There is something so lethargic about being back in the midst of these characters and their various shades of London. The new characters fit into thisThere is something so lethargic about being back in the midst of these characters and their various shades of London. The new characters fit into this world like a glove and I'm loving getting to know them. V.E. Schwab is as brilliant as ever and has made coming back to this world like coming home.
I would 100% recommend reading the Shadoes of Magic trilogy before Threads of Power. It is hard picking up a new book knowing that it is extending off of a series you loved deeply. I was nervous I would be dissapointed or just couldn't love the new characters the same as I did in Shades of Magic but I was pleasantly surprised. There is a lot more of Kell, Lila, Rhy, and Alacard than I expected and we get a lot of flashbacks to various events that bridge Shades of Magic to Threads of Power. In this sense I think that TFToP does a great job in bringing us up to speed but I might be a bit selfish here, I wish we would have gotten a standalone or something to bridge these books together. We spend so much time flashing back and forth that it takes away from the new and current characters. Schwab introduces us to a new cast of characters that, for the most part, you can't help but love. I am intrigued by the more in depth look into the magic system that weaves the London's together and seeing other gifts being expanded upon has made returning to the world interesting and engaging. I look forward to the rest of the series and really anything V.E. Schwab puts out into the world.
Thank you to the publisher for an advance readers copy....more
In 17th-century London, where strange babies with uncanny traits come into the world, Sarah Davis seeks refuge in the bustling city. As a midwife's apIn 17th-century London, where strange babies with uncanny traits come into the world, Sarah Davis seeks refuge in the bustling city. As a midwife's apprentice within the secretive Worshipful Company of Midwives, she hopes to carve an independent life for herself. With each unnatural birth, fear of the supernatural swells, casting a shadow of unease over London.
This enthralling tale follows Sarah's journey as she takes on the role of midwife, concealing her unique abilities while navigating a city gripped by fear. When Lady Wren, a woman of means, enlists Sarah to guide her through her pregnancy, Sarah becomes intertwined with the influential architect Lord Christopher Wren, who harbors a keen interest in the uncanny. However, his fascination leans dangerously close to obsession, pulling Sarah into a captivating web of magic and intrigue.
The story masterfully weaves a sense of enchantment and trepidation, creating a spellbinding narrative that explores the depths of Sarah's powers and the covetous pursuits of those who wish to harness them. As the plot unfolds, the stakes rise, threatening not only Sarah but the very fabric of the world itself. This novella's only shortcoming is its length. With its richly drawn characters and compelling premise, it leaves you craving more. The blend of history, mystery, and the supernatural makes for a riveting read.
In summary, "The Midwife of the Universe" is a mesmerizing and enchanting tale of secrets, magic, and the pursuit of power. It's a captivating read that leaves you yearning for an extended journey through this evocative and mysterious world.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ALC of this book. ...more
These books get progressively better and I am loving the 'side characters' who have all become main characters. These books get progressively better and I am loving the 'side characters' who have all become main characters. ...more
"Holly Horror" weaves a dark narrative that kept me on the edge of my seat. This YA horror novel stands out for its ability to genuinely evoke fear, m"Holly Horror" weaves a dark narrative that kept me on the edge of my seat. This YA horror novel stands out for its ability to genuinely evoke fear, making it a captivating read from start to finish.
At the heart of the story lies the relatable theme of coming of age, expertly blended with spine-tingling horror. Evie Archer's life takes a drastic turn after her family's painful divorce, and the Horror House in Ravenglass, Massachusetts, becomes the unsettling backdrop for her new reality. The tension builds steadily as Evie uncovers the haunting history of Holly Hobbie, whose mysterious disappearance sets the stage for a tale of the supernatural.
The sense of unease is palpable throughout the narrative, and I found myself tensing with each unfolding event. The atmosphere is expertly crafted, immersing readers in a world where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs, leaving a lingering sense of dread. The presence of a strange shadow and the gradual takeover of Evie's life by traces of Holly's existence contributes to the novel's spine-chilling effect.
One of the standout elements of "Holly Horror" is its fast-paced and addicting plot. The story propels forward with a relentless momentum, ensuring that readers remain hooked and eager to unravel the mysteries shrouding the Horror House. Evie's journey is both captivating and harrowing, as she grapples with the unknown and unearths the unsettling truths hidden within the walls of her new home.
While the horror elements are prominent, the novel also successfully explores Evie's struggles and the challenges of navigating adolescence. These coming-of-age vibes add depth to the narrative, making the characters more relatable and the overall experience more fulfilling.
In conclusion, "Holly Horror" is a standout YA horror novel that delivers genuine scares alongside a compelling coming-of-age story. With its well-paced plot, atmospheric setting, and a perfect blend of horror and emotion, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre. I rate it 4.5 stars for its ability to keep me hooked and genuinely frightened throughout.
Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book to review. ...more
This book suffers from: -Male lead that thinks he knows everything and some how comes up with solutions tha1.75 round up....
Yes, I should have DNF'd.
This book suffers from: -Male lead that thinks he knows everything and some how comes up with solutions that the experts never thought of but any human who breaths air would have thought of???? -Intricate female descriptions esp of their hair and bodies and yet we were given barely a descripter for the males? hmmm.......more
In 1943 Lithuania, a grieving and revenge filled father resurrects a golem in the image and flesh of his daughter. His sole purpose for this creature,In 1943 Lithuania, a grieving and revenge filled father resurrects a golem in the image and flesh of his daughter. His sole purpose for this creature, that he finds repulsive, is to revenge his daughter who was killed by the Nazi's. He embeds Vera with memories from a past life that both guide and haunt her.
Vera's perspective on the acts of WWII offer a unique perspective and look into what was going on in civilain life during the war. Through Vera's eyes, we witness the emotional turmoil and harrowing experiences of those struggling to survive in an unforgiving landscape. There was a lot of emotion behind the story and all of the characters we were introduced to play a significant roll in painting a picture of what life looked during the war. It was a unique perspective to be focused on the civillians and their part in the war versus just the action of war.
The sporadic action scenes, although brief, are juxtaposed with extensive passages of reflection and contemplation, which may disrupt the pacing of the plot. Nevertheless, the characters' motivations remain clear, driving the narrative forward.
Overall, this book was an interesting and emotional look at WWII in Lithuania and the civilians left behind to take care of each other and fend for themselves.
Thank you to InkYard Press for an finished copy of the book to review. ...more
"Rosie Danan's 'Do Your Worst' is an enchanting escapade that masterfully weaves together romance, humor, and a dash of the supernatural. From the ver"Rosie Danan's 'Do Your Worst' is an enchanting escapade that masterfully weaves together romance, humor, and a dash of the supernatural. From the very beginning, the intricate characterization of the main protagonists draws readers into their complex worlds, where personal histories become integral to the unfolding narrative.
The Scottish castle, shrouded in mystery and burdened by a centuries-old curse, serves as a captivating backdrop. Danan skillfully navigates the transition from a lighthearted hookup to the tension-filled realm of enemies to lovers, fueled by a palpable yearning that stems from the characters' layered pasts.
The setting itself deserves a full five stars, transporting readers to a world where the ancient and the contemporary coexist seamlessly. As Riley and Clark embark on a scavenger hunt amid acts of sabotage, their challenges extend beyond the surface, adding depth to their evolving relationship. The story's multifaceted layers keep readers engaged, from the nuanced exploration of the characters' personal struggles to the suspenseful unraveling of the curse's mysteries. Danan's storytelling prowess shines through as the narrative unfolds against the rich tapestry of the Scottish landscape.
'Do Your Worst' is not merely a romance; it's a journey of self-discovery, redemption, and the triumph of love over adversity. The blend of supernatural elements, witty banter, and genuine emotion ensures that this book will linger in the minds and hearts of readers long after the final page is turned." Thank you to the publisher for an advance readers copy of this book!...more
Half Sick of Shadows has sat on my shelf since the day it released and here I am two years later, and it wasn't worth the wait.
The story is told throHalf Sick of Shadows has sat on my shelf since the day it released and here I am two years later, and it wasn't worth the wait.
The story is told through multiple timelines the past, the present, and snipits of the future (through visions). This left the story not as solid and when switching between timelines it was hard to decipher what timeline you were in without the author expicitly telling you.
We get told about a lot of high action and heart breaking futures but never get to see these play out. The book felt slow and disjointed without more solid events actually occuring in the book. We are building up to the war and a romantic betrayal and yet we never see how these play out in the story just multiple visions of the same thing happening again and again. The repetition of an event and how we never get to see it was frusterating and made you wonder what the point of the book was. ...more