Scan barcode
momwithareadingproblem's reviews
1177 reviews
Kiss of Fire by Rebecca Ethington
4.0
I stumbled across this book in January and could not put it down! It quickly became one of my all time favorites and I read the rest of the series in just four days. Now I'm eagerly awaiting Soul of Flame book four of this amazing series!
Kiss of Fire is the story of sixteen year old Joclyn Despain and how she discovers that not all is what it seems in her world. At the age of five, she received a mark and was in a coma for months. Upon awaking, her father leaves in search of what he thinks is wrong with her. Her mother stays and finds work at the LaRue mansion as a cook. This is where Joclyn meets her one and only friend, Ryland LaRue. Now teens, hormones have kicked in and Joclyn feels more than friendly towards him. However she reminds herself Only friends multiple times throughout the book. But when Ryland sees the mark for the first time, things spiral quickly. What is this mark? Why does it always ruin her life?
I loved the characters in this book! Joclyn isn't the drama-type that is typical of YA/PNR books of today. She holds her own. She's quick witted, well educated and quite frankly a strong character. She loves her best friend, who is her only friend. She is fiercely loyal to her mother, who stuck by her after her dad left. Her flaw is the mark. This mark has controlled her life, she does everything in her power to make sure no one sees it, so no one else will leave her because of it. Ryland, who is her best friend and love interest, is handsome and just his touch seems to calm her. He also seems very in tune with her thoughts and feelings. Almost as if he can sense them. Wyn is the new girl at Joclyn's school. She's spunky and fierce, and to her credit really likes Joclyn despite the mark. Ilyan is Wyn's older brother and guardian and he gives Joclyn the creeps. Something about him is familiar but she can't place it.
As the story progresses Joclyn's life is turned upside down. I can't talk about why without giving away a big spoiler so just trust me when I say it is the basis for this series! The mark isn't what she thought it to be. Joclyn doesn't know whether to trust Ilyan and Wyn and all she wants is Ryland back. But can she do it?
The world building in this book lays the groundwork for the rest of the series. I love Ethington's take of witches! It's unlike anything I've ever read. I also loved that she kept it a clean read. Little to no foul language and mild romantic themes. Perfect for the young adult audience!
If you like witches and PNR, and if you enjoyed the Beautiful Creatures series I think you will enjoy this book! Be warned though, it is a cliff hanger and I couldn't wait to start in on book two!
Kiss of Fire is the story of sixteen year old Joclyn Despain and how she discovers that not all is what it seems in her world. At the age of five, she received a mark and was in a coma for months. Upon awaking, her father leaves in search of what he thinks is wrong with her. Her mother stays and finds work at the LaRue mansion as a cook. This is where Joclyn meets her one and only friend, Ryland LaRue. Now teens, hormones have kicked in and Joclyn feels more than friendly towards him. However she reminds herself Only friends multiple times throughout the book. But when Ryland sees the mark for the first time, things spiral quickly. What is this mark? Why does it always ruin her life?
I loved the characters in this book! Joclyn isn't the drama-type that is typical of YA/PNR books of today. She holds her own. She's quick witted, well educated and quite frankly a strong character. She loves her best friend, who is her only friend. She is fiercely loyal to her mother, who stuck by her after her dad left. Her flaw is the mark. This mark has controlled her life, she does everything in her power to make sure no one sees it, so no one else will leave her because of it. Ryland, who is her best friend and love interest, is handsome and just his touch seems to calm her. He also seems very in tune with her thoughts and feelings. Almost as if he can sense them. Wyn is the new girl at Joclyn's school. She's spunky and fierce, and to her credit really likes Joclyn despite the mark. Ilyan is Wyn's older brother and guardian and he gives Joclyn the creeps. Something about him is familiar but she can't place it.
As the story progresses Joclyn's life is turned upside down. I can't talk about why without giving away a big spoiler so just trust me when I say it is the basis for this series! The mark isn't what she thought it to be. Joclyn doesn't know whether to trust Ilyan and Wyn and all she wants is Ryland back. But can she do it?
The world building in this book lays the groundwork for the rest of the series. I love Ethington's take of witches! It's unlike anything I've ever read. I also loved that she kept it a clean read. Little to no foul language and mild romantic themes. Perfect for the young adult audience!
If you like witches and PNR, and if you enjoyed the Beautiful Creatures series I think you will enjoy this book! Be warned though, it is a cliff hanger and I couldn't wait to start in on book two!
The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks
5.0
What can I say?! This is [a:Nicholas Sparks|2345|Nicholas Sparks|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1332884095p2/2345.jpg] at his best! It was such a heartwarming and heartbreaking read all at the same time. I left this story feeling content with its conclusion.
The Longest Ride is set in the mountains of North Carolina and revolves around three main characters: Ira Levinson, Luke Collins, and Sophia Danko. As the reader we alternate among these character's POV. We start with Ira and I love his introduction so much, I will let him tell you who he is:
You know Deedee's parents from the Rugrats? Anyways, where was I? Oh! So Ira experiences a near-death accident at the beginning of the book and he nostalgically recalls his life from his parents, to fighting in WWII, to his beautiful life with his wife Ruth (who also is an ancillary character). It's a sweet story and one that I can only hope to be my own romance with my husband.
The next character we are introduced to is Sophia. She is a senior in college, having just broke up with her narcissistic, cheating boyfriend, and is in desperate need of having some fun. At least according to her best friend and roommate who drags her out to a rodeo. Enter Luke who happens to be a full-fledged cowboy and rodeo star. Here's what I picture when I read about his description:
(FYI: This is real cowboy Jory Markiss!) Anyways, Luke comes in being the hero and basically embarrasses Sophia's ex when he is trying to get her to leave with him despite her persistent No's. So two people who couldn't be more different, strike up a friendship that develops into more in true Sparks fashion.
I loved the imagery in this book. Having been raised near the Appalachia mountains I could easily picture Luke's ranch and the beautiful winter that is described. I loved the characters too! They each were described in such detail that by the end of the story I felt these people were real and Sophia could easily be my best friend or a girl I went to college with. Probably my favorite scene in the whole book is Luke taking Sophia horseback riding for the first time. She had never been and her descriptions of the experience made me feel like I was doing it myself! Ugh, And the ending....the way Sparks brings these three characters together and interweaves their lives is something only Sparks can do! It was again heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time!
If you are a fan of Nicholas Sparks or romance novels, you will enjoy this book! It was an easy read (I read it in one sitting) and unlike some of Sparks other works, it did not leave me feeling upset and heartbroken, rather it left me content and nostalgic!
The Longest Ride is set in the mountains of North Carolina and revolves around three main characters: Ira Levinson, Luke Collins, and Sophia Danko. As the reader we alternate among these character's POV. We start with Ira and I love his introduction so much, I will let him tell you who he is:
I sometimes think to myself that I'm the last of my kind.In my head I picture some version of this:
My name is Ira Levinson. I'm a southerner and a Jew, and equally proud to have been called both at one time or another. I'm also an old man. I was born in 1920, the year that alcohol was outlawed and women were given the right to vote, and I often wondered if that was the reason my life turned out the way it did. I've never been a drinker, after all, and the woman I married stood in line to cast a ballot for Roosevelt as soon as she reached the appropriate age, so it would be easy to imagine that the year of my birth somehow ordained it all.
You know Deedee's parents from the Rugrats? Anyways, where was I? Oh! So Ira experiences a near-death accident at the beginning of the book and he nostalgically recalls his life from his parents, to fighting in WWII, to his beautiful life with his wife Ruth (who also is an ancillary character). It's a sweet story and one that I can only hope to be my own romance with my husband.
The next character we are introduced to is Sophia. She is a senior in college, having just broke up with her narcissistic, cheating boyfriend, and is in desperate need of having some fun. At least according to her best friend and roommate who drags her out to a rodeo. Enter Luke who happens to be a full-fledged cowboy and rodeo star. Here's what I picture when I read about his description:
(FYI: This is real cowboy Jory Markiss!) Anyways, Luke comes in being the hero and basically embarrasses Sophia's ex when he is trying to get her to leave with him despite her persistent No's. So two people who couldn't be more different, strike up a friendship that develops into more in true Sparks fashion.
I loved the imagery in this book. Having been raised near the Appalachia mountains I could easily picture Luke's ranch and the beautiful winter that is described. I loved the characters too! They each were described in such detail that by the end of the story I felt these people were real and Sophia could easily be my best friend or a girl I went to college with. Probably my favorite scene in the whole book is Luke taking Sophia horseback riding for the first time. She had never been and her descriptions of the experience made me feel like I was doing it myself! Ugh, And the ending....the way Sparks brings these three characters together and interweaves their lives is something only Sparks can do! It was again heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time!
If you are a fan of Nicholas Sparks or romance novels, you will enjoy this book! It was an easy read (I read it in one sitting) and unlike some of Sparks other works, it did not leave me feeling upset and heartbroken, rather it left me content and nostalgic!
Eyes of Ember by Rebecca Ethington
5.0
Me after I read book:
I loved this book!!!! I didn't think after reading the first one I could like the rest of the series as much, but I was wrong.
Eyes of Ember by [a:Rebecca Ethington|6563633|Rebecca Ethington|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1361115527p2/6563633.jpg] is book two of the Imdalind series and it picks up right where book one left off. Joclyn and Ilyan are in hiding, and Joclyn's magic is dying because her bond with Ryland is breaking. Ryland is gone, or is he? In a last ditch effort to save her magic, Ilyan encourages Joclyn to go into the Touha where she finds a five year old Ryland who vaguely remembers her. Tortured by nightmares and the shell of Ryland, Joclyn learns her destiny in this book: the Silny is to restore balance to magic. But how can she do that?
After reading just the first chapter, I thought "Oh no! Love triangle? No way! Ryland gave everything to save her, Rebecca wouldn't make a love triangle!!!" Oh but she did!!! And oh Ilyan!
I think I may be in love! And yes I'm fangirling a bit but he is just such a great character. I love seeing the growth in his character from Joclyn's POV because let's face it. After book one, we didn't really know anything about him other than a.) he is king of all magic and b.) he is the Silny's protector (whatever that means right?!). So in this installment Ilyan's mysteries are revealed slowly and I loved it. I fell in love with him slowly just as Joclyn does.
And Joclyn! What an emotional trip! She's struggling to accept that Ryland is gone, then Cail is torturing her while she sleeps, her dad has been captured by Edmund, and then she learns the truth about who she is and what she is supposed to do!!! All I can say is props to her for not having a mental breakdown. Because I most certainly would have.
The plot for this story is fast moving, suspenseful, and sweetly romantic. I loved every aspect! And I loved the new characters Thom and Dramin (can't say much without spoiling the plot). Ugh! And the ending!!! I can't wait to start in on book three!
I loved this book!!!! I didn't think after reading the first one I could like the rest of the series as much, but I was wrong.
Eyes of Ember by [a:Rebecca Ethington|6563633|Rebecca Ethington|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1361115527p2/6563633.jpg] is book two of the Imdalind series and it picks up right where book one left off. Joclyn and Ilyan are in hiding, and Joclyn's magic is dying because her bond with Ryland is breaking. Ryland is gone, or is he? In a last ditch effort to save her magic, Ilyan encourages Joclyn to go into the Touha where she finds a five year old Ryland who vaguely remembers her. Tortured by nightmares and the shell of Ryland, Joclyn learns her destiny in this book: the Silny is to restore balance to magic. But how can she do that?
After reading just the first chapter, I thought "Oh no! Love triangle? No way! Ryland gave everything to save her, Rebecca wouldn't make a love triangle!!!" Oh but she did!!! And oh Ilyan!
I think I may be in love! And yes I'm fangirling a bit but he is just such a great character. I love seeing the growth in his character from Joclyn's POV because let's face it. After book one, we didn't really know anything about him other than a.) he is king of all magic and b.) he is the Silny's protector (whatever that means right?!). So in this installment Ilyan's mysteries are revealed slowly and I loved it. I fell in love with him slowly just as Joclyn does.
And Joclyn! What an emotional trip! She's struggling to accept that Ryland is gone, then Cail is torturing her while she sleeps, her dad has been captured by Edmund, and then she learns the truth about who she is and what she is supposed to do!!! All I can say is props to her for not having a mental breakdown. Because I most certainly would have.
The plot for this story is fast moving, suspenseful, and sweetly romantic. I loved every aspect! And I loved the new characters Thom and Dramin (can't say much without spoiling the plot). Ugh! And the ending!!! I can't wait to start in on book three!
The Phoenix Rising Destiny Calls by Phenice Arielle
5.0
Oh WOW! Where do I even begin?!?!
Towards the end of January I got an email through Goodreads from [a:Phenice Arielle|7134500|Phenice Arielle|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1379179113p2/7134500.jpg] whom I'd never heard of asking if I would read her book and review it for her. So apprehensive, I went to the book's info page and after seeing the cover I was like "I don't know....." then I read the synopsis and I thought, "okay I'll give it a go." And boy am I glad I did!
This book The Phoenix Rising - Destiny Calls is......it's.....I don't even have words! The story starts with a disturbing Preface (click here to read) that leaves you thinking that our MC is being tortured for the memories that become our story. Nanyamka, or Kay for short, is a beautiful African American college student in NYC who has been awarded the chance of a lifetime - a one month internship in South Africa for the NY Times. What journalism major could pass that up?! Well, if you could predict the future you would! At the airport in Cape Town, there's an explosion and Kay is kidnapped and forced into a poacher's slave camp. At the camp, another slave rescues her and the others that are imprisoned there and takes them to her tribe Ipharadisi (which translates to "paradise"). Here Kay learns about herself and what she is capable of doing for those she loves.
I loved these characters! Kay is so relatable in terms of her transformation from a normal American college student to a moral leader. The things that she encounters (love, loss, being kidnapped) all contribute to her development and I must say when faced with those atrocities she handles them well. She appropriately breaks down, but then she picks herself back up. Then there's the two men in her life: Callum (her American, not-so-much boyfriend, but definitely love of her life) and Erec (the doctor in the African tribe she takes refuge in). This is not a typical love-triangle scenario, instead put yourself in Kay's shoes....she's been kidnapped, probably is thought dead, no hope of returning home......I'd move on to the sweet, attractive doctor too! And I can't write a review without mentioning Beth and Tuki. Beth was Kay's college roommate and best friend, then the whole kidnapping thing happens. Tuki is the slave who saves Kay from the poachers and in turn becomes her best friend. I loved both of these characters so much. They bring the best out in Kay (just like friends should).
The writing is phenomenal. I loved each and every aspect of the plot and the imagery of South Africa. I felt like I was there, experiencing what Kay was feeling, hearing, and seeing. Told in first person POV, we get to see inside Kay's head and not only experience things as she does but also feel her emotions! What a roller coaster this book was! I was laughing out loud, crying and my heart warmed with some of her experiences.
This story has a little bit for everyone! Mystery, suspense, romance and a bonus it's a clean-read. I don't think I read a single foul word in the book! Though (my guess) Kay is 21 or 22 this book can be a YA or NA read with themes that I think teenagers will learn from. Caution though, there is a cliff-hanger! Can't wait to find out what happens to our Kay and the rest of the characters in book two!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Towards the end of January I got an email through Goodreads from [a:Phenice Arielle|7134500|Phenice Arielle|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1379179113p2/7134500.jpg] whom I'd never heard of asking if I would read her book and review it for her. So apprehensive, I went to the book's info page and after seeing the cover I was like "I don't know....." then I read the synopsis and I thought, "okay I'll give it a go." And boy am I glad I did!
This book The Phoenix Rising - Destiny Calls is......it's.....I don't even have words! The story starts with a disturbing Preface (click here to read) that leaves you thinking that our MC is being tortured for the memories that become our story. Nanyamka, or Kay for short, is a beautiful African American college student in NYC who has been awarded the chance of a lifetime - a one month internship in South Africa for the NY Times. What journalism major could pass that up?! Well, if you could predict the future you would! At the airport in Cape Town, there's an explosion and Kay is kidnapped and forced into a poacher's slave camp. At the camp, another slave rescues her and the others that are imprisoned there and takes them to her tribe Ipharadisi (which translates to "paradise"). Here Kay learns about herself and what she is capable of doing for those she loves.
I loved these characters! Kay is so relatable in terms of her transformation from a normal American college student to a moral leader. The things that she encounters (love, loss, being kidnapped) all contribute to her development and I must say when faced with those atrocities she handles them well. She appropriately breaks down, but then she picks herself back up. Then there's the two men in her life: Callum (her American, not-so-much boyfriend, but definitely love of her life) and Erec (the doctor in the African tribe she takes refuge in). This is not a typical love-triangle scenario, instead put yourself in Kay's shoes....she's been kidnapped, probably is thought dead, no hope of returning home......I'd move on to the sweet, attractive doctor too! And I can't write a review without mentioning Beth and Tuki. Beth was Kay's college roommate and best friend, then the whole kidnapping thing happens. Tuki is the slave who saves Kay from the poachers and in turn becomes her best friend. I loved both of these characters so much. They bring the best out in Kay (just like friends should).
The writing is phenomenal. I loved each and every aspect of the plot and the imagery of South Africa. I felt like I was there, experiencing what Kay was feeling, hearing, and seeing. Told in first person POV, we get to see inside Kay's head and not only experience things as she does but also feel her emotions! What a roller coaster this book was! I was laughing out loud, crying and my heart warmed with some of her experiences.
This story has a little bit for everyone! Mystery, suspense, romance and a bonus it's a clean-read. I don't think I read a single foul word in the book! Though (my guess) Kay is 21 or 22 this book can be a YA or NA read with themes that I think teenagers will learn from. Caution though, there is a cliff-hanger! Can't wait to find out what happens to our Kay and the rest of the characters in book two!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Have a Little Faith: A True Story by Mitch Albom
5.0
What an amazing, heart-wrenching, inspirational story! I read this book when it was first published in one sitting, then I had to go back and read it a second time. And now it's a book that I read at least once a year (and it never fails, I will use half a box of tissue reading it)!
Have a Little Faith by [a:Mitch Albom|2331|Mitch Albom|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1368640552p2/2331.jpg] is a true story that begins with an unusual request from the author's rabbi. His request is that Mitch delivers his eulogy. How do you say no to that? But this story is not just about the rabbi, but also about another man, a pastor who was a former drug addict. Each man has a story to tell and he shares it with Mitch.
But this story is more than just telling the life and faith of these two men. It is a story about a man who has wandered away from his faith and how knowing these two men brought him back. One of my favorite quotes from the book (and I have many) is this one:
Have a Little Faith by [a:Mitch Albom|2331|Mitch Albom|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1368640552p2/2331.jpg] is a true story that begins with an unusual request from the author's rabbi. His request is that Mitch delivers his eulogy. How do you say no to that? But this story is not just about the rabbi, but also about another man, a pastor who was a former drug addict. Each man has a story to tell and he shares it with Mitch.
"In the beginning, there was a question.All I can truly say is that the way that this author intertwines these two stories: one about the rabbi Albert Lewis, a man from his past who is "the most pious man" he knows and the other a Detroit pastor Henry Covington who preaches to the homeless in a decaying church is truly impressive! You get to know both men in under 300 pages as well as the author did over an eight year time span.
It became a last request.
"Will you do my eulogy?"
And, as is often the case with faith, I thought I was being asked a favor, when in fact I was being given one."
But this story is more than just telling the life and faith of these two men. It is a story about a man who has wandered away from his faith and how knowing these two men brought him back. One of my favorite quotes from the book (and I have many) is this one:
"Have you ever known a man of faith? Did you run the other way? If so, stop running. Maybe sit for a minute. For a glass of ice water. For a plate of corn bread. You may find there is something beautiful to learn, and it doesn't bite you and it doesn't weaken you, it only proves a divine spark lies inside each of us, and that spark may one day save the world."I've learned in life that having a little faith goes a long way and this book shows that in its purest form: love and hope. So if you are looking for an inspirational story, pick this one up. You won't be disappointed!
Scorched Treachery by Rebecca Ethington
5.0
Wow! Ok so I was not expecting to like this book as well as I did the first two, but I think I may have liked it more than them!
Scorched Treachery is book three of Rebecca Ethington's Imdalind series and unlike the first two installments, it is told from the alternating POVs of Ilyan and Wyn during the two weeks that Joclyn is trapped in Cail's mind. Ilyan struggles with the conflicting needs to protect and save Joclyn and protect what is left of his people. Wyn is just trying to survive her imprisonment by Edmund, but learns an awful truth about her past.
This story captured my attention from the beginning! And there are many things that occur that the author warns she will not repeat in later installments so if you are thinking about skipping it don't!! You will regret it. I loved seeing inside Ilyan's mind, feeling his helplessness and utter devotion to Joclyn is both heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. Ugh! and Wyn! The revelations about her character are both shocking and surreal! I knew from reading Eyes of Ember that there was more to her story after Thom's reaction to the news she was captured, but it was nothing at all that I could have predicted. I love it when an author surprises me!
There's not much world-building in this book as it is set around events that have already occurred, however I feel it is an excellent addition to this series. Ahhhh! and the ending! The last few chapters are set after Joclyn awakes and are told in her POV. Let's just say there is a nice little surprise that will keep you on the edge of your seat for book four! Can't wait for Soul of Flames!!!
Scorched Treachery is book three of Rebecca Ethington's Imdalind series and unlike the first two installments, it is told from the alternating POVs of Ilyan and Wyn during the two weeks that Joclyn is trapped in Cail's mind. Ilyan struggles with the conflicting needs to protect and save Joclyn and protect what is left of his people. Wyn is just trying to survive her imprisonment by Edmund, but learns an awful truth about her past.
This story captured my attention from the beginning! And there are many things that occur that the author warns she will not repeat in later installments so if you are thinking about skipping it don't!! You will regret it. I loved seeing inside Ilyan's mind, feeling his helplessness and utter devotion to Joclyn is both heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. Ugh! and Wyn! The revelations about her character are both shocking and surreal! I knew from reading Eyes of Ember that there was more to her story after Thom's reaction to the news she was captured, but it was nothing at all that I could have predicted. I love it when an author surprises me!
There's not much world-building in this book as it is set around events that have already occurred, however I feel it is an excellent addition to this series. Ahhhh! and the ending! The last few chapters are set after Joclyn awakes and are told in her POV. Let's just say there is a nice little surprise that will keep you on the edge of your seat for book four! Can't wait for Soul of Flames!!!
Soul of Flame by Rebecca Ethington
5.0
Me after finishing this book:
So very good!
Soul of Flame is the fourth installment in the Imdalind Series by [a:Rebecca Ethington|6563633|Rebecca Ethington|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1361115527p2/6563633.jpg] and this series just keeps getting better and better! This book picks up right where book three left off with the kiss, Edmund's army ready to strike, and Ilyan preparing for the final battle. But what about poor Joclyn?
After being trapped in hell for two weeks (which equated to about 80 days for her) in Cail's mind, Joclyn is emotionally broken. She doesn't speak with anyone but Ilyan and even that is not out loud. She cringes at any and all sound. She can't even face Ryland without wanting to kill him. How will she be the Silny?
This installment truly showed what Joclyn is made of. There is such character growth as she overcomes her struggles from being trapped and as she faces her destiny. We see her learn to control her magic in a way that she couldn't before and we also see her reconcile with events from her past.
Everything in this book leads up to the final battle and culminates with Ilyan and Joclyn fighting side by side.
My only complaint about this book is that it is told exclusively from Joclyn's POV. After reading Scorched Treachery I was hoping to see more from Ilyan's POV and Wyn's, maybe even Ryland's or Edmund's but alas that is not the case. This really doesn't hurt the book/series/plot at all, but I was disappointed all the same.
However the author seems to be making up for that disappoint in one of her latest blog posts, she announced that she will be releasing a short story told from Wyn's and Thom's POV! I'm so excited about this. (Click here to view post.)
Again I must give props to this author for keeping it a clean read. Not too many YA authors doing this nowadays and it is refreshing! This book will not disappoint if you are a fan of the series. It is suspenseful and romantic with lots of mystery about the characters' fates. Can't wait for Dawn of Ash.....hurry up July!!!
So very good!
Soul of Flame is the fourth installment in the Imdalind Series by [a:Rebecca Ethington|6563633|Rebecca Ethington|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1361115527p2/6563633.jpg] and this series just keeps getting better and better! This book picks up right where book three left off with the kiss, Edmund's army ready to strike, and Ilyan preparing for the final battle. But what about poor Joclyn?
After being trapped in hell for two weeks (which equated to about 80 days for her) in Cail's mind, Joclyn is emotionally broken. She doesn't speak with anyone but Ilyan and even that is not out loud. She cringes at any and all sound. She can't even face Ryland without wanting to kill him. How will she be the Silny?
This installment truly showed what Joclyn is made of. There is such character growth as she overcomes her struggles from being trapped and as she faces her destiny. We see her learn to control her magic in a way that she couldn't before and we also see her reconcile with events from her past.
Everything in this book leads up to the final battle and culminates with Ilyan and Joclyn fighting side by side.
My only complaint about this book is that it is told exclusively from Joclyn's POV. After reading Scorched Treachery I was hoping to see more from Ilyan's POV and Wyn's, maybe even Ryland's or Edmund's but alas that is not the case. This really doesn't hurt the book/series/plot at all, but I was disappointed all the same.
However the author seems to be making up for that disappoint in one of her latest blog posts, she announced that she will be releasing a short story told from Wyn's and Thom's POV! I'm so excited about this. (Click here to view post.)
Again I must give props to this author for keeping it a clean read. Not too many YA authors doing this nowadays and it is refreshing! This book will not disappoint if you are a fan of the series. It is suspenseful and romantic with lots of mystery about the characters' fates. Can't wait for Dawn of Ash.....hurry up July!!!
Angelfire by Hanna Peach
Angelfire the first book of the Dark Angel series by [a:Hanna Peach|6586877|Hanna Peach|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1353805982p2/6586877.jpg] took me on such a wonderful adventure, full of suspense, twists and turns, and new romance. This series starts with a demon meeting a seraph in a bar called Purgatory, but they are being watched, spied on by another. This prologue hooked me. Then we are introduced to Alyx, the main character who is a lightwarrior for Michaelea, a seraphim city. Alyx is bonded to a mortal Israel. It is her job to protect him at all costs because a bond such as this means that he is destined for something great. But is Alyx up for the challenge? Who can she trust?
I must say I loved the characters in this novel. Written in third person limited POV, we get a chance to see not only the main character's feelings and what she is thinking but also the other characters. The author does a wonderful job of transitioning into these different POVs with chapter breaks and the way in which it is written tells me the author knows her characters because each one has a distinct personality. Not once when I was reading from Israel's POV did I forget and think I was in Alyx's POV, the writing is just enough different that it helps to define the characters' personalities which is a wonderful achievement!
Alyx is our main character and she is a strong-willed, unsanctioned lightwarrior who, by no fault of her own, bounced from home to home until being taken in by her flock leader Symon. Basically she was an orphan and because of this she has many insecurities about herself, mainly around love and people leaving. I loved watching this character's struggles and I can see just how much she will grow in this series.
Israel is a mortal or is he more? Alyx started having visions, seeing things that Israel was seeing and experiencing as it happened. Israel is a complex character. Also an orphan, he has some of the same insecurities that Alyx has and continually pushes her away when she gets too close.
Not only are the characters great, but the world-building is outstanding! I was sucked right into the Seraphim City, the Purgatory bar, and the mortal world that is caught in-between the demon/seraphim war. Things were described in such detail that I could picture it in my mind. Probably my favorite though is Israel's home when we first meet him, it is an abandoned theater. The descriptions were so good that I felt like I could smell the musty, rotting seat cushions!
So why four stars and not five? Well after the hook in the prologue, we get dropped right in the middle of a scene with Alyx and Symon and I found myself confused. It wasn't until three or four chapters later that things became clear for me and I became interested in the story again. However after that initial confusion I was hooked. I spent the entire weekend reading this series and loved every minute of it!
This story has a little of everything. Angels and demons, magic (through their blood ink), pirates (yes and I loved them!!!). Action-packed, suspenseful, and heartbreakingly romantic at times, I can't wait for the next one!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
4.0
More than anything the path of destiny takes great courage, not the greatest gifts or skill. -Mayrekk
Angelfire the first book of the Dark Angel series by [a:Hanna Peach|6586877|Hanna Peach|https://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/authors/1353805982p2/6586877.jpg] took me on such a wonderful adventure, full of suspense, twists and turns, and new romance. This series starts with a demon meeting a seraph in a bar called Purgatory, but they are being watched, spied on by another. This prologue hooked me. Then we are introduced to Alyx, the main character who is a lightwarrior for Michaelea, a seraphim city. Alyx is bonded to a mortal Israel. It is her job to protect him at all costs because a bond such as this means that he is destined for something great. But is Alyx up for the challenge? Who can she trust?
Who was this killer? Who was this Rogue? Why could she now feel his presence with her? Why could she hear the strands of his thoughts on her mind like a ghostly melody? Why was she so damn connected to him?
I must say I loved the characters in this novel. Written in third person limited POV, we get a chance to see not only the main character's feelings and what she is thinking but also the other characters. The author does a wonderful job of transitioning into these different POVs with chapter breaks and the way in which it is written tells me the author knows her characters because each one has a distinct personality. Not once when I was reading from Israel's POV did I forget and think I was in Alyx's POV, the writing is just enough different that it helps to define the characters' personalities which is a wonderful achievement!
Alyx is our main character and she is a strong-willed, unsanctioned lightwarrior who, by no fault of her own, bounced from home to home until being taken in by her flock leader Symon. Basically she was an orphan and because of this she has many insecurities about herself, mainly around love and people leaving. I loved watching this character's struggles and I can see just how much she will grow in this series.
Israel is a mortal or is he more? Alyx started having visions, seeing things that Israel was seeing and experiencing as it happened. Israel is a complex character. Also an orphan, he has some of the same insecurities that Alyx has and continually pushes her away when she gets too close.
Not only are the characters great, but the world-building is outstanding! I was sucked right into the Seraphim City, the Purgatory bar, and the mortal world that is caught in-between the demon/seraphim war. Things were described in such detail that I could picture it in my mind. Probably my favorite though is Israel's home when we first meet him, it is an abandoned theater. The descriptions were so good that I felt like I could smell the musty, rotting seat cushions!
So why four stars and not five? Well after the hook in the prologue, we get dropped right in the middle of a scene with Alyx and Symon and I found myself confused. It wasn't until three or four chapters later that things became clear for me and I became interested in the story again. However after that initial confusion I was hooked. I spent the entire weekend reading this series and loved every minute of it!
This story has a little of everything. Angels and demons, magic (through their blood ink), pirates (yes and I loved them!!!). Action-packed, suspenseful, and heartbreakingly romantic at times, I can't wait for the next one!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Angelstone by Hanna Peach
5.0
Wow!!! Just.....I don't even know what to say!!!!
Angelstone picks up right where book one left off. Alyx with Jordan's help has rescued Israel and the mysterious girl Mini from Michael's hollows. Israel and Alyx have decided to be "just friends" (as if that's even possible!!!). This story does not disappoint!
I'm always leery about sequels. Usually they fall short of the first book, but this one does not! The action and suspense immediately pick up with Samyara leaving bodies for Alyx and Israel with their names burned onto them (a little homage to Israel doing this to the Darkened when looking for his friend Adere). Jordan takes them to a Rogue society for help and guidance. With the help of new friends (Tobias, Lucas, Ana, Dianne, and Vix), Alyx and Israel determine how to find the Black Stone before Samyara can use it to make more weapons.
I loved the growth we see in Israel during this book. At the beginning he feels unworthy of Alyx and her love for him which is why he let her go without a fight at the end of book one. But as he finds out things about himself that Alyx knew and kept from him, his anger gets control of him. With the help of an unlikely friend, he finds control over this anger and his newfound abilities. His transformation from unworthy to wanting and feeling he can be Alyx's equal is heart wrenching and a much needed emotional journey for this character.
During book one, the author established how hard it was for Alyx to trust others. During this book, she must learn to trust if she is going to fulfill her job as Guardian. And it's not just other Rogues, she must learn to trust herself, Israel, and a demon.
This book is heartbreaking as we see what happens to Alyx and Israel's relationship. Between the two of them finding out who they are (Alyx who she is without the Seraphim society and Israel as he deals with his heritage) separately and how they can't live without the other it's an emotional roller coaster, at least for Alyx. Alyx's insecurities leave her feeling like she is not loved when Israel loves her more than himself and feels he does not deserve her. And then the dreaded love triangle begins with Jordan.....I must say I didn't like this at all! I despise love triangles as I feel it's a cop-out for bringing conflict in a relationship. At least it's one-sided and Alyx does not reciprocate.
The suspense and action of this book left me holding my breath. I couldn't read fast enough to find out just what was going to happen to these characters. Are some things predictable? Yes and no. I'll let you read and decide that for yourself.
Can't wait to start in on book three! This author definitely knows how to leave you hanging and begging for more!!!!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Angelstone picks up right where book one left off. Alyx with Jordan's help has rescued Israel and the mysterious girl Mini from Michael's hollows. Israel and Alyx have decided to be "just friends" (as if that's even possible!!!). This story does not disappoint!
I'm always leery about sequels. Usually they fall short of the first book, but this one does not! The action and suspense immediately pick up with Samyara leaving bodies for Alyx and Israel with their names burned onto them (a little homage to Israel doing this to the Darkened when looking for his friend Adere). Jordan takes them to a Rogue society for help and guidance. With the help of new friends (Tobias, Lucas, Ana, Dianne, and Vix), Alyx and Israel determine how to find the Black Stone before Samyara can use it to make more weapons.
I loved the growth we see in Israel during this book. At the beginning he feels unworthy of Alyx and her love for him which is why he let her go without a fight at the end of book one. But as he finds out things about himself that Alyx knew and kept from him, his anger gets control of him. With the help of an unlikely friend, he finds control over this anger and his newfound abilities. His transformation from unworthy to wanting and feeling he can be Alyx's equal is heart wrenching and a much needed emotional journey for this character.
Don't judge me for what I am. -Balthazar
During book one, the author established how hard it was for Alyx to trust others. During this book, she must learn to trust if she is going to fulfill her job as Guardian. And it's not just other Rogues, she must learn to trust herself, Israel, and a demon.
"We need to talk," he said.
The four worst words of any language. Except maybe for "I love her instead" or "he dies, you die." -Alyx
This book is heartbreaking as we see what happens to Alyx and Israel's relationship. Between the two of them finding out who they are (Alyx who she is without the Seraphim society and Israel as he deals with his heritage) separately and how they can't live without the other it's an emotional roller coaster, at least for Alyx. Alyx's insecurities leave her feeling like she is not loved when Israel loves her more than himself and feels he does not deserve her. And then the dreaded love triangle begins with Jordan.....I must say I didn't like this at all! I despise love triangles as I feel it's a cop-out for bringing conflict in a relationship. At least it's one-sided and Alyx does not reciprocate.
The suspense and action of this book left me holding my breath. I couldn't read fast enough to find out just what was going to happen to these characters. Are some things predictable? Yes and no. I'll let you read and decide that for yourself.
Can't wait to start in on book three! This author definitely knows how to leave you hanging and begging for more!!!!
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.