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I know, it took me long enough. I have actually only read one Gillian Flynn book and that is Gone Girl, which I really enjoyed. It has been years but I remember being slightly disappointed in the ending. When Sharp Objects became available on Libby, I just had to get it. This audiobook is narrated by Ann Marie Lee. *WARNING* POSSIBLE TRIGGERS
The story begins with an extremely troubled journalist, Camille. She doesn’t exactly have the greatest family. So much so, she dreads being sent to her home town to cover a story of one girl that was killed and another missing. Her mother is like royalty in this small town and Camille hardly knows anything about her step-sister, Amma. She stays with her family, just until she is done with her story. However, even one day would be too long. Turns out Amma is not a typical 13-year-old girl. She acts one way for their mother and is a monster out in public. Soon, the other missing girl turns up. She has been murdered too. The cases both point to a serial killer and her family seems way too close to it. Camille is determined to get this story, but her past issues start to come back, making it difficult to do her job.
This book is Mommy Dearest: The Next Level. Goodness, the dysfunction in this family is something. Really something. There were points where it is so twisted, it wasn’t actually believable. However, it did make for great suspense. Ann Marie Lee, the narrator, also did a fantastic job of conveying that suspense.
This book throws many serious topics at the readers: self-mutilation, mental illness, bullying, depression, alcoholism, abuse, assault….the list goes on. Somehow, all these topics don’t weigh down the story but just add to the suspense. I never felt bored, mostly shocked. Gillian Flynn really flirts with that twisted line.
Besides the not believable storyline, the other thing I wasn’t a fan of is the characters. Quite honestly, I hated every single one. There is not one single likable character. I just needed one. Just one. However, the ending is not all that predictable which is a win for me. So overall, I rate this audiobook 3 out of 5 stars! I definitely intend to watch the show soon!
The story begins with an extremely troubled journalist, Camille. She doesn’t exactly have the greatest family. So much so, she dreads being sent to her home town to cover a story of one girl that was killed and another missing. Her mother is like royalty in this small town and Camille hardly knows anything about her step-sister, Amma. She stays with her family, just until she is done with her story. However, even one day would be too long. Turns out Amma is not a typical 13-year-old girl. She acts one way for their mother and is a monster out in public. Soon, the other missing girl turns up. She has been murdered too. The cases both point to a serial killer and her family seems way too close to it. Camille is determined to get this story, but her past issues start to come back, making it difficult to do her job.
This book is Mommy Dearest: The Next Level. Goodness, the dysfunction in this family is something. Really something. There were points where it is so twisted, it wasn’t actually believable. However, it did make for great suspense. Ann Marie Lee, the narrator, also did a fantastic job of conveying that suspense.
This book throws many serious topics at the readers: self-mutilation, mental illness, bullying, depression, alcoholism, abuse, assault….the list goes on. Somehow, all these topics don’t weigh down the story but just add to the suspense. I never felt bored, mostly shocked. Gillian Flynn really flirts with that twisted line.
Besides the not believable storyline, the other thing I wasn’t a fan of is the characters. Quite honestly, I hated every single one. There is not one single likable character. I just needed one. Just one. However, the ending is not all that predictable which is a win for me. So overall, I rate this audiobook 3 out of 5 stars! I definitely intend to watch the show soon!
I have read many Julie Klassen novels and was overjoyed when I received The Bridge to Belle Island by Julie Klassen. This book introduces a lawyer named Benjamin Booker who experiences a detrimental loss in his career. So now, he has trust issues, particularly with beautiful women. When he and his mentor discover that an old partner has been found murdered, they are determined to bring the culprit to justice. The evidence leads them to Isabelle Wilder on Belle Island. Isabelle has experienced so much tragedy in her life that she has not left her island in 10 years. Or has she? Evidence points to her, but she is adamant that she is innocent. Can Benjamin believe her? Or is he too trusting? If she is innocent, then who committed the murder?
I have always enjoyed Julie Klassen novels but this one is just on another level! There is a wonderful romance story and historical aspect, but the murder mystery just adds so much more. It is complex and I was trying to solve the murder as I was reading. It was not predictable either, which is huge for me! The moment I picked up the book, I did not want to put it down. The characters feel so real and engaging. In fact, I could really relate to both Benjamin and Isabelle. Benjamin struggles with vertigo and Isabelle struggles with severe anxiety. Both of which, I struggle with. In fact, both put me in the hospital. So I could really relate to the fear and struggle they both experience. I really hope people can learn how debilitating both of these illnesses are.
The book touches on many themes, but the major one is forgiveness which really tugs at the heartstrings. Isabelle is such a darling character and watching her rise above and care for those around her and forgive those who hurt her the most. Then seeing Benjamin deal with learning to trust again is beautiful as well. Those who enjoy inspirational historical fiction will love this book and those who love a good mystery won’t be disappointed either! This book deserves 5 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to Julie Klassen, Bethany House, and NetGalley for a copy of the book!
I have always enjoyed Julie Klassen novels but this one is just on another level! There is a wonderful romance story and historical aspect, but the murder mystery just adds so much more. It is complex and I was trying to solve the murder as I was reading. It was not predictable either, which is huge for me! The moment I picked up the book, I did not want to put it down. The characters feel so real and engaging. In fact, I could really relate to both Benjamin and Isabelle. Benjamin struggles with vertigo and Isabelle struggles with severe anxiety. Both of which, I struggle with. In fact, both put me in the hospital. So I could really relate to the fear and struggle they both experience. I really hope people can learn how debilitating both of these illnesses are.
The book touches on many themes, but the major one is forgiveness which really tugs at the heartstrings. Isabelle is such a darling character and watching her rise above and care for those around her and forgive those who hurt her the most. Then seeing Benjamin deal with learning to trust again is beautiful as well. Those who enjoy inspirational historical fiction will love this book and those who love a good mystery won’t be disappointed either! This book deserves 5 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to Julie Klassen, Bethany House, and NetGalley for a copy of the book!
Just look at that cover. It isn’t hard to imagine why I wanted to read Coral by Sara Ella. Between the cover and finding out it has a fairy tale twist, I just could not pass it up. However, if you struggle with depression, mental illness and have certain triggers. You may want to avoid my review.
WARNING! MENTAL HEALTH TRIGGERS!
Coral is a mermaid and her father is the King. She has two sisters, Jordan and The Crown Princess. Emotions are for humans, not merpeople. The Crown Princess is struggling. Her father doesn’t seem to understand. Coral is the only one who shows any empathy towards The Crown Princess. She has a disease and Coral is showing signs of it as well. On land, Brooke is admitted into a mental health group therapy facility. No matter if those around her try to reach out she still feels alone. Then there is Merrick. He comes from a wealthy family, but they also are torn apart by mental illness. After is mom leaves, he goes to find her, and along the way meets a mesmerizing girl named Coral.
I am so torn. I really wanted to love this book. However, I want to give a HUGE thank you to the author. I love that she took a popular fairy tale and used it to bring awareness to mental health, depression, anxiety, and suicide. The fact that mental health is the sole focus of this book is amazing.
That being said. The book is hard to read. Not the themes. The points of view transitions of Coral, Brooke, and Merrick are so rough. There were many times where I thought I had to re-read the book because I was so confused. There are a few moments where I didn’t even know that the characters changed points of view. That brings me to the characters. We don’t ever get detail about the characters. They are all defined by their mental illness or how it has affected those around them. We don’t really get to know them outside of their internal struggles. This makes the story feel like it has a lack of depth.
This may seem silly. And it may just be me. But personally, I was not a fan of the description. Specifically in the Mer World. (Is that what we call it?) She talks about the seaweed bedsheets or eel gel. I know this is a young adult book, but this felt like something that would have been in a children’s book. Instead of immersing me in this world, it actually made me tune out. Plus, when Coral comes to the surface, she just seems to blend right in like it is second nature. It just didn’t seem believable.
Overall, I really applaud the author for trying to bring a story that we love and bring awareness to mental health. The story just needs a little work. So I rate this book 2 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you.
WARNING! MENTAL HEALTH TRIGGERS!
Coral is a mermaid and her father is the King. She has two sisters, Jordan and The Crown Princess. Emotions are for humans, not merpeople. The Crown Princess is struggling. Her father doesn’t seem to understand. Coral is the only one who shows any empathy towards The Crown Princess. She has a disease and Coral is showing signs of it as well. On land, Brooke is admitted into a mental health group therapy facility. No matter if those around her try to reach out she still feels alone. Then there is Merrick. He comes from a wealthy family, but they also are torn apart by mental illness. After is mom leaves, he goes to find her, and along the way meets a mesmerizing girl named Coral.
I am so torn. I really wanted to love this book. However, I want to give a HUGE thank you to the author. I love that she took a popular fairy tale and used it to bring awareness to mental health, depression, anxiety, and suicide. The fact that mental health is the sole focus of this book is amazing.
That being said. The book is hard to read. Not the themes. The points of view transitions of Coral, Brooke, and Merrick are so rough. There were many times where I thought I had to re-read the book because I was so confused. There are a few moments where I didn’t even know that the characters changed points of view. That brings me to the characters. We don’t ever get detail about the characters. They are all defined by their mental illness or how it has affected those around them. We don’t really get to know them outside of their internal struggles. This makes the story feel like it has a lack of depth.
This may seem silly. And it may just be me. But personally, I was not a fan of the description. Specifically in the Mer World. (Is that what we call it?) She talks about the seaweed bedsheets or eel gel. I know this is a young adult book, but this felt like something that would have been in a children’s book. Instead of immersing me in this world, it actually made me tune out. Plus, when Coral comes to the surface, she just seems to blend right in like it is second nature. It just didn’t seem believable.
Overall, I really applaud the author for trying to bring a story that we love and bring awareness to mental health. The story just needs a little work. So I rate this book 2 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you.
The Huntress by Kate Quinn has been sitting on my shelf for a year. I swear I tried to read it sooner. It just got lost in my TBR pile. Recently, I have not been into reading books about World War II. Now, it is an important time in history. I even did my senior project on Forest Camps in World War II in college. But the fiction genre has so many books involving World War II that they all start to blend together. Before I start my review, I must say, this book is absolutely captivating and it definitely stands out above the rest.
The book follows three storylines. There is 17-year-old Jordan, Russian pilot named Nina, and a Nazi Hunter named Ian. Jordan is growing up in the post-war era and aspires to be a photographer. However, her father, who does love her dearly wants her to take over his business. One day, her father introduces her to a woman who he intends to marry. Jordan thinks the woman is nice, but there is something that does not sit quite right with her. Then there is Nina, she grew up in Siberia and left her abusive father for a life in the skies. She becomes a part of the elite Russian bomber squad known as the Night Witches. Lastly, there is Ian. He is suffering PTSD as he was a British war correspondent in World War II. Now, he has turned into a Nazi Hunter. There is one woman who has escaped his grasp…a heartless woman named The Huntress.
This book is everything! It has complex characters and so much suspense. The characters are by far the star of the show. Jordan is strong and sure of everything that she wants in this world, but she is relatable because society expects something different from her in this time period. Nina is different, she doesn’t care what people think of her. She is the definition of fierce! She knows no fear and knows what is in her heart. Ian saw the horrors of war and wants all those who inflicted that horror to be brought to justice. What is even better is how the stories of Jordan, Nina, and Ian come together. The way the plot starts off as three different stories connect into one is absolutely brilliant!
There isn’t anything negative that I could say about this book. The pacing is constant and there is a point in every scene. The concept of finding justice is astounding in this novel–That all wrongs must be brought to justice and we cannot forget or else we are doomed to repeat it. The historical description is perfect and readers will feel completely immersed in the story. That being said I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I would really like to see this become a mini-series!
Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for a copy of this book!
The book follows three storylines. There is 17-year-old Jordan, Russian pilot named Nina, and a Nazi Hunter named Ian. Jordan is growing up in the post-war era and aspires to be a photographer. However, her father, who does love her dearly wants her to take over his business. One day, her father introduces her to a woman who he intends to marry. Jordan thinks the woman is nice, but there is something that does not sit quite right with her. Then there is Nina, she grew up in Siberia and left her abusive father for a life in the skies. She becomes a part of the elite Russian bomber squad known as the Night Witches. Lastly, there is Ian. He is suffering PTSD as he was a British war correspondent in World War II. Now, he has turned into a Nazi Hunter. There is one woman who has escaped his grasp…a heartless woman named The Huntress.
This book is everything! It has complex characters and so much suspense. The characters are by far the star of the show. Jordan is strong and sure of everything that she wants in this world, but she is relatable because society expects something different from her in this time period. Nina is different, she doesn’t care what people think of her. She is the definition of fierce! She knows no fear and knows what is in her heart. Ian saw the horrors of war and wants all those who inflicted that horror to be brought to justice. What is even better is how the stories of Jordan, Nina, and Ian come together. The way the plot starts off as three different stories connect into one is absolutely brilliant!
There isn’t anything negative that I could say about this book. The pacing is constant and there is a point in every scene. The concept of finding justice is astounding in this novel–That all wrongs must be brought to justice and we cannot forget or else we are doomed to repeat it. The historical description is perfect and readers will feel completely immersed in the story. That being said I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. I would really like to see this become a mini-series!
Thank you to Goodreads and the publisher for a copy of this book!
I have finally completed the All Souls Trilogy! The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness is the final book in this epic series. Again, this installment picks up right where book 2 left off. Matthew and Diana missed quite a bit while they were in Elizabethan London. Diana’s world is about to collapse, but she must stay strong. The Congregation is causing problems, making it more difficult to complete Ashmole 782. Everyone seems to be after the pages. In order to survive, Matthew and Diana must find the pages and discover what secrets Ashmole 782 holds. However, people from Matthew’s past will set out to destroy them forever.
I am still trying to gather my feelings about this book. There are so many questions that I feel, didn’t feel fully answered. I loved A Discovery of Witches. I did enjoy Shadow of Night, apart from some unnecessary details and Matthew. Matthew is back to his old self, thank god…he was insufferable in SON. Diana shows equal parts strength and doubt. One thing she is always certain of is Matthew, which can be frustrating at times. I feel that they only think about themselves and each other, rather than everyone else. I don’t want to bring up spoilers, but the questions brought up in ADOW never get answered. Well…one could argue that it gets answered but definitely not in a satisfying way.
The cast of characters are more intriguing than Matthew and Diana. Jeez, my favorite character is actually the house! It is sad when a house is more entertaining than the main characters. I wish there were more scenes with the house in this installment. As always, I love Gallowglass and Ysabeau. In fact, I would read a book about those two in a heartbeat.
One of my biggest issues is the dynamics in this world. They are separated into humans, witches, daemons, and vampires. Now, whenever Diana or Matthew tell a human what creature they are, the human does not seem to be shocked by it. Everyone just accepts it in a heartbeat, even though, the creatures have been hiding themselves from the humans since the beginning of time. It just didn’t seem realistic. Even though, I did enjoy Matthew’s humor about not sparkling as a vampire. It made me chuckle.
“No, I’m a vampire.” Matthew stepped forward, joining Chris under the projector’s light. “And before you ask, I can go outside during the day and my hair won’t catch fire in the sunlight. I’m Catholic and have a crucifix. When I sleep, which is not often, I prefer a bed to a coffin. If you try to stake me, the wood will likely splinter before it enters my skin.” He bared his teeth. “No fangs either. And one last thing: I do not, nor have I ever, sparkled.” Matthew’s face darkened to emphasize the point.”
THE BOOK OF LIFE
One of my favorite parts of this series is the detail. Yes, there is some detail that is totally unnecessary. But it is specifically the historical detail that makes this series so enchanting. I love the blend of science, history, and reality. Yes, I was overall unsatisfied with this book. But overall, I did enjoy the whole series. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
I am still trying to gather my feelings about this book. There are so many questions that I feel, didn’t feel fully answered. I loved A Discovery of Witches. I did enjoy Shadow of Night, apart from some unnecessary details and Matthew. Matthew is back to his old self, thank god…he was insufferable in SON. Diana shows equal parts strength and doubt. One thing she is always certain of is Matthew, which can be frustrating at times. I feel that they only think about themselves and each other, rather than everyone else. I don’t want to bring up spoilers, but the questions brought up in ADOW never get answered. Well…one could argue that it gets answered but definitely not in a satisfying way.
The cast of characters are more intriguing than Matthew and Diana. Jeez, my favorite character is actually the house! It is sad when a house is more entertaining than the main characters. I wish there were more scenes with the house in this installment. As always, I love Gallowglass and Ysabeau. In fact, I would read a book about those two in a heartbeat.
One of my biggest issues is the dynamics in this world. They are separated into humans, witches, daemons, and vampires. Now, whenever Diana or Matthew tell a human what creature they are, the human does not seem to be shocked by it. Everyone just accepts it in a heartbeat, even though, the creatures have been hiding themselves from the humans since the beginning of time. It just didn’t seem realistic. Even though, I did enjoy Matthew’s humor about not sparkling as a vampire. It made me chuckle.
“No, I’m a vampire.” Matthew stepped forward, joining Chris under the projector’s light. “And before you ask, I can go outside during the day and my hair won’t catch fire in the sunlight. I’m Catholic and have a crucifix. When I sleep, which is not often, I prefer a bed to a coffin. If you try to stake me, the wood will likely splinter before it enters my skin.” He bared his teeth. “No fangs either. And one last thing: I do not, nor have I ever, sparkled.” Matthew’s face darkened to emphasize the point.”
THE BOOK OF LIFE
One of my favorite parts of this series is the detail. Yes, there is some detail that is totally unnecessary. But it is specifically the historical detail that makes this series so enchanting. I love the blend of science, history, and reality. Yes, I was overall unsatisfied with this book. But overall, I did enjoy the whole series. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness is the 2nd book in the All Souls Trilogy. I fell in love with the first book, A Discovery of Witches so I couldn’t wait to read this one. This book takes place right after the first book ends, so there may be spoilers. WARNING! SPOILERS AHEAD!
Matthew and Diana time walk to the late 1500s, during the reign of Elizabeth I. Their goal is to find Ashmole 782 and also to find someone capable of teaching Diana more about her magic. They join a world that is familiar to Matthew but completely foreign to Diana. Danger lurks around every corner. There is jealousy, spies, political intrigue, and of course, magic. Matthew changes when they arrive. The past is full of heartbreak and old friends. Diana doesn’t know who she can trust. When she finds out her magic is even more rare than imagined, she knows she must get a handle on it before it is too late…
I really enjoyed this book. I will say that I enjoyed the first book more than this one though. This one is a lot slower, and tends to be a little tedious with their day to day schedules. There were some moments that were just dragging. Also, Matthew is kind of unbearable in this book. I know his history as a vampire makes his life more complex but I lost a little respect for him. He become possessive and jealous. He also assumed the role of how men treated women in this time period. Although, Diana was wonderful in this book. I love that she constantly stood up for herself, despite Matthew’s idiocy. I also loved her relationship with Matthew’s father, Phillipe.
Once again, it is the detail that really makes this series shine. This time instead of hints of historical characters and events, readers actually get to meet them. There is William Shakespeare, Elizabeth I, Christopher Marlowe, Sir Walter Raliegh, and so many more. There is also magic on every page and I just love this fantasy world Harkness has created. Overall, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I am so excited to start the third book then start the TV series!!
Matthew and Diana time walk to the late 1500s, during the reign of Elizabeth I. Their goal is to find Ashmole 782 and also to find someone capable of teaching Diana more about her magic. They join a world that is familiar to Matthew but completely foreign to Diana. Danger lurks around every corner. There is jealousy, spies, political intrigue, and of course, magic. Matthew changes when they arrive. The past is full of heartbreak and old friends. Diana doesn’t know who she can trust. When she finds out her magic is even more rare than imagined, she knows she must get a handle on it before it is too late…
I really enjoyed this book. I will say that I enjoyed the first book more than this one though. This one is a lot slower, and tends to be a little tedious with their day to day schedules. There were some moments that were just dragging. Also, Matthew is kind of unbearable in this book. I know his history as a vampire makes his life more complex but I lost a little respect for him. He become possessive and jealous. He also assumed the role of how men treated women in this time period. Although, Diana was wonderful in this book. I love that she constantly stood up for herself, despite Matthew’s idiocy. I also loved her relationship with Matthew’s father, Phillipe.
Once again, it is the detail that really makes this series shine. This time instead of hints of historical characters and events, readers actually get to meet them. There is William Shakespeare, Elizabeth I, Christopher Marlowe, Sir Walter Raliegh, and so many more. There is also magic on every page and I just love this fantasy world Harkness has created. Overall, I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. I am so excited to start the third book then start the TV series!!
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness is the first book in the All Souls Trilogy. The whole trilogy is on my Summer 2019 reading list. These books just added so much magic to my summer! Diana Bishop is a descendant from the Salem Bishops and Proctors. She is a witch, but after her parents death she turns her back on witchcraft. She is a professor at Oxford studying alchemy as a historian of science. When she examines a manuscript, she discovers that it is bewitched! This signals the arrival of other creatures…daemons, witches, and vampires. One vampire in particular, named Matthew, has been looking for this manuscript for more than a century. He realizes her life is in danger, but neither could guess just how powerful she is…
I feel that this book is so underrated! I have heard a few people talk about it, but it deserves more praise. I was so engrossed in this book. Let me start by saying that this book is extremely dense. It has so much detail. I read some reviews that said it was tedious. I actually enjoyed the detail. There was not a moment where I was bored. I read this book while I was on the treadmill because I could not put it down!
The characters are fantastic. There is Diana, who is both fierce and unsure of herself. She is strong, especially in the face of adversity. I love that she will stand up for herself to everyone…including Matthew. Matthew is over a thousand years old and with being a vampire, he isn’t used to Diana’s independent nature. However, their chemistry is fantastic!
I must say, that my absolute favorite part are the historical references. There are so many little historical details that are sprinkled throughout. The author also happens to be a historian of science. The scientific detail adds a layer of fascinating complexity to the story. There is also suspense, love, and even a bit of humor. If you enjoy magical realism or fantasy then this book is for you! I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
I feel that this book is so underrated! I have heard a few people talk about it, but it deserves more praise. I was so engrossed in this book. Let me start by saying that this book is extremely dense. It has so much detail. I read some reviews that said it was tedious. I actually enjoyed the detail. There was not a moment where I was bored. I read this book while I was on the treadmill because I could not put it down!
The characters are fantastic. There is Diana, who is both fierce and unsure of herself. She is strong, especially in the face of adversity. I love that she will stand up for herself to everyone…including Matthew. Matthew is over a thousand years old and with being a vampire, he isn’t used to Diana’s independent nature. However, their chemistry is fantastic!
I must say, that my absolute favorite part are the historical references. There are so many little historical details that are sprinkled throughout. The author also happens to be a historian of science. The scientific detail adds a layer of fascinating complexity to the story. There is also suspense, love, and even a bit of humor. If you enjoy magical realism or fantasy then this book is for you! I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars.
This book has been advertised as the “Chinese Lord of the Rings.” When I first got the email when this book was being translated I knew I had to read it. A Hero Born by Jin Yong, Translated by Anna Holmwood is the first book in the Legends of the Condor Heroes Book 1. This epic begins with brothers in arms, Skyfury Guo and Ironheart Yang and Song patriots. The novel takes place in China 1200 A.D. during the Jin-Song Wars. When Guo and Yang are murdered, their wives give birth to sons but are separated. Guo Jing grows up under Genghis Khan and is trained in martial arts. The rest of the book discusses his return to China to fulfill his destiny.
Right off the bat, I am going to tell you that I am rating this book 3 out of 5 stars. I don’t want anyone to think that this detracts from the book. The story is a Chinese classic. When I heard it was being translated, I knew it would be a huge undertaking. Many had said it couldn’t be done. I love the basics of the story, I just feel indifferent because I couldn’t connect with it. The characters are very dry and the fight scenes are not as epic as I anticipated. I cannot blame the translator, but it does feel like a lot of the substance of the story got lost in translation.
Now, I must say, I am so glad I read the story and would encourage all those who enjoy Chinese history and legends to do the same. This story is a classic and there is no doubt in my mind that this is an incredible story. The female characters are fantastic and I can’t wait to see more of them. I did love the detail in training and the concept of strength in honor. This is an epic that deserves so much praise, it is just unfortunate that we lose the spark in the translation.
Right off the bat, I am going to tell you that I am rating this book 3 out of 5 stars. I don’t want anyone to think that this detracts from the book. The story is a Chinese classic. When I heard it was being translated, I knew it would be a huge undertaking. Many had said it couldn’t be done. I love the basics of the story, I just feel indifferent because I couldn’t connect with it. The characters are very dry and the fight scenes are not as epic as I anticipated. I cannot blame the translator, but it does feel like a lot of the substance of the story got lost in translation.
Now, I must say, I am so glad I read the story and would encourage all those who enjoy Chinese history and legends to do the same. This story is a classic and there is no doubt in my mind that this is an incredible story. The female characters are fantastic and I can’t wait to see more of them. I did love the detail in training and the concept of strength in honor. This is an epic that deserves so much praise, it is just unfortunate that we lose the spark in the translation.
The Return of the Witch is the sequel to The Witch’s Daughter by Paula Brackston. This is the second book I read for the Page Promise Weekend Read-A-Thon.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
This book picks up five years after Elizabeth and her fellow witches imprisoned Gideon in the Summerlands. No one has ever escaped the Summerlands…until now. Somehow, Gideon has figured out how to escape. Not only that but he kidnaps Tegan and attempts to hide in different time periods. Elizabeth knows that Gideon has an evil plan in store for Tegan. So she is determined to rescue Tegan and defeat Gideon once and for all.
It was wonderful to be able to dive right into the next book immediately after finishing the first book. Even though, I felt that The Witch’s Daughter didn’t need a sequel. I love the way the first book ended. This book did get a little repetitive, which slowed the pace down a bit. However, the historical detail is everything in the story. The author has done a fantastic job researching different time periods and the women’s place within each era.
Once again, there is a phenomenal cast of characters! Elizabeth is absolutely powerful and I love that she brings such a strong female presence to the novel. However, I cannot exclude Tegan. She has developed so much since the first novel and now she is learning her place in the world and of the craft. I do love some of the newer characters, like Erasmus. He made me smile quite often. Overall, this book is just as magical as the first. Paula Brackston has become one of my favorite female authors!! I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.
SPOILERS AHEAD!
This book picks up five years after Elizabeth and her fellow witches imprisoned Gideon in the Summerlands. No one has ever escaped the Summerlands…until now. Somehow, Gideon has figured out how to escape. Not only that but he kidnaps Tegan and attempts to hide in different time periods. Elizabeth knows that Gideon has an evil plan in store for Tegan. So she is determined to rescue Tegan and defeat Gideon once and for all.
It was wonderful to be able to dive right into the next book immediately after finishing the first book. Even though, I felt that The Witch’s Daughter didn’t need a sequel. I love the way the first book ended. This book did get a little repetitive, which slowed the pace down a bit. However, the historical detail is everything in the story. The author has done a fantastic job researching different time periods and the women’s place within each era.
Once again, there is a phenomenal cast of characters! Elizabeth is absolutely powerful and I love that she brings such a strong female presence to the novel. However, I cannot exclude Tegan. She has developed so much since the first novel and now she is learning her place in the world and of the craft. I do love some of the newer characters, like Erasmus. He made me smile quite often. Overall, this book is just as magical as the first. Paula Brackston has become one of my favorite female authors!! I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars.
It is such a shame that my arc copy doesn’t have the cover for the book. Secrets of the Chocolate House by Paula Brackston has an absolutely GORGEOUS cover. It will dazzle once the book hits the shelves! I also adored the first book in this series called Little Shop of Found Things, so I was so excited to read this one.
SPOILERS!
Xanthe starts to return back to her routine with her mother in her own time. Her adventures took her to back to the 17th Century in the first book where she met Samuel. Now, she must focus on her antique shop and singing at a local pub. Items still speak to her and she is taken by surprise when an old copper chocolate pot shows her a vision of Samuel in danger. She knows she must help him, but traveling through time isn’t always so easy. She becomes familiar with other Time Spinners. One who would use his abilities for selfish reasons and happens to punish those around him. She must be able to save Samuel, without being discovered so she can return to her own time. Can it be done? Or will she be discovered and tried as a witch?
This book just exudes charm and magic. I can’t express how much I love this series. Xanthe captures readers with her spunk and wit. She is the type of person who everyone wants to be friends with. I love how the author really creates her inner conflict as she tries to discover who she is and where she wants to go in life. When her ex pops back into her life it just shows how easy it could be to fall back into old habits if one isn’t strong enough. My favorite character in this book has to be Harley, the pub owner. He is hilarious, protective, and supportive. I love how she can open up to him and he does not show any judgment. He definitely embodies what it means to be a true friend.
Paula Brackston is a master with detail. Like the cover, her writing is absolutely captivating. She leaves no stone unturned when it comes to historical detail which makes my history lovers heart happy! I really recommend this read for those who love historical fiction, romance, and time travel. Overall, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. This book will be released on October 22nd. Thank you, NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Paula Brackston for a copy of this book!
SPOILERS!
Xanthe starts to return back to her routine with her mother in her own time. Her adventures took her to back to the 17th Century in the first book where she met Samuel. Now, she must focus on her antique shop and singing at a local pub. Items still speak to her and she is taken by surprise when an old copper chocolate pot shows her a vision of Samuel in danger. She knows she must help him, but traveling through time isn’t always so easy. She becomes familiar with other Time Spinners. One who would use his abilities for selfish reasons and happens to punish those around him. She must be able to save Samuel, without being discovered so she can return to her own time. Can it be done? Or will she be discovered and tried as a witch?
This book just exudes charm and magic. I can’t express how much I love this series. Xanthe captures readers with her spunk and wit. She is the type of person who everyone wants to be friends with. I love how the author really creates her inner conflict as she tries to discover who she is and where she wants to go in life. When her ex pops back into her life it just shows how easy it could be to fall back into old habits if one isn’t strong enough. My favorite character in this book has to be Harley, the pub owner. He is hilarious, protective, and supportive. I love how she can open up to him and he does not show any judgment. He definitely embodies what it means to be a true friend.
Paula Brackston is a master with detail. Like the cover, her writing is absolutely captivating. She leaves no stone unturned when it comes to historical detail which makes my history lovers heart happy! I really recommend this read for those who love historical fiction, romance, and time travel. Overall, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. This book will be released on October 22nd. Thank you, NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Paula Brackston for a copy of this book!