The Silent Songbird (Hagenheim)

Title: The Silent Songbird

Series: Hagenheim (Book #7)

Year: 2016

Author: Melanie Dickerson

Summary: Evangeline longs to be free, to live in the world outside the castle walls. But freedom comes at a cost.

Evangeline is the ward and cousin of King Richard II, and yet she dreams of a life outside of Berkhamsted Castle, where she might be free to marry for love and not politics. But the young king betroths her to his closest advisor, Lord Shiveley, a man twice as old as Evangeline. Desperate to escape a life married to a man she finds revolting, Evangeline runs away from the king and joins a small band of servants on their way back to their home village.

To keep her identity a secret, Evangeline pretends to be mute. Evangeline soon regrets the charade as she gets to know Wesley, the handsome young leader of the servants, whom she later discovers is the son of a wealthy lord. But she cannot reveal her true identity for fear she will be forced to return to King Richard and her arranged marriage.

Wesley le Wyse is intrigued by the beautiful new servant girl. When he learns that she lost her voice from a beating by a cruel former master, he is outraged. But his anger is soon redirected when he learns she has been lying to him. Not only is she not mute, but she isn't even a servant.

Weighed down by remorse for deceiving Wesley, Evangeline fears no one will ever love her. But her future is not the only thing at stake, as she finds herself embroiled in a tangled web that threatens England's monarchy. Should she give herself up to save the only person who cares about her? If she does, who will save the king from a plot to steal his throne? (from Goodreads)

Main Characters: 
~ Evangeline
~ Wesley le Wyse

Review: This book honestly surprised me. It thoroughly reawakened my interest in Melanie Dickerson retellings. Yes, I very much enjoy her stories, but some of them were getting to the point where they felt bitterly cliche. However, this one had some new life to it. For those of you who know me, you know I love fairy tale retellings. But there haven't been very many good, *clean* Little Mermaid retellings that I can get my hands on. So, when I saw that Melanie Dickerson was working on a story inspired by the Little Mermaid, I actually got a little bit excited. And so when I could get a copy, I read it. 

In about a day.

It's not perfect, granted. But it was exactly what I was hoping for in a Little Mermaid retelling by this author.

Evangeline is the king's ward, and while that entitles her to a fine life, she hates it. Along with being noble and rich comes imprisonment. But she's able to content herself with singing out the window (hence the title of Songbird) and watching life go by without her. That is, until the king informs her that he's betrothed her to an older and somewhat dangerous man. Evangeline fears this marriage, and thus makes the decision to flee the castle. Because her voice is so remarkable and recognizable, she pretends to be mute. 

In some ways, this felt very much like Little Mermaid. I was skeptical at first how some of those elements would fit into the story - I mean, come on. This didn't have mermaids; it didn't have a sea witch; it didn't even have an ocean! But Melanie pulled it off quite nicely. True, she had to chop out those mermaid-y things, but even so - I was impressed. There are still several distinct nods to the fairy tale. Even some almost-subtle hints toward the original fairy tale - NOT the Disney version. Imagine that, folks. But I will refrain from spoilers.

Anywho, lots of action, good characters, etc. so I'll let the high praise stop there. If you're looking for a non-sea, non-fish Little Mermaid retelling, put this on your list. 

Advisory: Some violence, but typical of this author's stories. 

Also, romance. Evageline, true to her original character inspiration, thinks a lot about kissing the guy. There were some scenes when I'm fairly sure I could hear Sebastian singing in the background. It got on my nerves a little, just because it came up so much. However, I can read that as a nod to the original, given the infamous kiss the little mermaid has to obtain to stay human. As far as actual kisses go, there weren't many that I could remember, but obviously a few to take note of. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Theodora's Children (Tales of Hope)

Title: Theodora's Children

Series: Tales of Hope (Book #2)

Year: 2016

Author: Rick Nau

Summary: Gretchen is her name. She’s the heroine of the story. Some people call her Gretch the Wretch. Not a very nice thing to say about someone, especially if they suffer from a loneliness so intense it could blow the roof off the sky. Certainly she’s not the only person in the world who’s felt this way. You might have felt this way yourself. Or you might feel this way at this very moment, just as Gretchen felt at the beginning of her story. This isn’t to say she’s not a wonderful person. If you get to know her, you’ll find out how wonderful she is. If you don’t, you’ll never know. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Gretchen

Review: This book, honestly, is very hard to describe. In some ways it felt like a fairy tale; in others, an allegory. It was a family story; it was a Christmas story. It was a story about loneliness; it was a story about companionship. 

The beginning for me started a little rough. We're introduced to an older gentleman who loves to tell his grandchildren stories - and that's the whole book. Him telling the two grandkids a story. I was a bit skeptical how that would work for an entire novel, seeing as the entire content was dialogue, but I think once you got used to the idea, it wasn't bad. In fact, I kinda forgot he was still speaking as I got caught up in different parts of the story. 

The story he tells is of a young girl named Gretchen. She's really not Gretch the Wretch because she's got everything she could ever want - a fancy house, a big room, books, candies, a pony, toys, yada, yada, yada. Anything a child would ever dream to ask for, Gretchen already has. Except the one thing she's always wanted: a brother. She even asks for a brother for her birthday. And, even though she's not a drama queen, she dissolves into tears when a brother doesn't appear in all of her birthday gifts.

When she finally comes to terms about not getting a brother, she decides to make one up. And that's where the main portion of her adventures start. There's a definite Christmas feel as a big portion of this novel takes place in the snow and involves the dreams of little children.

The ending, though I won't reveal any spoilers, was not expected. Realistically, it took me by surprise, but it was truthfully right in the tone of the book. This is a fantasy world of sorts. I will say that I loved the final big moment at the end when everything culminated into a wonderful boil. *grins* Read it and find out.

One thing that I would complain about was the author's style. While definitely story-teller-like and fun, I thought it was often too wordy. When three sentences would suffice, the author used three paragraphs and sometimes three pages to give an explanation. A few places also were awkwardly worded with multiple adverbs.

Overall, I'd recommend this book to families, kids, and anyone looking for a quick but sweet read. I think I finished the entire book in one evening and enjoyed it. But I also think that it's definitely something you'd opt to read-aloud to story-hungry kids. 

Advisory: Some violence directed towards children; nothing graphic, but basically child abuse. Some scary situations. 

Rating: 4 stars

*Please note: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.*

The False Princess

Title: The False Princess

Series: None (There is a prequel short story)

Year: 2011

Author: Eilis O'Neal

Summary: Princess and heir to the throne of Thorvaldor, Nalia's led a privileged life at court.  But everything changes when it's revealed, just after her sixteenth birthday, that she is a false princess, a stand-in for the real Nalia, who has been hidden away for her protection.  Cast out with little more than the clothes on her back, the girl now called Sinda must leave behind the city of Vivaskari, her best friend, Keirnan, and the only life she's ever known.

Sinda is sent to live with her only surviving relative, an aunt who is a dyer in a distant village. She is a cold, scornful woman with little patience for her newfound niece, and Sinda proves inept at even the simplest tasks.  But when Sinda discovers that magic runs through her veins - long-suppressed, dangerous magic that she must learn to control - she realizes that she can never learn to be a simple village girl.

Returning to Vivaskari for answers, Sinda finds her purpose as a wizard scribe, rediscovers the boy who saw her all along, and uncovers a secret that could change the course of Thorvaldor's history, forever. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Sinda/Nalia
~ Kiernan

Review: First, I was intrigued by the title. Second, the cover art. Third, the synopsis. It didn't seem like the type of book that I'd be dying to read, but it looked interesting enough that I knew I *had* to pick it up sometime.

And in a lot of ways, it didn't disappoint. Princess Nalia (a.k.a. Sinda) finds out the life she's known for sixteen years is a complete lie, and she was only a fake to save the life of the real princess. I mean, come on -- how cool is that? Terrifying, yes, to poor Sinda, but what a set-up for a fantastic story! While many authors would focus on what Thorvaldor's people focused on - the new, real princess - this author has chosen to follow the path of the deserted, outcast ex-princess. I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I was, and I would like to get my hands on the prequel short story - just to see how that compares. 

Sinda is a likable heroine. She's clumsy, realistic, and funny. She has the most bizarre adventures, but it was a lot of fun to read and "tag along." Even Kiernan was incredibly fun and intriguing, which I actually found surprising (I was honestly expecting him to be a complete bore). Philantha was eccentric and a hoot. All the characters were really great. 

Except the villain. I found that one to be a little cliche. Honestly, I'm sorry. Maybe I felt that the whole, wicked plot was revealed a little too early? I would have preferred a little more oomph there going into the final showdown. 

Also, just something funny I noticed -- all the female characters had names containing an "a." Sinda, Nalia, Orianne, Melaina, Mika, Varil, Philantha, etc. I liked the names, but it was just funny to keep seeing the "a" trend pop in again and again. I can't remember if there were any female names without the "a." Many of the male names, too, had an "a." Random tidbit - you're welcome. 

Advisory: Some romance, as the main characters are the perfect, fairytale age of just over 16 years old. Nothing too over the top, which I thought was nice. Some parts I felt like the author was going to lead to more I really didn't want to read, but it never went very far. And along that line, there is a comment about someone wanting to "bed" a girl. Nothing comes of that either, thankfully.

Violence. People get injured/die/etc. Nothing terribly graphic, but enough to take some note of. 

There is also a lot of magic in this book, and I wanted to take some time to address that. Magic, it seems, is not a completely common thing for most people in Thorvaldor. It is described as being a talent - some people are born with it, and some people aren't. (Except royalty. They never receive that talent.) However, those who use it must learn to control it, otherwise they risk never gaining control over it. There is a wizard school for those who have this talent, but it is only open to people with titles and money.

When she first finds out she has magic, Sinda accidentally chars a vine and then creates a windstorm inside. She has to undergo magic training, and while her training is described in the book, it is a magic that cannot be duplicated as she is working only with her own talent. As in most fantasy stories, this magic can be used for good or bad, but using it takes up energy, as performing with any other talent/skill would. Honestly, since the "magic" is viewed as a talent (meaning it cannot be learned or performed by someone without that talent), it didn't bother me a lot. I felt that the magic was well-balanced with the rest of the story, and it didn't overpower any important elements.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Out of the Shadows (The Tacket Secret)

Title: Out of the Shadows

Series: Tacket Secret (Book #1)

Year: 2017

Author: Emma Carrie

Summary: Haunted by a past she didn't choose. Desperate for a future she can redeem.

Three years ago, teen assassin Emily Brelin escaped the rogue general who trained her. She fled across the globe to Golden City, New York, where she met a professor who offered a home and a new start. The professor guarded Emily's secrets—but now the teen's murky past is about to catch up with her.

When the professor dies, the will names best friend Detective Victoria Tacket as the new guardian. Emily worries her secrets will be exposed and her location leaked. She plans to run away because the general will kill anyone to recapture her, and she won't risk the detective's life.

Scarred by loss. Driven to protect.

Detective Vick Tacket is shocked when she learns her best friend has died. She's even more stunned when she learns her friend had a hidden dependent and named Vick—a single woman with no maternal interest—as the girl's guardian. Convinced she'd be a terrible mother, Vick plans to decline guardianship, until the teen disappears.

Vick scours the streets of Golden City, searching for Emily—but what she discovers threatens both their lives.

Main Characters:
~ Emily Brelin
~ Vick Tacket

Review: This book, honestly, is not a tremendously long read. I finished the whole thing in an evening. But I warn you: it will leave you wanting more.

Emily Brelin is a teenage assassin looking for a new chance at life. She's had to live off the grid to hide from her old employer, a general of some violent and evil tendencies. Desperate to stay out of his employ, Emily's found refuge and a new name with a college professor. However, when that beloved professor suddenly dies of cancer, it's up to Emily's new guardian to keep her off the grid.

Which, Vick really isn't good at. AT ALL. Even if she's basically a world-class detective with an odd obsession for chai in Styrofoam cups. 

In some ways, I feel like the book blurbs offered for this series basically outlines the entire plot. But then again, it is a novella, rather short, and so you can't write a long blurb anyway without giving away most of the story. 

BUT this book is so perfectly titled. Seriously. 

Emily was a wonderful puzzle. I was never quite sure what she was going to do next, but she kept me on my toes. She has her secrets, her faults, but she's still a real person. I loved being able to follow the details of her mind -- her analysis of everything around her, her determining the next best move to make, her photographic memory. She's really a trained assassin, and you definitely get that picture. 

Honestly, there was nothing big that I disliked in the book. The action was very fast-paced, so as a reader, one is never bored. My only complaints would be the length (remedied, I realize, by getting the next 6 novellas in the series), and the quick, almost shallow, nature of the book. There was a connection between Vick and Emily, definitely, but I was sorry to see it not more developed. Vick, too, had a host of secrets that seemed like they'd eventually come clear throughout the novella, but they never did. Perhaps in later books. 

In conclusion, if you're into superhero-ish, sciencefiction-ish, suspense-ish fiction, this would be an excellent series to pick up. And happy day -- all 7 books, it seems, have already been released. You don't have to wait until next year to find out what happens. 

Advisory: Some violence, blood, and shooting. Characters discuss police cases, but nothing terribly graphic. 

*Please note I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.*

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Snow White: A Graphic Novel

Title: Snow White: A Graphic Novel

Series: None

Year: 2016

Author: Matt Phelan

Summary: Award-winning graphic novelist Matt Phelan delivers a darkly stylized noir Snow White set against the backdrop of Depression-era Manhattan.

The scene: New York City, 1928. The dazzling lights cast shadows that grow ever darker as the glitzy prosperity of the Roaring Twenties screeches to a halt. Enter a cast of familiar characters: a young girl, Samantha White, returning after being sent away by her cruel stepmother, the Queen of the Follies, years earlier; her father, the King of Wall Street, who survives the stock market crash only to suffer a strange and sudden death; seven street urchins, brave protectors for a girl as pure as snow; and a mysterious stock ticker that holds the stepmother in its thrall, churning out ticker tape imprinted with the wicked words "Another . . . More Beautiful . . . KILL." In a moody, cinematic new telling of a beloved fairy tale, extraordinary graphic novelist Matt Phelan captures the essence of classic film noir on the page—and draws a striking distinction between good and evil. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Samantha "Snow" White
~ The Seven

Review: This was my first-ever graphic novel. I can't say if I much enjoy the genre, to be truthful. It is terribly exciting to see it all sketched out for you, flipping through the pages. However, I felt that because the illustrations were already there, it took away a little bit from my imagination. I was told what to imagine and see, rather than letting my brain fill in what details I wanted.

In some ways, it was extremely interesting. In dealing with certain time eras and elements that I'm not familiar with, it was cool to see exactly what the author meant. I didn't have to guess at what things might look like. It was all right there in front of me. 

But I'll get off my rant about graphic novels. On to the actual story.

Truthfully, it felt a lot like the Disney film version... only set in American 1920s. The time era made certain things feel more realistic, and I haven't read many fairytale retellings set in that time, but I think it all fit very well. The parts with the wicked stepmother were very close to Disney's evil queen. Some of it sometimes felt too close.

I really liked the added details behind Snow's nickname. It made a sweet take on the usual name. And the blood on the snow bit... heart-breaking, but two thumbs up. Sad, I know. No spoilers, sorry, but I liked how he did that.

One thing I really didn't understand and wish the author/designer had done more with was the seven dwarves. In this adaptation, they are seven, ragged Newsie-ish boys (and yes, I kept hearing Carrying the Banner playing in my head everytime they came into the illustrations), used to living rough on the street. They refuse to give Snow their names, which could have led to something really cool, but I felt that that subplot kinda fizzled out there at the end. I would have loved to see a little bit more on that. But I guess you can only include so much in a graphic novel.

Overall, I enjoyed it, but I can't say that it really intrigued me. Maybe it's just the fact that it's a graphic novel, and that's not really my cup of tea. I enjoyed the story, and part of me would love to read this retelling in a full-length novel. If you're into graphic novels and fairytales, then I think this is one you should probably add to your shelf.

Advisory: Some violence. The stepmother orders the huntsman to kill Snow and bring back her heart, so it's the typical retelling violence. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

The Senator's Youngest Daughter

Title: The Senator's Youngest Daughter

Series: None

Year: 2016

Author: Kelley Rose Waller

Summary: Senator A.C. McFerren has been missing for more than six months. The obvious prime suspect in his disappearance is the homegrown terrorist group known as the Army of Social Justice. 

Searching for her kidnapped father leads Brenna McFerren Jefferson to the terrorists’ elusive “Death of Government” headquarters, known as The Doghouse. But nosing around where the federal government won’t investigate puts a target on her family and sets in motion a rebellion she isn’t prepared to lead. 

Dreams of liberty cause the Senator’s daughter to disguise herself for undercover recon, recruit a high-ranking defector, and partner with a subversive news agency that combats government propaganda. As Brenna’s strength and family ties are tested, she unites a political party that commands the power to transform the United States. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Brenna McFerren Jefferson
~ Tate Jefferson
~ Esther McFerren
~ Senator A.C. McFerren

Review: I think it's safe to say that this book wasn't quite what I was expecting, but I'm not exactly sure what I was even planning to expect. I haven't read much of the dystopian-futuristic type of novel, but I did enjoy this taste of it.

Kelley Waller doesn't waste any time jumping into the action. Right from the start, we're introduced to our heroine and an action-packed scene where guns are around every corner and the drain pipe is the MVP. From there, the action really doesn't stop.

Brenna McFerren Jefferson is a kindergarten-teacher-gone-secret-agent. She lives in a very different America than we're used to -- one with a power-hungry president basically taking out the balancing checks of the Supreme Court and the Senate during his term. He's wants complete control over the country, and he's ready to take whatever action necessary to keep that power -- including kidnapping Brenna's father, the former senator A.C. McFerren who stands for the old-fashioned republic and the ideals of the Founding Fathers.

It was difficult to keep track of everything at first, so many names and acronyms and other important-sounding lingo. But once you got used to what everything was, it made sense. The action is excellent in this book. I never once felt that it dragged or got boring. The book is a pretty hefty size (with a stunning 68 chapters), but the quick narrative keeps things moving along nicely. Once I was into the story, it didn't take me that long to finish it.

There were a few awkward transitions between scenes as well as in certain scenes. Some parts just read unpolished -- basically I would have preferred it a little more edited and smoothed out. To my knowledge, this is Kelley Waller's debut novel, so I'd be greatly interested in reading one of her next works and seeing how her writing matures. She's definitely got the talent to keep her readers on their toes!

If you like guns and explosions with a side of tech, family, and American politics, then this is the book for you. Kelley Waller throws in plenty of plot twists to compliment the action, though I will admit I saw most of them coming. There was quite a bit of character development, but sometimes it felt a little forced. I admired how Brenna at first was fighting to pull her family back together after her father's kidnapping, but by the end, the theme had changed to her discovering her true worth in the political circle.

One thing that I really enjoyed was the abundance of historical American quotes. Every few pages, one of the characters would spout off a Patrick Henry, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, etc. quote with ease, leaving me insanely jealous and wishing I could do the same. For the inner American history nut in me, that was definitely a plus!

Advisory: Lots of violence. Guns/explosions/fighting/lots of broken glass/some blood. It's not overly graphic, but enough so that I would recommend this book for older readers. I didn't count the deaths in the book as I read, but several deaths are described. 

Also, a disappointing abundance of language. I won't make a list here (mostly because I'm not completely comfortable typing those words out), but other reviewers have included a list in their Goodreads reviews if you are interested. 

There is some light but awkward romantic/physical/sexual content as well. Brenna is a married woman, so there are a few comments and physical touches that pass between her and her husband, as well as between other couples in the book. They're not over the top, but a few of them made me uncomfortable. Brenna loses her pants on a mission and completes her job in her pink underwear, and there are several comments about that. One other thing to note would be comments on the decaying state of the union and its sinful turn in society. 

Honestly, I feel like the characters and action helped make this story 5 stars, but I would have loved to give it all 5, but there was a lot (mentioned above) that made me shy from that. There are very few mentions of spiritual content, despite this being labeled a Christian book.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

*Please note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.*

Larklight (Larklight)

Title: Larklight: A Rousing Tale of Dauntless Pluck in the Farthest Reaches of Space

Series: Larklight (Book #1)

Year: 2006

Author: Philip Reeve

Summary: Arthur (Art) Mumby and his irritating sister Myrtle live with their father in the huge and rambling house, Larklight, travelling through space on a remote orbit far beyond the Moon. One ordinary sort of morning they receive a correspondence informing them that a gentleman is on his way to visit, a Mr Webster. Visitors to Larklight are rare if not unique, and a frenzy of preparation ensues. But it is entirely the wrong sort of preparation, as they discover when their guest arrives, and a Dreadful and Terrifying (and Marvellous) adventure begins. It takes them to the furthest reaches of Known Space, where they must battle the evil First Ones in a desperate attempt to save each other - and the Universe. Recounted through the eyes of Art himself, Larklight is sumptuously designed and illustrated throughout. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Arthur Mumby
~ Myrtle Mumby
~ Jack Havock

Review: Steampunk is a new genre for me. My interest in it has grown over the last year, but I haven't had a lot of time to actually dig deep into the genre and really discover its gems. I saw this book at the library (someone had checked out the entire series and had just returned all three of them), I took it as a recommendation and decided to jump in.

If you're looking for a book that puts Percy Jackson into space, this is it. Art is a snarky, plucky, oblivious, and adventuresome young lad living in an old house, not in London - which would be rather fashionable and pleasing to his older sister, Myrtle - but floating somewhere near the moon in space. The adventure begins straight off with a note arriving from a mysterious Mr. Webster, announcing his forthcoming visit to Art's floating house. (The house is named Larklight, hence the book's title.) From there he gets mixed up with pirates, visits Mars, and speaks to a storm. 

Did I enjoy this book? Truthfully, I was pleasantly surprised. I can't say that this has been an immediate favorite, but it was a fun adventure. And I'm looking forward to reading the next two books in the trilogy. 

I realize I compared Art to Percy Jackson earlier, and I fear I should apologize for comparing so many characters to poor Percy. In some respects, Art Mumby is nothing like Poseidon's son, while in others, well... they could be twins. This book also gave quite a few nods (in my opinion) to Tolkien's The Hobbit. A quiet male character, content to be at home, but secretly longing for adventure. He meets weird creatures and becomes friends with unlikely heroes. Additionally, he meets and fights giant spiders. I kept waiting for some to yell, "Tomnoddy and Attercop!" but unfortunately it never happened.

Art is just a fun narrator to follow. I cracked up constantly at the way he'd put things; his view of his sister Myrtle is rather hilarious. The book is also chock-full of illustrations that richly add to the text. Art references the pictures at times during his narrative - particularly when it's easier to show something because it isn't "proper" to describe it in words.

Advisory: Adventure and action, and some blood. Nothing terribly graphic. Art has a lot of encounters with different creatures from the far reaches of space, including the multiple giant white spiders, but I thought it all appropriate for the age level of the novel. 

In addition, a few of the space pirates and other characters use some language. All instances (save one) are not written out completely, having only the first letter and then "---."

Something that I noticed early on in the book was the representation of God. Multiple characters reference Him, acknowledging Him as the Creator of all, but He is painted as more of the Clockmaker type of God. He created the universe, and then left it to evolve on its own, allowing other "Shapers" to create what they would with the elements He provided. These Shapers are kind of like creators; they can bend the rules and do stuff to make new things/planets/creatures. I wouldn't say it was a huge deal, but it was there enough as a unbiblical worldview that it bothered me a little. Otherwise, I thought this was a really fun book. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Truth (Makilien Trilogy)

Title: Truth

Series: Makilien Trilogy (Book #1)

Year: 2011

Author: Molly Evangeline (also Jaye L. Knight)

Summary: Trapped in a village no one is allowed to leave, Makilien yearns for the answers to her questions about life and the world outside the village walls. Yet no one but her closest friend seems to understand or share her desire. Despite her family's fears and warnings of the consequences, she is determined to find answers.

The unexpected arrival of a stranger, and the knowledge he possesses, drives Makilien to drastic action. Confronted with a world she knows nothing about, she must choose carefully who to trust as both good and evil lurk in all places. As a battle looms, one in which will be determined the fate of all, she must decide whether to believe in the One who is truth or fall prey to the lies of the enemy. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Makilien 

Review: I had considered writing up a review for the entire trilogy at one go, but I feel like these books each deserve their own review. So, let's just go for the first, and see how it goes.

After falling absolutely in love with Jaye/Molly's other series, The Ilyon Chronicles, I wanted to read more from her. I'm seriously going nuts waiting for book 4, Exiles. So, I needed a good Molly fix while I waited. She published this trilogy before the Ilyon Chronicles, and it was definitely a plus to have all three books out and available to read so I didn't have to wait at all between them. And for all fans of Molly's work, this trilogy does not disappoint. It is apparent in places that this was written early on in her writing career, but it's been so much fun watching her talent with words develop. I recommend this trilogy for anyone who enjoys Molly's writing, fans of fantasy, lovers of adventures, etc. 

Makilien is an enjoyable heroine. She's brave, loyal, kind, and just everything you'd want in an epic heroine. It was a lot of fun watching her develop, and I felt her pain as she struggled along, fighting to discover the truth. (Note aside: this book is very well named.) Some of the other characters I would almost label a little stereotypical, as she has the usual older mentors that come alongside of her, but they didn't taste horribly cliche. There was the twist of having more than one mentor, and each one had their backstory. 

I found it difficult to get into the story right at the beginning, just as some things were a little slow in my opinion. However, once I got into the book, I got swept away and read the entire trilogy before I knew what was happening. 

Truthfully, this book as far as the plot is concerned reminded me of The Two Towers. Makilien and her friends have a large battle that they fight in preparation for a larger battle promised to arise in book two. I thoroughly enjoyed the pacing of the fighting and the scenes. Many times I got pulled in so much I felt like I was actually there. Guaranteed, once you start reading, you won't be able to *not* finish this series. It just isn't possible.

This series has no magic and is highly Christian. A few times I was afraid that the narrative was getting too "preachy" but overall I think Molly handled it really well. The message of truth and redemption is clearly portrayed in these pages, and I can only marvel at how Molly did it. 

Advisory: Fantasy violence and battle scenes. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Mister Monday (The Keys to the Kingdom)

Title: Mister Monday

Series: The Keys to the Kingdom (Book #1)

Year: 2006 

Author: Garth Nix

Summary: Arthur Penhaligon's first days at his new school don't go too well, particularly when a fiendish Mister Monday appears, gives Arthur a magical clock hand, and then orders his gang of dog-faced goons to chase Arthur around and get it back. But when the confused and curious boy discovers that a mysterious virus is spreading through town, he decides to enter an otherworldly house to stop it. After meeting Suzy Blue and the first part of "the Will" (a frog-looking entity that knows everything about the House), Arthur learns that he's been selected as Rightful Heir to the House and must get the other part of the clock hand in order to defeat Monday. That means getting past Monday's henchmen and journeying to the Dayroom itself. Thankfully, Arthur is up to the challenge, but as he finds out, his fight seems to be only one-seventh over.

With a weapon-wielding hero and a villain who doesn't make Mondays any nicer, Nix's Keys to the Kingdom launch is imaginative and gripping. After an action-packed crescendo to the book's middle -- when Arthur finally learns his destiny -- Nix keeps the drama going and doesn't let it fall. By the end, you might be winded from all the fantastic explanation, but you'll definitely be salivating for what's to come. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Arthur Penhaligon
~ Suzy Turquoise Blue
~ The Will

Review: I have never read a story like this before. And truth be told, I'm having mixed feelings about it. Honestly, I really liked the steampunk flair and the machines and clock references. I'm fairly new to the steampunk genre, but I felt that this story captured it really well. 

Personally, I really enjoyed the main character, Arthur. He was asthmatic! I've always been slightly frustrated with books when they make heroes out of healthy guys, but no one ever remembers that poor little hero who has trouble with his lungs. I have asthma as well, so I was really able to relate to Arthur's breathing problems. And the asthma was described well. Many people don't realize how difficult living with asthma is, but I applaud Arthur for living and saving the world while battling asthma. The world needs more heroes with asthma. Okay, I'll get off my soap box now.

The adventure is fun, the characters are fun, and the writing style (though sometimes difficult to follow) is fun. I'd hate to parallel it to the Percy Jackson series, but certain things in the book often reminded me of that famous demigod. The end was clever, with pleasant twists. I found a few times that I had to slap myself in the face for not realizing how the author was setting certain things up. *should have seen that coming* But, well done. 

The down side is that the tale sometimes felt a little simple and somewhat boring. Multiple times I had to stop just because certain elements/sections of dialogue were just unbelievable. I was willing and able to accept the stretch of steampunk/fantasy/magic without difficulty. There were just too many things besides the steampunk that were difficult to comprehend. My brain would change things just to explain them better - just because I had a hard time accepting what was written as a believable reality. 

And then of course - the end. Mister "Monday" really means that you only get 1/7th of the whole adventure. There's Tuesday, Wednesday, and so on. Which means I need to now go find the other six books, finish the week, and finish the adventure. I'm not in a hurry to find out what happened, but I guess at some point I'll wonder what became of that asthmatic hero. 

Advisory: I can't think of much that I'd put as an advisory for this book. Some fighting and violence, but all a manageable, elementary level. I can't remember anything that would be of a concern, really. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Winter (The Lunar Chronicles)

Title: Winter 

Series: The Lunar Chronicles (Book #4)

Year: 2015 

Author: Marissa Meyer 

Summary: Princess Winter is admired by the Lunar people for her grace and kindness, and despite the scars that mar her face, her beauty is said to be even more breathtaking than that of her stepmother, Queen Levana.

Winter despises her stepmother, and knows Levana won’t approve of her feelings for her childhood friend—the handsome palace guard, Jacin. But Winter isn’t as weak as Levana believes her to be and she’s been undermining her stepmother’s wishes for years. Together with the cyborg mechanic, Cinder, and her allies, Winter might even have the power to launch a revolution and win a war that’s been raging for far too long.

Can Cinder, Scarlet, Cress, and Winter defeat Levana and find their happily ever afters? (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Cress
~ Scarlet
~ Cinder
~ Winter
~ Captain Thorne
~ Jacin
~ Kai
~ Wolf
~ Levana

Review: I can't say just what it is about this series. Truthfully, there are certain things that just make me cringe, but at the same time, something always draws me back for more. It could be the fact that it has all the crazy, space-y, awesome elements that remind me of Star Wars. It could also be that Marissa Meyer has a unique habit of creating characters that are impossible to forget and impossible not to care for. OR it could simply be the fact that these are fairy tale retellings, and I absolutely love a good fairy tale retelling.

Or it could be all of those things combined. 

At any rate, here is the stunning conclusion to The Lunar Chronicles, and we're treated once more to the adventures of Cinder and Co. All the things are at stake. People are in jeopardy. The fate of both the moon and the earth hang in the balance. And Winter can't seem to snap Jacin out of Guard Jacin mode. 

This book I felt was maybe a little more action-packed and dramatic than the other three books. Possibly because it's the finale, and I will say that Marissa Meyer doesn't disappoint with this finale. I like how she took several different plots and wove them all together into one, satisfying tale. Granted, not everything is satisfying, but there's a great feeling of an end well done once you hit the last page. 

The Snow White angle I thought cleverly woven in. I was interested to see how the author would use the glass coffin, and it did not disappoint. In the least.

Truthfully, I want more fairy tales in this style. The science fiction/space opera settings do well when mixed with fairy tales, and I was kinda disappointed that this was the last book for Marissa Meyer's Lunar Chronicles. I think the stories could have gone on a little further with more fairy tales. But that's just me. I'm a fairy tale fanatic. *coughs*

Advisory: Violence/fighting/blood/pain/death, but all on the same level as the other Lunar Chronicles books. The queen has a hobby of torturing people, so the narration gets a little graphic at times, but I never thought it too much. I can't recall anything specific that stood out, but it was definitely darker than the other three books. Also, some "adult comments" and language - all typical of the series. 

Romance from all 4 major couples plus some. I remember quite a few kisses/romantic physical content, so that's something to be aware of. It was pretty heavy, and that's a lot more than what I'm normally comfortable with. 

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

King's Warrior (The Minstrel's Song)

Title: King's Warrior

Series: The Minstrel's Song (Book #1)

Year: 2012

Author: Jenelle Leanne Schmidt 

Summary: Six hundred years ago the land of Aom-igh was threatened with invasion by the Dark Country across the Stained Sea; in their danger King Llian sought the help of the dragons and the myth-folk. Graldon, King of the Dragons, granted the human king with a gift that would help him defeat his enemies. Graldon also promised King Llian that the dragons would come to the humans’ aid should Aom-igh ever be in such danger again. Years passed, and Aom-igh remained safe and isolated from its enemies. The dragons slowly disappeared and faded into legend and myth, and people forgot magic had ever existed. 

When her kingdom is threatened by the Dark Country once again, the headstrong Princess Kamarie sets off on a quest to find the man who may be able to save them all: the former King’s Warrior. Traveling with her are two companions: her eccentric maid, and a squire who resents his charge to travel with and protect the princess. However, finding the legendary hero proves to be the least of their worries. Together the companions encounter more than they ever bargained for. A beautiful gatekeeper, a sword fashioned by dragons, enemies who pursue them relentlessly and hound them at every turn, and an underground world full of mythical creatures are just the beginning of their adventures. 

As they search for the answers to mystifying riddles and seek a way to save everything they hold dear the comrades will learn a little about courage, a lot about truth, and more about themselves than they ever imagined. But if they can succeed in their quest, they may join worlds together. (from Goodreads)

Main Characters:
~ Kamarie
~ Oraeyn
~ Brant
~ Dylanna
~ Yole

Review: I'd heard a lot about this book through many of my blogging friends, and I've wanted to read it for a while. It took a while to get me to get it for my Kindle, and then it took even longer to get around to actually reading it. No fault of the book's; I'm just a avid procrastinator. 

This is a fantastic fantasy adventure in the style of Narnia or the DragonKeeper Chronicles. I did very much enjoy it. The characters, at first, seem a bit stereotypical of an epic fantasy tale, but once you get to know them, they dash all stereotypes to pieces. Kamarie is a sword-loving, action-loving princess, but she's not above asking for help. Darby is her eccentric old maid, but she's got her secrets and isn't too stuck up to get her elbows dirty in the adventure. Oraeyn is a squire, working towards being a full-fledged knight, but he'll admit that there's still a lot he doesn't know. Brant is a well-trained warrior and outdoorsman, but he has his share of tragedy and secrets. Yole is a fun orphan boy, but there's a lot more to him than meets the eye. 

The style is a little wordy, and I felt that at times a lot of information was repeated, first in the narration and then by someone talking. Personally, I think that this story could have used a little more editing to cut down on the repetitions and wordiness, but it was still very enjoyable.

The plot and events were sometimes a little unusual and full of twists! It was fun to read and ride along on the adventures of Kamarie and her friends. One of my absolute favorite scenes was early on when Oraeyn and Kamarie settle the question of leadership on their quest - involving a river. Quite out of the ordinary, but very memorable. *grins* 

Also: DRAGONS!! I loved the dragons. They were amazing. And dragons are wonderful things to have in stories. They were a pretty epic bonus to an epic story. Dragons are good things to read about. As a confession, I feel like I would read and enjoy almost any story with a good dragon in it. 

I would recommend this book to lovers of fantasy, adventure, and fun. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series (The Minstrel's Song), and I was very pleased to note I already have the other two books (Second Son and Yorien's Hand) on my Kindle. Guess what I'll be doing soon? While the end was satisfactory, I still had too many questions to allow the story to end with book one. Relationships, people, REASONS. Things still need to happen, so I'm going to keep reading and not talk about it because of spoilers. But I'm pretty sure you'd get hooked too, so read, enjoy, and read some more. 

Advisory: Some fantasy violence/fighting/death. Not over the top, and I thought it very well handled for the tone of the novel.

There is also magic in this story, but I think the author handled that well, too. Normally, I don't enjoy books with lots of magic in it (I'll leave my lengthy explanation for another time). The magic in this book is used only by those who have been trained to use it (i.e. the wizards and wizardesses) for the benefit of others. I didn't think the magic overused, but I'd be interested in reading and researching more of this author so that I could more fully understand how she's using that magic as it's not completely clear in this one novel. 

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars