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4.04 AVERAGE
4.04 AVERAGE
4.5 stars.
I am just so happy.
So happy.
I pretty much knew I would love this series. I did. But I had no idea what I was in store for.
NONE.
And I think that's a good thing. It means that expectations were met-and exceeded. I think it's pretty crazy that I was kinda spoiled for a few things(Thanks, sister!) and yet still was completely enamored by everything that was going on. This is, hands down, the best brother/sibling book I have ever in my life read. EVER. And, it must be said, I cried at every journal entry. Every. Single. Damn. One.
So essentially, READ THIS BOOK. You won't regret it, I promise. I mean, sure, it wasn't perfect; it had some issues. The love triangle that is more like a hexagon is a bit absurd, for example. But for some insane reason, I can work past, with practically zero effort, everything that I thought could have been better. I don't really care about them, because nothing upset me and every other beautiful amazing thing made up for it more than enough. That is rare, my friends.
Now come the spoilers...
*drowning in tears* You make Alan happy, you stupid bloody fool. And also Mae, sometimes, when she sees your face.
DANIEL RYVES, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN. DANIEL FREAKING RYVES. This man deserves all the awards in the world. He honestly is one of my favorite characters, and we don't even meet the man!! I would take a whole book, or several, about Daniel and Nick and Alan as kids. I WOULD TAKE THAT SO HARD.
I am just so happy.
So happy.
I pretty much knew I would love this series. I did. But I had no idea what I was in store for.
NONE.
And I think that's a good thing. It means that expectations were met-and exceeded. I think it's pretty crazy that I was kinda spoiled for a few things(Thanks, sister!) and yet still was completely enamored by everything that was going on. This is, hands down, the best brother/sibling book I have ever in my life read. EVER. And, it must be said, I cried at every journal entry. Every. Single. Damn. One.
So essentially, READ THIS BOOK. You won't regret it, I promise. I mean, sure, it wasn't perfect; it had some issues. The love triangle that is more like a hexagon is a bit absurd, for example. But for some insane reason, I can work past, with practically zero effort, everything that I thought could have been better. I don't really care about them, because nothing upset me and every other beautiful amazing thing made up for it more than enough. That is rare, my friends.
Now come the spoilers...
Spoiler
Imma gonna quote some of my favorite quotes. Or really, just some of the most feels inducing ones."In two words," said Alan quietly, "there is nothing I love half as much as you."
"Sometimes I want to be human for you."
"I-" said Nick, his voice halting. "I don't mind it as much when - when people touch me. Some people."
"Because you trust them not to hurt you?" Mae asked tentatively.
"No," Nick said, his voice harsh. "Because I'd let them hurt me."
"That's how it goes," he said, expressionless. "We never make humans happy. They always think we might." He turned his face away and added, in a soft voice, not gentle but like a rising fire, "I don't think we can."
*drowning in tears* You make Alan happy, you stupid bloody fool. And also Mae, sometimes, when she sees your face.
"I don't know what truth will mean to Alan by the time he reads this, or if Nick will ever be able to read it and understand anything I was trying to say, but I wanted to put real feeling down here. So that they could open this book if they ever wanted to, and know beyond doubt or death what they meant to me.
This is not the story I meant to write, nor the apology I wanted to give or an explanation that would make everything worthwhile.
But one thing is very clear to me now. I am writing this for both my sons."
DANIEL RYVES, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN. DANIEL FREAKING RYVES. This man deserves all the awards in the world. He honestly is one of my favorite characters, and we don't even meet the man!! I would take a whole book, or several, about Daniel and Nick and Alan as kids. I WOULD TAKE THAT SO HARD.
Low and cold, Nick said, "Betray me."
Alan's head snapped up. "What?"
Betray me," Nick said again, still in that terrible toneless demon's voice, hands clenching on the kitchen counter so hard Mae thought it would break. "Turn me over to the magicians, take the magic, do whatever you think you need to do, I do not care. But don't leave."
I'm going to make you sorry," he whispered in that demon's voice, like chains settling on your hands and feet, like a chill getting so deep into your blood it would never leave and you would never be warm again. "I'll make time longer, just so you can suffer in it. I'll never let you die. You'll live to the end of the world, crawling, bleeding, begging, wishing you had never even thought of touching my brother."
"Yes,” Alan told him, and Nick was suddenly, terribly silent. “Being your brother is dangerous," He continued. “It was a risk I took, it was something I chose. I changed myself and the world to keep you. And you were worth it.”
"And if Gerald kills you," Nick ground out. “If he does worse.”
“Then you were still worth it."
"You are so stupid. I hate you sometimes. I hate you. And I don’t know how to save you!"
[b:The Demon's Lexicon|1829655|The Demon's Lexicon (The Demon's Lexicon Trilogy, #1)|Sarah Rees Brennan|http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eglfjL5XL._SL75_.jpg|1829467] was told from the Nick's point of view; Nick and his older brother Alan had spent their lives on the run from the magicians who had killed their father. When Mae and her younger brother Jamie come to Alan for help with the demon's mark on Jamie, Nick is reluctant to get involved. The only thing he cares about is protecting Alan.
The Demon's Covenant switches to Mae's point of view, and takes place several weeks after the end of The Demon's Lexicon. Mae discovers that Jamie is in trouble again, and she calls Alan (and Nick) for help. The magicians want to recruit Jamie as one of their own, and Mae isn't sure that Jamie wants to resist. Meanwhile, there are clearly problems between Alan and Nick after the events in the first book. Mae is desperate to help both of them, and to save her brother. Can she rescue all three, or will she have to choose?
One thing that really makes this trilogy stand out is the relationships between the two sets of siblings. If I were to teach this in a class, I might ask questions like "What is family?" and "What is loyalty?" and "Would you save the world if it meant killing your brother?" This book also leaves me pondering what it means to be human, and what it means to feel love. And though there are moments that I might sacrifice both Alan and Jamie, it is also clear to me why Nick and Mae never would.
Another thing that I love about this trilogy is that even though it can be dark and intense, there is humor laced throughout. The danger in these books is real, and characters suffer and die, and Nick and Alan have had a pretty bleak childhood, but there are also some very funny parts, especially in the dialogue. Jamie and Nick are unintentionally hilarious and their unlikely friendship was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The Demon's Covenant is also rare in that it left me primed and excited for the next book without feeling dissatisfied with this one. While these books aren't exactly stand alone (how could you not be desperate to read them all?), they are complete in and of themselves. Relationships advance, conflicts are resolved, battles are fought. There is a feeling of conclusion at the end, even if the players are merely resting between battles.
I can't rave about this trilogy enough. It's brilliant. I can't wait to read book three. Honestly, I can hardly wait to read books one and two again. Read them. Read them NOW.
The Demon's Covenant switches to Mae's point of view, and takes place several weeks after the end of The Demon's Lexicon. Mae discovers that Jamie is in trouble again, and she calls Alan (and Nick) for help. The magicians want to recruit Jamie as one of their own, and Mae isn't sure that Jamie wants to resist. Meanwhile, there are clearly problems between Alan and Nick after the events in the first book. Mae is desperate to help both of them, and to save her brother. Can she rescue all three, or will she have to choose?
One thing that really makes this trilogy stand out is the relationships between the two sets of siblings. If I were to teach this in a class, I might ask questions like "What is family?" and "What is loyalty?" and "Would you save the world if it meant killing your brother?" This book also leaves me pondering what it means to be human, and what it means to feel love. And though there are moments that I might sacrifice both Alan and Jamie, it is also clear to me why Nick and Mae never would.
Another thing that I love about this trilogy is that even though it can be dark and intense, there is humor laced throughout. The danger in these books is real, and characters suffer and die, and Nick and Alan have had a pretty bleak childhood, but there are also some very funny parts, especially in the dialogue. Jamie and Nick are unintentionally hilarious and their unlikely friendship was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The Demon's Covenant is also rare in that it left me primed and excited for the next book without feeling dissatisfied with this one. While these books aren't exactly stand alone (how could you not be desperate to read them all?), they are complete in and of themselves. Relationships advance, conflicts are resolved, battles are fought. There is a feeling of conclusion at the end, even if the players are merely resting between battles.
I can't rave about this trilogy enough. It's brilliant. I can't wait to read book three. Honestly, I can hardly wait to read books one and two again. Read them. Read them NOW.
Just finished The Demon's Covenant, sequel to The Demon's Lexicon - see favorite quotes here http://bit.ly/4uhORj and here http://bit.ly/eHleqg and http://bit.ly/eVqGqd . Liked it as much as The Mortal Instruments and Infernal Devices. Also loved White Cat by Holly Black.
You know what, this was actually better than the first one! I like how she's clearly thought a lot about how real people would actually behave in fantastical situations, and she doesn't take the easy way out.
I really like this series! Can't wait to read the next one!
Review originally posted here.
Why I Read It: No, I wasn't crazy about The Demon's Lexicon, but I WANT to. So I read this in the hopes that it got better. It did. Marginally.
I need to stop writing book reviews days and days after reading them, or at least take notes while I read (I don't -- I find it distracting), because I honestly have nothing to say about this book. I know it was more enjoyable to read than the Demon's Lexicon, but I'm not entirely sure why. I guess I'll try to figure that out while I write this.
First off, I want to say that it was much better not being stuck inside Nick's head. I'm not crazy about Mae (more on that in a bit), but Nick's constant brooding and negativity drove me crazy. Yeah, I know, he's a demon so he doesn't HAVE feelings and all his brooding and being cranky is just because he can't help it, but it BUGGED THE SHIZ out of me. So being inside Mae's head, who is much friendlier and less surly was a welcome relief.
So how is Mae in this second installment? Honestly, I found her boring. I understand that it's very intentional that she be an ordinary girl amongst these extraordinary people and circumstances, so that ISN'T what I found boring. I actually liked that she was struggling with what was going on around her; she just wants to be normal and to lead a normal life, but she CAN'T, and a part of her doesn't want to because of her love for the Goblin Market. But I found that the focus of her drama and overall arc was too focused on the romance: is she going to pick Seb, Nick or Alan? And I don't think women (or anybody) should be tethered to one person when they're not in a committed relationship, but running around kissing three boys at the same time? Really? I did like the focus on her love for her brother though, so I'm not saying she's a one-dimensional character who is characterized solely by her relationship to other dudes, because she's not, but she just didn't do it for me.
The other characters are much more fleshed out though thankfully. I liked that Nick actually felt like a threat in this book. I don't know if it's because we watch him from Mae's perspective, but he was actually kind of menacing this time around, and he did this while also being more friendly. How in the hell? But I loved that he was "friends" with Jamie (quotation marks because I'm not sure how much was him just being possessive and faking for Alan's sake). Similarly, Alan was a lot more complex in this book too. Where I found him to be a Too Nice Guy in the first book (though that was kind of shattered by the end), this time around the reader is much more wary of him. But despite the fact that he's manipulative, you really do get the sense that he just wants somebody to love him. I mean, he's protected and cared for Nick since he was four and was rewarded with someone who is incapable of feeling love (though Nick certainly tries, and obviously LIKES Alan and wants his approval -- that whole matter has also been given a layer of complexity.)
So looking at all this is making me think I liked the book more than I initially thought. But what's holding me back from truly loving it? The answer is sadly, for me, the writing. I complained in my review of Lexicon that the writing felt amateurish and had a fanfiction vibe to it and I'm still getting that this time around. The writing has definitely improved from the first book, but I still don't gel with it completely. Some people find the dialogue witty and snappy; I find it corny and it makes me roll my eyes. But even outside of dialogue (because humour is a personal thing), I find the writing is lacking. It's very accessible, but it lacks finesse.
Another thing that's still bugging me is I find the world-building lacking as well. I still don't have a firm grip on the rules of this world, which made me not really care for the big hoo-hah at the end of the book (which I don't want to talk about too much because of spoilers.) I feel like there are too many holes and not enough explained, or the things that ARE explained aren't explained very well.
Final Verdict: This second installment in the series was definitely better than the first, but it still left me wanting more. I don't think I'll ever be a huge fan of this series like so many others seem to be. The characters were more complex and layered this time around, but the writing and world-building still felt lacking. Will I read the last book in the series? Yes; I've gotten this far so I may as well finish. I'm a little saddened to know that the main POV won't be from Alan though -- I was really hoping for that and expecting it. Ah well.
Good book, but I didn't like it as much as the first and I just never got sucked into it.
Note: This review references Demon’s Lexicon. I try to keep the big reveal a secret, but, proceed with caution if you have not read the first book.
It took a very long time for me to finish Demon’s Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan. I should note, however, that this doesn’t mean that it wasn’t a good story.
I disliked the character of Mae in the first book - I found her little annoying. I know she was driven by her love for her brother, but she also accosted strangers and then practically threw herself at them and it seemed a little off. Unfortunately, Demon’s Covenant was written from Mae’s point of view. I was hoping I would gain insight into her character and thus, love her more, but that was not the case here and so the book dragged on for me.
Picking up where the Demon’s Lexicon left off, Demon’s Covenant finds Jaime acting strange, Nick and Alan’s relationship tense and Mae in the middle of boy trouble (something she manages to find with practically every male character in this book! Quite an accomplishment). We visit the familiar Goblin Market which is just as rich in it’s description and magic as in the first installation of the story. The Obsidian Circle and Gerald are back with the threat of a new mark that makes them even more powerful. Other familiar characters are back as well and we see a lot more interaction and relationship between Jaime, Mae and Annabel.
I’m not sure if this was because of Mae, however, I found that middle of the book dragged a bit. It seemed as though things were happening, but the plot was not moving forward. The ending, however, made up for what the middle lacked. Action-packed and with several heartwarming moments, I thought it was well executed. I kept thinking that Sarah was going to pull the rug out from under us - especially after the first book - and she did! While not on the same level as the ending of Demon’s Lexicon, (but let’s face it, who saw that end coming?) it came startlingly close and was every bit brilliant.
It took a very long time for me to finish Demon’s Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan. I should note, however, that this doesn’t mean that it wasn’t a good story.
I disliked the character of Mae in the first book - I found her little annoying. I know she was driven by her love for her brother, but she also accosted strangers and then practically threw herself at them and it seemed a little off. Unfortunately, Demon’s Covenant was written from Mae’s point of view. I was hoping I would gain insight into her character and thus, love her more, but that was not the case here and so the book dragged on for me.
Picking up where the Demon’s Lexicon left off, Demon’s Covenant finds Jaime acting strange, Nick and Alan’s relationship tense and Mae in the middle of boy trouble (something she manages to find with practically every male character in this book! Quite an accomplishment). We visit the familiar Goblin Market which is just as rich in it’s description and magic as in the first installation of the story. The Obsidian Circle and Gerald are back with the threat of a new mark that makes them even more powerful. Other familiar characters are back as well and we see a lot more interaction and relationship between Jaime, Mae and Annabel.
I’m not sure if this was because of Mae, however, I found that middle of the book dragged a bit. It seemed as though things were happening, but the plot was not moving forward. The ending, however, made up for what the middle lacked. Action-packed and with several heartwarming moments, I thought it was well executed. I kept thinking that Sarah was going to pull the rug out from under us - especially after the first book - and she did! While not on the same level as the ending of Demon’s Lexicon, (but let’s face it, who saw that end coming?) it came startlingly close and was every bit brilliant.
I went into this without reading any reviews, so a very fresh blank slate and the lingering memory of my love for The Demon’s Lexicon. The Demon’s Covenant? Even better.
But how is this possible? Could it be because the writing has grown exponentially? That humour is subtlety interlaced perfectly? That the characterization is mind blowing? The plot was oh-my-god amazing? The climax that will rival the one from DL (that is saying something!)? And the make out scenes (oh man, the make out scenes!) with the love triangles? *swoons a bit*
The answer to all of the above is a big fat YES. Sarah Rees Brennan is an undoubtedly clever author capable of weaving a fast-paced, action-filled novel that doesn’t surrender to sequel-syndrome.
The characters are arguably my favourite part of the novel (since I loved everything..) because being a sequel, it gives way to character development that sometimes goes overboard in middle-novels. Brennan keeps this in check and unveils true intentions layer by layer in a way that keeps you guessing and doubting the whole time. Each character becomes alive a jumps off the page (and into your heart).
The writing in this one never distracted me, and kept me engaged and flipping the pages well into the night. Although I don’t have an elephant's memory of DL, I do think that this time around, the writing improved by leaps and bounds, showing the author’s tremendous growth. Action scenes were concise and clear, and the descriptions, especially of the Goblin Market were unique and vivid. The whole magician/demon world created was fantastic.
Parting thoughts: I can NOT wait for the next book!!! Oh, and there are a few new sub-plots introduced and loose ends...and a huge loose end just setting up Book 3.
4.8/5 – because it ties with two of my favourite books this year. It has an engaging plot with endless twists and turns, wonderful writing, and characters you aren’t embarrassed to wear a ridiculous suit for if that meant cheering them on and falling in love with them. If you are by any chance thinking of the next paranormal book to read, pick up this series now. Read The Demon’s Lexicon first, and keep a jar handy for all the bits of your brain when you get your mind blown.
To read a full, in-depth review on my blog, click here.
But how is this possible? Could it be because the writing has grown exponentially? That humour is subtlety interlaced perfectly? That the characterization is mind blowing? The plot was oh-my-god amazing? The climax that will rival the one from DL (that is saying something!)? And the make out scenes (oh man, the make out scenes!) with the love triangles? *swoons a bit*
The answer to all of the above is a big fat YES. Sarah Rees Brennan is an undoubtedly clever author capable of weaving a fast-paced, action-filled novel that doesn’t surrender to sequel-syndrome.
The characters are arguably my favourite part of the novel (since I loved everything..) because being a sequel, it gives way to character development that sometimes goes overboard in middle-novels. Brennan keeps this in check and unveils true intentions layer by layer in a way that keeps you guessing and doubting the whole time. Each character becomes alive a jumps off the page (and into your heart).
The writing in this one never distracted me, and kept me engaged and flipping the pages well into the night. Although I don’t have an elephant's memory of DL, I do think that this time around, the writing improved by leaps and bounds, showing the author’s tremendous growth. Action scenes were concise and clear, and the descriptions, especially of the Goblin Market were unique and vivid. The whole magician/demon world created was fantastic.
Parting thoughts: I can NOT wait for the next book!!! Oh, and there are a few new sub-plots introduced and loose ends...and a huge loose end just setting up Book 3.
4.8/5 – because it ties with two of my favourite books this year. It has an engaging plot with endless twists and turns, wonderful writing, and characters you aren’t embarrassed to wear a ridiculous suit for if that meant cheering them on and falling in love with them. If you are by any chance thinking of the next paranormal book to read, pick up this series now. Read The Demon’s Lexicon first, and keep a jar handy for all the bits of your brain when you get your mind blown.
To read a full, in-depth review on my blog, click here.