Review: A Dance With Dragons

A Dance With Dragons is book 5 in the Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin.

I'll start off by saying that I adore Martin's writing and this series in particular.  Because of this, I think any book in the Song of Ice and Fire series will get 5 stars from me. 

That said, I was a bit disappointed in this one.  I enjoyed reading it, but after years of waiting, I expected a little bit more.  It feels like not a whole lot happened to progress the plot.  And then there were new character viewpoints that I couldn't have cared less about, and wondered if we really needed new viewpoints at this point.  Especially since we didn't hear much about some characters. 

Part of me is annoyed at this whole series, but the bigger part of me still loves it and loves the writing and the world and all that comes with it.  I'd say the series peaked with A Storm of Swords, and has just gone downhill from there, but when it peaks so high, even going downhill it's still miles ahead of most fantasy I've read. 

A Dance with Dragons: A Song of Ice and Fire: Book Five

To Die For by Sandra Byrd

To Die For is the first book in the new Ladies in Waiting series by Sandra Byrd.  I don't usually read a lot of historical fiction.  I generally like to stick with the pretend stuff, like you'll find in speculative fiction.  But Sandra Byrd is one of my favorite authors, and I love her novels (I haven't read her YA books, so I can't comment on those, but I adore her adult novels).  Before I get to anything else, though, can I just take a minute to point out how gorgeous this cover is?  It's definitely pretty enough to frame.

I admit, I'm not the most well-versed person on the Tudor period.  An author probably could put whatever they wanted in there and I wouldn't know the difference.  So for the authenticity of the story, I really can't comment.  Except to say that according to Sandra Byrd's author note in the back of the book, she did a lot of research.  She didn't just start writing all willy nilly.

I enjoyed reading from the viewpoint of someone who wasn't so front and center in the Tudor court.  Sometimes a novel told in first person can really make me annoyed with the main character, and I think had the story been told from Anne Boleyn's point of view, that may have happened.  But Meg was such a likable character.  She was honest with herself and others, and was loyal, almost to a fault.  But she wasn't one of those characters that was too perfect either.  I was really rooting for her.

Reading from the point of view of someone who was good friends with and so close to Anne Boleyn definitely made Anne's character more sympathetic.  We're hearing the story from her closest friend instead of one of her many enemies.  I grew to really love Anne, and although I knew what was coming at the end (I do know some history), I was still very sad.  I might have cried a little.

To Die For takes a period of history that we are all familiar with to some degree, and makes the people real.  I felt like I connected with the characters in a way that I haven't been able to in the past with historical fiction.  Sandra Byrd is a Christian writer, and while there is religion in this book (which is to be expected for the time period as well), it's never preachy.  That's one thing I've really enjoyed about her books.  I've never felt preached to or lectured as with some Christian fiction.

This is a wonderful historical fiction novel and I can honestly say that I loved it.  I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in the series, which is due in 2012.  If you love historical fiction, the Tudor period, or just a really good story, get your hands on this book!  (Release date is August 9th)
Grade: A

Links:
Sandra Byrd's Website
On Amazon: To Die For: A Novel of Anne Boleyn


Disclosure: I received a review copy of To Die For from the publisher and the only thing I got for writing this review was the pleasure of reading the book. :)

The Unfinished Song: Taboo

There are some authors that haven't made it big for whatever reason, but are still extremely talented, and Tara Maya is one of them.  I'm not sure why a major publisher hasn't picked up her books, but they are really good, and I'm not very easy to please!

Taboo is the second novel in what looks to be quite a long series.  The two books I've read so far have been fairly short, but have left me really wanting more.  This one didn't end on quite as much of a cliffhanger as the first, but it's definitely not a satisfying, loose-end tying up ending. 

I love the world that Tara Maya has created here.  There are different regions, and each region seems to have their own speciality or magic.  It's a pretty complex world, and to try to go into explaining anything would take awhile, so instead I'll just say read the book, and you'll see.  The world-building is very unique, and is unlike anything I've read before.

The characters are written in such a way that you really root for them and want good things for them, but there are also times when you want to shake them and say "wake up!"  It can be a little frustrating at times.  Dindi seems to be the main character, and she's quite likable, but she's hardly the focal point of the story.  There's a lot going on here, and as such, you never get a chance to get bored.  If you're a fantasy fan, definitely give this series a try, starting with The Unfinished Song: Initiate.



Book Details

Title: The Unfinished Song: Taboo

Author: Tara Maya

Genre: fantasy

Why I Read It: review copy from the author, liked the first one

Grade: A (excellent)

Review: The Spirit Rebellion

Book Details

Title: The Spirit Rebellion (The Legend of Eli Monpress)

Author: Rachel Aaron

Genre: Fantasy

Page Count: 456

Publishing Info: Orbit, October 26, 2010

My Review

Why I read it: Second in a series

The Plot: I've got to start taking notes when I read, especially when it's taking me so long between reading and reviewing.  In this second book of the Eli Monpress series, Eli is still working on getting a higher bounty on his head.  We find out a little bit more about what motivates him, and there is a little more depth to the story, with some surprises and foreshadowing too.  The target this time is the Duke of Gaol's citadel, which has been advertised as thief proof.  This proves too much of a temptation for Eli, so of course he sets off to rob it.  And of course, things don't go exactly as planned.

The Characters: I really love the characters in this series.  Eli is a character that I can really root for, even if he is a bit over the top at times.  I really want these characters to succeed, except maybe Miranda in her plans to catch and arrest Eli.  That would take away a lot of the fun.  As the series progresses, it seems that we're digging a little deeper into the lives of the characters, which is good since the first was a little more plot driven.

The Setting: There's nothing too spectacular about the setting here.  It seems to be pretty standard fantasy stuff.  I do still like that everything has a spirit, which makes it so that wizards can communicate with anything.  Rachel Aaron really had a good idea there, and she utilizes it well.

A Sample of the Writing:

High in the forested hills where no one went, there stood a stone tower.  It was a practical tower, neither lovely nor soaring, but solid and squat at only two stories.  It's enormous blocks were hewn from the local stone, which was of an unappealing, muddy color that seemed to attract grime.  Seeing that, it was perhaps fortunate that the tower was overrun with black-green vines.  They wound themselves around the tower like thread on a spindle, knotting the wooden shutters closed and crumbling the mortar that held the bricks together, giving the place an air of disrepair and gloomy neglect, especially when it was dark and raining, as it was now.

 

Who Should Read This? Fantasy fans who are into adventure and fun, and aren't looking for anything especially deep or serious.

Final Thoughts: I'm really loving this series, and I think it's getting better and better.  It's just nice, easy reading with no extra junk that doesn't need to be there.  I'm looking forward to the third book, and will definitely keep following this author.

Grade: A

Cover Thoughts: If I thought the cover to the first book was misleading, this one is even more so.  When I saw it, I thought the book was going to be about Miranda, especially when the tagline reads "What she gets away with is madness".  The taglines on these books are really cheesy, and they don't even really go along with the series.  This book is still very much centered around Eli, although Miranda is still there, as well as the other supporting characters.

Review: The Legend of Vysallimore

Book Details

Title: The Legend of Vysallimore 
Author: Mike Hemingway
Genre: children's
Page Count: 72
Publishing Info: Authorhouse, August 6, 2010

My Review
Why I read it: received review copy
Review: This book is a little different than most of the books I review.  I don't usually do children's books, especially picture books.  I sat down with my boys to read this one, and I really think it needs to be read aloud.  It's basically in poetry form, and I'm not usually a fan of poetry, but the writing here was beautiful.  I have to admit, my boys wandered off to play about halfway through, but I still sat there, reading it aloud to myself.  There was something magical about this tale, and I read to the end with a lump in my throat.  I've never found myself emotionally invested in a children's book.
There are illustrations, and that helped for awhile to keep my kids interested, but it's really not a picture book--it's more of an epic tale.  It's a tale about family love, honor, and doing what must be done, even when it's hard.
Here's a small taste of the book:

Now Elgrid, please embrace your kin,

Yes, hold your children close,

And open up your heart to them.

And say what means the most.

And ask them of their hopes and dreams,

And ask what makes them cry.

And say how much you love them,

And why that love won't die.

And listen to the little things,

Hear what they want to say.

To take this time is how to find

The power you seek today. 

I really loved this one, and it'll be one that I read again and again when I'm in the mood for a beautiful, poetic tale.  You can find this book at Amazon and Authorhouse.

Grade: A
Cover Thoughts: This cover is by the same artist as the pictures inside.  It's not the best artwork I've ever seen, but it works for this story.  

Review: Inside Out

Book Details

Title: Inside Out (Harlequin Teen)
Author: Maria Snyder
Genre: YA Dystopia
Page Count: 320
Publishing Info: Harlequin, April 1, 2010

My Review
Why I read it: Dystopia challenge, had 2nd book on my e-reader for review
The Plot: Trella is a scrub--she's one of thousands of people who live and work on the lower levels of what the reader can only assume is a giant building.  The people who live in the upper levels seem to have it all.  But one day Trella is introduced to a prophet who says he has evidence for "Outside".  Even though Trella doesn't believe him, she sets out to help him find his evidence, if only to prove to her best friend that Outside doesn't exist.  That's when it gets interesting.  Without meaning to, Trella starts a rebellion.
The Characters: I liked Trella.  There were times when it was a bit frustrating as a reader because someone would have information about Trella, things she didn't even know herself, but she never wanted to hear them.  That bit of annoyance aside, Trella was a really strong, smart girl, which is always nice to see in young adult books.  The characterization was done very well in Inside Out, and you can't help but care for these characters.
The Setting: Absolutely fabulous setting.  So much of it is mysterious.  We don't really know where these characters are.  We only know they are in some type of structure that has levels.  We have no idea what it's like outside of the structure, and even though most of the characters don't even believe there is an outside, we, as readers take our suppositions into the story with us, and assume that Earth is outside--but we don't know what state the Earth is in.  It adds some psychological suspense to the story.
Who Should Read This? Fans of dystopia should really like this one. 
Final Thoughts: I tried another book by Maria Snyder one time (Storm Glass, I think it was) and didn't really care for the writing, so I gave up on it.  I'm glad I had the opportunity to give this author another try because the writing was excellent and I really enjoyed this book.  I stayed up really late to finish it, and as a mother of young kids that's something I rarely do.  It was so good that I went on to read the second one immediately.
Grade: A
Cover Thoughts: The cover is okay, although I think it could have been a little more interesting.  It does seem to be fairly eye-catching.

Review: Otherworlds: Fantasy Art

Book Details

Title: OtherWorlds: How to Imagine, Paint and Create Epic Scenes of Fantasy 
Author: Tom Kidd
Genre: How-to 
Page Count: 191
Publishing Info: Impact, November 8, 2010

My Review
Why I read it: Review copy from the publisher
About the book: With OtherWorlds,you will learn to draw and paint fantasy scenery. Also disc over how to bring forth ideas more quickly, and communicate a sense of place that evokes a range of emotions, especially the thrill of taking an exotic journey to explore the unknown. Enjoy Tom Kidd's lively and personal step-by-step instruction that includes information on materials, observing nature, drawing, form, color, creating special effects and more. You will learn to create scenes so vast they take your breath away with exquisite skies and aircraft, rugged terrain, glittering cites, spectacular rock formations, stormy seas, magnificent forests and more. (from Goodreads)
Who Should Read This? Artists, people who would like to be artists, people who like art, especially fantasy art.
Final Thoughts: I really love fantasy art, and this book is just full of beautiful artwork.  Not only that, but it tells you how to create your own beautiful artwork.  There are some great tips to techniques that an advanced artist might already know, but someone like me who is more on the beginner side will find extremely helpful.  Each section has a materials list, a step by step guide for drawing a scene (breaking it down into smaller parts of instruction), and of course, the finished picture.  I would enjoy this book even if it only had the amazing pictures to look at, but it's nice that there's so much more here.
Grade: A
Cover Thoughts: I love the picture on the cover here.  It gives you a small taste of what's inside.

Unearthly Review

Book Details

Title: Unearthly
Author: Cynthia Hand
Genre: YA Paranormal
Page Count: 448
Publishing Info: HarperTeen, January 4, 2011

My Review
Why I read it: netgalley review copy
The Plot: This is a really refreshing change from other YA paranormals I've read.  There's still a girl who finds out she has paranormal powers, but as the story opens, she already knows she has them.  No mysterious hot boy has to give her the news.  Does that mean this book is without a mysterious hot boy?  Of course not--that'd be asking a little too much, I think.  Clara, our main character is an angel-blood.  She has recurring dreams about the previously mentioned boy, a forest fire, and that she needs to save him.  Her mother explains to her (her mother is also an angel) that this dream is her purpose.  So, as details of the dream reveal themselves, they figure out the boy is in Wyoming and move their little family (she also has a brother who is an angel) there.  There she begins high school life, trying to fit in, meeting the boy from her dreams, a couple of good friends, and another boy, Tucker, who shows her the beauties of Wyoming (they're in Jackson Hole).  So, yes, another thing that would be too much to ask would be no love triangle.  We can't have everything.  This one is different though, and you'll just have to take my word for it and read it to see why. 
The Characters: Clara is actually really likable.  She's not bland and boring, all the while attracting the eye of every boy in the story.  She just seems to be a fairly normal girl who happens to be an angel.  But the real draw, for me, was the love interest.  Normally when I read YA paranormals, the minute the love interest is introduced (and throughout the story) I think the guy is such a tool.  Only attractive in that the author is telling me so, and not in anything I read in the story.  But this time, what's left over of my teenager heart was really crushing on Tucker.  Oh how I would have loved an attractive cowboy to show me around beautiful country.  Cynthia Hand really does it right here.  I'm finally reading a love interest that I can root for.
The Setting: I've already mentioned that most of the story takes place in Jackson, Wyoming.  The author does a wonderful job of describing the beauty of the place and making the reader want to be there.  I've never actually been there, so I can't say how accurate it is, but if it is anything like how it is in the book, I want to live there.
Who Should Read This? Every fan of YA, especially those who are burned out on the crap (yes, I said crap) that's out there right now. 
Final Thoughts: Sometimes you want to read a book that doesn't require a lot of thought, and just sweeps you away in the adventure of the story.  This is one of those books.  I was charmed the whole way through the novel, and I absolutely adored it.  It seems like this has to have a sequel, and I really hope it does.  I want to read more by this talented author!
Grade: A
Cover Thoughts: The cover is pretty, but it's a little too pretty for the story.  Clara goes hiking, rafting, fishing, flying--she's a girl who seems to love adventure and the outdoors, not an untouchable pretty girl, which is what this picture looks like to me.  Still, it could be worse.  I can kind of see what they were trying to do here with this cover.

 

Double Cross

Book Details:
Genre: urban fantasy
Page Count: 336
Publication Date: Sept. 28, 2010
Why I read it: book 2 in a trilogy
Grade: A

The plot:
Justine Jones has lived her life as a fearful hypochondriac until she's lured into the web of a mysterious mastermind named Packard. He gifts her with extraordinary mental powers-dooming her to fight Midcity's shadowy war on paranormal crime in order to find the peace she so desperately craves.

But now, serial killers with unheard-of skills are terrorizing the most powerful beings in Midcity, including mastermind Packard - and his oldest friend and worst enemy, Midcity's new mayor, who has the ability to bend matter itself to his will.

As the body count grows, Justine faces a crisis of conscience as she tests the limits of her new powers and faces an impossible choice between two flawed but brilliant men . . . one on a journey of redemption, and the other descending into a pit of moral depravity.

My review:
You know how sometimes you read the first book in a series, and you really like it, but then you get book 2 in your hands and you're afraid it won't be as good, so you put off reading it? I did that a little bit with Double Cross. Lately urban fantasy series have been disappointing me. But I shouldn't have worried about this one. In fact, I would say that Double Cross is better than Mind Games. Which is good--authors should improve with each book. But if Carolyn Crane gets any better, I'm afraid I might have a heart attack while reading the next book. Or a vein star episode. Like my head might seriously explode.

The biggest problem with this book was that it ended. It was like I was on this really awesome ride with lots of twists and turns, and the ride got really intense, and I started getting worried, like WHAT THE HECK IS HAPPENING WITH THIS RIDE AND WHAT'S COMING NEXT? And then the ride comes to a sudden stop. And I know there's more ride, but I can't go on it right now. Logically, I feel like it was as good a place as any to end this part of the story, unless she was going to wrap up the whole story right now (but since it's a trilogy, that wasn't happening), it's just that I want to find out what happens right this minute.

So, I really like Justine. I like that she's conflicted, and that there are no easy answers for her. I even kind of like this love triangle, even though I normally hate love triangles. Both Packard and Otto are so horribly screwed up (as is Justine), but they've also got very attractive things about them. And maybe what I like about them is that they don't have everything going for them. Just about everyone in this book is flawed in some way, some a lot more than others, but the world somehow seems to stay believable. And I've grown to really care about some of these characters--maybe a little too much, judging by my reaction to the ending.

Double Cross has been enough to renew my faith in the urban fantasy genre. Before this I had gotten very burned out, and it seemed like there was nothing new there to find. This is different. It's emotional, heart-pounding, gray area all over the place wonderful. I would highly recommend this one! Any book that leaves you with an intense emotional reaction has to be doing something right. I'll leave you with what I facebooked right after I finished it:

Just finished a book that I want to punch in the face. Not because it was bad. It was excellent, but it's book two of a trilogy, and it was very cruel of the author to end it where she did.

Clockwork Angel

Book Details:
Genre: YA Fantasy
Page Count: 496
Publication Date: Aug. 31, 2010
Why I read it: ARC Tour
Grade: A

Cover thoughts:
The cover is pretty cool. It looks kind of steampunky. I think for the most part it correlates to the story pretty well.

About the author: Cassandra Clare is the author of the Mortal Instruments series. You can visit her website here.

The plot:
Tessa travels to London to live with her brother, but upon arrival, two sisters, who are part of a secret organization, are there to pick her up instead. They kidnap her, and force her to use a power she didn't know she had, which is transforming into another person. She escapes with the help of Will, who is a Shadowhunter (warriors who fight demons). She joins with the Shadowhunters searching for her brother, and trying to find out more about the secret organization, and who is behind it all. It's a very interesting start to a new series--the only downside is the insane cliffhanger. Why does every author do this now?

Characters:
I adored Tessa. She's a strong character, and she's also very witty. The best part about her is that she loves to read. Who doesn't love book characters that share our passion for reading? The other characters are well fleshed out, and for the most part are pretty likable, except for the bad guys, who aren't supposed to be. :) Will was kind of a jerk, and it seems as if there's something behind it all, but we never find out why. We don't really know his background at all, but I assume that's something that comes out in other books.

Setting:
The setting here was wonderful. It felt very dark and mysterious, and went along with the story quite nicely. Clare always does a good job with world-building.

Notable quotes:
"One must always be careful of books," said Tessa, "and what is inside them, for words have the power to change us."
"Only the very weak-minded refuse to be influenced by literature and poetry."

Read this if you're in the mood for: A fast moving plot with likable characters. If you like Clare's other books, you'll like this one--she just keeps getting better.

Continue or part ways? I'll keep on reading this series, for sure.

Priceless

Book Details:
Genre: Christian Fiction
Page Count: 275
Publication Date: June 1, 2010
Why I read it: Review copy from author
Grade: A

Cover thoughts: The cover on this one is absolutely gorgeous. Seeing a picture of it doesn't do it justice. I think this may actually be my favorite cover on any book I've ever read.

About the author: Tom Davis is the president of Children's Hopechest. He is also a tireless advocate for orphans, those living with HIV/AIDS, and just about anyone who is suffering. He is an all around great guy, and you can see the love of Jesus shine through him. Makes it hard to write an unbiased review of his books, but I'll try.

The plot: Stuart Daniels is a photojournalist who is visiting Russia on assignment for his job. While there, he is persuaded by a friend to help two young girls who are caught up in the sex slave industry. From there things snowball until he finds himself right in the middle of it all, helping a group who is working to free as many girls as possible from the nightmare they are living in.

Characters: I liked Stuart. He seemed not to be the "perfect" Christian man, as is sometimes portrayed in Christian fiction. He was flawed, he had doubts, he wanted to go home and get out of the mess he found himself in (who wouldn't?), but he was also admirable. He knew that someone had to help these girls, and it might as well be him. Stuart is really the only character we get to know, besides Marina, whose story we get in bits and pieces throughout the book. Marina's story is heartbreaking, and it really makes you want to take action against the sex slave industry.

Setting: I've never been to Russia, but I know Tom Davis has been there many times, so there's no reason for me to believe his portrayal isn't authentic. I could really feel Russia come alive through the writing. I could feel the cold in the air, see the buildings and the people--it was very well done.

Notable quotes:
"My name is Marina, and this is my story. And it is also the story of my sisters, and many other girls in this world who are bound in slavery. This is for them."

Read this if you're in the mood for: something that will break your heart and make you want to do something (which I think is the whole point of the book). The good thing is that there are resources in the back of the book if you (like me) are compelled to take action and get involved.

Continue or part ways? I know this is the second "novel on the edge of the world" book, and unfortunately I haven't had an opportunity to read the first (Scared) yet. I've read a couple of other non-fiction books by Tom Davis, and I will continue to read his books as long as he is writing them.

Want your own copy? You can find this book at Amazon, Christianbook or Barnes and Noble.

Through Thick and Thin - reviewed by Kaitlyn

Title: Through Thick and Thin
Author:Sandra Byrd
Genre: Young Adult Christian Fiction
Page Count:220
Why I read it: I received a review copy from the author
Grade:A

Synopsis:
Savvy Smith, 15, sees her chance to write a full column in the paper, making her name and making her way in her new hometown near London, England. But the choices she faces when given the chance to choose between friends, family, and fame may turn her dream into a nightmare.
London Confidential is a new series where British fashion, friendships, and guys collide, and an all-American girl learns to love life and live out her faith.

Kaitlyn's review:
I thought that this book was very interesting, I like how the main character is not obnoxious and weird. I also feel that I can actually learn something from this book instead of it just being meaningless and without a moral. There were some things that I liked about this book that I liked from the first book, like how the author puts things into detail. I also have learned more things about London.

I could tell that the author planned out the story really well. I liked the writing style that the author used. The author made the story interesting and worthwhile. I had a lot of fun reading this book.

At some parts I felt bad for the character, how she would never get her spotlight and I was waiting for her to get some type of spotlight so she could make some friends but I realized that I just had to be patient.

I liked the way the author ended it even though it would have been an extremely hard choice for me. But I thought that the author made it so it was a good choice and it could inspire other people to make choices like this. I think that I definitely could learn a thing or two from this book.

I would suggest this book to anyone who likes young adult fiction who is willing to learn and to make wise choices in life. If you are the kind of person who likes to read about an average teens life, good choices, fitting in, and even just fixing all your problems; then this is a good book for you.

Tyger Tyger

Title: Tyger Tyger
Author: Kersten Hamilton
Genre: YA Fantasy
Page Count: 320
Why I read it: review copy from Netgalley
Grade: A
Publication Date: November 15, 2010

Synopsis:
Teagan Wylltson's best friend, Abby, dreams that horrifying creatures--goblins, shape-shifters, and beings of unearthly beauty but terrible cruelty--are hunting Teagan. Abby is always coming up with crazy stuff, though, so Teagan isn't worried. Her life isn't in danger. In fact, it's perfect. She's on track for a college scholarship. She has a great job. She's focused on school, work, and her future. No boys, no heartaches, no problems.

Until Finn Mac Cumhaill arrives. Finn's a bit on the unearthly beautiful side himself. He has a killer accent and a knee-weakening smile. And either he's crazy or he's been haunting Abby's dreams, because he's talking about goblins, too . . . and about being The Mac Cumhaill, born to fight all goblin-kind. Finn knows a thing or two about fighting. Which is a very good thing, because this time, Abby's right. The goblins are coming.

My review:
I was kind of surprised just how much I loved this book. The author has a great writing style, and I enjoyed every setting and every bit of the story. When I thought it was going to be about a girl who worked at a zoo, I was interested in that. When I thought it was going to be about a girl whose male cousin comes to live with them, I was interested in that. But then the story took off to unexpected places, and I loved every minute of it.

What's kind of weird is that even though t...more I was kind of surprised just how much I loved this book. The author has a great writing style, and I enjoyed every setting and every bit of the story. When I thought it was going to be about a girl who worked at a zoo, I was interested in that. When I thought it was going to be about a girl whose male cousin comes to live with them, I was interested in that. But then the story took off to unexpected places, and I loved every minute of it.

What's kind of weird is that even though this story doesn't take place in Ireland at all, it made me love Ireland even more than I already did. It made me want to look up the stories and legends. And it really made me want to visit Ireland.

The characters were wonderful--I loved Teagan, who was such a realistic, strong character. The supporting characters, the world building, and the mythology in Tyger Tyger were all excellent, and I would highly recommend putting this book on your wishlist. I can't wait for more in the series!

Silksinger

Title: Silksinger
Author: Laini Taylor
Genre: YA Fantasy
Page Count: 445
Why I read it: 2nd in series
Grade: A

Synopsis:
Whisper Silksinger is the last of the secret guardians of the Azazel, one of the powerful Djinn who dreamed the world into being. Relentlessly pursued by bloodthirsty devils, she flees to the city of Nazneen to restore the Azazel to his temple. At the same time, Hirik Mothmage is also on a secret quest, to find the Azazel and restore his disgraced clan’s ancient honor.

And behind them all flies Magpie Windwitch, first champion of the new age of faeries, desperate to rescue Whisper and the Azazel alike before they fall in the clutches of a sinister hidden enemy.

My review:
I think I have found a new favorite author. There is just something about this world that captivates me, and I find myself reading slower so that I can make the book last longer. This book (and the previous one) should be read by every fantasy lover. I'll even go so far as to say they should be read by every book lover. I'll never understand how certain YA books (I won't mention any titles here) get so darn popular, and gems like this don't get the attention they deserve.

In Dream...more I think I have found a new favorite author. There is just something about this world that captivates me, and I find myself reading slower so that I can make the book last longer. This book (and the previous one) should be read by every fantasy lover. I'll even go so far as to say they should be read by every book lover. I'll never understand how certain YA books (I won't mention any titles here) get so darn popular, and gems like this don't get the attention they deserve.

In Dreamdark, Laini Taylor keeps up the fantastic characterization, the adventure--all the good stuff from the first book. We meet some great new characters, although I didn't like Whisper as well as Magpie (who is one of my favorite literary characters ever), but she was definitely an interesting character. There was also some great backstory, and although the surprise twist in this one didn't surprise me, it was still good.

Once again, I have to mention the artwork. It really brings the story to life. I would love to see a graphic novel made of this series, because the artwork would be incredible. I really can't wait to read more of this series, and I hope the next one isn't too long coming. I'll be reading everything this author writes!

Silver Borne

Title: Silver Borne
Author: Patricia Briggs
Genre: Paranormal
Page Count: 342
Why I read it: 5th in a series
Grade: A

Synopsis:
When mechanic and shapeshifter Mercy Thompson attempts to return a powerful Fae book she'd previously borrowed in an act of desperation, she finds the bookstore locked up and closed down. It seems the book contains secret knowledge-and the Fae will do just about anything to keep it out of the wrong hands. And if that doesn't take enough of Mercy's attention, her friend Samuel is struggling with his wolf side-leaving Mercy to cover for him, lest his own father declare Sam's life forfeit. All in all, Mercy has had better days. And if she isn't careful, she might not have many more to live...

My review:
After not loving the previous book in the series (although I still liked it), I'm happy to say that I'm fully back on board with Mercy. This was a great book that left me feeling so many different emotions. I'll admit, at the beginning of the book I wondered if Mercy's story had been told, and if it was just being dragged out now, but reading this book changed my mind, because I love these characters and I want more of them.

Up until this book, I haven't been feeling the Mercy and Adam love. I'm not sure why, because I like both characters a lot, but I didn't like them together. Now they're one of my favorite literary couples. What a difference a book makes! I love the characters Patricia Briggs writes--she has a way of making you care about them, and boy did I feel really sad a lot of the time while reading, because the characters were so sad.

I really love this series, and would highly recommend it!

The Gardener

Title: The Gardener
Author: S.A. Bodeen
Genre: YA Science Fiction
Page Count: 232
Why I read it: ARC tour
Grade: A
Publication Date: May 25, 2010

Synopsis:
Mason has never known his father, but longs to. All he has of him is a DVD of a man whose face is never seen, reading a children’s book. One day, on a whim, he plays the DVD for a group of comatose teens at the nursing home where his mother works. One of them, a beautiful girl, responds. Mason learns she is part of a horrible experiment intended to render teenagers into autotrophs—genetically engineered, self-sustaining life-forms who don’t need food or water to survive. And before he knows it, Mason is on the run with the girl, and wanted, dead or alive, by the mysterious mastermind of this gruesome plan, who is simply called the Gardener.

My review:
This is the kind of YA that I really like, and should probably stick to. It's the kind that brings up so many questions and morality issues, and it really makes you stop and think. Or at least, you'll take time to think about things after you're done, because you definitely won't want to stop reading this one. It's a page turner for sure.

My one complaint on this book was that it was way too short. I wanted more story, and felt like we were just getting started. There is a lot more story to tell here. It was hard to get a great feel for the characters, mostly because it's told in first person narration, so we only ever get to know what Mason is thinking, and it's really the other characters who are the most interesting, and who have the most to tell us. I would have like to see this story in third person narrative, told from different perspectives. But I guess no book is perfect. It would be nice to read more books set in this world, but it's unclear if this is a start of a series.

I would highly recommend this one, and will be looking for more by this author.

A Little Wanting Song

Title: A Little Wanting Song
Author: Cath Crowley
Genre: YA
Page Count: 263
Why I read it: ARC Tour
Grade: A
Publication date is June 8, 2010

Synopsis:
CHARLIE DUSKIN loves music, and she knows she's good at it. But she only sings when she's alone, on the moonlit porch or in the back room at Old Gus's Secondhand Record and CD Store. Charlie's mom and grandmother have both died, and this summer she's visiting her grandpa in the country, surrounded by ghosts and grieving family, and serving burgers to the local kids at the milk bar. She's got her iPod, her guitar, and all her recording equipment, but she wants more: A friend. A dad who notices her. The chance to show Dave Robbie that she's not entirely unspectacular.
ROSE BUTLER lives next door to Charlie's grandfather and spends her days watching cars pass on the freeway and hanging out with her troublemaker boyfriend. She loves Luke but can't wait to leave their small country town. And she's figured out a way: she's won a scholarship to a science school in the city, and now she has to convince her parents to let her go. This is where Charlie comes in. Charlie, who lives in the city, and whom Rose has ignored for years. Charlie, who just might be Rose's ticket out.
Told in alternating voices and filled with music, friendship, and romance, Charlie and Rose's "little wanting song" is about the kind of longing that begins as a heavy ache but ultimately makes us feel hopeful and wonderfully alive.

My review:
This is one of those sweet novels that when I read the last page I just want more. This was not a fast-paced novel. There really wasn't any action, and there wasn't a lot going on either. It was more of an internal story--a story about two girls realizing who they are and who they can be.

I really liked Charlie from the beginning. She was a great character. Rose took awhile to grow on me. I felt like she was selfish and snotty, but in the end I liked her. In fact, I liked all the characters in one way or another.

There were times I thought the writing might be a little too flowery for me. Things like the sunset being like a cello playing. I think in real life if someone talked to me like that, I would think they were maybe a bit pretentious, if I'm being honest. But it works for this story, and it didn't really bother me.

I would recommend this to fans of YA. I liked it a lot better than I thought I would.

Lioness Rampant

Title: Lioness Rampant
Author: Tamora Pierce
Genre: Ya Fantasy
Page Count: 384
Why I read it: 4th in a series
Grade: A

Synopsis:
At last, Alanna of Trebond has become the first female knight errant in Tortall. She sets out on an impossible quest to find the Dominion Jewel, a legendary gem that, in the right hands, has limitless power for good. But while she searches for the one thing that can save her war-torn country, her nemesis returns from the dead and begins to wreak havoc. Only Alanna has the power to prevent Tortall's utter destruction...

My review:
This was a fantastic end to the Song of the Lioness series.  It was longer than the others, so Tamora Pierce was able to give more details, and not skip large chunks of time like in the other books.  It had court intrigue that I loved, and the action never stopped.

I also just adore the characters in this series.  Alanna grew so much, and I admit, I cried at the ending.  It was good and I really loved it.  The secondary characters are good, although the one small downside for this one was that I just wasn't feeling the relationship between Alanna and Liam.  He grew on me as a character, but sometimes I feel like Alanna really doesn't have to have a relationship with every man she comes in contact with.  (That doesn't really happen, though)

I would highly recommend this series to fantasy lovers.  Especially young ones.  All but this last book are fairly short and very quick reads.  I will definitely read more by this author.

Perfect Chemistry

Title: Perfect Chemistry
Author: Simone Elkeles
Genre: YA
Page Count: 357
Why I read it: heard it was good
Grade: A

Synopsis:
When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

My review:
I really didn't expect to like this one very much.  In fact, even after checking it out from the library, I almost didn't read it.  I mean, I'm a 30 year old woman, and this book is about two teenagers falling in love.  But I'd heard the writing is good, so I was willing to give it a try.  I'm so glad I did.  Simone Elkeles is one awesome writer.

You know how sometimes when you read a book, the dialogue just feels stilted and not true to life?  I've found that in a lot of books, and, as silly as it sounds, it reminds me that I'm reading a book.  Well, in Perfect Chemistry, the dialogue was flawless.  I never once thought, "nobody says that kind of thing".  I was just caught up in the story.

I absolutely fell in love with these characters and their story.  I really enjoyed going back and forth between the perspectives of Brittany and Alex.  It definitely enriched the story.  I loved the different cultures they came from, and felt like Simone Elkeles did an excellent job of writing both.     

I highly recommend this one.  There's swearing, and some of the characters treat sex very casually, so I wouldn't recommend it to younger teens, but to anyone else, it's a great read!  I will definitely be reading the next book in the series, Rules of Attraction.

Speak

Title: Speak
Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Genre: YA Fiction
Page Count: 198
Why I read it: sounded good
Grade: A

Synopsis:
After Melinda goes through a traumatic and violent incident at a summer party, she calls the cops and becomes a social outcast. Her freshman year is a disaster. As time passes, she stops talking--except through her paintings in art class. Her healing process has just begun when her perpetrator attacks again. Only this time, she doesn't keep silent. 


My review:
When I checked this book out from the library, I honestly wasn't expecting a whole lot.  But this is one of those books that really brought out the emotion in me.  No, I can't relate to the main character.  My life hasn't been perfect, but I certainly never went through the things she went through.

And although I didn't really find Melinda likable, I'm fairly sure I wasn't supposed to.  Even so, I felt like the author did an incredible job writing this character.  The secondary characters were a little one-dimensional at times, but I think that too was purposeful on the part of the author.  I really felt like I was seeing the way things were through the eyes of a high school freshman.  Not necessarily any of the kids I knew when I was in high school, but I'm certain there were kids out there who felt like Melinda did.

I would highly recommend this to fans of YA lit, especially girls, and more especially young girls.  In fact, I'm having my daughter read it.  It's not a happy book, and at times it's hard to read, but I think it's a good one for young girls to read.  The only note of warning is that I read the 10th Anniversary Edition, and there was a short part at the beginning with little bits of what readers had wrote to the author, and it gave a little bit of a spoiler.  Probably anyone who has read reviews of this one already knew what was in the spoiler, but I didn't, and I'm not sure if it would have been more impactful had I not known what exactly caused Melinda to withdraw and become silent.