A favorite from childhood, we read this as a family over the holiday break.
It if phenomenal! Hilarious, well written, and a bit of heart-string pullerA favorite from childhood, we read this as a family over the holiday break.
It if phenomenal! Hilarious, well written, and a bit of heart-string puller at the end. I think I will go back to reading this once a year, I am shocked at how well it held up....more
Not bad. Quick pace, interesting premise, and even though I figured out the big reveal early the author deftly threw in stuff that made me doubt my guNot bad. Quick pace, interesting premise, and even though I figured out the big reveal early the author deftly threw in stuff that made me doubt my guess multiple times, so I can't ask for a lot more.
Had a very similar vibe to 'The Likeness' by Tana French, especially in the way the friends interact around outsiders to their group, but it was very much a ''Lite' version of that much superior book. There were a few clues that were supposed to be subtle judging by the the reveals at the end but were dropped in to obviously to not be noticed.
I enjoy books I can read in an afternoon though, and this is a better sort of Grocery Store Fiction so I will probably pick up more from the author. ...more
Imagine if you will your favorite surprises or shocking moments from book or film. We don't learn who Soze really is until the film's final scene. VadImagine if you will your favorite surprises or shocking moments from book or film. We don't learn who Soze really is until the film's final scene. Vader drops a parenting line at the end of the second outing. And more than one person got hooked on A Game of Thrones when the person being set up as the series protagonist gets the ax.
It actually isn't easy to pull of because for a surprise to be shocking there has to be some emotional involvement. Some build up is needed and the reader has to have a connection to the characters involved. Without this the 'surprise' will land with a thud. And if the entirety of the story is spun off of this particular plot twist...
Frankly I was mostly bored.
Godblind had one surprise in an otherwise completely predictable plot. It is obviously supposed to be the Ned Stark moment that turns everything upside down but it hits too early to have that effect. The readers had no chance to know the characters involved and their treachery only went against first impressions, not any sort of long set feel of their personalities. And it is on this dud that the rest of the plot continues.
This is a story about one land (The Mireces) planning an invasion of another (Riplor). They have some help; a few traitors on the inside and some very blood thirsty gods looking to break through back into reality. The 'Red Gods' were very cool, nothing else really stood out. A few armies move around, a lackluster battle or two, and this being the first book of a series, the Red Gods in question quite unsurprisingly break find their way out of exile to rain hell and set up the rest of the series.
The cast has some highlights but their interactions leave a lot to be desired. For example Crys is a grizzled soldier with a lot of promise who early on befriends a prince and is then unwillingly dragged into a traitorous plan. But the reasoning for this unconventional friendship is never made apparent. It seemed like a set up but the payoff never came; in the end it felt like nothing more than forcing two characters together only because they needed to be in the same place.
Worse some very lazy tricks are used to show various characters' personalities. The aforementioned surprise went completely against the early impression given (as in told rather than shown) of one particular character. But more egregious came from a scene later in the book. I do not need a man's evil nature to be shown in an inconsequential scene in which he threatens to rape both a mother and a daughter (and assumed to be carried out off page). Without this scene nothing changes, with it a bad character looks a little more evil at the expense of two women.
I will however give credit where it is due. Once Gilda and Lanta are in the same place, respective envoys to warring gods, there is genuine opposites attract chemistry going on. Their hatred and sadistic banter feels exactly right. More of these two would have helped things immensely, they were easily the highlight of the whole book.
I am not sure this is a bad book, but it is an entirely unmemorable one.
Not everyone one loves non-linear plot lines so in order to make Station Eleven accessible to all I took it upon myself to chart th
Not everyone one loves non-linear plot lines so in order to make Station Eleven accessible to all I took it upon myself to chart the timeline out for everyone and have included it for reference below.
[image]
You're Welcome.
Station Eleven has one of the more interesting set ups I have seen. It is nominally a post apocalyptic tale that deals with a select few survivors of a civilization ending strain of flu. Many of the familiar trappings are there; wandering bands of survivors, fascinating looks at a new life without old technologies, even a prophet emerging from the chaos consolidating power for his own vision.
But the base of the story is more Citizen Kane than Mad Max. The Rosebud of the story is an aging actor named Arthur who dies on stage in the opening scene of the story. His life and death have nothing to do with the death of humanity, in fact he dies the day the 'Georgian Flu' hits North America and is never aware of what is coming. But everyone in the book is in some way tied to him, directly or through his works, and it is one story at a time building to a larger connection that brings the whole cast together.
This is a slower paced book but incredibly well crafted. Each story drops a small hint, be it in the time of rebuilding, the hectic final days of modern humanity, or at times years before when everything was normal and problems much more mundane. The story is interesting, and questions will be answered, but it is tough to say whether there is any sort of payoff so a readers satisfaction will probably vary based on expectations. Personally I loved it; a complete memoir of life and fame hidden in the end of the world. But with its slow pace and lack of any major, central question your mileage may vary.
If there is a weakness in the book it comes from the believably of the post collapse world and in some ways the collapse itself. Yes, the very set up of the novel is the hardest to buy. The speed the sickness spreads world wide is quite insane and near complete start over humanity is going through doesn't add up. Is there no mechanical lathe still around? Scavenging is effective but manufacturing shouldn't have stopped. But since in reality all the post apocalyptic setting is just staging for a larger story it doesn't' really matter.
This is more quirky indie film than summer blockbuster. It is smart and interesting and worth reading but nothing really memorable. The setting works because of its small scale and unanswered questions but doesn't beg for further expansion. Station Eleven is a book I am glad to have read but it is a style that really could only work once. It's uniqueness is part of its charm and covers up for some of its weaknesses.
Nicky Drayden answered a few questions about her debut novel in
There are time when all the pieces come together. Sometimes that iNicky Drayden answered a few questions about her debut novel in
There are time when all the pieces come together. Sometimes that is because the pieces are made to be together; a dark lord chasing the orphaned farm boy and the like. But to make all the pieces come together when said pieces are a virtual grab bag of randomness takes a bit more skill. Robot uprising, pissed off demi-god, young girl with the power to naturally nuke a town, hallucinations that are real and not real and real again. All tied together in a neat little...oh who I am kidding, it was a glorious mess. But a glorious mess that all works out if one is really paying attention.
The Prey of Gods starts with a young man worrying about the state of of his private parts and mentally cussing out the man who decided circumcision should come by ritual in the teens rather than infancy. We can go ahead and call his story the sanest plot line of the book followed by a politician with a secret wannabe pop star identity. From there all the crazy elements are introduced one by one, then moved around in a wonderful whirlwind until everything important comes together in flash bang of a conclusion. Yes I just mixed metaphors like a boss, but that is only because I wanted to get in on this crazy game.
Make no mistake one would have to enjoy a health dose of weird to enjoy this book. I wish I could recommend this book with no reservations but there are still a good number of people who don't enjoy Bas Lag so obviously some will be put off by people discovering their inner sexual crab. Assuming that is you then you have permission to skip reading this review but please know you are missing out.
Are all the boring people gone?
Cool.
Beyond the weird The Prey of Gods is a book that has a whole lot to say but makes the reader work to decide what exactly that is. In a near future where things generally seem to be getting better there is a bit of optimism. Yet a pissed off ancient demi-goddess threatens to tear it all down; a decidedly fatalistic look at was an optimistic future. Another character goes from young innocent to monster before possibly making the turn back. Hell the entire pop star's story-line had enough going for it to be its own contemporary novel (minus the mystic drug dealer, perhaps).
I suppose the real question is how many times in a year I can call different books 'debut of the year' and get away with it (by my count this might be the third). The Prey of Gods has the depth, excitement and action, and just enough humor to make up for its apocalyptic body count. Each character's point of view feels unique and not one character of the diverse cast feels unneeded. It may requiring altering ones mind to accommodate the insane set up but the payoff is worth it in the end.
Another highly anticipated debut that didn't disappoint.
A simple enough novel in which a woman runs from those trying to do her harm after a drug war spills over to something more persona
A simple enough novel in which a woman runs from those trying to do her harm after a drug war spills over to something more personal. Only the major parties involved happen to be vampires. Which makes things a little more...not simple?
Certain Dark Things is completely engaging yet very simple in execution. The story follows Atl as she ends up in Mexico City while on the run from the rival family who killed her sister. Mexico City is not a good place to be a vampire; sanitation crews are always on the lookout in an attempt to keep the city bloodsucker free. A hunger for young human blood makes hiding out even harder so Atl recruits a teen street kid for a meal. She then makes a decision that could be a mistake by letting young Domingo live.
It is dark and emotional. Domingo goes from crush to possible love interest but Atl always knows her past and future involve blood and heartbreak. A jaded police officer on her trail fights her conscience when the system doesn't provide the support but a human gang does. And Nick, the spoiled son of a vampire lord, provides the perfect mix of evil and youthful arrogance while acting as the main villain.
There is a bit of a role-playing influence at work as the different vampire sub species are introduced. Atl can trace her heritage back to the Aztecs; she requires younger blood than some and can fly when she has the energy. Nick's group are bit more Dracula; making puppets out of their human victims through some sort of blood induced mind control. And hints of even more are seen throughout.
On the one had all this is fascinating and the distinctions are not gratuitous; the vampires use their various advantages in a the battle to get the upper hand on each other and a reader who stays aware will have something of a head up before each twist and turn of the plot. On the other hand there is a lot of excess world building that may never pay off; the history of vampires outings could be fascinating but is only a background detail.
As vampire tales go this is one of the better recent releases. It carefully builds a lore that could easily lead to our current myths while adding enough originality to stand on its own. The simple story was a page turner, never a bad thing. And the ending fit the personalities of the characters perfectly, not coming as a surprise but with just the right mix of melancholy and heartbreak.
A strong book with a cool take on vampire lore. Perhaps not the most memorable nor is it a genre changer but well worth reading.
A bit out of place on this humble blog as unless I missed something there were no dragons involved in this non-fiction book about t
A bit out of place on this humble blog as unless I missed something there were no dragons involved in this non-fiction book about the history of baking powder. Nor did any of the major companies involved prone to hiring any type of magical assistance. So feel free to skip this review if the riveting battle between companies trying to sell flavorless white powder does nothing for you.
The Baking Powder War caught my eye because I am fascinated by the history of marketing and the blurb promised plenty of this. I was not disappointed on this front but I also got so much more than I expected. This was not a minor marketing battle between rival companies; the 'war' statement in the title of the book was in no way hyperbole. It can also not be overstated just how important the creation and distribution of this product was both in its time and leading up to today.
For those that don't cook baking powder is a product that leavens bread. Almost any bread product bought today (outside of artisan loafs) as well as most cakes, cookies, etc contain this product. If you put it in an oven and it gets bigger, or if it is soft and fluffy, you know it has baking powder. If it can be cooked in less than an hour the same statement holds true.
Starting with the introduction of bread making in colonial America the author takes her time showing just how important bread making was in the time period; setting up just how revolutionary this simple product ended up being. From there the focus slowly shifts down two paths; how the product was changing society and what four major companies were doing to ensure they profited the most off it. Both of these aspects were fascinating.
On the societal change front it is almost shocking how much impact this simple product has. Bread making went from something that went on all day (and took constant prep to ensure the baker had yeast at hand as a dried version is years away still) to something that could be done on more of a whim. This leavening was so important that the first patent issued in America dealt with a baking powder predecessor. Many diverse aspects were looked into, often briefly. The rise of the tin industry (baking pans were suddenly needed for breads that didn't stay self contained), the start of chemical additives to food (baking powder is convenient but it adds neither flavor nor nutritional value) and eventually the rise of chain grocers.
But the majority of the book focused on the cut throat war the various companies engaged in during a time with less ease of consumer information. Wholesale bribery of state legislature type of warfare; these companies were robber barons every bit as crafty as any steel tycoon. Early marketing was as horrifying as it is fascinating; one ad basically told women that a can of baking powder saved so much time it was like owning a slave!
I don't review non-fiction much and this certainly isn't an academic journal. Unlike fiction reviews I don't see any need to discuss pacing or narrative style. I found The Baking Powder War to be easy to read and completely fascinating. I was expecting more on marketing and was slightly disappointed that it only came up sporadically but I got so much more than I realized from this book.
Recommended for those interesting in marketing, American history, and the quality of their food.
Let's look at some of the things I said about The Fifth Season.
“This one may have broke me.�
“Along with its ability to shred my emo
Let's look at some of the things I said about The Fifth Season.
“This one may have broke me.�
“Along with its ability to shred my emotions.�
“One of the most emotional reads I have had in a long time.�
I think there is a pattern here. The Fifth Season was a five star read that played on readers emotions. Looking back it is important that that is the case. Not a lot happened in reality, a couple characters traveled and met with each other and the groundwork for a world wide mystery was laid. But if a reader was looking for any sort of answers, or a fast paced plot, or all kinds of action they were not going to get it. Emotional gut punches and strong characters, yes. Answers? Oh no.
The Obelisk Gate finally starts to provide those answers. The great mystery of what Stone Eaters (people made entirely of stone), Guardians (magical police), and even Oregens (those who can use magic) are in this world with its geology based magic is slowly filled in. The world's broken folklore starts to mesh with a more scientific understanding of what has gone wrong in this broken world; Father Earth lost the moon and has punished humanity ever since. Why this happened, and more importantly what kind of end game may bring back some sort of harmony, begins to make it self known.
This second installment continues to follow Essun, now firmly in one timeline though annoyingly narrated in second person for reasons I can't quite fathom. Her story is one of world wide importance though her former lover now mentor Alabaster refuses to share the information she needs in any timley fashion. A new character is added with a more traditional third person point of view; Essun's daughter Nassun who is proving to be a powerful Oregen herself. Alternating between these two (and occasionally one more) The Obelisk Gate starts to really look at the nitty gritty of what can be done in this world rather than react to what is happening.
As a plot driver this is all great. Going into book three I have a strong foundation in this world and the cultures that have developed around its chaos. It is very safe to say that the conclusion of this series could be epic indeed; planet shaking goodness and the possibility of some high stakes personal confrontations between people with the power to make something happen.
But as a stand alone book within a series there is something missing; movement of almost any kind sans a fairly epic confrontation as the story wanes. Essun is firmly planted in one village learning her powers from Alabaster. Important to the story but not the most captivating story. Nassun quickly learns to be wise beyond her years but doesn't have much growth once she starts to realize her power; getting more powerful but no wiser. Alternating between their stories breaks up some of the monotony but three forths of the book feels like a clever info dump more than a story.
Perhaps the first book did this and I didn't realize it but The Fifth Season had no problem giving out emotional gut punches. Nassun's early story had a bit of this but Essun's story seems to have given everything it could already; all that is left is the cold hard facts of what her future holds.
The Obelisk Gate is not a bad book but it is a let down from The Fifth Season. As a bridge it may turn out to be just what the series needs; certainly it left me hungry enough to already be wanting the conclusion. But on its own it just doesn't hold up to its predecessor's lofty expectations.
I wish I could give Home, second in the Binti series a more in depth review. Sadly, despite enjoying it, I find myself completely l
I wish I could give Home, second in the Binti series a more in depth review. Sadly, despite enjoying it, I find myself completely lacking of anything to say. I think I know why, reviewing this series is like reviewing a TV drama series. Perhaps if I read the entire series in one go once completely, as many reviewers of television do once an entire series is complete, this would be easier.
Binti was a debut episode. It was kind of rushed, introduced too many characters that won't matter, but had the pieces to hook a new reader. In it Binti saved the world, stopping a war by use of a Chekhov's device that allows her to communicate with the militant jellyfish who slaughtered her ship. In the end she is going to school, with one of the aliens in tow as new best friend. The reader is not given much in explanation or resolution; it is expected that future episodes will fill in the details.
Binti:Home is that all important second episode. You know, after the advertising has already stopped and the time slot is moved to Friday night. But character growth comes in installments as new reveals are showcased. In this situation Binti's already rough trip home (major cultural and family pressures she was able to quasi avoid while at university) is further complicated when some family history shows up at her door. Binti must learn to deal with expectations, culural and family, and figure out where to fit them in her new life. With her new friends. And soon enough, with the other side of her family she never had to consider before.
I am still not enthralled by this series. Some cool sci-fi ideas, a great main character, and a focus on the personal rather than universe affecting events. All this is good. But even after two episodes, err, novelels I am not seeing the depth I had hoped for. This may just be a book where mileage can vary. I am still enjoying the series and the short page length make it easy to follow. But I can't help but feel there could be more here than the slow, not real deep story I have gotten thus far.
3 Stars
Copy for review provided by the publisher. ...more
I was blessed with the oppurtunity to do a Q & A with Lara Elena Donnelly. She talks the timeliness of the story and inspirations among other things. I was blessed with the oppurtunity to do a Q & A with Lara Elena Donnelly. She talks the timeliness of the story and inspirations among other things.
Both timely and timeless. Wonderful yet heartbreaking. Completely fucking awesome. Oh, and debut of the year.
A nationalist fervor has empowered the One State Party though they still lack the votes to control Amberlough City. Cyril DePaul once enjoyed the spy game but is now a man who doesn't quite want to admit he may be broken. Called back into field work he is sent to investigate the One State Party (better known as Ospies) and quickly finds himself way over his head. Soon enough he must make some tough decisions as the 'game' puts everything (and everyone) he cares about in danger.
Amberlough City sits on the cusp. At the Bumble Bee Cabaret Aristide Makricosta dances, flirts, and runs a small smuggling empire. His known relationship with Cyril will put them both in danger for many reasons; not the least of which is the Ospies lack of tolerance for their lifestyle. To provide cover Aristide helps introduce Cyril to fellow dancer Cordelia. All three start to play their own games; even as allies none dare share all of their cards. As Amberlough slides toward the fascist Ospie rule tough decisions are made. People are played, betrayed, and other wise used in a frantic attempt to survive in a changing world.
Think something like KJ Parker set in a cabaret club. Less fantasy than secondary world this is a spy thriller with strong characters and a heavy political influence. Also a cautionary tale, historical simile, and yet completely original. Nothing unique; many Ospie tactics are ripped straight from the history books. But original in set up and Amberlough City breaths its own life seen through the eyes of it's diverse cast of characters; spies and dancers, smugglers and police, revolutionaries and true believers.
The book is driven by the constant quest by those most quickly affected by lands quick decent to save something. Many are actually trying to save someone they love yet show no hesitation to throw someone else to the fire. One person's plan can get in the way of another; even if both have a similar end goal. And in the end it shows some of the true horror of a fascist landscape as people willingly engage in the worst in order to save their own (or themselves). In a totalitarian world life doesn't stop but fear takes over.
What makes Amberlough shine is in the way it weaves hope throughout a dreadful tale. At time it is false hope of course, but our main cast holds out that there is always an escape, or a way out, or one last chance to make a difference. That the reader is mostly left heartbroken is just a positive side effect.
Amberlough City stands strong right alongside the characters; setting and people holding equal billing in this robust world. Quickly enough the lands language and political differences become clear even if the characters motivations remained veiled. The Bumble Bee is a perfect setting; a natural place for characters to meet and plots to be hatched. It also sadly a volatile spot to watch during a drastic change; a free wheeling club of ill repute that is exactly everything the Ospies want out of society.
Debut of the year has already been stated and will be stood by, February release or no.
Simple but worth reading. Binti was perhaps not everything I hoped for but as the start of a serial story it is a great start.
Binti is a nove
Simple but worth reading. Binti was perhaps not everything I hoped for but as the start of a serial story it is a great start.
Binti is a novella about Binti, mathematical genius and first of her Himbi village to be accepted to a prestigious off-world university. This is a big step in more than one way; the Himbi people do not leave their isolated village. This not being an old colonial fantasy it must be noted that the Himbi are not backward, nor primitive, and are in fact quite technologically apt and Binti was training to join her families technology business. But the Himbi do keep their own ways and said ways are seen as strange when Binti journeys afar.
She initially runs into some cultural friction when she joins the living ships that will take her to Oomza University; strangers touching her hair and pointed questions about the otijize rub on her skin. But there appears to be some hope in the future as quickly friends are made. Though short it is one of the better aspects of the book; a group coming together over their shared love of math.
Then the militant jellyfish (the Meduse) board the ship and the trouble starts.
It is a short and sweet novella with a satisfactory ending. Binti is an intriguing character and as said before someone I want to continue reading about. The early interactions between cultures then move to the true alien culture shock when the Meduse enter the picture (everything is relative after all).
But it is too simplistic to work on its own. The ending is satisfactory but it comes to easy. Binti is shown to be capable and her mathematical genius helped her cause when the troubles started but a few lucky circumstances had a larger effect; items in her possession when she boarded the ship proved more important than anything she planned out. As well the alienness of the Meduse underwhelming; obviously different in physical appearance and biological functions but remarkable human when communication is made possible.
To be honest this felt like it would have been a fine short story or a great single plotline in a larger narrative. As it stands it was a great introduction to a character but didn't necessarily seem worth even its shorter novella page length. BUT, and this is a big one, a quick glance at the sequel tells me that Binti now has to face the people back home after her taboo escape into space. And that should interest anyone who read the book and knows how hard that will be for our protagonist.
Yes, I wasn't over whelmed. But I plan on reading on and that can never be overlooked when judging a good read.
My expectations are NOT too high. I didn't think so, but occasionally reading Young Adult fantasy books I find myself wondering if IPosted to
My expectations are NOT too high. I didn't think so, but occasionally reading Young Adult fantasy books I find myself wondering if I expect too much. After all the books are not being written for me (though I am sure no author would be upset to find their book as the next 'all ages' phenomenon). So if I read the latest YA craze and just don't get it, or complain about weak world building, or even just don't like it then I often think to myself 'maybe my expectations are just too high.'
Nope. Walk on Earth a Stranger is exactly what I needed to confirm this is not the case. Like Terry Pratchett and Catherynne Valente's great series' Walk on Earth a Stranger proves that good young adult fantasy doesn't have to be watered down and simplified. It especially doesn't have to be patronizing. It just has to change the point a view a bit to the younger side and then tell the story it needs to tell.
Now maybe Rae Carson is a genius. She set her fantasy in a pre-built world; the United States during the California gold rush. This makes it harder to poke holes in the world building, doesn't it? But she doesn't just borrow our world, she makes her characters fit into it like a glove. Characters I like. Characters I root for. In a realistic world. With smart dialogue and prose that never goes purple but also doesn't insult in simplicity. Yes, Walk on Earth a Stranger is exactly what all young adult fantasy should aim to be.
So what is it? A fantasy about a young girl with a gift (so far, nothing new). But Leah's secret is not your typical fantasy power; she is not about to become the chosen one who saves the world. No she has the ability to witch gold; sensing it from afar and honing in on it with ease. On her families' Georgia claim her father earned the nickname Lucky with no one knowing the real reason of his success. But Leah's dad is ill and the claim is mostly worked when news of gold out West hits. And the fairly happy life Leah leads comes to a shocking end very early in the book and suddenly the gift becomes more curse.
Due to said shocking events (no I won't give them away) Leah goes West hoping to catch up with her best friend. Knowing that at least one person has knowledge of her gift and will do anything to make use of it she chops her hair and heads west as the young man Lee. What follows is one of the most unexpected fantasy books I have seen; a period drama about life on the Oregon Trail. Yes, occasionally Lee's gift comes up. But for the most part life is hard enough without magic or evil men. The trail is hard and Lee's fears (some justified, others perhaps not) make trust extremely hard.
This is a story about friendships and relationships. It is a travelogue that actually goes somewhere. There is backstabbing and bad people but there is also hope and redemption. It is harsh at times, showing an unforgiving look at the Oregon Trail (though I'm not sure anyone died of dysentery so there goes my childhood knowledge). It is a simple, but wonderful, book.
The only real downside is that it is an obvious first book. Lee's gift is obviously going to be both blessing and curse and obviously going to be a catalyst going forward but was only occasionally put to use here. And there will have to be a change in style going forward because (spoiler alert for those who still don't understand how trilogies work) the trip to California is only the first step.
5 Stars
(For those keeping track this is only the second time I have given 5 stars to a YA book, with Pantomime by Laura Lam being the other)....more
A new take on an old tale... Scratch that. A new take on a lot of old tales. Cold winters are a fertile ground for stories to be Posted at
A new take on an old tale... Scratch that. A new take on a lot of old tales. Cold winters are a fertile ground for stories to be told around the fire. And even as the people in Pyotr's village practice Christianity they still take heed of the old stories. It is into this life that young Vasha is born; her birth the dying wish of her enigmatic mother. She grows up on the stories and has no need to believe in them because she can see the truth on her own. Vasha is a wild girl, beloved by her family but never quite understood.
Especially by her father's new wife, Anna. Every story needs its central point of conflict and the stepmother is an old classic. But what if the stepmother isn't evil but scared? Seeing daemons that no one else can see has left Anna shaken; only the villages small church gives comfort. A young priest sees Anna's fear and with it sees his own path to greatness. Sermons gain brimstone and fire and the old ways come under attack. Villagers who once left bread crumbs for creatures of the old stories become more fearful of the vengeful god Konstintine preaches. And fear only grows as the already tough winter starts to bite harder. As the village starts to look with suspicion at the strange girl in their midst Vasha will find herself face to face with two brothers known only in the old stories.
This is a seemingly simple story with a lot of depth. At times it seems to be Vasha vs the world but despite her 'strangeness' she is never short of allies. Nor is it purely a Christianity vs Pagan story as clearly both have power in Arden's version of Russia. It is also not a traditional 'retelling' as it mashes multiple folk tales into a defined historical context. What it is is a strong, original telling of a special girl and her journey between two competing worlds.
There is a lot to love here. Fans of Juliet Marillier should be happy with this debut and not just because of the folk tale influence. In fact when it comes to the prose and imagery The Bear and the Nightingale is probably a step above. This is probably also a good book for fans of Gaiman's American Gods as it deals with a battle between old and new beliefs in a much tighter and smaller focused way. The story is very polished and smartly leaves behind several years in chunks when appropriate. Most importantly the author weaves in the folk tale aspects but makes Vasha's Russia her own. For this The Bear and the Nightingale is worth a strong recommendation.
But it is not a perfect book. A strong character study it is not. Perhaps the most disappointing thing is Vasha's path is mostly laid out for her despite her fight against a predetermined path being her major drive in the book. With a few exceptions other characters fit an archetype (beloved tutor, firebrand preacher) rather than act as full characters. Anna showed a bit more depth than evil stepmother as she fights her own daemons (pun maybe intended) but often it was hard to remember she is more than her spiteful side. Of course this may be a losing battle as the characters are literally competing with the entities of Frost and Death and fairy tales for page space but it makes connecting with characters rather tough.
Overall a strong debut. With a unique voice and beautiful setting this may be a book with some staying power. More importantly Katherine Arden has set herself up as an author to keep an eye on.
Living world ships move through space; if there is any destination the people on the ships don't know it nor any history of another wa link:
Living world ships move through space; if there is any destination the people on the ships don't know it nor any history of another way. Sadly for these women the worlds are dying as entropy finally seems to be beating out their long living systems. Rival factions war for resources; recycling what they find in an effort to extend the life of their own piece of the sky. Zan wakes among one of these factions and slowly learns she has an ambitious plan for a rebirth of kinds. Problem is an almost complete memory loss gives her no idea what the plan is.
The way Hurley uses such a short page length to build multiple worlds and still have space for a story should be taught in school. No spare time is spent on wasted details yet characters' travels and conversions tell the reader everything that is needed to be known and more. This dying earth space opera checks all the right boxes. It is unique and alien. Dark, occasionally gross, and full of mystery. Strong imagery lets you see experience what Zan and her collected group of outcasts are experiencing. The world ships are a thing of wonder; but also horror as the curtain is pulled back to see exactly what it takes to keep them living for so long.
This is an author with a track record of making readers care for bad people doing bad things; even if there is occasionally justification for each action. Zan seems to be a basically good person; collecting a mixed group of allies as she works toward her unknown cause. Yet she has snatches of memories that make her doubt even her own intentions. Her path seems interlaced with Jayd's, a women who appears to be a friend (or more) but obviously has her own secrets. Both of these women are playing politics with monsters as the rival factions of the Legion cut deals, war, and otherwise live brutal lives on the unforgiving ships.
Though quickly paced the reader is always left one step behind. Because of Zan's memory loss the long game is as much a mystery to her as it is to the reader. Chapters focusing on Jayd are completely unreliable as her mind is so twisted its one is left to wonder if she even knows what she is hiding from who. This is both a pro and a con though. It makes each chapter a must read, one more page, 'oh didn't see that coming' experience. But by playing the cards so close close to the vest surprises can fall a bit flat. Questions of what is a betrayal and what is planned make it hard to get emotionally involved in the proceedings, even if intellectually one is 'all in.'
It is that lack of emotional connection that keeps this from being a really great book; though settling for really damn good is no insult. It is still completely unique, very engaging, and a stand alone to boot allowing one to avoid any fear of commitment. Come award season expect to see it get some run. Though the 'Lesbians in Space' tagline has already got a lot of internet traction please know that The Stars are Legion has an all women cast but is not solely defined by it. Men have no place on the legion and it both works and makes sense; a statement it may be but not one that doesn't back itself up within the narrative.
The Stars are Legion is yet another highly ambitious book from Kameron Hurley and once again she comes through with the good stuff. It has the scope space opera needs, the alienness that anything set in the future should have, and a strong enough story to carry it.
I know, I know! This is possibly everyone's favorite Young Adult book. It is dark and edgy and will appeal to fans of both The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones! (said somewhere, probably, because every damn fantasy book currently gets compared as such). And it is in such a unique setting! And it doesn't fall for traps like love triangles! And.. And.. And..
Ok look, I didn't hate this book. Not at all. Which is really quite amazing because I should hate this book.
The unique world I kept hearing about is the most simplistic Roman empire ever. The rulers are called Marshals. The sea people are Mariners. And the oppressed people who are no longer allowed to read because at one time they knew too much are the Scholars. I assume in the next book we will meet the forest people called Arbors and perhaps some mountain Cliffsmen. The Marshals are obviously a military people who rule through fear (five hundred years of, wait for it, Marshall law). Their best weapons against the Scholars are near invincible fighters called Masks who seem like they should be rare and memorable except for the fact that a damn school cranks them out in mass every year.
The majority of the plot involves a completely contrived 'trial,' a four part event that will decide the next king. It is over the top, full of awkward qualifications and rules designed to make it fit into a story, and frankly kind of dumb. Only four people enter, and they are all from the most recent class of Masks. (Because even one year of experience outside of a confined school would age them too much or something). At least there is an explanation for the randomness of the trials themselves but they still may be the dumbest way to pick a king outside of strange women lying in ponds distributing swords. If I wasn't listening to this book rather than reading it I may have just skimmed the actual trials.
Add on some minor annoyances such as the Scholar's Resistance seeming to have about fifty people total (really everything about the setting is too small in scale). And they are all too willing to meet in one place (split up you idiots!) and the knowledge that this land both speaks English and writes in it (and tattoos family mottos with it). One might think there was nothing about this book I enjoyed. And this isn't true at all. In fact, I am interested enough that I fully intend to read the next book. Let me explain.
Despite my complaints this is a fairly smooth story with a couple of interesting characters. Laia, a Scholar girl who deliberately enters slavery in an attempt to free her brother, stands out. She is full of doubt, living in hell, and positive she will fail. But her courage, and eventually her intelligence, prove her courage even to her doubting self. The seemingly unrealistic expectations the resistance have of her become clear in time.
The other protagonist, a Marshal Mask in training named Elias, is less interesting but has a great supporting cast. His relationship with best friend/possible love interest Helena is often entertaining even as it infuriates; but at least his stupid mistakes in this department are typicality mistakes such as not listening. And his mother is the highlight of the book; a scheming women in power where such a thing is rare who exudes pure evil in a way that is rarely seen anymore (I'm choosing to ignore the attempt to humanize her toward the end of the book because to hell with that).
And it is the strength of these characters and the realization that now that the stupid trials are over the plot can actually go somewhere that have given me hope for the future. Yes, I am going to read the next book in the series. I am going in cautiously, and if I so much as sniff a repeat of the trials plotline (Catching Fire I am looking at you) I am gone. So while I didn't fall in love with this book, I do understand its appeal.
Somewhat anyway. Having a four person trial is still a stupid way to choose a King.
Typically the third book of a trilogy forever sets the tone for how readers will remember the entire series. The first book, say Posted to
Typically the third book of a trilogy forever sets the tone for how readers will remember the entire series. The first book, say Dreamer's Pool, is what is responsible for sparking interest in the over reaching plot and (hopefully) major players in the coming story. In many cases this may be a readers introduction to the author as well; life long love may follow from a suitable impressive start. Dreamer's Pool was indeed a book like this, a beautifully crafted fairy tale that introduced many to Juliet Marillier. Most importantly it introduced readers to Blackthorn and Grim, a duo sure to entertain for books to come.
Something different was going on here; a broken 'couple' who needed each other but not in a way typically seen on page. Blackthorn (not her real name) in particular always jumped off the page. She is intelligent, emotional, and complex; a mostly good person who is currently clouded by thoughts that are assuredly not so good. A fae enforced bargain ensures she stays in one place helping the locals as a wisewoman/healer instead of focusing on the revenge she so eagerly seeks. Her partner, Grim (probably also not his real name), provides a balance that she comes to rely on to remain sane. They learn a bit about each other, solve a sticky mystery, and entertain anyone who wants a fairy tale they have not seen re-spun twenty times already.
The second book of a series must then provide a reason to keep reading through the trilogy. Tower of Thorns was not the same magical experience Dreamer's Pool was but it held its own. The two protagonists learn a bit more about each other and confront the fears that may keep them apart. A new mystery is solved. If one was already a fan of the series, and more importantly, already all-in on Blackthorn's plight thenenthusiasm doesn't wane and that third book is eagerly anticipated.
Back to that third book. The one that forever sets the memories in place, Den of Wolves. A book that not only must set up a whole new sub plot (that in reality takes up the majority of the page count), but also must start tying up the dangling plot lines two books before it have left it. Success gives the Blackthorn and Grim series lasting memory. Failure (or worse, mediocrity), dooms it to the dustiest shelves of used book stores everywhere.
Something Marillier seems to excel at is letting the reader think they know where everything is going and rather than shatter that feeling gradually showing that there is way more than even the most astute reader could guess. Having the cake and eating it, who could ask for more? The serial mystery format works surprisingly well and is no exception in Den of Wolves. A construction project with a mysterious history leads both Grim and Blackthorn to question everything about the family financing it. A man with obvious fae ties may be the key to unraveling the mystery but the past is almost a blank to him. All the while Blackthorn suddenly finds herself with an opportunity to provide some closure to her own past (and thus the series). But is she willing to pay the cost?
The two plot lines are woven so tightly they almost feel like one; at no point does it feel like the author is fighting her own story to fit everything in. The frustration with this book may come in how easy it seems the long game comes together. Through two books Blackthorn was defined by her past; at least in her own head. Readers hoping for the epic confrontation with the man her hatred burns for may be disappointing by the almost casual nature of the final showdown. On one side of the coin it actually feels real; it takes more than one person to solve large problems. It also allows the protagonist to fully show her growth, specifically in the decisions she makes when her change at vengeance comes. On the other side of the coin it comes down in a fairly anti-climatic form. Still a bit heart wrenching, but not exactly exciting.
How this series is remembered reader to reader will most likely hinge on how that ending is perceived. Overall this has been a very strong series and a worthy read for any lover of fairy tales tired of the same old thing. Den of Wolves shouldn't disappoint anyone already invested. And those who haven't started Blackthorn and Grim should probably give it a chance. That all important third book did exactly what it is supposed to for the series.
Still a good book but but missing the wonder of the first book. Blackthorn isn't really surprising anymore; we know her tendencies. Grim gets a bit ofStill a good book but but missing the wonder of the first book. Blackthorn isn't really surprising anymore; we know her tendencies. Grim gets a bit of backstory and it is actually pretty meh. And when it is all done I am not sure Blackthorn actually solved anything as opposed to just being drug along.
That said, it was a page turner and still a more hopeful book than many I read so a good change of pace. Consider this series a must read for me still. ...more
Not my thing. Enjoy the strong bond between the two main characters but not a whole lot else. A lot of text explaining the magical system we are dealiNot my thing. Enjoy the strong bond between the two main characters but not a whole lot else. A lot of text explaining the magical system we are dealing with only to find that none of it matters because the protagonist is setting off something new. Just good enough that I stuck around to see how it ends. But not a series I plan on reading more of. ...more
Pen name of Delilah S. Dawson, Wake of Vultures sets up to be a book tailor made for the likes of me. Diverse cast, Old West vibe, and a quick pace arPen name of Delilah S. Dawson, Wake of Vultures sets up to be a book tailor made for the likes of me. Diverse cast, Old West vibe, and a quick pace are all present. And for the most part it was a hit for me. I flew through it, the protagonists� place in the story and the overall vibe. A nice big disclaimer warns the reader that this is based on a U.S. Old West that never was; a very smart move to keep us history majors from trying to dissect the exact time frame.
The story starts with Nettie, a girl of mixed blood living with her white adopted ‘parents� and doing all the failing farms work. A short setup lets us know that she is great with horses, treated like dirt, and convinced that as bad as things are on the farm they would only be worse in the wider world due to her skin color. But a night time run-in with a human not entirely human opens her eyes to a supernatural world that she will never be able to escape from. Suddenly she can see past the mundane, and a drowned woman is going to force her on a geas whether she wants one or not.
The author makes no bones about the purpose of the book, bring up the #WeNeedDiverseBooks hashtag and giving us a heroine of mixed blood and confused sexual and gender identity (as in confused due to cultural conditioning, Nettie knows just what she is) in a world where neither is exactly accepted. Wake of Vultures was designed to give a presence to the oft forgotten in fantasy; people of color, LGBT characters, and oppressed natives. How well this works will never be my domain, I admit that seeing the only natives present having supernatural powers while most of the whites don’t is a bit of a flag. Still, I am a believer that natural screen time is better than writing entire groups out of the story through omission. And throughout this is a book with an agenda that manages to stand on its own through quality writing and a (mostly) tight story; it is not a story of style without substance.
Only a few issues, none of which are deal breakers. As much as I love this new wave of Old West fantasy this particular outing had a strong feel of urban fantasy. Specifically the middle of the book bogged down in the overload of myths and fantasy creatures being introduced page after page that felt more like filler than anything crucial to the plot. And I would like to make a new rule for everyone to follow. Once a character discovers that the supernatural is real they are not allowed to still be surprised when they find yet another example of the supernatural in their world. The existence of vampires should leave the mind open that there also may be werewolves, sirens, or anything else that crawls out of the woodwork.
I would recommend the book almost without reservation for the entertainment value but I am not sure I saw much to make it memorable. Overall? Pretty solid....more
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