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elisa_menz's reviews
145 reviews
Princess of Air by Natalie Cammaratta
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
After reading this beautiful fantasy romance, I learned two vital things about my reading preferences.
One: I love Elemental Magic. Well written, it can be intuitive, creative, and quite original from author to author. In Princess of Air, we see a magnificent use of elemental magic from all the siblings.
Two: I don't enjoy romantic triangles at all. There's not a single aspect of that trope that works for me, and it's a predominant subject in this novel.The tragic resolution to Arabella's romantic dilemma broke my heart (because, of course, the guy I liked didn't make it!). I will forever defend the idea that love triangles only work if the two guys are also pinning for each other.
I recommend this book to fans of elemental bending, political intrigue, and love triangles. Two out of three for me!
One: I love Elemental Magic. Well written, it can be intuitive, creative, and quite original from author to author. In Princess of Air, we see a magnificent use of elemental magic from all the siblings.
Two: I don't enjoy romantic triangles at all. There's not a single aspect of that trope that works for me, and it's a predominant subject in this novel.
I recommend this book to fans of elemental bending, political intrigue, and love triangles. Two out of three for me!
Wings of a Midnight Storm by P.N. Vang
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Hats off to this amazing sequel!
This book had me sweating bullets with all those narrow escapes, heartbreaking betrayals, deadly battles, and the unimaginable cruelty of some of their characters. This story is not for the faint of heart, and I'm most certainly faint of heart... so, what kept me reading?
Hope! Little glimpses of hope and goodness sprinkled here and there, driving Narwin, Rayla, and the few others trying to save what's left of a world torn by war, ignorance, and greed. And very evil people with very evil pointy things.
Masterfully written, delightfully engaging, and trauma-inducing. I need to lay down. I can't wait for Book III.
This book had me sweating bullets with all those narrow escapes, heartbreaking betrayals, deadly battles, and the unimaginable cruelty of some of their characters. This story is not for the faint of heart, and I'm most certainly faint of heart... so, what kept me reading?
Hope! Little glimpses of hope and goodness sprinkled here and there, driving Narwin, Rayla, and the few others trying to save what's left of a world torn by war, ignorance, and greed. And very evil people with very evil pointy things.
Masterfully written, delightfully engaging, and trauma-inducing. I need to lay down. I can't wait for Book III.
Door to Door by T. L. Brown
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
There are two reasons why I greatly enjoyed this book. One: a couple in their thirties living together with their three fur children and enjoying a cozy life. Our protagonist works from home. This is 100% my life except for the mysterious parents. And the magic doors. And the cool hats.
Two: it's freaking awesome.
Read it. Please. Top hats are making a comeback!
Two: it's freaking awesome.
Read it. Please. Top hats are making a comeback!
A Rival Most Vial by R.K. Ashwick
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
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
5.0
Enemies-to-Lovers is my absolute favorite trope, and this book is the perfect example of how to write a GREAT love story.
Sweet, cozy, and so romantic. Made me ugly cry and smile like a madwoman. I 100% recommend it.
Sweet, cozy, and so romantic. Made me ugly cry and smile like a madwoman. I 100% recommend it.
From the River to the Sea: Essays for a Free Palestine by Michal Schatz, Sai Englert, Rosie Warren
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
5.0
Hills of Heather and Bone by K.E. Andrews
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Reading this book felt like a warm hug. I can't find a better way to describe it. It's so cozy and charming, filled with beautiful details and delightful characters. And heartbreaking, but in a healing kind of way. I can't say I identify with Morana, with what she went through, but it was impossible to be indifferent to her pain and her hope. And Percy is perfect.
Please, read this wonderful book!
Please, read this wonderful book!
Witches of the Dead Kingdom by Ash Oldfield
adventurous
informative
inspiring
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? It's complicated
5.0
Witches of the Dead Kingdom is brilliant! I've read and enjoyed the author's work before, but this first book of her new series is AMAZING! A mix of Welsh mythology and modern-day witches, all set in Melbourne. Incredible characters and a truly exciting plot.
I'm a bit smug about guessing plot twists because I'm usually right (modesty flies out the window), but I was utterly surprised by the events that unfolded here. I loved that. Stories can get a little predictable and repetitive, especially if they include characters from folklore, but the personal touch of each author makes them shine. I'm happy I found this book.
I'm a bit smug about guessing plot twists because I'm usually right (modesty flies out the window), but I was utterly surprised by the events that unfolded here. I loved that. Stories can get a little predictable and repetitive, especially if they include characters from folklore, but the personal touch of each author makes them shine. I'm happy I found this book.
Blood of Beasts by Rebecca Lemke
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
4.0
While I don't particularly enjoy Dystopian novels, the twist to the genre in this story was interesting.
Genetic experiments bordering magic turn young, tortured prisoners into powerful shifters. Titania, in particular, feels like someone who came out of a myth. I'm eager to see where her story leads us.
Genetic experiments bordering magic turn young, tortured prisoners into powerful shifters. Titania, in particular, feels like someone who came out of a myth. I'm eager to see where her story leads us.
The Demon, the Hero, and the Secret of the Stones: A Mal & Reg Story of Widdershins by Alyse Bailey, A.E. Kincaid
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
5.0
You know a story is good when you're sad it's over.
That's exactly how I felt while reading The Demon, the Hero, and the War for Widdershins; delighted while reading, but a bit heartbroken and low-key dreading to reach THE END.
Mal & Reg have come full circle. Reginald has become a real Hero, someone who inspires people and leads them by example (not like those fake wannabes *grumble grumble*). Mal finds the answers to many of the questions he carried throughout his life, and I'm here for every one of the jaw-dropping discoveries he made about himself and his family.
While this is the most dramatic of all three books, it's also the most hilarious. There's no shortage of brilliant and absolutely absurd situations. I will forever be haunted by glitter, chickens, and handcuffs (don't ask).
I read this while going through a rough time. It was a real blessing to be able to escape for a few hours into a world that, while convoluted, was filled with charm, kindness, and positivity. Thank you so much, A.E. Kincaid, for allowing me to meet Mal, Reg, and all your wonderful characters. This trilogy demands a re-read!
That's exactly how I felt while reading The Demon, the Hero, and the War for Widdershins; delighted while reading, but a bit heartbroken and low-key dreading to reach THE END.
Mal & Reg have come full circle. Reginald has become a real Hero, someone who inspires people and leads them by example (not like those fake wannabes *grumble grumble*). Mal finds the answers to many of the questions he carried throughout his life, and I'm here for every one of the jaw-dropping discoveries he made about himself and his family.
While this is the most dramatic of all three books, it's also the most hilarious. There's no shortage of brilliant and absolutely absurd situations. I will forever be haunted by glitter, chickens, and handcuffs (don't ask).
I read this while going through a rough time. It was a real blessing to be able to escape for a few hours into a world that, while convoluted, was filled with charm, kindness, and positivity. Thank you so much, A.E. Kincaid, for allowing me to meet Mal, Reg, and all your wonderful characters. This trilogy demands a re-read!
Shade of Light by Kimberly Grymes
adventurous
dark
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
It never ceases to amaze me how despite reading hundreds of books, I still manage to find original and unexpected stories.
In Shade of Light, we have a morally grey heroine who ticks all the boxes of an absolute badass. Self-reliant, courageous, and smart. After escaping the villainous general who took her off the streets and turned her into a weapon, Adele could have gone anywhere. She had no attachments and all she wanted was her freedom and some peace. But she was due some answers about her past, and we join her as she goes back to her village.
While this first part of the book was interesting--discovering Adele's character and the turbulent world she lives in--the moment she reaches her hometown, things escalate rather quickly. A string of big events and revelations keeps you glued to the pages and soon have you connecting the dots and going "oooh" pretty often. I loved it!
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. It was fast and to the point, but it never felt rushed. We get as much information as we need to follow the story, but keep a good pace because we need answers and everyone in this village has mastered the art of being mysterious and sly. Just answer the question!
I also loved Adele's character. Cold and a bit sullen on the outside, but fiercely loyal and kind on the inside. And what's best is that she doesn't become an entirely different person by the end of the book, rather than learn to accept herself, the good, the bad, and the ugly. This dash of reality in a fantasy novel is what makes a story truly remarkable and relatable.
Looking forward to book two because I still need some answers!
In Shade of Light, we have a morally grey heroine who ticks all the boxes of an absolute badass. Self-reliant, courageous, and smart. After escaping the villainous general who took her off the streets and turned her into a weapon, Adele could have gone anywhere. She had no attachments and all she wanted was her freedom and some peace. But she was due some answers about her past, and we join her as she goes back to her village.
While this first part of the book was interesting--discovering Adele's character and the turbulent world she lives in--the moment she reaches her hometown, things escalate rather quickly. A string of big events and revelations keeps you glued to the pages and soon have you connecting the dots and going "oooh" pretty often. I loved it!
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. It was fast and to the point, but it never felt rushed. We get as much information as we need to follow the story, but keep a good pace because we need answers and everyone in this village has mastered the art of being mysterious and sly. Just answer the question!
I also loved Adele's character. Cold and a bit sullen on the outside, but fiercely loyal and kind on the inside. And what's best is that she doesn't become an entirely different person by the end of the book, rather than learn to accept herself, the good, the bad, and the ugly. This dash of reality in a fantasy novel is what makes a story truly remarkable and relatable.
Looking forward to book two because I still need some answers!