sashavolesky's reviews
103 reviews

Survivors of the Rising Sea: A Post Apocalyptic Young Adult Thriller by Nicole Adrianne

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adventurous funny fast-paced

3.75

The first few pages turned me off however I picked it up again and didn’t regret it.

The world idea is very fascinating and this short story could provide an entry into a whole new fantasy series. The lack of land and classist society of Vikings and pirates is a readers dream.

Character wise Aro is an ass, Margot seems naive changing her whole unquestionable view of the world in just a day, and Kiona who makes their flaws okay by being cool, charismatic, and just such a nice person, I just love her. (I also feel Margots feelings for Kiona may not just be friendship?) 

It was very fast paced and the ending rushed however given its size, that’s very understandable. However expanding on this book would make it so much better but again it’s a short story so that doesn’t go into its judgement. 

I like it and hope for future novels set in this universe.
Obsidian Throne by Elle Madison, Robin D. Mahle

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adventurous emotional funny tense fast-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

What can I even say… I read through this series like a mad man drunk on vodka. I loved every part with all my soul, becoming one of my favourite fantasy series of all time.

Badass Rowan in this book was all my heart could ever desire and Evander being cool, supportive, sexy husband was everything. They both brought out the very best in each other, Evander not becoming a  monster like his father and Rowan gaining the patience needed to rule without stripping her of her personality and character. They owned each other as equals, loved together and in the end didn’t have a possessive relationship with tends to be a downfall in other books.

The war itself was very well writing and paced, being realistic and strategic. The fighting scenes were also very well done, the writing in general was beautiful, it flowed nicely and naturally with a lack of awkwardness.

The ending made me so so happy and it was a truely great way to finish off, closing loose ends, but with a sense of ability to continue.

An amazing finish to an amazing series I’m sad to be over, for the time being.
Crimson Kingdom by Elle Madison, Robin D. Mahle

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adventurous emotional funny lighthearted 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

A third AMAZING addition to the Lochlann Feuds Series

I devoured this book all in one sitting, unable to put it down. As we continue following Rowan in her own kingdom, we see how she interacts with the people she grew up with. We also get the hilarious interaction of *slight spoiler* Socairian Lord Theodope and Lord Arseling in a new environment with Rowans family.

The character development throughout was great and we saw new sides to all the characters, plus with the addition of new characters that brings future possibilities for the final novel

I loved every single aspect of the book and writing and firmly believe many would enjoy it.

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Tarnished Crown by Elle Madison, Robin D. Mahle

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adventurous dark emotional funny mysterious sad medium-paced

5.0

I went into this absolutely loving book 1 and not expecting it to get any better. BUT IT DID. The twist, turns, emotions felt left me needing more.

The character development and progression was divine and it was so fun to read along and discover more about them. The world-building too grew and I love learning more about the politics of their world and how the clans and divisions all function alongside each other.

This book brought me closer to all the characters and left me in tears.

If you loved or even just liked the first one, the second is even better and a 10/10 read!
Scarlet Princess by Elle Madison, Robin D. Mahle

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adventurous funny fast-paced

5.0

This book brought me straight into the world of Lochlann through Rowan, a relatable, funny and overall great character. While she seems to cause herself trouble she’s extremely likeable (for the readers). *spoilers* Theo while he opposes her, is my new book crush. I shut the book so many times because he’s just too cute and funny.

The plot itself was very well paced and interesting, keeping interest. The world-building of how the clans work is a very facinating concept and fun to read about. 

The writing style was absolutely gorgeous and was very pleseant to read. 

I have not a single negative thing to say about this book and I believe it’s one of the best written high fantasy’s out there.
A Dead End Job by Justin Alcala

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adventurous dark funny mysterious tense medium-paced

5.0

This isn’t my normal read however I feel in love with the book and concept right from the start.

I loved the integration of the supernatural into the everyday life, most people unaware but it’s there all around them. The concept itself of death having an IT guy and needing a holiday was very enjoyable and original. 

Making the main character a hitman makes him facinating, Buck has a well written backstory and his character arc was delightful to follow.

Good diversity and had every day problems shown without making it the whole plot point.

Overal an extremely enjoyable read and I’d recommend it to anyone who finds any of the above interesting.

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