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The Isles of the Gods #1
The Isles of the Gods
When Selly's father leaves her high and dry in the port of Kirkpool, she has no intention of riding out the winter on land while he sails to adventure in the north seas. But any plans to follow him are dashed when a handsome stranger with tell-tale magician's marks on his arm boards her ship, presenting her and the crew with a dangerous mission: to cross the Crescent Sea without detection so he can complete a ritual on the sacred Isles of the Gods. What starts as a leisure cruise will lead to acts of treason and sheer terror on the high seas, bringing two countries to the brink of war, two strangers closer than they ever thought possible and stirring two dangerous gods from centuries of slumber...
464 pages, Hardcover
First published May 2, 2023
552 people are currently reading
34762 people want to read
About the author
Amie Kaufman
41 books13.3k followersAmie Kaufman is a New York Times and internationally bestselling author of young adult fiction. Her multi-award winning work is slated for publication in over 30 countries, and is in development for film and TV. Raised in Australia and occasionally Ireland, Amie has degrees in history, literature, law and conflict resolution. She lives in Melbourne with her husband and daughter, their rescue dog, and an extremely large personal library. She is the host of the podcasts Amie Kaufman on Writing, and Pub Dates.
You can sign up for her newsletter to see what she's working on, hear when she releases a new book, and be automatically entered for giveaways: https://amiekaufman.substack.com/
You can sign up for her newsletter to see what she's working on, hear when she releases a new book, and be automatically entered for giveaways: https://amiekaufman.substack.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,318 reviews
March 24, 2023
when i think of AK, i think of sci-fi collaborations. so i was really interested in reading a fantasy story written by just her. and i think this is a success!
the concept of old sleeping gods waking up to start a war is always a winner when it comes to fantasy. i had fun with the majority of the story taking place at sea and thought it was a very fitting atmosphere for both the characters and plot. the characters themselves have a lot of depth to them, the plot is engaging, and the writing is just so lovely and fluid.
the only thing that lessened my reading experience was the slow pacing. this is a pretty decent length novel with multiple POVs and an entire storyline taking place over only 2-3 days, so all that made it feel super slow. so much page time is spent setting the scene, building the world, and developing the characters. and its done really well! but as a plot person, i just prefer more than exposition, especially for a first book in the series.
but if you enjoy character-driven fantasies about warring gods and appreciate AKs storytelling, then look no further! i have a feeling this series is going to be one of her best.
thanks, random house/knopf books, for the ARC!
↠ 4 stars
the concept of old sleeping gods waking up to start a war is always a winner when it comes to fantasy. i had fun with the majority of the story taking place at sea and thought it was a very fitting atmosphere for both the characters and plot. the characters themselves have a lot of depth to them, the plot is engaging, and the writing is just so lovely and fluid.
the only thing that lessened my reading experience was the slow pacing. this is a pretty decent length novel with multiple POVs and an entire storyline taking place over only 2-3 days, so all that made it feel super slow. so much page time is spent setting the scene, building the world, and developing the characters. and its done really well! but as a plot person, i just prefer more than exposition, especially for a first book in the series.
but if you enjoy character-driven fantasies about warring gods and appreciate AKs storytelling, then look no further! i have a feeling this series is going to be one of her best.
thanks, random house/knopf books, for the ARC!
↠ 4 stars
January 11, 2024
there is still a lot i love about YA fantasy — the banter! the fast pace! the creativity! the tropes! — but there are two things i don't like at all.
those things are:
1) what feels like a legal requirement that each one include a halfhearted, at least unnecessary and often unpleasant romance
2) the fact that each character has the ego and chosen one mentality of any given teenager. (we've all been there.)
this, unfortunately, had both. a lot of both.
and not a lot of pirates, which i thought this was about.
bummer.
bottom line: i am not the target audience for this book! but it shows.
(thanks to the publisher for the copy)
those things are:
1) what feels like a legal requirement that each one include a halfhearted, at least unnecessary and often unpleasant romance
2) the fact that each character has the ego and chosen one mentality of any given teenager. (we've all been there.)
this, unfortunately, had both. a lot of both.
and not a lot of pirates, which i thought this was about.
bummer.
bottom line: i am not the target audience for this book! but it shows.
(thanks to the publisher for the copy)
May 27, 2023
Brilliant fantasy/sci-fi author Amy Kaufman, known for creating unforgettable series such as the Illuminae Files and the Aurora Cycle with her writing partner Jay Kristoff, has made a solo return with a promising new action-packed adventure series. The story takes us on a journey to unknown lands as we follow Prince Leander of Alinor, who must make a sacrifice to prevent a dangerous war between two gods, just as King Anselm did five hundred years ago to strengthen his goddess and bind Macean, the God of Risk, the Gambler, in sleep so that he could never make war again. However, Lavender is not the only one whose life depends on this compelling journey that includes crossing the Crescent Sea to the Isle of the Gods.
Young sailor Selly receives a letter from her father that alarms her, and she plans to flee from the ship Lizabetta to risk her chance to climb into another ship that is heading in the direction of where her father's ship is sailing. But instead of heading to the North Seas to reunite with her famous captain father, she finds herself back on the Lisbeth as one of the six crew members, sailing with spoiled, partying, naive Prince Leander, who tries everything in his power to charm her. Keegan is also one of the reluctant passengers who planned to travel to Bibliotek to deepen his research in books. He is not happy to be traveling with his arch-enemy school friend, Leander.
Leander thinks that when they start their journey discreetly in the middle of the night with fewer crew members, he can stay under the radar and hide from the enemies of the kingdom, but he couldn't be more wrong. Laskia, a young woman coming from poverty, is trying to prove her importance to her sister Ruby. She hires a very powerful, intimidating magician, and a bloodthirsty, relentless dungeon fighter, Jude, who is also a betrayed school friend of Leander, to take care of his sick mother. The trio knows the secret trip of the prince, and they are determined to catch him before he makes his sacrifice and kill him.
As two dangerous gods stir after centuries to start the most destructive war, the cruise trip on the high seas turns into something more sinister, including betrayals, backstabbing, more casualties, brutal fights, and in the middle of the chaos, an unexpected romance blooms.
The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, with each of the flawed characters having unique, interesting, and original voices, including determined, risk-taking, and adventurous Selly, who wants to be a big sailor like her father, Leander, who carries the biggest burdens even though he is young and inexperienced but has a good, genuine heart, Keegan, who is extra intelligent, bookish, and finds his reality by burying his head into book pages and researches, Laskia, who is a vengeful power-seeker who slowly loses the thin line between reality and delusions, and finally Jude, who is trapped to be part of a suicide mission when all he wants is to save the life of his mother and suffers from the betrayal of his old friend Leander.
The cliffhanger at the end of the book made me absolutely excited to read the second installment. I hope Amy Kaufman doesn't make us wait too long for the second part of this epic adventure.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's/Knopf Books for Young Readers for sharing this unputdownable book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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Young sailor Selly receives a letter from her father that alarms her, and she plans to flee from the ship Lizabetta to risk her chance to climb into another ship that is heading in the direction of where her father's ship is sailing. But instead of heading to the North Seas to reunite with her famous captain father, she finds herself back on the Lisbeth as one of the six crew members, sailing with spoiled, partying, naive Prince Leander, who tries everything in his power to charm her. Keegan is also one of the reluctant passengers who planned to travel to Bibliotek to deepen his research in books. He is not happy to be traveling with his arch-enemy school friend, Leander.
Leander thinks that when they start their journey discreetly in the middle of the night with fewer crew members, he can stay under the radar and hide from the enemies of the kingdom, but he couldn't be more wrong. Laskia, a young woman coming from poverty, is trying to prove her importance to her sister Ruby. She hires a very powerful, intimidating magician, and a bloodthirsty, relentless dungeon fighter, Jude, who is also a betrayed school friend of Leander, to take care of his sick mother. The trio knows the secret trip of the prince, and they are determined to catch him before he makes his sacrifice and kill him.
As two dangerous gods stir after centuries to start the most destructive war, the cruise trip on the high seas turns into something more sinister, including betrayals, backstabbing, more casualties, brutal fights, and in the middle of the chaos, an unexpected romance blooms.
The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, with each of the flawed characters having unique, interesting, and original voices, including determined, risk-taking, and adventurous Selly, who wants to be a big sailor like her father, Leander, who carries the biggest burdens even though he is young and inexperienced but has a good, genuine heart, Keegan, who is extra intelligent, bookish, and finds his reality by burying his head into book pages and researches, Laskia, who is a vengeful power-seeker who slowly loses the thin line between reality and delusions, and finally Jude, who is trapped to be part of a suicide mission when all he wants is to save the life of his mother and suffers from the betrayal of his old friend Leander.
The cliffhanger at the end of the book made me absolutely excited to read the second installment. I hope Amy Kaufman doesn't make us wait too long for the second part of this epic adventure.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children's/Knopf Books for Young Readers for sharing this unputdownable book's digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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April 20, 2024DNF this is too YA for me
—•
First book of the week 💗
Sorry if I haven’t been very active this week - I was mainly surviving at work!!!
—•
First book of the week 💗
Sorry if I haven’t been very active this week - I was mainly surviving at work!!!
October 16, 2023
Word to the wise: If you're going to have more than 2 POVs in your book, don't write it in the first person. Just don't. Third person is perfectly fine. I promise.
November 10, 2023
Quick Stats
Age Rating: 13+
Over All: 2 stars
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Setting: 3/5
Writing: 3/5
- 1 star because of some weird race stuff and also because of pacing, world building, plot holes, etc.
I’m going start this review by saying that the only reason I requested an ARC of this book was because I was told it would be a future illumicrate pick (my source was incorrect), and because of past controversies surrounding this author’s association with Jay Kristoff*, I wanted to read a copy before I decided whether to pass or not—normally, when an author is controversial I would just pass, but I wanted to give Amie Kaufman a chance, since her controversy is by association.
That said, I was interested in the premise of this book, and I saw many people hyping it up. After reading it, I’m not sure why that is. I think that at its core, this book is average. Reading this made it clear that the real talent behind Illuminae and Aurora Rising are Kristoff.
This book is told in five first person POVs, but the characters are bland and voiceless. I couldn’t tell one character from another while reading. If I skipped over the chapter heading, or set down the book in the middle of a chapter, I had to go back and check which character’s POV it was, because unless they addressed the other characters, it was unclear. I don’t think a single one of our characters had a personality outside of the most basic archetype: the tomboy sailor, the flirty prince, the socially awkward bookworm, the ambitious one, and the one whose just trying to save himself. The characters did, for the most part, have clear motivations (although Keegan and Selly’s weren’t the most convincing). However, that wasn’t enough to make them compelling to read about.
The plot of this book was interesting, but the execution made it fall flat. The stakes were high, but the pacing was off. It dragged for much of the book, except for a couple of chapters near the middle and the very end. Similarly, there were a lot of plot holes. Some came from the plot itself being underdeveloped (I can’t address those without spoiling things), and others came from the fact that the world building was… weird. The magic system is twofold: the spirits and the gods. We get explanation of the gods, but we never get any worldbuilding about the spirits. What are they? Why do they help people? Why are some people magicians and others not? It seems like it’s hereditary, but where did it come from originally? How are the spirits and gods connected? It felt like two different magic systems thrown into one book that don’t make sense together. The worldbuilding and plot were both very weak overall.
The last thing I want to address is the fact that the villain POV character is Black. This is a book written by a white woman. Of the five POV characters 3 are good guys (2 white, one POC), one is a villain (Black), and one is sort of a good guy but working for the bad guy under threat (POC). Mainly it makes me uncomfortable that the villains of the story are two Black girls who are evil because they used to be impoverished, and now that they’re not, they’re so desperate to maintain their power to that they’d commit countless atrocities and mass murder in order to gain more power for themselves. Also found it uncomfortable that the one fully good guy who is a POC specifically describes the villain POV character as being darker skinned than him.
Now, I don’t think this was purposeful racism, but it was weird, and it was uncomfortable, and I wanted to point it out.
Age Rating: 13+
Over All: 2 stars
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Setting: 3/5
Writing: 3/5
- 1 star because of some weird race stuff and also because of pacing, world building, plot holes, etc.
I’m going start this review by saying that the only reason I requested an ARC of this book was because I was told it would be a future illumicrate pick (my source was incorrect), and because of past controversies surrounding this author’s association with Jay Kristoff*, I wanted to read a copy before I decided whether to pass or not—normally, when an author is controversial I would just pass, but I wanted to give Amie Kaufman a chance, since her controversy is by association.
That said, I was interested in the premise of this book, and I saw many people hyping it up. After reading it, I’m not sure why that is. I think that at its core, this book is average. Reading this made it clear that the real talent behind Illuminae and Aurora Rising are Kristoff.
This book is told in five first person POVs, but the characters are bland and voiceless. I couldn’t tell one character from another while reading. If I skipped over the chapter heading, or set down the book in the middle of a chapter, I had to go back and check which character’s POV it was, because unless they addressed the other characters, it was unclear. I don’t think a single one of our characters had a personality outside of the most basic archetype: the tomboy sailor, the flirty prince, the socially awkward bookworm, the ambitious one, and the one whose just trying to save himself. The characters did, for the most part, have clear motivations (although Keegan and Selly’s weren’t the most convincing). However, that wasn’t enough to make them compelling to read about.
The plot of this book was interesting, but the execution made it fall flat. The stakes were high, but the pacing was off. It dragged for much of the book, except for a couple of chapters near the middle and the very end. Similarly, there were a lot of plot holes. Some came from the plot itself being underdeveloped (I can’t address those without spoiling things), and others came from the fact that the world building was… weird. The magic system is twofold: the spirits and the gods. We get explanation of the gods, but we never get any worldbuilding about the spirits. What are they? Why do they help people? Why are some people magicians and others not? It seems like it’s hereditary, but where did it come from originally? How are the spirits and gods connected? It felt like two different magic systems thrown into one book that don’t make sense together. The worldbuilding and plot were both very weak overall.
The last thing I want to address is the fact that the villain POV character is Black. This is a book written by a white woman. Of the five POV characters 3 are good guys (2 white, one POC), one is a villain (Black), and one is sort of a good guy but working for the bad guy under threat (POC). Mainly it makes me uncomfortable that the villains of the story are two Black girls who are evil because they used to be impoverished, and now that they’re not, they’re so desperate to maintain their power to that they’d commit countless atrocities and mass murder in order to gain more power for themselves. Also found it uncomfortable that the one fully good guy who is a POC specifically describes the villain POV character as being darker skinned than him.
Now, I don’t think this was purposeful racism, but it was weird, and it was uncomfortable, and I wanted to point it out.
October 31, 2023
This started really well - old gods waking up to cause trouble, an interesting magic system, some likeable main characters and the promise of lots of fun to come. It slowed down a bit in the middle though, and it was a good thing Leander could make the boat go faster because an ocean voyage in an open boat with only a few apples to eat between three people stretched my imagination! However this is fantasy so anything can happen.
There were too many POVs for me. I hope the audio version makes it clear who is speaking because even with the kindle version I had to keep going back to check. Nevertheless it was a fun read, and Leander in particular was a fantastic character. I will have to read the next book just to see what happens to him.
There were too many POVs for me. I hope the audio version makes it clear who is speaking because even with the kindle version I had to keep going back to check. Nevertheless it was a fun read, and Leander in particular was a fantastic character. I will have to read the next book just to see what happens to him.
September 30, 2023
4.5 ☆
i love a ‘ancient gods being awakened for war’ plot in fantasy, so i had so much fun with this book. the mythology is interesting and there’s plenty of tropes that I love: quests, found family, sailors, multiple POVs and slow burn romance. I would’ve liked more information on the magic and the differences between the magicians, but I was pleasantly surprised by how high the stakes were. there’s moments that were actually intense and I was stressed out. the pacing wasn’t always the best, but that ending definitely got me wanting book 2 right now! 🫣
Main POVs -
↬ Selly - she’s a sailor who has magic but doesn’t know how to properly use it. she’s stubborn, strong willed and so damn funny— I was living for her attitude towards Leander, especially when it eventually lead to those more tender moments.
↬ Leander - a cocky prince who’s a little too careless with his role, but also happens to be one of the strongest magicians. he feels a lot of guilt for his past decisions and his character grew on me a lot in the end.
↬ Keegan - a scholar who has a past with both Leander and Jude, he’s kinda reserved but his intelligence saved the group in so many different situations.
↬ Jude - a fighter who’s just trying to protect his mother, no matter the cost to his own wants and needs. I felt bad for him tbh and I wanted more of his POV.
↬ Laskia - a part of a crime group run by her older sister where she’s desperate to up her rank. she will do ANYTHING to achieve her goals and has no problem sacrificing others along the way.. she’s sort of morally grey, with more emphasis on the evil side lol.
i love a ‘ancient gods being awakened for war’ plot in fantasy, so i had so much fun with this book. the mythology is interesting and there’s plenty of tropes that I love: quests, found family, sailors, multiple POVs and slow burn romance. I would’ve liked more information on the magic and the differences between the magicians, but I was pleasantly surprised by how high the stakes were. there’s moments that were actually intense and I was stressed out. the pacing wasn’t always the best, but that ending definitely got me wanting book 2 right now! 🫣
Main POVs -
↬ Selly - she’s a sailor who has magic but doesn’t know how to properly use it. she’s stubborn, strong willed and so damn funny— I was living for her attitude towards Leander, especially when it eventually lead to those more tender moments.
↬ Leander - a cocky prince who’s a little too careless with his role, but also happens to be one of the strongest magicians. he feels a lot of guilt for his past decisions and his character grew on me a lot in the end.
↬ Keegan - a scholar who has a past with both Leander and Jude, he’s kinda reserved but his intelligence saved the group in so many different situations.
↬ Jude - a fighter who’s just trying to protect his mother, no matter the cost to his own wants and needs. I felt bad for him tbh and I wanted more of his POV.
↬ Laskia - a part of a crime group run by her older sister where she’s desperate to up her rank. she will do ANYTHING to achieve her goals and has no problem sacrificing others along the way.. she’s sort of morally grey, with more emphasis on the evil side lol.
March 16, 2025
I genuinely liked this book, I liked the plot and the world of it!
Buuut
It felt executed wrongly for my taste ☹️, it felt slow and then really rushed at the end! I wanted so much of the world bc I was so invested in it!
The characters were lovable and well built but I felt they were lacking depth? To where I couldn't connect with them enough to actually... Care what happened to them?
I have to say I loved the writing style though, it wasn't confusing and it had lots of emotion into it!
The romance was written pretty well, I definitely wanted more of it but honestly I was fine with what I got out of the book (I'm sure there's more in the sequel!)
I will say that this author wrote villains or antagonists really well! I HATED laskia and that's what made her such a good character! Also idk if hate's the right word bc she had some Juicy female rage to her that I LOOOVED!!
Anyways gonna find a book to fill in before I read sunrise on the reaping 😝😝
Xoxo,
Your girly!!
Buuut
It felt executed wrongly for my taste ☹️, it felt slow and then really rushed at the end! I wanted so much of the world bc I was so invested in it!
The characters were lovable and well built but I felt they were lacking depth? To where I couldn't connect with them enough to actually... Care what happened to them?
I have to say I loved the writing style though, it wasn't confusing and it had lots of emotion into it!
The romance was written pretty well, I definitely wanted more of it but honestly I was fine with what I got out of the book (I'm sure there's more in the sequel!)
I will say that this author wrote villains or antagonists really well! I HATED laskia and that's what made her such a good character! Also idk if hate's the right word bc she had some Juicy female rage to her that I LOOOVED!!
Anyways gonna find a book to fill in before I read sunrise on the reaping 😝😝
Xoxo,
Your girly!!
June 10, 2023
I didn't know what to expect from Isles of the Gods but what I got far exceeding anything I could have thought of. Ive seen this slated as a SOC meets Divine Rivals and its not far from the truth while still being its own thing.
This is an adventurous YA tale full of high seas takeovers, mystery, running from one's past and finding connection in friendship and potentially love. This is a book that sets sail right from the start and the pacing never has a dull moment. The unlikely friendships are wonderful and the heart of the sea and mystery is woven into these pages.
There are 4 different POVs which might seem hard to keep track of at first, but the voices are so distinct, that I honestly didn't have a problem. We even get the POV of the villain which always adds some extra dimension and unhinged energy to the plot.
I fell in love with each character for different reasons and felt like this was a great starting point and I can't wait to see where the next book takes us. This book just came out and i'm already chomping at the bit to get a book 2! Adventure, high stakes, diverse characters and lovely heartfelt connection. One of my favorite YA fantasies of 2023.
This is an adventurous YA tale full of high seas takeovers, mystery, running from one's past and finding connection in friendship and potentially love. This is a book that sets sail right from the start and the pacing never has a dull moment. The unlikely friendships are wonderful and the heart of the sea and mystery is woven into these pages.
There are 4 different POVs which might seem hard to keep track of at first, but the voices are so distinct, that I honestly didn't have a problem. We even get the POV of the villain which always adds some extra dimension and unhinged energy to the plot.
I fell in love with each character for different reasons and felt like this was a great starting point and I can't wait to see where the next book takes us. This book just came out and i'm already chomping at the bit to get a book 2! Adventure, high stakes, diverse characters and lovely heartfelt connection. One of my favorite YA fantasies of 2023.
April 25, 2023
Gorgeously detailed and thoroughly enchanting, the first book in Amie Kaufman’s new epic fantasy series is a masterfully immersive, high stakes adventure story that I can guarantee will have you on the edge of your seats.
Ten years in the making, Kaufman’s character driven solo title follows the seafaring Selly and fun loving Prince, Leander who Selly is duty bound to escort (secretly) to the sacred Isles of The Gods, in order to complete a ritual that will strengthen their realm’s goddess and protect them from a slumbering (and war mongering) enemy God who seeks to destroy them all.
With magic, warring gods and a high octane, life or death adventure for three unlikely (and incredibly reluctant) heroes, The Isles of The Gods is a masterfully written and unforgettable read with lush world building that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I loved the merging of magic with a 1920s style world on the precipice of technological advancement also made for an intriguing exploration into social class and economic tensions and how they (much like the tensions that preceded WW1) can lead to something as destructive as war with only slightest of nudges.
The prose too, was absolutely stunning and I loved how free flowing and easy to read it was, making for some really smooth transitions between each of the alternating POVs (there were five in total) and really conveyed the complexities and nuances of the world without becoming info dumpy.
Selly, Leander and Keegan, our rag-tag trio were all really well written, relatable characters that I felt were full to bursting with nuance and emotional depth that I really enjoyed. We also really get to delve into each character’s insecurities and explore the motivations behind their decisions—which really helped me to understand them a little more, especially when it came to Selly, Leander and Laskia.
Speaking of Laskia (the younger sister of a crime Lord determined to bring back her country’s slumbering god), despite being quite an obvious antagonist I really loved the glimpse into her relationship with her sister and the power imbalance that stops her sister from taking her seriously.
It’s not often I despise and sympathise with a character in equal measure so kudos to Kaufman for making me question my own morals when it came to Laskia and her very poor decision making skills.
The pacing was a little slow to start (particularly in the first 100 pages) but once the action starts, it takes on a fairly swift speed that didn’t let up. And the action was utterly phenomenal, I honestly hadn’t expected it to hit soo hard or be quite as shockingly brutal as it was (though it’s definitely the kind of action you don’t want to tear yourself away from.) I’d also suggest looking up the TWs beforehand just to be on the safe side.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable,YA fantasy that fans of Lynette Noni, swashbuckling adventure and swoon-worthy romances are going to adore.
And Amie, if you’re reading this… it was definitely worth the wait—I absolutely loved it!
Also, a huge thank you to Nina Douglas and Rock The Boat/ Oneworld Publications for the finished copy.
Ten years in the making, Kaufman’s character driven solo title follows the seafaring Selly and fun loving Prince, Leander who Selly is duty bound to escort (secretly) to the sacred Isles of The Gods, in order to complete a ritual that will strengthen their realm’s goddess and protect them from a slumbering (and war mongering) enemy God who seeks to destroy them all.
With magic, warring gods and a high octane, life or death adventure for three unlikely (and incredibly reluctant) heroes, The Isles of The Gods is a masterfully written and unforgettable read with lush world building that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I loved the merging of magic with a 1920s style world on the precipice of technological advancement also made for an intriguing exploration into social class and economic tensions and how they (much like the tensions that preceded WW1) can lead to something as destructive as war with only slightest of nudges.
The prose too, was absolutely stunning and I loved how free flowing and easy to read it was, making for some really smooth transitions between each of the alternating POVs (there were five in total) and really conveyed the complexities and nuances of the world without becoming info dumpy.
Selly, Leander and Keegan, our rag-tag trio were all really well written, relatable characters that I felt were full to bursting with nuance and emotional depth that I really enjoyed. We also really get to delve into each character’s insecurities and explore the motivations behind their decisions—which really helped me to understand them a little more, especially when it came to Selly, Leander and Laskia.
Speaking of Laskia (the younger sister of a crime Lord determined to bring back her country’s slumbering god), despite being quite an obvious antagonist I really loved the glimpse into her relationship with her sister and the power imbalance that stops her sister from taking her seriously.
It’s not often I despise and sympathise with a character in equal measure so kudos to Kaufman for making me question my own morals when it came to Laskia and her very poor decision making skills.
The pacing was a little slow to start (particularly in the first 100 pages) but once the action starts, it takes on a fairly swift speed that didn’t let up. And the action was utterly phenomenal, I honestly hadn’t expected it to hit soo hard or be quite as shockingly brutal as it was (though it’s definitely the kind of action you don’t want to tear yourself away from.) I’d also suggest looking up the TWs beforehand just to be on the safe side.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable,YA fantasy that fans of Lynette Noni, swashbuckling adventure and swoon-worthy romances are going to adore.
And Amie, if you’re reading this… it was definitely worth the wait—I absolutely loved it!
Also, a huge thank you to Nina Douglas and Rock The Boat/ Oneworld Publications for the finished copy.
June 12, 2023
A seafaring adventure with slumbering gods and royal intrigue is pretty much an instant add to the TBR for me, and I was so excited to read this book. But sadly—as most of us already know—the greater the excitement often means the greater the crash and subsequent burn when a novel fails to meet our hopes and expectations.
I guess I was really disappointed in how cookie cutter The Isles of the Gods felt. The characters are not anything particularly special. They were pretty much just your standard YA character crew. Selly and Leander’s banter was entertaining at times and there were some scenes I thought were well done, but I was also disappointed with the antagonist’s arc and plot line. Again, it just felt very stereotypical—the basic villain motives with no real substance or intrigue to supplement it. Everyone felt very predictable and flat to me.
The writing was also a huge let down. The Other Side of the Sky duology, co-written by Kaufman, has amazing fantasy imagery and world-building, which is why I was surprised to find that this book did not have either of those things. The descriptions were vague and unspecific when the setting could easily have been developed more, and the prose felt quite juvenile and repetitive at times. The world-building also had one of my least favorite combinations possible: the meshing of modern and old technology with no clear delineations for either. The world had autos and sleek yachts, but people still sail ships. I understand that this is fiction and anything is possible, but I personally do not like this kind of mix-and-match world-building.
I’m not sure if I’ll be continuing this series in the future when its subsequent installments are released, because with so many books and so little time, one is forced to choose their reads carefully. Despite this, I think The Isles of the Gods can still be a fun adventure story if you’re looking for a quintessential, predictable YA fantasy novel.
➳ 2.5 stars
CONTENT WARNINGS:
Language: A—s used once.
Violence: Mentions of war; assassination attempts; ships are shot with cannons and lit on fire; mass poisoning; mass casualty events; character tries to shoot other characters with a gun; blood.
Alcohol/Addictive Substances: Characters drink champagne.
Sexual content: Characters kiss once.
Trigger Warnings: Blood, death.
I guess I was really disappointed in how cookie cutter The Isles of the Gods felt. The characters are not anything particularly special. They were pretty much just your standard YA character crew. Selly and Leander’s banter was entertaining at times and there were some scenes I thought were well done, but I was also disappointed with the antagonist’s arc and plot line. Again, it just felt very stereotypical—the basic villain motives with no real substance or intrigue to supplement it. Everyone felt very predictable and flat to me.
The writing was also a huge let down. The Other Side of the Sky duology, co-written by Kaufman, has amazing fantasy imagery and world-building, which is why I was surprised to find that this book did not have either of those things. The descriptions were vague and unspecific when the setting could easily have been developed more, and the prose felt quite juvenile and repetitive at times. The world-building also had one of my least favorite combinations possible: the meshing of modern and old technology with no clear delineations for either. The world had autos and sleek yachts, but people still sail ships. I understand that this is fiction and anything is possible, but I personally do not like this kind of mix-and-match world-building.
I’m not sure if I’ll be continuing this series in the future when its subsequent installments are released, because with so many books and so little time, one is forced to choose their reads carefully. Despite this, I think The Isles of the Gods can still be a fun adventure story if you’re looking for a quintessential, predictable YA fantasy novel.
➳ 2.5 stars
CONTENT WARNINGS:
Language: A—s used once.
Violence: Mentions of war; assassination attempts; ships are shot with cannons and lit on fire; mass poisoning; mass casualty events; character tries to shoot other characters with a gun; blood.
Alcohol/Addictive Substances: Characters drink champagne.
Sexual content: Characters kiss once.
Trigger Warnings: Blood, death.
May 21, 2024
Wow, j'ai kiffé. L'univers est très riche et vraiment immersif et l'intrigue m'a happée dès le début. Elle prend de l'ampleur au fil des pages et les enjeux sont de taille, ce qui fait que je n'ai pas pu décrocher du roman. Objectivement, il y a un schéma un peu répétitif dans l'intrigue, on avance, hop un obstacle, mais on avance mais oh, un obstacle... et c'est assez classique mais ça m'a donné une impression d'assez peu naturel si je peux dire. MAIS ça n'a, comme je le disais, pas réussi à me freiner, d'autant plus que j'ai adoré les personnages qui sont aussi bien construits et différents qu'ils sont attachants. On a encore beaucoup de choses à apprendre sur eux et beaucoup d'évolutions à amener à leurs relations alors j'ai vraiment hâte de voir ce qui va se passer par la suite !
November 10, 2024
Niestety infantylność dwójki głównych bohaterów mnie pokonanała.
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[ współpraca reklamowa @mlodybook ]
“Wyspy bogów” Amie Kaufman to pierwszy tom młodzieżowej serii fantasy, której akcja w dużej mierze dzieje się na morzu. Selly próbuje wrócić do ojca, który zostawił ją na jednym ze swoich statków, aby zgłębiała tajniki morskiej żeglugi. Jej plany zostają jednak pokrzyżowane przez księcia, który musi udać się z tajemniczą pielgrzymką, aby ustrzec królestwo od zagłady.
Bardzo lubię książki o piratach czy wszelkie te, dziejące się na morzu. Tutaj również był to element, który najbardziej mi się podobał. Widać, że autorka miała ciekawy pomysł na świat i jego magię, a do tego tempo akcji sprawiało, że przez książkę się wprost płynęło.
Niestety okazało się, że nie jestem grupą docelową dla tej powieści, bo książka zupełnie mnie nie zaangażowała. Przede wszystkim przeszkadzała mi, widoczna w każdym dialogu, infantylność głównej bohaterki. Doszedł do tego również przewidywalny i schematyczny wątek romantyczny. Niestety nie zapałałam sympatią do żadnej z postaci i trudno było mi się przejmować ich losem.
Powieść pisana jest z wielu perspektyw, co ciekawe nie tylko protagonistów, lecz także antagonistów. Myślę, że był to bardzo interesujący zabieg, który z pewnością pogłębiał zrozumienie kreowanego przez autorkę społeczeństwa. Niestety niektóre z tych punktów widzenia w moim odczuciu były zupełnie niepotrzebne i nie wnosiły wiele do fabuły.
Myślę jednak, że może być to dobra pozycja dla nieco młodszego czytelnika, który dopiero rozpoczyna swoją przygodę z fantastyką, a za dzieciaka zawsze marzył o tym, żeby zostać piratem.
———————————————
[ współpraca reklamowa @mlodybook ]
“Wyspy bogów” Amie Kaufman to pierwszy tom młodzieżowej serii fantasy, której akcja w dużej mierze dzieje się na morzu. Selly próbuje wrócić do ojca, który zostawił ją na jednym ze swoich statków, aby zgłębiała tajniki morskiej żeglugi. Jej plany zostają jednak pokrzyżowane przez księcia, który musi udać się z tajemniczą pielgrzymką, aby ustrzec królestwo od zagłady.
Bardzo lubię książki o piratach czy wszelkie te, dziejące się na morzu. Tutaj również był to element, który najbardziej mi się podobał. Widać, że autorka miała ciekawy pomysł na świat i jego magię, a do tego tempo akcji sprawiało, że przez książkę się wprost płynęło.
Niestety okazało się, że nie jestem grupą docelową dla tej powieści, bo książka zupełnie mnie nie zaangażowała. Przede wszystkim przeszkadzała mi, widoczna w każdym dialogu, infantylność głównej bohaterki. Doszedł do tego również przewidywalny i schematyczny wątek romantyczny. Niestety nie zapałałam sympatią do żadnej z postaci i trudno było mi się przejmować ich losem.
Powieść pisana jest z wielu perspektyw, co ciekawe nie tylko protagonistów, lecz także antagonistów. Myślę, że był to bardzo interesujący zabieg, który z pewnością pogłębiał zrozumienie kreowanego przez autorkę społeczeństwa. Niestety niektóre z tych punktów widzenia w moim odczuciu były zupełnie niepotrzebne i nie wnosiły wiele do fabuły.
Myślę jednak, że może być to dobra pozycja dla nieco młodszego czytelnika, który dopiero rozpoczyna swoją przygodę z fantastyką, a za dzieciaka zawsze marzył o tym, żeby zostać piratem.
November 27, 2023
This had all the signs of being a really good book but it kinda fell flat to me. I wanted more from this book but I sadly had to punch my way through the slow pacing and the flood of same-y characters.
I really liked the premise of this book and I will say, the setting on the sea was *chefs kiss* - someone find me more pirate books, please.
I liked some of the characters but the issue I had was that they all read the same. To be honest, Jude’s point of view was completely just there for filler and didn’t add anything to the story. I really didn’t think the multiple perspectives worked for this story at all.
I wanted more romance and/or emotional connections. I don’t necessarily think a good fantasy needs a romance but there needs to be some emotional tether for me to actually care about the stakes or the characters and it felt like this was missing for me.
I hated the pacing of this book. This is really what stopped my enjoyment for it and brought the book down a lot.
Overall, something I wouldn’t pick up again or recommend but could see it appealing to new fantasy readers.
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the premise of this book and I will say, the setting on the sea was *chefs kiss* - someone find me more pirate books, please.
I liked some of the characters but the issue I had was that they all read the same. To be honest, Jude’s point of view was completely just there for filler and didn’t add anything to the story. I really didn’t think the multiple perspectives worked for this story at all.
I wanted more romance and/or emotional connections. I don’t necessarily think a good fantasy needs a romance but there needs to be some emotional tether for me to actually care about the stakes or the characters and it felt like this was missing for me.
I hated the pacing of this book. This is really what stopped my enjoyment for it and brought the book down a lot.
Overall, something I wouldn’t pick up again or recommend but could see it appealing to new fantasy readers.
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2023
Bei dem Cover konnte ich nicht widerstehen🤩
Vieles an dem Buch hat mich an Fluch der Karibik und insgesamt an Piratengeschichten erinnert und das hat mir sehr gefallen. Außerdem wurde in dem Buch gegendert, was ich richtig gut fand. Das Worldbuilding war leider etwas monoton, allerdings spielte das Buch zur einen Hälfte auf See. Da hätte man zwar trotzdem bisschen mehr machen können, aber gut.
Der Mittelteil war mir zu langatmig und hier hat mich die Story dann auch verloren. Die Gedanken der Charaktere wiederholten sich zu oft und drehten sich im Kreis. Die Liebesgeschichte hat mich auch nicht so richtig erreicht.
Zum Ende hin wurde es dann zwar noch mal spannend, aber leider konnte mich das dann auch nicht mehr so ganz abholen. Insgesamt fehlte mir Action in der Story🫤 Schade.
Vieles an dem Buch hat mich an Fluch der Karibik und insgesamt an Piratengeschichten erinnert und das hat mir sehr gefallen. Außerdem wurde in dem Buch gegendert, was ich richtig gut fand. Das Worldbuilding war leider etwas monoton, allerdings spielte das Buch zur einen Hälfte auf See. Da hätte man zwar trotzdem bisschen mehr machen können, aber gut.
Der Mittelteil war mir zu langatmig und hier hat mich die Story dann auch verloren. Die Gedanken der Charaktere wiederholten sich zu oft und drehten sich im Kreis. Die Liebesgeschichte hat mich auch nicht so richtig erreicht.
Zum Ende hin wurde es dann zwar noch mal spannend, aber leider konnte mich das dann auch nicht mehr so ganz abholen. Insgesamt fehlte mir Action in der Story🫤 Schade.
December 11, 2023
Amie Kaufman's debut in the epic fantasy series "The Isles of The Gods" is a beautifully crafted and captivating novel.
The story follows Selly, Leander, and Keegan. All three are compelling and relatable characters, each is rich with depth and emotion. With rich world-building and skillful character development, Kaufman weaves magic into a 1920s-style world, exploring social tensions and motivations. The alternating points of view flow seamlessly, leading to thrilling action scenes that leave a lasting impression.
"The Isles of The Gods" is a must-read for fans of a good YA fantasy. Kaufman never stops to amaze me!
The story follows Selly, Leander, and Keegan. All three are compelling and relatable characters, each is rich with depth and emotion. With rich world-building and skillful character development, Kaufman weaves magic into a 1920s-style world, exploring social tensions and motivations. The alternating points of view flow seamlessly, leading to thrilling action scenes that leave a lasting impression.
"The Isles of The Gods" is a must-read for fans of a good YA fantasy. Kaufman never stops to amaze me!
May 22, 2023
What in the wattpad was this..?
July 2, 2023
Sweet sparkling pandas, this was amazing. Don't let the amount of time it took me to read this reflect on the story, because it was 100% me not being in the mood for YA.
I should have known Amie would deliver.
I loved these characters. They're lost and ruthless and charming and smart and loyal and a million other things. I'm not usually good with multi-POV, but this one had me craving more of everyone.
Plot wise, it was intriguing. A history of gods, a future of war, and an in between of 6 people looking to fight, but for different reasons.
Overall, this story was light and fun while still dark and serious. I loved every page, every situation, and the ending is absolutely bonkers insane. I can't wait to read what's next.
**Huge thanks to Amie and the publisher for spoiling me with an early copy**
I should have known Amie would deliver.
I loved these characters. They're lost and ruthless and charming and smart and loyal and a million other things. I'm not usually good with multi-POV, but this one had me craving more of everyone.
Plot wise, it was intriguing. A history of gods, a future of war, and an in between of 6 people looking to fight, but for different reasons.
Overall, this story was light and fun while still dark and serious. I loved every page, every situation, and the ending is absolutely bonkers insane. I can't wait to read what's next.
**Huge thanks to Amie and the publisher for spoiling me with an early copy**
November 12, 2024
It’s like Fable meets gods and lore. This story is about kingdoms divided by their beliefs in their individual gods - long gone from the world, but still able to impact it. There are 5 POVs in this book - Selly, Leander, Keegan, Jude and Laskia. Selly is the daughter of a skilled sailor, raised at sea on a crew, all she wants is to step up to her place and have her own ship. Leander is the charming frivolous prince on a mission to make a sacrifice to the alter of their god, as his family has done every 25 years. Keegan is a scholar on the run from an arranged marriage who gets pulled into an unexpected adventure. The three cross paths and are pulled into the same mission - to strengthen their god with the sacrifice and avoid war and instability in their world. Jude is the morally grey henchman stuck in an impossible situation. Laskia is the villain out to make a name for herself no matter the cost. Trying to prove she too can step up and be someone - by causing a war that profits her. I’m kind of conflicted on this one - on one hand, beautifully written, creative storyline, great characters with depth. On the other hand, too many POVs and I’m not sure the storyline really kept me engaged the whole time, I’m not sure if I would read the next book - but I’m on the fence
April 17, 2023
I had high expectations for this book, and it went beyond those plus another billion high. This is my new favorite ya series right now! I have not been so invested in a ya fantasy in a while, and this had me heart and soul. Very character driven, plot driven also. But these characters, Selly, Leander, and Keegan, feel like my new best book friends.
A sentinel goddess that requires a sacrifice, a slumbering god that needs to awaken. These are the two sides of a war that seem hellbent on coming. Leander is a prince who is journeying to make a sacrifice to his kingdom's goddess, unknowingly entering dangerous waters on Selly's ship. Keegan, a scholar, is also aboard, unwittingly being dragged into the middle of history in the making.
What they don't know is that the country across from them has been paying attention. Particularly Laskia, dying to prove that she is better and worth more than her infamous sister.
I cried 5 times reading this, and I really never cry in books. This author had me instantly feeling attached to these characters and their emotions, so yeah... some tearjerker moments had me.
Out May 2, 2023!
A sentinel goddess that requires a sacrifice, a slumbering god that needs to awaken. These are the two sides of a war that seem hellbent on coming. Leander is a prince who is journeying to make a sacrifice to his kingdom's goddess, unknowingly entering dangerous waters on Selly's ship. Keegan, a scholar, is also aboard, unwittingly being dragged into the middle of history in the making.
What they don't know is that the country across from them has been paying attention. Particularly Laskia, dying to prove that she is better and worth more than her infamous sister.
I cried 5 times reading this, and I really never cry in books. This author had me instantly feeling attached to these characters and their emotions, so yeah... some tearjerker moments had me.
Out May 2, 2023!
September 12, 2024
Estuvo bien, fue un YA divertido con varios povs (puntos de vista) y personajes diversos para volver la historia más dinámica. En esencia, creo que cumplió y el mundo con su trama es interesante, pero no mucho más, me parece que es un libro olvidable.
Selly lleva un año sin ver a su padre y hará lo necesario para encontrarse con él, por desgracia, cuando el barco en el que está requiera la ayuda de la realeza, no podrá negarse. Leander es el hermano menor de la reina, su único trabajo es hacer un sacrificio para mantener dormido a un dios, pero va un año tarde. Jude está trabajando para unos delincuentes para poder conseguir dinero para cuidar a su madre enferma después de que Leander lo traicionara. Laskia es la hermana menor de Ruby que está decidida en probar que puede ser útil con una fe ciega en el dios dormido. Keegan solo sueña con irse a la biblioteca a estudiar aunque eso implique dejar toda su vida atrás, pero cuando el barco que tomó deba irse en una misión, su sueño se verá lejano.
Voy a partir diciendo que no me esperaba tantos puntos de vista, pues la sinopsis solo hablaba de Selly y de Leander, así que me sorprendió encontrarme otros tres puntos de vista distintos. Admito que por momentos sentí que era demasiado porque me interesaba más el hilo de Selly, pero es cierto que le aportó cierto dinamismo y con dos povs en los "malos" hizo que tuviéramos una vista más completa de la historia.
La historia de Selly era una bien conocida, una chica que se crió en barcos, que esa era su vida y se vio lanzada de golpe en una carrera contrarreloj para mantener dormido a peligroso dios. Me recordó un poco a Fable porque era una chica acostumbrada a trabajar, a la vida en un barco, con instinto de supervivencia y astucia para salir adelante. Estaba bien, solo que un personaje que he leído antes. Su arco no sentí que quedara tan claro, pues supuestamente aprendió a no ser tan egoísta y verse como parte de un todo, pero no terminó de convencerme.
Leander era el príncipe carismático que era capaz de salvarse de los problemas solo con una sonrisa. Era el arquetipo de personaje que siempre funciona conmigo y lo hizo gran parte del libro, era divertido y me gustó cómo se llevaba con Selly. Además, era claro que tenía varias cosas ocultas y cierta vulnerabilidad que me hubiera gustado ver más. Quizá mi problema fue el enamoramiento casi instantáneo por Selly que no fue tan divertido como pudo haber sido.
Jude me pareció bien, era un amigo del príncipe que venía de una situación diferente, por lo que no se sentía al mismo nivel y la enfermedad de su madre. Era un personaje que hacía lo que hacía por su madre, a pesar de que sabía que no era correcto, pero fuera de eso no supe mucho más de su personaje o de lo que quería o era. Con Keegan me pasó algo similar, sabíamos que quería ser un erudito y que tenía un fuerte sentido de lo que era correcto, solo eso. Laskia fue un poco más interesante por el tema de que quería probar ser digna hermana menor de Ruby (una famosa criminal) y por sus fuertes creencias religiosas, a pesar de que varias veces pudimos ver que no estaba feliz con lo que había hecho y de que le pesaba.
La historia en sí era sencilla, pues debían llevar a Leander a las Islas de los Dioses para que hiciera su sacrificio mientras Laskia y los suyos intentaban impedírselo para comenzar una guerra, con todos los problemas e impedimentos que encontraron en el camino. Ahora que lo pienso en retrospectiva, siento que el libro era demasiado largo para que todo lo que pasara fuera solo ese viaje.
Las Islas de los Dioses es un inicio de un YA de fantasía con varios protagonistas cuyas historias se ven entremezcladas en medio de una batalla entre dioses. Un libro divertido y que se lee rápido, pero que tampoco aporta algo novedoso más allá del mundo que recién estamos empezando a conocer.
Selly lleva un año sin ver a su padre y hará lo necesario para encontrarse con él, por desgracia, cuando el barco en el que está requiera la ayuda de la realeza, no podrá negarse. Leander es el hermano menor de la reina, su único trabajo es hacer un sacrificio para mantener dormido a un dios, pero va un año tarde. Jude está trabajando para unos delincuentes para poder conseguir dinero para cuidar a su madre enferma después de que Leander lo traicionara. Laskia es la hermana menor de Ruby que está decidida en probar que puede ser útil con una fe ciega en el dios dormido. Keegan solo sueña con irse a la biblioteca a estudiar aunque eso implique dejar toda su vida atrás, pero cuando el barco que tomó deba irse en una misión, su sueño se verá lejano.
"Todo el mundo cuenta diferentes versiones de la misma historia (...). Y la única versión en la que somos los héroes es en la nuestra".
Voy a partir diciendo que no me esperaba tantos puntos de vista, pues la sinopsis solo hablaba de Selly y de Leander, así que me sorprendió encontrarme otros tres puntos de vista distintos. Admito que por momentos sentí que era demasiado porque me interesaba más el hilo de Selly, pero es cierto que le aportó cierto dinamismo y con dos povs en los "malos" hizo que tuviéramos una vista más completa de la historia.
La historia de Selly era una bien conocida, una chica que se crió en barcos, que esa era su vida y se vio lanzada de golpe en una carrera contrarreloj para mantener dormido a peligroso dios. Me recordó un poco a Fable porque era una chica acostumbrada a trabajar, a la vida en un barco, con instinto de supervivencia y astucia para salir adelante. Estaba bien, solo que un personaje que he leído antes. Su arco no sentí que quedara tan claro, pues supuestamente aprendió a no ser tan egoísta y verse como parte de un todo, pero no terminó de convencerme.
"Hay una parte en mí que todavía tiene esperanzas. Ese resquicio de fe vive en todos nosotros, por eso luchamos".
Leander era el príncipe carismático que era capaz de salvarse de los problemas solo con una sonrisa. Era el arquetipo de personaje que siempre funciona conmigo y lo hizo gran parte del libro, era divertido y me gustó cómo se llevaba con Selly. Además, era claro que tenía varias cosas ocultas y cierta vulnerabilidad que me hubiera gustado ver más. Quizá mi problema fue el enamoramiento casi instantáneo por Selly que no fue tan divertido como pudo haber sido.
Jude me pareció bien, era un amigo del príncipe que venía de una situación diferente, por lo que no se sentía al mismo nivel y la enfermedad de su madre. Era un personaje que hacía lo que hacía por su madre, a pesar de que sabía que no era correcto, pero fuera de eso no supe mucho más de su personaje o de lo que quería o era. Con Keegan me pasó algo similar, sabíamos que quería ser un erudito y que tenía un fuerte sentido de lo que era correcto, solo eso. Laskia fue un poco más interesante por el tema de que quería probar ser digna hermana menor de Ruby (una famosa criminal) y por sus fuertes creencias religiosas, a pesar de que varias veces pudimos ver que no estaba feliz con lo que había hecho y de que le pesaba.
"No soy más que una parte de algo mucho más grande, y no existe debilidad alguna en ello. Solo fuerza".
La historia en sí era sencilla, pues debían llevar a Leander a las Islas de los Dioses para que hiciera su sacrificio mientras Laskia y los suyos intentaban impedírselo para comenzar una guerra, con todos los problemas e impedimentos que encontraron en el camino. Ahora que lo pienso en retrospectiva, siento que el libro era demasiado largo para que todo lo que pasara fuera solo ese viaje.
Las Islas de los Dioses es un inicio de un YA de fantasía con varios protagonistas cuyas historias se ven entremezcladas en medio de una batalla entre dioses. Un libro divertido y que se lee rápido, pero que tampoco aporta algo novedoso más allá del mundo que recién estamos empezando a conocer.
December 7, 2023
Nejdřív to vypadalo bledě, ale pak jsem to dočetla za dvě hodiny. 😂
4/5*
4/5*
February 11, 2024
Selly ist an Bord der Kleinen Lizabetta nur ein Schiffsmädchen, aber sie träumt davon, bald selbst Kapitänin eines Schiffs zu werden – wenn sie doch nur endlich ihren Vater wiedersehen würde, denn er ist Besitzer einer großen Handelsflotte, allerdings ist er immer auf der Suche nach neuen Geschäften und hat keine Zeit für Selly. Bis es soweit ist, wird Selly als Schiffsmädchen eher schlecht behandelt und kann nur von ihren großen Plänen träumen.
Die Kleine Lizabetta ist eigentlich ein Handelsschiff, aber wenn gut bezahlt wird, werden auch Passagiere aufgenommen. Einer dieser Passagiere ist Prinz Leander, der seinen Teil einer wichtigen Tradition der königlichen Familie erfüllen muss, damit ein grausamer Gott in seiner Gefangenschaft bleibt. Eigentlich hat er als Prinz keine besonderen Pflichten, doch nun muss er sich seinen Verantwortungen stellen und die Partys kurz ruhen lassen. Seine Reise zu den Inseln der Götter ist aber viel gefährlicher als erwartet.
Denn es gibt Leute, die den gefangenen Gott befreien möchten und dafür wollen sie Leander aufhalten – mit allen Mitteln. Laskias Schwester Ruby gehört zu den Anführerinnen und Laskia ist entschlossen, sich um jeden Preis als würdig zu erweisen. Allerdings hat sie oft das Gefühl, nicht ernstgenommen zu werden und überspielt ihre Unsicherheiten mit besonders viel Brutalität.
Die Gefahren ihres ungeplanten Abenteuers sorgen für unerwartete Bündnisse: Selly fand den Prinzen oberflächlich und viel zu charmant, aber dann ist sie doch entschlossen, ihn bei seiner Reise zu unterstützen. Außerdem ist sie auch widerwillig beeindruckt von Leanders Magie, da sie selbst zwar die Anzeichen einer Magierin trägt, aber gar keinen Zugang zu ihrer Magie hat, was ihr auch Komplexe bereitet.
Ich fand es auf jeden Fall schön, wie sich die Charaktere während ihrer Reise weiterentwickeln. Außerdem gefiel mir die Magie und der Einfluss der Götter, wobei ich gern noch mehr davon gesehen hätte. Ich mochte auch die Rolle der Götter im Alltag der Menschen: Manche zweifeln an ihrer Existenz, weil sie kaum präsent sind, für viele ist es nicht mehr als Glaube. Dann gibt es Fanatiker, die für ihre Überzeugungen über Leichen gehen und jene, die ihre Traditionen bewahren.
Fazit
Insgesamt mochte ich die Protagonisten und ihre Entwicklungen, das spannende Abenteuer und auch die ersten Einblicke in die Magie und die Welt der Götter. Ich bin gespannt, wie es weitergeht!
Die Kleine Lizabetta ist eigentlich ein Handelsschiff, aber wenn gut bezahlt wird, werden auch Passagiere aufgenommen. Einer dieser Passagiere ist Prinz Leander, der seinen Teil einer wichtigen Tradition der königlichen Familie erfüllen muss, damit ein grausamer Gott in seiner Gefangenschaft bleibt. Eigentlich hat er als Prinz keine besonderen Pflichten, doch nun muss er sich seinen Verantwortungen stellen und die Partys kurz ruhen lassen. Seine Reise zu den Inseln der Götter ist aber viel gefährlicher als erwartet.
Denn es gibt Leute, die den gefangenen Gott befreien möchten und dafür wollen sie Leander aufhalten – mit allen Mitteln. Laskias Schwester Ruby gehört zu den Anführerinnen und Laskia ist entschlossen, sich um jeden Preis als würdig zu erweisen. Allerdings hat sie oft das Gefühl, nicht ernstgenommen zu werden und überspielt ihre Unsicherheiten mit besonders viel Brutalität.
Die Gefahren ihres ungeplanten Abenteuers sorgen für unerwartete Bündnisse: Selly fand den Prinzen oberflächlich und viel zu charmant, aber dann ist sie doch entschlossen, ihn bei seiner Reise zu unterstützen. Außerdem ist sie auch widerwillig beeindruckt von Leanders Magie, da sie selbst zwar die Anzeichen einer Magierin trägt, aber gar keinen Zugang zu ihrer Magie hat, was ihr auch Komplexe bereitet.
Ich fand es auf jeden Fall schön, wie sich die Charaktere während ihrer Reise weiterentwickeln. Außerdem gefiel mir die Magie und der Einfluss der Götter, wobei ich gern noch mehr davon gesehen hätte. Ich mochte auch die Rolle der Götter im Alltag der Menschen: Manche zweifeln an ihrer Existenz, weil sie kaum präsent sind, für viele ist es nicht mehr als Glaube. Dann gibt es Fanatiker, die für ihre Überzeugungen über Leichen gehen und jene, die ihre Traditionen bewahren.
Fazit
Insgesamt mochte ich die Protagonisten und ihre Entwicklungen, das spannende Abenteuer und auch die ersten Einblicke in die Magie und die Welt der Götter. Ich bin gespannt, wie es weitergeht!
November 17, 2023
If there‘s something I love, but don‘t read enough of, it‘s adventures taking place on the sea. Gimme pirates or sailors. Gimme storms and bad weather that make travelling hard. Gimme not enough space so people might consider sharing bunk beds. Gimme danger. Gimme women in pants that smell more of salt than perfume. Gimme getting drunk when being in a port city. Gimme all of that. See? It‘s fun. And this is why I absolutely should pick up more of them. And this is why I was excited to pick up Amie Kaufman‘s The Isles of the Gods. Not only because of the premise of the story, but also because this is Amie‘s first solo YA book. And having known and loved the YA books she wrote as an co-author, I had higher hopes for this one.
Now did The Isles of the Gods give me everything I was looking for?
Yes and No. But it‘s because it ended up being a completely different story, and instead gave me fun worldbuilding with a complex history involving politics and gods (and oh, how much I love a pantheon of messy gods), great locations with a city reminiscent of New York in the 20s (and don‘t we love those vibes? Just the vibes. Not the actual historical city), a magic system that involves tattoos, and spirits, and elements (and I‘m a sucker for all of that), and multiple POVs with characters that have so many layers, it was so much fun following them through their journey!
The Isles of the Gods is definitely a fun YA adventure that keeps up the pace as we follow Selly, Leander, and Keegan who end up in need of each other to be able to prevent a war, while we also follow Laskia, who‘s pretty much the villain of the story, and Jude, who‘s found himself in a place he himself may not fully be able to navigate. Having five POVs with characters on both sides of the conflict was probably what I enjoyed most, the setting put aside. It really showed the different layers to the plot and characters, and made the whole goal of preventing a war between two gods a more complex affair than one might think it to be.
I whole-heartedly enjoyed the setting and the characters, and can only recommend this book to anyone who loves stories set on the sea, multiple POVs, a quicker paced plot, and a worldbuilding involving gods and magic. However, I must add to it that the romance should not be the reason to pick up this book, no matter how heavily it is mentioned in blurbs. While yes, the set up of Selly and Leander‘s relationship is fun from the get-go, and yes, their journey might sound delicious (from her being completely annoyed by his princely presence and him intrigued by her ignorance of his status to them being completely smitten by each other), the pacing of their relationship felt too quick for my own personal taste. They reach the „I can‘t imagne a life without the other person“ stage too soon, and while I absolutely think these two are a match, I would have loved if some things have been differently explored between the two of them. But, that put aside, I don‘t think the romance is the main concern of this novel, and there‘s still a lot to tackle in the second book of this duology so who knows what these two will have to face? In the meantime, all I can say is that I absolutely enjoyed the adventure in it. Even if it might have been somewhat predictable, it still fulfilled what it promised: a good time.
I will definitely pick up the sequel once it comes out, because a) I need to see Keegan at the Bibliotek (he‘s all of us readers), and b) I can‘t wait to see what happens once the gods come into action (I‘m just too much of a sucker for those type of stories) and c) with where things left off, I‘m excited to see what a rollercoaster of an adventure the sequel will be.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Now did The Isles of the Gods give me everything I was looking for?
Yes and No. But it‘s because it ended up being a completely different story, and instead gave me fun worldbuilding with a complex history involving politics and gods (and oh, how much I love a pantheon of messy gods), great locations with a city reminiscent of New York in the 20s (and don‘t we love those vibes? Just the vibes. Not the actual historical city), a magic system that involves tattoos, and spirits, and elements (and I‘m a sucker for all of that), and multiple POVs with characters that have so many layers, it was so much fun following them through their journey!
The Isles of the Gods is definitely a fun YA adventure that keeps up the pace as we follow Selly, Leander, and Keegan who end up in need of each other to be able to prevent a war, while we also follow Laskia, who‘s pretty much the villain of the story, and Jude, who‘s found himself in a place he himself may not fully be able to navigate. Having five POVs with characters on both sides of the conflict was probably what I enjoyed most, the setting put aside. It really showed the different layers to the plot and characters, and made the whole goal of preventing a war between two gods a more complex affair than one might think it to be.
I whole-heartedly enjoyed the setting and the characters, and can only recommend this book to anyone who loves stories set on the sea, multiple POVs, a quicker paced plot, and a worldbuilding involving gods and magic. However, I must add to it that the romance should not be the reason to pick up this book, no matter how heavily it is mentioned in blurbs. While yes, the set up of Selly and Leander‘s relationship is fun from the get-go, and yes, their journey might sound delicious (from her being completely annoyed by his princely presence and him intrigued by her ignorance of his status to them being completely smitten by each other), the pacing of their relationship felt too quick for my own personal taste. They reach the „I can‘t imagne a life without the other person“ stage too soon, and while I absolutely think these two are a match, I would have loved if some things have been differently explored between the two of them. But, that put aside, I don‘t think the romance is the main concern of this novel, and there‘s still a lot to tackle in the second book of this duology so who knows what these two will have to face? In the meantime, all I can say is that I absolutely enjoyed the adventure in it. Even if it might have been somewhat predictable, it still fulfilled what it promised: a good time.
I will definitely pick up the sequel once it comes out, because a) I need to see Keegan at the Bibliotek (he‘s all of us readers), and b) I can‘t wait to see what happens once the gods come into action (I‘m just too much of a sucker for those type of stories) and c) with where things left off, I‘m excited to see what a rollercoaster of an adventure the sequel will be.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
June 3, 2024
4⭐️ - Bonne lecture
Je n'avais pas particulièrement d'attentes sur ce titre et contre toute attente, j'ai beaucoup aimé !
L'intrigue est bien menée, avec des POV multiples qui apportent beaucoup de rythme. Même si j'avoue que certains peuvent un peu se confondre, je me suis bien immergée dans l'histoire et j'avais vraiment l'impression de partir à l'aventure avec nos héros ! En plus, j'avoue que j'aime énormément les histoires de marins et j'ai trouvé l'ambiance de celle-ci particulièrement réussie. Les plots twists étaient très cools et j'ai été bien surprise 😱
Les personnages sont plutôt attachants, avec chacun un background que l'on a plaisir à découvrir au fil du roman. J'étais aussi surprise que l'on suive le POV du "méchant", c'était vraiment un ajout intéressant à la narration. J'ai tout particulièrement apprécié Keegan, qui sous ses airs érudits cache un grand courage.
La romance est peut-être un peu rapide et sortie de nulle part mais cela ne m'a pas trop dérangée, même si j'aurais préféré plus de slow burn !
En résumé, vraiment tout ce que j'aime dans un roman YA, j'ai juste pas tout compris à la fin ce qui baisse un peu ma note mais c'était vraiment cool à part ça !
Je n'avais pas particulièrement d'attentes sur ce titre et contre toute attente, j'ai beaucoup aimé !
L'intrigue est bien menée, avec des POV multiples qui apportent beaucoup de rythme. Même si j'avoue que certains peuvent un peu se confondre, je me suis bien immergée dans l'histoire et j'avais vraiment l'impression de partir à l'aventure avec nos héros ! En plus, j'avoue que j'aime énormément les histoires de marins et j'ai trouvé l'ambiance de celle-ci particulièrement réussie. Les plots twists étaient très cools et j'ai été bien surprise 😱
Les personnages sont plutôt attachants, avec chacun un background que l'on a plaisir à découvrir au fil du roman. J'étais aussi surprise que l'on suive le POV du "méchant", c'était vraiment un ajout intéressant à la narration. J'ai tout particulièrement apprécié Keegan, qui sous ses airs érudits cache un grand courage.
La romance est peut-être un peu rapide et sortie de nulle part mais cela ne m'a pas trop dérangée, même si j'aurais préféré plus de slow burn !
En résumé, vraiment tout ce que j'aime dans un roman YA, j'ai juste pas tout compris à la fin ce qui baisse un peu ma note mais c'était vraiment cool à part ça !
July 4, 2023
"Everyone tells the same story different ways. And the only version we're the hero of is our own."
This reignited my love of reading and single handedly (pagedly?) ripped me out of my slump. If there are book spirits anything like the wind, earth, fire, and water spirits in this book, they're absolutely dancing around me right now.
I feel the love and respect Amie Kaufman has for each of these characters, including the "villains", pour out in every word. Multiple points of view, and in present tense no less, can be incredibly difficult to pull off, and this was masterful.
The pacing was perfect. If you're looking for an exciting fantasy adventure story that moves along well but still manages to hold lovely pockets of calm, this is the one for you.
Also, goodness gracious, how lovely to have a fantasy setting that isn't inherently homophobic. We have enough of that in the real world, so to escape to this one where the queen just casually has a wife and it's not even a thing is just NICE. That's only one example, but it's the first one that comes to mind.
Do you know what I mean when I say that this book made me stressed in a good way? Hard to describe, but oooof. What a fun feeling (which as an anxious human is a pretty weird thing to say, really).
I implore you to read The Isles of the Gods. I BEG you to read it, if only so I'll have more people to talk about it with. Amie Kaufman has presented something absolutely magical, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
My deepest gratitude to Penguin Random House Canada for sending me this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
This reignited my love of reading and single handedly (pagedly?) ripped me out of my slump. If there are book spirits anything like the wind, earth, fire, and water spirits in this book, they're absolutely dancing around me right now.
I feel the love and respect Amie Kaufman has for each of these characters, including the "villains", pour out in every word. Multiple points of view, and in present tense no less, can be incredibly difficult to pull off, and this was masterful.
The pacing was perfect. If you're looking for an exciting fantasy adventure story that moves along well but still manages to hold lovely pockets of calm, this is the one for you.
Also, goodness gracious, how lovely to have a fantasy setting that isn't inherently homophobic. We have enough of that in the real world, so to escape to this one where the queen just casually has a wife and it's not even a thing is just NICE. That's only one example, but it's the first one that comes to mind.
Do you know what I mean when I say that this book made me stressed in a good way? Hard to describe, but oooof. What a fun feeling (which as an anxious human is a pretty weird thing to say, really).
I implore you to read The Isles of the Gods. I BEG you to read it, if only so I'll have more people to talk about it with. Amie Kaufman has presented something absolutely magical, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
My deepest gratitude to Penguin Random House Canada for sending me this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
June 30, 2023
- dnf due to the antagonists of the story being both people of color and queer, while the majority of the protagonist/pov cast are white and straight. this shit is downright ridiculous, and especially considering that Kaufman and her buddy Jay kristoff do not handle characters of color well, with both getting justified criticism about their portrayals of different cultures. the plot of this story could’ve been so interesting, but the narrative choice to have poc and queer characters as villains while the heroes are white and straight is something that has needed to be abandoned for years.
May 23, 2024
Cada capítulo es mejor que el anterior: barcos, magia, conspiraciones políticas y personajes carismáticos <3
May 3, 2023
I’m obsessed with this book and I need the next one NOW!!! The sea setting was exquisitely done, the mythology and magic system surrounding this new world is extremely cool, and the characters are just amazing!!! I love Leander, Selly and Keegan with all my heart and I hope we get a ton more of Jude in the next one.
This story is full of adventure, magic, high stakes, banter and romance, and it’s definitely a must read.
This story is full of adventure, magic, high stakes, banter and romance, and it’s definitely a must read.
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