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_aoibheann_'s review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
joannas's review against another edition
5.0
I’m... speechless. Like actually speechless. I don’t think I can clearly relay my thoughts in a super presentable manner, but I’m going to give my review regardless. I began this series seeking a sense of nostalgia for my tween-age years, as I had read the (first 3/4 books around 6 years ago ... now I’m old aka almost 20). I certainly found the feelings I was hoping for. This was a purely magical series that captivated me from the first few pages.
Each book was better than the last, which is a difficult feat to achieve!!!
Island of Dragons was no different. It was heart wrenching, emotional, humorous, action-packed, and a wonderful way to tie things together. The battle scenes had me in a chokehold and I physically could not stop myself from reading the latter half of the novel.
I will say I was heartbroken and disappointed about the fate of Alex’s left arm... his dominant hand. I can’t believe there wasn’t some magical solution for that and I was PISSED. same with Lani’s legs (I’m assuming she’s paralyzed). That was DARK for a YA book but I guess it goes to show that they’re strong and can endure anything, and it gives Alex an additional way of finding true confidence as head mage.
I loved Aaron’s character progression, especially throughout these last few books. I absolutely DESPISED him for the first three, because ... who wouldn’t. When he landed on the Island of Shipwrecks, which is what kickstarted his redemption arc, I was wary of the fact that I don’t enjoy redemption arcs of evil characters like that. But wow did Lisa McMann do a good job of convincing me to accept that Aaron is a changed man. His character was so well written that I found myself asking if he’d really sink back into his own ways after being offered the role of head mage of Artimé. I knew he wouldn’t give in deep down in my heart, because his inner emotional turmoil was so strong, and because well... Alex. I really loved their brother dynamic and renewed relationship. Often times authors don’t necessarily know how to write siblings, but I think McMann did a great job (though... I’m an only child so I guess I have no place to speak on it). Nevertheless, I really really enjoyed this book
I would have liked to see more Sky + Alex moments, as I think she was a little sidetracked (similarly to Meghan... before she was murdered—btw was that REALLY NECESSARY). Also justice for Mr. Appleblossom... he was not my favourite character by any means (that goes to Alex of course)... but his death hurt me.
Anyways I read a sneak peek of the other Unwanted series McMann is writing (the Quests?) and I am intrigued... but I also don’t know if I can invest that time into a series intended for young adults, this time without the nostalgia factor. I’ll be sure to let you know if I do decide to test the waters and give that series a try (though I should probably find series for my old age group LOL). Anyways, I HIGHLY recommend this whole series!!!! The quality only gets better from the first book, and all of the characters have really really super great arcs, and it’s very easy to see their growth throughout the seven books! ❤️ this series will definitely always have a special place in my heart.
Each book was better than the last, which is a difficult feat to achieve!!!
Island of Dragons was no different. It was heart wrenching, emotional, humorous, action-packed, and a wonderful way to tie things together. The battle scenes had me in a chokehold and I physically could not stop myself from reading the latter half of the novel.
I will say I was heartbroken and disappointed about the fate of Alex’s left arm... his dominant hand. I can’t believe there wasn’t some magical solution for that and I was PISSED. same with Lani’s legs (I’m assuming she’s paralyzed). That was DARK for a YA book but I guess it goes to show that they’re strong and can endure anything, and it gives Alex an additional way of finding true confidence as head mage.
I loved Aaron’s character progression, especially throughout these last few books. I absolutely DESPISED him for the first three, because ... who wouldn’t. When he landed on the Island of Shipwrecks, which is what kickstarted his redemption arc, I was wary of the fact that I don’t enjoy redemption arcs of evil characters like that. But wow did Lisa McMann do a good job of convincing me to accept that Aaron is a changed man. His character was so well written that I found myself asking if he’d really sink back into his own ways after being offered the role of head mage of Artimé. I knew he wouldn’t give in deep down in my heart, because his inner emotional turmoil was so strong, and because well... Alex. I really loved their brother dynamic and renewed relationship. Often times authors don’t necessarily know how to write siblings, but I think McMann did a great job (though... I’m an only child so I guess I have no place to speak on it). Nevertheless, I really really enjoyed this book
I would have liked to see more Sky + Alex moments, as I think she was a little sidetracked (similarly to Meghan... before she was murdered—btw was that REALLY NECESSARY). Also justice for Mr. Appleblossom... he was not my favourite character by any means (that goes to Alex of course)... but his death hurt me.
Anyways I read a sneak peek of the other Unwanted series McMann is writing (the Quests?) and I am intrigued... but I also don’t know if I can invest that time into a series intended for young adults, this time without the nostalgia factor. I’ll be sure to let you know if I do decide to test the waters and give that series a try (though I should probably find series for my old age group LOL). Anyways, I HIGHLY recommend this whole series!!!! The quality only gets better from the first book, and all of the characters have really really super great arcs, and it’s very easy to see their growth throughout the seven books! ❤️ this series will definitely always have a special place in my heart.
lydiastorytime's review against another edition
4.0
Exciting adventures in a magical world.
Highlights: found family, creative and artistic magic, fun lovable talking creatures, equally brave female warriors, boys with well rounded feelings, encourages questioning ones upbringing and government, exposes brainwashing, explores characters grief.
*the babies intuitive magic was great. This last battle brings together all of Arteme’s allies.
Down side: children put into adult roles and counted on as leaders. No one is queer. The children’s plans are often not well thought out and adults are mostly unhelpful. Children over 12 are expected to not need parenting. Lack of variety in spells.
Spoilers for sensitive minds.
Tw:
Physical violence: most lethal force in battle in the series, battle lasting 3 days with many deaths and wounded, death of beloved teacher and father figure, death of friend death of magical creature, death of magical black board, various wounds from swords, tar fire balls, and the usual spells, drowning, magical bloodless dismemberment of villain, loss paralyzed dominate arm, paralyzed from the waist down,
Emotional pain- grief of loved ones, loss of father figure, neglectful parents and the ramifications, children forced into adult roles and systemically neglected, character struggles with pressure and leadership ramifications beyond their control and ability given their age.
Other: physical and emotional fatigue of battle causing hopelessness.
Highlights: found family, creative and artistic magic, fun lovable talking creatures, equally brave female warriors, boys with well rounded feelings, encourages questioning ones upbringing and government, exposes brainwashing, explores characters grief.
*the babies intuitive magic was great. This last battle brings together all of Arteme’s allies.
Down side: children put into adult roles and counted on as leaders. No one is queer. The children’s plans are often not well thought out and adults are mostly unhelpful. Children over 12 are expected to not need parenting. Lack of variety in spells.
Spoilers for sensitive minds.
Tw:
Physical violence: most lethal force in battle in the series, battle lasting 3 days with many deaths and wounded, death of beloved teacher and father figure, death of friend death of magical creature, death of magical black board, various wounds from swords, tar fire balls, and the usual spells, drowning, magical bloodless dismemberment of villain, loss paralyzed dominate arm, paralyzed from the waist down,
Emotional pain- grief of loved ones, loss of father figure, neglectful parents and the ramifications, children forced into adult roles and systemically neglected, character struggles with pressure and leadership ramifications beyond their control and ability given their age.
Other: physical and emotional fatigue of battle causing hopelessness.
alyshadeshae's review
5.0
That feeling when you finish a series and just don't know what to do with your life? I'm there.
This entire series is fantastic and my absolute only complaint about this book is that the final battle is literally about 40% of the book. But at the same time, I'm okay with that because know what's going on all over. I'm so thrilled with Aaron's growth and actions!
This entire series is fantastic and my absolute only complaint about this book is that the final battle is literally about 40% of the book. But at the same time, I'm okay with that because know what's going on all over. I'm so thrilled with Aaron's growth and actions!
steckerlg's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
auroraleininger's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
fadingyoshi's review against another edition
4.0
Started this thinking nothing new was happening it just felt like they just went out to finish up helping everyone they promised really quickly. That changed abt half way through and it was a nice way to end things for them ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
amalies's review against another edition
5.0
This book really was the perfect end to a really great series. I read all through the 7 books one after another in the course of three weeks and I am so glad I found his series after all the books were out. Because of this, It took me a while in the book to realize just how much time had passed in the lives of the characters from the day of the purge in Quill in the first book, passing all the adventures until now. It was really quite something. The whole series did remind me of Harry Potter in the sense that they are always trying to fight something each book and there is an epic battle that finishes the series off. The character development of the Aaron and Alex Stowe is probably the main theme I will remember from these books. Yes, there are other strong characters, but what happens to these two boys is incredible, heart wrenching at times, but so real in regards to how siblings love/hate/are jealous of each other in real life. The surprises/non-surprises of this final book are very intriguing. I wish we could have learned more about how Mr. today set up the tube in various places. That is the only area that I wish was explored more in the entire series. I appreciate that these books don't just cover broken hearts from loss of loved ones but also show someone working through the grieving process, how they move on, how they continue when they are at their lowest point and the importance of shining good in your character and listening to those around you that care about you. Many books I read don't really touch on the aftermath of hardship and since that is the hardest part, I am glad to read something that did. Someday I hope to read these books again.
karielizabeth's review against another edition
4.0
I read this whole series to Cole this year. Finished just in time! We liked the series a lot.
sissiambre10's review against another edition
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
5.0