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myleejmiller's reviews
68 reviews
Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros
adventurous
challenging
dark
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
In the sequel to Fourth Wing, Violet reunites with her brother, Brennan, in the homeland of Xaden Riorson after she suffers a fatal wound from a Wyvern attack. When Violet is tasked with returning to Basgiath to avoid drawing suspicion to the revolution Brennan has planned, she works to uncover the secrets of the wards that might serve to protect Xaden's vulnerable, ruined home. But her questions lead to dark answers and distrust flourishes within the ranks of her friends. War brews, and when all else fails, Violet will need to choose: love or victory.
I have a lot to say about Iron Flame, Rebecca Yarros' second novel in the Fourth Wing trilogy. While the first book suffered several issues (and this one does as well), I will say I am pleased to see that Iron Flame has a much better and more fluid writing style than book one in this series. I found the craft of the author's voice much improved and the characters more likable with the previous book's backstory behind them. Yarros paints a vivid picture of bone-rattling action in an unforgettable setting, centering around dragons, deception, and doomed love. It was easy to get enthralled and read without stopping.
As far as the faults for Iron Flame go, I admit the plot hole issue is still very pronounced in the sequel. While there are less unresolved tangents and less odd, unfinished foreshadowing tidbits, there are still enough of both to be noticeable and bothersome during the full readthrough. It feels less like Yarros' is intentionally misleading the readers and more like she forgets to tie up loose ends throughout the writing and revision process.
That being said: I have a guilty pleasure for fiction in this genre and written this way, plot holes aside. If you love dragons, violence, intrigue, romance, and emotional rollercoasters, (and can stand a subpar writing style) I'd recommend Iron Flame a thousand times over.
I have a lot to say about Iron Flame, Rebecca Yarros' second novel in the Fourth Wing trilogy. While the first book suffered several issues (and this one does as well), I will say I am pleased to see that Iron Flame has a much better and more fluid writing style than book one in this series. I found the craft of the author's voice much improved and the characters more likable with the previous book's backstory behind them. Yarros paints a vivid picture of bone-rattling action in an unforgettable setting, centering around dragons, deception, and doomed love. It was easy to get enthralled and read without stopping.
As far as the faults for Iron Flame go, I admit the plot hole issue is still very pronounced in the sequel. While there are less unresolved tangents and less odd, unfinished foreshadowing tidbits, there are still enough of both to be noticeable and bothersome during the full readthrough. It feels less like Yarros' is intentionally misleading the readers and more like she forgets to tie up loose ends throughout the writing and revision process.
That being said: I have a guilty pleasure for fiction in this genre and written this way, plot holes aside. If you love dragons, violence, intrigue, romance, and emotional rollercoasters, (and can stand a subpar writing style) I'd recommend Iron Flame a thousand times over.
Foul Heart Huntsman by Chloe Gong
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
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
5.0
Rosalind Lang, infamous national spy whose code name is Fortune, has suffered the fate of nationwide exposure. Forced to go on tour and reveal her secret immortality in order to remain an operative, she plays along in the hopes to find the stolen love of her life. Orion was taken by his mother, but Rosalind isn't the only one after him-or the power he possesses. The Nationalists want him dead, the Communists want him used, and his mother needs him for further experiments. With their lives, careers, and the country on the line, Rosalind Lang and Orion must find a way to save themselves alongside everyone else they care about in this enthralling finale to the Foul Lady Fortune duology.
Once again, I am impressed by the nature of Gong's work in this duology. Although I haven't had the honor of reading These Violent Delights yet (and I intend to dive into that story soon!) this narrative blew me away. It was a heart-stopping sequel and soul-shredding denouement of a story that will traverse time and the world. Showcasing the heartbreak that comes from war, the ugliness of family, and the bittersweetness behind dark motives, Gong paints a picture few other authors can craft so well.
I am always taken away by Gong's vivid prose and authentic characters, which leave me wanting more with each page I read. Although I started reading this story a long while ago (and then suffered no less than three reading slumps before finishing it) I am excited to have returned and devoured this novel with ease. Gong's writing style makes it easy to want to read her work. This story is not only worth the read, but also worth the reread. I look forward to seeing where she goes in the future of her career and how her audience is expanded. The world isn't ready for the writing of Chloe Gong.
Once again, I am impressed by the nature of Gong's work in this duology. Although I haven't had the honor of reading These Violent Delights yet (and I intend to dive into that story soon!) this narrative blew me away. It was a heart-stopping sequel and soul-shredding denouement of a story that will traverse time and the world. Showcasing the heartbreak that comes from war, the ugliness of family, and the bittersweetness behind dark motives, Gong paints a picture few other authors can craft so well.
I am always taken away by Gong's vivid prose and authentic characters, which leave me wanting more with each page I read. Although I started reading this story a long while ago (and then suffered no less than three reading slumps before finishing it) I am excited to have returned and devoured this novel with ease. Gong's writing style makes it easy to want to read her work. This story is not only worth the read, but also worth the reread. I look forward to seeing where she goes in the future of her career and how her audience is expanded. The world isn't ready for the writing of Chloe Gong.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Violet is forced to become a dragon rider, after being raised as a scholar, in order to replace her dead older brother. But trials challenge her entrance to the rider's quadrant, and the trials aren't the only things that want her dead. The lethal forces of gryphon fliers are after her blood, alongside most of the other candidates competing to become riders. When less than half of the first years like Violet will die rather than fly, none of them want the weak general's daughter on their side. Especially third year and wingleader Xaden, whose mother died by Violet's mother's hands. When the trials threaten her life and dark truths come to light, Violet is forced to ally with the person who wants her dead the most: Xaden. They will save their kingdom - or defy it, together.
I've heard so much about Rebecca Yarros and her book Fourth Wing. Most of the opinions I heard were either very good or very bad, and eventually I couldn't resist seeing what book made the return of dragons explode across all forms of fiction literature. Usually, I start with the things I loved about the book in my reviews, but this time I'll start with the things I didn't like.
I can see why some readers hated Fourth Wing enough to DNF this book. The first third of the novel had several issues, and the following are the problems that bothered me the most. One, there were dozens of run-on sentences and sentence fragments. More than five times, I read large paragraphs entirely composed of one sentence, which forced me to reread for understanding alone. Two, there were also many incomplete sentences in the first half of the book, where the characters (and the narrative) began sentences halfway through the actual line instead of in a more composed format. Three, the subject that bothered me most was the number of times throughout the whole novel where Violet would blatantly state something as knowledge she already obtained, and then a dozen or so pages later someone would tell her the same facts (or she would state them again) and she would suddenly be "learning them for the first time". There were a lot of inconsistencies like this, for the full readthrough of Fourth Wing.
Fourth, I struggled with how much of the first half of the book is written in a very YA style, especially the dialogue. Although this was mostly resolved after the midpoint, I did feel like the dialogue retained a YA consistency throughout the narrative. And finally, although this book is promoted as a romantasy with dragons... the dragons are hardly there. They show up at the midpoint, and at intervals afterward, but are hardly relevant to the story's central plot. It was disappointing.
Now, as far as what I liked: this entire premise and plot is one of the most unique stories I've read in years. Outside of Eragon by Christopher Paolini, there isn't much accessible YA and Adult fiction which has dragons at the center of the book. I was ecstatic to see this trend return and it inspired some of my own writing. The characters were complex, vivid, and moving. Their emotions were real, fresh, and refreshing compared to many other books in the same genre.
The setting and worldbuilding within Fourth Wing are impressive, too. Complex history, a backstory that matters, and a world rich with color - what else could a reader want? The detail put into the academy and the world could provide enough depth for dozens more stories, post and prior, in this novel's world. Witty characters, intense romance, and vivid prose truly build up the breadth of Yarros' work in Fourth Wing. I am excited to read book two (already purchased) and more of Yarros' work in the future!
I've heard so much about Rebecca Yarros and her book Fourth Wing. Most of the opinions I heard were either very good or very bad, and eventually I couldn't resist seeing what book made the return of dragons explode across all forms of fiction literature. Usually, I start with the things I loved about the book in my reviews, but this time I'll start with the things I didn't like.
I can see why some readers hated Fourth Wing enough to DNF this book. The first third of the novel had several issues, and the following are the problems that bothered me the most. One, there were dozens of run-on sentences and sentence fragments. More than five times, I read large paragraphs entirely composed of one sentence, which forced me to reread for understanding alone. Two, there were also many incomplete sentences in the first half of the book, where the characters (and the narrative) began sentences halfway through the actual line instead of in a more composed format. Three, the subject that bothered me most was the number of times throughout the whole novel where Violet would blatantly state something as knowledge she already obtained, and then a dozen or so pages later someone would tell her the same facts (or she would state them again) and she would suddenly be "learning them for the first time". There were a lot of inconsistencies like this, for the full readthrough of Fourth Wing.
Fourth, I struggled with how much of the first half of the book is written in a very YA style, especially the dialogue. Although this was mostly resolved after the midpoint, I did feel like the dialogue retained a YA consistency throughout the narrative. And finally, although this book is promoted as a romantasy with dragons... the dragons are hardly there. They show up at the midpoint, and at intervals afterward, but are hardly relevant to the story's central plot. It was disappointing.
Now, as far as what I liked: this entire premise and plot is one of the most unique stories I've read in years. Outside of Eragon by Christopher Paolini, there isn't much accessible YA and Adult fiction which has dragons at the center of the book. I was ecstatic to see this trend return and it inspired some of my own writing. The characters were complex, vivid, and moving. Their emotions were real, fresh, and refreshing compared to many other books in the same genre.
The setting and worldbuilding within Fourth Wing are impressive, too. Complex history, a backstory that matters, and a world rich with color - what else could a reader want? The detail put into the academy and the world could provide enough depth for dozens more stories, post and prior, in this novel's world. Witty characters, intense romance, and vivid prose truly build up the breadth of Yarros' work in Fourth Wing. I am excited to read book two (already purchased) and more of Yarros' work in the future!
A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
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
5.0
After escaping the fourth trial in An Ember In The Ashes, Laia and Elias fight themselves and the deadly external forces of the Commandant and Marcus in order to survive. Tethered to each other and their deal to free Laia's brother from prison, Elias and Laia undertake their post perilous mission yet: breaking into the world's best-defended jail. But when Elias is poisoned and his life ebbs, and when Laia discovers an arcane power hidden within her, they realize more is at stake than their lives.
This is the second book I have read by Sabaa Tahir, and it was every bit as wonderful as the first book I read (which was also the first installment in this series). Using magnificent prose, complex characterization, and mastery over conflict and tension, Tahir paints a vivid picture of a story just starting to unfold. It was easy to fall in love with the characters and the setting; like watching a movie again and again but each rewatch feels like the first time. Her writing, I think, is something I will never tire of.
No book is perfect, and A Torch Against The Night did have its flaws, but the pros far outweighed the cons. I felt immersed in the world Tahir created and cannot wait to continue reading this series as soon as I can get my hands on the remaining books. Tahir is truly a master at work, and I would recommend her novels to anyone who has a love for high-quality fantasy.
This is the second book I have read by Sabaa Tahir, and it was every bit as wonderful as the first book I read (which was also the first installment in this series). Using magnificent prose, complex characterization, and mastery over conflict and tension, Tahir paints a vivid picture of a story just starting to unfold. It was easy to fall in love with the characters and the setting; like watching a movie again and again but each rewatch feels like the first time. Her writing, I think, is something I will never tire of.
No book is perfect, and A Torch Against The Night did have its flaws, but the pros far outweighed the cons. I felt immersed in the world Tahir created and cannot wait to continue reading this series as soon as I can get my hands on the remaining books. Tahir is truly a master at work, and I would recommend her novels to anyone who has a love for high-quality fantasy.
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-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
4.0
Iris Winnow and Roman Kitt were rivals seeking after the same thing: a promotion at a news firm which would set their futures in stone. When things turn bleak for Iris and she risks more than her future if she stays, she makes plans that could end her career and her life. All the while, mangled feelings erupt, and enchanted typewriters threaten to tangle their lives further.
Divine Rivals is one of those books that got so much hype that I was afraid to read it. And to be frank, this is also the first book where I was conflicted about what rating it would receive from me. While I loved the characterization and prose in most areas of the book, overall, the writing felt stiff, rushed, and oftentimes abrupt especially following the first one hundred pages. From ACT II onward, it felt as though much of the information was dumped into the narrative and also the dialogue. Many unordinary conveniences occurred, alongside the agitating rushed development of relationships.
The only thing that saved this book for me was my guilty pleasure liking for books written with sub-par voices. I also found much of the dialogue (when not info-dumpy) to be lighthearted and enthralling. For much of the book, I found myself smiling like a dork and determined to see what happened next. I enjoyed the readthrough so much, because of this, that I was able to ignore many (and there were many) faults in the novel: jagged pacing, predictable plot and character arcs, etc. I did order the second book after the unresolved finale, and I'm hoping it wraps up the questions I have from this book's climax.
Divine Rivals is one of those books that got so much hype that I was afraid to read it. And to be frank, this is also the first book where I was conflicted about what rating it would receive from me. While I loved the characterization and prose in most areas of the book, overall, the writing felt stiff, rushed, and oftentimes abrupt especially following the first one hundred pages. From ACT II onward, it felt as though much of the information was dumped into the narrative and also the dialogue. Many unordinary conveniences occurred, alongside the agitating rushed development of relationships.
The only thing that saved this book for me was my guilty pleasure liking for books written with sub-par voices. I also found much of the dialogue (when not info-dumpy) to be lighthearted and enthralling. For much of the book, I found myself smiling like a dork and determined to see what happened next. I enjoyed the readthrough so much, because of this, that I was able to ignore many (and there were many) faults in the novel: jagged pacing, predictable plot and character arcs, etc. I did order the second book after the unresolved finale, and I'm hoping it wraps up the questions I have from this book's climax.
Enna Burning by Shannon Hale
adventurous
challenging
emotional
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
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
Enna has always been an energetic person, but when her brother brings home the secret to a power which eventually destroys him, she finds herself stuck between two choices. One, to forget her brother and stay out of the war between her homeland's friends and an opposing force. Or two, learn the secrets of the fire which her brother died for, protect her homeland, get revenge... and perish in the process. When Enna's mistakes multiply and her friends' lives are put at risk, Enna faces more than the threat of destroying herself. She faces the reality of others abusing her power for their own gain.
Enna Burning has been a book I've had on my shelf for years but never had the motivation to read. As a kid, I read a lot of middle grade and only recently (after the unreadable days of High School) got back into reading. In that time, I discovered many authors and (sadly) forgot about Shannon Hale's work. I have never been gladder to have returned to an old, familiar voice in the literary world.
This book was both nostalgic for me and incredibly inspiring. As a writer myself, I completely forget that The Goose Girl, book one in The Books Of Bayern series, had inspired much of my current writing style. One of my favorite parts of Hale's work is the way she uses word choice and prose to build up and beautify her fictional worlds. Especially in The Books Of Bayern, I see so much attention to detail through the use of verbs for inanimate nouns and the way Hale creates a world based on emphasized movement. It made the novel easier to read and easier to enjoy.
The only regret I have is that I didn't read this book sooner. Although my current TBR is massive and it may take me a bit to read the rest of this series (and, hopefully, Hale's other work), I cannot wait to dive into the rest of these characters' lives and the adventures which Hale has crafted with such masterful paintbrush strokes of prose. Hale's voice is unmistakable, and her works are world changing. I cannot thank her enough for the joy her stories have brought me (and others in my life). Definitely worth the read (and reread, too!)
Enna Burning has been a book I've had on my shelf for years but never had the motivation to read. As a kid, I read a lot of middle grade and only recently (after the unreadable days of High School) got back into reading. In that time, I discovered many authors and (sadly) forgot about Shannon Hale's work. I have never been gladder to have returned to an old, familiar voice in the literary world.
This book was both nostalgic for me and incredibly inspiring. As a writer myself, I completely forget that The Goose Girl, book one in The Books Of Bayern series, had inspired much of my current writing style. One of my favorite parts of Hale's work is the way she uses word choice and prose to build up and beautify her fictional worlds. Especially in The Books Of Bayern, I see so much attention to detail through the use of verbs for inanimate nouns and the way Hale creates a world based on emphasized movement. It made the novel easier to read and easier to enjoy.
The only regret I have is that I didn't read this book sooner. Although my current TBR is massive and it may take me a bit to read the rest of this series (and, hopefully, Hale's other work), I cannot wait to dive into the rest of these characters' lives and the adventures which Hale has crafted with such masterful paintbrush strokes of prose. Hale's voice is unmistakable, and her works are world changing. I cannot thank her enough for the joy her stories have brought me (and others in my life). Definitely worth the read (and reread, too!)
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
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
5.0
Kaz Bekker has one of two things on his mind at any given moment - money or revenge. When a job presented by a healthy mercher gives him and his gang the opportunity to accomplish both of his deeply rooted desires, he assembles a ragtag team to break into the most secure prison in the world. A wraith of an assassin. A young, wealth-born demolitions expert. A heartrender who can drop men through their bones and blood. And an expert gunslinger with a secret dominating his past. They will succeed in demolishing their way out of an inescapable fortress - or die trying.
Okay, so, I have a lot to say about Six Of Crows, and it starts with my junior year of college in 2021 (and no, I'm not here to offer my autobiography). I remember hearing my classmates rave and rant about the newly released Six Of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo. I was even judged for not reading the books and embarrassingly, thinking the story was about three characters robbing a bank (I know). At the time, I'd heard whispers of Barudgo's work. But in a several-years gap, I hadn't done much reading or writing. My priorities were not to partake of Bardugo's excellent literary craft. After a long wait (and many college classes) I bought the books. And... they sat on my bookshelves for over a year. I have never regretted a decision more in my life.
Six Of Crows by Leigh Bardugo is everything a reader would want in a fantasy: high stakes, vivid worldbuilding, luscious prose, and cunning characterization. Reading Bardugo's first book in this duology was like seeing life breathed back into the fantasy genre. Although this duology is a sequel to the infamous Shadow And Bone trilogy (which I read earlier in 2023) I found it deliciously easy to read and captivating. I didn't need to remember Shadow And Bone to get the full experience of this story. Each time I set the book down, I picked it up seconds later - unwilling to wait and see what happened next. It was a rollercoaster that never stopped giving, a constant high before the eternal drop. And every page, every word, paid off in kind.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the characterization and intelligence of the cast. I am a sucker for excellent characters and deep, dark backstories. Kaz Bekker was, hands down, the smartest character I have ever read on a book's page. It takes a special kind of talent to create characters so fine-tuned and finessed, but Bardugo pulls it off not just with Kaz Bekker, but via the entire crew which appears in this first installment of this series.
Another thing of note is Bardugo's phenomenal use of prose, which both inspired my own writing as I read and enlightened my understanding of the story. When things happened in Six Of Crows, I found myself leaping upright in my seat and grasping for more (literally). I cannot wait to read the next installment of Bardugo's work in Six Of Crows and the other books she has since then produced. Rapidly, she is making her way to the top five authors I have ever had the joy of reading. Well, well worth the read!
Okay, so, I have a lot to say about Six Of Crows, and it starts with my junior year of college in 2021 (and no, I'm not here to offer my autobiography). I remember hearing my classmates rave and rant about the newly released Six Of Crows duology by Leigh Bardugo. I was even judged for not reading the books and embarrassingly, thinking the story was about three characters robbing a bank (I know). At the time, I'd heard whispers of Barudgo's work. But in a several-years gap, I hadn't done much reading or writing. My priorities were not to partake of Bardugo's excellent literary craft. After a long wait (and many college classes) I bought the books. And... they sat on my bookshelves for over a year. I have never regretted a decision more in my life.
Six Of Crows by Leigh Bardugo is everything a reader would want in a fantasy: high stakes, vivid worldbuilding, luscious prose, and cunning characterization. Reading Bardugo's first book in this duology was like seeing life breathed back into the fantasy genre. Although this duology is a sequel to the infamous Shadow And Bone trilogy (which I read earlier in 2023) I found it deliciously easy to read and captivating. I didn't need to remember Shadow And Bone to get the full experience of this story. Each time I set the book down, I picked it up seconds later - unwilling to wait and see what happened next. It was a rollercoaster that never stopped giving, a constant high before the eternal drop. And every page, every word, paid off in kind.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the characterization and intelligence of the cast. I am a sucker for excellent characters and deep, dark backstories. Kaz Bekker was, hands down, the smartest character I have ever read on a book's page. It takes a special kind of talent to create characters so fine-tuned and finessed, but Bardugo pulls it off not just with Kaz Bekker, but via the entire crew which appears in this first installment of this series.
Another thing of note is Bardugo's phenomenal use of prose, which both inspired my own writing as I read and enlightened my understanding of the story. When things happened in Six Of Crows, I found myself leaping upright in my seat and grasping for more (literally). I cannot wait to read the next installment of Bardugo's work in Six Of Crows and the other books she has since then produced. Rapidly, she is making her way to the top five authors I have ever had the joy of reading. Well, well worth the read!
The Odyllic Stone by Alex Scheuermann
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
The Odyllic Stone follows a young Aster as he battles a cockatrice, makes a deal, and when his father's health takes a turn for the worse, sets out to find a doctor capable of healing his family. Putting his trust in a young sailor and his heart toward his father's safety, Aster faces enemies such as nefarious gods, old allies, and even the world itself. The wilderness is a dangerous place - and Aster will learn to overcome it as he seeks salvation for his family and his town.
I remember seeing offers for ARCs on this book, and I simply couldn't refuse the opportunity. Not only did the story's pitch resonate with me, but it was the perfect cure for my long-term reading slump. The Odyllic Stone by Scheuermann is filled with adventurous wonder fit for all ages, alongside characters and worlds worth fighting for. The style was simple and easy to read, and I always wanted to know what was going to happen next while reading.
One of my favorite aspects of Scheuermann's book is that placed between every chapter, there were unique elements to fill out the pages and add depth not only to the story, but also to the characters. I saw stories unfold inside of stories, and those letters between every chapter were by far the most interesting part (to me). This book will grab you and not let you go. It is perfect for fans of monsters, adventures, and characterization. Well worth the read!
I remember seeing offers for ARCs on this book, and I simply couldn't refuse the opportunity. Not only did the story's pitch resonate with me, but it was the perfect cure for my long-term reading slump. The Odyllic Stone by Scheuermann is filled with adventurous wonder fit for all ages, alongside characters and worlds worth fighting for. The style was simple and easy to read, and I always wanted to know what was going to happen next while reading.
One of my favorite aspects of Scheuermann's book is that placed between every chapter, there were unique elements to fill out the pages and add depth not only to the story, but also to the characters. I saw stories unfold inside of stories, and those letters between every chapter were by far the most interesting part (to me). This book will grab you and not let you go. It is perfect for fans of monsters, adventures, and characterization. Well worth the read!
The Drowned Woods by Emily Lloyd-Jones
adventurous
challenging
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Mer is on the run from the prince who made her a slave, but when the chance to strike back at him and his corrupted kingdom arrives at her workplace's doorstep, she is forced to make a choice: join a ragtag group of thieves in stealing the kingdom's most priceless treasures or live a life on the run forever.
The Drowned Woods was, much like the other books I have read this year, the first book I've read by an unfamiliar author. These reading gambles, so far, have been paying off. Lloyd-Jones makes a wonderful story of heartbreak, tainted histories, and conniving plans in this next addition to her plentiful reserve of novels. The characters were authentic, the plot was twisted and kept me on the edge of my seat, and the magic systems were complex but easy to understand.
This book was a wonder to read through. By the last one hundred pages, I had physical chills each time I turned a page. It was like I was living in the book with the characters. One of the biggest excitements for me was the elemental magic and the twist that Lloyd-Jones adds to it. I love classical elementals and mineral-based magics, but she puts such a unique spin on this stereotype that I found myself wondering what would happen next.
The Drowned Woods was a circular story. Everything mattered. You have to keep your eyes peeled, for fear of missing something extraordinary that comes into play later on in the tale. All in all, a phenomenal work. While I would have liked to see something more in terms of worldbuilding and setting, the story was definitely worth my time.
The Drowned Woods was, much like the other books I have read this year, the first book I've read by an unfamiliar author. These reading gambles, so far, have been paying off. Lloyd-Jones makes a wonderful story of heartbreak, tainted histories, and conniving plans in this next addition to her plentiful reserve of novels. The characters were authentic, the plot was twisted and kept me on the edge of my seat, and the magic systems were complex but easy to understand.
This book was a wonder to read through. By the last one hundred pages, I had physical chills each time I turned a page. It was like I was living in the book with the characters. One of the biggest excitements for me was the elemental magic and the twist that Lloyd-Jones adds to it. I love classical elementals and mineral-based magics, but she puts such a unique spin on this stereotype that I found myself wondering what would happen next.
The Drowned Woods was a circular story. Everything mattered. You have to keep your eyes peeled, for fear of missing something extraordinary that comes into play later on in the tale. All in all, a phenomenal work. While I would have liked to see something more in terms of worldbuilding and setting, the story was definitely worth my time.
Window Of Opportunity by Mana Avey
adventurous
challenging
dark
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Lola grew up under the thumb of a lord in Slatequay, making her one of the most pampered and influential people in the city. When her father, her hero, falls into the throes of liquor and she remains trapped at home as consequence, she makes a new hero for herself: a marauder she observes from the streets. Disaster strikes when her marauder gets captured by the city's guards, and she must learn how to turn against her sweet nature in order to save him. That, or risk losing the singular interesting thing left for her mundane life.
Window Of Opportunity by Mana Avey was a novelette I have wanted to read for a while, partially because she is one of my closest virtual friends and partially because her writing constantly astounds me. I honestly didn't expect this story to be as good as it was. Filled with prose that passes along the tongue like honey and a world brimming with subtle details of planned depth, Avey makes a vivid tale spring to life in an incredibly short amount of page time.
The characters are intricately woven into a story bordering grimdark and promising ambiguity. It was easy to read, simple to understand, and even simpler to love. Although this book was short, it gives me the impression of prose like within novels by Chloe Gong and Cassandra Clare. Immensely enjoyable, Window Of Opportunity brings me into a world I didn't know I needed. In totality, I wish this was a longer adventure and that I got to see what happened beyond the end - if only so I could enjoy the prose Avey writes, even more.
All in all, there were some issues with this book due to pacing and odd placement of settings. But the quick dialogue, funny banter, and snappy prose brings to life this novelette. Well worth the read!
Window Of Opportunity by Mana Avey was a novelette I have wanted to read for a while, partially because she is one of my closest virtual friends and partially because her writing constantly astounds me. I honestly didn't expect this story to be as good as it was. Filled with prose that passes along the tongue like honey and a world brimming with subtle details of planned depth, Avey makes a vivid tale spring to life in an incredibly short amount of page time.
The characters are intricately woven into a story bordering grimdark and promising ambiguity. It was easy to read, simple to understand, and even simpler to love. Although this book was short, it gives me the impression of prose like within novels by Chloe Gong and Cassandra Clare. Immensely enjoyable, Window Of Opportunity brings me into a world I didn't know I needed. In totality, I wish this was a longer adventure and that I got to see what happened beyond the end - if only so I could enjoy the prose Avey writes, even more.
All in all, there were some issues with this book due to pacing and odd placement of settings. But the quick dialogue, funny banter, and snappy prose brings to life this novelette. Well worth the read!