Rachel
A companion novel to Sorcery of Thorns.
Oh no! Thorn manner is holding everyone hostage. Why? How do they fix it?
This novel is a chance to find out what's next for Elizabeth, Nathaniel, and the inhabitants of Yhorn Manner. It also delves a little into the history of the house.
Overall this book was cute. Elizabeth felt Luke a different character altogether. But the moments with Silas were great. Honestly I'd like a few novels following him around through the centuries.
Full of YA tropes. Yet somehow the author makes this book both engaging and refreshing.
Heroic girl with a love of books is suddenly thrust into a new world of magic, mystery and political intrigue. Oh and did we mention her new companion is tall dark and handsome, rich, powerful, and the town's most eligible bachelor?
Will she be able to solve the mystery, save the girl AND capture the heart of Mr sexy?
DNF at 71% in Audiobook
I tried really hard to get into this book. There are so many glowing reviews, I kept pushing to find out what made this book special. At 71%, I still don't know what makes it special and I dread listening to any more.
Overall I can't see what makes this book any better than other Vietnam war novels. Is it the length? The character's descent into madness. Is the long, drawn out story meant to be a parallel to a long, drawn out war?
There were some good points to the book. It is immersive. The descriptions felt like I was there in the war. The horrors were accurately captured. You can tell the author did his research to make it authentic.
I'd like to know how it concludes, but I can't find it in me to devote another 6 hours to finishing this book. I already devoted nearly 14 hours to get this far. Aside from crossing it off my to-read list, there is nothing keeping me going.
This is the second time this year I've read a Fairy Tale themed book filled with obscure modern references. I guess it's an attempt to connect with the reader. It has an "Oh the Cleverness of me!" - Peter Pan vibe to it. And frankly it's annoying. Just as I was getting absorbed into the story, the author would insert a random modern reference which would take me completely out of the tale. My mind would wander to follow the reference instead of continuing on the with story. It's unfortunate because the premis of the story was really interesting. I would have loved to learn and explore more. The fact it is so short is really an injustice because the story has a lot more to offer. Am I glad I read it? Yes. Would I pick it up again? Maybe. But only to flip to a few pages.
What a masterpiece.
The depths of characters. The relationships. The descriptions. The mix of action and drama. The beating heart of Tara. The constant fight and struggle to survive. The true magnitude of how people respond to war, trauma, and the need to survive.
Scarlett O'Hara is a self centered, spoiled southern belle. She's oblivious to around her and cares only for herself. But that self centerness is what pushes her into survival mode. It keeps her and those around her going. She destroys many, but also is the key reason why others survive.
The writing swept me away to Confederate south. I was in the rooms with Scarlett, Rhett, Melanie, Mammie, Pa, and the rest. Even the characters who swept in and out of the story had their own struggles and individual characteristics and drive.
There was depth in this novel that I have rarely seen in others. This is a book that can be read time and again, even though you know the ending.
Absolutely captivating story of survival.
From the opening pages through to the end, White Fang was hard to put down. We're introduced to the harsh wilderness of the North. A world completely unforgiving where you either kill or be killed.
The novel is as harsh and brutal as the winter weather. From animal abuse, to dog fighting. This book can be hard for animal lovers. I myself had a difficult time with the abuse, however it offered a truly captivating glimpse into what a dog in that era may have experienced.
Despite the hardness, this is one I'd gladly read again. I simply couldn't put it down.
This is how you take a traditional fairy tale (Beauty and the Beast) and make if your own!!
Overall this is classic Juliet Marillier and one of her finer books. Caitrin is running from an abusive household and ends up at Whistling Tor, a place inhabited by the mysterious Anluan and his otherworldly companions.
There is mystery, friendships and a budding romance. Anluan is not a beast under a curse. He is a man afflicted with physical deformities from an illness. Caitrin carries her trauma from her previous household. The otherwordly characters have personalities and are truly fleshed out characters. The story is well thought out, well researched and well implemented.
My only critique was the rushed ending. It felt like the author was backed into a corner on how to resolve all of the plotlines and which took precedence. I wish there was at least an extra 50 pages towards the end that would provide a bit more meat for a solid, less rushed ending.
I listened to the Audiobook narration of this book. The narrator is a 5 star narrator. It's the format that was the problem.
This book desperately tries to be something profound and gets so caught up in doing something different that it loses the heart of the story. It's written almost like an early screenplay as if the goal is to make this be as easy as possible to adapt into film. Problem is, the story jumps around so much that there is no reason to adapt to a screenplay.
DNF at 25%. Sorry. I tried. I really did.
Unfortunately I think the audiobook narrator had a lot to do with my low rating. She read this like one would read a fairy tale to a young child. For a short book, that would have been fine. For this book it made it drag.
The pacing was also an issue. It was both exceptionally fast AND exceptionally slow. Each scene was incredibly short. I wanted more context or substance to a page. Just as I would get drawn in, the scene would end and the MC would be somewhere else. At the same time the pacing was crazy slow. Wandering around the castle and the grounds. Yes, seems like it was beautiful. The descriptions were lush and enchanting. But even reflecting on what I had read, it felt like so much was spent on scenery and that could have been condensed dramatically.
I have no real opinion on Rose and Thorn. They seemed ok as characters.
This may have been more enjoyable in an ebook format where one could read at their own pace and jump ahead at the highly descriptive areas.
DNF at Chapter 6 (Page 68)
I see this author praised time and again for fairy tales and retelling. With all the praise this one was getting, I thought it'd be worth trying.
There is some interesting aspects. The world and the the inclusion of domestic violence in a fairy tale. The idea of a bone dog and the blend of old magic.
So why the DNF? It felt incredibly slow and rushed at the same time. I felt like I never got to know the characters before they were put into a scenario. It felt a bit like tokens on a board game. The characters have a purpose but no real substance to them. I found myself putting down the book with no real inclination to pick it back up again. I wish that the writing was doubled in size. I wish that more pages were devoted towards their small kindom and introducing the family. I'd have liked to learn more about the oldest sister and have a small connection with her before she died. Plus the start of the bone dog was meant to draw the reader in, but instead it had the opposite affect. I just felt confused.
Update: bumping down a star. The more I think about the book, the more it infuriates me. And tempted to bump down to 2 stars. This book was a mess and her actions towards Liwei were very disappointing. He deserved better. Wenzhi was toxic. Actually they were all terrible for each other. She should have ended up with the sea realm prince. Or someone from a different realm altogether.
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What a wild ride.
I knew it would be hard to follow up Daughter of the Moon Goddess, but this mostly met my expectations.
First, it was great to journey back to the Celestial Kingdom, the Southern Sea and the rest of the immortal realm. It was nice to see familiar characters as well as meet a few new ones.
Now to unpack all the rest. (Apologies in advance for any misspellings)
The first 100 pages or so I wasn't sure I wanted to continue. Xingyin was making some foolish decisions and felt like a different character than the girl in book 1. The introduction of Houyi felt sloppy and rushed. And the introduction of Tao (was that even his name) felt completely unnecessary. The character was introduced as this important thief that even then Celestial Empress was aware of. Yet after his brief bit he fades into complete obscurity. The sole purpose was to bring the sister back into the writing.
Now the sister, what was the point of her introduction? To show that a mortal life is a good one? I thought she'd have a bigger part, like taking over for Liewi so that he and Xingyin could live a wonderful life together. Instead she's also a subtle background character that could have been removed entirely.
Xingyin and Leiwi's defiance of their celestial majesties. It was good to see these two together again defying the odds, but Xingyin's hesitancy for Leiwi felt lacking. Yes he broke her heart but I hoped that year between books would have led to some change.
But that made sense when her heart also belonged to another. Though I never liked Whenzi, he had a freedom to him that Leiwi did not. At least that's how the author portrays it. But in reality they are both trapped by the same issue. Either way, if Xingyin ended up with either man she would be a future empress. Which had me frustrated because Leiwi seemed like the better choice.
But the thing that stood out about everything was the stark difference of priorities for Leiwi and Whenzi. When it came down to it Leiwi put his duties and kindom first and Whenzi put Xingyin above all else. Still, I didn't like Whenzi after all he did to her in Book 1. Lying to her, emprisoning her. Yet her slow forgiveness of all of that.
The emotional rollercoaster of the love triangle was a lot and I was getting frustrated at Xingyin as she let her indecision reign.
But the Celestial Empress was wiser than we gave her credit for. Though I had hoped for a showdown between her and Xingyin where the empress says “Yes, you are worthy to take my place and marry my son.” Then all becomes clear as to why Xingyin was hesitant. But turns out it wasn't the empress at all. It was Xingyin's own indecision.
While the indecision and love triangle play centerfold, we also have the touching reuinion of Chang'e and Houyi. The relationship between father and daughter. And we find some semblance of peace for some characters.
Now to the main point of conflict. I did not like the big bag guy, General Wu. Not that you're supposed to, but the whole character arc itself was meh. It felt a bit like a Disney villian, whereas the conflict in book 1 was more on par with a Pixar tale where the main character must grow and learn a lesson.
Don't get me wrong, it was still good and the ending was.. an ending. It was sad and a fitting conclusion. But again, I felt a bit dissatisfied. As it progressed I thought “Really? Death? Eliminating the choice to pick at all?” That felt like a cheap way to end the conflict. I thought the elimination of one would lead the others to be closer. But in the end the pain persisted and we got a relatively good ending.
BUT did we get a good ending? Because yes they will have time in the mortal world together, but once the next immortal elixer is taken and the other ascends into the sky, isn't there the same issue where that character will once again take on the role of emperor and Xingyin will feel trapped in the empress role?
Overall I guess there was no way to win with either way. And I guess that' the point of story. That even life there are no winners. We just trod on through our decisions an the decisions of the world around us. Though I wish the two characters found their way back to one another, it would have been impossible after all that occurred.
Well there we go. At least a little something for this book. We had a bit more pacing, some familiarity with characters and a bit more drama. We see characters reach their breaking points and feel a bit of tension as we lead towards the conclusion.
Aaaaaaaaand then it was over. We started to get this buildup and finally some exciting redemptive pieces for our characters and then characters would fall asleep or we'd switch characters. It was a bit like the author didn't know how to tackle or was told the book was too long and chopped some interesting bits out. Even the ending was really lackluster. I guess another way to put it is that this was just so formulaic of a YA series. The uniqueness was the inclusion of the Good Folk, but even that tied up a little too neatly at the end. And the whole “MC goes off in a boat for some restoration” gave me Frodo Baggins vibes.
I hate that this review is so negative. Overall this book was pretty entertaining and I was eager to see what happened next. But as a series this was a dud. I'd classify it as “If you have a long car ride and need a audiobook series thats readily available, try this one” but not one I'd go out of my way to recommend.
IN other words... this series is pretty forgettable. Which is a shame because Juliet Marillier has many other wonderful books and stories. This just wasn't one of them.
Despite the slow pace of Book 1, I decided to continue. Mostly due to convenience of the audiobook and needing background noise for some mindless work.
Overall this was slightly better than Book 1, but still unfortunately slow. I grew bored and started to zone out during certain segments. I'd rewind the book and find I really didn't miss anything crucial. Towards the end we get a little built of drama but overall this series is pretty lackluster and forgettable.
Started with the audiobook. Do not recommend. Made some horrible, selfish, bitchy characters even worse. Specifically the MC and her sisters. They are absolutely unlikeable.
Switched to the ebook and it made it a little more tollerable. At least the voice in my head would be a little calmer. Still the MC and her family were entirely unlikeable. By the 50% mark I had to give up and start skimming. There was nothing likeable about this family, their views, and their attitudes towards each others.
Reading this book was like sucking on a lemon. And the rest of this series belongs on my skip list.
Phew! What a ride. I couldn't put this one down. As you can see I binged the entire thing in one day.
In this book, Pepper, Amelia and Cordelia all make a wish at the exact same time. It whisks them away to an alternate timeline where things are all sorts of messed up. Amelia is dating Garrick, Cordelia is dating Axel, and Pepper is marrying Rufus! Oh no.
In this book we get to play out what life would have been like if Pepper had chosen Rufus over Axel. Romantic dates and a bonding ceremony. Tense altercations between the mismatched pairs. Conflicting advice how to fix everything. Can true love survive an alternate timeline?
Pepper was being a bit stupid in this one, but the way Rufus is described, who can blame the confusion?
I knew it would be hard to beat the previous book. Even stepping into its shadow would be tough.
Overall this book felt more like a filler episode. The mystery was really obvious and I spent most of the book frustrated at how stupid everyone was being. After solving 12 murders, you'd think they'd be a little more savvy on things like this. Even Axel, it was very out of character for him to just overlook the obvious.
The one good thing was seeing some positive for Mint and Licky. They are fun characters, though I wish we saw them just a tad more.
If I ever get around to rereading the series, this book will be in the list of books to skip
Fun!
This book further expands the world with the inclusion of a Head Witch Order, led by the nefarious Lacy.
While there is fun Pepper and Axel time, this book gives us a chance to become more acquainted with Rufus and finally get to the truth of Pepper's feelings.
Overall a solid story that had me guessing. One of the top books in the series.
Another fun book in the series. Clever and creative. It was nice to have Pepper and Cordelia together at the final confrontation.
My only critique was the rushed ending and abrupt insertion of Rufus. The first mention of him really came out of left field and it was a bit disappointing that Axel didn't end up in the forest with them. He never would have left Pepper alone after they discovered the ladder and even if he did, no way he'd have his phone off or not answer.
Thus concludes the tale of Uhtred, son of Uhtred, Lord of Bebbanburg.
Once Uhted reclaimed Bebbanburg I wasn't sure where the story would go. It seemed like reclaiming his home would be a fitting conclusion, but little did I know there would be more to Uhtred's story.
In this novel, we meet an Aged Uhted in his final years of life. Much time is spent reflecting on and acknowledging just how many characters we lost over the course of this series. It was solemn and sad. Bernard Cornwell did an incredible job covering these emotions and I suspect he missed some of his old characters too. He also acknowledged the age gap between Uhtred and the newer characters and how it was finally time to put our hero to rest.
As with the other stories, the first half of the novel is spent recapping where things stand as well as setting up for a large battle towards the end. As this was the final novel, I was worried this might be the end for Uhtred. His final battle. And the one that sends him to Valhalla. But I was wrong to doubt Lord Uhtred.
Instead we have a fitting conclusion to the story of a man which spanned 13 books and a successful tv show. I will miss Uhtred's adventures but it's fun to imagine him in Valhalla with all of his friends once more.
After the incredible Book One, my hopes were high for this one. Unfortunately it was a bit of a letdown. This story was more confusing and harder to follow. The first two issues really dragged and I didn't see the importance of the datamining girl. Towards the end it picked up steam to be the same action packed, attention gripping story of Book One. There is a cliffhanger, but looks like the series might be on hiatus.
The artwork wa a commendable 5 stars.
Finally, we've reached the crossover with the Sweet Tea Witch series.
I wasn't a fan of books 1 & 2 in this series, but the tides are turning with book 3.
Instead of focusing on a mysterious death, this story focuses on an evil ghost, and a body buried in a basement. The story is more focused on solving a mystery, which flows better with Blissful's ghost hunting abilities.
Bliss and Roan's relationship is still poorly developed and a bit toxic. Bliss is downright rude to people and says it's her sarcasm. Sorry hun, but stop hiding behind your rudeness by calling it a joke.
Pepper and Axel brought some life and stability to the story. The bonding time of Pepper and Bliss was... erh no. They just met each other and talking about Axle's mating issue? Not something you drop on a stranger about your partner.
Roan had an interesting development. Explains a lot.
I wish there was more about the ultimate ghost in Roan's basement but makes sense that's for another reason book. Still, I liked the idea of Pepper and Axel teaming up to tackle together. Maybe there will be another crossover.
I'm not really a fan of Alice and Ruth. They feel like the stereotypical comic relief and don't add much to the story except facepalms.
I may actually check out more in this series, but only after finishing with the sweet tea witches
A good premise brought down by a dislikeable MC.
Blissful is a ghost hunter who helps ghosts transition. She carried a grudge over not being given her dad's old job. Yes, the field may be specialized but that's not how it works. Anita takes over the role and Blissful thinks it's because of her relationship with the boss. Ok maybe, or maybe she was more qualified than Blissful. Or maybe she understands the politics of a business better.
Blissful is sarcastic, which is supposed to be part of her charm. Instead it's irritating. She'll try to push people away with her sarcasm or always has to win. She often says the wrong thing because of her sarcastic temper. Gee maybe that's the reason you didn't get the job.
Why the cute B&B guy falls for her is a mystery. So far they seem to be bebhaving angry sarcasm battles and getting on each other's nerves. Yet somehow its inst love. Nope. They seem toxic for each other. Mostly because of Blissful.
That unfortunate thing is that this series has an interesting premise. Someone talking to ghosts, helping them transition. In this book we are trying to find the killer of Neal, a guy who was set to reveal the killer of 1970s ghost Susan, aka Blissful's ghost friend.
Solving the cold case with the help of ghosts could have been fun but Bllissful makes it hard to enjoy the ride.
The next book is supposed to be the crossover with the sweet tea watches. I'm hoping that's better. Then I can officially put this series to rest and go back to Magnolia Cove, happier place with much better characters.
This was rough. Blissful is a workaholic who will stop at nothing until she gets her old job back. Thing is, she thinks she deserves it because her dad had the job first. Uhh no this isn't royalty you gotta earn your job.
Blissful herself is rude and unlikeable. She treats people and ghosts horribly.. some reason the handsome b and b owner is instantly smitten with her. It's more instant love than twilight.
The town has potential but it all falls flat.
The premise of a secret society is interesting and I wish there was more about that.
I'll continue the next two books because the third is a crossover with the sweet tea witches. After that, I don't think I'll continue with Bratty Blissful.