An epic final journey and conclusion to this amazing fantasy series! My aunty was the one who introduced me to this series and thank goodness she did!An epic final journey and conclusion to this amazing fantasy series! My aunty was the one who introduced me to this series and thank goodness she did! (She knows me so well). Everything is tied up neatly in a satisfied bow. Just after J.R.R. Tolkien would this man, David Eddings, sit. The world-building and characters are top notch. Silk is one of my favourite characters however Kal ‘Zakath really grew on me as his character developed in such a natural way that it didn’t feel forced. Another major win/spoiler is that this great fantasy doesn’t kill off all of your favourite characters! Yay for living!
My mind is still REELING! This book had me absolutely drowning in it, my heart was pounding, and I think I gave myself multiple paper cuts from flickiMy mind is still REELING! This book had me absolutely drowning in it, my heart was pounding, and I think I gave myself multiple paper cuts from flicking the pages so quickly!
The one thing that gets me into certain books is the lore the authors create, especially if there is a tie or foundation to other classic works of literature, and Stephanie's was so creative and rich and layered I was completely submerged. Everything from the descriptions to the background to the interactions was just so imaginative and beautifully written.
I liked Evangeline so much better than the first book, she reminded me of myself at times. What made her endearing was her unwillingness to give up on hope and believe in magic and love. Physically she's not that strong compared to others but I loved that author made her heart her strongest feature and she didn't pretend to be tough, I found it really refreshing in a main character and something to connect with. Now normally with the 'bad boy' I can appreciate them as characters but am not infatuated by their wicked nature because I don't like people who are pricks...but oh my god of heartbreak Jacks! I loved every intimate moment he and Evangeline shared and wanted more, which Garber beautifully delivered!
The ending left me with my jaw on the floor and my heart screaming! Give me the next one! I bow down to Stephanie Garber and her imagination! This is a whimsical and ethereal delight of a fairy-tale fantasy.
P.S. I want to RAID Evangeline's wardrobe!!!!!!!!!!!...more
This is a wonderful medley of Princess and the Pauper mixed with Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, with elements of Cinderella and Frozen sprinkled throThis is a wonderful medley of Princess and the Pauper mixed with Snow White and Sleeping Beauty, with elements of Cinderella and Frozen sprinkled through. It has royalty, witches, rogues, kings, and fierce beasts.
This collaboration by these two talented authors (who are in fact sisters-in-law) is an absolutely absorbing read filled with magic, charm, and life-or-death thrills. The banter is hilarious and the romance...THE ROMANCE...Uggghhhhh is perfection!! Sweet, heart-pounding romance in doses that is just my cup of tea when it comes to that type of genre. Shen and Tor made me swoon!
Wren and Rose make perfect opposing characters that blend harmonious to counterbalance the other twin. Twin princesses separated at birth undertake the ultimate switch, although for one it is unknowingly, which make it all the more interesting as the twins' differing lives and views unfold. I didn't favour one twin over the other, they were both equally as brilliant.
This was so damn good! A non-stop read of intrigue.
The characters are complicated and emotive. Every single one grows and develops along their journeyThis was so damn good! A non-stop read of intrigue.
The characters are complicated and emotive. Every single one grows and develops along their journeys, in particular Jules. I love every single character except Katherine BUT having said that Blake explores her motives and her emotions, touching here and there on remorse, that it makes you see there could be redemption/hope for her. (view spoiler)[ I just really hope that Mira does not die! (hide spoiler)]
There is so much going on; rebellion, betrayal, romance, murder, each characters' storyline is constantly intriguing. The history of Fennbirn was elaborated, other gifts explored (war + seer), and mysteries unravelled. The island itself has "Lost" vibes in regards to its nature. What we have come to know as the islands' 'lore' gets flipped on its head. It definitely surpassed the previous book.
While some would view this as slow, I think it was set at just the right pace, a tantalising read as we are pulled through the chapters by more clues, revelations, and questions. I felt so many emotions reading this, but the one feeling I was surprised at was fear, the undead queens gave me chills and the mysterious mist was horrifying. It was great.
Are you serious with that ending!!?? Kendare Blake can really deliver a cliff hanger, I need the next book asap to find out what happens next!! A revolution has arisen and so too does the turmoil....more
A satisfying and epic conclusion to the Belgariad series!
The storyline is fantastic, Eddings has created a lively fantasy adventure, continuing with A satisfying and epic conclusion to the Belgariad series!
The storyline is fantastic, Eddings has created a lively fantasy adventure, continuing with his dynamic cast of characters and the ultimate showdown of good vs. evil. A master storyteller! The characters have grown and developed so much but still retain their signature flaws that make them lovably imperfect heroes. Silk still remains my ultimate favourite (but it’s a touch choice as I love them all so much). A fantasy series that is full of comfort during every re-read.
Eddings adds a good mixture of fantasy (of epic proportions), wit, adventure, love interests, plenty of action, and stepped in its own mythology and fantastical history. Old-school fantasy at its finest but with modern dialogue and hilarious banter. You can tell this was Edding’s literary baby; the details and thoughts put into this series and beyond (*cough* the Mallorean) are a testament his imagination and writing skills.
Everything was tied up perfectly and the journey completed.
So I’m walking down the street with my aunty, chatting about books (of course) when she say’s to me: “Have you read the Belegariad series? I think youSo I’m walking down the street with my aunty, chatting about books (of course) when she say’s to me: “Have you read the Belegariad series? I think you’ll like it” I had not heard of such series, but as she explained the different countires, the gods, the mythical creatures I became intrigued, and then in love with this series.
Honestly David Eddings does not get enough credit, at all! A fantasy of epic proportions, published in the 80s, and yet still can be read today as if they were just published. His world-building abilities sit beneath Tolkien; fully developed and detailed, and don’t even get me started on the fight scenes! The best part of the whole series and where Eddings really shines is with his characters. It has a cast of characters that we can affiliate with that are also varying in ages as well as cultures. Throughout the quest barriers are brought down between characters and their different origins, making them a motley, snarky, supportive and powerful group that become a big family.
The journey is long but the constant banter, dysfunctional relationships, colourful characters, make it an enjoyable magical adventure to re-read over and over again. It’s a light read considered against other epic fantasies but nothing short of full-on action, adventures, and dramas.
If you love a good questing adventure with a team of motley characters (which includes sorcerers, shapeshifters, knights, princesses, and thieves) then jump on this series!
While compared to the previous two books, it does not meet the same standard (hence the minus half star), however it4.5. We have a map people! A map!!
While compared to the previous two books, it does not meet the same standard (hence the minus half star), however it is still a great addition to the series and once again delivers an engrossing plot, phenomenal worlds, complex mysteries, and unique characters.
This was all about Ophelia finding herself and more importantly her self-worth. Move over Jude and Cardan because Ophelia and Thorn have arrived and they are one power-couple! The fact that we got to explore a different ark and learn about the other family spirits was so fascinating and I am captivated to learn more. Dabos has blended all religious mythology/deities from other cultures and put them together (in what could be a realistic way) as family spirits governing their own arks imbued with their own powers, it's genius!!
The story is unpredictable in a good way, leading to further mysteries later. I loved the inclusion of new characters (even though I missed the old ones), and all retain the morally-grey theme that taints each character, except for Blaise, he is such a darn cutie, but then again with this series anything can happen! There is no series quite like this which makes it a refreshing new fantasy series to obsess over.
I NEED to know what happens next!!!! I need answers and I need them now!
Queen Guinevere is an icon in this Camelot Rising series.
This is a layered plot with so many elements woven in; mystery, witchcraft, love in many formQueen Guinevere is an icon in this Camelot Rising series.
This is a layered plot with so many elements woven in; mystery, witchcraft, love in many forms between the characters, as well as disloyalty, all on such a grand scale. What really got me was the fact that the author has interwoven elements of the classic Welsh tales of Arthur and his Court, it made me research into the legends and characters, I was completely fascinated!
Guinevere and Lancelot's self-discovery journey is beautifully entwined with the female bond of friendship. I'm not going to lie, it took me until this second book to actually really enjoy the different take on Lancelot being a woman. Normally I'm very stubborn when it comes to retellings and changing iconic characters genders, but I thoroughly loved what Kiersten did and how she work her concept with the story, and actually improving the legend! And I loved the tale of Tristan and Isolde, so heart-warming!
I LOVED how the women of Arthurian legend are being portrayed in a strong and positive light, especially the author's take on Morgana! I have always felt her story was much more than the labelled villainess. Mordred too has more personality behind him and his actions making him such a great addition. I also love how the knights too were also described, giving them more heart than just brawn.
There was a whole lot of internal monologue and repetition which reduced the star rating, but I still really enjoyed reading this!
This continues to be my favourite retelling of Arthurian legends!
Harry Potter meets Hunger Games but in a diverse world that is full of astrology!
I'll admit, it took me a bit to get into this, with all the informatiHarry Potter meets Hunger Games but in a diverse world that is full of astrology!
I'll admit, it took me a bit to get into this, with all the information on this new world, culture, magic system, and how it all worked with the Zodiacs, BUT once I did was I was completely and utterly hooked! This is so imaginative and lush in descriptions; the world-building, the detailed structure, the beautiful garments, the tantalising food, it's like a sensory delight while reading it.
Learning about different cultures and language made the story even more richer. I was engrossed with Talah and Firas's journey. I want to learn more and more about the Galaxy! I'm a Libra, and I was absolutely delighted with how the Librans were depicted! All of the Zodiacs were fascinating, their personalities, their abilities, their appearances; Michele Khalil has set up one stunning and captivating fantasy series! She has made an alluring world that is abundant in diverse cultures and characters.
There were a few editing errors but nothing to warrant against the books awesomeness!
Thanks to that cliffhanger I need the second book now!...more
We get to follow Garion and his crew (with some new faces) once again for the quest of good over evil.
Some may say that this story is just the same asWe get to follow Garion and his crew (with some new faces) once again for the quest of good over evil.
Some may say that this story is just the same as the first quest, and while it is in some regards, it's still completely different. Garion is older, he's a father now. His reality and perception differ greatly from when he was a boy. There are new faces that tag along, each vital and as unique to the first companions. Polgara, Belgarath, Silk, Ce'Nedra and Durnik continue to grow themselves along the journey, whether it's with their relationships or skills etc, shaping each other along the journey. The characters have matured and therefore the journey is transformed.
Eddings continues to supply his characteristic witty dialogue, meticulous detail, and thoroughly researched plotlines.
Given the time that is was written the women characters are bada* in different ways that make them so powerful. Polgara is a fierce sorceress and matriarch, Ce’Nedra is a mother on a mission, Velvet is the female version of Silk but better, Cyradis a shy but powerful seer, and Vella uses her seductions to her own advantage. Ain’t nobody standing in their way.
Another fun epic fantasy saga that dives deeper into the world of the Alorns and Angaraks.
Once again Kendare Blale delivers another page-gripping novel about the Queens of Fennbirn and their fight for the crown. The queen is crowned in thisOnce again Kendare Blale delivers another page-gripping novel about the Queens of Fennbirn and their fight for the crown. The queen is crowned in this one, but not how anyone was planning.
It's always the ending that stops my breathing as I read, the twists, the revelations...I need to breathe! The plot is intense and full of suspense. Whilst it starts off slow, it sure does build into non-stop adventure and plotting.
I absolutely loved the sisterly bond that flourishes between Mirabella and Arsinoe. Katherine is just psychotic! Each character is complex and full of layers that it's so intriguing to pull each layer back as the story unfolds. I need to know more about the mystery that is Katherine!
My only dislike was how the words are written, a bit like a riddle. I had to re-read a few sentences to get what was being said. And seriously Joseph! (view spoiler)[ how Jules reacted and sailed away suddenly leaving Arsinoe, it was like he didn't even die, which was also shocking (hide spoiler)]
There were more humorous communication between the characters, as well as the ever present sizzling romances, court intrigues and conspiracies, and spectacular escapades of kill or be killed.
I am so pumped to see what the next journey entails, but I don't know how I can take more suspense! You've done it again Kendare Blake!...more
This book is pure magic like an ethereal fairytale!
Garber has bewitched me with this lush and vivid story. She takes fairy tales and weaves them into This book is pure magic like an ethereal fairytale!
Garber has bewitched me with this lush and vivid story. She takes fairy tales and weaves them into a dramatically exciting narrative set in an elaborate world. She writes with such skilled and expressive prose
The storyline and characters are compelling with distinct characteristics, both alluring and full of intrigue. Even though I loved this read and the characters, Evangeline just lacked a little something as a protagonist...not sure what though.
Now I'm left with an ending that is sheer agony until I get the next one!
Full of passion and rich magic, this is a stunning series crafted around a magical foundation of what happily ever after truly entails. And whatever you do...never make a deal with a fate!
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...
An enchanting story about mermaids that beautifully blends Italian culture with a fantasy underwater realm.
I found this books wandering through a bookAn enchanting story about mermaids that beautifully blends Italian culture with a fantasy underwater realm.
I found this books wandering through a bookshop and it had bright yellow sale sticker on it that caught my eye, I'm so glad that it did because it introduced me to the wonderful world of Miromara.
There is a strong message about the beauty and importance of marine life, as well as the stark and saddening reminder of the pollution and desecration of marine life which is addressed to readers. I want to be apart of the Wave Warriors now to help save our oceans.
The characters are diverse, bringing forth a blend of different cultures and traditions but as mermaids. Donnelly creates such wholesome friendships that make it a pleasant reading experience about teenage merls . The way the mermaids were depicted were fascinating, the inclusion of clothes, the different habitats and society, had fresh flair to it.
This is fast-paced, fast as a mermaid's tail. The story and the action constantly evolves. I did find the character development of Sera a bit too rushed, as well as the acceptance of the situation. I'm hoping that the next book will pull at the hippokampus's reigns just at bit to slow it down.
An interesting new tale of mermaids that takes the reader down to the oceans depths to discover a mesmerizing new world and a quest to vanquish growing evil by six mermaids....more
4.5 Yes! Terry finally found his rhythm and stride with the witches!! This would have to be my favourite Discworld story so far!
Every flowed so much b4.5 Yes! Terry finally found his rhythm and stride with the witches!! This would have to be my favourite Discworld story so far!
Every flowed so much better and involved an actual story journey with a fantastic array of characters. Terry has written some of the best and most laughable quotes, and there were so many hilarious and entertaining scenes to name but a few; Granny not understanding how the theatre works, Nanny playing eye-spy with a ghost in a dungeon, DEATH tapdancing towards the stage...
Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg are brilliantly funny characters whilst also remaining fierce (that's fierce followed by a click). it's no surprise why Granny is one of the greatest literary witches. Magrat is like my spiritual character, (minus the fact she doesn't like cats!) I loved her! It would be awesome to play her in a live action, she would be so fun to bring to life. I loved how there was this sprinkle of rom-com (British style) added to the fantastical mix, which came out left-field but executed with wonderful cheeky humour.
Terry's whip-like sarcasm is aimed at Shakespeare and literature, delivering it tastefully and yet absurdly funny. The ending was like a joking slap in the face true to Pratchett's style (view spoiler)[we are lead to believe the fool is the king's son but he actually isn't and...too late, he's the king now (hide spoiler)]
There are still long winded metaphors that the story drag but it's not nearly as winded and confusing as per previous books.
The Wyrd Sisters has ignited my hope for the rest of the Discworld novels. I look forward to reading more about this 'wyrd' coven and their future adventures....more
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.
Well that was an adventure in itself in reading! First things first...I FLIPPING LOVE YRENE TOWERS!!!!! SHE IS MY NEW FAVOURTIE CHARACTER!!!!! I LOVE Well that was an adventure in itself in reading! First things first...I FLIPPING LOVE YRENE TOWERS!!!!! SHE IS MY NEW FAVOURTIE CHARACTER!!!!! I LOVE HER, I LOVE HER, I LOVE HER!!!!
This book hit me in the feels regarding characters; did I mention I love Yrene? My dear, sweet Chaol, I either wanted to hit him over the head or give him a big hug, Nesryn just keep being the amazing badass that you are, and hello Sartaq please marry Nesryn, I ship them so damn hard! Chaol and Yrene's chemisty is perfect, and it flows so naturally. The build up was set up at just the right pace so that it didn't feel forced at all.
The plot is filled with adventure, mystery, horror, court intrigue, romance, plot twists, and fantasy of course. My only thing is seriously what is it with fantasy writers and giant fricking spiders!! Why!!?? And just when you think there can be no more plot twists, Maas pulls another few out her hat! (view spoiler)[ I had already guess that it was actually Aelin who wrote the note, but my goodness I did not expect Duva's involvement, and Maeve! (hide spoiler)]
I really enjoyed learning the culture and politics of Antica where this story is set. Its morals and way of life was very interesting and refreshing compared to Adarlan. I loved the whole royal court with their their differing personalities, and how the next Heir comes into being.
The book is important and necessary as part of the story as it gives a lot of background information and a lot of key details that are important to know before the next book, however I did find that it was unnecessarily long to get through, but still worth the read.
Wow…What a wild, fierce, and heart-stopping journey! Vengeance has arrived!
Maas made all of her characters strong and all played such an important rolWow…What a wild, fierce, and heart-stopping journey! Vengeance has arrived!
Maas made all of her characters strong and all played such an important role each within the story and the battle. I thoroughly enjoyed that aspect rather than it all being the MC. But Feyre, darling, oh wow. She is such a raw characters, emotive, strong, vulnerable, fierce, and kind. The fact that Feyre could not stomach being in an actual battle planned war, made me love her even more, she’s strong and not afraid to fight to save the people she loves but going into a calculated battle was too much for her, it gave her such a relatable and respectful depth to her character
There were so many intriguing extracts within the story and the characters. It was great to read the bits where Feyre wanted to paint certain scenes, like snapshots of the story. I found Lucien and Elain’s mateship to be fascinating, as it is not the typical type other have. You want the mates to be together but in this case as much as I do like Lucien (and hope he makes more appearances), Azriel and Elain would have been so sweet together as mates, but I have a feeling that Sarah has something up her wonderfully wicked sleeve that will make us melt for the two.
Tears sprang to my eyes as allies appeared in battle. Maas knows how to write constantly gripping battle scenes. (view spoiler)[All this time I thought it would have been Feyre to kill Hybern, but to my utter astonishment it was Elain! I could not help but smirk deeply as she said those lines to him, as Nesta finished the rest (hide spoiler)]
It’s downside was the repetitive words, and I mean repetitive. There are certain Maas words that get used way too many times. I do feel like this book could have been condensed in ways, especially in the later-beginning and middle stages, rather than drawn out for the sake of drawing it out. But that being said…this book SLAYED me!
I can’t find any adequate words to say just how thrilling and enchanting this series has been. It has utterly captured my heart. All the characters become like family, you become part of The Court of Dreams. Maas has set such high standards in regards to this new world of Fae in books, lighting the way like a firebird....more
So I'm still recovering from the ending...This was a fantastic read and so original! A dark feminist fantasy! I have read a lot of reviews who found tSo I'm still recovering from the ending...This was a fantastic read and so original! A dark feminist fantasy! I have read a lot of reviews who found this boring and long... but I was hooked immediately and whizzed right through it!
I loved the three sisters, I loved the side characters, I loved the history, and the different powers in each kingdom. Each sister is strong in her own way, flawed and powerful, each coming into her own as their tale progresses. In fact all of the characters are stand-outs. The story is dark and complex whilst also being lush and fascinating.
It's a dark fantasy, and it's graphic in parts, but it adds an eerie element to it which makes it all the more intriguing. It resonates as a Gothic fairy tale - hope, magic, darkness, pain, and love etc. There is a nice touch of romance sprinkled throughout which was just enough (especially for my taste). Also the women slay! There is a real theme of power to the matriarchy which is epic!
The story is told in three POV's of the three sisters which I found to be the perfect narration for this book as we really get to feel what they are thinking, feel their emotions, and relate to their trail.
Make sure you're wearing a bullet proof vest when finishing the book because you're about to get shot with a few plot twists that hit hard and never see them coming. Seriously it is so worthwhile! I'm so keen to see what happens next, see more of the world, and to see who will get the crown.
Truthwitch is a fantastically grand fantasy adventure set in a lavish and intricate magical world, infused with a extraordinary powers known as 'WitchTruthwitch is a fantastically grand fantasy adventure set in a lavish and intricate magical world, infused with a extraordinary powers known as 'Witchery'.
The author's brilliant worldbuilding is rich and detailed. At times I found it confusing in the set-up but as the story progressed, everything clicked into place and flowed naturally to weave the land known as The Witchlands. Iseult, a Threadwitch, and Safi, a Truthwitch, were both equal parts strong and flawed, as were Prince Merik, a Tidewitch, and Aeduan, a Bloodwitch, but their friendship and 'Threadsister' bond was beautifully captured, and continued to strengthen and shine all the way. Merik and Safi's relationship practically sizzled on the pages, and Aeduan holds something that makes me intrigue to find out more.
At times my breath was taken away from all the action, suspense, and raw romantic tension. This was an epic fantasy that grabbed my heart. It has a good dose of a unique magic system, a rich world, and relatable characters without being swamped in details or pages of meaningless building along the way.
Dennard has conceived an outstanding story of friendship and magic, amidst a world full of conflict and warring politics.
Jacq.and.the.readstalk
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