I love Sarah J Maas. I loved Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses, and the premise for this sounded absolutely amazing: a murder mystery fiI love Sarah J Maas. I loved Throne of Glass and A Court of Thorns and Roses, and the premise for this sounded absolutely amazing: a murder mystery filled with supernatural creatures written by ones of my faves, yes please! But this...this was just vile! I had to DNF.
I have tried over and over again with this book, but in the end...I just can't anymore. The F-bomb is dropped about a dozen or more times on each page. I don't mind swearing but this was a completely unnecessary amount, I don't even know anyone who speaks like that! Bryce, the protagonist, is a drug taking, booze inducing, skin-tight clothes exposing, nightclubbing Fae. She was not a protagonist I could root for.
I felt like this was trying way too hard to be an 'adult' novel but failed miserably and turned into a mess. I think Maas' stride is really in YA. The info dump of the world is lathered way too heavily. There is the continuous use of the same word over and over again, like 'alphahole' and 'silky', thankfully not 'mate'. And let's just say the characters were very reminiscent of familiar characters of her other works.
Also this book could be used as weapon because of how big it is! It did not need to be THAT flipping long! The first few chapters was like watching paint dry just to get going somewhere...and even then nothing was really happening. It felt like this was published for mass hype rather than the original, engrossing stories that Maas previously has written.
I am so so sooo disappointed in this read. You have no idea how much I was looking forward to this. The premise, author, hype and cover really sucked me in, only to punch me in the face from the very first few lines....more
I found the third book in the series to be lacking compared to the first two.
As always, I really liked how Candace and Amber weave the characters fromI found the third book in the series to be lacking compared to the first two.
As always, I really liked how Candace and Amber weave the characters from all the Oz books into their story, it adds such a different and refreshing take to any Oz retellings authors undertake.
Jack and Ozma's characters seemed to have no substance except for their lust and desire for each other. That's it. I felt the plot breezed through the conflict but focused heavily on their feelings for each way too much and in I read it til the end out of my love for the series but it didn't grip my interest like the previous novels.
I loved how all the characters came together and bounced off each other, adding to the dynamic relationships. Still a great series all-in-all and I can't wait to see how everything and everyone comes together at the end!...more
The series continues into the whimsical world of the Hedge.
The author has added a good dash of mystery into the mix, which added intrigue t3.5 stars.
The series continues into the whimsical world of the Hedge.
The author has added a good dash of mystery into the mix, which added intrigue to the story. The addition of the cousin was very reminiscent of Narnian vibes which I thoroughly enjoyed. And I loved the combination of Fairy lore and witches, *starts singing....these are few of my favourite things... I love the friendship between the trio of witches, each has their own bright spark and personality.
Also, if I go missing, it's because I am moving to Hartford hall! What an amazing and enchanting place, it reminds me a bit of Howl's Moving Castle And the tea shop! McKenna continues to create a vivid, whimsical world of Witches!
My only issue was that I felt this book was a little bit longer than what it needed to be, but otherwise I enjoyed it, especially the twists and turns!
It is fun, and full of magic. An easy and cosy story to soak up on a crisp, autumn day with a hot cup of tea....more
Wizard of Oz meets Sarah J. Maas for an edgy, adult take on a classic...with Fae!
Normally I tend to not like retellings of my beloved classics when thWizard of Oz meets Sarah J. Maas for an edgy, adult take on a classic...with Fae!
Normally I tend to not like retellings of my beloved classics when they take darker and steamier turns, however I absolutely LOVE the Faeries of Oz series. I love how the authors have tied in the original works of Baum's and created something new and deliciously magical with so much depth. Crow and Reva are absolute dynamite together! Their history and backgrounds are so layered and complex. Their are new faces, old faces, and surprising faces.
It is well thought out in regards to characters and plot, and you can tell there is a lot of heart that went into this. Both authors have nailed the pacing with their books! It is evenly paced enough for action, world-building, and development to form without stagnating or rushed. It has spice but just the right amount and doesn't go into excessive detail which hits the sweet, spicy spot for me.
So far this series has to be my favourite Oz retelling ever! Everything was vividly epic, the burning romance, the non-stop adventure, the deadly and vivid inhabitants of the land.
At first it was hard to imagine my beloved Ozians as anything but the wholesome light-hearted characters I know The Wizard of Oz meets Throne of Glass
At first it was hard to imagine my beloved Ozians as anything but the wholesome light-hearted characters I know and love, but what Candace and Amber have done have made this into something so creative that it stands out on its own, characters, storyline, setting and all. I absolutely LOVED how the authors incorporated the Oz books, very clever and very imaginative
This is a darker, bloody and spicy 'sequel' to The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy is all grown up and her old companions are some seriously sexy fae! As much as I am one to prefer non-spice, this had spice and it was GOOD! Yes I know, I was surprised myself. At only 200 pages this was paced to perfection!
This is jam-packed with witty banter, enemies to lovers, fae beings, psycho villains, spice, gore, and a gripping and enchanting plot. This is an alluring start to the Faeries of Oz series, one I will happily return to along the yellow brick road (whatever is left of the road).
We're not in Oz anymore...I mean we are, but not the Oz you know.
A short but poignant Christmas story set in the Mirrorworld.
The moral of the story is touching and has this whimsical Dickensian feel to it, taking plA short but poignant Christmas story set in the Mirrorworld.
The moral of the story is touching and has this whimsical Dickensian feel to it, taking place in an alternative London where fairy tales are alive. For a story that is under 100 pages, it is jam packed with magic and wonder, a tale of friendship, treasure, mystery, and opening your heart to trust. This is a fully completed storyline that also leaves room to be included in future novels set in the same world.
Tabetha and Ofelia are fantastic characters, each with their own struggle and their own heart.
Cornelia isn't just a talented storyteller but also a wonderful illustrator, perfectly embodying the story with haunting and alluring sketches.
This novella is a delightful read for Christmas, as well as making a lovely Christmas gift too! I do hope Tabetha and Ofelia make an appearance in upcoming Mirrorworld novels!
Instantaneously I was hooked back into the Mirrorworld. The world oozes with lush creations, the characters (new and old) are wrapped in cloaks of intInstantaneously I was hooked back into the Mirrorworld. The world oozes with lush creations, the characters (new and old) are wrapped in cloaks of intrigue and allure.
Funke has an exceptional gift of storytelling, her words are beautiful and paint vivid pictures in the mind. She has created a cultural fairy-tale mash-up world. It is layer upon layer of fables lore, deep character emotions and relationships, and engrossing adventures. The drawings at the beginning of chapters just adds more to Cornelia’s whimsical writing.
The characters are complex making you feel differently about each of the, one minute you love them, the next you want to shake them etc. There is more romance added to the third book, and Funke has woven all of these magnificent relationship threads within all the characters.
The ending leaves a great big chasm in your heart that demands answers (but in a good way)
If you enjoyed the Inkheart series, you will enjoy this one, even though they differ from each other, the Mirrorworld series still has that same flavour and ingenuity, although the latter is a tad more mature in some subjects. The series offers so much more to come!
Another wonderful volume of Oz stories, with crazy adventures and lots of colourful new characters.
Baum had the perfect mind and imagination for chilAnother wonderful volume of Oz stories, with crazy adventures and lots of colourful new characters.
Baum had the perfect mind and imagination for children and children at heart. Majority of the characters make repeat appearance which is nice, (except for Button Bright – I cannot stand the character, he should get lost somewhere of the page!). There is a good blend of old and new together. It’s surprising how ‘modern’ the author was in his time.
The Patchwork girl of oz is a light-hearted and kooky adventure just like it’s titled character. The glass cat is so sassy I love her! If they ever made a film, Sarah Millican would be the PERFECT voice for the character We get a tiny glimmer of a backstory to Toto in Tik-Tok of Oz, as well as a whole plethora of female main characters that transition throughout all the books I ship the scarecrow and patchwork girl so hard! And I love Trot and Cap’n Bill that join the dynamic host of characters.
The storylines remain the same, and everything is resolved with a happy ending, so it’s a nice, light, and comforting read in between books with lovable and familiar characters to fall back upon.
Imagine to my delight and surprise to find out that not only is there one book set in the wonderful land of Oz, nor 2 or 3…but 14!!! And that’s just fImagine to my delight and surprise to find out that not only is there one book set in the wonderful land of Oz, nor 2 or 3…but 14!!! And that’s just from the amazing L. Frank Baum! There are about 40 books altogether in the series from other authors who took up his mantle, but I think Baum’s mantle could never be replaced.
A classic tale from it’s colourful and miscellaneous characters (there’s a glass cat, a patchwork girl, a very hungry tiger and so, so much more!) Each book is strapped with a clear morale to the story; self-love, kindness, hard work, loyalty… the list goes on just like this series. I love the blend of old, familiar characters with vibrant new! The creation of all the different inhabitants in the land blow my mind (in a good way) that sometimes I can’t even begin to imagine them as described.
The bottom line really is in this zany, imaginative, colourful world is - there is no place like…Oz! (followed very closely behind by home)
Exciting adventures abound! Grab your combat boots and wand and get ready to turn the fairy tale world upside down! A fresh and delightful take on faiExciting adventures abound! Grab your combat boots and wand and get ready to turn the fairy tale world upside down! A fresh and delightful take on fairy tales that hooked me from the first page. Crisanta Knight is not your ordinary princess, she is one that kicks butt with sass and determination, yet is also very grounded to the reader in a relatable perspective. Stereotypes are challenged and feminism is strong. Geanna Culbertson has created a worthy heroine, an interesting world, and a really powerful moral to the story. There is plethora of memorable quotes, ones that really tickle your heart and make you smile. Girls of all ages and backgrounds are empowered, whether it's the characters or the readers themselves! I seriously wanted to high-kick some baddies after I finished.
Geanna expertly creates believable and interesting characters, and the world-building I seriously cannot get enough of, everything is just so seamless and woven with intrigue, magic, adventure, and laughs.
A great new series which I can't wait to follow more Crisanta Knight and her motely crews adventures!
Another fantastic addition to the Kingdom and Empires series! Jacyln Moriarty once again delivers a thrilling magical adventure full of wit and heart!Another fantastic addition to the Kingdom and Empires series! Jacyln Moriarty once again delivers a thrilling magical adventure full of wit and heart!
This lovably, unique group of individuals tackle on mysterious tasks, non-stop action, and the tests of friendship, all to save a magical city of tiny Elves! There were familiar faces and new faces that all worked really well together. Moriarty shines a light on people's strengths and weaknesses, and how we can overcome obstacles by working together and acceptance.
Kelly Canby's illustrations continue to capture Jaclyn Moriarty's wit and whimsicalness, making them a perfect author and illustrator partnership.
My favourite part of all was towards the end, when Reuben the Genie explained how life itself was magic in its own "twisty-turny, topsy-turvey" way. I had to take a picture of it as it really captured my heart and was something I feel like I can always look back on and treasure those words to help me whenever I need.
This book and series is like a big comforting hug and bursting with happiness! Something to be enjoyed by readers of ALL ages! I do so hope there will be more, these books are too wonderful to stop!...more
An absolute magical start to a new series filled with witchy goodness!
Not going to lie, this was definitely a cover buy, I mean look at it...LOOK AT TAn absolute magical start to a new series filled with witchy goodness!
Not going to lie, this was definitely a cover buy, I mean look at it...LOOK AT THAT COVER...it is gorgeous, then after reading the blurb I knew I was going to fall madly for this story.
McKenna has created such an organic story that is packed full of lovable characters, whimsical vibes, and light doses of intrigue. It has all the makings of those classic fantasy middle grades with a contemporary flare, featuring a strong and brave heroine and her adventure in an enchanted town. This book is a perfect encapsulation of cosy cottage-core magic.
The story has such vivid imagination to it, but the author has a way of writing it in a simple yet exciting manner that flows in a perfect pace. I loved too how it was also set in the 20th century, I loved the vintage/historical setting throughout. And of course the cat Montague is my favourite character!
This has become a new favourite series of mine! I cannot wait to read more adventures. I feel like an honorary witch when I hold this book in my hands and am transported away to Hedgely on broom!...more
The Darling siblings are older allowing their personalities to sparkle. Braswell really captured Wendy as a This one was my favourite Twisted Tales
The Darling siblings are older allowing their personalities to sparkle. Braswell really captured Wendy as a 16 year old, her mannerisms, thoughts, and speech, and I absolutely loved that she became a suffragette and a voice to make changes in the world at the end, it really suited her character. I do sort of wish John and Michael could have joined Wendy's escapades but it was still a marvelous adventure without them, and the bits we did see of them, the author wrote them to be just how I would imagine them older.
The best part was the relationship between Tink and Wendy. I adored their blossoming friendship whilst still remaining true to their characters. Tink was still the irascible and headstrong fairy but developed a thought process and sentiments. It was wonderful to know that their friendship remained right through. I always wanted to read a rendition where the two were close friends and Braswell certainly delivered it, making it organic and heartwarming.
Neverland practically busted off the pages with the rich and expanded word-building executed in true Neverland fashion. The tweaks here and there were cleverly done and refreshing, I'm looking you Skipper. The land and its characters are given a sense of realness; relationships, the passing of time, personal development and self-realization, gender-roles etc.
I was absolutely hooked (ha!) and enjoyed every single second of Tink and Wendy's adventure together. The best read in the series and did incredible justice to Peter Pan
This series cannot get any better, and then it does by adding in classic literary characters from beloved books such as King Arthur, Peter Pan, Alice This series cannot get any better, and then it does by adding in classic literary characters from beloved books such as King Arthur, Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, The Wizard of Oz, and Robin Hood, along with favourite fairytale characters. Colfer has found his true calling as a writer.
These characters are so truly special to me, I look to Alex as my ultimate book bestie. Red's character development continues to flourish whilst still retaining the Red that we all know and fell in love with. Connor and Peter Pan and Robin Hood had me laughing eyes out, they were such a comedic trio. I feel like all the literary characters fitted so well together with the fairytale characters, and the way Chris has written them, you would think that he has personally spoken to the original authors. He has captured them so brilliantly, their core and personality's a wonderful blend of originality, modernization, and keeping true to the classics. The main villain, Morina, is deliciously evil. My only qualm is how Robin Hood was presented as egotistical and obnoxious.
Learning the character's backstories are always the best. They are realistic and layered. Colfer and can make you understand why the villain has become the villain. It makes so much sense that it actually feels like it's the legitimate origin of their story, that's how brilliant Chris's imagination is. His writing style is descriptive, witty, and easy-flowing dialogue.
(view spoiler)[ I've envisaged Arthur and Alex being together and then Guinevere and Lancelot can be together and then everyone is happy! (hide spoiler)]
Seriously this man is the best at cliffhangers even if it leaves my soul craving for more so much that it hurts!!! Arrgghh!! Another magical and fun adventure in this latest TLOS instalment.
This was a wonderful fairy tale rendition of epic proportions.
In a realm of classic fairy tales one girl must use her extraordinary gift to find lost This was a wonderful fairy tale rendition of epic proportions.
In a realm of classic fairy tales one girl must use her extraordinary gift to find lost things that will enable her and her motley crew to save them all from the evil queen and the darkness. (Dun, dun, dun!!) Full of adventure, intrigue, romance, and magic!
Right from the get-go you are drawn in, hooked until the very end. K. E. Barden is a natural storyteller! She has taken classic fairy tales and fables and turned them into something completely innovative and fresh. Everything is well thought out and lavish in details. The characters are complex and compelling, with sharp dialogues excellent character development, they connect the reader to their resonance.
My only bother was that it felt a bit dense in sentencing structure which slowed the pace and my attention, for me at times. That being said though, this really is a phenomenal debut!
This was a highly entertaining read that I was intrigued to see who and what would happen next on the pages. I really enjoyed the twists Barden employs on these beloved and classic characters and I can't wait to see who else will make an appearance. I am also curious to see who Eve is and her connections to the fairytale world.
This series came to a beautiful end. Valente is just a master storyteller! The Queen of words!
It remains its colourful, flowery, zany, and unique storThis series came to a beautiful end. Valente is just a master storyteller! The Queen of words!
It remains its colourful, flowery, zany, and unique storytelling all the way through from the first book to the very last. The characters bring utter delight as the race for the crown of Fairyland ensues. Filled with lush imagery that literally tantalizes the senses and a whimsical philosophy and wit, Cathrynne M. Valente has created a delightful series, that will capture your heart under lock and key.
September is a tribute to the classic literature heroines that we all know and love. She devolved from a child to a young woman seamlessly. What I love most about this series is the quirky menagerie of creatures that fill the world of Fairyland. It's not just the typical fairies and gnomes and pixies but a whole plethora of fair-folk creatures from traditional mythology. I undertook research into these creatures as I wanted to learn more and was fascinated by how the author incorporated them into the series. Standing ovation!!! This is exactly how I imagine Fairyland to be!
It really was the perfect ending to a beloved series, but I will dearly miss the gang of September, Saturday, and A-through-L (Ell.) Though there could be a potential for a spin-off series...
Out of all the books in the Fairyland series this one was my least favourite but that’s not to say that it wasn’t good, it was still an utter delight Out of all the books in the Fairyland series this one was my least favourite but that’s not to say that it wasn’t good, it was still an utter delight to read, I just really like September and her motley crews adventure more. In this tale through Fairyland, we follow a troll named Hawthorn and his friends as he makes his way back through Fairyland, his true home.
It’s a fun, absurd, and fabulous read. Her writing heightens the senses, you can really see, hear, touch, smell, and taste all the beautiful words she is describing. It’s strongest moral is he ability to be comfortable in your own skin, knowing what does and doesn’t feel right to characters own body, and that there really is no such thing as being ‘normal’. I loved Blunderbuss the combat wombat!
The ending was in true Valente style; heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.
The story takes its time to finally getting to Fairyland, as the first main part of the book is set it Chicago, which was a stalemate for me personally, as I like full fantasy worlds or maybe 2-3 chapters set in our world and the rest the fictional landscape (if we are talking about portal fantasy).
It is better to read this book in the series as it does connect to the last book, but Hawthorn’s story is completely his own compared to September’s first trilogy.
What a wonderful collection of classic fairy-tales from the brilliant mind of Hans Christian Andersen. He will forever be up there along with the BrotWhat a wonderful collection of classic fairy-tales from the brilliant mind of Hans Christian Andersen. He will forever be up there along with the Brothers Grimm and Charles Perrault as the founding writers of fairy-tales.
It was really fascinating to lean the true origin stories of some beloved characters; The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina, The Ugly Duckling, as well as discovering unknown and underrated stories.
Like with all fairy tale collections, each story has a strong moral and lesson to be learned, no matter what stage of life. Even though they are short stories they are full of heart and leave a powerful impact on the heart.
Whilst not as grim as Grimm Brothers, Andersen’s stories take on a more melancholic vibe with strands of beauty and hope like weaving a tapestry of tales. There is a realness to these stories. I feel like we get a true glimpse how Andersen saw the world, and how magic could be crafted from nature and people.
This book oozes with drama, intrigue, and a whole lot of sexual tension. So much so that I have no clue whetherI am a bag of emotions after this read!
This book oozes with drama, intrigue, and a whole lot of sexual tension. So much so that I have no clue whether Jude and Cardan are absolutely in love or absolutely loathe each other. Now I personally do not like 'bully' romance, but there is something about their chemistry which makes them hypnotic together, like you know there is something much more deeper in their hearts waiting for you to find out. Together they create a beautiful chaos.
Between the two of them I want to smack their heads together and I want to shake Jude for all her ideas and Cardan for his mischievous emotions. But I do this all with love. There are parts I was whooping them up; Cardan for becoming the King he was meant to be, his confession to Jude, Jude's unwavering strength and determination.
Whilst it started slow, the plot climbed to it's apex with an unrelenting grip, delivering a smashing ending that knocks the wind out of you. Everything became like a game of chess but much more intriguing. Holly Black has created this perfectly enchanting faery world that is filled with both horror and beauty.
In The Wicked King betrayals are rife, chemistry is in the air, and the drama is delicious.
Jacq.and.the.readstalk
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