1473229952
9781473229952
1473229952
3.76
1,437
Sep 03, 2020
May 04, 2021
liked it
3 stars
Orfeia is a novella about the journey that Fay Orr did to make her deceased daughter to live again. In her journey, the Faerie constantly cal 3 stars
Orfeia is a novella about the journey that Fay Orr did to make her deceased daughter to live again. In her journey, the Faerie constantly call her Orfeia, claim that she is their long lost Fae queen that fall in love with human and have a daughter whom she love above all else. Basically the journey of Orfeia is a retelling of Orpheus who want his wife back and challenge the death itself. Only, in this novella instead a man, Orfeia is a mother and instead Eurydice, it was Daisy's life that Orfeia want to bring back.
I think the fault is entirely on mine because while I'm familiar with the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Joanne M Harris took liberties in retelling the Child Ballad, King Orfeo and The Elphin Knight while writing Orfeia and I admit I'm not familiar with them! Since the ballad use ye old English and English is not my native, it's difficult to me to understand the meaning of the ballad without try to googling it first. However, Harris's writing is lovely and the story itself actually is about a mother's love to her daughter. Although, I got confused about some things like the situation regarding Daisy's death because it's so convoluted. The illustration itself inside the book is pretty to look at but also unnerving, perfectly compliment the book's content.
I guess, I need to re-read Orfeia in order to understand the story especially about Daisy. Overall, the narrative itself are pretty much easy to understand. The description about London Beneath, London Beyond and the land of Death kinda remind me of Gaiman's novel. The story itself end with a happy note, regarding how you view it. At least, Fay is finally happy and remember that Orfeia at first is always about mother's love so you will get my gist. A lovely novella about retelling of King Orfeo and the myth about Orpheus and Eurydice.
...more
Orfeia is a novella about the journey that Fay Orr did to make her deceased daughter to live again. In her journey, the Faerie constantly cal 3 stars
Orfeia is a novella about the journey that Fay Orr did to make her deceased daughter to live again. In her journey, the Faerie constantly call her Orfeia, claim that she is their long lost Fae queen that fall in love with human and have a daughter whom she love above all else. Basically the journey of Orfeia is a retelling of Orpheus who want his wife back and challenge the death itself. Only, in this novella instead a man, Orfeia is a mother and instead Eurydice, it was Daisy's life that Orfeia want to bring back.
I think the fault is entirely on mine because while I'm familiar with the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Joanne M Harris took liberties in retelling the Child Ballad, King Orfeo and The Elphin Knight while writing Orfeia and I admit I'm not familiar with them! Since the ballad use ye old English and English is not my native, it's difficult to me to understand the meaning of the ballad without try to googling it first. However, Harris's writing is lovely and the story itself actually is about a mother's love to her daughter. Although, I got confused about some things like the situation regarding Daisy's death because it's so convoluted. The illustration itself inside the book is pretty to look at but also unnerving, perfectly compliment the book's content.
I guess, I need to re-read Orfeia in order to understand the story especially about Daisy. Overall, the narrative itself are pretty much easy to understand. The description about London Beneath, London Beyond and the land of Death kinda remind me of Gaiman's novel. The story itself end with a happy note, regarding how you view it. At least, Fay is finally happy and remember that Orfeia at first is always about mother's love so you will get my gist. A lovely novella about retelling of King Orfeo and the myth about Orpheus and Eurydice.
...more
Notes are private!
0
1
Jun 18, 2023
Jun 18, 2023
Nov 27, 2022
Hardcover
0593335902
9780593335901
0593335902
3.90
467
Jul 05, 2022
Jul 05, 2022
really liked it
4 stars
Still as cozy and charming as book 1, Death in Castle Dark; Castle Deadly, Castle Deep bring me back to Castle Dark and Nora Blake's sleuthin 4 stars
Still as cozy and charming as book 1, Death in Castle Dark; Castle Deadly, Castle Deep bring me back to Castle Dark and Nora Blake's sleuthing adventure when, again, Nora stumble upon a dead body in one of the castle murder mystery's performance. Poor girl, just in the matter of months to discover another murder case in the same place and you may wonder if the castle was cursed. Lucky for Nora, she have support from her boyfriend, Detective John Dashiell although their romantic relationship somehow getting rocky.
The mystery itself is solid and also light while still left me pondering what the motive behind the murder. The victim is a bright young guy that seems loved by Wood Glen citizen, especially by the local theater group member, Blue Curtain. Nora again try to deduce whodunnit and why. Like book 1, Nora hope the culprit is not one of the Castle troupe member that she hold dearly although one of the new member, Dorian, make her feel uneasy. But, the investigation also getting tricky because all the suspects are thespian and acting is in their nature after all. Not only the murder mystery, but Bond also include some of treasure hunting mystery in the form of a poem that left by Derek and Paul's eccentric uncle. Because, a castle didn't complete without one or two treasures right?
Compare to book 1, the romance take the more spotlight, because Nora and Dash find themselves getting slightly estranged because of their busy schedule. Reading Nora's romantic woe and jealousy are amusing, but I like that she didn't throw tantrum here and there since mostly her displeasure about the situation is only in her head. I like that finally Nora and Dash make amend of their current predicament and make their relationship work again. Also, I'm surprised to read sex scenes in this book ...more
Still as cozy and charming as book 1, Death in Castle Dark; Castle Deadly, Castle Deep bring me back to Castle Dark and Nora Blake's sleuthin 4 stars
Still as cozy and charming as book 1, Death in Castle Dark; Castle Deadly, Castle Deep bring me back to Castle Dark and Nora Blake's sleuthing adventure when, again, Nora stumble upon a dead body in one of the castle murder mystery's performance. Poor girl, just in the matter of months to discover another murder case in the same place and you may wonder if the castle was cursed. Lucky for Nora, she have support from her boyfriend, Detective John Dashiell although their romantic relationship somehow getting rocky.
The mystery itself is solid and also light while still left me pondering what the motive behind the murder. The victim is a bright young guy that seems loved by Wood Glen citizen, especially by the local theater group member, Blue Curtain. Nora again try to deduce whodunnit and why. Like book 1, Nora hope the culprit is not one of the Castle troupe member that she hold dearly although one of the new member, Dorian, make her feel uneasy. But, the investigation also getting tricky because all the suspects are thespian and acting is in their nature after all. Not only the murder mystery, but Bond also include some of treasure hunting mystery in the form of a poem that left by Derek and Paul's eccentric uncle. Because, a castle didn't complete without one or two treasures right?
Compare to book 1, the romance take the more spotlight, because Nora and Dash find themselves getting slightly estranged because of their busy schedule. Reading Nora's romantic woe and jealousy are amusing, but I like that she didn't throw tantrum here and there since mostly her displeasure about the situation is only in her head. I like that finally Nora and Dash make amend of their current predicament and make their relationship work again. Also, I'm surprised to read sex scenes in this book ...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 21, 2024
Mar 22, 2024
Sep 25, 2022
Mass Market Paperback
4.27
55,019
Feb 28, 2023
Feb 28, 2023
it was amazing
5++++ STARS
EASILY ONE OF MY TOP READS FOR 2024
I can write so many things why I have a blast while reading The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, beside 5++++ STARS
EASILY ONE OF MY TOP READS FOR 2024
I can write so many things why I have a blast while reading The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, beside I REALLY LOVE The Daevabad Trilogy. But, one thing that I want to highlight is discussion about faith. It's rare to read a Muslim character in fantasy novel. It's also rarer to read a pirate Muslim woman. While Amina is a Islam practitioner from the moment she was born, she is what I called in my Indonesian slang, Islam KTP, lol. See, in her pirates era, Amina drunk alcohols, kill many people, steals, flirting with men, etc etc. I will not shocked if she eat pork, hahaha. So, when she finally retire, she try to atone for her sins. She doing her sholat, dzikir and much more, although still somehow fall into her past misdeeds. Like, maybe stealing one or two or appreciate men's physique (at last, Amina is a honest woman!). Nah, I will not condemn her so. I find Amina's faith fascinating because...it's resonated with me. I'm right now in my lowest state regarding my Islamic faith, and there's a reason behind that. Nope, I'm not drink wine or alcohol and eating pork, or stealing so my sins maybe not that big like Amina was, but who am I to judge myself since I rarely doing my sholat, rarely pray to Allah and maybe many other sins that maybe will make me go through the far deepest pit of hellfire? I think maybe that's why I love this book because how Chakraborty write about Amina and her faith, how Amina is still a human, prone to sins and to mistake, but still try to atone and searching redemption!
Compared to Daevabad Trilogy, Amina al-Sirafi is lighter in tone. Daevabad is full of political intrigue and secrets regarding the daeva and their mythology. Amina al-Sirafi is about adventure! A swashbuckling story that left me breathless and pouring over the pages, impatiently want to know what will happen with Amina and her merry band of crews of Marawati ships. This book also heavy in found family troupe and all of the characters are in their 40-ish, including Amina. I think this book also have a same premise with the Bone Maker, in which the main character that already in their 40-50-ish become hermit and estranged from their friends. But I can assure that the execution is different. I enjoyed both The Bone Maker and The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi.
If you have read Daevabad, then you know that Chakraborty did a vast and massive research while writing her books. In this book, Chakraborty also provide her source regarding the pirates world especially in 12th century. While the book is fictional, some of the elements can be traced to its origins. I like the myth behind the Moon of the Saba and snickered when knowing the real explanation behind the artifact. Reading this book is never a dull moment! The story told entirely from Amina's first PoV in a form of her telling her story (and pursuits) to a young scribe named Jamal al-Hilli. So, basically some part can be tongue-in-cheek to read. I'm not kidding when said that the book's tone is light although there's some life and death moments, problems just keep coming for Amina and her crews and also Amina try to keep her daughter, Marjana, safe from harm.
The found family trope is well wonder and I like that Amina and her crews reunited and they are also eager for any chance of adventure. Amina's crews also diverse, from Dalila, a Christian woman famed with her poisons and hail from Banu Sasan. Amina's first mate, a gay Hindu man named Tinbu that managed to keep Marawati in a good shape and almost got hanged because of brigand crime but saved by Amina and Dalila. There's Majed, a navigator that already in his third hajji, a big brother figure to Amina and while he already have family, his longing to make a map of world is stronger so he decide to go with Amina in retrieving the kidnapped granddaughter of wealthy woman in Aden who also threatened Amina if Amina can't bring the said granddaughter back. Do I forgot to said that Amina also have four husband?? Not in the same time, mind you, but the fourth husband, Raksh is an actual demon that want to make Amina as a legend, but also cunning. He's also father of Marjana, but Amina still keep that fact to herself so I wondering how long Raksh will keep in the dark regarding Marjana and what is his reaction if he knew he's a father. I also still wondering, what is exactly Raksh. He's not a marid for sure, and also not a peri. If he's an ifrit, since he said he's a being of discord, I remember that ifrit is nastier while Raksh feel like...a himbo, lel. He's also still married to Amina although Amina left him in the chest 10 years prior to the story, and still married in the end of the book. So yeah, curious about them, although I assure there's no romance. The love aspect is more like Amina's mother love for Marjana and I think she has none for Raskh since that demon also responsible for her late crew's death.
I can go on and on about The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi but know this that I really love this book and will recommend it if you searching for a fantasy with adventure, treasure hunting, found family trope, mysterious artifact, treacherous creatures and interesting thought regarding religion and faith.
...more
EASILY ONE OF MY TOP READS FOR 2024
I can write so many things why I have a blast while reading The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, beside 5++++ STARS
EASILY ONE OF MY TOP READS FOR 2024
I can write so many things why I have a blast while reading The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi, beside I REALLY LOVE The Daevabad Trilogy. But, one thing that I want to highlight is discussion about faith. It's rare to read a Muslim character in fantasy novel. It's also rarer to read a pirate Muslim woman. While Amina is a Islam practitioner from the moment she was born, she is what I called in my Indonesian slang, Islam KTP, lol. See, in her pirates era, Amina drunk alcohols, kill many people, steals, flirting with men, etc etc. I will not shocked if she eat pork, hahaha. So, when she finally retire, she try to atone for her sins. She doing her sholat, dzikir and much more, although still somehow fall into her past misdeeds. Like, maybe stealing one or two or appreciate men's physique (at last, Amina is a honest woman!). Nah, I will not condemn her so. I find Amina's faith fascinating because...it's resonated with me. I'm right now in my lowest state regarding my Islamic faith, and there's a reason behind that. Nope, I'm not drink wine or alcohol and eating pork, or stealing so my sins maybe not that big like Amina was, but who am I to judge myself since I rarely doing my sholat, rarely pray to Allah and maybe many other sins that maybe will make me go through the far deepest pit of hellfire? I think maybe that's why I love this book because how Chakraborty write about Amina and her faith, how Amina is still a human, prone to sins and to mistake, but still try to atone and searching redemption!
Compared to Daevabad Trilogy, Amina al-Sirafi is lighter in tone. Daevabad is full of political intrigue and secrets regarding the daeva and their mythology. Amina al-Sirafi is about adventure! A swashbuckling story that left me breathless and pouring over the pages, impatiently want to know what will happen with Amina and her merry band of crews of Marawati ships. This book also heavy in found family troupe and all of the characters are in their 40-ish, including Amina. I think this book also have a same premise with the Bone Maker, in which the main character that already in their 40-50-ish become hermit and estranged from their friends. But I can assure that the execution is different. I enjoyed both The Bone Maker and The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi.
If you have read Daevabad, then you know that Chakraborty did a vast and massive research while writing her books. In this book, Chakraborty also provide her source regarding the pirates world especially in 12th century. While the book is fictional, some of the elements can be traced to its origins. I like the myth behind the Moon of the Saba and snickered when knowing the real explanation behind the artifact. Reading this book is never a dull moment! The story told entirely from Amina's first PoV in a form of her telling her story (and pursuits) to a young scribe named Jamal al-Hilli. So, basically some part can be tongue-in-cheek to read. I'm not kidding when said that the book's tone is light although there's some life and death moments, problems just keep coming for Amina and her crews and also Amina try to keep her daughter, Marjana, safe from harm.
The found family trope is well wonder and I like that Amina and her crews reunited and they are also eager for any chance of adventure. Amina's crews also diverse, from Dalila, a Christian woman famed with her poisons and hail from Banu Sasan. Amina's first mate, a gay Hindu man named Tinbu that managed to keep Marawati in a good shape and almost got hanged because of brigand crime but saved by Amina and Dalila. There's Majed, a navigator that already in his third hajji, a big brother figure to Amina and while he already have family, his longing to make a map of world is stronger so he decide to go with Amina in retrieving the kidnapped granddaughter of wealthy woman in Aden who also threatened Amina if Amina can't bring the said granddaughter back. Do I forgot to said that Amina also have four husband?? Not in the same time, mind you, but the fourth husband, Raksh is an actual demon that want to make Amina as a legend, but also cunning. He's also father of Marjana, but Amina still keep that fact to herself so I wondering how long Raksh will keep in the dark regarding Marjana and what is his reaction if he knew he's a father. I also still wondering, what is exactly Raksh. He's not a marid for sure, and also not a peri. If he's an ifrit, since he said he's a being of discord, I remember that ifrit is nastier while Raksh feel like...a himbo, lel. He's also still married to Amina although Amina left him in the chest 10 years prior to the story, and still married in the end of the book. So yeah, curious about them, although I assure there's no romance. The love aspect is more like Amina's mother love for Marjana and I think she has none for Raskh since that demon also responsible for her late crew's death.
I can go on and on about The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi but know this that I really love this book and will recommend it if you searching for a fantasy with adventure, treasure hunting, found family trope, mysterious artifact, treacherous creatures and interesting thought regarding religion and faith.
...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 29, 2024
Mar 31, 2024
Sep 22, 2022
Hardcover
9786230407536
4.41
1,070
2021
Jan 19, 2022
it was amazing
5 bintang
Buku sebagus ini kok jarang yang baca?? Bahkan gue lihat yang ngereview ga sampe ribuan dan reviewnya pun dikit. LIKE, SERIOUSLY???
Buku sebagus ini kok jarang yang baca?? Bahkan gue lihat yang ngereview ga sampe ribuan dan reviewnya pun dikit. LIKE, SERIOUSLY???
Gue dulu beli buku The Shark Caller dari temen karena ada diskonan (ini alasan utama ya hahaha), dan juga tertarik sama covernya (blue is my favorite color!) plus tertarik dengan premisenya tentang pemanggil hiu. Ekspektasi gue awalnya, oh ini fantasy untuk anak - anak, dengan tema yang unik tentang budaya pemanggil hiu dan setting yang juga sama uniknya yaitu di Papua Nugini. Bisa jadi bacaan ringan lah.
Boy, how I was wrong!
The Shark Caller bukanlah cuma buku tentang fantasy atau petualangan bocah - bocah mencari harta karun. Buku ini lebih dari itu. Zillah Bethell melalui buku ini menjabarkan kisah tentang dua anak berusia 12 tahun, Blue Wing dan Maple Hamelin. Awal cerita memang sedikit biasa saja, walau sebenarnya dari awal pun Bethell sudah memberi hints tentang dinamika Blue Wing dan waspapinya, Siringen. Diceritakan seluruhnya dari sudut pandang Blue Wing, pembaca diajak membaca kenapa Blue Wing bersikeras ingin jadi pemanggil hiu, demi balas dendamnya untuk hiu bernama Xok. Lalu interaksinya dengan Maple, bahwa Maple di dalam hatinya masih memendam rasa duka dan penyesalan yang luar biasa sampai awal mereka bertemu, Maple ini orang yang menyebalkan. Sampai akhirnya mereka pun jadi berteman dan membantu ayah Maple, Mr Hamelin untuk mencari harta karun.
Petunjuk - petunjuk di The Shark Caller, tentang Blue Wing, terutama interaksinya dengan Siringen, Maple, Mr Hamelin dan juga si dukun, Chimera, sebenarnya sudah jelas dari awal. Tapi Bethell tetap mengajak pembacanya untuk bertanya dan menduga - duga. Dan begitu semuanya terungkap...seolah semuanya jadi sempurna dalam satu lingkaran. Gue sarankan jangan terlalu banyak baca review dan juga jangan baca bagian belakangnya dulu (ini sih kebiasaan gue yah, jangan ditiru hahaha), supaya surprisenya tetap terjaga. Karena walau kamu mungkin udah bisa nebak...oh begini, tetap akan ada rasa puas saat semuanya jelas. Bethell sendiri juga mungkin berusaha untuk tidak berbelit - belit dalam bercerita, karena buku ini memang ditujukan untuk anak - anak.
Meskipun untuk anak - anak, temanya sendiri cukup universal. Di luar cerita tentang pemanggil hiu, dinamika di Papua Nugini plus penggunaan bahasa Inggris Tok Pisin-nya, tema utama buku ini adalah bagaimana memaafkan diri sendiri dan menghadapi rasa duka. Bethell cukup piawai dalam menjabarkan lima fase duka (penyangkalan, amarah, menawar, depresi dan penerimaan), terutama pada sosok Maple dan Mr Hamelin. Penyampaiannya pun enak dibaca tanpa terasa menggurui. Bahkan untuk hati gue yang menurut gue udah cukup keras karena kenyataan hidup pun, membaca The Shark Caller legit make me (almost) ugly crying. Memang terasa ada beberapa narasi yang tampak bijaksana padahal keluar dari sudut pandang Blue Wing yang notabene baru usia 12an tahun, masih anak - anak. Tapi mungkin juga anak - anak pun sejatinya bisa berpikir lebih pijak ketimbang orang dewasa.
Gue membaca ini hanya dalam waktu singkat, walau harus dibaca dalam beberapa hari karena kesibukan kerja. Alur ceritanya memang tidak terlalu cepat dan bisa dibaca santai, tapi memang unsur misterinya cukup bikin penasaran. Ditambah dengan ilustrasi - ilustrasi didalamnya yang cukup menarik, pun covernya juga sangat catchy. Menyembunyikan fakta kalau ceritanya bikin pengen nangis endingnya, hahaha. Apakah sad ending atau happy end? Bagi gue mah happy yah, karena kan tema utama ceritanya lebih tentang memaafkan diri sendiri dan melanjutkan hidup. Minusnya mungkin masih ada beberapa typo yang cukup kelihatan, pun penggunaan bahasa Tok Pisin cukup nanggung karena hanya sepatah - dua patah kata walaupun tetap ada catatan kaki dan glossary untuk artinya. Tapi untuk terjemahannya, menurut gue luwes dan enak dibaca, terlepas dari typonya yang lumayan. Oh ya, di bagian belakang buku juga ada sharing dari Bethell tentang kehidupannya dulu di Papua Nugini dan trivia tentang hiu dan info untuk konservasi hiu. Selain itu kalau kamu baca ini sama temen atau klub buku ada list pertanyaan untuk jadi bahan diskusi.
The Shark Caller jadi salah satu buku favorite gue di 2023 ini dan juga my first 5* in this year (lol, akhirnya). Ngelihat pembacanya kok dikit banget, jadi sedih deh. Karena buku ini menurut gue lebih daripada sekedar cerita pemanggil hiu. Buku ini bakal bikin hati merasa tersayat - sayat tapi juga hangat pada akhirnya. Recommended!!
...more
Buku sebagus ini kok jarang yang baca?? Bahkan gue lihat yang ngereview ga sampe ribuan dan reviewnya pun dikit. LIKE, SERIOUSLY???
"aku5 bintang
Buku sebagus ini kok jarang yang baca?? Bahkan gue lihat yang ngereview ga sampe ribuan dan reviewnya pun dikit. LIKE, SERIOUSLY???
"aku ingin bisa memanggil hiu. Kau tahu itu. Aku sudah kelewat sering bilang kepadamu, sampai rahangku terasa ngilu setiap kali mengatakannya. Aku ingin bisa memanggi hiu. Ajari aku sihirnya dan tunjukkan kepadaku caranya."
Gue dulu beli buku The Shark Caller dari temen karena ada diskonan (ini alasan utama ya hahaha), dan juga tertarik sama covernya (blue is my favorite color!) plus tertarik dengan premisenya tentang pemanggil hiu. Ekspektasi gue awalnya, oh ini fantasy untuk anak - anak, dengan tema yang unik tentang budaya pemanggil hiu dan setting yang juga sama uniknya yaitu di Papua Nugini. Bisa jadi bacaan ringan lah.
Boy, how I was wrong!
The Shark Caller bukanlah cuma buku tentang fantasy atau petualangan bocah - bocah mencari harta karun. Buku ini lebih dari itu. Zillah Bethell melalui buku ini menjabarkan kisah tentang dua anak berusia 12 tahun, Blue Wing dan Maple Hamelin. Awal cerita memang sedikit biasa saja, walau sebenarnya dari awal pun Bethell sudah memberi hints tentang dinamika Blue Wing dan waspapinya, Siringen. Diceritakan seluruhnya dari sudut pandang Blue Wing, pembaca diajak membaca kenapa Blue Wing bersikeras ingin jadi pemanggil hiu, demi balas dendamnya untuk hiu bernama Xok. Lalu interaksinya dengan Maple, bahwa Maple di dalam hatinya masih memendam rasa duka dan penyesalan yang luar biasa sampai awal mereka bertemu, Maple ini orang yang menyebalkan. Sampai akhirnya mereka pun jadi berteman dan membantu ayah Maple, Mr Hamelin untuk mencari harta karun.
Petunjuk - petunjuk di The Shark Caller, tentang Blue Wing, terutama interaksinya dengan Siringen, Maple, Mr Hamelin dan juga si dukun, Chimera, sebenarnya sudah jelas dari awal. Tapi Bethell tetap mengajak pembacanya untuk bertanya dan menduga - duga. Dan begitu semuanya terungkap...seolah semuanya jadi sempurna dalam satu lingkaran. Gue sarankan jangan terlalu banyak baca review dan juga jangan baca bagian belakangnya dulu (ini sih kebiasaan gue yah, jangan ditiru hahaha), supaya surprisenya tetap terjaga. Karena walau kamu mungkin udah bisa nebak...oh begini, tetap akan ada rasa puas saat semuanya jelas. Bethell sendiri juga mungkin berusaha untuk tidak berbelit - belit dalam bercerita, karena buku ini memang ditujukan untuk anak - anak.
"Rumah bukanlah sekedar bangunan. Itu bukanlah sekedar kumpulan bata atau kayu dengan atap di bagian atasnya. Juga bukanlah sekadar semen atau paku yang menyatukan semuanya. Rumah adalah tempat dimana kau diinginkan. Tempat kau merasa aman dan dicintai. Itulah arti rumah yang sesungguhnya-bukan bahan pembuatnya atau bahkan lokasinya. Rumah adalah tempat kau diterima apa adanya. Tolong, jangan lupakan itu."
Meskipun untuk anak - anak, temanya sendiri cukup universal. Di luar cerita tentang pemanggil hiu, dinamika di Papua Nugini plus penggunaan bahasa Inggris Tok Pisin-nya, tema utama buku ini adalah bagaimana memaafkan diri sendiri dan menghadapi rasa duka. Bethell cukup piawai dalam menjabarkan lima fase duka (penyangkalan, amarah, menawar, depresi dan penerimaan), terutama pada sosok Maple dan Mr Hamelin. Penyampaiannya pun enak dibaca tanpa terasa menggurui. Bahkan untuk hati gue yang menurut gue udah cukup keras karena kenyataan hidup pun, membaca The Shark Caller legit make me (almost) ugly crying. Memang terasa ada beberapa narasi yang tampak bijaksana padahal keluar dari sudut pandang Blue Wing yang notabene baru usia 12an tahun, masih anak - anak. Tapi mungkin juga anak - anak pun sejatinya bisa berpikir lebih pijak ketimbang orang dewasa.
Gue membaca ini hanya dalam waktu singkat, walau harus dibaca dalam beberapa hari karena kesibukan kerja. Alur ceritanya memang tidak terlalu cepat dan bisa dibaca santai, tapi memang unsur misterinya cukup bikin penasaran. Ditambah dengan ilustrasi - ilustrasi didalamnya yang cukup menarik, pun covernya juga sangat catchy. Menyembunyikan fakta kalau ceritanya bikin pengen nangis endingnya, hahaha. Apakah sad ending atau happy end? Bagi gue mah happy yah, karena kan tema utama ceritanya lebih tentang memaafkan diri sendiri dan melanjutkan hidup. Minusnya mungkin masih ada beberapa typo yang cukup kelihatan, pun penggunaan bahasa Tok Pisin cukup nanggung karena hanya sepatah - dua patah kata walaupun tetap ada catatan kaki dan glossary untuk artinya. Tapi untuk terjemahannya, menurut gue luwes dan enak dibaca, terlepas dari typonya yang lumayan. Oh ya, di bagian belakang buku juga ada sharing dari Bethell tentang kehidupannya dulu di Papua Nugini dan trivia tentang hiu dan info untuk konservasi hiu. Selain itu kalau kamu baca ini sama temen atau klub buku ada list pertanyaan untuk jadi bahan diskusi.
"Waktu hanyalah keranjang yang membawa kehidupan dan kematian. Dan semua makhluk yang hidup pasti akan disentuh oleh kematian - mustahil menolaknya. Jadi kematian hanyalah bagian dari kehidupan." Siringen mengangkat bahunya. "Jika kita bisa menerima fakta itu, hidup baru terasa nyata. Hidup. Kematian. Waktu. Semua itu adalah hal yang sangat sederhana."
The Shark Caller jadi salah satu buku favorite gue di 2023 ini dan juga my first 5* in this year (lol, akhirnya). Ngelihat pembacanya kok dikit banget, jadi sedih deh. Karena buku ini menurut gue lebih daripada sekedar cerita pemanggil hiu. Buku ini bakal bikin hati merasa tersayat - sayat tapi juga hangat pada akhirnya. Recommended!!
"Orang bilang waktu akan membuat luka sembuh. Semua orang di dunia mengatakannya. Tapi itu memang benar. Jika kau menunggu cukup lama, kau akan mendapati tidak ada keburukan yang cukup buruk untuk mengubah segalanya. Orang akan selalu kembali menjadi diri mereka seperti saat dilahirkan. Seperti halnya kematian, itu juga sesuatu yang tidak dihindarkan."
...more
Notes are private!
1
Feb 04, 2023
Feb 07, 2023
Jun 07, 2022
Paperback
1496735080
9781496735089
1496735080
4.29
3,338
Dec 27, 2022
Dec 27, 2022
really liked it
4 stars
Ah, this. This is the G.A.Aiken that I know! After The Blacksmith Queen and The Princess Knight that feel awkward, The Heretic Royal have all 4 stars
Ah, this. This is the G.A.Aiken that I know! After The Blacksmith Queen and The Princess Knight that feel awkward, The Heretic Royal have all the Aiken trademark that I know. Less bantering dialogue that somehow not that funny to read, more description and political machinations. MORE DRAGON!!!! I think the appearance of Anwyll the Bloody and the rest of the Cadwaladr dragons is the saving grace of this book although the Smythe sisters still one of the main focus of the story. But the Scarred Earth centaurs? Hmm, for a series named after their clan, not only the hero of this book is from their branch (Torn Moon Clan) that holding grudge after them for 7 thousand years, the amount of the centaurs also kinda overshadow with dragons. But, hey, I love dragons. I will take the antique Cadwaladr dragons every time.
The stake is higher and unlike book 2, we will get glimpse into Beatrix's machination. From other perspective, reader always told that Beatrix is soulless, cruel and cunning. In The Heretic Royal, Aiken prove that Beatrix is actually, yes cruel and cunning. But about the soulless part, I don't know if Aiken will make Beatrix redeemable in the end or end up despised because her cruelties is still in the tame level. More like she's determined to be on power and I think what she did is just your usual tyrant's machinations.
If you had not read Dragon Kin series, chance you will get confused. For me, this book feels like a nostalgia. A moment to catch up with beloved characters from Dragon Kin. Sure that Anwyll might overshadow Keeley a bit, but I like how Aiken portrayed Keeley's fear toward Anwyll and unsure of being queen. Also how Anwyll didn't mince words when she pointed to Keeley's weakness because Keeley still hesitant to kill Beatrix and end up her reign. However, Gemma is a lil bit annoying toward Ainsley because she just love being mean. Speaking of Ainsley, yeah, I know the Heretic Royal is her book but she sharing spotlight with so many characters! Although she find companion with one of the war monk and the nun also got a new ride from the spawn of the unholy horse that is Gemma's war horse. As for Gruffyn or Gruff, I'm surprised to find he has personality and better than Caid. Sure Quinn is my favorite of centaurs because of his easy going attitude but Gruff himself is not bad. He's like to grunt but become chatty when it comes to Ainsley and while their romance is just a few it's still better written compared to Keeley and Caid. Poor this couple, I don't think Aiken write their romance to be believable and work as couple since their chemistry is a little bit bland compared to Gemma-Quinn and Ainsley-Gruff. What make me surprised is the amount of the steam this book has! Wow, an entire chapter (a LONG chapter and not one or two pages!!) dedicated to Ainsley and Gruff having sex, also very hot and show how much they want each other!! Yowza!
Aiken herself adding some new characters and there's still a fast change of PoV but the change now is more bearable. Less slapstick humor compared to the previous although some characters behave crazily like usual. The banter not only between Ainsley or her siblings, but also the Cadwaladr, from Gwenvael that still has his mischievous and narcissistic side, Briec that love to put fight with Anwyll , Fearghus that always ready to remind Anwyll together with his sister, Morfydd. Also, some of surprise appearance by Bram and Ghleanna also one of Gwenvael's son, Unvarr Reinholdt. Oh, how I miss their antique! Also, it's funny how the Smythe sisters have dangerous animals as their pet. Keeley with her demon dog/wolves, Gemma with her undead war horse and Ainsley also have a predatory bird also one of Gemma's war horse magickal spawn. The never ending children of Smythe family also got introduced like Isadora that excel in managing Anwyll and her envoy, then the adorable Endelyon (or Endolyn. Idk, the names keep changing!) that got pampered by Anwyll. For now from the 12 children of Smythe, there was 8 child that have their name introduced (Keeley, Gemma, Beatrix, Ainsley, Isadora, Rexie, Duncan, Endelyon) and I'm curious about the rest. There's just a minor appearance of Keran, the drunken cousin of Keeley but I don't mind since she's not one of my favorite characters and usually written just for comic reliefs
Sadly, there's no information about when book 4 will be released since Aiken maybe busy writing her Shelly Laurenston's titles. The epilogue show that Beatrix will finally unleash her attacks since she is now have new unholy allies and I wonder how the alliance between Keeley and Anwyll will hold. Maybe the next book will be about Isadora, although Isadora is still in her 17-ish so maybe another characters? Either way, I feel that the end of the war between Keeley and Beatrix is near (or maybe not) so I hope the next book will be released in 1 or 2 years in the future! ...more
Ah, this. This is the G.A.Aiken that I know! After The Blacksmith Queen and The Princess Knight that feel awkward, The Heretic Royal have all 4 stars
Ah, this. This is the G.A.Aiken that I know! After The Blacksmith Queen and The Princess Knight that feel awkward, The Heretic Royal have all the Aiken trademark that I know. Less bantering dialogue that somehow not that funny to read, more description and political machinations. MORE DRAGON!!!! I think the appearance of Anwyll the Bloody and the rest of the Cadwaladr dragons is the saving grace of this book although the Smythe sisters still one of the main focus of the story. But the Scarred Earth centaurs? Hmm, for a series named after their clan, not only the hero of this book is from their branch (Torn Moon Clan) that holding grudge after them for 7 thousand years, the amount of the centaurs also kinda overshadow with dragons. But, hey, I love dragons. I will take the antique Cadwaladr dragons every time.
The stake is higher and unlike book 2, we will get glimpse into Beatrix's machination. From other perspective, reader always told that Beatrix is soulless, cruel and cunning. In The Heretic Royal, Aiken prove that Beatrix is actually, yes cruel and cunning. But about the soulless part, I don't know if Aiken will make Beatrix redeemable in the end or end up despised because her cruelties is still in the tame level. More like she's determined to be on power and I think what she did is just your usual tyrant's machinations.
If you had not read Dragon Kin series, chance you will get confused. For me, this book feels like a nostalgia. A moment to catch up with beloved characters from Dragon Kin. Sure that Anwyll might overshadow Keeley a bit, but I like how Aiken portrayed Keeley's fear toward Anwyll and unsure of being queen. Also how Anwyll didn't mince words when she pointed to Keeley's weakness because Keeley still hesitant to kill Beatrix and end up her reign. However, Gemma is a lil bit annoying toward Ainsley because she just love being mean. Speaking of Ainsley, yeah, I know the Heretic Royal is her book but she sharing spotlight with so many characters! Although she find companion with one of the war monk and the nun also got a new ride from the spawn of the unholy horse that is Gemma's war horse. As for Gruffyn or Gruff, I'm surprised to find he has personality and better than Caid. Sure Quinn is my favorite of centaurs because of his easy going attitude but Gruff himself is not bad. He's like to grunt but become chatty when it comes to Ainsley and while their romance is just a few it's still better written compared to Keeley and Caid. Poor this couple, I don't think Aiken write their romance to be believable and work as couple since their chemistry is a little bit bland compared to Gemma-Quinn and Ainsley-Gruff. What make me surprised is the amount of the steam this book has! Wow, an entire chapter (a LONG chapter and not one or two pages!!) dedicated to Ainsley and Gruff having sex, also very hot and show how much they want each other!! Yowza!
Aiken herself adding some new characters and there's still a fast change of PoV but the change now is more bearable. Less slapstick humor compared to the previous although some characters behave crazily like usual. The banter not only between Ainsley or her siblings, but also the Cadwaladr, from Gwenvael that still has his mischievous and narcissistic side, Briec that love to put fight with Anwyll , Fearghus that always ready to remind Anwyll together with his sister, Morfydd. Also, some of surprise appearance by Bram and Ghleanna also one of Gwenvael's son, Unvarr Reinholdt. Oh, how I miss their antique! Also, it's funny how the Smythe sisters have dangerous animals as their pet. Keeley with her demon dog/wolves, Gemma with her undead war horse and Ainsley also have a predatory bird also one of Gemma's war horse magickal spawn. The never ending children of Smythe family also got introduced like Isadora that excel in managing Anwyll and her envoy, then the adorable Endelyon (or Endolyn. Idk, the names keep changing!) that got pampered by Anwyll. For now from the 12 children of Smythe, there was 8 child that have their name introduced (Keeley, Gemma, Beatrix, Ainsley, Isadora, Rexie, Duncan, Endelyon) and I'm curious about the rest. There's just a minor appearance of Keran, the drunken cousin of Keeley but I don't mind since she's not one of my favorite characters and usually written just for comic reliefs
Sadly, there's no information about when book 4 will be released since Aiken maybe busy writing her Shelly Laurenston's titles. The epilogue show that Beatrix will finally unleash her attacks since she is now have new unholy allies and I wonder how the alliance between Keeley and Anwyll will hold. Maybe the next book will be about Isadora, although Isadora is still in her 17-ish so maybe another characters? Either way, I feel that the end of the war between Keeley and Beatrix is near (or maybe not) so I hope the next book will be released in 1 or 2 years in the future! ...more
Notes are private!
1
May 06, 2024
May 07, 2024
Nov 17, 2021
Paperback
0593335872
9780593335871
0593335872
3.89
1,191
Aug 03, 2021
Aug 03, 2021
really liked it
4 stars
Death in Castle Dark is a cozy mystery that emphasize the coziness, while still retain its mystery elements. It's also slightly gothic with a 4 stars
Death in Castle Dark is a cozy mystery that emphasize the coziness, while still retain its mystery elements. It's also slightly gothic with a mention of Victoria Holt's book (never read hers, to be honest), since the setting was in ACTUAL castle with its secret passages and also a grandiose piano (complete with a map of the castle's room in the start of the book that help me to understand the structure of the castle). This is also the first time I read Veronica Bond (that apparently a pseudonym used by Julia Buckley, another new author to me) and I find that I like her voice already.
Told entirely from Nora Blake's first PoV, I find the premise of the book is unique. A recreated murder mystery located in actual castle that invited its visitor to playing detective (called Inspector) to solve the murder case that recreated by the castle's employee consists of actors and actresses alike. Things got ugly so fast when the murder become real and Nora found the corpse. What I really like from this book beside its coziness is the atmosphere and character's interaction. I had said before that this book have a slightly gothic vibe and Bond stay true to its vibe by writing a chilly scenes when Nora got chased by unknown assailant. Also, since all the suspects are actors, it was tricky to guess the alibi and motives since everyone can lie as easily as breathing. The mystery is solid till the end and I read this book with dread because from Nora's PoV, it will be devastating if the culprit is someone from Castle Dark that she know dearly.
The character's interaction is one of the spotlight and I like the "found family" trope that Bond try to execute here. That's why I really hope the culprit is not one of the castle employee and employer since Nora also bonding (harhar no pun intended) and making friends with them. I also like the addition of the pets, especially the kittens that named after Bronte's siblings and a dog named Hamlet. I'm surprised to see some of romantic elements, not only by Nora and the detective that investigate the case, but also between the actor and actress . Speaking about detective, I like that John Dashiell (or Dash for sort) didn't try to shoo Nora away and constantly ask her if she found anything that will help the case. Nora's family also a supportive family. Sigh, this book is really, really COZY, lol, i can't find anything to complaint except maybe some things that make me go "huh" like when Jade, a teenager that deliver the kitten to Nora said that her father is feminist, I'll be like "umm..okay". Just a matter of preference, though.
I have an enjoyable read with Death in Castle Dark and definitely will read the next. I think if you really love your mystery to be as cozy as possible but with some of gothic vibe, this book is perfect for you.
...more
Death in Castle Dark is a cozy mystery that emphasize the coziness, while still retain its mystery elements. It's also slightly gothic with a 4 stars
Death in Castle Dark is a cozy mystery that emphasize the coziness, while still retain its mystery elements. It's also slightly gothic with a mention of Victoria Holt's book (never read hers, to be honest), since the setting was in ACTUAL castle with its secret passages and also a grandiose piano (complete with a map of the castle's room in the start of the book that help me to understand the structure of the castle). This is also the first time I read Veronica Bond (that apparently a pseudonym used by Julia Buckley, another new author to me) and I find that I like her voice already.
Told entirely from Nora Blake's first PoV, I find the premise of the book is unique. A recreated murder mystery located in actual castle that invited its visitor to playing detective (called Inspector) to solve the murder case that recreated by the castle's employee consists of actors and actresses alike. Things got ugly so fast when the murder become real and Nora found the corpse. What I really like from this book beside its coziness is the atmosphere and character's interaction. I had said before that this book have a slightly gothic vibe and Bond stay true to its vibe by writing a chilly scenes when Nora got chased by unknown assailant. Also, since all the suspects are actors, it was tricky to guess the alibi and motives since everyone can lie as easily as breathing. The mystery is solid till the end and I read this book with dread because from Nora's PoV, it will be devastating if the culprit is someone from Castle Dark that she know dearly.
The character's interaction is one of the spotlight and I like the "found family" trope that Bond try to execute here. That's why I really hope the culprit is not one of the castle employee and employer since Nora also bonding (harhar no pun intended) and making friends with them. I also like the addition of the pets, especially the kittens that named after Bronte's siblings and a dog named Hamlet. I'm surprised to see some of romantic elements, not only by Nora and the detective that investigate the case, but also between the actor and actress . Speaking about detective, I like that John Dashiell (or Dash for sort) didn't try to shoo Nora away and constantly ask her if she found anything that will help the case. Nora's family also a supportive family. Sigh, this book is really, really COZY, lol, i can't find anything to complaint except maybe some things that make me go "huh" like when Jade, a teenager that deliver the kitten to Nora said that her father is feminist, I'll be like "umm..okay". Just a matter of preference, though.
I have an enjoyable read with Death in Castle Dark and definitely will read the next. I think if you really love your mystery to be as cozy as possible but with some of gothic vibe, this book is perfect for you.
...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 19, 2024
Mar 21, 2024
Nov 15, 2021
Mass Market Paperback
9786232422780
4.21
27,829
Oct 26, 2021
Oct 05, 2021
really liked it
4 bintang
Kesimpulan setelah baca karya terbaru Rick Riordan ini adalah: Agak TIDAK MASUK DI AKAL tapi ceritanya memang SANGAT menghibur.
Agak kontradiktif? Mungkin, lol. Gue benernya berpendapat fiction itu sebenarnya kudu make sense, tapi ya..emang agak outlandish ceritanya Daughter of the Deep ini. Buku ini (mungkin) adalah karya Rick Riordan pertama yang berbau science fiction setelah belio berkutat dengan banyak mitologi untuk dunia Percy Jackson (dan serial turunannya) serta Kane Chronicles. Daughter of Deep bisa dibilang sangat terinspirasi karya Jules Verne, terutama tentang Captain Nemo. Halah, nama keluarga Ana saja sudah jelas ada hubungannya dengan Nemo yang bernama asli Prince Dakkar. Apalagi pendahuluan dari Roshani Choksi dan Rick Riordan sendiri di awal buku ini juga menyatakan demikian (jadinya mayan agak spoiler dikit bahkan sebelum cerita dimulai).
Wait...Captain Nemo bukannya karakter fiksinya Jules Verne? Nah, di karangan fiksinya Rick Riordan, Nemo ini tokoh nyata (apakah ini yang dinamakan Fictiception? Fiksi dalam fiksi?). Walau anak istrinya tewas dibunuh tentara Inggris, ternyata ada salah satu anak Captain Nemo yang selamat dan beranak pinak sampai akhirnya ke Ana Dakkar. Di buku ini memang kisahnya tentang asrama sekolah menengah yang singkatannya aja diamini oleh tokoh2nya yaitu HP, lol. Sama - sama empat asrama dengan simbol hewan laut yaitu lumba-lumba, hiu, sefalopoda (cumi2/gurita-like, kali2 bingung ini hewan apa) dan orca. Mungkin kalau di Indo, yang jadi maskotnya bisa jadi lele, mujaer, kakap atau rajungan (kamu laper, Ren?). HP yang singkatan dari Harding-Pencroft ini adalah sekolah menengah atas dengan fokus pada dunia kelautan, baik dari segi observasi maupun militer. Teknologinya pokoknya canggih. Apalagi ternyata beberapa teknologi yang diajarkan mengambil sedikit warisan dari Nemo.
Gue emang bilang ceritanya agak ga masuk akal karena ya...Ana and the gank ini masih umur 15an dan bahkan Gemini dari asrama Hiu (dan juga temen2nya) kayak gampang banget bawa pistol. Gue yakin gue dulu seumur Ana yang gue pikirin hanya main setelah sekolah selesai dan hal paling menakutkan itu ujian akhir. Tapi nyatanya bagi Ana, ujian itu juga menakutkan, hahaha. Diceritakan dari sudut pandang orang pertama, gue sempat mikir apa Ana bakal jadi Mary Sue. Apalagi keahliannya sebagai prefek asrama Lumba-lumba itu bisa dibilang keren. Bisa baca gerak bibir orang, polyglot, ilmu spionasenya jalan. Tapi ya itu mungkin emang yang dia pelajari. Yang menyelamatkan Ana dari kategori Mary Sue adalah dia juga penuh kebimbangan dan ketidak pastian apalagi waktu dikasih tanggung jawab cukup besar di pertengahan cerita. Gue juga suka sama sarkasnya Ana, dan yah dia emang berlaku seperti anak umur 15an (dengan kemampuan huebaat dan warisan Captain Nemo). Yang sedikit gue apresiasi disini, Rick Riordan ga segan menjabarkan kondisi Ana pas lagi menstruasi. Jarang2 lho gue baca kayak beginian dan gue juga tentunya merasa terkoneksi sama Ana. Karena ya gue tahu rasanya gimana pas lagi ada kerjaan penting (atau peristiwa penting), terus malah dapat tamu bulanan.
Pesona Daughter of the Deep tentunya bukan cuma Ana aja. Gue suka sama sisterhoodnya Ana dan dua temen deketnya, Nelinha de Silva dan Ester Harding. Ester sendiri autis dan Rick Riordan tampaknya cukup hati2 dalam menceritakan tentang Ester. Tapi ga cuma trio ini saja karena interaksi Ana dengan temen2nya yang lain juga cukup bagus. Mungkin agak terlalu ideal karena 16 orang di angkatan kelas 9 ini (tidak termasuk Nelinha, Ester dan Gemini) bisa begitu percaya sama Ana sebagai pemimpin baru mereka tanpa ada usaha sabotage. Tapi ya sudahlah, mungkin anak2 remaja sebenarnya lebih bisa saling memahami satu sama lain ya ketimbang orang dewasa.
Baca buku ini tentunya jadi bikin gue pengen baca karya Jules Verne, terutama 20000 Leagues Under the Sea dan The Mysterious Island. Yang pertama sudah diterjemahkan Elex, yang kedua gue ga tahu. Rick Riordan memasukkan banyak element dari kedua buku itu. Paling kentara tentunya selain Nemo, adalah kapal selamnya yang juga sama terkenalnya yaitu Nautilus. Pendiri Harding-Pencroft adalah tokoh dari Mysterious Island, sementara sekolah saingan HP yaitu Land Institute (LI) dan kapal selam mereka yang dinamai Aronnax diambil dari 20k leagues. Banyak juga unsur lain yang kalau dijabarin malah jadi spoiler entar. Unsur romansanya ga ada walau ada hints menuju kesana. Rasanya juga ga perlu ada, mengingat ini novel kan ditujukan untuk pembaca muda yah. Tapi unsur kekerasannya sendiri sudah lumayan, mengingat anak - anak usia tanggung sudah dibebani tanggung jawab luar biasa dan salah satunya adalah penggunaan senjata. Jadi memang perlu pendampingan ortu ya buat yang masih sekolah dasar kalau mereka coba baca buku ini (kalau gue sih ngga yah, udah dewasa juga inih hahaha).
Meskipun ini dibilang stand alone, endingnya sendiri menunjukkan akan ada banyak kemungkinan ceritanya lanjut. Gue sih pengen ada lanjutannya ya, karena petualangan Ana, Nautilus dan teman2 angkatan 9 sayang rasanya kalau ga dilanjutkan. Apalagi bakal menarik kalau ada adegan submarine warfare lagi dan entah ada keajaiban laut dalam apalagi yang bakal Ana dkk temukan.
" Baru sekarang aku menyadari bahwa peran sebagai pemimpin mengharuskan kita belajar untuk berlagak percaya diri padahal sebenarnya kit4 bintang
" Baru sekarang aku menyadari bahwa peran sebagai pemimpin mengharuskan kita belajar untuk berlagak percaya diri padahal sebenarnya kita takut bukan kepalang"
Kesimpulan setelah baca karya terbaru Rick Riordan ini adalah: Agak TIDAK MASUK DI AKAL tapi ceritanya memang SANGAT menghibur.
Agak kontradiktif? Mungkin, lol. Gue benernya berpendapat fiction itu sebenarnya kudu make sense, tapi ya..emang agak outlandish ceritanya Daughter of the Deep ini. Buku ini (mungkin) adalah karya Rick Riordan pertama yang berbau science fiction setelah belio berkutat dengan banyak mitologi untuk dunia Percy Jackson (dan serial turunannya) serta Kane Chronicles. Daughter of Deep bisa dibilang sangat terinspirasi karya Jules Verne, terutama tentang Captain Nemo. Halah, nama keluarga Ana saja sudah jelas ada hubungannya dengan Nemo yang bernama asli Prince Dakkar. Apalagi pendahuluan dari Roshani Choksi dan Rick Riordan sendiri di awal buku ini juga menyatakan demikian (jadinya mayan agak spoiler dikit bahkan sebelum cerita dimulai).
Wait...Captain Nemo bukannya karakter fiksinya Jules Verne? Nah, di karangan fiksinya Rick Riordan, Nemo ini tokoh nyata (apakah ini yang dinamakan Fictiception? Fiksi dalam fiksi?). Walau anak istrinya tewas dibunuh tentara Inggris, ternyata ada salah satu anak Captain Nemo yang selamat dan beranak pinak sampai akhirnya ke Ana Dakkar. Di buku ini memang kisahnya tentang asrama sekolah menengah yang singkatannya aja diamini oleh tokoh2nya yaitu HP, lol. Sama - sama empat asrama dengan simbol hewan laut yaitu lumba-lumba, hiu, sefalopoda (cumi2/gurita-like, kali2 bingung ini hewan apa) dan orca. Mungkin kalau di Indo, yang jadi maskotnya bisa jadi lele, mujaer, kakap atau rajungan (kamu laper, Ren?). HP yang singkatan dari Harding-Pencroft ini adalah sekolah menengah atas dengan fokus pada dunia kelautan, baik dari segi observasi maupun militer. Teknologinya pokoknya canggih. Apalagi ternyata beberapa teknologi yang diajarkan mengambil sedikit warisan dari Nemo.
Gue emang bilang ceritanya agak ga masuk akal karena ya...Ana and the gank ini masih umur 15an dan bahkan Gemini dari asrama Hiu (dan juga temen2nya) kayak gampang banget bawa pistol. Gue yakin gue dulu seumur Ana yang gue pikirin hanya main setelah sekolah selesai dan hal paling menakutkan itu ujian akhir. Tapi nyatanya bagi Ana, ujian itu juga menakutkan, hahaha. Diceritakan dari sudut pandang orang pertama, gue sempat mikir apa Ana bakal jadi Mary Sue. Apalagi keahliannya sebagai prefek asrama Lumba-lumba itu bisa dibilang keren. Bisa baca gerak bibir orang, polyglot, ilmu spionasenya jalan. Tapi ya itu mungkin emang yang dia pelajari. Yang menyelamatkan Ana dari kategori Mary Sue adalah dia juga penuh kebimbangan dan ketidak pastian apalagi waktu dikasih tanggung jawab cukup besar di pertengahan cerita. Gue juga suka sama sarkasnya Ana, dan yah dia emang berlaku seperti anak umur 15an (dengan kemampuan huebaat dan warisan Captain Nemo). Yang sedikit gue apresiasi disini, Rick Riordan ga segan menjabarkan kondisi Ana pas lagi menstruasi. Jarang2 lho gue baca kayak beginian dan gue juga tentunya merasa terkoneksi sama Ana. Karena ya gue tahu rasanya gimana pas lagi ada kerjaan penting (atau peristiwa penting), terus malah dapat tamu bulanan.
Pesona Daughter of the Deep tentunya bukan cuma Ana aja. Gue suka sama sisterhoodnya Ana dan dua temen deketnya, Nelinha de Silva dan Ester Harding. Ester sendiri autis dan Rick Riordan tampaknya cukup hati2 dalam menceritakan tentang Ester. Tapi ga cuma trio ini saja karena interaksi Ana dengan temen2nya yang lain juga cukup bagus. Mungkin agak terlalu ideal karena 16 orang di angkatan kelas 9 ini (tidak termasuk Nelinha, Ester dan Gemini) bisa begitu percaya sama Ana sebagai pemimpin baru mereka tanpa ada usaha sabotage. Tapi ya sudahlah, mungkin anak2 remaja sebenarnya lebih bisa saling memahami satu sama lain ya ketimbang orang dewasa.
Baca buku ini tentunya jadi bikin gue pengen baca karya Jules Verne, terutama 20000 Leagues Under the Sea dan The Mysterious Island. Yang pertama sudah diterjemahkan Elex, yang kedua gue ga tahu. Rick Riordan memasukkan banyak element dari kedua buku itu. Paling kentara tentunya selain Nemo, adalah kapal selamnya yang juga sama terkenalnya yaitu Nautilus. Pendiri Harding-Pencroft adalah tokoh dari Mysterious Island, sementara sekolah saingan HP yaitu Land Institute (LI) dan kapal selam mereka yang dinamai Aronnax diambil dari 20k leagues. Banyak juga unsur lain yang kalau dijabarin malah jadi spoiler entar. Unsur romansanya ga ada walau ada hints menuju kesana. Rasanya juga ga perlu ada, mengingat ini novel kan ditujukan untuk pembaca muda yah. Tapi unsur kekerasannya sendiri sudah lumayan, mengingat anak - anak usia tanggung sudah dibebani tanggung jawab luar biasa dan salah satunya adalah penggunaan senjata. Jadi memang perlu pendampingan ortu ya buat yang masih sekolah dasar kalau mereka coba baca buku ini (kalau gue sih ngga yah, udah dewasa juga inih hahaha).
Meskipun ini dibilang stand alone, endingnya sendiri menunjukkan akan ada banyak kemungkinan ceritanya lanjut. Gue sih pengen ada lanjutannya ya, karena petualangan Ana, Nautilus dan teman2 angkatan 9 sayang rasanya kalau ga dilanjutkan. Apalagi bakal menarik kalau ada adegan submarine warfare lagi dan entah ada keajaiban laut dalam apalagi yang bakal Ana dkk temukan.
"Aku meyakini bahwa komunikasi dapat memecahkan persoalan apapun jika pihak - pihak terkait memiliki kehendak dan kecerdasan untuk belajar saling memahami"...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 25, 2022
Mar 29, 2022
Oct 10, 2021
Paperback
149672125X
9781496721259
149672125X
4.30
5,692
Nov 24, 2020
Nov 24, 2020
really liked it
4 stars
As chaotic and full of snarky humor like The Blacksmith Queen, The Princess Knight is book 2 of Scarred Earth Saga featuring Gemma Smythe, th 4 stars
As chaotic and full of snarky humor like The Blacksmith Queen, The Princess Knight is book 2 of Scarred Earth Saga featuring Gemma Smythe, the second oldest Smythe sister and a war monk. The story itself happen 2 years after Keeley become the queen from the prophecy and going to war with another Smythe's daughter, the soulless Beatrix. To be honest, I enjoy Gemma's story more compared to Keeley's, maybe because the world building already established although Aiken keep adding new characters. The constantly changing PoVs can be too exhausted or confusing to read although all of them written from 3rd PoV. As for me, I know that the fast changing PoV is one of Aiken's trademark, together with snarky female heroines and back and forth comedy between its characters.
Gemma herself is snarkier and grumpier compared to Keeley. I think I prefer reading about Gemma, because in this book Keeley kinda like become Anwyll ver. 2 bit by bit although Keeley still maintain her love for animal. But, sigh, do we need another Anywll while one Mad Queen is already enough? I like that despite her warmongering, Gemma loves her brotherhood and devastated when said brotherhood got annihilated by one of Old King's son. As for the romance, just like book 1, more like an afterthought. BUT, I prefer Gemma and Quinn's gradually romance, from friends (or allies) to lover compared to Keeley and Caid in book #1. Goodness, it's like the romance in book 1 written just so the book can be considered as fantasy romance and I don't get the chemistry between Keeley and Caid. While for Gemma and Quinn, their friendship already happen from the beginning, their witty banter is funny and the romance is more believable so they work as a couple. Quinn himself also have a more lively personality compared to Caid in book 1 that barely there. Also the steamy scenes are written well.
Plot wise, the ever growing characters make it hard to follow, together with constantly changing PoV. But the fast pace kinda amend that. Compared with book #1, book #2 deal with religious sect in the Black Hills since they become target to be annihilated by Cyrus since Cyrus only want one religion to be accepted in Black Hills. Heh, feels familiar already. After introduced to war monk, we will get characters that are temple virgins (I don't know what differentiate them from shrine maiden. Because they are virgin?), war priest (no, don't know what make them different with war monk), divine assassins, truce vicar (basically, a peacemaker?), Abbess nun that love to smash her enemy regarding her meek appearance and many others. The centaurs also still one of the main player and the gods make cameos. The gods part kinda irked me because Keeley is just like Anwyll with both of them greeted by gods despite they are kinda didn't believe in gods at the first place.
The epilogue will be hilarious if you had read Dragon Kin series and a sign that Aiken will continue Dragon Kin story with incorporated them into Scarred Earth saga. For a series that called Scarred Earth, the centaurs kinda not the main spotlight so I don't get why use their clan name if the story focused more to Smythe's sisters? The next book, The Heretic Royal will be about Ainsley, the fourth oldest daughter (Keeley have 11 siblings after all), that just got introduced in book 2. Funny thing about Ainsley is, she's so invisible her siblings forget about her! While the humor about Keeley and Gemma always forget Ainsley's existence can be too tiresome to read, I want to read Ainsley's story just because the Cadwaladr dragons will be part of her story as well! ...more
As chaotic and full of snarky humor like The Blacksmith Queen, The Princess Knight is book 2 of Scarred Earth Saga featuring Gemma Smythe, th 4 stars
As chaotic and full of snarky humor like The Blacksmith Queen, The Princess Knight is book 2 of Scarred Earth Saga featuring Gemma Smythe, the second oldest Smythe sister and a war monk. The story itself happen 2 years after Keeley become the queen from the prophecy and going to war with another Smythe's daughter, the soulless Beatrix. To be honest, I enjoy Gemma's story more compared to Keeley's, maybe because the world building already established although Aiken keep adding new characters. The constantly changing PoVs can be too exhausted or confusing to read although all of them written from 3rd PoV. As for me, I know that the fast changing PoV is one of Aiken's trademark, together with snarky female heroines and back and forth comedy between its characters.
Gemma herself is snarkier and grumpier compared to Keeley. I think I prefer reading about Gemma, because in this book Keeley kinda like become Anwyll ver. 2 bit by bit although Keeley still maintain her love for animal. But, sigh, do we need another Anywll while one Mad Queen is already enough? I like that despite her warmongering, Gemma loves her brotherhood and devastated when said brotherhood got annihilated by one of Old King's son. As for the romance, just like book 1, more like an afterthought. BUT, I prefer Gemma and Quinn's gradually romance, from friends (or allies) to lover compared to Keeley and Caid in book #1. Goodness, it's like the romance in book 1 written just so the book can be considered as fantasy romance and I don't get the chemistry between Keeley and Caid. While for Gemma and Quinn, their friendship already happen from the beginning, their witty banter is funny and the romance is more believable so they work as a couple. Quinn himself also have a more lively personality compared to Caid in book 1 that barely there. Also the steamy scenes are written well.
Plot wise, the ever growing characters make it hard to follow, together with constantly changing PoV. But the fast pace kinda amend that. Compared with book #1, book #2 deal with religious sect in the Black Hills since they become target to be annihilated by Cyrus since Cyrus only want one religion to be accepted in Black Hills. Heh, feels familiar already. After introduced to war monk, we will get characters that are temple virgins (I don't know what differentiate them from shrine maiden. Because they are virgin?), war priest (no, don't know what make them different with war monk), divine assassins, truce vicar (basically, a peacemaker?), Abbess nun that love to smash her enemy regarding her meek appearance and many others. The centaurs also still one of the main player and the gods make cameos. The gods part kinda irked me because Keeley is just like Anwyll with both of them greeted by gods despite they are kinda didn't believe in gods at the first place.
The epilogue will be hilarious if you had read Dragon Kin series and a sign that Aiken will continue Dragon Kin story with incorporated them into Scarred Earth saga. For a series that called Scarred Earth, the centaurs kinda not the main spotlight so I don't get why use their clan name if the story focused more to Smythe's sisters? The next book, The Heretic Royal will be about Ainsley, the fourth oldest daughter (Keeley have 11 siblings after all), that just got introduced in book 2. Funny thing about Ainsley is, she's so invisible her siblings forget about her! While the humor about Keeley and Gemma always forget Ainsley's existence can be too tiresome to read, I want to read Ainsley's story just because the Cadwaladr dragons will be part of her story as well! ...more
Notes are private!
1
May 04, 2024
May 05, 2024
Dec 10, 2020
Paperback
0062878395
9780062878397
0062878395
4.43
17,539
Aug 23, 2022
Aug 23, 2022
it was amazing
5 stars, and end up re-read again :))
Do this book answer all my questions and speculations? The answer is, YES.
Do this book deliver after 2 years of 5 stars, and end up re-read again :))
Do this book answer all my questions and speculations? The answer is, YES.
Do this book deliver after 2 years of waiting (im)patiently? Of course, it's deliver!
Before I continue my review, I suggest to read Spoilerific Q&A with House Andrews AFTER you read Ruby Fever (link here: https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/ruby-f...), because wooo boyy...they kinda confirm my ever-growing questions and speculation also answer the aftermath of some events that happen in this book.
Compared to the previous books, Ruby Fever is action-packed from the start to the end. It's have same vibe with Nevada's final book, Wildfire, although the actions is more top the notch in this one. House Andrews (I will shorten it to HA from now) confirm in their Q&A that Ruby Fever supposed to be longer. I too, wished it longer. They say that the original draft is 120k words, but since Avon's requirements are shorter than than (more like 80-100k), they must get creative and cut scenes here and there. I follow their blog, so I knew their frustration and why this book took much longer time to finish (beside, you know, pandemic). This is my personal opinion, I feel like Hidden Legacy didn't really belong into Avon's usual books. I mean, I get that Avon's books are usually purely romance (they also have paranormal romance books like the Jeaniene Frost's ones and many more back when PNR and UF in a high demand), and Hidden Legacy is feel more romantic compared to another HA's series. I just feel that the count of words requirements are pretty silly (although I understand why it the first place), because fantasy (or paranormal romance) with a complex world building and big ensemble cast like Hidden Legacy need a thorough storytelling. I praised for HA to deliver Ruby Fever even with some constraint from their publisher.
Okay, rants over :P. If Sapphire Flames feels like Catalina's introduction and Emerald Blaze major plot tend heavily to investigation with some weakness such as so many description paragraph like about how construct's work, Ruby Fever is anything but. This book tied all loosely thread, especially the final showdown with Arkan. Catalina already matured here, her voice is totally different than Nevada's. While her romance with Alessandro will never as good as Nevada-Rogan, I still love their dynamic. Alessandro's problems are also solved, and yes, the stinky grandfather Sagredo did get his comeuppance. What he did to Alessandro's life and his mother are horrendous, it's make Victoria look like an angel. There's potential of love rival for both sides, but it's merely just minor. Maybe too add more dramatic effect.
I think reader that follow this series from the start already wondering that, is Linus really the grandpa? Or is he Caesar?? Linus, Linus, Linus who are you? Well (view spoiler)[, yeah he's the grandpa. That's make him as Victoria's husband. Or, ex-husband. I don't know if they married or not. And yes, he's also Caesar. No, the Caesar thing is not what we think at first. (hide spoiler)]. HA handle Linus's revelation with ease, and honestly, that's my favorite scene. Another favorite is, Victoria. Oh, she's still evil grandma, but actually, she's not that evil(?). We all see her actions, first through Nevada's lens, then Catalina's. Of course, there were bias, their opinions about Victoria are totally subjective. HA shows that Victoria might be evil, might be heartless, but deep inside, all of her action come from love. Her love for her son, and then her grandchildren. You can said that her love is twisted, pervert, but somehow I can feel her sincerity. I really love how HA tell that why if women act merciful, ruthless and manipulative, she will called evil, yet if the men did it, they get a pass? LOL, that scene really crack me up, complete with (view spoiler)[ Vicky baby, XD. And how Victoria lashes out to Linus and Linus try to calm her. I think Linus really love Victoria and vice versa. It's just he love his ambition more, contrary to Alessandro that choose to love Catalina first rather than focus on his vengeance. Linus and Victoria really are match made in heaven. Both are manipulative, have grey morals, ruthless and will do anything to achieve their goals even if its will dirtied their hands (hide spoiler)].
I can go on and on, but eh, this review is already full of spoilers. So many characters, both new and old. The Russian prince, Konstantin is nice and his personality kinda remind me of Kaldar Mar from The Edge. The scene when Mathilda, a child, intimidate him if he doing anything bad is precious (complete with The Jungle Book comment). I also like that all the Baylor family members and their extended family and allies have roles. Even Augustine have some major role and revelation regarding his illusion's ability and the scene when both he and Konstantin assess each other abilities crack me up. Sadly, not much of Grandma Frida's antiques. We can always have more Grandma Frida :').
The way HA tied all loosely thread is, imho, almost flawless. The amount of retcon is almost to none. If there's a new fact or revelation about character or plot, we must remember that all Hidden Legacy books are told from their main heroine's first PoV. Catalina is a reliable narrator, but didn't mean she's all knowing. That's why sometime she got blindsided, or the last person to know, because that's totally humane. Beside, her minds already preoccupied with so many things. Also, I correct my comment in my Emerald Blaze review about possibility of Alessandro being a dual, since his antistasi ability can null magic, but in the other side he can summons weapons as he please. Re-read Emerald Blaze again and reading Ruby Fever, I'm sure that, nope, Alessandro is not a dual. His ability to summon weapons are part of his Antistasi and the reason behind that will be explained in the book. Although I still think that Antistasi is one of the coolest concept of magic ability. HA also wrote that there's many aspect of Catalina's siren magic, since Catalina suppressed her magic for long and now seems like her magic develop new characteristic. Really, the magic concept of Hidden Legacy is really delicious to read and worthy for further discussion. Especially since all of the magic come from hereditary aspect, therefore there's some genealogy things that affect how magic develop for each person.
Ruby Fever mark the end of Catalina's arc, but I know we all one big question. How about Arabella?? She deserved her story to be told, and although HA stated that their contract with Avon already end, there's possibility that Arabella will get her own HEA. I will totally buy it, either if Avon will extend HA's contract, or they will decide to self-publish. Not like Nevada or Catalina that lucky to have her first love reciprocated, Arabella seems to have many potential love interests! There's the enigmatic Michael from the Office of Record. Then's there Mihail, another Russian prince from Russian Imperium. Wow, the world is totally Arabella's oyster, l0l. But, I'm glad that's there no planning for HA to make Arabella's story into reverse harem and I totally agree with their opinion that young girl like Arabella should dating more men. Catalina here is the exception, because we know that she scared for her siren ability, that's why I said she got lucky when Alessandro that happen to be her first love, really love her back. I can't wait for Arabella's story and honestly, whoever she choose in the end, I will respect her decision. Although I rooted for Arabella and Stephen Jiang in Emerald Blaze, reread EB make me think that, nah, Arabella just got starstruck. But, I'm really dumbfounded when another reader ship Arabella with Augustine, and goodness gracious, Cornelius! It's just...eww, eww, eww. Look, I'm all into character with big age gap, but Augustine and Cornelius is kinda like family friends! They are much much older than Arabella and know her from when she's young. It will be weird.
Right, I should stop here. Hidden Legacy is another great installment from Ilona Andrews, and I suggest to read the first from Burn for Me (yeah, I know. The cover look horrible. I can live with that) because the world building is addictive, the dynamics between character are top the notch, the romance is a plus and the sisterhood between Nevada, Catalina and Arabella also support from their family (Grandma Frida, Penelope, Bern and Leon) and their extended family (Cornelius, Mathilda, Runa, Patricia, Regina, and too many too count!) is what make me love Hidden Legacy in the first place.
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.
.
Yeah, let's the speculation begin! (warning: spoiler galore)
- The BIGGEST QUESTION is of course, Caesar's real identity (view spoiler)[ is Linus? And maybe it's true that he's Baylor siblings grandfather? Will be nice if he's THE Caesar but not their grandfather, or vice versa, lol. Or I hope Caesar's identity will be revealed near the end aka in Arabella's book :P (hide spoiler)]
- Catalina and Allesandro's problem conclusion (view spoiler)[, like, Alessandra Baylor sound nice, but I don't think he will abandon his mother and sister. Will be great if grandpa Sagredo get his comeuppance (hide spoiler)]
- Showdown with Arkan (view spoiler)[ and please remove Xavier from the scene, urgh! While I want Alessandro to beat him for their rematch, I prefer Rogan to teach his not-related-by-blood cousin a lesson. He kinda grated my nerves from Diamond Fire (hide spoiler)]
- What evil scheme Victoria have in mind since (view spoiler)[ the ending of Emerald Blaze give many readers (including me) have heart attack, lol. But you might want to check The Cool Aunt story in Ilona's blog about that (hide spoiler)]
- And finally, hints about Arabella, her story arc and maybee... her love interest? I mean (view spoiler)[ if her love interest is Stephen Jiang, I will be very happy to have Asian character have spotlight and he's the HERO. But if not, well I'm sure Andrews duo will make an interesting hero for Arabella. Plus, I hope that Arabella stay true to her character. I mean, Catalina is shy at first but the condition make her hardened, just like Nevada. I want Arabella to be still happy go lucky. But, yeah, who knows if she will change, right? (hide spoiler)]
All these speculations and...we must wait for a year, lol. Talk about torture.
- ...more
Do this book answer all my questions and speculations? The answer is, YES.
Do this book deliver after 2 years of 5 stars, and end up re-read again :))
Do this book answer all my questions and speculations? The answer is, YES.
Do this book deliver after 2 years of waiting (im)patiently? Of course, it's deliver!
Before I continue my review, I suggest to read Spoilerific Q&A with House Andrews AFTER you read Ruby Fever (link here: https://ilona-andrews.com/2022/ruby-f...), because wooo boyy...they kinda confirm my ever-growing questions and speculation also answer the aftermath of some events that happen in this book.
Compared to the previous books, Ruby Fever is action-packed from the start to the end. It's have same vibe with Nevada's final book, Wildfire, although the actions is more top the notch in this one. House Andrews (I will shorten it to HA from now) confirm in their Q&A that Ruby Fever supposed to be longer. I too, wished it longer. They say that the original draft is 120k words, but since Avon's requirements are shorter than than (more like 80-100k), they must get creative and cut scenes here and there. I follow their blog, so I knew their frustration and why this book took much longer time to finish (beside, you know, pandemic). This is my personal opinion, I feel like Hidden Legacy didn't really belong into Avon's usual books. I mean, I get that Avon's books are usually purely romance (they also have paranormal romance books like the Jeaniene Frost's ones and many more back when PNR and UF in a high demand), and Hidden Legacy is feel more romantic compared to another HA's series. I just feel that the count of words requirements are pretty silly (although I understand why it the first place), because fantasy (or paranormal romance) with a complex world building and big ensemble cast like Hidden Legacy need a thorough storytelling. I praised for HA to deliver Ruby Fever even with some constraint from their publisher.
Okay, rants over :P. If Sapphire Flames feels like Catalina's introduction and Emerald Blaze major plot tend heavily to investigation with some weakness such as so many description paragraph like about how construct's work, Ruby Fever is anything but. This book tied all loosely thread, especially the final showdown with Arkan. Catalina already matured here, her voice is totally different than Nevada's. While her romance with Alessandro will never as good as Nevada-Rogan, I still love their dynamic. Alessandro's problems are also solved, and yes, the stinky grandfather Sagredo did get his comeuppance. What he did to Alessandro's life and his mother are horrendous, it's make Victoria look like an angel. There's potential of love rival for both sides, but it's merely just minor. Maybe too add more dramatic effect.
I think reader that follow this series from the start already wondering that, is Linus really the grandpa? Or is he Caesar?? Linus, Linus, Linus who are you? Well (view spoiler)[, yeah he's the grandpa. That's make him as Victoria's husband. Or, ex-husband. I don't know if they married or not. And yes, he's also Caesar. No, the Caesar thing is not what we think at first. (hide spoiler)]. HA handle Linus's revelation with ease, and honestly, that's my favorite scene. Another favorite is, Victoria. Oh, she's still evil grandma, but actually, she's not that evil(?). We all see her actions, first through Nevada's lens, then Catalina's. Of course, there were bias, their opinions about Victoria are totally subjective. HA shows that Victoria might be evil, might be heartless, but deep inside, all of her action come from love. Her love for her son, and then her grandchildren. You can said that her love is twisted, pervert, but somehow I can feel her sincerity. I really love how HA tell that why if women act merciful, ruthless and manipulative, she will called evil, yet if the men did it, they get a pass? LOL, that scene really crack me up, complete with (view spoiler)[ Vicky baby, XD. And how Victoria lashes out to Linus and Linus try to calm her. I think Linus really love Victoria and vice versa. It's just he love his ambition more, contrary to Alessandro that choose to love Catalina first rather than focus on his vengeance. Linus and Victoria really are match made in heaven. Both are manipulative, have grey morals, ruthless and will do anything to achieve their goals even if its will dirtied their hands (hide spoiler)].
I can go on and on, but eh, this review is already full of spoilers. So many characters, both new and old. The Russian prince, Konstantin is nice and his personality kinda remind me of Kaldar Mar from The Edge. The scene when Mathilda, a child, intimidate him if he doing anything bad is precious (complete with The Jungle Book comment). I also like that all the Baylor family members and their extended family and allies have roles. Even Augustine have some major role and revelation regarding his illusion's ability and the scene when both he and Konstantin assess each other abilities crack me up. Sadly, not much of Grandma Frida's antiques. We can always have more Grandma Frida :').
The way HA tied all loosely thread is, imho, almost flawless. The amount of retcon is almost to none. If there's a new fact or revelation about character or plot, we must remember that all Hidden Legacy books are told from their main heroine's first PoV. Catalina is a reliable narrator, but didn't mean she's all knowing. That's why sometime she got blindsided, or the last person to know, because that's totally humane. Beside, her minds already preoccupied with so many things. Also, I correct my comment in my Emerald Blaze review about possibility of Alessandro being a dual, since his antistasi ability can null magic, but in the other side he can summons weapons as he please. Re-read Emerald Blaze again and reading Ruby Fever, I'm sure that, nope, Alessandro is not a dual. His ability to summon weapons are part of his Antistasi and the reason behind that will be explained in the book. Although I still think that Antistasi is one of the coolest concept of magic ability. HA also wrote that there's many aspect of Catalina's siren magic, since Catalina suppressed her magic for long and now seems like her magic develop new characteristic. Really, the magic concept of Hidden Legacy is really delicious to read and worthy for further discussion. Especially since all of the magic come from hereditary aspect, therefore there's some genealogy things that affect how magic develop for each person.
Ruby Fever mark the end of Catalina's arc, but I know we all one big question. How about Arabella?? She deserved her story to be told, and although HA stated that their contract with Avon already end, there's possibility that Arabella will get her own HEA. I will totally buy it, either if Avon will extend HA's contract, or they will decide to self-publish. Not like Nevada or Catalina that lucky to have her first love reciprocated, Arabella seems to have many potential love interests! There's the enigmatic Michael from the Office of Record. Then's there Mihail, another Russian prince from Russian Imperium. Wow, the world is totally Arabella's oyster, l0l. But, I'm glad that's there no planning for HA to make Arabella's story into reverse harem and I totally agree with their opinion that young girl like Arabella should dating more men. Catalina here is the exception, because we know that she scared for her siren ability, that's why I said she got lucky when Alessandro that happen to be her first love, really love her back. I can't wait for Arabella's story and honestly, whoever she choose in the end, I will respect her decision. Although I rooted for Arabella and Stephen Jiang in Emerald Blaze, reread EB make me think that, nah, Arabella just got starstruck. But, I'm really dumbfounded when another reader ship Arabella with Augustine, and goodness gracious, Cornelius! It's just...eww, eww, eww. Look, I'm all into character with big age gap, but Augustine and Cornelius is kinda like family friends! They are much much older than Arabella and know her from when she's young. It will be weird.
Right, I should stop here. Hidden Legacy is another great installment from Ilona Andrews, and I suggest to read the first from Burn for Me (yeah, I know. The cover look horrible. I can live with that) because the world building is addictive, the dynamics between character are top the notch, the romance is a plus and the sisterhood between Nevada, Catalina and Arabella also support from their family (Grandma Frida, Penelope, Bern and Leon) and their extended family (Cornelius, Mathilda, Runa, Patricia, Regina, and too many too count!) is what make me love Hidden Legacy in the first place.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
.
.
.
Yeah, let's the speculation begin! (warning: spoiler galore)
- The BIGGEST QUESTION is of course, Caesar's real identity (view spoiler)[ is Linus? And maybe it's true that he's Baylor siblings grandfather? Will be nice if he's THE Caesar but not their grandfather, or vice versa, lol. Or I hope Caesar's identity will be revealed near the end aka in Arabella's book :P (hide spoiler)]
- Catalina and Allesandro's problem conclusion (view spoiler)[, like, Alessandra Baylor sound nice, but I don't think he will abandon his mother and sister. Will be great if grandpa Sagredo get his comeuppance (hide spoiler)]
- Showdown with Arkan (view spoiler)[ and please remove Xavier from the scene, urgh! While I want Alessandro to beat him for their rematch, I prefer Rogan to teach his not-related-by-blood cousin a lesson. He kinda grated my nerves from Diamond Fire (hide spoiler)]
- What evil scheme Victoria have in mind since (view spoiler)[ the ending of Emerald Blaze give many readers (including me) have heart attack, lol. But you might want to check The Cool Aunt story in Ilona's blog about that (hide spoiler)]
- And finally, hints about Arabella, her story arc and maybee... her love interest? I mean (view spoiler)[ if her love interest is Stephen Jiang, I will be very happy to have Asian character have spotlight and he's the HERO. But if not, well I'm sure Andrews duo will make an interesting hero for Arabella. Plus, I hope that Arabella stay true to her character. I mean, Catalina is shy at first but the condition make her hardened, just like Nevada. I want Arabella to be still happy go lucky. But, yeah, who knows if she will change, right? (hide spoiler)]
All these speculations and...we must wait for a year, lol. Talk about torture.
- ...more
Notes are private!
1
Sep 03, 2022
Sep 03, 2022
Sep 24, 2020
Mass Market Paperback
1496721209
9781496721204
1496721209
4.07
11,579
Aug 27, 2019
Aug 27, 2019
really liked it
4 stars
Just like your usual Aiken's book, although if you new to her works then her writing style especially the PoV's changing can be too overwhelm 4 stars
Just like your usual Aiken's book, although if you new to her works then her writing style especially the PoV's changing can be too overwhelming. Also, full of dialogue, but there's some narrative too. If you had read her Dragon Kin series, chance you already familiar with the world building though Scarred Earth saga took place in Black Hill and I don't have slighthest idea where is it. There's no map. A map will be nice, especially there's mention of Dark Plain which is Anwyl's territory and one of the Daughter of the Steppes with their ridiculous long name make appearance.
So..new characters, new places, new power dynamic, same family focused theme, sisterhood, female rage, over the top fighting between siblings (still fun) and light romance. The romance is SO LIGHT it's more like an afterthought. So if you want to read romantic relationship between Keeley and Caid, you will be disappointed because their romance more like...err..lukewarm? They have sex just once, but if there's no sex that okay too. Didn't affect the story at all. I think Aiken try to focus to so many things, so the romance got sacrificed. For fantasy aspect and action also violence you get plenty, just like your usual Aiken's trademark.
Even The Blacksmith Queen is about Keeley that come to term with her being a queen from the prophecy and face her little sister, Beatrix's betrayal, the end of the story seems like Keeley's journey is not end yet. The next book, Princess Knight will be about Gemma Smythe, another Keeley's sister whom already suspect Beatrix's evilness while Keeley remain oblivious (or choose to oblivious at first and want to protect Beatrix until Beatrix stab her in the stomach). Just like Dragon Kin, I think Keeley's story will be continue in Gemma's book and there will be many new players to introduced.
A good book if you had read Aiken's works before and worth to try if you new to her books. Also recommended if you like your fantasy romance is heavy on fantasy rather than romance ...more
Just like your usual Aiken's book, although if you new to her works then her writing style especially the PoV's changing can be too overwhelm 4 stars
Just like your usual Aiken's book, although if you new to her works then her writing style especially the PoV's changing can be too overwhelming. Also, full of dialogue, but there's some narrative too. If you had read her Dragon Kin series, chance you already familiar with the world building though Scarred Earth saga took place in Black Hill and I don't have slighthest idea where is it. There's no map. A map will be nice, especially there's mention of Dark Plain which is Anwyl's territory and one of the Daughter of the Steppes with their ridiculous long name make appearance.
So..new characters, new places, new power dynamic, same family focused theme, sisterhood, female rage, over the top fighting between siblings (still fun) and light romance. The romance is SO LIGHT it's more like an afterthought. So if you want to read romantic relationship between Keeley and Caid, you will be disappointed because their romance more like...err..lukewarm? They have sex just once, but if there's no sex that okay too. Didn't affect the story at all. I think Aiken try to focus to so many things, so the romance got sacrificed. For fantasy aspect and action also violence you get plenty, just like your usual Aiken's trademark.
Even The Blacksmith Queen is about Keeley that come to term with her being a queen from the prophecy and face her little sister, Beatrix's betrayal, the end of the story seems like Keeley's journey is not end yet. The next book, Princess Knight will be about Gemma Smythe, another Keeley's sister whom already suspect Beatrix's evilness while Keeley remain oblivious (or choose to oblivious at first and want to protect Beatrix until Beatrix stab her in the stomach). Just like Dragon Kin, I think Keeley's story will be continue in Gemma's book and there will be many new players to introduced.
A good book if you had read Aiken's works before and worth to try if you new to her books. Also recommended if you like your fantasy romance is heavy on fantasy rather than romance ...more
Notes are private!
1
May 2024
May 03, 2024
Dec 04, 2018
Paperback
6025254702
9786025254703
3.92
143
Sep 20, 2018
Sep 20, 2018
really liked it
4 bintang
This is very dark and pretty fuck up, ngl
This is very dark and pretty fuck up, ngl
Notes are private!
1
Mar 12, 2023
Mar 12, 2023
Sep 16, 2018
Hardcover
1943772711
9781943772711
B01MSJJFAC
4.45
32,817
Dec 20, 2016
Dec 20, 2016
really liked it
4 stars
One Feel Sweep (OFS) is the third installment from Innkeeper Chronicles, and Ilona Andrews again, always deliver. Told from Dina Demille's PO 4 stars
One Feel Sweep (OFS) is the third installment from Innkeeper Chronicles, and Ilona Andrews again, always deliver. Told from Dina Demille's POV, OFS once published as free online serial in Andrews's web and when the story finished, they pulled it out, edited and published. I much prefer to read their edited and published edition, even the temptation to read it free is high. But I don't have patience to read online, and beside, the edited version is much satisfying to read.
It's been a year after I read Sweep in Peace, and many - many years after Clean Sweep, so my memories kinda fuzzy. Add it with so many science fiction terms, and tbh SF is not my forte. I can read it, but didn't mean I appreciate it. I kinda forget if Dina's older sister, Maud, mentioned in previous books since I just remember her brother, Klaus. In this book, Dina still try to search her lost parents, and now she reunited with Maud and her child, Helen. Maud is...AWESOME!! She's so badass, once a vampire's wife but now her husband is dead and so she try to defend herself and her kid to survive. Arland is there too...and while in two previous books, he show his interest to Dina, but rest assured, no love triangle. Arland finally found his lady love, in a person that he never think before. I look forward for Arland's romance in the future!
Dina and Sean shipper will rejoice, because finally they accept each other feeling. I remember there's not much Sean in Sweep in Peace, with good reason too, tho. I like that Dina now consider Sean as her boyfriend and didn't hesitate to depend herself to him, although, she's still a badass like before. You know, her occupation as innkeeper is very unique! The concept about innkeeper, the intergalactic inn Gertrude Hunt, theirs ability are what I know that the duo Andrews can make it work. I always think that, beside Brandon Sanderson, Ilona Andrews always write a unique, peculiar magic concept. Aside from the world building concept, I'm glad that Dina come to aggrement with Officer Marais, a human cop that always suspicious with Dina and Gertrude Hunt.
The story kinda dragging a bit in the middle and the scifi terms, characters, environment are kinda overwhelming of sort like I said before. I also think the middle part pace is somehow slow and the plot thickens near the end. The climax is a little bit rushed for my taste, but the surprise elements are still well written. Which come to a fundamental question..that I believe is relevant with the current condition. What is religion anyway?
OFS feature a zealot and fanatical religion that hellbent to destroy the enemy, enemy that Dina treat as a guest in her Inn. This fanatics believe that because their enemy appearance are revolting, they are simply abomination and if they killed them, heaven will guaranted 100 percent for them. Feel familiar? Ilona Andrews write it, without try not too preachy, how fanatical thinking justified every act. How hatred is easier to wield to justify killing. How in the name of heaven and religion, the fanatical will do everything to banish the abomination. They don't care about truth, they don't want to think thoroughly, if "what they do is REALLY right?". When Ilona write the truth behind their enemy, it's very devastating. It's so true. People can justify many thing, killing each other because of religion, and it's still happen until this day. Religion teach about peace, but my friend once said, to achieve world peace is utopia concept, because rather than peace, war always happen because religion.
Serious note aside, I did enjoy One Fell Sweep. While Dina is no Kate, I like her already. I like her determination and strength. I like other characters too, both old and new. I did find it amusing, but also warming, when knowing that Ilona Andrews also have PG-13 version of OFS. Less gore and no sex, even imho, the sex scene is just vanilla :P. It's very kind of them to think about how if teenager read their work, especially OFS was once free serial online that can be read by anyone.
Oh well..I will miss Dina's adventure. The ending is cliffie and Dina may have a clue about her parents whereabouts. Maybe we will meet Klaus (or not), maybe George will there. And while Dina and Sean are established couple right now, I wonder what next obstacle that they will face. But..I gleefully wait for how Arland will woo his ladylove. It's will be fun! ...more
One Feel Sweep (OFS) is the third installment from Innkeeper Chronicles, and Ilona Andrews again, always deliver. Told from Dina Demille's PO 4 stars
One Feel Sweep (OFS) is the third installment from Innkeeper Chronicles, and Ilona Andrews again, always deliver. Told from Dina Demille's POV, OFS once published as free online serial in Andrews's web and when the story finished, they pulled it out, edited and published. I much prefer to read their edited and published edition, even the temptation to read it free is high. But I don't have patience to read online, and beside, the edited version is much satisfying to read.
It's been a year after I read Sweep in Peace, and many - many years after Clean Sweep, so my memories kinda fuzzy. Add it with so many science fiction terms, and tbh SF is not my forte. I can read it, but didn't mean I appreciate it. I kinda forget if Dina's older sister, Maud, mentioned in previous books since I just remember her brother, Klaus. In this book, Dina still try to search her lost parents, and now she reunited with Maud and her child, Helen. Maud is...AWESOME!! She's so badass, once a vampire's wife but now her husband is dead and so she try to defend herself and her kid to survive. Arland is there too...and while in two previous books, he show his interest to Dina, but rest assured, no love triangle. Arland finally found his lady love, in a person that he never think before. I look forward for Arland's romance in the future!
Dina and Sean shipper will rejoice, because finally they accept each other feeling. I remember there's not much Sean in Sweep in Peace, with good reason too, tho. I like that Dina now consider Sean as her boyfriend and didn't hesitate to depend herself to him, although, she's still a badass like before. You know, her occupation as innkeeper is very unique! The concept about innkeeper, the intergalactic inn Gertrude Hunt, theirs ability are what I know that the duo Andrews can make it work. I always think that, beside Brandon Sanderson, Ilona Andrews always write a unique, peculiar magic concept. Aside from the world building concept, I'm glad that Dina come to aggrement with Officer Marais, a human cop that always suspicious with Dina and Gertrude Hunt.
The story kinda dragging a bit in the middle and the scifi terms, characters, environment are kinda overwhelming of sort like I said before. I also think the middle part pace is somehow slow and the plot thickens near the end. The climax is a little bit rushed for my taste, but the surprise elements are still well written. Which come to a fundamental question..that I believe is relevant with the current condition. What is religion anyway?
OFS feature a zealot and fanatical religion that hellbent to destroy the enemy, enemy that Dina treat as a guest in her Inn. This fanatics believe that because their enemy appearance are revolting, they are simply abomination and if they killed them, heaven will guaranted 100 percent for them. Feel familiar? Ilona Andrews write it, without try not too preachy, how fanatical thinking justified every act. How hatred is easier to wield to justify killing. How in the name of heaven and religion, the fanatical will do everything to banish the abomination. They don't care about truth, they don't want to think thoroughly, if "what they do is REALLY right?". When Ilona write the truth behind their enemy, it's very devastating. It's so true. People can justify many thing, killing each other because of religion, and it's still happen until this day. Religion teach about peace, but my friend once said, to achieve world peace is utopia concept, because rather than peace, war always happen because religion.
Serious note aside, I did enjoy One Fell Sweep. While Dina is no Kate, I like her already. I like her determination and strength. I like other characters too, both old and new. I did find it amusing, but also warming, when knowing that Ilona Andrews also have PG-13 version of OFS. Less gore and no sex, even imho, the sex scene is just vanilla :P. It's very kind of them to think about how if teenager read their work, especially OFS was once free serial online that can be read by anyone.
Oh well..I will miss Dina's adventure. The ending is cliffie and Dina may have a clue about her parents whereabouts. Maybe we will meet Klaus (or not), maybe George will there. And while Dina and Sean are established couple right now, I wonder what next obstacle that they will face. But..I gleefully wait for how Arland will woo his ladylove. It's will be fun! ...more
Notes are private!
1
Mar 12, 2017
Mar 13, 2017
Nov 03, 2016
ebook
0441013406
9780441013401
0441013406
4.27
71,366
2005
Feb 2010
it was amazing
5 stars
After Furies of Calderon succesfully blown me away, the next installment of the Codex Alera series, Academ's Fury apparently did the same. Thi 5 stars
After Furies of Calderon succesfully blown me away, the next installment of the Codex Alera series, Academ's Fury apparently did the same. This book, despite its thick and tasty length, able to awake me from my reading slump for almost 2 months. As expected from Jim Butcher, with his vivid story telling and his story crafting that feel like magic, more than any fury crafting that happen in this book.
Two years after the event in Furies of Calderon, Second Battle of Calderon Valley that happen between Aleran and their barbarian enemy, The Marat, Tavi of Calderon now become a page for First Lord of Alera, Gaius Sextus. While he also pursue his career as Cursor (aka First Lord's Messenger) in Academ. Don't worry, the story didn't fall in Harry Potteresque story type. Quite opposite in fact, since Tavi's study just shown a little and he already in his final phase. Since he's furyless, aka can't conjure his own fury. Tavi considered as freak and have enemy that remind me of Draco Malfoy &co. Just meanier. Lucky for Tavi, he also have his comrade that remind me of Ron and Hermione in Ehren and Gaelle. Afraid not, this doesn't mean Jim Butcher copy Rowling blatantly, because Tavi also befriend Antillar Maximus who will help Tavi in so many problems that the boy manage.
Like usual, Butcher told story in this book from so many person narative. Beside Tavi, there are Bernard and Amara's who know didn't shy away to show affection to each other despite Amara's worry that she didn't suitable to be Bernard's wife. Quite romantic, and I never mind romance subplot. I'm glad that Butcher insert it so it make the story make sense. Then, there was Gaius Sextus himself with his loyal captain, Miles. Butcher also told story from Isana, Bernard's sister that from the latest event now become a first woman steadholder. A fact that endanger Isana, since women still considered as second class citizen in Alera. Isana herself think that Gaius decision to make her steadholder more like politic and she hate that Gaius took Tavi from her. But Isana can't run from her destiny and sooner or later, she must go to the Imperial Capital to walk between a snake nest that is High Lords and their cohorts. While she must choose, who she must allied with. Even with enemy itself.
The problem is now bigger than the first book, because while Aleran kinda have peace with the Marat, now a sinister malice crept and tend to threat Aleran's peace. The Marat warn that the Vord, a parasitic creature have escape from their hide and ready to take all Aleran, Marat or any living alike. They are dangerous, since people who possessed by the Vord will be like zombies. The threat begin in Calderon, and Bernard, Amara and the Marat chieftain, Doroga must join force to drive the Vord from reaching further while their resources are limited.
Meanwhile, Tavi also have big problem because Gaius health faltering and he must cover his Lord's condition if he didn't want the Empire in uproar and some High Lords that already conspired to coup d'etat will attack Imperial when they see a chance. Isana is frantic to reach Gaius, but she almost assassinated and the result is make her somehow a traitor. On the other side, the Canim, a beast man clan that have thin peace with Aleran have strange moves toward Alera, even their Ambassador already warn Tavi about that. And without Tavi realize, the Vord already reach Imperial and prepare the next move.
Such a busy event that happen in Academ's Fury! No wonder this book is 700 pages long! But, Butcher's writing style able to make me impatient to read pages after pages. Make me want to end this book in one sitting. Sure there some part that Butcher like to prolong, like war between the Vord and Calderon. The despair is apparent and make me want to pull my hair because I want Bernard and Amara to win while their source are limited. I want Gaius just wake up and send forces to help Calderon and finish the war, because yeah, the battle with the Vord is frustated to read. Frustated but still I enjoy it nonetheless.
What I love is how Butcher portrayed women in this book. He write them not as secondary characters, but as individual that strong and standing in their own feet. From Amara, Isana, then Serai, a courtesan that more that it seems. I really like Serai because she help Isana to understand how the politic in Imperial work. How to thread carefully between the thread of lies and deceits. Even Tavi have his own match in Kitai, the Marat girl that also daughter of Doroga. There is also High Lady Placida Aria who have high authority and charisma, provide a useful help for Tavi when he's in problem. And then, there is Lady Invidia Aquitaine, a lady that also cunning like her husband who become enemy to First Lord, or even more cunning and calculated. Her power is so great and her tactic is delightful to read. Butcher sure know how to write women characters. Not place them as victim, but as a character and that a plus for this book.
I can go on and on about this book, but I think I already write too long. I just wanna said that if you love epic fantasy, you must read this. If you like a zero to hero kind of story, you must read this. If You like fantasy with a bunch of ass kicking heroines, you must read this.
Now, into book #3!! ...more
After Furies of Calderon succesfully blown me away, the next installment of the Codex Alera series, Academ's Fury apparently did the same. Thi 5 stars
After Furies of Calderon succesfully blown me away, the next installment of the Codex Alera series, Academ's Fury apparently did the same. This book, despite its thick and tasty length, able to awake me from my reading slump for almost 2 months. As expected from Jim Butcher, with his vivid story telling and his story crafting that feel like magic, more than any fury crafting that happen in this book.
Two years after the event in Furies of Calderon, Second Battle of Calderon Valley that happen between Aleran and their barbarian enemy, The Marat, Tavi of Calderon now become a page for First Lord of Alera, Gaius Sextus. While he also pursue his career as Cursor (aka First Lord's Messenger) in Academ. Don't worry, the story didn't fall in Harry Potteresque story type. Quite opposite in fact, since Tavi's study just shown a little and he already in his final phase. Since he's furyless, aka can't conjure his own fury. Tavi considered as freak and have enemy that remind me of Draco Malfoy &co. Just meanier. Lucky for Tavi, he also have his comrade that remind me of Ron and Hermione in Ehren and Gaelle. Afraid not, this doesn't mean Jim Butcher copy Rowling blatantly, because Tavi also befriend Antillar Maximus who will help Tavi in so many problems that the boy manage.
Like usual, Butcher told story in this book from so many person narative. Beside Tavi, there are Bernard and Amara's who know didn't shy away to show affection to each other despite Amara's worry that she didn't suitable to be Bernard's wife. Quite romantic, and I never mind romance subplot. I'm glad that Butcher insert it so it make the story make sense. Then, there was Gaius Sextus himself with his loyal captain, Miles. Butcher also told story from Isana, Bernard's sister that from the latest event now become a first woman steadholder. A fact that endanger Isana, since women still considered as second class citizen in Alera. Isana herself think that Gaius decision to make her steadholder more like politic and she hate that Gaius took Tavi from her. But Isana can't run from her destiny and sooner or later, she must go to the Imperial Capital to walk between a snake nest that is High Lords and their cohorts. While she must choose, who she must allied with. Even with enemy itself.
The problem is now bigger than the first book, because while Aleran kinda have peace with the Marat, now a sinister malice crept and tend to threat Aleran's peace. The Marat warn that the Vord, a parasitic creature have escape from their hide and ready to take all Aleran, Marat or any living alike. They are dangerous, since people who possessed by the Vord will be like zombies. The threat begin in Calderon, and Bernard, Amara and the Marat chieftain, Doroga must join force to drive the Vord from reaching further while their resources are limited.
Meanwhile, Tavi also have big problem because Gaius health faltering and he must cover his Lord's condition if he didn't want the Empire in uproar and some High Lords that already conspired to coup d'etat will attack Imperial when they see a chance. Isana is frantic to reach Gaius, but she almost assassinated and the result is make her somehow a traitor. On the other side, the Canim, a beast man clan that have thin peace with Aleran have strange moves toward Alera, even their Ambassador already warn Tavi about that. And without Tavi realize, the Vord already reach Imperial and prepare the next move.
Such a busy event that happen in Academ's Fury! No wonder this book is 700 pages long! But, Butcher's writing style able to make me impatient to read pages after pages. Make me want to end this book in one sitting. Sure there some part that Butcher like to prolong, like war between the Vord and Calderon. The despair is apparent and make me want to pull my hair because I want Bernard and Amara to win while their source are limited. I want Gaius just wake up and send forces to help Calderon and finish the war, because yeah, the battle with the Vord is frustated to read. Frustated but still I enjoy it nonetheless.
What I love is how Butcher portrayed women in this book. He write them not as secondary characters, but as individual that strong and standing in their own feet. From Amara, Isana, then Serai, a courtesan that more that it seems. I really like Serai because she help Isana to understand how the politic in Imperial work. How to thread carefully between the thread of lies and deceits. Even Tavi have his own match in Kitai, the Marat girl that also daughter of Doroga. There is also High Lady Placida Aria who have high authority and charisma, provide a useful help for Tavi when he's in problem. And then, there is Lady Invidia Aquitaine, a lady that also cunning like her husband who become enemy to First Lord, or even more cunning and calculated. Her power is so great and her tactic is delightful to read. Butcher sure know how to write women characters. Not place them as victim, but as a character and that a plus for this book.
I can go on and on about this book, but I think I already write too long. I just wanna said that if you love epic fantasy, you must read this. If you like a zero to hero kind of story, you must read this. If You like fantasy with a bunch of ass kicking heroines, you must read this.
Now, into book #3!! ...more
Notes are private!
1
Jul 20, 2015
Jul 22, 2015
Feb 02, 2015
Paperback
0425251268
9780425251263
0425251268
4.42
18,994
Sep 01, 2015
Sep 01, 2015
it was amazing
RE-READ in order to read Archangel's Prophecy and Archangel's War
Also part of my Guild Hunter series read-a-thon. 2 books more so I can finally read RE-READ in order to read Archangel's Prophecy and Archangel's War
Also part of my Guild Hunter series read-a-thon. 2 books more so I can finally read Prophecy and War back to back, yaaaaas!!
Original review below already summed up my feeling, and after re-read opinion is still pretty much the same. I end up reading the second part twice, though, hahaha. From all Raphael's Seven, Naasir's book by far is the best, in term of story, pace, settings and romantic relationship. I REALLY like how Naasir respect Andromeda's vow of celibacy. Even Andromeda give her consent and want to forget her vow because she desired Naasir back, Naasir still insist he will find the "stupid Grimoire" that is part of Andromeda's vow. If that's not romantic, I don't know what is it. Also I like how playful Naasir is, despite his difficult past.
Also, still on board with Illium and Aodhan's bromance, lol. I don't know, I just can't see they will be romantically involved, even I know their relationship is more than just friend. I think I will wait and see for what Singh will tell, especially after she said that she will write 3 more GH books after Archangel's War
First read review below:
5 stars
Another book by Nalini Singh that simply left me in an awe...
I wish she keep writing Guild Hunter! I know that some of her fans prefer Psy-Changeling or new readers love her Rock Kiss series (is it the right title? I forget it, lol!), but the fact that I always read ANY NEW INSTALLMENT of Guild Hunter ASAP is a reason why I loved this series so much. Guild Hunter which rich in detail and world building, harsh but can be tender sometimes.
Gosh, so much things happen! I think Enigma is better than Shadow, at least it give us insight into angel world. And this book bring readers to travel around the world. From a haunted Beijing -Zhou Lijuan's citadel-. a forgotten city, Amanat that located in Japan, to the dessert of the Middle East, and then to the wilderness that is Africa. Enigma maybe is the most adventurous book compared to another installment, and that's why it's never a dull moment when read this.
Gawd, I love both Naasir and Andromeda! I admit that I'm a little bit skeptical with Andromeda when knowing that she's a librarian of sort. How wrong I am! Yep, she's a scholar, but Andromeda is also a warrior. Being Charisemnon's bloodline, she will do everything she can to defend herself. No, she's not a damsel in distress, even when she abducted by Lijuan, she can bring herself together without doing anything foolish. TSTL and Andromeda is very much antithesis, and I love that because Andromeda is a historian too, her curiosity matched mine. A woman after my heart.
I like that even it's apparent that Naasir desire Andromeda, but since she take a vow of celibacy, he respect her to do so. And it's kinda cute, heartwarming too. I know this kind of a trope, a virgin heroine with much more mature but less civilized hero. But, never, ever Naasir pulled alpha manliness to Andromeda. He's an alpha, but like his sire Raphael, he know how to act alpha while still respect their women. I like how Nalini handle this issue and how the relationship between Naasir and Andromeda is slow but sure. Okay, there are some saccharine dialogue that will give you diabetes, but I don't care!!! Any saccharine words written by Nalini is my crack! :D
I miss Raphael! And Elena too! ;( And no, I don't want to Illium and Aodhan become a romantic couple, lol! Call me conservative, but why two male characters can't have a bromance? If two female charas can be a best friend, why not for the men? The epilogue, while short, already tell everything that will happen in the future. I like how Nalini build the conflict about Cascade one by one. I think it's her strength. It's what make readers want to read another Guild Hunter books. And Lijuan? That very very nasty archangel, she still not done with the world. Yet. So many secrets that waiting to be unravel.
Dang, no info for next book :(. While for Enigma, it's clear from Shadows that Naasir will get his own story, I don't think that Illium or Venom or Aodhan will soon get their own story told. Especially Venom that just have little role, maybe he will just get a novella? Wishful thinking that the story will be back to Raphael and Elena again! :D
For my earlier comment, you can check it below :)
(view spoiler)[Yay, Naasir!! :D Already guess that he will get his own story after his major role in Archangel's Shadow, and yeah, I prefer to read his rather than Illium or Venom.
But, I really miss Elena and Raphael :(. Both are the heart of this series and even the side charas books is good, books about them is much better. Please back again to this couple, Nalini! >.<
The sleeping Archangel in Persia, maybe Alexander. Do that mean Favashi somehow ally herself with Lijuan?
And...who's this Andromeda chick? Never read about her before, so I guess she's a really brand new character. Well I hope she's not a timid angel or archetype (hide spoiler)] ...more
Also part of my Guild Hunter series read-a-thon. 2 books more so I can finally read RE-READ in order to read Archangel's Prophecy and Archangel's War
Also part of my Guild Hunter series read-a-thon. 2 books more so I can finally read Prophecy and War back to back, yaaaaas!!
Original review below already summed up my feeling, and after re-read opinion is still pretty much the same. I end up reading the second part twice, though, hahaha. From all Raphael's Seven, Naasir's book by far is the best, in term of story, pace, settings and romantic relationship. I REALLY like how Naasir respect Andromeda's vow of celibacy. Even Andromeda give her consent and want to forget her vow because she desired Naasir back, Naasir still insist he will find the "stupid Grimoire" that is part of Andromeda's vow. If that's not romantic, I don't know what is it. Also I like how playful Naasir is, despite his difficult past.
Also, still on board with Illium and Aodhan's bromance, lol. I don't know, I just can't see they will be romantically involved, even I know their relationship is more than just friend. I think I will wait and see for what Singh will tell, especially after she said that she will write 3 more GH books after Archangel's War
First read review below:
5 stars
Another book by Nalini Singh that simply left me in an awe...
I wish she keep writing Guild Hunter! I know that some of her fans prefer Psy-Changeling or new readers love her Rock Kiss series (is it the right title? I forget it, lol!), but the fact that I always read ANY NEW INSTALLMENT of Guild Hunter ASAP is a reason why I loved this series so much. Guild Hunter which rich in detail and world building, harsh but can be tender sometimes.
Gosh, so much things happen! I think Enigma is better than Shadow, at least it give us insight into angel world. And this book bring readers to travel around the world. From a haunted Beijing -Zhou Lijuan's citadel-. a forgotten city, Amanat that located in Japan, to the dessert of the Middle East, and then to the wilderness that is Africa. Enigma maybe is the most adventurous book compared to another installment, and that's why it's never a dull moment when read this.
Gawd, I love both Naasir and Andromeda! I admit that I'm a little bit skeptical with Andromeda when knowing that she's a librarian of sort. How wrong I am! Yep, she's a scholar, but Andromeda is also a warrior. Being Charisemnon's bloodline, she will do everything she can to defend herself. No, she's not a damsel in distress, even when she abducted by Lijuan, she can bring herself together without doing anything foolish. TSTL and Andromeda is very much antithesis, and I love that because Andromeda is a historian too, her curiosity matched mine. A woman after my heart.
I like that even it's apparent that Naasir desire Andromeda, but since she take a vow of celibacy, he respect her to do so. And it's kinda cute, heartwarming too. I know this kind of a trope, a virgin heroine with much more mature but less civilized hero. But, never, ever Naasir pulled alpha manliness to Andromeda. He's an alpha, but like his sire Raphael, he know how to act alpha while still respect their women. I like how Nalini handle this issue and how the relationship between Naasir and Andromeda is slow but sure. Okay, there are some saccharine dialogue that will give you diabetes, but I don't care!!! Any saccharine words written by Nalini is my crack! :D
I miss Raphael! And Elena too! ;( And no, I don't want to Illium and Aodhan become a romantic couple, lol! Call me conservative, but why two male characters can't have a bromance? If two female charas can be a best friend, why not for the men? The epilogue, while short, already tell everything that will happen in the future. I like how Nalini build the conflict about Cascade one by one. I think it's her strength. It's what make readers want to read another Guild Hunter books. And Lijuan? That very very nasty archangel, she still not done with the world. Yet. So many secrets that waiting to be unravel.
Dang, no info for next book :(. While for Enigma, it's clear from Shadows that Naasir will get his own story, I don't think that Illium or Venom or Aodhan will soon get their own story told. Especially Venom that just have little role, maybe he will just get a novella? Wishful thinking that the story will be back to Raphael and Elena again! :D
For my earlier comment, you can check it below :)
(view spoiler)[Yay, Naasir!! :D Already guess that he will get his own story after his major role in Archangel's Shadow, and yeah, I prefer to read his rather than Illium or Venom.
But, I really miss Elena and Raphael :(. Both are the heart of this series and even the side charas books is good, books about them is much better. Please back again to this couple, Nalini! >.<
The sleeping Archangel in Persia, maybe Alexander. Do that mean Favashi somehow ally herself with Lijuan?
And...who's this Andromeda chick? Never read about her before, so I guess she's a really brand new character. Well I hope she's not a timid angel or archetype (hide spoiler)] ...more
Notes are private!
2
Dec 07, 2019
Oct 2015
Dec 08, 2019
Oct 10, 2015
Jan 16, 2015
Mass Market Paperback
0758294433
9780758294432
0758294433
3.75
3,686
May 27, 2014
Jun 2014
it was amazing
4.5 stars
Also posted there:
[image]
The Mark of the Tala is the first book of The Twelve Kingdoms series, a series that featured 3 motherless daught 4.5 stars
Also posted there:
[image]
The Mark of the Tala is the first book of The Twelve Kingdoms series, a series that featured 3 motherless daughters which their true destiny and nature will be unraveled after they learn about their mother secret and war coming in their door.
This book is about Princess Andromeda, or Andi. She's the middle princess, shy, ignorant of politic and any kingdom's matters, and doesn't mind being invicible. She knows that she's not as strong and determined like her big sister, Princess Ursula. Nor that she's as pretty as sunshine like her little sister, Princess Amelia. But after she meet Rayfe of the Tala, a realm of demon that her father, King Uorsin, High King of Twelve Kingdom despised, her world begin to crumbling. Rayfe demand Uorsin to give Andromeda as part of the old oath between Twelve Kingdoms and Tala, and Andromeda feel her body changed to become something she do not understand. To make things complicated, her relationship with her sisters become strained. Her father accused Andromeda as traitor, while her feeling and body yearn for Rayfe. Soon, Andromeda must learn her true nature, to gain her own happines, to not being invicible, even this mean she must betray everyone she loved.
I feel that the first half part of The Mark of the Tala was dragging a bit. We will see how Andromeda struggle with what happen to her, that she try to make her family understand that she is not a traitor. She also fight her desire to Rayfe and while I think Andromeda is a meek princess, she overcome her fear and become strong. But, yes this part also make me frustated because Andromeda still unsure to what to do. The romance part also start late and maybe this is one of some aspect that make me frustated because I want Andromeda just go to Rayfe and to Tala.
And then, when Andromeda finally with Rayfe, the story become interesting. We will see how Andromeda learn her true nature. I also love her relationship with Rayfe. Rayfe is alpha, but he respect Andromeda. He want Andromeda desperately, but do not want to force her to come to him, he want Andromeda to come to Tala and Rayfe with her free will. And even Andromeda thing that Rayfe blackmailed her to marry him to save her family, in the end she find her own Prince Charming in Rayfe. And nope, Andromeda is not a damsel in distress. She might be not a fighter like Princess Ursula, but she sure can fight and stand strong when some Tala's people doubt her because her mother's past.
I like the way Ms Kennedy stated that:
"history always written by the victors. Never forget it. What you believe to be true is exactly what the people who won want you to believe.
This is so very true and also relate to real world. It's also make the world in Twelve Kingdoms is not white and black. There are shades of Grey. Uorsin despised Tala, said that it's a demon realm, yet when Andromeda go to Annfwn, Tala's capitol city, she find that the people of Tala are very much the same with her. The difference just they can shapeshift and do magic, and worship the other Goddess. I find the myth behind Twelve Kingdoms is fascinating. The idea of three Goddesses that Tala and Twelve Kingdoms folks worship, Glorianna, Danu and Moranu remind me of the myth of Hecate and The Morrigan who also have three faces. Add it with three princess, and we know that three is a magic number. I can see that Ms Kennedy do a lot of research to make her own world building. I just wish that the history of the Twelve Kingdoms and the mystery that surround Andromeda's mother Salena can be explored more. But I guess she saved it for the next book
Anyway, for a fantasy book that have medieval setting (or once upon a time setting. Not sure what time), the Mark of the Tala somehow have a modern feeling. I don't mind the formal writing for it's will weird if this book written in modern style. Yet, some thing make me giggle, especially when Ms Kennedy write about the sex scene. Like I read a historical romance with word like "weeping (seriously??)", "manhood", "woman's core" etc. But well, the sex is steamy and I raised my brow when see some reviewers categorized this into young adult shelves, because this book is for adult readers! Once I read Ms Kennedy's blog that stated that this book have NA-vibe. I'm still scratch my head with all this NA-thingie. Back to the sex scene, while I'm not fans of sex told from 1st POV because imo that make the scene less hot than when its written from 3rd POV, surprisely I like this one! Very steamy indeed and yes, definitely for Adult only.
The next book of the Twelve Kingdoms series is The Tears of the Rose. About Princess Amelia, the sunshine and full of rainbow and unicorn Princess, also the fairest of them all. I suggest to not read the blurb if you not read this first, because some part are contain spoiler. I don't know if I want to read about Princess Amelia, consider to what happen to her in the end of this book. Also she's too.. bright for me, while I can relate to Andromeda who constantly in present of another. I want to know about Princess Ursula. From Andromeda's POV (and Amelia's POV from the excerpt) she looked like a hard, though and cold woman. They also refer that Princess Ursula do not need man and sleep with her own sword. Wow, that's harsh :/, but also make me impatient to read her own story, The Talon of the Hawk.
The Mark of The Tala is a good start for a new fantasy series and definitely must read if you love fantasy. Also, love the cover, it's so pretty, right? :)
Loyalty, like love, is based on trust and belief. I will always be loyal to my homeland and to people who live there. There is good and bad, tru, but they are worthy of my belief
e-ARC provided by NetGalley and Kensington for honest review
...more
Also posted there:
[image]
The Mark of the Tala is the first book of The Twelve Kingdoms series, a series that featured 3 motherless daught 4.5 stars
Also posted there:
[image]
The Mark of the Tala is the first book of The Twelve Kingdoms series, a series that featured 3 motherless daughters which their true destiny and nature will be unraveled after they learn about their mother secret and war coming in their door.
This book is about Princess Andromeda, or Andi. She's the middle princess, shy, ignorant of politic and any kingdom's matters, and doesn't mind being invicible. She knows that she's not as strong and determined like her big sister, Princess Ursula. Nor that she's as pretty as sunshine like her little sister, Princess Amelia. But after she meet Rayfe of the Tala, a realm of demon that her father, King Uorsin, High King of Twelve Kingdom despised, her world begin to crumbling. Rayfe demand Uorsin to give Andromeda as part of the old oath between Twelve Kingdoms and Tala, and Andromeda feel her body changed to become something she do not understand. To make things complicated, her relationship with her sisters become strained. Her father accused Andromeda as traitor, while her feeling and body yearn for Rayfe. Soon, Andromeda must learn her true nature, to gain her own happines, to not being invicible, even this mean she must betray everyone she loved.
I feel that the first half part of The Mark of the Tala was dragging a bit. We will see how Andromeda struggle with what happen to her, that she try to make her family understand that she is not a traitor. She also fight her desire to Rayfe and while I think Andromeda is a meek princess, she overcome her fear and become strong. But, yes this part also make me frustated because Andromeda still unsure to what to do. The romance part also start late and maybe this is one of some aspect that make me frustated because I want Andromeda just go to Rayfe and to Tala.
And then, when Andromeda finally with Rayfe, the story become interesting. We will see how Andromeda learn her true nature. I also love her relationship with Rayfe. Rayfe is alpha, but he respect Andromeda. He want Andromeda desperately, but do not want to force her to come to him, he want Andromeda to come to Tala and Rayfe with her free will. And even Andromeda thing that Rayfe blackmailed her to marry him to save her family, in the end she find her own Prince Charming in Rayfe. And nope, Andromeda is not a damsel in distress. She might be not a fighter like Princess Ursula, but she sure can fight and stand strong when some Tala's people doubt her because her mother's past.
I like the way Ms Kennedy stated that:
"history always written by the victors. Never forget it. What you believe to be true is exactly what the people who won want you to believe.
This is so very true and also relate to real world. It's also make the world in Twelve Kingdoms is not white and black. There are shades of Grey. Uorsin despised Tala, said that it's a demon realm, yet when Andromeda go to Annfwn, Tala's capitol city, she find that the people of Tala are very much the same with her. The difference just they can shapeshift and do magic, and worship the other Goddess. I find the myth behind Twelve Kingdoms is fascinating. The idea of three Goddesses that Tala and Twelve Kingdoms folks worship, Glorianna, Danu and Moranu remind me of the myth of Hecate and The Morrigan who also have three faces. Add it with three princess, and we know that three is a magic number. I can see that Ms Kennedy do a lot of research to make her own world building. I just wish that the history of the Twelve Kingdoms and the mystery that surround Andromeda's mother Salena can be explored more. But I guess she saved it for the next book
Anyway, for a fantasy book that have medieval setting (or once upon a time setting. Not sure what time), the Mark of the Tala somehow have a modern feeling. I don't mind the formal writing for it's will weird if this book written in modern style. Yet, some thing make me giggle, especially when Ms Kennedy write about the sex scene. Like I read a historical romance with word like "weeping (seriously??)", "manhood", "woman's core" etc. But well, the sex is steamy and I raised my brow when see some reviewers categorized this into young adult shelves, because this book is for adult readers! Once I read Ms Kennedy's blog that stated that this book have NA-vibe. I'm still scratch my head with all this NA-thingie. Back to the sex scene, while I'm not fans of sex told from 1st POV because imo that make the scene less hot than when its written from 3rd POV, surprisely I like this one! Very steamy indeed and yes, definitely for Adult only.
The next book of the Twelve Kingdoms series is The Tears of the Rose. About Princess Amelia, the sunshine and full of rainbow and unicorn Princess, also the fairest of them all. I suggest to not read the blurb if you not read this first, because some part are contain spoiler. I don't know if I want to read about Princess Amelia, consider to what happen to her in the end of this book. Also she's too.. bright for me, while I can relate to Andromeda who constantly in present of another. I want to know about Princess Ursula. From Andromeda's POV (and Amelia's POV from the excerpt) she looked like a hard, though and cold woman. They also refer that Princess Ursula do not need man and sleep with her own sword. Wow, that's harsh :/, but also make me impatient to read her own story, The Talon of the Hawk.
The Mark of The Tala is a good start for a new fantasy series and definitely must read if you love fantasy. Also, love the cover, it's so pretty, right? :)
Loyalty, like love, is based on trust and belief. I will always be loyal to my homeland and to people who live there. There is good and bad, tru, but they are worthy of my belief
e-ARC provided by NetGalley and Kensington for honest review
...more
Notes are private!
1
May 29, 2014
May 30, 2014
Apr 16, 2014
Paperback
0515152897
9780515152890
0515152897
3.97
67,738
Oct 29, 2013
Jan 24, 2017
it was ok
Maybe I'm more of J.D.Robb gal rather than Roberts's. This book is so slow like snails, I'm almost asleep and yawn when read it. Impatient too to fini
Maybe I'm more of J.D.Robb gal rather than Roberts's. This book is so slow like snails, I'm almost asleep and yawn when read it. Impatient too to finish it so I can read another book. Iona is..like Fin said, too bright! Her sweet and constantly said sorry make my teeth ache. Her romance with Boyle also so slow and lack of chemistry. Oh well, there was a bump in their relationship, but imho, too slow to start. Everything about this book is so slow, it's make me disappointed. Maybe because I want a good paranormal trilogy, and I know damn well that Roberts can write one, like with what she did in Circle Trilogy. But Dark Witch is not a good start for a trilogy. Kinda remind me with Jewel of the Sun. Also, is it just me or Robert's writing kinda weird here? The book writing seems choppy and the change between dialogue also confusing!
The good thing just Branna and Fin. Oh the angst, oh the sexual tension between them. Fin have Roberts's trademark of Irish men (*cough Roarke, cough*) and Branna is not as annoying as Iona. I also like how Roberts describe Ireland, the lush scenery, the myth behind the Dark Witch and the dynamic of the stable where Iona work.
I think Connor is too much like Larkin from Dance of the Gods, and I know this is Roberts signature to write an easy going hero in second novel from a trilogy. So I'm not too excited to read about him and Meara. But, heh, I already start this trilogy and I know that I'm so intrigued to read about Branna and Fin and how they work their indifference, so guess I must read Connor's ...more
The good thing just Branna and Fin. Oh the angst, oh the sexual tension between them. Fin have Roberts's trademark of Irish men (*cough Roarke, cough*) and Branna is not as annoying as Iona. I also like how Roberts describe Ireland, the lush scenery, the myth behind the Dark Witch and the dynamic of the stable where Iona work.
I think Connor is too much like Larkin from Dance of the Gods, and I know this is Roberts signature to write an easy going hero in second novel from a trilogy. So I'm not too excited to read about him and Meara. But, heh, I already start this trilogy and I know that I'm so intrigued to read about Branna and Fin and how they work their indifference, so guess I must read Connor's ...more
Notes are private!
1
Dec 20, 2014
Dec 27, 2014
Apr 03, 2013
Mass Market Paperback
1101606916
9781101606919
3.94
1,034
Dec 04, 2012
Dec 04, 2012
really liked it
Celia Wird and her 3 sisters, Taran, Shayna and Emme are not ordinary twenty-something chicks. That's not new concept, except they were cursed and tha
Celia Wird and her 3 sisters, Taran, Shayna and Emme are not ordinary twenty-something chicks. That's not new concept, except they were cursed and that curse was backfired, make them more than special. The story start when the sisters move to Lake Tahoe and unfortunately Taran start a fight with the local witch. Their fight is blowing the club they choose to celebrate. Literally.
Hell hath no fury like witches scorned. Celia must accept three challenges from the witch's coven. Celia still have her joker, she then invoke the Ninth Law to protect her sisters. The challenge begin and make Celia almost lose since the witch's leader, Larissa is not just a mere witch. Larissa also play dirty toward Wird sisters, make Celia mad. And of course she decide to kick that witch's ass. Hard.
For novella and the first start for a new series, I found this one is sooo goood! :D. Full of action, and lot of new concept. Ms Robson also doesn't shy away from writing gore scene, especially when Celia fight the challenges from the witches. She also make us know more about the Celia's sisters with their unique ability and personality. They remind me of Halliwell sister from Charmed. Dude, I missed that show. Celia is a likable heroine. It easy to sympathize toward her. She do carry all burden in her shoulder, make her look strong and though as nails. But she also show her vulnerability for she love her sisters so deeply, she can't thought when they are in danger.
Lucky that I have book #1, Sealed with a Curse which I won from Ms Robson herself (don't be jealous for me, my dear). So I'm anxiously want to know if the book also great and full action packed like the novella.
...more
Hell hath no fury like witches scorned. Celia must accept three challenges from the witch's coven. Celia still have her joker, she then invoke the Ninth Law to protect her sisters. The challenge begin and make Celia almost lose since the witch's leader, Larissa is not just a mere witch. Larissa also play dirty toward Wird sisters, make Celia mad. And of course she decide to kick that witch's ass. Hard.
For novella and the first start for a new series, I found this one is sooo goood! :D. Full of action, and lot of new concept. Ms Robson also doesn't shy away from writing gore scene, especially when Celia fight the challenges from the witches. She also make us know more about the Celia's sisters with their unique ability and personality. They remind me of Halliwell sister from Charmed. Dude, I missed that show. Celia is a likable heroine. It easy to sympathize toward her. She do carry all burden in her shoulder, make her look strong and though as nails. But she also show her vulnerability for she love her sisters so deeply, she can't thought when they are in danger.
Lucky that I have book #1, Sealed with a Curse which I won from Ms Robson herself (don't be jealous for me, my dear). So I'm anxiously want to know if the book also great and full action packed like the novella.
...more
Notes are private!
1
Jan 25, 2013
Jan 25, 2013
Jan 22, 2013
ebook
0345507460
9780345507464
4.10
16,146
Oct 14, 2008
Oct 21, 2008
liked it
This is the first time I read Jim Butcher's book, and his famous series Dresden Files. Welcome to the Jungle is a good introduction for those who not
This is the first time I read Jim Butcher's book, and his famous series Dresden Files. Welcome to the Jungle is a good introduction for those who not familiar with Mr Butcher's work and being a manga/comic fans myself I really enjoy this. The story is about a killer is loose in a zoo, and Lt Murphy from Chicago Police Department believe there's something unnatural behind this. So she hired Harry Dresden, a real wizard extraordinnaire to handle the problem. Harry begin his investigation and found an old cult that collect animal's blood and plan to collect the last animal, a gorilla named Moe.
The artwork is good and eye catching. Its a compliment since mostly I don't like American style that seems too harsh and always prefer manga. Love how the artist picture Harry. He look... not handsome but he sure look more than that. With those scruff, hmmm ;). This graphic novel conviced me to read more about Harry Dresden's story. Can't wait :) ...more
The artwork is good and eye catching. Its a compliment since mostly I don't like American style that seems too harsh and always prefer manga. Love how the artist picture Harry. He look... not handsome but he sure look more than that. With those scruff, hmmm ;). This graphic novel conviced me to read more about Harry Dresden's story. Can't wait :) ...more
Notes are private!
1
Jan 13, 2013
Jan 13, 2013
Jan 13, 2013
Hardcover
1420108905
9781420108903
1420108905
4.32
10,557
Sep 04, 2012
Sep 04, 2012
it was amazing
Re-read
Still part of my binge Dragon Kin re-read series. Actually, I read How to Drive a Dragon Crazy, more like 2 years ago, not like the previous Re-read
Still part of my binge Dragon Kin re-read series. Actually, I read How to Drive a Dragon Crazy, more like 2 years ago, not like the previous 1-5 books. Why I decline so long.. I didn't know. May I become so busy back then :/. Since it's long weekend, I manage to read both The Dragon Who Loved Me and also How to Drive a Dragon Crazy at 2 days, stat! A reading experience that make my long weekend not too miserable. But you know that long weekend is a gift for us reader, right? To spend all that holiday to just snuggling in our bed and gobble up all the books? XD
I read my old review, and winced a bit. I did think this book is just meh, maybe because like other readers, I sooo wait about Eibhear and Izzy. And the book back then didn't meet my high expectation. But like I had stated in my The Dragon Who Loved Me review, my reading taste and experience always change. Always evolved. Those that I once didn't amused me, now I find I can tolerate it and vice versa.
I up the rate to 4,5 stars, because I see that Aiken try her best to write about Eibhear and Izzy. Silly me too expect Eibhear will go alpha, because...that's not Eibhear. Not at all. Even with the event in the previous book change him, make him more ruthless somehow, he's still a blue dragon with a gold heart. Eibhear simply just become..himself. I know that many readers complaint that the romance is almost non-existent. That Eibhear didn't grovel much, that Izzy is too easy. Gawd, I stated it all in my old review, mind you!! But, re-read always make me see it from another perspective.
See..Izzy already love Eibhear when she first met him at 16 years old. But Eibhear, because he's so nice, he didn't want to admit it at first They constantly have pull and tug war, that I admit, can grated my nerves! I did see that Aiken give a time for Izzy to be matured, so in this book she is already in her thirties. I amend my early opinion that state Izzy still childish and kinda like Anwyll's copy. Yeah, she is so ruthless like Anwyll, but, I can see that Izzy is actually different compared to Anwyll. It's so unfair of me to keep compared that two, while each character have their own unique traits. I think I'm more fond toward Izzy in this re-read, rather than what I feel back then. She actually grow up, still crazy, still..a little bit childish. But, she changed.
As for the almost non-existent romance...well, to be honest, Aiken already did it from Gwenvael's book, What a Dragon Should Know. Keita's book have HFN, Vigholf and Rhona's book actual main story is Anwyll's war with Irons. So why this book will be different? I think Eibhear and Izzy already have enough romance, and I also amend my opinion again about Izzy being so easy to Eibhear. Actually, she's not. Izzy is not Keita that hate clingy man and also didn't like herself to committed to one man for eternity (although I think, Keita in this book finally mated to Ragnar. Talk about time!!). Izzy denied Eibhear at first, not because she playing hard to get, but she feel frustrated for Eibhear's oblivious feeling to her. So, when Eibhear finally admit it, I feel that Izzy was relieved to know about that. She just didn't show it at first. I guess, that's what work best for both Eibhear and Izzy.
As for the story, not much I said. I still like the subplot, the old characters, the new characters. All aspect still wonderful. I will always categorized Dragon Kin as one of finest fantasy romance, if you love your heroine so kick ass and unapologetic and the heroes that play hard, work hard to win their love. Also...the comedy of errors might not for everyone, but it's sure never fail to amazed me. Dragon Kin series, to put it simply, is a keeper! :D
Below is my first review. You will know how I slightly disappointed at first. Funny to read it, th0.
3,5 stars
The first book I read in 2015, also the first paperback I finally read after reading so many e-book last year. One book at a time to conquer my never ending TBR! :). I pick up How To Drive a Dragon Crazy, the 6th book in Dragon Kin series, because I want to start this year with a good book. Well, this one is good, but I admit that I'm a little bit disappointed :/
How to Drive is about Iseabail "Izzy" the Dangerous and Eibhear the Blue (or Compatible), a old characters from Dragon Kin world. Their attraction begin way way back at book #2 (or maybe #3), have been down and up for years. They manage to tease and hurt their feelings, especially Eibhear that try to resist his feeling to Izzy, because he is his uncle. Yep, Izzy is Briec's adoptive daughter and Briec (hero from book #2) is Eibhear's big brother. They're not family by blood, but family will always family and Eibhear don't want to love Izzy since it will be awkward to lusting after his niece even Izzy is clear about her feeling to her "nice" uncle.
The story fast forward 10 years after the event in The Dragon Who Loved Me. Izzy now have mature and become adult woman, a much respected and well feared General of her own, even she's still childish. Eibhear himself already growing big, and bigger than his brothers, he's now with Mi-Runach, a dragon warrior that do not fear death and fight without following order except from the Dragon Queen herself. After 10 years never met, Eibhearkidnap bring Izzy back to the Garbhann Isles because there are big problems. One of it is Izzy's stepsister, Rhianwen, whose magick power keep getting stronger and become a danger for anyone that she hold dear. Izzy and Eibhear must go to Desert Land, a place where Izzy's mother, Talaith come from to save Rhianwen and discover that they must stop a cult on that places.
Well, I'm never a fans of Izzy, because I always think that she's too childish and kinda like Anwyll's copycat. Yeah both are crazy, easily pissed off by other and always treat anyone's throat that displease them so much. But, Anwyll will always be CRAZY and right to because she's the queen and already bloodthirsty from the beginning. Izzy just follow her step and even she's now in her thirties, she like to act like a child! Anyhoo, that's not make her an annoying character, Izzy just don't grow on me.
Same thing with Eibhear. Maybe I want to see that he's being crazy because Izzy's teasing here and there. But he's just midly crazy #heh. I also think that the start of the story is too slow and the romance between Izzy and Eibhear almost non-existent. They have sex, they did. It's steamy, event not as steamy as the previous books. It just all that sexual tension between them (from previous books!) become anticlimatic in the end. I'm so want to read how Eibhear going alpha and Claimed Izzy for his own. But, eh, I don't got it :(.
The best part is the world building that still stellar and the characters. At first I'm a little bit consufed because it's been almost 2 years since I read book #5 and like her other pen name Shelly Laurenston, G.A. Aiken write so many characters! It's so nice to finally reunite with Fire Dragon after 2 books before this one are about Lightning Dragon. We will get know more about Ice Dragon and especially Sand Dragon that reside in Dessert Land with their king. The gods also play important roles to and still full of mysterious intent. The Mi-Runach, Eibhear's friends are funny and a little bit stupid, but I guess one of them, Aidan will get story. Maybe with Branwenn, one of Eibhear's Cadwaladr cousin that seems suited for him.
The epilogue kinda surprising and take the Dragon Kin world into new era. Anwyll and her kin will face a new treat that will endanger Garbhann Isle. The future is uncertain, but well, Aiken is a master storyteller and I always eager to read what next from her. The new installment of Dragon Kin is Playing with Fire. It's about Celyn, Branwenn's brother, have a past with Izzy that created riot between him, Izzy and Eibhear, even they already forget it. ...more
Still part of my binge Dragon Kin re-read series. Actually, I read How to Drive a Dragon Crazy, more like 2 years ago, not like the previous Re-read
Still part of my binge Dragon Kin re-read series. Actually, I read How to Drive a Dragon Crazy, more like 2 years ago, not like the previous 1-5 books. Why I decline so long.. I didn't know. May I become so busy back then :/. Since it's long weekend, I manage to read both The Dragon Who Loved Me and also How to Drive a Dragon Crazy at 2 days, stat! A reading experience that make my long weekend not too miserable. But you know that long weekend is a gift for us reader, right? To spend all that holiday to just snuggling in our bed and gobble up all the books? XD
I read my old review, and winced a bit. I did think this book is just meh, maybe because like other readers, I sooo wait about Eibhear and Izzy. And the book back then didn't meet my high expectation. But like I had stated in my The Dragon Who Loved Me review, my reading taste and experience always change. Always evolved. Those that I once didn't amused me, now I find I can tolerate it and vice versa.
I up the rate to 4,5 stars, because I see that Aiken try her best to write about Eibhear and Izzy. Silly me too expect Eibhear will go alpha, because...that's not Eibhear. Not at all. Even with the event in the previous book change him, make him more ruthless somehow, he's still a blue dragon with a gold heart. Eibhear simply just become..himself. I know that many readers complaint that the romance is almost non-existent. That Eibhear didn't grovel much, that Izzy is too easy. Gawd, I stated it all in my old review, mind you!! But, re-read always make me see it from another perspective.
See..Izzy already love Eibhear when she first met him at 16 years old. But Eibhear, because he's so nice, he didn't want to admit it at first They constantly have pull and tug war, that I admit, can grated my nerves! I did see that Aiken give a time for Izzy to be matured, so in this book she is already in her thirties. I amend my early opinion that state Izzy still childish and kinda like Anwyll's copy. Yeah, she is so ruthless like Anwyll, but, I can see that Izzy is actually different compared to Anwyll. It's so unfair of me to keep compared that two, while each character have their own unique traits. I think I'm more fond toward Izzy in this re-read, rather than what I feel back then. She actually grow up, still crazy, still..a little bit childish. But, she changed.
As for the almost non-existent romance...well, to be honest, Aiken already did it from Gwenvael's book, What a Dragon Should Know. Keita's book have HFN, Vigholf and Rhona's book actual main story is Anwyll's war with Irons. So why this book will be different? I think Eibhear and Izzy already have enough romance, and I also amend my opinion again about Izzy being so easy to Eibhear. Actually, she's not. Izzy is not Keita that hate clingy man and also didn't like herself to committed to one man for eternity (although I think, Keita in this book finally mated to Ragnar. Talk about time!!). Izzy denied Eibhear at first, not because she playing hard to get, but she feel frustrated for Eibhear's oblivious feeling to her. So, when Eibhear finally admit it, I feel that Izzy was relieved to know about that. She just didn't show it at first. I guess, that's what work best for both Eibhear and Izzy.
As for the story, not much I said. I still like the subplot, the old characters, the new characters. All aspect still wonderful. I will always categorized Dragon Kin as one of finest fantasy romance, if you love your heroine so kick ass and unapologetic and the heroes that play hard, work hard to win their love. Also...the comedy of errors might not for everyone, but it's sure never fail to amazed me. Dragon Kin series, to put it simply, is a keeper! :D
Below is my first review. You will know how I slightly disappointed at first. Funny to read it, th0.
3,5 stars
The first book I read in 2015, also the first paperback I finally read after reading so many e-book last year. One book at a time to conquer my never ending TBR! :). I pick up How To Drive a Dragon Crazy, the 6th book in Dragon Kin series, because I want to start this year with a good book. Well, this one is good, but I admit that I'm a little bit disappointed :/
How to Drive is about Iseabail "Izzy" the Dangerous and Eibhear the Blue (or Compatible), a old characters from Dragon Kin world. Their attraction begin way way back at book #2 (or maybe #3), have been down and up for years. They manage to tease and hurt their feelings, especially Eibhear that try to resist his feeling to Izzy, because he is his uncle. Yep, Izzy is Briec's adoptive daughter and Briec (hero from book #2) is Eibhear's big brother. They're not family by blood, but family will always family and Eibhear don't want to love Izzy since it will be awkward to lusting after his niece even Izzy is clear about her feeling to her "nice" uncle.
The story fast forward 10 years after the event in The Dragon Who Loved Me. Izzy now have mature and become adult woman, a much respected and well feared General of her own, even she's still childish. Eibhear himself already growing big, and bigger than his brothers, he's now with Mi-Runach, a dragon warrior that do not fear death and fight without following order except from the Dragon Queen herself. After 10 years never met, Eibhear
Well, I'm never a fans of Izzy, because I always think that she's too childish and kinda like Anwyll's copycat. Yeah both are crazy, easily pissed off by other and always treat anyone's throat that displease them so much. But, Anwyll will always be CRAZY and right to because she's the queen and already bloodthirsty from the beginning. Izzy just follow her step and even she's now in her thirties, she like to act like a child! Anyhoo, that's not make her an annoying character, Izzy just don't grow on me.
Same thing with Eibhear. Maybe I want to see that he's being crazy because Izzy's teasing here and there. But he's just midly crazy #heh. I also think that the start of the story is too slow and the romance between Izzy and Eibhear almost non-existent. They have sex, they did. It's steamy, event not as steamy as the previous books. It just all that sexual tension between them (from previous books!) become anticlimatic in the end. I'm so want to read how Eibhear going alpha and Claimed Izzy for his own. But, eh, I don't got it :(.
The best part is the world building that still stellar and the characters. At first I'm a little bit consufed because it's been almost 2 years since I read book #5 and like her other pen name Shelly Laurenston, G.A. Aiken write so many characters! It's so nice to finally reunite with Fire Dragon after 2 books before this one are about Lightning Dragon. We will get know more about Ice Dragon and especially Sand Dragon that reside in Dessert Land with their king. The gods also play important roles to and still full of mysterious intent. The Mi-Runach, Eibhear's friends are funny and a little bit stupid, but I guess one of them, Aidan will get story. Maybe with Branwenn, one of Eibhear's Cadwaladr cousin that seems suited for him.
The epilogue kinda surprising and take the Dragon Kin world into new era. Anwyll and her kin will face a new treat that will endanger Garbhann Isle. The future is uncertain, but well, Aiken is a master storyteller and I always eager to read what next from her. The new installment of Dragon Kin is Playing with Fire. It's about Celyn, Branwenn's brother, have a past with Izzy that created riot between him, Izzy and Eibhear, even they already forget it. ...more
Notes are private!
2
Apr 15, 2017
Dec 31, 2014
Apr 16, 2017
Jan 02, 2015
Nov 22, 2012
Mass Market Paperback
0758231660
9780758231666
0758231660
4.36
14,483
Nov 01, 2009
Nov 01, 2009
it was amazing
So funny and hilarious! I don't remember the last time I laugh so hard when reading a book, but Shelly Laurenston can do that for you.
So funny and hilarious! I don't remember the last time I laugh so hard when reading a book, but Shelly Laurenston can do that for you.
...more
Notes are private!
1
Sep 30, 2012
Oct 2012
Sep 30, 2012
Paperback
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