The Siren and the Sword

I've wanted to read this book for years, but because I've been such a poor reader for so long, it took me a while to finally buy it and read it. In fact, it was only when the new edition went on sale that I got myself a copy. I wish I'd read it much sooner, and I'm very much looking forward to reading the next book in the series. And I can promise that now that I'm reading regularly again, I won't wait another five years or so before I buy it.

I'm a big fan of fantasy in general, and Tan definitely does an excellent job of pulling you in and keeping you interested. Kyle's journey to figure out who he is in a world of magic that he didn't even know existed draws you along. The details are excellent, and you can tell she knows the Harvard campus and environs very well. You can also tell that she is not only fond of Tarot, but knows how to use them well, as the way Kyle learns them feels real and not cliched at all. As a huge tarot fan, I will say that bit especially pulled me in. I look forward to reading more about the cards in the next book, as I'm sure she has plenty up her sleeves regarding them.

Tan is a huge Harry Potter fan, and says so in her author's note at the end. If you can see JK Rowling's influence in many of her choices in this world, but she also makes it her own, showing us things she is obviously well-versed in and loves. Her characters do not feel take-offs of the Harry Potter characters in the least, nor does Veritas feel like Hogwarts-gone-college.

Her cast of characters are intriguing. Kyle, the affable main character and hero-to-be is sweet and interesting. Alex, his best friend, who seems a lazeabout, but actually gets Kyle through the initial phase of suddenly becoming a college magical student and helps him understand all the new things around him. Jess, his girlfriend, whom I hope to see more of in the next installment, who teaches him a great deal about magic, sex, and sex magic. And no, I'm not going into the others here, but suffice to say, she's got a great cast here, each of which feel like they have their own stories, and all of which I look forward to learning more about as the series continues.

Definitely recommended for Urban Fantasy fans, Harry Potter fans, and even Percy Jackson fans. It does have sexual situations, though, so if that's not for you, be warned. Overall, I loved it, and can't wait to read the next.