amelianicholebooks's reviews
442 reviews

Claus: Legend of the Fat Man by Tony Bertauski

5.0

I got this book in an anthology of Twisted Fairytales. I had no idea what I was reading, nor what I was getting into. If you would have told me this novel was about Santa Claus I might have stayed away. I am glad I didn't know, because origins aside, this is an awesome family friendly novel with geninuely good worldbuilding.

The Matsumoto by Sarah K.L. Wilson

4.0

Action packed finish the the Matsumoto series. Vera really grew into her own in this one. The end surprised me!

The Splitting by Sarah K.L. Wilson

5.0

The best book in the series. Takes the science fiction dystopia edge and blasts straight into science fantasy. Rhinric forever.

The Ruby Isles by Sarah K.L. Wilson

adventurous hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

Review #2: Re-reading a few of the Dragon School books to catch up on what I have forgotten since I first started the series. Ruby Isles is such a great episode I decided to start my re-reading there. 

Raolcan and Amel are tied for being my favorite characters. I think their banter is delightful. I loved how Amel's headstrong sense of friendship, honor, and loyalty were put to the test in this episode. 

When Amel's friend Savette is kidnapped, everyone acts like it is business as usual. Students shouldn't get involved with dragon rider business, and a cripple besides. 

Amel and Raolcan will have none of that and set off on a journey that could lead them to being kicked out of Dragon School. 

Amel gains new allies and makes new enemies in this episode. I liked the setting and would have liked to see more of Vanika. 

Review #1: I am enjoying getting to see more of the Dragon School world. I like how Sarah is able take the usual trope of hero gets fast tracked through school and turn it on its head. She lets the characters shine, and not every one gets along, and I love it!

Dusk Covenant by Sarah K.L. Wilson

adventurous fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

Review #2: This episode feels so much longer than the other two I've read because so much happens!

Amel, Raolcan and Hubric make a great team as my trio of favorite characters. Savette and the Dark Prince get some good character development in this episode. 

Tasked with her first message (Amel joined the messenger dragons), Amel must make the choice again between duty and personal loyalty. Hubric allowed her to come to her own conclusions, sharing his wisdom along the way. I like the crutch he bought or had made for her.  

From being ambushed at an inn by fearful refuguees to investigating a rumor of a dark creature, this episode packs a punch.

I would have loved to see more of them playing cards instead of just a reference, but I am sure I will see more of it later.

There was a heartbreaking scene that I think will affect Amel for a long time to come.

Review #1: This one took a few unexpected turns and I relished them. I find myself cheering on Amel and her dragon, wishing and hoping they can save the day.

The Dark Prince by Sarah K.L. Wilson

5.0

The series gets better and more action packed as it goes on! My favorite scene is with the Dark Prince and the dragons first meet. Yes, roast him, dragon. ;)

Initiate by Sarah K.L. Wilson

5.0

I love how each book has a plot arch that is actually resolved before the end of the book. Not all short novella series do this and it is incredibly satisfying. I must warn you like potato chips, one is never enough. ;)

Sworn by Sarah K.L. Wilson

adventurous fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot

5.0

Review #2: Ok you know how I said that Raolcan and Amel were tied for my favorite character? There is a new contender and that is Hubric Duneshifter. I find him to be a delightful character the embodies a strict paternal figure, but in the best possible way that Amel really needs. I really, really don't want him to die, but he is her mentor so... D:

Amel has gotten tangled up in something bigger than just saving her friend and she doesn't know who she can trust... other than her dragon Raolcan (he would agree with that assessment).

Hubric comes in as something of a complicated character, being tangled up in a secret society, but I think he is exactly the kind of mentor that can help Amel to become the heroine that she knows she can be. 

The Dark Prince starts to become a more complex character in this episode and I enjoyed the growth as you learned more about who he is.

I love how Amel is shown to be what would usually be the side character in the Chosen One's story. Vague, but because of spoilers.

I am curious by the Dominar's reaction to Amel whether that had more significance or was merely what he said it was.

I would have liked for Amel to do a bit more talking in the scene where Hubric questioned her, she felt a bit passive, but it also showed an ability that I didn't know Dragon Riders had, which I have a feeling will come in handy later. 

Review #1: I almost lost sleep over this book being forced to stop reading it in the middle. Honestly this book series is so good.

The Land That Time Forgot by Edgar Rice Burroughs

4.0

Such a Secret Place by Cortney Pearson

5.0

I enjoyed reading this book. It is refreshing to have a heroine who starts at zero and has to fight for every ounce of advantage she can. There is a lot of back story here, but it is revealed layer by layer in little bite-size pieces as the plot continues. It might seem like it starts slow, but everything that happens, in the beginning, sets up the rest of the story on solid foundations.

A fully imagined world with a unique magic system. If you like YA Dystopic Fantasy, you'll enjoy this book. I have the next two books on my TBR list!