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d_a_rehman's reviews
282 reviews
Bride by Ali Hazelwood
dark
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content
Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
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
5.0
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
adventurous
challenging
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
relaxing
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Smoke and Light by Kristin Ardis
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Absolutely loved the book and I'll try my best not to spoil the story because I like how the author kept the mystery.
Synopsis:
Story is about a girl who wakes up in the medical wing of a palace totally forgotten who she is and how she got there. But she has her doting fiancé, the Sovereign, who loves her so much that he suffers every moment she spent suffering. She is told that she was attacked by the rebels conspiring against the Sovereign. But even after months of recovery she stills has this strange episodes of pain that leave her devastated. Her best friend is always by her and her fiancé always ready to help. Desperate to get her memories back and make herself capable enough to become the future ruler Khara will do anything. Khara loves her fiancé Ramsey but she is keeping secrets from him. She is having these strange dreams where a magical grove calls to her, remnants of her memories coming back which she keeps protected in her journal. Getting to the grove might help her remember something but going beyond the walls is treason. Whoever goes beyond never comes back, the rebels are ruthless. But desperation got the better of Khara and she decides she will go no matter what. And there she encounters her biggest enemy. Hayden, the one responsible for her currents state, the loss the pain all because of this one person. But to her surprise he offers to help her regain her memory. Taking help from her enemy, betraying her loving fiancé putting the safety of her people at stake what will Khara do.
Review:
The story proceeded a bit slow but I think it was compulsory to keep the mystery and to keep the events in streamline. Author did an amazing job when the secrets unfold the plot twist shocked me. The scene descriptions in the book were beautifully crafted, offering vivid imagery that will transport you into the magical world. Character descriptions were rich and detailed I could easily picture each character with clarity. Moreover, the author skillfully explained the feelings and emotions. Detail and explanation throughout the book was excellent.
Characters:
Characters were loveable and mysterious
Khara: Her character was confused but still using her wits. She was being monitored and guided by people around her but she still didn't let it falter her. She was determined to get her memories back. Dealing with lies, betrayal and devastating secrets she acts reasonably.
Ramsey: His character was well written. He was loving and caring towards Khara and did his best to help her. His determination and dedication towards his goals were amazing and the dark side of his character was shocking. But there are secrets his betrayal was totally unexpected. It was shocking what he did.
Hayden: In first half of the book he was explained as a cruel rebel leader but he is was a total opposite too soft and kind. At times I thought his character was weak and pathetic but by the end my perception changed. We see him in full authority and action later which was good.
Gage: All I'd say about him is that he gives Kenji Kishimoto vibes and he is my favourite character.
I found the explanation of the magical world a bit difficult to grasp at first but it was interesting there is still a lot missing about Khara which will hopefully unravel in the next book.
Who is this book for?
for someone who enjoys mystery, elemental magic, betrayal, ruler and rebel
for the fans of Shatter me and Shadow and Bone series
Overall I enjoyed the book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
Thank you Kristin Ardis for the review copy
Synopsis:
Story is about a girl who wakes up in the medical wing of a palace totally forgotten who she is and how she got there. But she has her doting fiancé, the Sovereign, who loves her so much that he suffers every moment she spent suffering. She is told that she was attacked by the rebels conspiring against the Sovereign. But even after months of recovery she stills has this strange episodes of pain that leave her devastated. Her best friend is always by her and her fiancé always ready to help. Desperate to get her memories back and make herself capable enough to become the future ruler Khara will do anything. Khara loves her fiancé Ramsey but she is keeping secrets from him. She is having these strange dreams where a magical grove calls to her, remnants of her memories coming back which she keeps protected in her journal. Getting to the grove might help her remember something but going beyond the walls is treason. Whoever goes beyond never comes back, the rebels are ruthless. But desperation got the better of Khara and she decides she will go no matter what. And there she encounters her biggest enemy. Hayden, the one responsible for her currents state, the loss the pain all because of this one person. But to her surprise he offers to help her regain her memory. Taking help from her enemy, betraying her loving fiancé putting the safety of her people at stake what will Khara do.
Review:
The story proceeded a bit slow but I think it was compulsory to keep the mystery and to keep the events in streamline. Author did an amazing job when the secrets unfold the plot twist shocked me. The scene descriptions in the book were beautifully crafted, offering vivid imagery that will transport you into the magical world. Character descriptions were rich and detailed I could easily picture each character with clarity. Moreover, the author skillfully explained the feelings and emotions. Detail and explanation throughout the book was excellent.
Characters:
Characters were loveable and mysterious
Khara: Her character was confused but still using her wits. She was being monitored and guided by people around her but she still didn't let it falter her. She was determined to get her memories back. Dealing with lies, betrayal and devastating secrets she acts reasonably.
Ramsey: His character was well written. He was loving and caring towards Khara and did his best to help her. His determination and dedication towards his goals were amazing and the dark side of his character was shocking. But there are secrets his betrayal was totally unexpected. It was shocking what he did.
Hayden: In first half of the book he was explained as a cruel rebel leader but he is was a total opposite too soft and kind. At times I thought his character was weak and pathetic but by the end my perception changed. We see him in full authority and action later which was good.
Gage: All I'd say about him is that he gives Kenji Kishimoto vibes and he is my favourite character.
I found the explanation of the magical world a bit difficult to grasp at first but it was interesting there is still a lot missing about Khara which will hopefully unravel in the next book.
Who is this book for?
for someone who enjoys mystery, elemental magic, betrayal, ruler and rebel
for the fans of Shatter me and Shadow and Bone series
Overall I enjoyed the book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
Thank you Kristin Ardis for the review copy
Dragon by Midnight by Karen Kincy
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Midnight Dragon is a fast paced fantasy retelling of two of my favourite fairytales.
It is very fascinating for me to read retellings, to explore how writers modify the already written stories and weave their own imaginations in them. And managing more than one fantasies is even more challenging. I was curious to find out what happens when Cinderella meets Aladin.
Cinderella trying to get back her inheritance from her step family, meets the Prince Charming who invites her to the ball. But when the clock struck 12. instead of turning back to ragged clothed poor girl, she turned into a dragon.
Sikandar a sorcerer from foreign lands offers his help to break the curse on Cinderella in exchange of a special magical jewel from the crown. But why is he looking for the jewel? why is he roaming foreign lands is a mystery.
Together Cinderella and Sikandar try to find ways to break the curse but discover the curse is unbreakable. Their last resort is to use the third wish from the Jinni in the magical lamp. But what happened to the other two wishes? and will the Jenni be able to break the curse deep in bones? You have to read the book to find out.
Story started off well but after half most things were just thrown into the story. Cinderella and Sikandar's conversations were humorous and entertaining. But the writer jumped from one situation to the other without any link. Even though a lot happened in the story but it still felt bland.
Most things did not connect, like Sikandar used The Jewel of Oblivion to Make everyone forget about his scandal but couldn't make people forget about Cinderella being a dragon. And there was little to no character development.
Overall I enjoyed the story it was a good read. The story continues in the next book and I'm excited to read it.
It is very fascinating for me to read retellings, to explore how writers modify the already written stories and weave their own imaginations in them. And managing more than one fantasies is even more challenging. I was curious to find out what happens when Cinderella meets Aladin.
Cinderella trying to get back her inheritance from her step family, meets the Prince Charming who invites her to the ball. But when the clock struck 12. instead of turning back to ragged clothed poor girl, she turned into a dragon.
Sikandar a sorcerer from foreign lands offers his help to break the curse on Cinderella in exchange of a special magical jewel from the crown. But why is he looking for the jewel? why is he roaming foreign lands is a mystery.
Together Cinderella and Sikandar try to find ways to break the curse but discover the curse is unbreakable. Their last resort is to use the third wish from the Jinni in the magical lamp. But what happened to the other two wishes? and will the Jenni be able to break the curse deep in bones? You have to read the book to find out.
Story started off well but after half most things were just thrown into the story. Cinderella and Sikandar's conversations were humorous and entertaining. But the writer jumped from one situation to the other without any link. Even though a lot happened in the story but it still felt bland.
Most things did not connect, like Sikandar used The Jewel of Oblivion to Make everyone forget about his scandal but couldn't make people forget about Cinderella being a dragon. And there was little to no character development.
Overall I enjoyed the story it was a good read. The story continues in the next book and I'm excited to read it.
Sacred Heart by Celeste Baxendell
“Sacred Heart” the first book of the Rune Heart series is about a mage Nadiya who comes from a family of normal humans. She is raised and trained at he academy but unlike other mages she has limited magic, but her ambition is way stronger then them all combined. Trying to make her own path to become a commander; highest rank of a mage she faced severe resistance from other noble mages. During an attack on the temple her fate takes a drastic turn. Determined to save lives and prove herself worth, she ends up being trapped with the most unpleasant person; the High Priest’s apprentice, Lateo.
Despite his hate for the mages he provides her shelter in a vault full of sacred relics. Nadiya tried to protect one of the strongest relics, the Heart of Asentai, when the vault collapsed and all the power is transferred to her. And now she becomes the Beata. According to the prophesies she will be the start of a new era. But there comes the problem. She becomes too unstable to be with other mages.
In order to protect others and to protect Nadiya she is sent away to the temple to be kept with other holy relics. Sent away from her own people and living with priests she’s stuck with her priest bodyguard who hates her the most. And to her suspicion he is there to kill her. All she wants is to become a no name mage again, return to her people and have her normal life back.
Nadiya is not happy with this foreign power. But will she be able to get rid of it? Will she be able to achieve her goals when there is a great threat looming on her life and the ones precious to her?
Character Description:
Nadiya: Nadiya is a headstrong and decisive female lead you’ll fall in love. She is ambitious and will do anything to achieve her goals. I love her sarcastic thoughts. Her pride and dignity is the most important thing for her but she won’t leave the opportunity to learn and improve herself even if it is from her worst enemy. I understand her determination but it goes to a level of rigidness and the writer explained it so well. All she had gone through her life broke my heart. She reminds me of my favourite character Jude from Cruel Prince.
Lateo: A rude apprentice of the High priest. His character is a bit mysterious and reserved till the end. I still have so many questions about him. His faith in Nadiya and continuous support is so heart warming.
The writing style is simple and the story was amazing and different. A slow burn, no spice YA fantasy perfect to pull you out of a reading slump. I loved Nadiya and Lateo bickering all the time. There are moments that will make you laugh, cry and scream with excitement. I admire the way the writer wrote the character descriptions. One of my favourite one was the entry of the high priest. Impressive. Character’s perspective were also amazingly written. I would love to have Lateo’s pov in the next book.
Who is this book for?
If you loved Shadow and Bone and Folk of the Air series I’m sure you will enjoy it.
Thank You Celest for the eARC I enjoyed the read and anxiously waiting for the next part.
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
“Sacred Heart” the first book of the Rune Heart series is about a mage Nadiya who comes from a family of normal humans. She is raised and trained at he academy but unlike other mages she has limited magic, but her ambition is way stronger then them all combined. Trying to make her own path to become a commander; highest rank of a mage she faced severe resistance from other noble mages. During an attack on the temple her fate takes a drastic turn. Determined to save lives and prove herself worth, she ends up being trapped with the most unpleasant person; the High Priest’s apprentice, Lateo.
Despite his hate for the mages he provides her shelter in a vault full of sacred relics. Nadiya tried to protect one of the strongest relics, the Heart of Asentai, when the vault collapsed and all the power is transferred to her. And now she becomes the Beata. According to the prophesies she will be the start of a new era. But there comes the problem. She becomes too unstable to be with other mages.
In order to protect others and to protect Nadiya she is sent away to the temple to be kept with other holy relics. Sent away from her own people and living with priests she’s stuck with her priest bodyguard who hates her the most. And to her suspicion he is there to kill her. All she wants is to become a no name mage again, return to her people and have her normal life back.
Nadiya is not happy with this foreign power. But will she be able to get rid of it? Will she be able to achieve her goals when there is a great threat looming on her life and the ones precious to her?
Character Description:
Nadiya: Nadiya is a headstrong and decisive female lead you’ll fall in love. She is ambitious and will do anything to achieve her goals. I love her sarcastic thoughts. Her pride and dignity is the most important thing for her but she won’t leave the opportunity to learn and improve herself even if it is from her worst enemy. I understand her determination but it goes to a level of rigidness and the writer explained it so well. All she had gone through her life broke my heart. She reminds me of my favourite character Jude from Cruel Prince.
Lateo: A rude apprentice of the High priest. His character is a bit mysterious and reserved till the end. I still have so many questions about him. His faith in Nadiya and continuous support is so heart warming.
The writing style is simple and the story was amazing and different. A slow burn, no spice YA fantasy perfect to pull you out of a reading slump. I loved Nadiya and Lateo bickering all the time. There are moments that will make you laugh, cry and scream with excitement. I admire the way the writer wrote the character descriptions. One of my favourite one was the entry of the high priest. Impressive. Character’s perspective were also amazingly written. I would love to have Lateo’s pov in the next book.
Who is this book for?
If you loved Shadow and Bone and Folk of the Air series I’m sure you will enjoy it.
Thank You Celest for the eARC I enjoyed the read and anxiously waiting for the next part.
The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
adventurous
challenging
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
3.5