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arielthebookgargoyle's Reviews (208)
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
The story follows Kol and Ana a few investigations after their first grand adventure in the first book. They are pretty settled into their roles when Kol begins to wonder if he is making an impact looking for perpetrators of crimes after the fact rather than being on the front lines in defense from the leviathans. Saving people before they are dead.
The story keeps in line with the first book. Kol and Ana having been introduced and established. Following a odd murder that leads to a bigger picture.
While I didn't find the intro crime committed as grand and spectacular as in the first book, it fit for something the duo would investigate.
This time they are in a kingdom called Yarrowdale, assisted by the sight and smell augmented Malo. Malo was smart in her own right. Street savy. She was referred to as a hound dog a few times, which I found to be derogatory. She became much more important to Kol over the use of her nose. Anyway, she informs him of the important dignitary that was mangled..
all at a tumultuous moment in the annexing of Yarrow to the imperial Empire. This mixing political turmoil in with the mysterious murder.
As I said, I found the crime to be underwhelming. More interested in the magics described to preserve evidence. Then just confounded at all the dangerous intricacies of the set up the Empire has in Yarrow. It seemed unnecessary. Felt the underlying message for Kol to learn was more important than the crazy going on around him. Best parts were the little reveals about Ana.
So, while book one felt more fantastical, this one, more harrowing and character involved.
The story keeps in line with the first book. Kol and Ana having been introduced and established. Following a odd murder that leads to a bigger picture.
While I didn't find the intro crime committed as grand and spectacular as in the first book, it fit for something the duo would investigate.
This time they are in a kingdom called Yarrowdale, assisted by the sight and smell augmented Malo. Malo was smart in her own right. Street savy. She was referred to as a hound dog a few times, which I found to be derogatory. She became much more important to Kol over the use of her nose. Anyway, she informs him of the important dignitary that was mangled..
all at a tumultuous moment in the annexing of Yarrow to the imperial Empire. This mixing political turmoil in with the mysterious murder.
As I said, I found the crime to be underwhelming. More interested in the magics described to preserve evidence. Then just confounded at all the dangerous intricacies of the set up the Empire has in Yarrow. It seemed unnecessary. Felt the underlying message for Kol to learn was more important than the crazy going on around him. Best parts were the little reveals about Ana.
So, while book one felt more fantastical, this one, more harrowing and character involved.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
The first in this series definitely has to be read to understand this one. Livira and Evar, and the mechanics of how the library works make a lot more sense.
There is a lot of slow pacing and build up. Same as the first. For me, that worked better, having the knowledge given in the previous story. Then I struggled to sit through and connect with it. Here, wasn't a problem. I found the second book to be better than the first.
There are two main factions the book follows and switches perspective between. Celcha, a ganar, whom I believe is earlier in tine, and Arpix (human) and Evar (canith) who are 4 years beyond the last events of the end of the first book.
Celcha, despite my imagination never quite pinning down what she looked like, I liked the most. Her story is troubled, her rationale very understandable yet she was always still kind, for the most part. I felt for her more and more as her story progressed.
Arpix has done some growth since the last. Forced to be out of the library and in charge of some of his companions help him realize there are more important things than being right all the time. He is more compromising and willing to try new things. Evar joins with him in the search for Livira.
The story explores many different themes in the guise of adventure. Good vs Evil, who is responsible for atrocities committed amongst each other, societal collapse, love not only chosen, but between makeshift families and what that means. It is a very layered, complex story if you want it to be.
For a second, perfect. Continued from the first, and matched its tone, but had a story of its own to tell. Revealed more about the library as well. Then it set up for a sequel.
There is a lot of slow pacing and build up. Same as the first. For me, that worked better, having the knowledge given in the previous story. Then I struggled to sit through and connect with it. Here, wasn't a problem. I found the second book to be better than the first.
There are two main factions the book follows and switches perspective between. Celcha, a ganar, whom I believe is earlier in tine, and Arpix (human) and Evar (canith) who are 4 years beyond the last events of the end of the first book.
Celcha, despite my imagination never quite pinning down what she looked like, I liked the most. Her story is troubled, her rationale very understandable yet she was always still kind, for the most part. I felt for her more and more as her story progressed.
Arpix has done some growth since the last. Forced to be out of the library and in charge of some of his companions help him realize there are more important things than being right all the time. He is more compromising and willing to try new things. Evar joins with him in the search for Livira.
The story explores many different themes in the guise of adventure. Good vs Evil, who is responsible for atrocities committed amongst each other, societal collapse, love not only chosen, but between makeshift families and what that means. It is a very layered, complex story if you want it to be.
For a second, perfect. Continued from the first, and matched its tone, but had a story of its own to tell. Revealed more about the library as well. Then it set up for a sequel.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Grief
Moderate: Slavery, Cannibalism
Minor: Racism, Blood, Medical trauma, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, War, Injury/Injury detail, Classism
adventurous
dark
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
"Six Wild Crowns" was not what I expected. From the summary and intro, it sounded like it would be an Anne Boleyn retelling with maybe some magic and dragons. While it uses her and the Tudor reign as its foundation, it is a completely different beast.
To begin, King Henry is in a polygamist relationship. Married to 6 queens who each rule a different section of the land. Their placement and connection to their castles lending to a mystical wall that protects Elben and shields the king. The queens collectively adding to the strength of that protection, however doesn't mean individually they like each other.
It does have political intrigue that happens between the queens and Henry's mistresses, but all while congruently ruling.
The story jumps right to Boleyn marrying into Henry's consortium of ladies. The writing initially relying on her personality already being known by the reader by what is historically known about Anne. She made more sense as time went on, as more time is spent with her. Henry I found to be bullish. Brash and simply dull. I instantly didn't like him. A lady in waiting who is on her monthly cycle is intially given more character. Although I was turned off some by the details of her situation, she had quite a dilemma. A lot of that writing is like that, expained the mundane... what is usually on a woman's mind or what she's coping with that isn't normally talked about. It is definitely a from a woman's perspective, with duel point of view, switching from Boleyn and Seymour, her lady, chapter to chapter.
The story was a slower pacing, taking its time with the details and establishing the situation and world's magic. Then creating the tension between the ladies and king. Then revealing consequences leading to the conclusion.
The ending was decent. Left open which I don't like, but had a lot of emotional payout. Good and bad. I didn't like or agree with the characters at all times, but I did enjoy where the story went overall. Ultimately, it was about what people will sacrifice for love.
I could say more, but won't to keep spoilers out of my review. What I will point out however, is the story does lean into some more modern ideas. A person who goes by they, LGBTQ couples or multi person relationships. A main protagonist is bi. I also feel obligated to say there is an abortion. If any of these are triggers, this isn't the story for you.
To begin, King Henry is in a polygamist relationship. Married to 6 queens who each rule a different section of the land. Their placement and connection to their castles lending to a mystical wall that protects Elben and shields the king. The queens collectively adding to the strength of that protection, however doesn't mean individually they like each other.
It does have political intrigue that happens between the queens and Henry's mistresses, but all while congruently ruling.
The story jumps right to Boleyn marrying into Henry's consortium of ladies. The writing initially relying on her personality already being known by the reader by what is historically known about Anne. She made more sense as time went on, as more time is spent with her. Henry I found to be bullish. Brash and simply dull. I instantly didn't like him. A lady in waiting who is on her monthly cycle is intially given more character. Although I was turned off some by the details of her situation, she had quite a dilemma. A lot of that writing is like that, expained the mundane... what is usually on a woman's mind or what she's coping with that isn't normally talked about. It is definitely a from a woman's perspective, with duel point of view, switching from Boleyn and Seymour, her lady, chapter to chapter.
The story was a slower pacing, taking its time with the details and establishing the situation and world's magic. Then creating the tension between the ladies and king. Then revealing consequences leading to the conclusion.
The ending was decent. Left open which I don't like, but had a lot of emotional payout. Good and bad. I didn't like or agree with the characters at all times, but I did enjoy where the story went overall. Ultimately, it was about what people will sacrifice for love.
I could say more, but won't to keep spoilers out of my review. What I will point out however, is the story does lean into some more modern ideas. A person who goes by they, LGBTQ couples or multi person relationships. A main protagonist is bi. I also feel obligated to say there is an abortion. If any of these are triggers, this isn't the story for you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Blood, Pregnancy, Gaslighting
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Misogyny, Sexism, Sexual content, Suicidal thoughts, Toxic relationship, Violence, Abortion, Sexual harassment
Minor: Child death, Chronic illness, Confinement, Infertility, Death of parent, War
adventurous
emotional
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Sarn; a land of death and rot wrapped all up in hope.
The whole story had a glossy, magestical vibe on the surface with an underpinning of gloom. Magics are fading since the last major war. Changing the dynamic of the world, leaving power vacuums that the right sort aren't necessarily jumping at the chance to fill. This makes it hard to sum it up. It had a little of a lot of things. Legends, ancient landscapes, mystical beings, but also a push for progress and release of the knowledge of what was.
It was very plot driven, teaching about the past, as it does events happening that push the characters to react. It slowly introduced each element, with very detailed description and emotional narrative. I caught a lot of the twists, thanks to the slow pacing, but still enjoyed where it all led to.
The whole story had a glossy, magestical vibe on the surface with an underpinning of gloom. Magics are fading since the last major war. Changing the dynamic of the world, leaving power vacuums that the right sort aren't necessarily jumping at the chance to fill. This makes it hard to sum it up. It had a little of a lot of things. Legends, ancient landscapes, mystical beings, but also a push for progress and release of the knowledge of what was.
It was very plot driven, teaching about the past, as it does events happening that push the characters to react. It slowly introduced each element, with very detailed description and emotional narrative. I caught a lot of the twists, thanks to the slow pacing, but still enjoyed where it all led to.
adventurous
hopeful
mysterious
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I read this book for a purpose. It was recommended to my daughter who isn't very engaged in reading. It was written for her age range, entering middle school, keeping in mind that the step before usually features pictures. It is a mix of illustrations with a more mature, yet simple chapter book nestled between. She took her time reading it to me, then I read on my own.
For someone learning to improve their reading, this book was perfect. It has the visual to go with the words, and also some subtle symbology that makes it great for discussion.
From a literary standpoint, if you discount the illustrations, the story was somewhat weak. In several areas it leaned heavily on the fact the illustrations where there, so it wasn't very descriptive. The plot was kept very simple, so it was predictable. For an older audience, it may not be as captivating.
The story, in general, was sweet. It began with a little boy, who had experienced tragedy hiding in the bowels of a train station. He is scared of change, not very confident. He finds an unassuming relationship with a grumpy old man that changes his trajectory to better places. Learning first assumptions aren't always correct and he isn't the only one with secrets.
It felt written by a mindset that is a dreamer. Emphasizing how imagination leds to creation, particularly with the new mediums (unexperienced or newly developed), and how that inspires others.
I very much enjoyed the step up from picture books.. simple yet effective.. idea of using visuals for possibly struggling readers who may not be ready for books that are words only, or that learn better when the story is visualized for them. I liked the intentions behind the story, using a moment in history to spur an imaginary character who, I feel, may have represented a piece of the author. That was well done. I wish there were more books out there like this one, because although my daughter didn't like the boy, and thought the majority of characters were wrong in most of their behaviors, she discussed and engaged with the story more efficiently than when a story is only words.
For someone learning to improve their reading, this book was perfect. It has the visual to go with the words, and also some subtle symbology that makes it great for discussion.
From a literary standpoint, if you discount the illustrations, the story was somewhat weak. In several areas it leaned heavily on the fact the illustrations where there, so it wasn't very descriptive. The plot was kept very simple, so it was predictable. For an older audience, it may not be as captivating.
The story, in general, was sweet. It began with a little boy, who had experienced tragedy hiding in the bowels of a train station. He is scared of change, not very confident. He finds an unassuming relationship with a grumpy old man that changes his trajectory to better places. Learning first assumptions aren't always correct and he isn't the only one with secrets.
It felt written by a mindset that is a dreamer. Emphasizing how imagination leds to creation, particularly with the new mediums (unexperienced or newly developed), and how that inspires others.
I very much enjoyed the step up from picture books.. simple yet effective.. idea of using visuals for possibly struggling readers who may not be ready for books that are words only, or that learn better when the story is visualized for them. I liked the intentions behind the story, using a moment in history to spur an imaginary character who, I feel, may have represented a piece of the author. That was well done. I wish there were more books out there like this one, because although my daughter didn't like the boy, and thought the majority of characters were wrong in most of their behaviors, she discussed and engaged with the story more efficiently than when a story is only words.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Read The Dragon of The Ice as an ARC provided by the author. Having read this way, I would like to state that my review is my own opinions and done on my own accord on my own time.
Very much a treasure. The series was a hidden treasure at first with The Daughter of The Ice. Yay for a twisted Elsa! As "her" influence expanded, the stories came more into their own. It is so much more than a twisted fairy tale. Now it is a full blown gem that proudly sits on my read list. Each new character and story adding more complications yet also unexpected silver linings. Pressure making and breaking heroes and foes. Making each its own kind of dark, and realistic but not without hope. A reflection of how the real world can feel at times.
The previous in the series are needed for context. Otherwise there would be many bits that seem random or out of nowhere. No Elsa, only her creations and champions. This is a continuation of what she started. I found "The Dragon of The Ice" to be much more introspective than others of the past as it questioned the heroes' determination. There is only ice, it is winning. So, why fight? Why does what you do matter in the great scheme of things when winter is stronger? Those that matter do find their causes, and they are worthy causes indeed, I felt. Love conquers all… right? The "evil" Eregar even questions his purpose. They deserve it, as much as they fight him back. All his dastardly deeds now dependent on the headstrong dragon he has given freedom to and unleashed upon The Golden City.
The Dragon is a formidable foe. Most impressive for a creation of The Ice and Night's Rage. Freezing everything he sees. I personally can't pass up a dragon. I love them and almost feel bad he needs defeated.
I have come to love the characters of this series. Good or bad, even in between, all have had purpose or some moral design they question. This has made them feel real to me. They didn't disappoint here. I resonated really well with Johan and Ericka. Their hearts are weary, but the world needs them. Who are they to say no?
I definitely couldn't say no to reading their plight. I wasn't disappointed. Even with elements that felt familiar in other fantasy tales, The Dragon was its own and I couldn't help but worry and wonder for who would show up and survive. I loved the story for all it was and what it meant as it pulled me in while I read.
Highly recommend the whole series.
Very much a treasure. The series was a hidden treasure at first with The Daughter of The Ice. Yay for a twisted Elsa! As "her" influence expanded, the stories came more into their own. It is so much more than a twisted fairy tale. Now it is a full blown gem that proudly sits on my read list. Each new character and story adding more complications yet also unexpected silver linings. Pressure making and breaking heroes and foes. Making each its own kind of dark, and realistic but not without hope. A reflection of how the real world can feel at times.
The previous in the series are needed for context. Otherwise there would be many bits that seem random or out of nowhere. No Elsa, only her creations and champions. This is a continuation of what she started. I found "The Dragon of The Ice" to be much more introspective than others of the past as it questioned the heroes' determination. There is only ice, it is winning. So, why fight? Why does what you do matter in the great scheme of things when winter is stronger? Those that matter do find their causes, and they are worthy causes indeed, I felt. Love conquers all… right? The "evil" Eregar even questions his purpose. They deserve it, as much as they fight him back. All his dastardly deeds now dependent on the headstrong dragon he has given freedom to and unleashed upon The Golden City.
The Dragon is a formidable foe. Most impressive for a creation of The Ice and Night's Rage. Freezing everything he sees. I personally can't pass up a dragon. I love them and almost feel bad he needs defeated.
I have come to love the characters of this series. Good or bad, even in between, all have had purpose or some moral design they question. This has made them feel real to me. They didn't disappoint here. I resonated really well with Johan and Ericka. Their hearts are weary, but the world needs them. Who are they to say no?
I definitely couldn't say no to reading their plight. I wasn't disappointed. Even with elements that felt familiar in other fantasy tales, The Dragon was its own and I couldn't help but worry and wonder for who would show up and survive. I loved the story for all it was and what it meant as it pulled me in while I read.
Highly recommend the whole series.
adventurous
hopeful
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
An accumulation of events that leads to tense action near the end.
Following Freya, after her fight with and release from her duty in C6 in the first book, she is trying to lead a simple life outside the city when Libra pulls her back in. The C6 government is dead set on destroying the, what they consider rogue, AI... but not for the reasons Freya initially thinks. Having to put her faith in former enemies, she uncovers twisted plots from all sides that have her pulled in many directions.
The story starts out slow. Setting the scene for Freya's recovery from her mind wipe. She's found herself at peace amongst fellow introverts in the outskirt, wilderness of civilization. Putting her at odds with the social mandates of C6. Hesitant to return, still, she keeps a close eye in those she cares about. Allowing her to quickly regain contact when Libra pushes her back in.
Between book 1 and 2, I felt Freya gained some confidence which allowed her to tackle her mission in a more calm, logical direction. Less reactive, more planned out. Showing change from the DreadMother she was true to. This thoughtfulness lends well to the decisions she is left with by the end of this story. Her friend Trace more volatile, jumping to anger at how he has been treated by C6. They have switched positions from the first story, but it all makes sense, given their experiences. Other characters pulled in help give both more depth and show a different side to each the civilizations Freya is trying to preserve. It isn't all black and white and shouldn't be given the heavy hand she grew up being told was necessary.
This was a fun story to read. I could tell a lot of thought and care went into the characters and making sense of the knowledge they had. There was plenty of action with underlying mystery and espionage. Plenty of consequences and risk. Felt complete although being left open at the end for the next story. It is unclear the direction Freya will go, but wherever she does, she will consider as many options as possible.
Following Freya, after her fight with and release from her duty in C6 in the first book, she is trying to lead a simple life outside the city when Libra pulls her back in. The C6 government is dead set on destroying the, what they consider rogue, AI... but not for the reasons Freya initially thinks. Having to put her faith in former enemies, she uncovers twisted plots from all sides that have her pulled in many directions.
The story starts out slow. Setting the scene for Freya's recovery from her mind wipe. She's found herself at peace amongst fellow introverts in the outskirt, wilderness of civilization. Putting her at odds with the social mandates of C6. Hesitant to return, still, she keeps a close eye in those she cares about. Allowing her to quickly regain contact when Libra pushes her back in.
Between book 1 and 2, I felt Freya gained some confidence which allowed her to tackle her mission in a more calm, logical direction. Less reactive, more planned out. Showing change from the DreadMother she was true to. This thoughtfulness lends well to the decisions she is left with by the end of this story. Her friend Trace more volatile, jumping to anger at how he has been treated by C6. They have switched positions from the first story, but it all makes sense, given their experiences. Other characters pulled in help give both more depth and show a different side to each the civilizations Freya is trying to preserve. It isn't all black and white and shouldn't be given the heavy hand she grew up being told was necessary.
This was a fun story to read. I could tell a lot of thought and care went into the characters and making sense of the knowledge they had. There was plenty of action with underlying mystery and espionage. Plenty of consequences and risk. Felt complete although being left open at the end for the next story. It is unclear the direction Freya will go, but wherever she does, she will consider as many options as possible.
adventurous
challenging
emotional
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
<b>This is a review of the story Moniquill told: </b>
I am going to give <i>To Shape A Dragon’s Breath</i> by Moniquill Blackgoose a tentative 3. I believe it is higher, but not quite a 4 for a few key reasons. I will, of course, explain this.
<i>+Here there be dragons</i>
The story begins with a dragon skipping across the water, capturing the imagination and then disappearing into the mist. How could I not love the mysticism with this? As the story expands, it romanticized dragons within the Masaquapag community. I am not certain if dragons truly appear in Native American myths, but as it was written, it fit and made sense. Beautiful and honorable. Kasaqua is then born. A creature of legend. Unique in that she's the first know in a long time of her breed. Even those in control have no clue what she is capable of. She then chooses Anequs to bond to.
<i>+The protagonists were awesome.</i>
I loved the precocious nature of Anequs, the story's narrator and main protagonist. She is the right mix of curious, bold, yet cautious. Her being pegged by other characters as clever was fitting, not just wishful thinking on the author's part.
Those characters meant to play alongside her were just as interesting while also not always agreeing with Anequs. Giving her some pause and internal conflict. Some examples, her bigger brother who she thinks she will never agree with, until she sees his world. A roommate who is just as culturally shocked- in reverse to Anequs- who hesitates to speak plainly, in fear of her social status. Someone of the same descent that was raised differently that puts her at odds. A neodivergent friend that didn't fit in until experiencing the kindness of Anequs. Plus more. The story is not lacking for characters that Anequs adores.
I hate to use the word "diverse," but the cast is, in culture, and ways of thought.
<i>-Horribly motivated antagonists.</i>
The story plays up the colonization theme. Anequs is different, so she must be stopped. If she isn't, her village must be razed so her people don't get "ideas" too. This was a decent starting motivation. She had boys that bullied her, teachers who couldn't stand her, government officials that despised her. Over time, I couldn't see what would be gained from such vitriol towards such a young person. Especially when her bright personality and kindness came to light. She was the least judemental. I felt like their goal was to hate for the sake of hating, on repeat. Nothing Anequs ever does justifies the means. Which, did mirror the political climate of the time the story is set, but it felt directionless.
<i>+The world building is superb.</i>
Anequs is native to the Masquapaug Islands. While learning about her culture, her life, and what dragons mean to her people, I was enthralled with the story.
When she is compelled to enter the Anglish world, the culture shock was really apparent. The author used a mix of real world with make-believe. Giving a familiar, yet off feeling. The created mythology was just as helter skelter. Beautifully done, and written well, for the most part.
<i>-Some world building was unnecessarily complicated.</i>
Some of the story becomes convoluted. The issues flare mainly when Anequs started classes. They felt like lectures. Info dumps, that I personally won't remember. The story became somewhat of a slog. She felt like Harry Potter facing different faces of Snape with how her professors were written. I felt stuck in class with Anequs, learning unnecessary information. Particularly terms to replace concepts that easily have real world components. Important for where the author was going with her magic system through the dragon's breath. My hurdle of matching to what I could relate to, to understand better, made me not enjoy the story as much. Too much work for my <i>wee</i> brain.
Anequs' classes were then replaced with social events that were almost just as boring minus the parts important to the main arch. Anxiety of the event, stressing Anequs is different so why should she participate. Her worried about her dresses. Explaining using the favorability of people to her advantage. It became political. Drawing away from the dragons.
<i>-The dragons pushed to the background.</i>
Oversized pets, rather than characters of their own.
A large portion focused away from the characters felt unnecessary and like it could be condensed for a better flow.
<i>-The ending was lackluster.</i>
All the little problems Anequs experienced, coalesce until they "can't" be ignored, with a ratherly important event. Sad, but about time. Problem is, there was only about 30 pages left. Not much for the slow pacing the rest of the story has set. Convenience then becomes priority to finish the plot. It just didn't feel right. Not worthy of the care that was taken into getting Anequs to that point.
I just feel conflicted. I liked parts, but disliked other parts. The beginning felt grand, the middle too long, the end too short. I wanted Anequs to succeed, but didn't see the motivation for those she was to fight. Loved the layering on real world, but couldn't be patient with how it was explained at times.
This one is for sure one I would say don't listen to me, read for yourself to form your own opinion. I'm too confused to seriously listen to when it comes to recommending this one because all put together, it was good, yet not.
I am going to give <i>To Shape A Dragon’s Breath</i> by Moniquill Blackgoose a tentative 3. I believe it is higher, but not quite a 4 for a few key reasons. I will, of course, explain this.
<i>+Here there be dragons</i>
The story begins with a dragon skipping across the water, capturing the imagination and then disappearing into the mist. How could I not love the mysticism with this? As the story expands, it romanticized dragons within the Masaquapag community. I am not certain if dragons truly appear in Native American myths, but as it was written, it fit and made sense. Beautiful and honorable. Kasaqua is then born. A creature of legend. Unique in that she's the first know in a long time of her breed. Even those in control have no clue what she is capable of. She then chooses Anequs to bond to.
<i>+The protagonists were awesome.</i>
I loved the precocious nature of Anequs, the story's narrator and main protagonist. She is the right mix of curious, bold, yet cautious. Her being pegged by other characters as clever was fitting, not just wishful thinking on the author's part.
Those characters meant to play alongside her were just as interesting while also not always agreeing with Anequs. Giving her some pause and internal conflict. Some examples, her bigger brother who she thinks she will never agree with, until she sees his world. A roommate who is just as culturally shocked- in reverse to Anequs- who hesitates to speak plainly, in fear of her social status. Someone of the same descent that was raised differently that puts her at odds. A neodivergent friend that didn't fit in until experiencing the kindness of Anequs. Plus more. The story is not lacking for characters that Anequs adores.
I hate to use the word "diverse," but the cast is, in culture, and ways of thought.
<i>-Horribly motivated antagonists.</i>
The story plays up the colonization theme. Anequs is different, so she must be stopped. If she isn't, her village must be razed so her people don't get "ideas" too. This was a decent starting motivation. She had boys that bullied her, teachers who couldn't stand her, government officials that despised her. Over time, I couldn't see what would be gained from such vitriol towards such a young person. Especially when her bright personality and kindness came to light. She was the least judemental. I felt like their goal was to hate for the sake of hating, on repeat. Nothing Anequs ever does justifies the means. Which, did mirror the political climate of the time the story is set, but it felt directionless.
<i>+The world building is superb.</i>
Anequs is native to the Masquapaug Islands. While learning about her culture, her life, and what dragons mean to her people, I was enthralled with the story.
When she is compelled to enter the Anglish world, the culture shock was really apparent. The author used a mix of real world with make-believe. Giving a familiar, yet off feeling. The created mythology was just as helter skelter. Beautifully done, and written well, for the most part.
<i>-Some world building was unnecessarily complicated.</i>
Some of the story becomes convoluted. The issues flare mainly when Anequs started classes. They felt like lectures. Info dumps, that I personally won't remember. The story became somewhat of a slog. She felt like Harry Potter facing different faces of Snape with how her professors were written. I felt stuck in class with Anequs, learning unnecessary information. Particularly terms to replace concepts that easily have real world components. Important for where the author was going with her magic system through the dragon's breath. My hurdle of matching to what I could relate to, to understand better, made me not enjoy the story as much. Too much work for my <i>wee</i> brain.
Anequs' classes were then replaced with social events that were almost just as boring minus the parts important to the main arch. Anxiety of the event, stressing Anequs is different so why should she participate. Her worried about her dresses. Explaining using the favorability of people to her advantage. It became political. Drawing away from the dragons.
<i>-The dragons pushed to the background.</i>
Oversized pets, rather than characters of their own.
A large portion focused away from the characters felt unnecessary and like it could be condensed for a better flow.
<i>-The ending was lackluster.</i>
All the little problems Anequs experienced, coalesce until they "can't" be ignored, with a ratherly important event. Sad, but about time. Problem is, there was only about 30 pages left. Not much for the slow pacing the rest of the story has set. Convenience then becomes priority to finish the plot. It just didn't feel right. Not worthy of the care that was taken into getting Anequs to that point.
I just feel conflicted. I liked parts, but disliked other parts. The beginning felt grand, the middle too long, the end too short. I wanted Anequs to succeed, but didn't see the motivation for those she was to fight. Loved the layering on real world, but couldn't be patient with how it was explained at times.
This one is for sure one I would say don't listen to me, read for yourself to form your own opinion. I'm too confused to seriously listen to when it comes to recommending this one because all put together, it was good, yet not.
adventurous
dark
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Ruin and the Throne was a fitting end to the Fedosian Wars series.
As I was hoping, Moritz was the star. The real, underlying "evil" motivated by love lost. The story jumped right into the necromancer starting basically a zombie apocalypse in the middle ages. The main cast is already weary from war, they only furthered their possible demise by having just created a second, harder to defeat army.
As with the other books, not everything is black and white. The characters aren't perfect, good or bad... other than Arne, he was just absolutely wicked... they are all motivated by what they think will help them live a better life and free themselves from war. This doesn't always align with each other, or go as expected, causing the conflicts that is this story.
I liked that not everyone was on the same page. Made for at least a few tense moments in the story that had me guessing as to what was coming next. They were nail biters worth reading. Including an unexpected death. All for a greater purpose though, and helps with the faith themes that have been throughout the series. The story was concluded and expanded on further to give happy endings beyond the dark period the books are set in.
I would say of the 5 in the series, 2nd or 3rd in ranking of parts I enjoyed the best. The whole series was an adventure with excellent characters.
I did receive this story as an ARC from the author for free. Even so, I chose to read and review on my own. This review was done voluntarily.
As I was hoping, Moritz was the star. The real, underlying "evil" motivated by love lost. The story jumped right into the necromancer starting basically a zombie apocalypse in the middle ages. The main cast is already weary from war, they only furthered their possible demise by having just created a second, harder to defeat army.
As with the other books, not everything is black and white. The characters aren't perfect, good or bad... other than Arne, he was just absolutely wicked... they are all motivated by what they think will help them live a better life and free themselves from war. This doesn't always align with each other, or go as expected, causing the conflicts that is this story.
I liked that not everyone was on the same page. Made for at least a few tense moments in the story that had me guessing as to what was coming next. They were nail biters worth reading. Including an unexpected death. All for a greater purpose though, and helps with the faith themes that have been throughout the series. The story was concluded and expanded on further to give happy endings beyond the dark period the books are set in.
I would say of the 5 in the series, 2nd or 3rd in ranking of parts I enjoyed the best. The whole series was an adventure with excellent characters.
I did receive this story as an ARC from the author for free. Even so, I chose to read and review on my own. This review was done voluntarily.
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
<i>I was provided an ARC copy for free. I chose to sign up to read and review. This review is done voluntarily and is of my own words. </i>
<i>A Cursed Bite</i> is set up in a world created by the author in a previous series. I have not read anything prior to this one. The beginning chapter did feel like jumping in at the middle to info dump, but the main story stood on its own. Humans have been saved from giants, and are being integrated into other fantastical creatures' societies. Such as elves and trolls.
Arlet is such a human. She ends up with the trolls, but the elves want her.
I found the main character, Arlet, to be very raw. She had moments that showed her in a vulnerable light that made her feel real. With my own experiences and how she was written, she was a character that popped off the page for me. I almost teared up on her behalf, several times even though I knew she was fictional. I felt like the author put a lot of her soul into her development of Arlet. She is the type that has buried trauma that she hates facing because it is so painful. She takes that hurt, and turns it into productivity. If she can do the work to help spare anyone else from strife, she happily takes that burden because maybe then it will make her feel better about her own.
The main male character, Vann, wasn't as impactful to me personally, but he was well done. Cold and untouchable, as his story is needed. He provided the balance to Arlet's reality. When she wasn't hiding behind her facade of happy, fulfillment. I could see the possibility of hurt coming if he dropped his stoic demeanor because of his own secrets. His tendency to hide his feelings below just like her, deep in a hole in his chest.
Their story is a slow burn. Set up for the magical world the author created to contain her characters, then a slow build to help her creatures fit and make sense of their situation and each other. The adventure takes a while to set in. When it does, it is a whirlwind of disaster and reaction, while still allowing the main characters time to process before the plot moved too far forward. It lended well to the evolution of the characters. From trauma and past hurt, to championing for themselves.
I really loved Arlet, felt for Vann. I was happy to experience their journey of devious elves, vicious curses, and plotting politics. The desperation of Arlet as she is forced to face many challenges she never asked for and how she uses them to conquer her past. How it helps melt the cold heart of an icy warrior. How it all culminates toward the end, leaving Arlet with a tough decision that didn't go where I personally wanted, but did make Vann so much more...well, human.
Totally loved this one, and would recommend to anyone looking for a character driven fantasy story.
<i>A Cursed Bite</i> is set up in a world created by the author in a previous series. I have not read anything prior to this one. The beginning chapter did feel like jumping in at the middle to info dump, but the main story stood on its own. Humans have been saved from giants, and are being integrated into other fantastical creatures' societies. Such as elves and trolls.
Arlet is such a human. She ends up with the trolls, but the elves want her.
I found the main character, Arlet, to be very raw. She had moments that showed her in a vulnerable light that made her feel real. With my own experiences and how she was written, she was a character that popped off the page for me. I almost teared up on her behalf, several times even though I knew she was fictional. I felt like the author put a lot of her soul into her development of Arlet. She is the type that has buried trauma that she hates facing because it is so painful. She takes that hurt, and turns it into productivity. If she can do the work to help spare anyone else from strife, she happily takes that burden because maybe then it will make her feel better about her own.
The main male character, Vann, wasn't as impactful to me personally, but he was well done. Cold and untouchable, as his story is needed. He provided the balance to Arlet's reality. When she wasn't hiding behind her facade of happy, fulfillment. I could see the possibility of hurt coming if he dropped his stoic demeanor because of his own secrets. His tendency to hide his feelings below just like her, deep in a hole in his chest.
Their story is a slow burn. Set up for the magical world the author created to contain her characters, then a slow build to help her creatures fit and make sense of their situation and each other. The adventure takes a while to set in. When it does, it is a whirlwind of disaster and reaction, while still allowing the main characters time to process before the plot moved too far forward. It lended well to the evolution of the characters. From trauma and past hurt, to championing for themselves.
I really loved Arlet, felt for Vann. I was happy to experience their journey of devious elves, vicious curses, and plotting politics. The desperation of Arlet as she is forced to face many challenges she never asked for and how she uses them to conquer her past. How it helps melt the cold heart of an icy warrior. How it all culminates toward the end, leaving Arlet with a tough decision that didn't go where I personally wanted, but did make Vann so much more...well, human.
Totally loved this one, and would recommend to anyone looking for a character driven fantasy story.