Though not quite as exhilarating as its predecessor, The Queen of Nothing still provided the much-anticipated climax o
By you, I am forever undone.
Though not quite as exhilarating as its predecessor, The Queen of Nothing still provided the much-anticipated climax of the conflicts faced by the Unseelie Court, and a very satisfying ending to one of my new favorite fantasy trilogies. It still blows me away how imperfectly perfect Jude is as the main character, how despite her flaws, you still love her to pieces. Taryn, Vivi, and Oak, are all such well-done characters, even though they don't get much page time. Cardan is Cardan, and I love him, even though I despise his tail.
I stayed up late last night finishing this book, and it was worth it. I hope Holly Black writes a book with just Jude and the gang eating pizza and watching movies because I'm definitely going to miss these characters. ...more
Five stars are reserved for my all-time favorite books, so when I rate The Wicked King four stars, do
"Nothing is sweeter but that which is scarce.
Five stars are reserved for my all-time favorite books, so when I rate The Wicked King four stars, don't think little of it. This was a colossal improvement from The Cruel Prince, and I am shocked at how Holly Black was able to pull it off. The storyline, pacing, plot twists, and the absolute cunningness of each and every single character were perfect and left me blown away.
"Your ridiculous family might be surprised to find that not everything is solved by murder," Locke calls after me. "We would be surprised to find that," I call back.
I cannot express how much I love Jude and her clever antics; she is truly one of the most well-written characters in the YA fantasy genre. Just when I think she has been outsmarted, Jude reveals her hand and makes the anticipated outcome a very different thing. As for Cardan, his character development is off the charts, making him transform from an annoying prince to a still annoying king- but one that is frustratingly hard not to love. Jude and Cardan's ever-evolving relationship is the definition of slow-burn and meets the very high expectations I have had since the first book. The final pages leading to the jaw-dropping conclusion were a whirlwind, yet still serving a satisfying end.
The Wicked King is an amazing companion to its predecessor and I will waste no time getting my hands on the finale....more
“People are going to remember us, Talin,” she says. “I’ll make sure of it.”
Once again, Marie Lu does not disappoint. The beautiful world-building
“People are going to remember us, Talin,” she says. “I’ll make sure of it.”
Once again, Marie Lu does not disappoint. The beautiful world-building and fast-paced dystopian plot combine to create a riveting yet brutal story of a post-apocalyptic war. While the dystopian conflict is nothing new to the young adult genre, the focus on the collateral damage caused by war such as the treatment of refugees, corrupt politicians, and racism was very much needed. It is impressive how seamlessly Lu incorporates these topics into her book, and I am grateful for her ability to shed light on subjects that are often skipped over.
I admit, it took me a while to warm up to the characters. Talin is not powerful like Adelina Amouteru or a wealthy prodigy like June Iparis, so I immediately took a disliking to her- all because of how ordinary she was. The same went for side characters such as Jeran and Adena, and especially Red who had little to no personality. However, as the story went on, the characters' personalities began to develop and their relationships with each other became more distinct and enjoyable. The found family trope is one of my favorites, and Skyhunter certainly delivers....more
"Doomed to never be anything but Loki- Loki the bad son. Loki the villain- until the day he died. So...he died. Which was, of course, his greatest s
"Doomed to never be anything but Loki- Loki the bad son. Loki the villain- until the day he died. So...he died. Which was, of course, his greatest scheme of all."
With gorgeous illustrations, vibrant characters, and rich storytelling, the entirety of Agent of Asgard was a roller-coaster ride until the end. I originally picked up this book as a huge fan of MCU Loki, and though I still love him, he is beyond bland compared to the humorous, clever, and mischievous Loki. (internally laughing because there's like twenty different Loki's) Also, Verity Willis is quite possibly the best mortal character, and I hope she makes her debut in the MCU soon. God knows MCU Loki needs a friend.
“I'll look out for you on the riverbank,” Oakheart promised. Bluestar pressed against him. “I'll look out for you, too.”
It was Bluestar's quick wit
“I'll look out for you on the riverbank,” Oakheart promised. Bluestar pressed against him. “I'll look out for you, too.”
It was Bluestar's quick wits and wisdom that I fell in love with as a kid. Her calm, yet empowering personality made her stand out from the other three male leaders so when she began to physically and mentally deteriorate toward the end of her life, naturally, I was devastated. Firestar has shown he is a more than capable leader so far, but he will never have the class Bluestar has displayed throughout her life.
With Bluestar's Prophecy I was able to watch my favorite character's life end and begin. I was able to watch her open her eyes in the nursery and take her first steps, and learn to become all the wonderful things we as readers cherished. I particularly loved her relationship with Oakheart. Though it was short-lived, it was passionate and makes me view the original series from a different perspective. It saddens me to know Bluestar had to give up her life for the well-being of the Clan. She truly gives the word "loyalty" a different meaning.
(I am happy that it was later confirmed Bluestar and Oakheart rejoined in StarClan as mates. It's what she deserves.)...more
“To our clever Jude, who made the Folk remember why they stay in their barrows and hills, for fear of mortal ferocity.”
There's something magical a
“To our clever Jude, who made the Folk remember why they stay in their barrows and hills, for fear of mortal ferocity.”
There's something magical about Black's writing. From page one I was intrigued with Jude and her sisters, and the smooth transition to the devious world of the fey where most of the story takes place.
I shared an emotional bond with the main character, Jude, which I feel is a strong point in the novel. A book can have a brilliant plot, but to me, it's worth nothing if it's filled with flimsy characters. The pride and anguish, and even horror I experienced when watching Jude's story unfold were a thrilling experience and very well done on Black's behalf. Additionally, the relationship between Jude, her older sister Vivienne, and her twin, Taryn, were near perfect. In YA, I have found that the number one reason for the establishment of sibling relationships is so it can be used as a plot device, but in The Cruel Prince I felt none of that. It was genuine and imperfect, and I particularly loved the trust shared between Jude and Vivienne.
Despite the phenomenal characterization, I found the storyline to lag halfway through the book. Though the unforeseen twists helped the plot along, I was a little disappointed with how rushed the final chapters felt....more
"It's not for you. It's not a favor. It's the cruelest thing I could do."
We all had ideas on how this devastating trilogy would end, and we were a
"It's not for you. It's not a favor. It's the cruelest thing I could do."
We all had ideas on how this devastating trilogy would end, and we were all so wrong.
The Burning God began in a similar manner to its predecessors: vicious warfare matched with equally vicious betrayals. Each conflict led by Rin was a punch to the gut, and the punches never stopped as the novel progressed rapidly to the end. My only issue was that some of the more action-packed scenes were rushed, but in the grand scheme of things, this was but a small dent in a golden masterpiece.
One of my favorite parts of the trilogy is Rin's relationships, particularly the bonds shared with Kitay, Nezha, and Venka, so it only made sense that the end shredded my heart. Reading the last pages left me numb, and writing this review a day after finishing, I still am- but bittersweet as it was, the end was satisfying. In a way, I'm glad it's over and these beloved characters can't be hurt anymore, but I think for the months to come, I'll have a hole in my heart.
Though Kuang only ever wrote three books dedicated to Rin, it feels as though I've been with her for a lifetime. I love my little, battle-hungry Speerly so, so much.
"Yes. For both of us. We are both Mozart, are we not?"
If I could choose a single book to represent my heart and soul, this would be it.
When I play
"Yes. For both of us. We are both Mozart, are we not?"
If I could choose a single book to represent my heart and soul, this would be it.
When I played piano as a child I always hoped to emulate the passion of Wolfgang Amadeus, but as I play now, I'll be sure to remember the other, equally talented Mozart....more
“Over the years I’ve wondered why any species bothers to love the stars. They burn so briefly, then fade so permanently. Is the bliss and the beaut
“Over the years I’ve wondered why any species bothers to love the stars. They burn so briefly, then fade so permanently. Is the bliss and the beauty worth the absence and the sorrow, Fortuna?”
I'm speechless.
It's rare to receive an ARC that you love so much you anticipate the release of its sequel. And then, you read the sequel and cry because you need the third book so badly. Well, congrats, Sutton, because you've done it. You've made me become overly invested in this hidden gem of a supernatural series and its fierce heroine, Fortuna Sworn.
I'm not used to the storytelling because the books I pick up are all about high-stakes and action-packed scenes, so at times, the pacing of Restless Slumber felt off to me, and many scenes felt irrelevant. But in reality, that's how life is, isn't it? And what I originally considered a flaw in Fortuna Sworn, I consider a strength in this novel. Despite its supernatural genre, Sutton is able to make her story, and characters, feel real, from Damon who annoyed the heck out of me, to Collith who I love so very much, and Fortuna whose sarcasm and wit never fail to make me smile. Scenes as simple as coffee dates and Connect Four games are scarce in the books I typically read, but I realize now how important they are because it makes the story feel more real.
And that's why death in Restless Slumber does more than break your heart- it crushes you....more
We were meant to be seductive. We were designed to lure humans in.
A thrilling, fast-paced fantasy novel revolving around the suReread: 8/21/20
3.5
We were meant to be seductive. We were designed to lure humans in.
A thrilling, fast-paced fantasy novel revolving around the supernatural world of the Fair Folk and their twisted ways. Sutton does an excellent job with the character development of the main character, Fortuna, and her clever thinking and reluctance to trust gives her a solid personality. Collith, though slightly underdeveloped, has a mysterious aura that seemed cliche at first, but quickly evolved into something greater and more captivating. The slow-burn relationship between the two is surprisingly good, which I find to be rare in YA. Sutton's colorful writing artfully aided in some extraordinary world-building.
The one flaw I grappled with- the one thing that did not fully allow me to give this book four stars was that the writing seemed to gloss over what could be considered crucial plot points such as elaborating on the faerie race and the Unseelie and Seelie Courts. Hopefully, this will be addressed in the sequel. Despite this, the plot twists were gripping and propelled the plot forward until the very end. Overall, a wonderful fantasy novel with a touch of A Court of Thorns and Roses vibes.
"Don't you get it yet, poppet? Nothing here is ever safe. Everything wants to kill you, and you should want to kill everything." "But that's wret
3.5
"Don't you get it yet, poppet? Nothing here is ever safe. Everything wants to kill you, and you should want to kill everything." "But that's wretched!" "That's Faerie."
Despite the lack of world-building and the choppy beginning, Sparrowhawk builds up slowly to an explosive climax and conclusion. Artemisia's transformation from an innocent girl to a monster proved to be both a horrifying and thrilling experience and stands out from the rest of the fantasy genre. The colorful artwork creates an Alice in Wonderland vibe, which pairs nicely with the dark and chaotic atmosphere of the book. Dawson does an excellent job of portraying the manipulativeness of the faerie world through the use of Crispin, Artemisia's "guide." Majority of authors do not depict faeries as the cunning creatures they are, making Dawson's work all the more impressive. Although Sparrowhawk is structured like a short story due to the extremely fast pace of the plot, it was still a pleasant read.
There were ghosts in this room, phantoms who would never be laid to rest. They would walk this new path with her.
There’s that feeling when you fin
There were ghosts in this room, phantoms who would never be laid to rest. They would walk this new path with her.
There’s that feeling when you finish a good book- the excitement of turning the last page, the satisfying snap of the book as it closes- just the absolute joy that floods your heart. I haven’t felt that in a very long time, but I felt that tonight.
This review contains spoilers from King of Scars.
While King of Scars devoted itself to slowly crafting a history of Ravkan politics, Rule of Wolves delves straight into the action, finally letting the tedious build-up of its predecessor explode into a fantastic story will all the high stakes and plot twists that embody the Grishaverse. This book is an ode to how Leigh Bardugo is truly the queen of fantasy- and that all good things come to those who wait.
Let the hounds give chase. I do not fear death because I command it.
There was not a single chapter in the entire book that was slow. The story progressed at a rapid pace until the end, where it delivers an emotional conclusion that is satisfying, yet somehow manages to hint at a future storyline. I have no clue how Bardugo told a story from the perspective of four countries, but she did, and it was fantastic. The characters undergo development that is so immense that, when compared to their previous personalities from Shadow & Bone, the nostalgia hits hard. Additionally, weaker characters such as Hanne, the Darkling (this man really be sitting with his cult and doing nothing), and Nina (sad vibes) manage to steal your heart.
Most ambitious Grishaverse crossover and best Bardugo book yet. What more could you ask for?...more
Just recognize when you say brilliant that you’re also saying Bri.
It's hard to follow up a book like The Hate U Give, and though OnReread: 6/25/20
Just recognize when you say brilliant that you’re also saying Bri.
It's hard to follow up a book like The Hate U Give, and though On the Come Up didn't quite have the same momentous storytelling, it gave readers a different perspective of black life in Garden Heights. Whereas it was impossible to dislike Starr, Bri was more realistic and therefore more flawed. Her innate selfishness and passion for rapping, as well as her bitterness toward those who let her down, are a refreshing change from Starr's fairly perfect attitude. Though I favored the plot of The Hate U Give more, this novel's characters are more fleshed out. Plus, Bri's rapping was hella cool. Of course, in the end, I love Starr and Bri immensely and I am so glad Angie Thomas continues to write these books....more
A bitter and beautiful tale narrated by Death himself.
Zusak is a talented author who strays from the norm of Reread: 4/5/20
I am haunted by humans.
A bitter and beautiful tale narrated by Death himself.
Zusak is a talented author who strays from the norm of writing chronologically and successfully pulls off a hauntingly beautiful story of a girl and the events and relationships that shape her. The main character, Liesel, is as human as a fictional girl can get, and her relationships with her family, friends, and books are delicately crafted. Although the story is slow, the pace helps readers become acquainted with Nazi Germany and the world as Liesel views it....more
The structure of World After was much like its predecessor which is a good thing, but what it lacked was story prog3 1/2
Welcome to the freak show.
The structure of World After was much like its predecessor which is a good thing, but what it lacked was story progression. The plot was slow and seemingly aimless; this tends to be the trend for the second book of trilogies, and World After proved to be no different. On the upside, Penryn's mother goes through some major character development which is a success on Ee's part.
Also, the slow burn romance between Penryn and Raffe is DRIVING ME INSANE....more
With a gorgeous cover and a thrilling premise, it's no surprise Children of Blood and Bone makes a
Let them taste the terror they make us swallow.
With a gorgeous cover and a thrilling premise, it's no surprise Children of Blood and Bone makes a strong impression in the YA fantasy genre. The West African culture mixed with elements of magic sets the scene for a fast-paced plot with dynamic characters and relationships. Despite this, certain scenes- such as the entire romance subplot between Zélie and Inan- felt rushed, and the magic portion of the plot was poorly explained. However, the relationships between Zélie and her family were incredibly strong which is a pleasant change from other YA books....more
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