent mastery over the English language, so it was a particularly good treat because although it is a plot driven story it definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of the writing. The characters, though, are what make this series the absolute best! I LOVE Phedre, and the author does an excellent job of making sure she is not a one-dimensional character. Another thing I loved was that Carey was willing to take certain risks to ensure the integrity of her story (i.e. like killing off well loved characters...) and it works beautifully (although I am momentarily depressed). It's a hefty first book, some 900 pages, so you'll have your hands full with this one! My recommendation is DEFINTELY READ THIS SERIES! You won't regret it!
***** 5 Stars!
Series Includes:
1. Kushiel's Dart
2. Kushiel's Chosen
3. Kushiel's Avatar
and a second trilogy around another character is as follows
4. Kushiel's Scion
5. Kuhsiel's Justice
6. Kushiel's Mercy
I'm actually reading Kushiel's Scion right now, so if you liked the first three I imagine you'll be doing the same.
Kushiel's Legacy by Jacqueline Carey. This is probably the first book series in quite some time that's thoroughly engrossed me, I'm pleased to report! Kushiel's Legacy - starting with Kushiel's Dart - is a reinterpretation of Renaissance Europe and Christianity. Terre d'Ange, this world's France, the D'Angelines are connoisseurs of all things beautiful and luxurious, and live by a single religious precept - Love as Thou wilt. So it was decreed by Blessed Elua, an Earthly angel born from the blood of Yeshua ben Yosef (aka Jesus Christ), the tears of the Magdalene, and the soil of the Earth. For years this Christ like figure wandered the earth, an outcast from the One God's heaven, spreading his doctrine of love until he gained seven companions, angels who turned their back on the One God in order to attend to Blessed Elua. Now fast forward a few thousand years and the story focuses in on Phedre, a girl who is sold by her parents into the indentured servitude of the Night Court, a place where girls and boys train themselves in the arts of Namaah, one of the Seven Companions who used her body and lay with strangers in order to make sure that Elua was always provided for. Now, the arts of love, sex, and essentially prostitution have become a sacred calling in Terre d'Ange. Always considered imperfect due to the brilliant scarlet mote in her left eye, Phedre is destined to live only as a servant, but is soon brought into the house of Anafiel Delaunay, who recognizes her as one pricked by Kushiel's Dart, destined to experience pain and pleasure as one. Anafiel ensures her tutoring in the arts of Namaah, but also covertcy. As Phedre grows and becomes more proficient as a courtesan, as well as a spy, she finds herself emrboiled in the middle of plots of political intrigue, power, sex and more and Phedre comes to know the special role she'll play in shaping the course of future events, for others as well as herself.
I have to say I've actually known about this book series for years now, but I was reluctant to pick it up because it sounded so..... extreme might be the word I'm looking for. I wasn't looking for some alternative reality laden with themes of S&M, but it was quite remarkably rich. Carey has a natural gift as a writer and an excellent mastery over the English language, so it was a particularly good treat because although it is a plot driven story it definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of the writing. The characters, though, are what make this series the absolute best! I LOVE Phedre, and the author does an excellent job of making sure she is not a one-dimensional character. Another thing I loved was that Carey was willing to take certain risks to ensure the integrity of her story (i.e. like killing off well loved characters...) and it works beautifully (although I am momentarily depressed). It's a hefty first book, some 900 pages, so you'll have your hands full with this one! My recommendation is DEFINTELY READ THIS SERIES! You won't regret it!
***** 5 Stars!
Series Includes:
1. Kushiel's Dart
2. Kushiel's Chosen
3. Kushiel's Avatar
and a second trilogy around another character is as follows
4. Kushiel's Scion
5. Kuhsiel's Justice
6. Kushiel's Mercy
I'm actually reading Kushiel's Scion right now, so if you liked the first three I imagine you'll be doing the same.
Friday, August 21, 2009
it's been quite some time I must say, but now that I'm starting to adjust to the new pace of my new life I think it's time to update this blog...
The Ephermera Duology by Anne Bishop - another couple of books from this classic favorite of mine. These two books (wishing there were more...) recount the story of Sebastian and his uber-powerful cousin, Glorianna Belladonna. Like a breath of fresh air, Bishop returns to themes of extreme power, darkness, and the will and choices of the one woman who wields them (closer to The Black Jewels, rather than Tir Alainn). Ephemera, once a unified land, was broken into separated landscapes by warriors of the light in order to trap the Eater of the World, the darkest of evils, into an isolated landscape. Years later, to get from one landscape to another people have to cross stationary bridges, but there are also resonanting bridges - those that resonate with your deepest desires, taking you to the place you truly belong to. Sebastian is a half-inccubus living in the Den of Iniquity, a dark landscape full of vice and little virtue - but to Sebastian, the Den has been more a home to him than the 'light' landscape of Wizard City, where he was shunned and neglected as a child when not taken home by his kind, landscaper aunt. Now, dark forces are stirring and landscapers and bridges, those people who create parts of the world and keep them connected, are disappearing and someone, or something, is trying to free the Eater from it's dark prison. It's up to Sebastion to help save Ephemera from its untimely doom and those he loves while preparing for the ultimate battle which will come to his cousin, Glorianna. Probably the most powerful of landscapers, and outcasted by her own kind, Glorianna is the only one with power strong enough to face the Eater of the World, but at what cost to herself and those she cares about? Stay Tuned! I've got to say this was like a breath of fresh air for me - I had purchased Sebastian nearly 3 years before and had yet to pick it up because I was worried it was going to be a step down from the Tir Alainn trilogy. I love Bishop, but of everything I've read so far by her, Tir Alainn was my least favorite (although still entertaining!). But Ephemera was a return to some of the darker themes that were more characteristic of The Black Jewels. I will say that I wish Ephemera had been expanded into at least a trilogy, because some parts of the story could have used a little more development (for example the relationship between Glorianna and Michael...), but perhaps Bishop intended the story to have this sense of immediacy with all the focus being in the present, rather than the future. Either way, I enjoyed these two books, and recommend them - I'll probably be re-reading them during my annual re-read next year!
**** 4 stars
Duology Includes:
1. Sebastian
2. Belladonna
The Ephermera Duology by Anne Bishop - another couple of books from this classic favorite of mine. These two books (wishing there were more...) recount the story of Sebastian and his uber-powerful cousin, Glorianna Belladonna. Like a breath of fresh air, Bishop returns to themes of extreme power, darkness, and the will and choices of the one woman who wields them (closer to The Black Jewels, rather than Tir Alainn). Ephemera, once a unified land, was broken into separated landscapes by warriors of the light in order to trap the Eater of the World, the darkest of evils, into an isolated landscape. Years later, to get from one landscape to another people have to cross stationary bridges, but there are also resonanting bridges - those that resonate with your deepest desires, taking you to the place you truly belong to. Sebastian is a half-inccubus living in the Den of Iniquity, a dark landscape full of vice and little virtue - but to Sebastian, the Den has been more a home to him than the 'light' landscape of Wizard City, where he was shunned and neglected as a child when not taken home by his kind, landscaper aunt. Now, dark forces are stirring and landscapers and bridges, those people who create parts of the world and keep them connected, are disappearing and someone, or something, is trying to free the Eater from it's dark prison. It's up to Sebastion to help save Ephemera from its untimely doom and those he loves while preparing for the ultimate battle which will come to his cousin, Glorianna. Probably the most powerful of landscapers, and outcasted by her own kind, Glorianna is the only one with power strong enough to face the Eater of the World, but at what cost to herself and those she cares about? Stay Tuned! I've got to say this was like a breath of fresh air for me - I had purchased Sebastian nearly 3 years before and had yet to pick it up because I was worried it was going to be a step down from the Tir Alainn trilogy. I love Bishop, but of everything I've read so far by her, Tir Alainn was my least favorite (although still entertaining!). But Ephemera was a return to some of the darker themes that were more characteristic of The Black Jewels. I will say that I wish Ephemera had been expanded into at least a trilogy, because some parts of the story could have used a little more development (for example the relationship between Glorianna and Michael...), but perhaps Bishop intended the story to have this sense of immediacy with all the focus being in the present, rather than the future. Either way, I enjoyed these two books, and recommend them - I'll probably be re-reading them during my annual re-read next year!
**** 4 stars
Duology Includes:
1. Sebastian
2. Belladonna
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
New book, new review!
Evermore - by Alyson Noel. When Ever survives the car crash that takes the lives of the rest of her family, she returns back to the living with strange new abilities. She is able to 'read' peoples' auras and hear their thoughts (I know, I know....Edward you started this all!). Once the most popular girl in school, Ever now dresses in oversized clothing, dark sunglasses, and loud earbuds to drown out the voices and retain some anonymity. A strange new student in an unfamiliar school, Ever's life has taken a nose dive for the worst - until the super sexy, dark Damen shows up. He's everything a girl would want - rich, good-looking, kind, and best of all, he makes the voices in Ever's head go away. But Damen is not your average guy, and there's more to him than meets the eye. What is it about him that causes the supernatural abilities Ever has to stop working? Soon Ever's world is turned upside down as she tries to cope with the truth about Damen, and her very own existence.... Ok, I have to be honest, not the best book I've read . It seems that now I'm reading a string of 3 stars to counter all the 5 stars I reviewed when I first started this blog. What didn't I like about it? RUSHED STORY! Like previously stated, this could've been a really great book, the concept was really cool and it took the supernatural to a new level (aka not a Twilight rip-off). But the romance was rushed, there seemed to be no reason why Ever was suddenly in love with Damen, and in terms of the bad guy, that definitely could've been fleshed out a bit more in order to create a more satisfying ending. One other thing I didn't like was the immature language of the writing - which I promptly realized was characteristic of Noel's writing, since previously she had only published teeny bopper stories about girls in Laguna Beach, etc etc. All in all, I was glad I read it, but I really don't understand what some of the hype was about (in every bookstore this was featured in the teen section as a must read). It was, on a very basic level, entertaining, but lacking in any real substance. I may possibly check out the sequel (due out this July), but only if I can't find anything else to catch my attention.
*** 3 stars
'Evermore' is book one in Noel's "Immortals" series - I believe book two is called "Blue Moon"
Evermore - by Alyson Noel. When Ever survives the car crash that takes the lives of the rest of her family, she returns back to the living with strange new abilities. She is able to 'read' peoples' auras and hear their thoughts (I know, I know....Edward you started this all!). Once the most popular girl in school, Ever now dresses in oversized clothing, dark sunglasses, and loud earbuds to drown out the voices and retain some anonymity. A strange new student in an unfamiliar school, Ever's life has taken a nose dive for the worst - until the super sexy, dark Damen shows up. He's everything a girl would want - rich, good-looking, kind, and best of all, he makes the voices in Ever's head go away. But Damen is not your average guy, and there's more to him than meets the eye. What is it about him that causes the supernatural abilities Ever has to stop working? Soon Ever's world is turned upside down as she tries to cope with the truth about Damen, and her very own existence.... Ok, I have to be honest, not the best book I've read . It seems that now I'm reading a string of 3 stars to counter all the 5 stars I reviewed when I first started this blog. What didn't I like about it? RUSHED STORY! Like previously stated, this could've been a really great book, the concept was really cool and it took the supernatural to a new level (aka not a Twilight rip-off). But the romance was rushed, there seemed to be no reason why Ever was suddenly in love with Damen, and in terms of the bad guy, that definitely could've been fleshed out a bit more in order to create a more satisfying ending. One other thing I didn't like was the immature language of the writing - which I promptly realized was characteristic of Noel's writing, since previously she had only published teeny bopper stories about girls in Laguna Beach, etc etc. All in all, I was glad I read it, but I really don't understand what some of the hype was about (in every bookstore this was featured in the teen section as a must read). It was, on a very basic level, entertaining, but lacking in any real substance. I may possibly check out the sequel (due out this July), but only if I can't find anything else to catch my attention.
*** 3 stars
'Evermore' is book one in Noel's "Immortals" series - I believe book two is called "Blue Moon"
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Another trilogy by my favorite adult romance writer, so here it goes...
The Sign of Seven Trilogy by Nora Roberts - In the small town of Hawkin's Hollow, every seven years, during the seventh month, for seven days a darkness infects the residents and creatures living within its borders causing them to act wayyyyy out of character and do the most horrific and unspeakable things to each other. The main protagonists are three men who are inadvertently responsible for this spooky and dangerous phenomenon - as ten year old boys they snuck into the dark woods of the Hollow and performed a ritual to make themselves blood brothers, but they also unwittingly released an evil force which had been imprisoned in the Pagan Stone - an altar like boulder that lay center of the clearing. Escaping with their lives, they walk out of the clearing with the ability to regenerate and heal inhumanly fast and each is granted a particular pyschic ability. Since that time, each "Seven," as Roberts dubbs it, is getting progressivly worse and Cal, Fox, and Gage have vowed that this upcoming Seven of their 31st birthday (oh yeah they all share the same birth date), will be the last. In come three women - Quinn, Layla, and Cybil - who bring fortitude, brains, skill, and determination to the table in order to help stop an evil from perpetuating itself, for all involved know that this is the final win or lose, live or die battle against evil. But have the women arrived there by coincidence? I think not - everyone is connected and Quinn, Layla, and Cybil have something very important to bring to the fight, even if they're unaware of it. Can 6 ordinary people with some extradordinary abilities stop, once and for all, the darkness plaguing their town? Stay Tuned! Like I'd written previously, The Key Trilogy by Roberts is still my all time favorite of her supernatural stories (there is one that is about vampires, which I may write about later but that one falls flat in the third and final book). I enjoyed the Sign of Seven trilogy, considering I've already read it twice since I've purchased it, but that's hardly surprising since I normally re-read most, if not all, my Roberts. The idea is really great, the execution is somewhat mediocre. The story still has those typical literary devices that make Roberts' fiction enjoyable, and I enjoyed the romances (especially between the first two couples), but there is one thing that really really really drove me crazy, which became apparent the second time I read it.... and that is Roberts' over-writing of the "All for one, and one for all" theme she had going. I understood the need to emphasize the group effort to thwart the evil bad guy, because hey, everyone had something to contribute to the weapon they ultimately try to use, BUT, every freaking chapter seemed to contain at least one Cub Scout Campfire scene. The story probably would've benefitted from fewer of those scenes and a little more development between the characters or something. It became pretty apparent pretty soon that this was a group - don't really need to be reminded of it all the time. Other than that, it was enjoyable, if very easy to read. Again, perfect for the beach or the commute to work or whatever.
*** 3 and 1/2 - 4 stars
Trilogy Includes:
1. Blood Brothers
2. The Hollow (my personal fave)
3. The Pagan Stone
The Sign of Seven Trilogy by Nora Roberts - In the small town of Hawkin's Hollow, every seven years, during the seventh month, for seven days a darkness infects the residents and creatures living within its borders causing them to act wayyyyy out of character and do the most horrific and unspeakable things to each other. The main protagonists are three men who are inadvertently responsible for this spooky and dangerous phenomenon - as ten year old boys they snuck into the dark woods of the Hollow and performed a ritual to make themselves blood brothers, but they also unwittingly released an evil force which had been imprisoned in the Pagan Stone - an altar like boulder that lay center of the clearing. Escaping with their lives, they walk out of the clearing with the ability to regenerate and heal inhumanly fast and each is granted a particular pyschic ability. Since that time, each "Seven," as Roberts dubbs it, is getting progressivly worse and Cal, Fox, and Gage have vowed that this upcoming Seven of their 31st birthday (oh yeah they all share the same birth date), will be the last. In come three women - Quinn, Layla, and Cybil - who bring fortitude, brains, skill, and determination to the table in order to help stop an evil from perpetuating itself, for all involved know that this is the final win or lose, live or die battle against evil. But have the women arrived there by coincidence? I think not - everyone is connected and Quinn, Layla, and Cybil have something very important to bring to the fight, even if they're unaware of it. Can 6 ordinary people with some extradordinary abilities stop, once and for all, the darkness plaguing their town? Stay Tuned! Like I'd written previously, The Key Trilogy by Roberts is still my all time favorite of her supernatural stories (there is one that is about vampires, which I may write about later but that one falls flat in the third and final book). I enjoyed the Sign of Seven trilogy, considering I've already read it twice since I've purchased it, but that's hardly surprising since I normally re-read most, if not all, my Roberts. The idea is really great, the execution is somewhat mediocre. The story still has those typical literary devices that make Roberts' fiction enjoyable, and I enjoyed the romances (especially between the first two couples), but there is one thing that really really really drove me crazy, which became apparent the second time I read it.... and that is Roberts' over-writing of the "All for one, and one for all" theme she had going. I understood the need to emphasize the group effort to thwart the evil bad guy, because hey, everyone had something to contribute to the weapon they ultimately try to use, BUT, every freaking chapter seemed to contain at least one Cub Scout Campfire scene. The story probably would've benefitted from fewer of those scenes and a little more development between the characters or something. It became pretty apparent pretty soon that this was a group - don't really need to be reminded of it all the time. Other than that, it was enjoyable, if very easy to read. Again, perfect for the beach or the commute to work or whatever.
*** 3 and 1/2 - 4 stars
Trilogy Includes:
1. Blood Brothers
2. The Hollow (my personal fave)
3. The Pagan Stone
Friday, June 5, 2009
So I took a chance and read a book by a new author who's taking her own little dip into the vampire young adult genre...
Evernight by Claudia Gray - When Bianca is forced to attend the prestigious, yet eerily gothic, Evernight Academy she recognizes that something is seriously wrong at the school. Stuck there since both her mother and father are teachers at the school Bianca, painfully shy to the point of anxiety attacks, hates every moment - until, during a weak runaway attempt, she meets the handsome Lucas Ross. The two have an instant connection and chemistry, emphasized by Lucas' strangely overprotective tendencies towards Bianca. But things are not really what they seem at Everynight - it turns out to be a school, and safe haven, for vampires. As certain events unfold, Bianca discovers the lengths she's willing to go to be with Lucas and make sure their love survives.... Where to start? This was an interesting read, but I felt that Gray could've taken it to the next level and didn't. The worst part of the story wasa how rushed the plot felt, for example Lucas and Bianca had great instant chemistry and connection almost immediately, but for some reason Gray just decided to go from that to instant, head over heels love without really having the characters discover each other beyond a superficial level. The unfortunate thing about that is she had the opportunity to write a really great romance, one that comes with all the confusion, misunderstandings, and heartache that usually precedes a satisfying happy ending but not of that was present in the novel. The one thing I did like was that (SPOILER) Gray made Bianca the vampire here, not the boy. Yet again, however, there was no indication that Bianca was a vampire until half-way through the book, which I found really unusual since the story is told from her perspective. A revelation like that would've been more appropriate from third party perspective but not in this case. I also thought Lucas' reaction to the new was unusual considering his role in the book. Gray also ripped off the Stephenie Meyer tool of making the prologue the ending, and then having the first chapter go back to earlier events. All in all, it was an ok read, one that really would've benefitted from more plot development since everything was rushed, not well explained, and the ending was a bit anticlimactic - seriously could've had anywhere from 100 - 150 extra pages with no lag in the story. I'll probably pick up the second book because I'm curious to see what happens to Bianca and Lucas next, and because Evernight felt like the very brief introduction to what will hopefully be a more rich, and complex story (but I won't be holding my breath in hopes that the Evernight series becomes a particular favorite of mine).
*** 3 stars (barely...)
Series so far includes:
1. Evernight
2. Stargazer
Evernight by Claudia Gray - When Bianca is forced to attend the prestigious, yet eerily gothic, Evernight Academy she recognizes that something is seriously wrong at the school. Stuck there since both her mother and father are teachers at the school Bianca, painfully shy to the point of anxiety attacks, hates every moment - until, during a weak runaway attempt, she meets the handsome Lucas Ross. The two have an instant connection and chemistry, emphasized by Lucas' strangely overprotective tendencies towards Bianca. But things are not really what they seem at Everynight - it turns out to be a school, and safe haven, for vampires. As certain events unfold, Bianca discovers the lengths she's willing to go to be with Lucas and make sure their love survives.... Where to start? This was an interesting read, but I felt that Gray could've taken it to the next level and didn't. The worst part of the story wasa how rushed the plot felt, for example Lucas and Bianca had great instant chemistry and connection almost immediately, but for some reason Gray just decided to go from that to instant, head over heels love without really having the characters discover each other beyond a superficial level. The unfortunate thing about that is she had the opportunity to write a really great romance, one that comes with all the confusion, misunderstandings, and heartache that usually precedes a satisfying happy ending but not of that was present in the novel. The one thing I did like was that (SPOILER) Gray made Bianca the vampire here, not the boy. Yet again, however, there was no indication that Bianca was a vampire until half-way through the book, which I found really unusual since the story is told from her perspective. A revelation like that would've been more appropriate from third party perspective but not in this case. I also thought Lucas' reaction to the new was unusual considering his role in the book. Gray also ripped off the Stephenie Meyer tool of making the prologue the ending, and then having the first chapter go back to earlier events. All in all, it was an ok read, one that really would've benefitted from more plot development since everything was rushed, not well explained, and the ending was a bit anticlimactic - seriously could've had anywhere from 100 - 150 extra pages with no lag in the story. I'll probably pick up the second book because I'm curious to see what happens to Bianca and Lucas next, and because Evernight felt like the very brief introduction to what will hopefully be a more rich, and complex story (but I won't be holding my breath in hopes that the Evernight series becomes a particular favorite of mine).
*** 3 stars (barely...)
Series so far includes:
1. Evernight
2. Stargazer
Thursday, June 4, 2009
wow wow wow! Brand new series, totally awesome, and it needs mentioning!
The Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare - by far, my new favorite series that I can remember in recent history (well, at least since Twilight :). Here's how it breaks down - on a typical weekend night, 16 y/o Clary Fray doesn't expect to witness a murder at her favorite Brooklyn club, much less committed by a group of teenagers covered in strange and elaborate markings. What follows is totally bizarre: Clary's mom randomly freaks, demanding they pack up and go, but goes missing before hand and Clary is confronted by the deliciously sexy Jace, a golden god, and one of the teenagers who participated in the previous night's "murder." Clary is sucked into the world of Shadowhunters, an elite group of people who are descended from the Angel Raziel and are committed to ridding the Earth of demon kind. With her perception of reality totally skewed, Clary discovers that the stuff of nightmares, and other unworldly creatures like vampires, werewolves, warlocks, and fairies, do in fact exist and live among us. Clary also develops the Sight, the ability that allows her to see this other world normally blocked to everyday humans. In doing so, however, she has to deal with questions about the circumstances of her birth and dealing with a new found ability unique to only her. Filled with drama, excitement, danger, love (and triangles!), and frustrations this was freaking AWESOME! I've loved a lot of the books I've recently read, but this is one of those series that I took with me to my new apartment in New York because I was unwilling to part with it and knew that two months from now I'm probably going to re-read it. And, the last book was recently published so for all those who take a shine to the Mortal Instruments, there is no waiting involved! I'm seriously psyched for the next series Clare writes (called the Infernal Instruments), even if that is still long in coming. Perfect for the summer and if you're looking for something that is totally engrossing.
***** 5 Stars!
Trilogy Includes:
1. The City of Bones
2. The City of Ashes
3. The City of Glass
The Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare - by far, my new favorite series that I can remember in recent history (well, at least since Twilight :). Here's how it breaks down - on a typical weekend night, 16 y/o Clary Fray doesn't expect to witness a murder at her favorite Brooklyn club, much less committed by a group of teenagers covered in strange and elaborate markings. What follows is totally bizarre: Clary's mom randomly freaks, demanding they pack up and go, but goes missing before hand and Clary is confronted by the deliciously sexy Jace, a golden god, and one of the teenagers who participated in the previous night's "murder." Clary is sucked into the world of Shadowhunters, an elite group of people who are descended from the Angel Raziel and are committed to ridding the Earth of demon kind. With her perception of reality totally skewed, Clary discovers that the stuff of nightmares, and other unworldly creatures like vampires, werewolves, warlocks, and fairies, do in fact exist and live among us. Clary also develops the Sight, the ability that allows her to see this other world normally blocked to everyday humans. In doing so, however, she has to deal with questions about the circumstances of her birth and dealing with a new found ability unique to only her. Filled with drama, excitement, danger, love (and triangles!), and frustrations this was freaking AWESOME! I've loved a lot of the books I've recently read, but this is one of those series that I took with me to my new apartment in New York because I was unwilling to part with it and knew that two months from now I'm probably going to re-read it. And, the last book was recently published so for all those who take a shine to the Mortal Instruments, there is no waiting involved! I'm seriously psyched for the next series Clare writes (called the Infernal Instruments), even if that is still long in coming. Perfect for the summer and if you're looking for something that is totally engrossing.
***** 5 Stars!
Trilogy Includes:
1. The City of Bones
2. The City of Ashes
3. The City of Glass
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Trying to plow through the series as I read them....
The Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts - so I haven't recently read this, but of all the trilogies Roberts writes of the paranormal variety, I consider this to be the best one. In a small valley town in Pennsylvania, three women get exclusive invites to enjoy an evening at the beautiful, and mysterious Warrior's Peak - the dominating architectural wonder that stands guard above the valley. Mallory, Dana, and Zoe are all at crossroads in their lives, and are offered by the eccentric young couple who live there a chance to turn their misfortunes around. The terms? Each woman has exactly one month, with the help of a clue, to find a magically charged key. If the first succeeds, the following two have a shot at recovering their respective keys. If anyone fails, the whole thing is caput. The prize: $1 million, scotch free, and the penalty of failure: the loss of one year from their lives. While this may seem like a simple game initially, Mallory, Dana, and Zoe soon learn that the keys unlock the chest which holds imprisoned three souls of young demi-goddesses, daughters of the King of the Gods. The curse says that only the hands of mortal women can undue the spell, and while the women struggle with finding a key that could be anywhere, they are also hindered by the evil Kane, the god who trapped the souls in the chest in the first place and will do anything to make sure they don't suceed. Filled with intrigue, adventure, danger, and most important, love, this is a great series, one that I have read multiple times. I think the reason I like it so much is mostly because the characters are really awesome and the relationships aren't so trite - Roberts clearly establishes a connection between them that doesn't come off as contrived or mickey mouse 'clubby,' which she'll have problems with in some of her later writings. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the bad guy is super sexy in a dark, malicious, I like killing mortals kind of way. Quite possibly one of my favorites by her, and I've read EVERYTHING she's every written so that's a pretty good recommendation!
***** 5 stars
Trilogy Includes:
1. The Key of Light
2. The Key of Knowledge
3. The Key of Valor
The Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts - so I haven't recently read this, but of all the trilogies Roberts writes of the paranormal variety, I consider this to be the best one. In a small valley town in Pennsylvania, three women get exclusive invites to enjoy an evening at the beautiful, and mysterious Warrior's Peak - the dominating architectural wonder that stands guard above the valley. Mallory, Dana, and Zoe are all at crossroads in their lives, and are offered by the eccentric young couple who live there a chance to turn their misfortunes around. The terms? Each woman has exactly one month, with the help of a clue, to find a magically charged key. If the first succeeds, the following two have a shot at recovering their respective keys. If anyone fails, the whole thing is caput. The prize: $1 million, scotch free, and the penalty of failure: the loss of one year from their lives. While this may seem like a simple game initially, Mallory, Dana, and Zoe soon learn that the keys unlock the chest which holds imprisoned three souls of young demi-goddesses, daughters of the King of the Gods. The curse says that only the hands of mortal women can undue the spell, and while the women struggle with finding a key that could be anywhere, they are also hindered by the evil Kane, the god who trapped the souls in the chest in the first place and will do anything to make sure they don't suceed. Filled with intrigue, adventure, danger, and most important, love, this is a great series, one that I have read multiple times. I think the reason I like it so much is mostly because the characters are really awesome and the relationships aren't so trite - Roberts clearly establishes a connection between them that doesn't come off as contrived or mickey mouse 'clubby,' which she'll have problems with in some of her later writings. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the bad guy is super sexy in a dark, malicious, I like killing mortals kind of way. Quite possibly one of my favorites by her, and I've read EVERYTHING she's every written so that's a pretty good recommendation!
***** 5 stars
Trilogy Includes:
1. The Key of Light
2. The Key of Knowledge
3. The Key of Valor
Friday, May 29, 2009
Man oh Man, is summer my favorite time of the year because now I'm reading an average of 4 books a week so I've got lots to write about!
The Immortals Quartet by Tamora Pierce - I know I mentioned in a previous blog that if you enjoyed the Alanna and Trickster books, you should just go ahead and read all of Pierce's books and I was going to leave it at that, but I feel the need to post this. The story opens up when 13-y/o Veraldaine Sarrasri, Daine for short, runs away from home and is given a position working for the horsemistress of the Queen's Riders (combat group formed by Queen Thayet of Tortall). What most everyone, including Daine herself, mistake as a keen affinity with animals is really wild magic, a rare brand of magic. Daine has it quantities that have never before been seen, allowing her to communicate and understand animals, and later, shapeshift at will into any creature she desires. Daine's abilities make her invaluable to her monarchs and kingdom, and with her mage teacher, Numair Salmalin, she embarks on many adventures that will help change the course of events for her kingdom, bring her face to face with Immortals from the Divine Realms and also help reveal the strange origins of her birth. This is a great coming of age story filled with adventure, humor, friendship, and blossoming self-awareness that will really keep you turning the page well into the night. I'd have to say, after the Song of the Lioness Quartet, the Immortals was totally my favorite and I really loved the characters of these particular stories. Be warned, if you get the first make sure the second is within reach because you'll want it immediately!
***** 5 stars
Quartet Includes:
1. Wild Magic
2. Wolf-Speaker
3. Emperor Mage
4. The Realm of the Gods
The Immortals Quartet by Tamora Pierce - I know I mentioned in a previous blog that if you enjoyed the Alanna and Trickster books, you should just go ahead and read all of Pierce's books and I was going to leave it at that, but I feel the need to post this. The story opens up when 13-y/o Veraldaine Sarrasri, Daine for short, runs away from home and is given a position working for the horsemistress of the Queen's Riders (combat group formed by Queen Thayet of Tortall). What most everyone, including Daine herself, mistake as a keen affinity with animals is really wild magic, a rare brand of magic. Daine has it quantities that have never before been seen, allowing her to communicate and understand animals, and later, shapeshift at will into any creature she desires. Daine's abilities make her invaluable to her monarchs and kingdom, and with her mage teacher, Numair Salmalin, she embarks on many adventures that will help change the course of events for her kingdom, bring her face to face with Immortals from the Divine Realms and also help reveal the strange origins of her birth. This is a great coming of age story filled with adventure, humor, friendship, and blossoming self-awareness that will really keep you turning the page well into the night. I'd have to say, after the Song of the Lioness Quartet, the Immortals was totally my favorite and I really loved the characters of these particular stories. Be warned, if you get the first make sure the second is within reach because you'll want it immediately!
***** 5 stars
Quartet Includes:
1. Wild Magic
2. Wolf-Speaker
3. Emperor Mage
4. The Realm of the Gods
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
With the end of May, comes June and summer, so I've decided to review a book in a genre slightly different from what I'm used to writing about...
Something Borrowed by Emily Giffen - this is what I would categorize as 'chick lit.' On the eve of her 30th birthday Rachel is thrown a 'surprise' birthday party by her best friend - the stunning, Darcy. Her entire life, Rachel has been one upped by Darcy, who has everything - model looks, hot body, hot men, and the greatest, and undeserved, luck. After the party, in which Darcy proceeded to steal her spotlight, Rachel sleeps with Darcy's fiance. A total mistake, as they were both drunk and things got a little out of hand. What starts out as a one time event becomes something more and so begins a story of friendship, love, and the sacrifices and chances one is willing to make in order to reach real happiness. Perfect for a summer read, and as I've read it a couple of times, pretty entertaining. Every one of my friend's to whom I've lent this book loves it and relate to the main character and her struggles (hello, ladies, have we not all had our own Darcy? I think so...). It's also a super quick read so it's great for an afternoon at the park or lounging around on the beach.
**** 4 stars
Something Borrowed by Emily Giffen - this is what I would categorize as 'chick lit.' On the eve of her 30th birthday Rachel is thrown a 'surprise' birthday party by her best friend - the stunning, Darcy. Her entire life, Rachel has been one upped by Darcy, who has everything - model looks, hot body, hot men, and the greatest, and undeserved, luck. After the party, in which Darcy proceeded to steal her spotlight, Rachel sleeps with Darcy's fiance. A total mistake, as they were both drunk and things got a little out of hand. What starts out as a one time event becomes something more and so begins a story of friendship, love, and the sacrifices and chances one is willing to make in order to reach real happiness. Perfect for a summer read, and as I've read it a couple of times, pretty entertaining. Every one of my friend's to whom I've lent this book loves it and relate to the main character and her struggles (hello, ladies, have we not all had our own Darcy? I think so...). It's also a super quick read so it's great for an afternoon at the park or lounging around on the beach.
**** 4 stars
Monday, May 4, 2009
Ok, it's been awhile, but with graduation and trying to get my life in order, seems understandable. Since I blogged about Anne Bishop last time I felt compelled to read the other trilogy she's written. Now I'm reviewing it...
The Tir Alainn Trilogy by Anne Bishop - In the land of Sylvalan an evil has invaded its borders in the form of Adolfo, Master Inquisitor and Witch's Hammer. Having instigated a major witch hunt, innocent women are being slaughtered everywhere and as a result the world of the Fae, called Tir Alainn (the fair land), suffers. The main plot chronicles the story of a young and lonely witch names Ari, who finds herself the object of attentions from Lucian, the lightbringer and male leader of the fae, her handsome and shy neighbor Neal, and the inquisitors, who threaten Ari, her way of life, and witches all over. Over the course of three books, the story chronicles the efforts of a handful of fae, witches, and magical forces who unite to try to stop a dark, twisted evil and save their races from extinction. This is just a very brief, and not even thorough, summary - so much more actually happens than I can transcribe in just this review, but for all those who want to give it a shot I think you'll find the effort well worth it - although this is no where near as freaking awesome as the Black Jewels Trilogy. Enjoy!
**** 4 stars
Trilogy Includes:
1. Pillars of the World
2. Shadows and Light
3. House of Gaian
The Tir Alainn Trilogy by Anne Bishop - In the land of Sylvalan an evil has invaded its borders in the form of Adolfo, Master Inquisitor and Witch's Hammer. Having instigated a major witch hunt, innocent women are being slaughtered everywhere and as a result the world of the Fae, called Tir Alainn (the fair land), suffers. The main plot chronicles the story of a young and lonely witch names Ari, who finds herself the object of attentions from Lucian, the lightbringer and male leader of the fae, her handsome and shy neighbor Neal, and the inquisitors, who threaten Ari, her way of life, and witches all over. Over the course of three books, the story chronicles the efforts of a handful of fae, witches, and magical forces who unite to try to stop a dark, twisted evil and save their races from extinction. This is just a very brief, and not even thorough, summary - so much more actually happens than I can transcribe in just this review, but for all those who want to give it a shot I think you'll find the effort well worth it - although this is no where near as freaking awesome as the Black Jewels Trilogy. Enjoy!
**** 4 stars
Trilogy Includes:
1. Pillars of the World
2. Shadows and Light
3. House of Gaian
Thursday, April 23, 2009
This next review is written about one of my all time favorite book series...
The Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop - this is an older trilogy (almost 11 years old), but one of my absolute favorites. The setting is another world entirely, one that consists of three realms - Terreille (the terrestrial realm), Hell (the underworld), and Kaleer (the higher realm, not exactly heaven but quasi-celestial in terms of some its more mythical inhabitants). Bear with me as a I try to give a decent synopsis, it's a very complex story that's difficult to describe briefly, and I'm first going to give you an idea of how society is structured. Society constitutes of the 'Blood', humans born with a jewel of power, and landens, non-jeweled humans with no magic abilities whatsoever. The jewels rank from lightest to darkest, white to black, with white being the weakest magically, and black being the most powerful. During adolescence, one makes an offering to the ubiquitious 'darkness,' the almost divine source of their power, and can descend up to three jewel ranks (i.e. if you're born with a red jewel, an already powerful stone, you have the potential to descend to the Black). On top of jewel ranking, there is also social class ranking, and a combination of the two determines your place and influence in society. When reading these books keep this in mind, but there are explanations and definitions at the start of each novel so you should be fine. Ok! Here comes the real meat....the world of the Blood is a matriarchal society, so women have the power and men serve, but in the capacity advisors and companions with the right to disobey the female Blood if it's in their best interest (not slave like at all). However, when the story opens up in Terreille, we learn that society has been completely corrupted by a group of semi-powerful Blood females, led by the malicious Dorothea, a red-jeweled priestess bent on ruling all of Terreille. Men have been completely dominated, the most powerful of whom are forced into harsh slavery (often of a sexual nature). One broken, aka insane, witch, named Tersa, has a prophecy that one day Witch, also known as the Dreams made Flesh, will come and she will be the most powerful witch the world has ever known. Her purpose: to restore order, peace, and balance to the world(s). The main three males most concerned with this myth are Saetan, Daemon, and Lucivar, all extremely powerful men (jewels: black, black, ebon-gray respectivly), who will come to mean something different to Witch as the story progresses. The protagonist is young 8-years Janelle Angeline, she who is Dreams Made Flesh. She soons becomes a pawn in the corrupt game of politics, for who ever controls the Queen controls the Darkness and has access to the greatest force of power the world has ever known. Phew....that was the most concise synopsis I ever gave, if you can believe that! I am not kidding when I say this is a complex book, and it's hard to summarize because unlike something like Harry Potter in which each book is an individual adventure that is connected by overarching themes and events, this series is like one long story, divided into 3 parts. Seriously, I know I don't make it sound too awesome, but even the published summary on the back of the books give very little insight into what the story is actually about. I loved this because the characters were absolutely great. Don't let the names Saetan and Lucivar put you off (love them!), this isn't a story about ghouls and devils (although Saetan is the Lord of Hell, which is one of the three realms - it's not the fiery pit Christian theologists describe it as, but more like the dark underworld Hades of Ancient Greek religion). Warning: I will say this, if you're really young (say, under 13 - 14), you may want to avoid this for a couple of years. Particular parts of the story are graphic and there is some disturbing content (i.e. rape). It's not arbitrary, but Bishop uses it to emphasize how corrupt society has become and also the certain challenges and pains Janelle faces growing up Witch. The first book takes place from when she is 8 - 12 years old, the second 12 - 18, and the third 19 - 25 ish. For this reason in particular I loved this series because when I'm following the growth of a person over a substantial period of time I really begin to feel for the character and relate to her (although, since it is complete fantasy I'm relating in a purely mental sense, haha). All I have to say is read it, the story is extremely engaging, keeps you sucked in, and the characters are to die for (LOVE Daemon, so sexy).
***** 5 Stars!
Trilogy Includes:
1. Daughter of the Blood
2. Heir to the Shadows
3. Queen of the Darkness
Also read the following:
4. Dreams made Flesh - this is a small compilation of a few short stories that elaborate on the lives of certain characters (i.e. Saetan's life before the events of the Black Jewels, and Lucivar's activities between Heir to the Shadows and Queen of the Darkness). The largest story follows what happens to Janelle and Daemon after the events of Queen of the Darkness...and that should give away who the primary love interest is in the midst of everything....
The Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop - this is an older trilogy (almost 11 years old), but one of my absolute favorites. The setting is another world entirely, one that consists of three realms - Terreille (the terrestrial realm), Hell (the underworld), and Kaleer (the higher realm, not exactly heaven but quasi-celestial in terms of some its more mythical inhabitants). Bear with me as a I try to give a decent synopsis, it's a very complex story that's difficult to describe briefly, and I'm first going to give you an idea of how society is structured. Society constitutes of the 'Blood', humans born with a jewel of power, and landens, non-jeweled humans with no magic abilities whatsoever. The jewels rank from lightest to darkest, white to black, with white being the weakest magically, and black being the most powerful. During adolescence, one makes an offering to the ubiquitious 'darkness,' the almost divine source of their power, and can descend up to three jewel ranks (i.e. if you're born with a red jewel, an already powerful stone, you have the potential to descend to the Black). On top of jewel ranking, there is also social class ranking, and a combination of the two determines your place and influence in society. When reading these books keep this in mind, but there are explanations and definitions at the start of each novel so you should be fine. Ok! Here comes the real meat....the world of the Blood is a matriarchal society, so women have the power and men serve, but in the capacity advisors and companions with the right to disobey the female Blood if it's in their best interest (not slave like at all). However, when the story opens up in Terreille, we learn that society has been completely corrupted by a group of semi-powerful Blood females, led by the malicious Dorothea, a red-jeweled priestess bent on ruling all of Terreille. Men have been completely dominated, the most powerful of whom are forced into harsh slavery (often of a sexual nature). One broken, aka insane, witch, named Tersa, has a prophecy that one day Witch, also known as the Dreams made Flesh, will come and she will be the most powerful witch the world has ever known. Her purpose: to restore order, peace, and balance to the world(s). The main three males most concerned with this myth are Saetan, Daemon, and Lucivar, all extremely powerful men (jewels: black, black, ebon-gray respectivly), who will come to mean something different to Witch as the story progresses. The protagonist is young 8-years Janelle Angeline, she who is Dreams Made Flesh. She soons becomes a pawn in the corrupt game of politics, for who ever controls the Queen controls the Darkness and has access to the greatest force of power the world has ever known. Phew....that was the most concise synopsis I ever gave, if you can believe that! I am not kidding when I say this is a complex book, and it's hard to summarize because unlike something like Harry Potter in which each book is an individual adventure that is connected by overarching themes and events, this series is like one long story, divided into 3 parts. Seriously, I know I don't make it sound too awesome, but even the published summary on the back of the books give very little insight into what the story is actually about. I loved this because the characters were absolutely great. Don't let the names Saetan and Lucivar put you off (love them!), this isn't a story about ghouls and devils (although Saetan is the Lord of Hell, which is one of the three realms - it's not the fiery pit Christian theologists describe it as, but more like the dark underworld Hades of Ancient Greek religion). Warning: I will say this, if you're really young (say, under 13 - 14), you may want to avoid this for a couple of years. Particular parts of the story are graphic and there is some disturbing content (i.e. rape). It's not arbitrary, but Bishop uses it to emphasize how corrupt society has become and also the certain challenges and pains Janelle faces growing up Witch. The first book takes place from when she is 8 - 12 years old, the second 12 - 18, and the third 19 - 25 ish. For this reason in particular I loved this series because when I'm following the growth of a person over a substantial period of time I really begin to feel for the character and relate to her (although, since it is complete fantasy I'm relating in a purely mental sense, haha). All I have to say is read it, the story is extremely engaging, keeps you sucked in, and the characters are to die for (LOVE Daemon, so sexy).
***** 5 Stars!
Trilogy Includes:
1. Daughter of the Blood
2. Heir to the Shadows
3. Queen of the Darkness
Also read the following:
4. Dreams made Flesh - this is a small compilation of a few short stories that elaborate on the lives of certain characters (i.e. Saetan's life before the events of the Black Jewels, and Lucivar's activities between Heir to the Shadows and Queen of the Darkness). The largest story follows what happens to Janelle and Daemon after the events of Queen of the Darkness...and that should give away who the primary love interest is in the midst of everything....
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
I can't help myself I want to post another recommendation! Plus.... this is a great way to procrastinate :)
Under the Blood Red Moon by Mina Hepsen - Angelica Shelton Belanov, a half-Russian and half-English aristocrat, is most happy when hidden away in the library of her father's English country estate, but when the family fortune is suddenly lost, Angelica, despite her own wishes, goes in search of a wealthy husband to keep her and her brother financially secure. She does, however, have one unusual gift....she's able to hear the thoughts of others (a la Edward Cullen). So when the mysterious and darkly attractive Prince Alexander comes onto the English social scene, Angelica is instantly intrigued. Little does she know that Alex is a powerful vampire lord of Eastern immortals, come to England to hunt a rogue vampire that threatens to expose them all and their well protected place among human society. Angelica finds herself in over her head, but will risk is to save her family from ruin and explore the strong sexual pull she feels towards Alexander. I thought this was a fun read, but it had very little substance to it....just another average author who decided to jump on the vampire bandwagon that is popular fiction today. It was entertaining, with some sexy moments, and an incredibly fast read, but there was little character development and the romance seemed a bit rushed (nothing annoys me more than rushed plot development!). If Hepsen had rounded out Alexander and the villan that would probably have helped, because we get a decent enough idea of who Angelica is since the story is told from her perspective. I can imagine that this would be great for a quick late night chapter or an afternoon on the beach, but it's not a necessary staple to any romance, fantasy, or vampire lovers library.
*** 3 stars
Under the Blood Red Moon by Mina Hepsen - Angelica Shelton Belanov, a half-Russian and half-English aristocrat, is most happy when hidden away in the library of her father's English country estate, but when the family fortune is suddenly lost, Angelica, despite her own wishes, goes in search of a wealthy husband to keep her and her brother financially secure. She does, however, have one unusual gift....she's able to hear the thoughts of others (a la Edward Cullen). So when the mysterious and darkly attractive Prince Alexander comes onto the English social scene, Angelica is instantly intrigued. Little does she know that Alex is a powerful vampire lord of Eastern immortals, come to England to hunt a rogue vampire that threatens to expose them all and their well protected place among human society. Angelica finds herself in over her head, but will risk is to save her family from ruin and explore the strong sexual pull she feels towards Alexander. I thought this was a fun read, but it had very little substance to it....just another average author who decided to jump on the vampire bandwagon that is popular fiction today. It was entertaining, with some sexy moments, and an incredibly fast read, but there was little character development and the romance seemed a bit rushed (nothing annoys me more than rushed plot development!). If Hepsen had rounded out Alexander and the villan that would probably have helped, because we get a decent enough idea of who Angelica is since the story is told from her perspective. I can imagine that this would be great for a quick late night chapter or an afternoon on the beach, but it's not a necessary staple to any romance, fantasy, or vampire lovers library.
*** 3 stars
Here's what I consider to be a classic series that you all really should read...
His Dark Materials Trilogy by Phillip Pullman - one of the classic child / teen series in the genre of sci-fi / fantasy. The trilogy opens up in the parallel world of Jordon College (our equivalent of Oxford). Living in the hallowed halls is 12-years old Lyra Belacqua, ward of the Master of Jordon College. One fateful afternoon Lyra, hiding in a closet in the Master's private sitting room, witnesses someone pour poison into a wine intended for her uncle, Lord Asriel, who has come to Jordon to show the scholars of the school an incredible discovery he has made. After having his life saved by the vigilant Lyra, Asriel soon departs leaving behind a miserable Lyra who wants to go with her uncle on his adventures. At this time rumors are spreading from town to town of children being kidnapped, by the so-called "Gobblers." This doesn't seem to worry Lyra overmuch, until one night when her best friend, Roger, is also taken by the Gobblers. Subsequently, Lyra starts a journey to the North to retrieve her friend and thwart the evil plans of the Magisteriate, the organization behind the vicious kidnappings. This, however, doesn't simply remain a rescue mission, but sets into a motion a prophecy in which Lyra is a key figure. Frought with peril, danger, and meetings with pirates and talking polar bears this is a great tale of adventure and self-discovery. The first book starts off as a single tale but is only the beginning of something much more epic that pans out in the last two books. Warning: this is an extremely Anti-Christian series, what is often considered a response to the very Pro-Christian Chronicles of Narnia, so if that's going to offend your sensibilities I would exercize caution. It can be enjoyed as simply a tale of fantasy ficton, but, in my opinion the story is also enhanced by the religious allegories and theological substance of the tale, which is why it's great for both children and adults. I highly recommend it because it's a series that requires more thinking, and still remains very gripping and suspensful. I would also recommend buying all three books at the same time because of the cliffhangers - the format is more like one long story chopped up into three parts, and each book picks up right where the previous left off.
***** 5 stars!
Trilogy Includes:
1. The Golden Compass
2. The Subtle Knife
3. The Amber Spyglass
His Dark Materials Trilogy by Phillip Pullman - one of the classic child / teen series in the genre of sci-fi / fantasy. The trilogy opens up in the parallel world of Jordon College (our equivalent of Oxford). Living in the hallowed halls is 12-years old Lyra Belacqua, ward of the Master of Jordon College. One fateful afternoon Lyra, hiding in a closet in the Master's private sitting room, witnesses someone pour poison into a wine intended for her uncle, Lord Asriel, who has come to Jordon to show the scholars of the school an incredible discovery he has made. After having his life saved by the vigilant Lyra, Asriel soon departs leaving behind a miserable Lyra who wants to go with her uncle on his adventures. At this time rumors are spreading from town to town of children being kidnapped, by the so-called "Gobblers." This doesn't seem to worry Lyra overmuch, until one night when her best friend, Roger, is also taken by the Gobblers. Subsequently, Lyra starts a journey to the North to retrieve her friend and thwart the evil plans of the Magisteriate, the organization behind the vicious kidnappings. This, however, doesn't simply remain a rescue mission, but sets into a motion a prophecy in which Lyra is a key figure. Frought with peril, danger, and meetings with pirates and talking polar bears this is a great tale of adventure and self-discovery. The first book starts off as a single tale but is only the beginning of something much more epic that pans out in the last two books. Warning: this is an extremely Anti-Christian series, what is often considered a response to the very Pro-Christian Chronicles of Narnia, so if that's going to offend your sensibilities I would exercize caution. It can be enjoyed as simply a tale of fantasy ficton, but, in my opinion the story is also enhanced by the religious allegories and theological substance of the tale, which is why it's great for both children and adults. I highly recommend it because it's a series that requires more thinking, and still remains very gripping and suspensful. I would also recommend buying all three books at the same time because of the cliffhangers - the format is more like one long story chopped up into three parts, and each book picks up right where the previous left off.
***** 5 stars!
Trilogy Includes:
1. The Golden Compass
2. The Subtle Knife
3. The Amber Spyglass
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Ok, I must be imagining things....on a previous post, I wrote that The Host by Stephenie Meyer would be coming out in paperback on April 26, 2009. HOWEVER, although I swear I thought I saw it posted as such on Amazon, I can't find any record of a paperback release on that date. In fact, I can't find a paperback release for any date! I must be delusional, or I really wanted it to be, so I imagined it. Sorry for the miscommunication!
Mrs. E.C.
Mrs. E.C.
Here's something with a bite of different flavor....
Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier - Marillier has made a pretty awesome name for herself in the realm of adult fantasy. I really enjoy historical fiction, and I especially those based in folklore (which is moving more into the fantasy realm, I suppose...), and this book by Marillier is actually based on an old Celtic legend. It follows the story of Sorcha, the youngest child, and only dauaghter, of the powerful Irish lord of Sevenwaters, who is well loved and favored by her 6 older brothers. They live relatively peaceful and content lives, but that changes when her father brings home a new wife, but looks can be decieving. She's young, beautiful, and by all appearances a devoted woman, but in reality she's a sorceress who casts a spell on Sorcha's 6 brothers that turns them into swans. Sorcha, fortunately, escapes the same fate, and with the help of the Lady of the Forest is given a task to help break the spell and return her brothers back to their human forms, under certain conditions - she's not allowed to speak until her task is completed and not to tell anyone what she hopes to achieve with her task. Sorcha's adventure is fraught with danger and obstacles, and she must try to break the spell, while at the same time trying to protect her heart from the Briton (enemies of the Irish) who 'kidnapps' her away. I thought this was a pretty good book, Marillier's use of language was excellent, but it was a bit slow to start and the course of Sorcha's thoughts have a tendency of slowing down the plot at some points. All in all, I'm glad I bought the book and plan on reading more of Marillier's books in the future.
**** 4 Stars
Sevenwaters Trilogy Includes:
1. Daughter of the Forest
2. Son of the Shadows
3. Child of the Prophecy
I reviewed this book as a stand alone, (1) because I've only read the first book and (2) because although this is a trilogy each book is about a different character from different generations of the same family (so, Son of the Shadows is going to be about Sorcha's children...). I plan on reading the last two since the first one has piqued my interest, and for those of you who end up reading all three and want more, Marillier has recently released a 4th Sevenwaters novel in 2008 called...
4. Heir to Sevenwaters (still in hardcover)
Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier - Marillier has made a pretty awesome name for herself in the realm of adult fantasy. I really enjoy historical fiction, and I especially those based in folklore (which is moving more into the fantasy realm, I suppose...), and this book by Marillier is actually based on an old Celtic legend. It follows the story of Sorcha, the youngest child, and only dauaghter, of the powerful Irish lord of Sevenwaters, who is well loved and favored by her 6 older brothers. They live relatively peaceful and content lives, but that changes when her father brings home a new wife, but looks can be decieving. She's young, beautiful, and by all appearances a devoted woman, but in reality she's a sorceress who casts a spell on Sorcha's 6 brothers that turns them into swans. Sorcha, fortunately, escapes the same fate, and with the help of the Lady of the Forest is given a task to help break the spell and return her brothers back to their human forms, under certain conditions - she's not allowed to speak until her task is completed and not to tell anyone what she hopes to achieve with her task. Sorcha's adventure is fraught with danger and obstacles, and she must try to break the spell, while at the same time trying to protect her heart from the Briton (enemies of the Irish) who 'kidnapps' her away. I thought this was a pretty good book, Marillier's use of language was excellent, but it was a bit slow to start and the course of Sorcha's thoughts have a tendency of slowing down the plot at some points. All in all, I'm glad I bought the book and plan on reading more of Marillier's books in the future.
**** 4 Stars
Sevenwaters Trilogy Includes:
1. Daughter of the Forest
2. Son of the Shadows
3. Child of the Prophecy
I reviewed this book as a stand alone, (1) because I've only read the first book and (2) because although this is a trilogy each book is about a different character from different generations of the same family (so, Son of the Shadows is going to be about Sorcha's children...). I plan on reading the last two since the first one has piqued my interest, and for those of you who end up reading all three and want more, Marillier has recently released a 4th Sevenwaters novel in 2008 called...
4. Heir to Sevenwaters (still in hardcover)
Monday, April 20, 2009
Just thought I'd get this one particular review out of the way, since I don't know how useful it will be in terms of opening your eyes to a new story
The Host by Stephenie Meyer - see what I mean? By now, Meyer is a household name in the genre and tons, if not all, of you have probably already heard of this title. Yet, I'm still sometimes amazed by the number of people I come across who are wary of reading The Host - I'm sure it's partially because the Twilight saga is such a unique thing and now enjoys a very distinct reputation, that some people are nervous picking up something by Meyer that has nothing to do with vampires. Meyer proclaims The Host to be "sci-fi for people who don't like sci-fi." I'll admit its very different from Twilight, but I really did love reading this, and have so far read it twice and I will be purchasing the paperback edition when it comes out this month (April 26). So here it is - the story opens up at some unnamed point in Earth's history, although it doesn't seem to be too far into the future, possibly present day, and nearly all humans inhabiting Earth have been implanted and taken over by an alien species called 'souls' - hence the title the Host. Wanderer, the protagonist, is a well-traveled soul, maybe the most traveled, having started on the mother planet, simply called the Origin, and having lived lives on at least 8 other planets (totalling to hundreds of years of life). She is placed into the body of a young lady named Melanie, part of a dying rebellion against the invasion of the souls. Melanie, however, refuses to fade away as normal humans due upon the insertion of a soul, a reflection of her strength and independence (a quality Bella haters will relish), so essentially two people with two distinct consciousnesses reside in one body. Interesting huh? Well, let's just say it's frustrating initially for both females. The story continues as Melanie tries to harbor secrets of some consequence from Wanderer, and Wanderer finds herself being saturated by Melanie's feelings for Jared, the man Melanie loves and so begins a journey, against her nature as a soul, to find him. The story starts kind of slow because initially the dialogue and the main rapport is between two people living in one body, but by the end I was sitting on the edge of my seat, completely sucked in. Like I wrote before, different from Twilight, but just as enjoyable and satisfying (maybe more so since it's a stand alone novel and resolution is reached at the end, so you're not dying for more - although that too is a great sensation). I loved the characters, and for me that can make or break a novel, so if I'm crying or laughing because of something they do or because of something that's happened to them, then I think the author has done something right (and this did happen for me with The Host). Read it!
***** 5 Stars (I know, I know.....don't smirk!)
The Host by Stephenie Meyer - see what I mean? By now, Meyer is a household name in the genre and tons, if not all, of you have probably already heard of this title. Yet, I'm still sometimes amazed by the number of people I come across who are wary of reading The Host - I'm sure it's partially because the Twilight saga is such a unique thing and now enjoys a very distinct reputation, that some people are nervous picking up something by Meyer that has nothing to do with vampires. Meyer proclaims The Host to be "sci-fi for people who don't like sci-fi." I'll admit its very different from Twilight, but I really did love reading this, and have so far read it twice and I will be purchasing the paperback edition when it comes out this month (April 26). So here it is - the story opens up at some unnamed point in Earth's history, although it doesn't seem to be too far into the future, possibly present day, and nearly all humans inhabiting Earth have been implanted and taken over by an alien species called 'souls' - hence the title the Host. Wanderer, the protagonist, is a well-traveled soul, maybe the most traveled, having started on the mother planet, simply called the Origin, and having lived lives on at least 8 other planets (totalling to hundreds of years of life). She is placed into the body of a young lady named Melanie, part of a dying rebellion against the invasion of the souls. Melanie, however, refuses to fade away as normal humans due upon the insertion of a soul, a reflection of her strength and independence (a quality Bella haters will relish), so essentially two people with two distinct consciousnesses reside in one body. Interesting huh? Well, let's just say it's frustrating initially for both females. The story continues as Melanie tries to harbor secrets of some consequence from Wanderer, and Wanderer finds herself being saturated by Melanie's feelings for Jared, the man Melanie loves and so begins a journey, against her nature as a soul, to find him. The story starts kind of slow because initially the dialogue and the main rapport is between two people living in one body, but by the end I was sitting on the edge of my seat, completely sucked in. Like I wrote before, different from Twilight, but just as enjoyable and satisfying (maybe more so since it's a stand alone novel and resolution is reached at the end, so you're not dying for more - although that too is a great sensation). I loved the characters, and for me that can make or break a novel, so if I'm crying or laughing because of something they do or because of something that's happened to them, then I think the author has done something right (and this did happen for me with The Host). Read it!
***** 5 Stars (I know, I know.....don't smirk!)
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