Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.64 AVERAGE
3.64 AVERAGE
Want to see more bookish things from me? Check out my youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCferU-BCL2dlFjWdD0rS75Q
Ever since Avery was little, she has been constantly moving, following her mother's work. When she discovers that she may be the key to an ancient prophecy involving secret societies, she is suddenly thrust into the life of The Circle, which consists of the twelve most powerful families in the world. Following two mysterious boys across the world, she is hunted by The Order, the enemies to The Circle, while trying to rescue someone she loves.
This was a super fun read! Is it believable? Definitely not. But it was very entertaining! I was never bored while reading and with every flip of the page something new was happening. It felt almost like an action movie with all the treasure hunting and adventure that took place. I'm also a sucker for Paris so I was excited that a chunk of the book took place there!
I really enjoyed the characters in this! Avery got on my nerves at times for how 'special snowflake' she felt. But I still liked her enough, even though she's a bit of a moron for agreeing to jump on a plane with a boy she literally JUST met... but we'll let that one slide. She also got a tad annoying about mentioning how hot Jack is every few pages... but again... we'll let that slide. I was a big fan of Stellan, one of the two boys in the picture. I think his back story was interesting and I want to learn more. BUT, I was also a fan of Jack as well. I'm not sure who I'm rooting for (probably Stellan) so I'm definitely intrigued to see where the story progresses from here. Luc was definitely one of my favourite character, he's so sweet and pure and I want to protect him at all costs.
I'm definitely going to be picking up the second book!
Ever since Avery was little, she has been constantly moving, following her mother's work. When she discovers that she may be the key to an ancient prophecy involving secret societies, she is suddenly thrust into the life of The Circle, which consists of the twelve most powerful families in the world. Following two mysterious boys across the world, she is hunted by The Order, the enemies to The Circle, while trying to rescue someone she loves.
This was a super fun read! Is it believable? Definitely not. But it was very entertaining! I was never bored while reading and with every flip of the page something new was happening. It felt almost like an action movie with all the treasure hunting and adventure that took place. I'm also a sucker for Paris so I was excited that a chunk of the book took place there!
I really enjoyed the characters in this! Avery got on my nerves at times for how 'special snowflake' she felt. But I still liked her enough, even though she's a bit of a moron for agreeing to jump on a plane with a boy she literally JUST met... but we'll let that one slide. She also got a tad annoying about mentioning how hot Jack is every few pages... but again... we'll let that slide. I was a big fan of Stellan, one of the two boys in the picture. I think his back story was interesting and I want to learn more. BUT, I was also a fan of Jack as well. I'm not sure who I'm rooting for (probably Stellan) so I'm definitely intrigued to see where the story progresses from here. Luc was definitely one of my favourite character, he's so sweet and pure and I want to protect him at all costs.
I'm definitely going to be picking up the second book!
I liked the idea of the story, really, but the writing made it hard for me to connect with the characters. I can't even find it in myself to be biased about Stellan because even he himself was poorly executed.
3.5/5 Stars
When I heard that The Conspiracy of Us by Maggie Hall had a historical mystery akin to The Da Vinci Code, I knew I needed to read it. Secret societies and violent ends juxtaposed by the glitz and glam of fashion and a European backdrop. Heck yes! Avery's whirlwind journey through this whole new world is intense and dramatic keeping the reader guessing all the way to the end.
My favorite part of this story, which will come as no surprise, was the history and conspiracy within the pages. I love Dan Brown's Robert Langdon books and the National Treasure movies so it was a perfect fit. There are so many mysteries and legends throughout history that are not solved so I'm always drawn to theories and what if scenarios. Hall's use of Alexander the Great was the right decision. Such an iconic figure and an empire spanning a massive swath of the world made it the perfect choice. Plus the action and adventure made for a high tempo, gripping experience.
Onto the characters! As the main character, Avery West fell a little flat for me. She was just along for the ride for the most part but I did appreciate when she pitched in. I'm hoping that she comes into her own as the series continues. The boys, Jack and Stellan, were much more fascinating. With mysterious pasts, complicated relationships, and dueling loyalties, these two Circle associates brought all the excitement and intrigue into the story. Both their interactions with Avery and each other made The Conspiracy of Us compelling.
I did have a couple issues with this story though. What was up with Avery's life choices in this book? Just letting herself be taken across the world by someone she doesn't know and not putting up a fight. Asking some questions but not pushing for answers. I can understand wanting to rebel against her mother for the constant moving around but who goes that far? Also, the strange focus on fashion which didn't seem to fit within the narrative.
Overall, Maggie Hall's The Conspiracy of Us was an enjoyable read filled with adventure and mystery. While Avery's decision making skills are extremely questionable, I put it aside for her interactions with both Jack and Stellan. Plus mysteries of historical proportions always pull me in. It's just too hard to resist! I'd definitely recommend this, it just might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Originally posted on Hopeful Reads: http://wp.me/p6xfg7-1V7
When I heard that The Conspiracy of Us by Maggie Hall had a historical mystery akin to The Da Vinci Code, I knew I needed to read it. Secret societies and violent ends juxtaposed by the glitz and glam of fashion and a European backdrop. Heck yes! Avery's whirlwind journey through this whole new world is intense and dramatic keeping the reader guessing all the way to the end.
My favorite part of this story, which will come as no surprise, was the history and conspiracy within the pages. I love Dan Brown's Robert Langdon books and the National Treasure movies so it was a perfect fit. There are so many mysteries and legends throughout history that are not solved so I'm always drawn to theories and what if scenarios. Hall's use of Alexander the Great was the right decision. Such an iconic figure and an empire spanning a massive swath of the world made it the perfect choice. Plus the action and adventure made for a high tempo, gripping experience.
Onto the characters! As the main character, Avery West fell a little flat for me. She was just along for the ride for the most part but I did appreciate when she pitched in. I'm hoping that she comes into her own as the series continues. The boys, Jack and Stellan, were much more fascinating. With mysterious pasts, complicated relationships, and dueling loyalties, these two Circle associates brought all the excitement and intrigue into the story. Both their interactions with Avery and each other made The Conspiracy of Us compelling.
I did have a couple issues with this story though. What was up with Avery's life choices in this book? Just letting herself be taken across the world by someone she doesn't know and not putting up a fight. Asking some questions but not pushing for answers. I can understand wanting to rebel against her mother for the constant moving around but who goes that far? Also, the strange focus on fashion which didn't seem to fit within the narrative.
Overall, Maggie Hall's The Conspiracy of Us was an enjoyable read filled with adventure and mystery. While Avery's decision making skills are extremely questionable, I put it aside for her interactions with both Jack and Stellan. Plus mysteries of historical proportions always pull me in. It's just too hard to resist! I'd definitely recommend this, it just might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Originally posted on Hopeful Reads: http://wp.me/p6xfg7-1V7
I'm definitely intrigued by the overall plot line. I will probably pick up the second one when I can since I'm fascinated by the ties the Circle has to Alexander the Great and Napoleon. I liked how history had a tie and I'm always in for political intrigue.
One thing I was really confused was the whole Order vs Circle. These words are so similar so I had trouble keeping the "good" vs "bad" guys straight. Otherwise, I liked most of this. The romance was a bit predictable, but I enjoyedJack and Avery when they were together.
The ending is making me scrunch my face and be like "Really?". I am just very suspicious about the whole end. And it wasn't wrapped up like at all so rude. At least it was only a mild cliff hanger and not a severe one. Overall, I am interested but not crazy about this book, but it was decent.
One thing I was really confused was the whole Order vs Circle. These words are so similar so I had trouble keeping the "good" vs "bad" guys straight. Otherwise, I liked most of this. The romance was a bit predictable, but I enjoyed
The ending is making me scrunch my face and be like "Really?". I am just very suspicious about the whole end. And it wasn't wrapped up like at all so rude. At least it was only a mild cliff hanger and not a severe one. Overall, I am interested but not crazy about this book, but it was decent.
Wow! What an introduction! The most disappointing part of this book is that it is the first of an unreleased book series. I have 2-3 more years to see how all this plays out.
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: http://bookbriefs.net**YA ReviewMy ThoughtsHave you ever picked up a book and by the time you were finished, you were convinced that the author crafted the book just for you? That was what happened to be with The Conspiracy of Us by Maggie Hall. It was like the author poked around in my head, and pulled out a bunch of winning elements for me, mashed them all together and popped out a story that was sure to make me fall in love with it. Everyone is comparing The Conspiracy of Us to The DaVinci Code, and I get that comparison, but I feel like it was even more than that. It felt like The DaVinci Code mixed with Tomb Raider mixed with the biggest international secret society of all. Plus the focus was on Alexander the Great, who I think is a fascinating historical figure. (and yes, I do know that a ton of "facts" surrounding Alexander have been fictionalized and sensationalized throughout history, but that just makes him all the more interesting in my opinion.) The Conspiracy of Us will leave you wanting more.
I was immediately swept up in the Circle of Twelve and everything that has to do with them. Personally, I really enjoyed a majority of the characters in this book. I know some readers biggest complaint was that they didn't feel a connection to Avery, but I did. I got that she so badly wanted to know more about her father, because she thought it would fill something in her. She was constantly on the move, and constantly stuck in surface level relationships. She wanted something more, something deeper. I think that was her driving motivation throughout the whole story. Avery's mom was my only annoyance in The Conspiracy of Us. I don't like the whole Parents keeping their kids in the dark about some huge part of them or their lives. (but it does happen a lot.) However, as Avery was brought into the mystery and intrigue of the Circle of Twelve, I soon forgot about that roadblock, and I was quickly swept up in the Mandate. I couldn't read this book fast enough. I kept wanting to get to more clues.
There is a dash of romance thrown in, to satisfy that romantic sweet tooth, and I think there will be even more to come. Honestly, I just can't wait to get my hands on the next book. Maggie Hall does such a great job making you want more, that while I am kicking myself for waiting so long to read The Conspiracy of Us, I am also happy that I did wait, because book two- The Map of Fates comes out in only 2 months. The Conspiracy of Us ends on a cliffhanger, so if you are smart, you will grab books 1 and 2 at the same time and start on a wonderful binge read. You will thank me.
Bottom line: If you are a fan of The Davinci Code, of secret societies, of history and of tomb raider this book is a match made in heaven for you. There isn't much to NOT love. I loved this book so much. It is a favorite of mine for sure.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
I was immediately swept up in the Circle of Twelve and everything that has to do with them. Personally, I really enjoyed a majority of the characters in this book. I know some readers biggest complaint was that they didn't feel a connection to Avery, but I did. I got that she so badly wanted to know more about her father, because she thought it would fill something in her. She was constantly on the move, and constantly stuck in surface level relationships. She wanted something more, something deeper. I think that was her driving motivation throughout the whole story. Avery's mom was my only annoyance in The Conspiracy of Us. I don't like the whole Parents keeping their kids in the dark about some huge part of them or their lives. (but it does happen a lot.) However, as Avery was brought into the mystery and intrigue of the Circle of Twelve, I soon forgot about that roadblock, and I was quickly swept up in the Mandate. I couldn't read this book fast enough. I kept wanting to get to more clues.
There is a dash of romance thrown in, to satisfy that romantic sweet tooth, and I think there will be even more to come. Honestly, I just can't wait to get my hands on the next book. Maggie Hall does such a great job making you want more, that while I am kicking myself for waiting so long to read The Conspiracy of Us, I am also happy that I did wait, because book two- The Map of Fates comes out in only 2 months. The Conspiracy of Us ends on a cliffhanger, so if you are smart, you will grab books 1 and 2 at the same time and start on a wonderful binge read. You will thank me.
Bottom line: If you are a fan of The Davinci Code, of secret societies, of history and of tomb raider this book is a match made in heaven for you. There isn't much to NOT love. I loved this book so much. It is a favorite of mine for sure.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
This review contains SPOILERS!
This book definitely brought me on an adventure. I was told there was a love triangle, but maybe it appears more in the next book because to me, there didn't seem to be any competition between Stellan and Jack. It was obvious who Avery wanted - she never struggled to choose or was swayed. She acknowledged Stellan's looks but that's about it. And now with the prophecy... I guess she is torn between them. But her heart isn't. Anyway.
Am I the only one who thought that prophecy was ridiculously simple? If you've read the Percy Jackson series (and the Heroes of Olympus series) by Rick Riordan, then you know what a good prophecy sounds like. First, and most importantly, nothing is every what it seems. What fulfills the prophecy is the last thing you expect. And I'm pretty sure prophecies rhyme. Maybe I'm wrong, but considering the prophecy was pretty much exactly what it said (survives fire, leader, achilles, etc), I wasn't blown away when Avery figured it out. Anyone who knew Stellan prior to the events of the novel probably could have figured it out. It just didn't surprise me in the end.
Jack was great. Love him. I love that he's willing to make sacrifices, and that Avery turned his world upside-down, and that it took time of the relationship to build up. Sort of. I like that Avery came into her own and took risks and put herself in danger when this wasn't the life she was used to.
I don't really have much else to say. Stellan was an ass. Can't see how he could possibly hold a candle to Jack in the second book. The Dauphin family made me so so angry, but they got what was coming to them.
This book definitely brought me on an adventure. I was told there was a love triangle, but maybe it appears more in the next book because to me, there didn't seem to be any competition between Stellan and Jack. It was obvious who Avery wanted - she never struggled to choose or was swayed. She acknowledged Stellan's looks but that's about it. And now with the prophecy... I guess she is torn between them. But her heart isn't. Anyway.
Am I the only one who thought that prophecy was ridiculously simple? If you've read the Percy Jackson series (and the Heroes of Olympus series) by Rick Riordan, then you know what a good prophecy sounds like. First, and most importantly, nothing is every what it seems. What fulfills the prophecy is the last thing you expect. And I'm pretty sure prophecies rhyme. Maybe I'm wrong, but considering the prophecy was pretty much exactly what it said (survives fire, leader, achilles, etc), I wasn't blown away when Avery figured it out. Anyone who knew Stellan prior to the events of the novel probably could have figured it out. It just didn't surprise me in the end.
Jack was great. Love him. I love that he's willing to make sacrifices, and that Avery turned his world upside-down, and that it took time of the relationship to build up. Sort of. I like that Avery came into her own and took risks and put herself in danger when this wasn't the life she was used to.
I don't really have much else to say. Stellan was an ass. Can't see how he could possibly hold a candle to Jack in the second book. The Dauphin family made me so so angry, but they got what was coming to them.
Suspenseful, fast paced and filled with adventure and action. Totally surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. The characters were all great and Hall's writing was very engaging! I'm looking forward to continuing the series at some point!
Full review will be posted on the blog soon: www.the-contentedreader.com
Full review will be posted on the blog soon: www.the-contentedreader.com
One hour into the audiobook, and I just can't finish. The narrator is fine, but the story is shit. Boring. Predictable.