Thisby is a small island, full of fisherman and horses, but there is something strange about it. The sea that swirls around the island is full of capaill uisce, a strange breed of water horse. Every November the horses surface, beautiful and deadly, hungry for blood. The locals risk their lives, catching the horses, training them and then racing them in the most important of their traditions, the Scorpio Races. It's a deadly game, filled with blood thirsty horses, men hungry for glory and death. It is also Thisby's main form of income, drawing in eager mainlanders from miles around.
Sean Kendrick is an expert on the capaill uisce. Having been trained from a young age, he has grown up feeling more connection with the horses than the people on the island. He works for a local horse breeder, taking care of his horses and then riding in the races every November. He's won four times and doesn't intend on losing this next one.
Kate Connolly has two brothers, Finn and Gabe. They live on the island of Thisby, working to stay alive. Their parents were killed last November on the sea by one of the capall uisce. Although terrified, Kate decides to enter the Scorpio Races when she finds out her eldest brother, Gabe, plans to leave the island. They need the money and she hopes to persuade her brother to stay. However, the town isn't quite thrilled to see a woman entering the races, especially since she intends to race with an island pony instead of a capall uisce.
Sean, first annoyed by Kate's presence in the races, comes to find her courage intriguing. He persuades the men of the island to allow her to race. They begin to train together, Sean on his capall uisce, Corr, and Kate on her island pony, Dove, giving each other the courage to fight for what they want. Together, they find friendship, courage and love on the beaches of Thisby.
The problem is only one of them can win the race and both their fates are tied to it.
Legend, folklore...whatever this book is, it's good. I was intrigued from moment one. The legend of the capaill uisce is unique and spell binding. I loved the author's use of imagery and imagination. She wove a beautiful tale, so detailed, I felt as if I was on the beaches of Thisby myself.
Her characters all had personality and depth. I loved the fact that I didn't necessarily like all of them and that didn't change throughout the book. Too many times we believe books have to end with everyone being a good guy to be worth reading. Not true and Maggie Stiefvater proves it.
This is probably one of my favorite reads so far this year. I would recommend it highly and have to admit I'm having a hard time getting the story out of my head. :)
Parents, the book is clean. There are a few bloody scenes because of the nature of the sea horses but other than that its a wonderful story. Love, love, loved it!!!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
Megan Chase is a normal sixteen year old girl. Well, almost normal. Her mother remarried, after her father mysteriously disappeared, when she was a small child and now she lives on a pig farm in a small town in Louisiana with her step father and brother Ethan.
Strange things begin happening to Megan's on her sixteenth birthday. She begins seeing things and comes home to find her mother unconscious on the floor and her brother acting strange. That's when she finds out the world isn't what she thought it was. Her best friend Robbie, who ends up being the infamous Robin Goodfellow, opens her eyes to the world of the Faeries.
Megan refuses Robin's offer to drink a wine that will hide the Faery from her eyes when she finds out that her brother Ethan has been kidnapped and taken into the Faery world. She sets out with Robin, also called Puck, to find her brother in the magical world of the Faery.
Once inside the Faery, Megan discovers a whole other world filled with the creatures of myths and nightmares. She is chased by everything from ogres to goblins to bogeys in her journey through the Faery. In an unfortunate turn of events, Megan is separated from Puck and has to depend on Grimalikin, a sith-cat, to take her to find her friend again.
Grimalikin takes her to the Summer King Oberon's court where Megan finds out that she is not who she thought she was. She is half faery, the daughter of the Summer King. Her father accepts her into his court but she is shunned for being a half breed by almost everyone else. Oberon's wife, Queen Titiana makes life especially hard for her and sentences her to work in the kitchen.
Battered and abused, Megan tries to hold onto hope of finding her brother though she doesn't know where to look. That is, until the Winter court comes to dine. The Winter Fey are the enemies of the Summer Fey and Megan is convinced that they have taken Ethan. She escapes the Summer court with the help of Grimlikan and heads out to find Ethan.
There is only one problem...Ash. Prince Ash of the Winter court has been order by his queen to capture Megan and bring her back and he is about to do just that when they are attacked by a strange breed of Fey that are made of iron. Their very essence is deadly to the Summer and Winter Fey, except for Megan because she is part human. It is during this attack that Megan discovers her brother is being held by the Iron King.
Puck, Ash, Grimlikan and Megan head to an oracle in New Orleans to find a way to defeat the Iron King so she can save her brother. Puck is injured after another run in with the Iron Fey and he and Grimlikan stay behind while her and Ash set out to find the Iron King.
After receiving a witch wood arrow, the only thing that can kill the Iron King, Megan and Ash head into the Iron Realm. Ash grows sicker and sicker as they travel deeper into the Iron Fey's territory and is too weak to escape when they are captured. Megan continues on alone in search for the Iron King.
She finally arrives at the Iron King's layer only to find Ethan and Ash in his possession. She is determined to defeat the Iron King and save her brother and the Winter Prince, whom she now loves. Using the witch wood arrow, she kills the Iron King and saves her brother and Ash. Relieved, she returns her brother home, anxious to be back to a normal life. There is only one problem....she knows too much now. Also, she must pay up on a debt she owes to the Winter Prince. In exchange for his help in the Iron Realm, she must now go willingly to the Winter court.
What will happen to her in the Winter Court, the court of her enemies? How can Ash and her be together when their love is forbidden? You'll have to read the next book to find out.
I have to say that my words don't even do this book justice. This is by far one of my most favorite series of all time. Julie Kagawa combines modern times with fantasy and old time chivalry (which I love). There is action and romance and crazy off the wall fantasy. The characters are well thought out and the plot is enticing. I could not put the book down and after the first one, I ran out and bought the two sequels right away.
This book will leave you pining for more and with the fourth and final book getting ready to release on October 25, 2011 now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the series.
Parents, there is some language in this book and it is also full to the hilt with fantasy. Every kind of mythical creature you can imagine is in the book. In fact, I'm not sure how Julie Kagawa keeps it all straight. If you are against that sort of thing, this is definitely not a book for you. Otherwise, this book has kept me wanting more from day one.
The writer is brilliant, truly one of my favorites. I love her style and imagination. If I could give this book three thumbs up, I would!
Strange things begin happening to Megan's on her sixteenth birthday. She begins seeing things and comes home to find her mother unconscious on the floor and her brother acting strange. That's when she finds out the world isn't what she thought it was. Her best friend Robbie, who ends up being the infamous Robin Goodfellow, opens her eyes to the world of the Faeries.
Megan refuses Robin's offer to drink a wine that will hide the Faery from her eyes when she finds out that her brother Ethan has been kidnapped and taken into the Faery world. She sets out with Robin, also called Puck, to find her brother in the magical world of the Faery.
Once inside the Faery, Megan discovers a whole other world filled with the creatures of myths and nightmares. She is chased by everything from ogres to goblins to bogeys in her journey through the Faery. In an unfortunate turn of events, Megan is separated from Puck and has to depend on Grimalikin, a sith-cat, to take her to find her friend again.
Grimalikin takes her to the Summer King Oberon's court where Megan finds out that she is not who she thought she was. She is half faery, the daughter of the Summer King. Her father accepts her into his court but she is shunned for being a half breed by almost everyone else. Oberon's wife, Queen Titiana makes life especially hard for her and sentences her to work in the kitchen.
Battered and abused, Megan tries to hold onto hope of finding her brother though she doesn't know where to look. That is, until the Winter court comes to dine. The Winter Fey are the enemies of the Summer Fey and Megan is convinced that they have taken Ethan. She escapes the Summer court with the help of Grimlikan and heads out to find Ethan.
There is only one problem...Ash. Prince Ash of the Winter court has been order by his queen to capture Megan and bring her back and he is about to do just that when they are attacked by a strange breed of Fey that are made of iron. Their very essence is deadly to the Summer and Winter Fey, except for Megan because she is part human. It is during this attack that Megan discovers her brother is being held by the Iron King.
Puck, Ash, Grimlikan and Megan head to an oracle in New Orleans to find a way to defeat the Iron King so she can save her brother. Puck is injured after another run in with the Iron Fey and he and Grimlikan stay behind while her and Ash set out to find the Iron King.
After receiving a witch wood arrow, the only thing that can kill the Iron King, Megan and Ash head into the Iron Realm. Ash grows sicker and sicker as they travel deeper into the Iron Fey's territory and is too weak to escape when they are captured. Megan continues on alone in search for the Iron King.
She finally arrives at the Iron King's layer only to find Ethan and Ash in his possession. She is determined to defeat the Iron King and save her brother and the Winter Prince, whom she now loves. Using the witch wood arrow, she kills the Iron King and saves her brother and Ash. Relieved, she returns her brother home, anxious to be back to a normal life. There is only one problem....she knows too much now. Also, she must pay up on a debt she owes to the Winter Prince. In exchange for his help in the Iron Realm, she must now go willingly to the Winter court.
What will happen to her in the Winter Court, the court of her enemies? How can Ash and her be together when their love is forbidden? You'll have to read the next book to find out.
I have to say that my words don't even do this book justice. This is by far one of my most favorite series of all time. Julie Kagawa combines modern times with fantasy and old time chivalry (which I love). There is action and romance and crazy off the wall fantasy. The characters are well thought out and the plot is enticing. I could not put the book down and after the first one, I ran out and bought the two sequels right away.
This book will leave you pining for more and with the fourth and final book getting ready to release on October 25, 2011 now is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the series.
Parents, there is some language in this book and it is also full to the hilt with fantasy. Every kind of mythical creature you can imagine is in the book. In fact, I'm not sure how Julie Kagawa keeps it all straight. If you are against that sort of thing, this is definitely not a book for you. Otherwise, this book has kept me wanting more from day one.
The writer is brilliant, truly one of my favorites. I love her style and imagination. If I could give this book three thumbs up, I would!
Friday, October 7, 2011
The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
I read this book at the recommendation of one of my favorite authors, Veronica Roth, author of Divergent, which I must also review here soon. This is definitely a unique book, unlike anything I've ever read before. I'm still trying to wrap my head around it and figure out what I think about it.
We begin the story in the country of Orovalle, looking in on the second Princess, Lucero-Elisa. She is not heir to the throne but Elisa is special because she bears what is called a Godstone. Every hundred years, a bearer is chosen, selected for an act of service believed to be crucial in God's eyes for the human race. Elisa feels unworthy of this gift and inferior to her sister, who is brilliant and beautiful. Things become worse for her when finds that she will be married to the King of Joya d'Arena, the desert country, at the young age of sixteen. She turns to the one thing that brings her comfort, food.
After her hasty marriage to King Alejandro, Elisa is taken to Joya d'Arena but is asked to keep their marriage a secret until he feels an announcement is timely. Elisa reluctantly agrees, wishing to win the favor of the King, who does not seem interested in her at all. With her nurse, Ximena, as her only friend Elisa feels alone and frightened, threatened by the nobles of Joya d'Arena, who seem to be perplexed by her coming. Also the rumors of war with the Inviernos continue to make her feel unsafe. She must not let anyone know about the Godstone or she could be in great danger. Many would love to have the bearer of the Godstone in their possession.
While in Joya d'Arena, Elisa spends much time with the priest Nicholas. After secretly asking him to meet her in private, she discovers that she has been sheltered from the truth about her Godstone all of her life. Taught to believe it was a gift for a great service, she was never told that the stone would almost certainly lead her into danger, to be exact, into the enemies gates. She also learns that many of the previous bearers died while fulfilling their act of service.
With this new discovery, Elisa has a lot to think about but she doesn't get time. Not long after her arrival in Orovalle, she is kidnapped. Forced to travel across the desert for over a month she finally arrives in a small village on the very outskirts of King Alejandro's territory. There she finds that the war threatening to overtake Joya d'Arena has already begun. Many of the King's people are dead or wounded, leaving only the elderly and children alive. This is the very reason they have kidnapped Elisa. They believe as the bearer she can save them.
As Elisa observes the village and its inhabitants, she begins to see the importance of life and loyalty. Her indifference to the world outside of the Palace crumbles and she quickly identifies with the needs of the people. Feeling the urge to help grow within, Elisa proposes a plan to her new friends. They will put fear into the Inviernos that are marching upon Joya d' Arena by creating the rumor of fear. The Malifico is created and attacks the enemy in small subtle bursts, just enough to create fear but not enough so that the villagers are killed or enter into battle.
Meanwhile, Elisa and four other companions, who have become close friends, travel to the heart of the Inviernos army to observe them. The plan doesn't go so well and Elisa is captured. Upon meeting one of the leaders, an animagus, she learns the power of the enemy lies in stolen Godstones from previous bearers. She manages to escape, killing the animagus and returns to the villagers. Humberto, the boy Elisa is falling in love with even though she isn't supposed to, is especially glad to see her.
They devise a new plan, hoping to force another traitorous noble into siding with the Malifico but when Elisa and her companions arrive to talk about a merger things go horribly wrong. Humberto is killed, crushing Elisa, and it looks like all hope is gone. Things take a turn when one of the King's guards, Lord Hector, comes and rescues Elisa and her friends.
With the war raging at their heels, Elisa returns to Joya d'Arena to take her place as Queen. Alejandro barely recognizes Elisa as she has not only changed in appearance but also in demeanor. Now confident in herself, Elisa continues to pray to God for a plan. She believes it is her time in history as a bearer to act but still doesn't know exactly how.
As the Inviernos breach the walls of the city, things finally fall into place. Elisa combines the power of several Godstones from previous bearers with her own and destroys the animaga. The city is saved but the King dies, wounded in the fight. Elisa takes over the throne ready in stature and mind to lead the people of Joya d'Arena. Since she is still alive we can only wonder if God has more to accomplish with this bearer (maybe in another book?).
This book is deeply spiritual in nature as Elisa is the chosen one. I think after I got over the initial shock of this Godstone being stuck in her belly button, I was okay. I loved the reality that the book portrayed. There were no perfect people or situations. We saw Elisa, in the beginning, fearful and unsure of herself and watched her grow into a woman of confidence over the course of the book. We saw a weak King who gained courage and we saw the beauty of love break through the surface appearance.
I have to admit, the ending was a little weird. The Godstone belly button thing came back to haunt me with her final act and I felt it was a little cheesy. I was surprised, after how intrigued I had been by the rest of the book, to come back to this weirdness. There was such depth and character to the book but it was slightly tainted for me by the weird belly button thing.
Would I recommend the book. Yes, without a doubt. I think aside from the weird belly button thing this was an excellent read filled with love, loyalty and self discovery. Watching Elisa grow is by far the best part of the book. When she finds her confidence, so do you. She isn't a perfect hero, she's an attainable one and sometimes those are the best kind. The kind you could see yourself becoming if you were in her shoes.
Parents, this book is clean to the hilt, although the descriptions Elisa has of herself in the beginning may make a boy feel a little uncomfortable. Spirituality runs deep throughout the book but in my opinion it is not too controversial. I love how Elisa learns to trust God through the book. Even when she doesn't understand what he is doing, she learns to believe in his purpose for her. I don't know if I would say two thumbs up, since I did have some things I didn't like, but I would give it at least one maybe one and a half.
We begin the story in the country of Orovalle, looking in on the second Princess, Lucero-Elisa. She is not heir to the throne but Elisa is special because she bears what is called a Godstone. Every hundred years, a bearer is chosen, selected for an act of service believed to be crucial in God's eyes for the human race. Elisa feels unworthy of this gift and inferior to her sister, who is brilliant and beautiful. Things become worse for her when finds that she will be married to the King of Joya d'Arena, the desert country, at the young age of sixteen. She turns to the one thing that brings her comfort, food.
After her hasty marriage to King Alejandro, Elisa is taken to Joya d'Arena but is asked to keep their marriage a secret until he feels an announcement is timely. Elisa reluctantly agrees, wishing to win the favor of the King, who does not seem interested in her at all. With her nurse, Ximena, as her only friend Elisa feels alone and frightened, threatened by the nobles of Joya d'Arena, who seem to be perplexed by her coming. Also the rumors of war with the Inviernos continue to make her feel unsafe. She must not let anyone know about the Godstone or she could be in great danger. Many would love to have the bearer of the Godstone in their possession.
While in Joya d'Arena, Elisa spends much time with the priest Nicholas. After secretly asking him to meet her in private, she discovers that she has been sheltered from the truth about her Godstone all of her life. Taught to believe it was a gift for a great service, she was never told that the stone would almost certainly lead her into danger, to be exact, into the enemies gates. She also learns that many of the previous bearers died while fulfilling their act of service.
With this new discovery, Elisa has a lot to think about but she doesn't get time. Not long after her arrival in Orovalle, she is kidnapped. Forced to travel across the desert for over a month she finally arrives in a small village on the very outskirts of King Alejandro's territory. There she finds that the war threatening to overtake Joya d'Arena has already begun. Many of the King's people are dead or wounded, leaving only the elderly and children alive. This is the very reason they have kidnapped Elisa. They believe as the bearer she can save them.
As Elisa observes the village and its inhabitants, she begins to see the importance of life and loyalty. Her indifference to the world outside of the Palace crumbles and she quickly identifies with the needs of the people. Feeling the urge to help grow within, Elisa proposes a plan to her new friends. They will put fear into the Inviernos that are marching upon Joya d' Arena by creating the rumor of fear. The Malifico is created and attacks the enemy in small subtle bursts, just enough to create fear but not enough so that the villagers are killed or enter into battle.
Meanwhile, Elisa and four other companions, who have become close friends, travel to the heart of the Inviernos army to observe them. The plan doesn't go so well and Elisa is captured. Upon meeting one of the leaders, an animagus, she learns the power of the enemy lies in stolen Godstones from previous bearers. She manages to escape, killing the animagus and returns to the villagers. Humberto, the boy Elisa is falling in love with even though she isn't supposed to, is especially glad to see her.
They devise a new plan, hoping to force another traitorous noble into siding with the Malifico but when Elisa and her companions arrive to talk about a merger things go horribly wrong. Humberto is killed, crushing Elisa, and it looks like all hope is gone. Things take a turn when one of the King's guards, Lord Hector, comes and rescues Elisa and her friends.
With the war raging at their heels, Elisa returns to Joya d'Arena to take her place as Queen. Alejandro barely recognizes Elisa as she has not only changed in appearance but also in demeanor. Now confident in herself, Elisa continues to pray to God for a plan. She believes it is her time in history as a bearer to act but still doesn't know exactly how.
As the Inviernos breach the walls of the city, things finally fall into place. Elisa combines the power of several Godstones from previous bearers with her own and destroys the animaga. The city is saved but the King dies, wounded in the fight. Elisa takes over the throne ready in stature and mind to lead the people of Joya d'Arena. Since she is still alive we can only wonder if God has more to accomplish with this bearer (maybe in another book?).
This book is deeply spiritual in nature as Elisa is the chosen one. I think after I got over the initial shock of this Godstone being stuck in her belly button, I was okay. I loved the reality that the book portrayed. There were no perfect people or situations. We saw Elisa, in the beginning, fearful and unsure of herself and watched her grow into a woman of confidence over the course of the book. We saw a weak King who gained courage and we saw the beauty of love break through the surface appearance.
I have to admit, the ending was a little weird. The Godstone belly button thing came back to haunt me with her final act and I felt it was a little cheesy. I was surprised, after how intrigued I had been by the rest of the book, to come back to this weirdness. There was such depth and character to the book but it was slightly tainted for me by the weird belly button thing.
Would I recommend the book. Yes, without a doubt. I think aside from the weird belly button thing this was an excellent read filled with love, loyalty and self discovery. Watching Elisa grow is by far the best part of the book. When she finds her confidence, so do you. She isn't a perfect hero, she's an attainable one and sometimes those are the best kind. The kind you could see yourself becoming if you were in her shoes.
Parents, this book is clean to the hilt, although the descriptions Elisa has of herself in the beginning may make a boy feel a little uncomfortable. Spirituality runs deep throughout the book but in my opinion it is not too controversial. I love how Elisa learns to trust God through the book. Even when she doesn't understand what he is doing, she learns to believe in his purpose for her. I don't know if I would say two thumbs up, since I did have some things I didn't like, but I would give it at least one maybe one and a half.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Wither (The Chemical Garden Trilogy) by Lauren DeStefano
Although I read this book awhile ago, I have been recently drawn to it again and feel that it is review worthy. I picked up this book on a whim and was a little nervous about the content but decided to give it a try. I was pleasantly surprised.
The book is set in futuristic America but the world is much different than now. In an effort to rid humanity of sickness and defects, scientists created a cure to breed new healthy children. However, something went terribly wrong. The children were born healthy, as expected, but their lifespan was cut dramatically. Women now only live to be twenty years old and men only to the age of twenty-five.
This change in age caused a panic. Scientist are desperately trying to find a remedy but in the meantime, humanity is dealing with it in its own way. People called the Gatherers kidnap girls, as young as thirteen, and sell them to wealthy gentlemen who are hoping to keep their family line alive. The ones who are not chosen are sold into prostitution or killed. These wealthy men, called House Governors, take multiple wives in an effort to save humanity.
This is where we join our main character, Rhine, a sixteen year old girl. She has been taken by the Gatherers and is ultimately chosen to be the wife of a wealthy House Governor. She is taken, against her will, to a mansion far from her home with two other girls that are also intended to be this man's wives.
At first, Rhine is furious and she doesn't open herself up to anyone but after figuring out she is stuck, she begins to soften. Her sister wives, Jenna and Cecily are completely different from one another. Cecily is only thirteen and is eager to please her new husband. Jenna is older and despises him but loves the comforts of the mansion. Rhine just wants her own life back.
The girls' husband, Linden, has chosen them to replace his first wife Rose, who dies early on in the book. He warms up to the girls because his Father, Housemaster Vaughn has convinced him to keep trying to extend his family line. Linden likes all of his new wives but he is especially drawn to Rhine, possibly because she reminds him of his late wife.
Time passes and after Cecily becomes pregnant, Rhine realizes that her only way out of her prison may be to warm up to Linden. She begins to show him affection in hopes of becoming what is called the First Wife, who is the one the Governor chooses to go to all the parties with him and to whom he gives more freedom. If she can accomplish this, maybe she can find an opportunity to escape. There is only one problem, she is falling in love with one of the boys on the staff named Gabriel.
Although Linden is oblivious to Rhine's infatuation with Gabriel, her affections do not escape Master Vaughn's notice. He warns her to be careful or things could go badly for her and she's heard from the staff what exactly that means. Master Vaughn is a scientist who is still desperately trying to find a cure for humanity and sometimes he needs "subjects" to test on.
Shortly after Master Vaughn's warning, Gabriel disappears. Rhine fears the worst. Jenna helps her escape to the basement, where Gabriel is rumored to be and Rhine finds him. They make plans to escape together.
Jenna pays for her involvement in helping Rhine and not that long afterwards, she dies from a mysteriously early case of the sickness. Rhine suspects Master Vaughn's involvement but continues to play the part, kissing up to Linden. His fascination with her gains Rhine his approval and she ends being the First Wife.
The day before she leaves, she finds out that Cecily, her other sister wife, had been in league with Master Vaughn all along, which only strengthens her resolve to run away. She meets up with Gabriel and they escape. Finding a boat, they set sail towards New York, where Rhine is from, to find her brother. They are finally free.
Will Linden or Housemaster Vaughn come after them? Will they be able to find a cure so her and Gabriel can be together forever? I'm guessing we'll find out in the next book because this is going to be a trilogy.
Although the subject matter was a little unorthodox, I have to admit I fell in love with this book. The beginning is so intense and frightening and the whole plot is just well thought out. I just kept thinking, I could actually see this happening if the world was in this situation and that's kind of disturbing.
Though the thought of polygamy leaves a sour taste in my mouth, I loved the relationships that Lauren DeStefano created between the sister wives. It was awkward and comforting at the same time. I hated Cecily and felt sorry for her too. I cried when Jenna passed away. It was so easy to feel everything that Rhine was feeling throughout the story. I was surprised by how captivated I was by this strange, crazy, wonderful book.
Would I recommend it? Yes and no. This book is definitely for an older audience. It has adult themes and though it isn't super descriptive, I still feel it is meant for an older crowd. Parents be warned that the birds and the bees are mentioned. That being said this was a good book. The beauty is in the relationships that the author creates and in the struggle of a teenage girl coping with all of these strange things that happen to her. I will definitely be buying the sequel to this novel.
The book is set in futuristic America but the world is much different than now. In an effort to rid humanity of sickness and defects, scientists created a cure to breed new healthy children. However, something went terribly wrong. The children were born healthy, as expected, but their lifespan was cut dramatically. Women now only live to be twenty years old and men only to the age of twenty-five.
This change in age caused a panic. Scientist are desperately trying to find a remedy but in the meantime, humanity is dealing with it in its own way. People called the Gatherers kidnap girls, as young as thirteen, and sell them to wealthy gentlemen who are hoping to keep their family line alive. The ones who are not chosen are sold into prostitution or killed. These wealthy men, called House Governors, take multiple wives in an effort to save humanity.
This is where we join our main character, Rhine, a sixteen year old girl. She has been taken by the Gatherers and is ultimately chosen to be the wife of a wealthy House Governor. She is taken, against her will, to a mansion far from her home with two other girls that are also intended to be this man's wives.
At first, Rhine is furious and she doesn't open herself up to anyone but after figuring out she is stuck, she begins to soften. Her sister wives, Jenna and Cecily are completely different from one another. Cecily is only thirteen and is eager to please her new husband. Jenna is older and despises him but loves the comforts of the mansion. Rhine just wants her own life back.
The girls' husband, Linden, has chosen them to replace his first wife Rose, who dies early on in the book. He warms up to the girls because his Father, Housemaster Vaughn has convinced him to keep trying to extend his family line. Linden likes all of his new wives but he is especially drawn to Rhine, possibly because she reminds him of his late wife.
Time passes and after Cecily becomes pregnant, Rhine realizes that her only way out of her prison may be to warm up to Linden. She begins to show him affection in hopes of becoming what is called the First Wife, who is the one the Governor chooses to go to all the parties with him and to whom he gives more freedom. If she can accomplish this, maybe she can find an opportunity to escape. There is only one problem, she is falling in love with one of the boys on the staff named Gabriel.
Although Linden is oblivious to Rhine's infatuation with Gabriel, her affections do not escape Master Vaughn's notice. He warns her to be careful or things could go badly for her and she's heard from the staff what exactly that means. Master Vaughn is a scientist who is still desperately trying to find a cure for humanity and sometimes he needs "subjects" to test on.
Shortly after Master Vaughn's warning, Gabriel disappears. Rhine fears the worst. Jenna helps her escape to the basement, where Gabriel is rumored to be and Rhine finds him. They make plans to escape together.
Jenna pays for her involvement in helping Rhine and not that long afterwards, she dies from a mysteriously early case of the sickness. Rhine suspects Master Vaughn's involvement but continues to play the part, kissing up to Linden. His fascination with her gains Rhine his approval and she ends being the First Wife.
The day before she leaves, she finds out that Cecily, her other sister wife, had been in league with Master Vaughn all along, which only strengthens her resolve to run away. She meets up with Gabriel and they escape. Finding a boat, they set sail towards New York, where Rhine is from, to find her brother. They are finally free.
Will Linden or Housemaster Vaughn come after them? Will they be able to find a cure so her and Gabriel can be together forever? I'm guessing we'll find out in the next book because this is going to be a trilogy.
Although the subject matter was a little unorthodox, I have to admit I fell in love with this book. The beginning is so intense and frightening and the whole plot is just well thought out. I just kept thinking, I could actually see this happening if the world was in this situation and that's kind of disturbing.
Though the thought of polygamy leaves a sour taste in my mouth, I loved the relationships that Lauren DeStefano created between the sister wives. It was awkward and comforting at the same time. I hated Cecily and felt sorry for her too. I cried when Jenna passed away. It was so easy to feel everything that Rhine was feeling throughout the story. I was surprised by how captivated I was by this strange, crazy, wonderful book.
Would I recommend it? Yes and no. This book is definitely for an older audience. It has adult themes and though it isn't super descriptive, I still feel it is meant for an older crowd. Parents be warned that the birds and the bees are mentioned. That being said this was a good book. The beauty is in the relationships that the author creates and in the struggle of a teenage girl coping with all of these strange things that happen to her. I will definitely be buying the sequel to this novel.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore (Book 2 of the Lorien Legacy)
Wow!! I literally just finished this book. It was awesome!!! I started reading the Lorien Legacy Books after seeing the first movie, "I am Number Four". I liked the movie enough to know that the book would be ten times better and I was right. The first book was amazing. I mean an alien race with superpowers, trying to stay hidden on Earth from their mortal enemies. Pretty cool stuff, right? Book two blew book one out of the water!!!
We start our journey following a new member of the Garde, Number Seven. She is tucked away in a convent in the mountains of Spain. She is desperately trying to learn her legacies and find out information about the other but her Cepan (her protector and guide) has become complacent, taking on the beliefs of our world instead of staying true to her position.
Seven, who is called Marina, begins seeing weird people show up in her village. It doesn't take her long to figure out that the Mogadorians have found her. Afraid and basically alone, she begins to plot her escape. Her only problem is she need to find her chest, filled with special stones and power, before she can leave.
Meanwhile, in America, Six, Sam and John are on the run. They've been plastered across the news as possible terrorists and have to stay in hiding. While they are hiding out, moving from place to place, we find out some of Six's back story. They also spend time training and honing their legacies.
Sam joins in on the fun and begins to train as well. He learns, through a letter Henri left for John, that his father was a Lorien ally. Most likely, his father was abducted or killed helping the Lorien. This only brings him closer to his new Lorien friends. As he pieces together the puzzle of his father's life, Sam realizes that he has been telling him secrets all along. He believes that his father left a clue for him to find a transmitter back in Paradise, Ohio, back where it all began.
Six, Sam and John head back to Paradise, despite the great danger, to find the transmitter. They manage to unlock the puzzle and retrieve some items from a hidden room underneath Sam's yard but when they come back out, the Mogadorians are waiting. Amidst the fighting, John loses his Chest. Six and him split up to try and find it but when John realizes it is gone he pleads with Sam to go and visit Sarah, his Paradise sweetheart.
Against Sam's wishes, they head to Sarah's house. John and Sarah are reunited but it quickly becomes strained when Sarah realizes that John may have feelings for Six as well. He has been fighting off the feelings but cannot deny the attraction between them. It doesn't seem to matter though because when the police show up, John sees that Sarah has betrayed him by giving his location away.
Six rescues Sam and John from jail and then they decide to split up for awhile. Six feels that another member of the Garde is in trouble in Spain and she is going to help them. Sam and John are headed to the Mogadorian's main base to try and retrieve his chest. They will meet up in two weeks time back in West Virginia.
Six doesn't know but the situation in Spain is escalating. Marina has become friends with a small orphan who has been brought to the convent named Ella. When things become dangerous Ella reveals herself as member of the Garde, Number Ten, who escaped on a separate ship off of the planet of Lorien during the war. Ella and her Cepan, find Marina's chest and Marina just in time as the Mogadorians are chasing her. They flee to a lake near the town to hold their ground but things look pretty hopeless as countless enemies come their way.
On the other side of the world, John and Sam infiltrate the Mogadorian's hideout, using the transferred ability of invisibility from Six, and find John's chest. The power, however, wears off and they are forced to battle the Mogadorians for the chest. Using his legacies John and Sam fight their way towards the entrance of the hideout. On the way, they discover prisoners. One of them just happens to be Number Nine.
Sam is ecstatic about the prisoners and begins to check all the cells, hoping to find his father. John and Sam get separated as the Mogadorians continue to attack and when John gets hurt, Number Nine pulls him out of the hideout, without Sam. Injured and depleted, John and Nine must leave Sam behind but John vows to come back for him. They head out to try to find the others so they can infiltrate the hideout with larger numbers next time.
Meanwhile, Six finally reaches Spain and is there in just the nick of time to help Marina, Ella and her Cepan defeat the Mogadorians. United now, they set off to find the remaining Garde and the Chimera that came on the ship with Ella from Lorien.
Will Sam get rescued or die? Will the Garde find the remaining two members that are missing? Are they ready to face the oncoming Mogadorian Army that is sure to be chasing them now? We'll find out the answers in Book Three (hopefully).
As I said before, I loved this book. There is action around every corner. There are stories of deep loyalty and friendship and most of all, there are some pretty awesome powers in there. I think all of us can agree that we imagined ourselves with the power of invisibility or resistance to fire or just something cool like that as a child. This book is our childhood dreams come alive!
The author skillfully put in a small romance but didn't make it the central point of the book. I also loved the connection with Sam's father to the Lorien. That was a genius twist in the plot. I was totally appalled by Sarah's betrayal, although I'm sure we'll see her again. Also, I'm completely pumped to see the remaining two members of the Garde (hopefully in the next book).
Lastly, can I just say that Pittacus Lore is an awesome name. I love saying it! It just sounds fun.
Parents you can rest assured that this book would be awesome for your teen. It plays on childhood fantasies that we've all had of having super powers and fighting to save humanity. There is a ton of fighting in the book but it's awesome. Who doesn't love a good butt kicking fight with swords and guns and a few supernatural powers in there? It's a pretty clean book, language at a bare minimum and the romance is completely clean. I give this book two thumbs up!!
We start our journey following a new member of the Garde, Number Seven. She is tucked away in a convent in the mountains of Spain. She is desperately trying to learn her legacies and find out information about the other but her Cepan (her protector and guide) has become complacent, taking on the beliefs of our world instead of staying true to her position.
Seven, who is called Marina, begins seeing weird people show up in her village. It doesn't take her long to figure out that the Mogadorians have found her. Afraid and basically alone, she begins to plot her escape. Her only problem is she need to find her chest, filled with special stones and power, before she can leave.
Meanwhile, in America, Six, Sam and John are on the run. They've been plastered across the news as possible terrorists and have to stay in hiding. While they are hiding out, moving from place to place, we find out some of Six's back story. They also spend time training and honing their legacies.
Sam joins in on the fun and begins to train as well. He learns, through a letter Henri left for John, that his father was a Lorien ally. Most likely, his father was abducted or killed helping the Lorien. This only brings him closer to his new Lorien friends. As he pieces together the puzzle of his father's life, Sam realizes that he has been telling him secrets all along. He believes that his father left a clue for him to find a transmitter back in Paradise, Ohio, back where it all began.
Six, Sam and John head back to Paradise, despite the great danger, to find the transmitter. They manage to unlock the puzzle and retrieve some items from a hidden room underneath Sam's yard but when they come back out, the Mogadorians are waiting. Amidst the fighting, John loses his Chest. Six and him split up to try and find it but when John realizes it is gone he pleads with Sam to go and visit Sarah, his Paradise sweetheart.
Against Sam's wishes, they head to Sarah's house. John and Sarah are reunited but it quickly becomes strained when Sarah realizes that John may have feelings for Six as well. He has been fighting off the feelings but cannot deny the attraction between them. It doesn't seem to matter though because when the police show up, John sees that Sarah has betrayed him by giving his location away.
Six rescues Sam and John from jail and then they decide to split up for awhile. Six feels that another member of the Garde is in trouble in Spain and she is going to help them. Sam and John are headed to the Mogadorian's main base to try and retrieve his chest. They will meet up in two weeks time back in West Virginia.
Six doesn't know but the situation in Spain is escalating. Marina has become friends with a small orphan who has been brought to the convent named Ella. When things become dangerous Ella reveals herself as member of the Garde, Number Ten, who escaped on a separate ship off of the planet of Lorien during the war. Ella and her Cepan, find Marina's chest and Marina just in time as the Mogadorians are chasing her. They flee to a lake near the town to hold their ground but things look pretty hopeless as countless enemies come their way.
On the other side of the world, John and Sam infiltrate the Mogadorian's hideout, using the transferred ability of invisibility from Six, and find John's chest. The power, however, wears off and they are forced to battle the Mogadorians for the chest. Using his legacies John and Sam fight their way towards the entrance of the hideout. On the way, they discover prisoners. One of them just happens to be Number Nine.
Sam is ecstatic about the prisoners and begins to check all the cells, hoping to find his father. John and Sam get separated as the Mogadorians continue to attack and when John gets hurt, Number Nine pulls him out of the hideout, without Sam. Injured and depleted, John and Nine must leave Sam behind but John vows to come back for him. They head out to try to find the others so they can infiltrate the hideout with larger numbers next time.
Meanwhile, Six finally reaches Spain and is there in just the nick of time to help Marina, Ella and her Cepan defeat the Mogadorians. United now, they set off to find the remaining Garde and the Chimera that came on the ship with Ella from Lorien.
Will Sam get rescued or die? Will the Garde find the remaining two members that are missing? Are they ready to face the oncoming Mogadorian Army that is sure to be chasing them now? We'll find out the answers in Book Three (hopefully).
As I said before, I loved this book. There is action around every corner. There are stories of deep loyalty and friendship and most of all, there are some pretty awesome powers in there. I think all of us can agree that we imagined ourselves with the power of invisibility or resistance to fire or just something cool like that as a child. This book is our childhood dreams come alive!
The author skillfully put in a small romance but didn't make it the central point of the book. I also loved the connection with Sam's father to the Lorien. That was a genius twist in the plot. I was totally appalled by Sarah's betrayal, although I'm sure we'll see her again. Also, I'm completely pumped to see the remaining two members of the Garde (hopefully in the next book).
Lastly, can I just say that Pittacus Lore is an awesome name. I love saying it! It just sounds fun.
Parents you can rest assured that this book would be awesome for your teen. It plays on childhood fantasies that we've all had of having super powers and fighting to save humanity. There is a ton of fighting in the book but it's awesome. Who doesn't love a good butt kicking fight with swords and guns and a few supernatural powers in there? It's a pretty clean book, language at a bare minimum and the romance is completely clean. I give this book two thumbs up!!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Passion by Lauren Kate (Book 3 of the Fallen Series)
Book one....decent
Book two....better
Book three.....well....
I have to say that this series has been okay for me but not my favorite. The third book starts out right where we left off in Torment (Book 2) with Luce having just stepped into an Announcer. Let the road trip begin!!!
While trying to discover some crucial piece of information about the curse on her and Daniel, Luce visits numerous accounts of her past lives. We go from Prussia, to Italy, to Ancient China and back again all trying to uncover the secret of a loophole in the curse. Of course, Daniel (and the other angels and demons) are hot on her trail, trying to stop her from make a fatal mistake but they are always a step behind.
Halfway through her journey, Luce meets up with a gargoyle named Bill, who is supposed to be a Scale (someone who helps guide others through the Announcers). Luce is alone and needs help and she confides in Bill who leads her to unique stages of her past lives. He also introduces her to "3 D" which occurs when she touches one of her past selves. She can then relive the moment as if she were actually there again.
Luce finds one thing consistent through all of her experiences. Daniel loves her, through and through and it only strengthens her love for him. Daniel continues to chase her but then figures out he might be able to find a loophole in the curse himself. Off goes Daniel on his own little quest to places within his past.
After many of Luce's lives, Bill finally suggests that he knows a way for Luce to be free of the curse. She must split her soul away from herself with a starshot (the fatal immortal arrow) when she is about to die within one of her past lives. The only catch is she won't be connected to Daniel anymore. Luce contemplates this decision because of her longing to stop putting Daniel through pain when she dies over and over again throughout time but in the end she just can't bring herself to separate the love that they share.
Bill becomes furious when she fails to "separate" her soul and then shows his true form. That's right, he's the Devil in disguise (shocker). Since his plan fails, he takes Luce back in time to Heaven in the beginning of the Fall. He also deceives Daniel into being there as well. The Devil is convinced that if he relives the Fall again, this time he can turn the tide in his favor. However, he misses one crucial thing, this is the very thing that Daniel needs to create a loophole in his and Luce's curse.
Daniel pleads with God to have mercy on him and Luce, thus creating a loophole. If Luce is not in covenant with any side and chooses Daniel over everything then the curse may be broken and they can be together.
End of story, right? Guess again. Even though the curse has a loophole now, Satan's plan is still in action. The Fall is supposed to take nine days. Now the Fallen have nine days to figure out a way to defeat the Devil and change history forever. Guess we'll find out how that goes in the fourth book due in Spring of 2012.
Sooooo....as far as this particular book of the series is concerned, I wasn't really impressed. It was a little repetitive and the mushy, gooey stuff got to even me after awhile (*gasp*). Not that I don't enjoy a good romance (cause you know I do) but it was just over and over again and by the end of the book I was just ready to be done. I definitely see why the author went this way but it felt like she was dragging things out, kind of forced. I didn't even really feel like Luce learned anything huge on her journeys. So, she found out she loves Daniel and that he loves her. Didn't we already know this?
In the end, it's Daniel who creates the loophole in the curse not Luce. She doesn't even realize what is exactly killing her in each life. We get that confession when Daniel is before God.
Am I saying I didn't like the book. Well, yes and no. I didn't care for this particular book of the series but I don't dislike the series as a whole. Book two was, by far, my favorite so far. I am looking forward to the next book. I think the author created a great set up for an epic end. I just hope she lives up to the hype.
On a whole, I would label this series a filler series (in between reading when you can't find anything else). Good reading but definitely not the best. I've read far better series by far better authors (no offense intended as I respect anyone who has had as much success as Lauren Kate).
Parents, I'm kind of cautious on this kind of a series. It definitely touches the spiritual realm deeply. Make sure you are comfortable with your impressionable teenager delving into it. As for content, there are definitely kissing scenes and passion (duh) but nothing too saucy. Also there might be a few curse words involved but nothing extensive.
And that's a wrap :)
Book two....better
Book three.....well....
I have to say that this series has been okay for me but not my favorite. The third book starts out right where we left off in Torment (Book 2) with Luce having just stepped into an Announcer. Let the road trip begin!!!
While trying to discover some crucial piece of information about the curse on her and Daniel, Luce visits numerous accounts of her past lives. We go from Prussia, to Italy, to Ancient China and back again all trying to uncover the secret of a loophole in the curse. Of course, Daniel (and the other angels and demons) are hot on her trail, trying to stop her from make a fatal mistake but they are always a step behind.
Halfway through her journey, Luce meets up with a gargoyle named Bill, who is supposed to be a Scale (someone who helps guide others through the Announcers). Luce is alone and needs help and she confides in Bill who leads her to unique stages of her past lives. He also introduces her to "3 D" which occurs when she touches one of her past selves. She can then relive the moment as if she were actually there again.
Luce finds one thing consistent through all of her experiences. Daniel loves her, through and through and it only strengthens her love for him. Daniel continues to chase her but then figures out he might be able to find a loophole in the curse himself. Off goes Daniel on his own little quest to places within his past.
After many of Luce's lives, Bill finally suggests that he knows a way for Luce to be free of the curse. She must split her soul away from herself with a starshot (the fatal immortal arrow) when she is about to die within one of her past lives. The only catch is she won't be connected to Daniel anymore. Luce contemplates this decision because of her longing to stop putting Daniel through pain when she dies over and over again throughout time but in the end she just can't bring herself to separate the love that they share.
Bill becomes furious when she fails to "separate" her soul and then shows his true form. That's right, he's the Devil in disguise (shocker). Since his plan fails, he takes Luce back in time to Heaven in the beginning of the Fall. He also deceives Daniel into being there as well. The Devil is convinced that if he relives the Fall again, this time he can turn the tide in his favor. However, he misses one crucial thing, this is the very thing that Daniel needs to create a loophole in his and Luce's curse.
Daniel pleads with God to have mercy on him and Luce, thus creating a loophole. If Luce is not in covenant with any side and chooses Daniel over everything then the curse may be broken and they can be together.
End of story, right? Guess again. Even though the curse has a loophole now, Satan's plan is still in action. The Fall is supposed to take nine days. Now the Fallen have nine days to figure out a way to defeat the Devil and change history forever. Guess we'll find out how that goes in the fourth book due in Spring of 2012.
Sooooo....as far as this particular book of the series is concerned, I wasn't really impressed. It was a little repetitive and the mushy, gooey stuff got to even me after awhile (*gasp*). Not that I don't enjoy a good romance (cause you know I do) but it was just over and over again and by the end of the book I was just ready to be done. I definitely see why the author went this way but it felt like she was dragging things out, kind of forced. I didn't even really feel like Luce learned anything huge on her journeys. So, she found out she loves Daniel and that he loves her. Didn't we already know this?
In the end, it's Daniel who creates the loophole in the curse not Luce. She doesn't even realize what is exactly killing her in each life. We get that confession when Daniel is before God.
Am I saying I didn't like the book. Well, yes and no. I didn't care for this particular book of the series but I don't dislike the series as a whole. Book two was, by far, my favorite so far. I am looking forward to the next book. I think the author created a great set up for an epic end. I just hope she lives up to the hype.
On a whole, I would label this series a filler series (in between reading when you can't find anything else). Good reading but definitely not the best. I've read far better series by far better authors (no offense intended as I respect anyone who has had as much success as Lauren Kate).
Parents, I'm kind of cautious on this kind of a series. It definitely touches the spiritual realm deeply. Make sure you are comfortable with your impressionable teenager delving into it. As for content, there are definitely kissing scenes and passion (duh) but nothing too saucy. Also there might be a few curse words involved but nothing extensive.
And that's a wrap :)
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Vanish by Sophie Jordan
Just finished the sequel to Firelight by Sophie Jordan called Vanish. I had been anticipating the sequel for quite some time and it didn't disappoint. The book was shorter than I like but I couldn't put it down.
The book starts where we left off in Firelight, with Jacinda and her family headed back to the pride. However, something unexpected happens. On the way there, Tamra, Jacinda's sister, manifests after years of thinking that she would never be a draki. We also find out that she is just as rare as her sister, a shader draki. There are only two in the Pride.
Things go well for Tamra upon returning to the Pride but not for Jacinda. She is seen as a traitor and is shunned by everyone, except Cassian. Cassian is determined as ever to win Jacinda's affections but she is still pining over Will. At first, she finds Cassian's advances annoying but eventually her loneliness leads her to see that she feels something for him as well.
Then the impossible happens. Will finds the Pride by some stroke of luck, or is it the draki blood that runs through his veins that leads him there? Either way, he's created a problem that Jacinda just can't ignore. Cassian orders her to break off all connection with him or he'll tell the Pride about the draki blood inside of him. There is only one problem, she can't live without the boy she so desperately loves.
Will and Jacinda concoct a plan to run away together but it goes horribly wrong when Will's hunter family shows up. Jacinda and Cassian's sister, whose been spying on Jacinda, are captured. Will helps Jacinda escape but she cannot run knowing that Cassian's sister is still in the hands of the hunters. She heads back to the Pride, against Will's wishes and bears the full punishment for her actions.
The Pride is livid and demands the cutting of Jacinda's wings but when it comes down to it Cassian can't bear the thought of it and offers an alternative. If Jacinda will bond with him, then her wings will be spared. Unwillingly, she accepts and is thereafter bonded with Cassian. Afterwards, her plan to run away only strengthens. She needs to be with Will more than anything.
After convincing her sister to run with her, Jacinda and Tamra sneak away and head out to meet Will. Cassian finds them and tries to stop her until he finds out her plan. They are on a mission to save his little sister. Cassian insists on coming along and the group follows Will into the heart of the draki hunter's operations.
Will they live or die? Will Jacinda choose Cassian or Will? We won't know till book three because that's exactly where Sophie Jordan ends the book.
Altogether, I loved the book. The twist with Tamra was an awesome addition to the series and I absolutely loved seeing this side of Cassian. I actually think I wanted Jacinda to end up with him after this book. As always, Sophie Jordan's books are a little on the short side but the intensity was so great that it didn't matter. I never once got bored, maybe a little mad at Jacinda for how she was treating Cassian, but never bored. I can't wait for the next book. This series is such a different concept and I love the descriptions of the changing from human to draki. Sophie makes it so believable you feel like you are right there.
As for parents looking for a good read for their teens. This is a great choice. There are a few intense kissing scenes but outside of that it is a relatively clean book. I give it two thumbs up!!!
The book starts where we left off in Firelight, with Jacinda and her family headed back to the pride. However, something unexpected happens. On the way there, Tamra, Jacinda's sister, manifests after years of thinking that she would never be a draki. We also find out that she is just as rare as her sister, a shader draki. There are only two in the Pride.
Things go well for Tamra upon returning to the Pride but not for Jacinda. She is seen as a traitor and is shunned by everyone, except Cassian. Cassian is determined as ever to win Jacinda's affections but she is still pining over Will. At first, she finds Cassian's advances annoying but eventually her loneliness leads her to see that she feels something for him as well.
Then the impossible happens. Will finds the Pride by some stroke of luck, or is it the draki blood that runs through his veins that leads him there? Either way, he's created a problem that Jacinda just can't ignore. Cassian orders her to break off all connection with him or he'll tell the Pride about the draki blood inside of him. There is only one problem, she can't live without the boy she so desperately loves.
Will and Jacinda concoct a plan to run away together but it goes horribly wrong when Will's hunter family shows up. Jacinda and Cassian's sister, whose been spying on Jacinda, are captured. Will helps Jacinda escape but she cannot run knowing that Cassian's sister is still in the hands of the hunters. She heads back to the Pride, against Will's wishes and bears the full punishment for her actions.
The Pride is livid and demands the cutting of Jacinda's wings but when it comes down to it Cassian can't bear the thought of it and offers an alternative. If Jacinda will bond with him, then her wings will be spared. Unwillingly, she accepts and is thereafter bonded with Cassian. Afterwards, her plan to run away only strengthens. She needs to be with Will more than anything.
After convincing her sister to run with her, Jacinda and Tamra sneak away and head out to meet Will. Cassian finds them and tries to stop her until he finds out her plan. They are on a mission to save his little sister. Cassian insists on coming along and the group follows Will into the heart of the draki hunter's operations.
Will they live or die? Will Jacinda choose Cassian or Will? We won't know till book three because that's exactly where Sophie Jordan ends the book.
Altogether, I loved the book. The twist with Tamra was an awesome addition to the series and I absolutely loved seeing this side of Cassian. I actually think I wanted Jacinda to end up with him after this book. As always, Sophie Jordan's books are a little on the short side but the intensity was so great that it didn't matter. I never once got bored, maybe a little mad at Jacinda for how she was treating Cassian, but never bored. I can't wait for the next book. This series is such a different concept and I love the descriptions of the changing from human to draki. Sophie makes it so believable you feel like you are right there.
As for parents looking for a good read for their teens. This is a great choice. There are a few intense kissing scenes but outside of that it is a relatively clean book. I give it two thumbs up!!!
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