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elfbread's review against another edition
4.0
This was a five star for me until the last 10% when the pacing went to hell. Man, it was so good up until that point.
cmitchell2781's review against another edition
4.0
Good read
I don't know what to say about this book. It was good, and I enjoyed reading it, but I'm not rushing to read the next one. The book felt neatly finished, but also open ended? Like, theres still plenty left of the story to be told but I would be satisfied not reading it. I enjoyed the characters, and really appreciated the likeness Ceren was given to Salandrin, which helped emphasize his villain like personality. The dichotomy between Ceren and Talin was glaring, and brought together the differences between Varenians and the people of new castle. It really was a good book, and I'm glad I decided to finish it, and would recommend it to others.
I don't know what to say about this book. It was good, and I enjoyed reading it, but I'm not rushing to read the next one. The book felt neatly finished, but also open ended? Like, theres still plenty left of the story to be told but I would be satisfied not reading it. I enjoyed the characters, and really appreciated the likeness Ceren was given to Salandrin, which helped emphasize his villain like personality. The dichotomy between Ceren and Talin was glaring, and brought together the differences between Varenians and the people of new castle. It really was a good book, and I'm glad I decided to finish it, and would recommend it to others.
sarahdenn27's review
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
ambeesbookishpages's review against another edition
4.0
The full review + more can be found at The Book Bratz
*Thank you so much Inkyard Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review Crown of Coral and Pearl!*
I've been working with Mara on an interview for the blog for the past few weeks, so I was super excited when I was approved on NetGalley for Crown of Coral and Pearl. I blew through this book in two sittings, it was a quick read with an intriguing story line that captured me from page one.
I really loved the bond between Nor and Zadie. Being twins and being groomed to become the next princess of Varenia. Especially how after Nor's accident and how the attention that was split among the both of them was now mostly focused on Zadie. Something that was devastating and that had lasting consequences for Nor made the bond between the twins even stronger. The story shows how far you will go for the people you love and the sacrifices are willing to make for their happiness. I know for me I would go to the ends of the earth for my sister and though we are not twins everything that Nor did for Zadie in this novel, I would do for my sister. Hands down. No questions asked.
I really enjoyed the two different settings the story takes place in. The first half Crown of Coral and Bone take place in the sun on the ocean and Nor feels free. She has the water, her sister and Sami and that is all she ever needed. The people of Varenia get a long, they have a fair governor and though it isn't easy to find pearls, they manage. The second half takes place on land in the darkness of the mountain castle that has little sunlight and keeps Nor caged and in the dark unlike her previous life.
The only issue I had with Crown of Coral and Bone is that I felt that the romance was a bit rushed. I get that Nor's situation was dire. But there was very little development in it before she was "in love" with this character. Don't get me wrong, the romance still managed to make me swoon and I loved it. I just wish it wasn't as rushed and there was more development.
Overall I really enjoyed Crown of Coral and Pearl and I am crossing my fingers for a sequel. I would love to see where these character's are going to go next and the fall out of the events of the end of the novel. If this does happen to be a stand alone, I've created a happily ever after for all of them. But fingers crossed!!!
*Thank you so much Inkyard Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review Crown of Coral and Pearl!*
I've been working with Mara on an interview for the blog for the past few weeks, so I was super excited when I was approved on NetGalley for Crown of Coral and Pearl. I blew through this book in two sittings, it was a quick read with an intriguing story line that captured me from page one.
I really loved the bond between Nor and Zadie. Being twins and being groomed to become the next princess of Varenia. Especially how after Nor's accident and how the attention that was split among the both of them was now mostly focused on Zadie. Something that was devastating and that had lasting consequences for Nor made the bond between the twins even stronger. The story shows how far you will go for the people you love and the sacrifices are willing to make for their happiness. I know for me I would go to the ends of the earth for my sister and though we are not twins everything that Nor did for Zadie in this novel, I would do for my sister. Hands down. No questions asked.
I really enjoyed the two different settings the story takes place in. The first half Crown of Coral and Bone take place in the sun on the ocean and Nor feels free. She has the water, her sister and Sami and that is all she ever needed. The people of Varenia get a long, they have a fair governor and though it isn't easy to find pearls, they manage. The second half takes place on land in the darkness of the mountain castle that has little sunlight and keeps Nor caged and in the dark unlike her previous life.
The only issue I had with Crown of Coral and Bone is that I felt that the romance was a bit rushed. I get that Nor's situation was dire. But there was very little development in it before she was "in love" with this character. Don't get me wrong, the romance still managed to make me swoon and I loved it. I just wish it wasn't as rushed and there was more development.
Overall I really enjoyed Crown of Coral and Pearl and I am crossing my fingers for a sequel. I would love to see where these character's are going to go next and the fall out of the events of the end of the novel. If this does happen to be a stand alone, I've created a happily ever after for all of them. But fingers crossed!!!
sp1derpr1ncess's review against another edition
3.0
I was so excited to read this book.
Which kinda made me disappointed after I’d finished it.
A Crown of Coral and Pearl was written in such a way that fantasy writers seem to often use, which was with a tone of (odd) formality. (Seriously, who calls their parents “Mother” and “Father”?) Thus, finding out that Nor was SEVENTEEN was shocking. The buildup to the actual shipment to Ilara was extensive, and could’ve been shortened. Also, i’m confused: is Valeria a floating city? Is it an island? Are the houses and everything built on stilts? Pls LMK.
Another issue I had was with the whole blood coral debacle. I don’t understand how it magically comes to fruition that blood coral can make people heal exponentially fast, as there doesn’t seem to be a complete train of thought leading up to this. The ending was anticlimactic and kind of.... BORING. (Also Nor’s relationship with Talin wasn’t even interesting since they spoke so formally to one another)
All this being said, the world building (besides the blood coral fiasco) was really nice. I didn’t feel plunged into anything without help, and the way Rutherford sets up her world was actually very good for only her first novel.
Overall, I will be reading the 2nd book though, since I am interested in what will become of Ilara and Valeria.
Which kinda made me disappointed after I’d finished it.
A Crown of Coral and Pearl was written in such a way that fantasy writers seem to often use, which was with a tone of (odd) formality. (Seriously, who calls their parents “Mother” and “Father”?) Thus, finding out that Nor was SEVENTEEN was shocking. The buildup to the actual shipment to Ilara was extensive, and could’ve been shortened. Also, i’m confused: is Valeria a floating city? Is it an island? Are the houses and everything built on stilts? Pls LMK.
Another issue I had was with the whole blood coral debacle. I don’t understand how it magically comes to fruition that blood coral can make people heal exponentially fast, as there doesn’t seem to be a complete train of thought leading up to this. The ending was anticlimactic and kind of.... BORING. (Also Nor’s relationship with Talin wasn’t even interesting since they spoke so formally to one another)
All this being said, the world building (besides the blood coral fiasco) was really nice. I didn’t feel plunged into anything without help, and the way Rutherford sets up her world was actually very good for only her first novel.
Overall, I will be reading the 2nd book though, since I am interested in what will become of Ilara and Valeria.
hazelsnoot's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
dogayye15's review
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I liked the complexity of the characters and the motives they all had. I like that Nor starts to find herself and learn what she's capable of and willing to stand for. I love the world building that is in the book as well.
alyssaindira's review against another edition
4.0
**NO MAJOR SPOILERS WERE HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THIS REVIEW**
"You have the power to do anything and everything you dream of, more than any person I’ve ever known. And that power, that inner strength, that is what makes you the most beautiful girl in Varenia."
Hey guys, so I finally got around to read this book. I could have sworn I had read one of Rutherford's books before, which is one of the reasons I really wanted to grab this. I am glad I did read this, giving it a chance. I felt like the writing was both quick paced and lengthy. The beginning was a bit draggy, and I kept wanting them to get to the action or work towards the plot. But I also understand that the first half of the book was just trying to build character and confidence, to instil the lore and depth of the novel, providing the backbone of the story, in a way. I do like the lore within the book, it was unique. I do like how easy this book was to read. It isnt too desription, so you do not get too caught up in the details. So, therefore, it makes for a relatively fast paced read.
However, this book does have some typical YA tropes, and I personally thought the twists werent...as shockig as they could have been. Whether that is just because I wasnt entirely invested, or how the story played out, I do not know. This book reminded me some of red queen and ..oh gosh, there was another book with a body double, now I cant remember the name. But it was similiar circumstances. And the tropes were done typically insta love, secrets, two brothers, etc...So that was not really surprising...just a typcial day...
As for the characters, I actually did like Nor. She was strong, and confidence, but also knew her fears and weaknesses. Her scar did not make her weak, but instead made her strong. I love that she took her insecurites and rolled with them. I also love how loyal she was to her family, especially her sister. I really liked that dynamic, because all toooften books and society show woman fighting against each other, it was nice to see her risk everything for her sister.
And um, the 'love' interests, to be honest I could care less about them. They were just plot devices that I spotted a mile away. One prince did manage to intrigued me with his...certain activities. But other than that...I did not really get swept into the 'romance' of this book, if you would even call it that.
I think the thing that made the book was Nor herself and her fight. Remember, this is all my opinion, if you want your own, read the book.
"You have the power to do anything and everything you dream of, more than any person I’ve ever known. And that power, that inner strength, that is what makes you the most beautiful girl in Varenia."
Hey guys, so I finally got around to read this book. I could have sworn I had read one of Rutherford's books before, which is one of the reasons I really wanted to grab this. I am glad I did read this, giving it a chance. I felt like the writing was both quick paced and lengthy. The beginning was a bit draggy, and I kept wanting them to get to the action or work towards the plot. But I also understand that the first half of the book was just trying to build character and confidence, to instil the lore and depth of the novel, providing the backbone of the story, in a way. I do like the lore within the book, it was unique. I do like how easy this book was to read. It isnt too desription, so you do not get too caught up in the details. So, therefore, it makes for a relatively fast paced read.
However, this book does have some typical YA tropes, and I personally thought the twists werent...as shockig as they could have been. Whether that is just because I wasnt entirely invested, or how the story played out, I do not know. This book reminded me some of red queen and ..oh gosh, there was another book with a body double, now I cant remember the name. But it was similiar circumstances. And the tropes were done typically insta love, secrets, two brothers, etc...So that was not really surprising...just a typcial day...
As for the characters, I actually did like Nor. She was strong, and confidence, but also knew her fears and weaknesses. Her scar did not make her weak, but instead made her strong. I love that she took her insecurites and rolled with them. I also love how loyal she was to her family, especially her sister. I really liked that dynamic, because all toooften books and society show woman fighting against each other, it was nice to see her risk everything for her sister.
And um, the 'love' interests, to be honest I could care less about them. They were just plot devices that I spotted a mile away. One prince did manage to intrigued me with his...certain activities. But other than that...I did not really get swept into the 'romance' of this book, if you would even call it that.
I think the thing that made the book was Nor herself and her fight. Remember, this is all my opinion, if you want your own, read the book.
readerlatte's review
5.0
I would say that if you haven't read the synopsis then don't!! It gives away SO MUCH!!!
OMG Guys if you don't have this book on your TBR you are MISSING OUT!! This book blew me away, first with this gorgeous cover and then with an amazing story.
The story opened with us learning a little about twin sisters Nor and Zadie as well as about their world. The author did this amazing job creating a world of sea fairing people as well as the cold world around them. I was drawn in from the very first page and didn't let go until the end. It was well paced and the writing style was pretty straight forward. I was never lost and could not put this one down!! The pacing was spot on and it was never slow. I thought that as the story unfolded it was done step by step in this beautiful and terrifying world that Rutherford has created.
The characters were freaking amazing. I do think that the author could do a novella about what was going on with Zadie as the story is told from Nor's POV. It would be interesting to know what she was going through as Nor's eyes were opened to the adventure she was hoping for. We do get to know a little about this towards the end of the story but its from another character and not straight on. So this would totally hold me over until book two comes out.
The characters were fabulous I loved Nor and her determination to keep her family safe. Even her mother who at times I really wondered if she even loved her children. Being a mom myself I wonder what was really going through her mind as she got her children ready over the years to be chosen. What kind of life did she really think her children if chosen would go too? This is another wonderful novella that I would love to read about.
When Nor meets Talin you could tell that they were drawn to each other but to really call this insta-love I just don't see it. This book happens over the course of a few months. So it's not very quick, their romance does take time. Ceren is one of the most frighting characters that I have read in sometime. He is brutal and freaking crazy if you ask me. And I am pretty sure that there will be some major twists when it comes to him in the following books. At least I really hope so. He is one of those evil characters that you love to hate.
Trying to review this book is so hard!! I loved every second of it and I can not wait for book two. It is one that I will not soon forget and one that everyone needs to read!!
Overall, I loved the beginning, middle, and end of this one. The ending was very satisfying and even though I know this is a series I think this ending works well. It does leave some loose ends such as what is going on with Zadie and wither or not a certain character is dead but it does a really great job to be a full novel in its own right. It was full of twists and turns and I hope you love it as much as I did!!
Favorite Quotes: Please note that these quotes are from the ARC, also these apparently are backwards in reading order.
"As I walked away, I realized the part of me that wanted to stay was the part I would never be able to listen to again."
"But he was right. I wanted to dance with him. And I may never get the chance to be held by someone I desired again."
"Mother had given us one gift, at least, that no amount of time or distance could erase, each other."
"Just as beauty cannot disguise who we really are beneath the surface."
"I'll go. But it will be my body that leaves, and nothing more. Samiel has my heart, and you dear sister, my soul."
"Varenia is my home. You and Samiel are my home. What more can the world possibly have to offer?" "Roses, I thought. And horses and castles and all manner of things I hadn't dared to imagine, surely. What didn't the world have to offer?"
OMG Guys if you don't have this book on your TBR you are MISSING OUT!! This book blew me away, first with this gorgeous cover and then with an amazing story.
The story opened with us learning a little about twin sisters Nor and Zadie as well as about their world. The author did this amazing job creating a world of sea fairing people as well as the cold world around them. I was drawn in from the very first page and didn't let go until the end. It was well paced and the writing style was pretty straight forward. I was never lost and could not put this one down!! The pacing was spot on and it was never slow. I thought that as the story unfolded it was done step by step in this beautiful and terrifying world that Rutherford has created.
The characters were freaking amazing. I do think that the author could do a novella about what was going on with Zadie as the story is told from Nor's POV. It would be interesting to know what she was going through as Nor's eyes were opened to the adventure she was hoping for. We do get to know a little about this towards the end of the story but its from another character and not straight on. So this would totally hold me over until book two comes out.
The characters were fabulous I loved Nor and her determination to keep her family safe. Even her mother who at times I really wondered if she even loved her children. Being a mom myself I wonder what was really going through her mind as she got her children ready over the years to be chosen. What kind of life did she really think her children if chosen would go too? This is another wonderful novella that I would love to read about.
When Nor meets Talin you could tell that they were drawn to each other but to really call this insta-love I just don't see it. This book happens over the course of a few months. So it's not very quick, their romance does take time. Ceren is one of the most frighting characters that I have read in sometime. He is brutal and freaking crazy if you ask me. And I am pretty sure that there will be some major twists when it comes to him in the following books. At least I really hope so. He is one of those evil characters that you love to hate.
Trying to review this book is so hard!! I loved every second of it and I can not wait for book two. It is one that I will not soon forget and one that everyone needs to read!!
Overall, I loved the beginning, middle, and end of this one. The ending was very satisfying and even though I know this is a series I think this ending works well. It does leave some loose ends such as what is going on with Zadie and wither or not a certain character is dead but it does a really great job to be a full novel in its own right. It was full of twists and turns and I hope you love it as much as I did!!
Favorite Quotes: Please note that these quotes are from the ARC, also these apparently are backwards in reading order.
"As I walked away, I realized the part of me that wanted to stay was the part I would never be able to listen to again."
"But he was right. I wanted to dance with him. And I may never get the chance to be held by someone I desired again."
"Mother had given us one gift, at least, that no amount of time or distance could erase, each other."
"Just as beauty cannot disguise who we really are beneath the surface."
"I'll go. But it will be my body that leaves, and nothing more. Samiel has my heart, and you dear sister, my soul."
"Varenia is my home. You and Samiel are my home. What more can the world possibly have to offer?" "Roses, I thought. And horses and castles and all manner of things I hadn't dared to imagine, surely. What didn't the world have to offer?"