cyrille6k's reviews
709 reviews

Gleanings by Neal Shusterman

3.0

While some of the stories offered intriguing glimpses into the world of Arc of a Scythe, others felt unnecessary and out of place. Additionally, the timing of this release, three years after the series' conclusion, diminished its overall impact.

Broken Throne by Victoria Aveyard

4.0

Broken Throne offers a somewhat fragmented conclusion to the Red Queen series, presenting a collection of novellas rather than a cohesive novel. While each novella delves into specific character arcs, the overall narrative flow can feel disjointed.

The novellas vary in quality. Some, like those focused on Mare and Cal, offer satisfying resolutions and emotional depth. Others, however, feel rushed or unnecessary, leaving readers wanting more. The uneven pacing can disrupt the reading experience and hinder the overall impact of the series' conclusion.

Daughter of the Drow by Elaine Cunningham

3.0

Daughter of the Drow presents an intriguing premise with Liriel, a strong and compelling female protagonist. Her journey offers a fresh perspective on the drow race, a typically villainous group in the Forgotten Realms.

However, the novel's exploration of drow diversity feels inconsistent with established lore. While the idea of individual drow breaking free from the oppressive society of Menzoberranzan is compelling, the introduction of entire communities of good-aligned drow, such as Nisstyre's Vaehrun and Elistraee's followers, undermines the inherent darkness and intrigue of the drow race. This shift dilutes the uniqueness of Drizzt Do'Urden and alters the overall tone of the drow storyline.

The narrative's strength lies in its portrayal of the harsh realities of Menzoberranzan. The interactions between Liriel and Fyodor provide a poignant and well-developed subplot. Unfortunately, the later sections, set on the surface world, lack the same level of engagement and depth.

While Daughter of the Drow offers an interesting twist on the drow mythos, its execution is uneven. The novel's attempt to broaden the scope of drow society, while well-intentioned, ultimately weakens the overall impact of the story.

Dreams Lie Beneath by Rebecca Ross

5.0

Rebecca Ross has once again crafted a unique and enchanting fantasy world. Dreams Lie Beneath is a captivating story filled with magic, mystery, and a touch of darkness.

The novel follows a young magician who must confront a dangerous curse that threatens the world. The author skillfully blends historical elements with fantasy, creating a rich and immersive setting. The characters are complex and well-developed, with a particular focus on the protagonist's growth and transformation.

The slow-burn romance is both sweet and poignant, adding depth to the story. The author's ability to balance action, mystery, and character development makes for a truly enjoyable reading experience.

Grimstone by Sophie Lark

4.0

Grimstone is a chilling and atmospheric horror novel that delves into the depths of human depravity. Sophie Lark's signature style of dark, twisted storytelling shines through in this latest work.

The novel's eerie atmosphere is perfectly complemented by its disturbing and grotesque imagery. The mystery surrounding the haunting of the house is cleverly constructed, with suspenseful twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the shocking reveal.

Lark's ability to create complex and morally ambiguous characters is on full display. The protagonist's descent into darkness is both fascinating and horrifying. The novel's exploration of themes of obsession, madness, and the blurred lines between good and evil is both thought-provoking and disturbing.

Bloodfeather Symphony by Amber L. Werner

5.0

A Thrilling Conclusion to a Beloved Series

Amber L. Werner once again delivers a heart-wrenching and action-packed conclusion to her trilogy. The emotional depth of the characters, combined with the fantastical setting, creates a truly immersive reading experience.

The author masterfully balances moments of tenderness and heartbreak, drawing readers into the characters' lives. The climactic events are both thrilling and poignant, bringing the series to a satisfying conclusion.

If you're a fan of epic fantasy with strong emotional connections, this is a must-read.

Twice Dead by Caitlin Seal

3.0

The concept of necromancy and the intricate details of bone magic are fascinating. However, the novel's pacing and character development could have been stronger.

While Naya, the protagonist, is a compelling character, her journey lacks the depth and complexity that could have made her more memorable. Her reliance on external validation and her somewhat passive nature can be frustrating at times.

The world-building, though promising, feels underdeveloped. The contrast between Naya's homeland and Ceramor could have been explored further, providing deeper insights into the characters and their motivations.

The Passion by L.J. Smith

3.0

The Possessed is a unique blend of supernatural horror and teenage drama. The story follows a group of teenagers with psychic abilities who must confront a dangerous and obsessive villain.

While the plot is somewhat predictable, the author's vivid imagination and quirky characters keep the story engaging. The villain, Zetes, is a compelling antagonist, driven by a relentless pursuit of power.

The romance subplot, though somewhat underdeveloped, adds a touch of teenage angst to the narrative. The characters, while not overly complex, are likable and relatable.

The Possessed by L.J. Smith

3.0

The Possessed continues the story of Kaitlyn and her friends as they break free from the manipulative influence of Mr. Zetes. The narrative delves into their perilous journey to the White House, a place they hope will offer salvation.

However, the novel suffers from a lack of significant plot progression. The majority of the book focuses on the group's travels and their attempts to protect Gabriel, who poses a growing threat. While this approach offers opportunities for character development, it can feel somewhat repetitive.

The ending provides a satisfying cliffhanger, setting the stage for the next installment. Despite its flaws, The Possessed is a decent continuation of the series, offering fans a glimpse into the characters' ongoing struggles and the looming threat of Mr. Zetes.

The Strange Power by L.J. Smith

3.0

The Strange Power is an intriguing premise with a promising start. The concept of a group of bullied teenagers discovering their psychic abilities and forming a unique bond is compelling.

However, the execution of the romance subplot feels rushed and underdeveloped. The sudden declaration of love lacks the necessary emotional depth and connection between the characters. Additionally, the character development, particularly for the main character, could have been more nuanced.

Despite these flaws, the book offers an interesting world-building and a solid foundation for future installments. The exploration of the characters' powers and the potential for exciting supernatural encounters is promising.

While The Strange Power is a decent read, it falls short of its full potential.