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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2572 KP) rated Nine Lives and Alibis in Books
Oct 4, 2023
Murder Old and New Haunts This Halloween
This October, Daybreak Island is trying to put on a Halloween festival to extend tourist season, and Maddie James has been roped into helping with it. The main draw is going to be celebrity psychic Balfour, who was raised on the island but hasn't been back since he made it big. Some are hoping he can solve a pair of forty year old cases, but Maddie doesn't put much stock into psychics. Then a murder happens. Are there modern motives for the murder? Or do the past crimes have to do with the modern killing?
Those looking for a quick murder will be disappointed here. Yes, I did feel there were some pacing issues, but for the most part, I found the book did a good job of introducing suspects and motives before the murder happened. I did figure one thing out early, but the rest was still a surprise. I didn't appreciate the emphasis on psychics in the book, but the rest of the Halloween events in the book were fun, making it perfect for this time of year. (And yes, I do realize that issue is all mine.) Fans of the author's Full Moon Mysteries will enjoy seeing a couple of those characters show up here. As a series fan, I definitely enjoyed seeing the characters again, and want to see how some new beginnings impact the next book in the series. There's still time to add this book to your October reading list, and if you enjoy Halloween set cozies, you'll be glad you did.
Those looking for a quick murder will be disappointed here. Yes, I did feel there were some pacing issues, but for the most part, I found the book did a good job of introducing suspects and motives before the murder happened. I did figure one thing out early, but the rest was still a surprise. I didn't appreciate the emphasis on psychics in the book, but the rest of the Halloween events in the book were fun, making it perfect for this time of year. (And yes, I do realize that issue is all mine.) Fans of the author's Full Moon Mysteries will enjoy seeing a couple of those characters show up here. As a series fan, I definitely enjoyed seeing the characters again, and want to see how some new beginnings impact the next book in the series. There's still time to add this book to your October reading list, and if you enjoy Halloween set cozies, you'll be glad you did.
Merissa (14013 KP) rated Cycled (Gold Hockey #13) in Books
Oct 18, 2021 (Updated Jul 12, 2023)
CYCLED is the thirteenth book in the Gold Hockey series but you can read it as a standalone as I have.
Scar has had her own issues to deal with, both in personal and work relationships. So when she starts to fall for Kaydon, she does everything in her power to avoid him. This, in turn, leads him to think she dislikes him. When circumstances arise that prove she likes him, Kaydon isn't about to take no for an answer, unless it truly is something she doesn't want. With his coaxing, Scar is able to overcome her past traumas, and realise just how good a catch she actually is.
Although this is written from both perspectives, I would say this is more Scar's book than Kaydon's, simply because he is the one with a loving family, whereas hers are a bit... different! Her brother, Charlie, has his own story to tell and, lucky me, is next! The relationship Scar has with him is completely different to that of her parents, and was wonderful and warm.
There is some fantastic dialogue in this book, that will make you smile, make you laugh, and even make you want to cry. Watching Scar take a stand was sheer poetry in motion.
A brilliant addition to the series that I have no hesitation in recommending.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 18, 2021
Scar has had her own issues to deal with, both in personal and work relationships. So when she starts to fall for Kaydon, she does everything in her power to avoid him. This, in turn, leads him to think she dislikes him. When circumstances arise that prove she likes him, Kaydon isn't about to take no for an answer, unless it truly is something she doesn't want. With his coaxing, Scar is able to overcome her past traumas, and realise just how good a catch she actually is.
Although this is written from both perspectives, I would say this is more Scar's book than Kaydon's, simply because he is the one with a loving family, whereas hers are a bit... different! Her brother, Charlie, has his own story to tell and, lucky me, is next! The relationship Scar has with him is completely different to that of her parents, and was wonderful and warm.
There is some fantastic dialogue in this book, that will make you smile, make you laugh, and even make you want to cry. Watching Scar take a stand was sheer poetry in motion.
A brilliant addition to the series that I have no hesitation in recommending.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Oct 18, 2021
Merissa (14013 KP) rated Smith's Corner: Layla & Levi (The Heartwood Series #2) in Books
Aug 27, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
SMITH'S CORNER: LAYLA & LEVI is the second book in the Heartwood series. This time, the focus is on Layla, Delilah's mum, and so we learn her past and the secrets she was hiding in book one.
Trust me when I say this is not easy reading. There is a trigger warning for a reason. There is nothing graphic but what is there, made my stomach churn. I really felt for Layla. Levi is just as much of a sweetheart as Dallas is. He knows he was in the wrong at their first meeting, and does everything he can to prove he is the right man for Layla and Cora. And I say both because, in Levi's mind, they are a complete package.
There are some very funny moments in this story, plus others that are heartbreaking. I loved how the story came out and the various reactions. The bachelor/bachelorette parties were hysterical, and the wedding was gorgeous.
Ash and Alora are next and I really can't wait for their story. In fact, I can't wait for ALL the stories, but I will be content with one at a time.
A fantastic addition to the series that I am thoroughly enjoying. I have no hesitation in recommending this book, but I would suggest you read them in order, just to get the full enjoyment out of all the characters.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 27, 2021
Trust me when I say this is not easy reading. There is a trigger warning for a reason. There is nothing graphic but what is there, made my stomach churn. I really felt for Layla. Levi is just as much of a sweetheart as Dallas is. He knows he was in the wrong at their first meeting, and does everything he can to prove he is the right man for Layla and Cora. And I say both because, in Levi's mind, they are a complete package.
There are some very funny moments in this story, plus others that are heartbreaking. I loved how the story came out and the various reactions. The bachelor/bachelorette parties were hysterical, and the wedding was gorgeous.
Ash and Alora are next and I really can't wait for their story. In fact, I can't wait for ALL the stories, but I will be content with one at a time.
A fantastic addition to the series that I am thoroughly enjoying. I have no hesitation in recommending this book, but I would suggest you read them in order, just to get the full enjoyment out of all the characters.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 27, 2021
Merissa (14013 KP) rated Crossing The Line (KTS #2) in Books
Mar 22, 2021 (Updated Aug 2, 2023)
CROSSING THE LINE is the second book in the KTS series, and I would really recommend you read it as part of a series, rather than a standalone. You 'could' but it does have an overall story arc, and besides, book one is amazing.
Ollie and Linc are both doctors, both dedicated to saving lives. Ollie has an attraction to Linc, but he shot her down in flames, so she has hidden it behind sarcasm. Linc has finally reached a place where he feels okay to tell her about what happened, and why he reacted that way but, unfortunately for him, they both get blown up before he can tell Ollie his story.
*Sigh* I loved Linc. After all, how many women WOULDN'T want a man who pays attention? I could understand his reasoning, and so could Ollie. And that's part of what draws me into these books. There is drama and angst, but none of it is unnecessary, and all of it moves the story along.
The story arc moves along nicely, and I must say, Daniel has more lives than a cat! I am loving where this is taking me, and I can't wait to read more. The action is smoothly paced, and we get to see Ava and Dan from book one too. This definitely leaves you wanting more. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 22, 2021
Ollie and Linc are both doctors, both dedicated to saving lives. Ollie has an attraction to Linc, but he shot her down in flames, so she has hidden it behind sarcasm. Linc has finally reached a place where he feels okay to tell her about what happened, and why he reacted that way but, unfortunately for him, they both get blown up before he can tell Ollie his story.
*Sigh* I loved Linc. After all, how many women WOULDN'T want a man who pays attention? I could understand his reasoning, and so could Ollie. And that's part of what draws me into these books. There is drama and angst, but none of it is unnecessary, and all of it moves the story along.
The story arc moves along nicely, and I must say, Daniel has more lives than a cat! I am loving where this is taking me, and I can't wait to read more. The action is smoothly paced, and we get to see Ava and Dan from book one too. This definitely leaves you wanting more. Absolutely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 22, 2021
Merissa (14013 KP) rated The Omega Lesson (Billionaires in Heat #2) in Books
Aug 10, 2023
THE OMEGA LESSON is the second book in the Billionaires in Heat series and you can read it as a standalone, although Maddie and Finn Visser from book one are either mentioned or make an appearance.
Lexi is up against the odds in pretty much everything - working in an Old Boys' school, being abandoned by her family, and having an ex who is a complete jerk. Mattie is the first one we meet and he is a couple of years younger than Lexi. I loved these two! They were so hot but also so caring and protective of each other. One by one, the others appear and we learn more about their past (and how Maddie was involved.) They all suffered and dealt with it in their own ways, but it's only when Lexi appears that they pull together. And I also loved the description they gave her - their North Star.
I thoroughly enjoyed book one and love the world it is set in. This one, I enjoyed more but I still can't quite push to 5 stars. I would have liked a little more from Travis and also a little more of Bree and the interactions with the rest of the pack.
I look forward to reading more in this series and finding out more about Finn Visser! Absolutely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 10, 2023
Lexi is up against the odds in pretty much everything - working in an Old Boys' school, being abandoned by her family, and having an ex who is a complete jerk. Mattie is the first one we meet and he is a couple of years younger than Lexi. I loved these two! They were so hot but also so caring and protective of each other. One by one, the others appear and we learn more about their past (and how Maddie was involved.) They all suffered and dealt with it in their own ways, but it's only when Lexi appears that they pull together. And I also loved the description they gave her - their North Star.
I thoroughly enjoyed book one and love the world it is set in. This one, I enjoyed more but I still can't quite push to 5 stars. I would have liked a little more from Travis and also a little more of Bree and the interactions with the rest of the pack.
I look forward to reading more in this series and finding out more about Finn Visser! Absolutely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 10, 2023
Merissa (14013 KP) rated French Kiss (Flying into Love #1) by C.F. White in Books
Jun 1, 2022 (Updated Jun 13, 2023)
FRENCH KISS is the first book in the Flying Into Love series and, as the title suggests, the first country we land in is France. We have a tale of opposites as our two main characters try to figure out how to move forward.
It really is an opposites attract book! You have city vs. country, England vs. France, city slicker vs. lumberjack, and even easy-to-like vs. hard-to-like. Valentin saved this book for me as Dale was a little too contrary for me. He held onto his secret past for reasons, although explained, that still doesn't make 100% sense to me. He was completely self-centred and quick to jump to conclusions. Valentin, however, was a hardworking drifter with a strong work and personal ethic who wanted nothing more than to put down some roots. He managed to do that for a while caring for Dale's dad but that is in question with Dale wanting to sell the place.
The pacing was smooth, the story was sweet, and the bedroom scenes were steamy! The best bit for me was the descriptions of the cottage, plus the storm. It does make me laugh though as everyone in the city wants to 'escape to the country' and those who live there, usually want out.
An enjoyable read and I look forward to more stories in this series. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 28, 2022
It really is an opposites attract book! You have city vs. country, England vs. France, city slicker vs. lumberjack, and even easy-to-like vs. hard-to-like. Valentin saved this book for me as Dale was a little too contrary for me. He held onto his secret past for reasons, although explained, that still doesn't make 100% sense to me. He was completely self-centred and quick to jump to conclusions. Valentin, however, was a hardworking drifter with a strong work and personal ethic who wanted nothing more than to put down some roots. He managed to do that for a while caring for Dale's dad but that is in question with Dale wanting to sell the place.
The pacing was smooth, the story was sweet, and the bedroom scenes were steamy! The best bit for me was the descriptions of the cottage, plus the storm. It does make me laugh though as everyone in the city wants to 'escape to the country' and those who live there, usually want out.
An enjoyable read and I look forward to more stories in this series. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 28, 2022
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Scattering (The Outliers, #2) in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Note that this review may (will) have spoilers if you haven't read the first book in McCreight's Outliers series.
Now that we pick up with the second book, Wylie and Jasper have escaped the camp in Maine. But they are both deeply affected by what happened there, especially Cassie's death--each feels guilty in their own way. Further, Wylie is still coming to terms with her ability as an Outlier--to read people's thoughts and emotions--and what it means for real life. She's getting better with her skill, but does that mean it's also of value to others in the community or the military? It seems like the answer is yes, especially when Wylie gets picked up by the police and taken to a local hospital. There, on an isolated wing, she finds a group of girls similar to herself. She's convinced she's among other Outliers, but they are under heavy security and Wylie senses something is amiss. She has to get the girls (and herself) to safety--before it's too late.
So, I read the first book in this series, [b:The Outliers|26116473|The Outliers (The Outliers, #1)|Kimberly McCreight|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1450363086s/26116473.jpg|40782926], back in March 2016 and enjoyed it, but the Outlier storyline took some getting used to. I found the second novel to be far more enjoyable, as I was now prepared for the start for the story to revolve around Wylie, her Outlier abilities, and the fact that shadowy Government forces seem to be involved in seeking the Outliers and potentially having some control over their abilities. Probably my only complaint with this novel--and it actually has nothing really to do with the book itself, is that it's a little jumpy and confusing. Most of this would probably be resolved if I had a better memory, as a lot of the book relies on what happened in the first novel. I am not sure that you could just jump into this series without reading the first book--as I have <i>actually read</i> said first book and was still confused a few times and had to go back to my previous review to remind myself what happened.
Otherwise, this is a really exciting book, and I found it a great change of pace from some of the usual thrillers and other fare that I've been reading lately. If you're prepared for the plot (maybe suspend a little disbelief), it's a fast-paced read, and I often found myself lamenting when I couldn't read it. The novel is full of twists and turns, and it constantly keeps you guessing. McCreight has created a strong character in Wylie: she's tough and willing to fight for herself and those around her, even as she struggles with her own anxiety and the fact that she's an Outlier. Most of the novel focuses on Wylie, and she can hold her own. We meet some new characters in this one--all of whom add to the intricacy of the story--and some familiar faces from the first book pop up: many of whom will surprise (and confuse) you.
Overall, I think McCreight is coming into her own with this series. As far as I can tell, this is going to be a trilogy, and often, the second book in a trilogy can lag a bit, but not so here. Also, this one ends with a major cliffhanger (so much waiting for resolution!), and I'm fascinated to see how McCreight will resolve everything in just one book! But I'll definitely be reading it the moment it comes out!
You can read my review of book one in the series, THE OUTLIERS, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1518275530?book_show_action=false&from_review_page=1">here</a>;.
<center><a href="http://justacatandabookatherside.blogspot.com/">Blog</a>; ~ <a href="https://twitter.com/mwcmoto">Twitter</a>; ~ <a href="https://www.facebook.com/justacatandabook/">Facebook</a>; ~ <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+KristyHamiltonbooks">Google+</a>; ~ <a href="https://www.instagram.com/justacatandabook/">Instagram</a>; </center>
Now that we pick up with the second book, Wylie and Jasper have escaped the camp in Maine. But they are both deeply affected by what happened there, especially Cassie's death--each feels guilty in their own way. Further, Wylie is still coming to terms with her ability as an Outlier--to read people's thoughts and emotions--and what it means for real life. She's getting better with her skill, but does that mean it's also of value to others in the community or the military? It seems like the answer is yes, especially when Wylie gets picked up by the police and taken to a local hospital. There, on an isolated wing, she finds a group of girls similar to herself. She's convinced she's among other Outliers, but they are under heavy security and Wylie senses something is amiss. She has to get the girls (and herself) to safety--before it's too late.
So, I read the first book in this series, [b:The Outliers|26116473|The Outliers (The Outliers, #1)|Kimberly McCreight|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1450363086s/26116473.jpg|40782926], back in March 2016 and enjoyed it, but the Outlier storyline took some getting used to. I found the second novel to be far more enjoyable, as I was now prepared for the start for the story to revolve around Wylie, her Outlier abilities, and the fact that shadowy Government forces seem to be involved in seeking the Outliers and potentially having some control over their abilities. Probably my only complaint with this novel--and it actually has nothing really to do with the book itself, is that it's a little jumpy and confusing. Most of this would probably be resolved if I had a better memory, as a lot of the book relies on what happened in the first novel. I am not sure that you could just jump into this series without reading the first book--as I have <i>actually read</i> said first book and was still confused a few times and had to go back to my previous review to remind myself what happened.
Otherwise, this is a really exciting book, and I found it a great change of pace from some of the usual thrillers and other fare that I've been reading lately. If you're prepared for the plot (maybe suspend a little disbelief), it's a fast-paced read, and I often found myself lamenting when I couldn't read it. The novel is full of twists and turns, and it constantly keeps you guessing. McCreight has created a strong character in Wylie: she's tough and willing to fight for herself and those around her, even as she struggles with her own anxiety and the fact that she's an Outlier. Most of the novel focuses on Wylie, and she can hold her own. We meet some new characters in this one--all of whom add to the intricacy of the story--and some familiar faces from the first book pop up: many of whom will surprise (and confuse) you.
Overall, I think McCreight is coming into her own with this series. As far as I can tell, this is going to be a trilogy, and often, the second book in a trilogy can lag a bit, but not so here. Also, this one ends with a major cliffhanger (so much waiting for resolution!), and I'm fascinated to see how McCreight will resolve everything in just one book! But I'll definitely be reading it the moment it comes out!
You can read my review of book one in the series, THE OUTLIERS, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1518275530?book_show_action=false&from_review_page=1">here</a>;.
<center><a href="http://justacatandabookatherside.blogspot.com/">Blog</a>; ~ <a href="https://twitter.com/mwcmoto">Twitter</a>; ~ <a href="https://www.facebook.com/justacatandabook/">Facebook</a>; ~ <a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/+KristyHamiltonbooks">Google+</a>; ~ <a href="https://www.instagram.com/justacatandabook/">Instagram</a>; </center>
Christine A. (965 KP) rated Through the Storm (The Solar Storms #1) in Books
Dec 9, 2018
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
There have been countless books written about what would happen if a catastrophic event shut down all electronics on Earth. Usually they are set well after the event occurred. "Through the Storm (The Solar Storms #1)", however, starts just before the event and shows how fast civilization as we know it would collapse. The story follows a family of a father and his two sons and their ensuing struggle. Neal Evans, the father still grieving over the death of his wife, is at a conference and Connor, the oldest son, is away from home hunting when the event occurs. Drake, a high school freshman, is home alone on the farm and does not realize anything is wrong until hours after the event. I had not really considered how fast people would panic and therefore how fast the situation would turn dangerous. Kyle Pratt's style moves the story quickly but includes enough detail to keep readers caring about the Evans family's survival. This book is the first in the "Solar Storms" series. Its publication date was September 2017 and no date has been announced for other books in the series. Pratt's other series is called "Strengthen What Remains" and has concluded.
There have been countless books written about what would happen if a catastrophic event shut down all electronics on Earth. Usually they are set well after the event occurred. "Through the Storm (The Solar Storms #1)", however, starts just before the event and shows how fast civilization as we know it would collapse. The story follows a family of a father and his two sons and their ensuing struggle. Neal Evans, the father still grieving over the death of his wife, is at a conference and Connor, the oldest son, is away from home hunting when the event occurs. Drake, a high school freshman, is home alone on the farm and does not realize anything is wrong until hours after the event. I had not really considered how fast people would panic and therefore how fast the situation would turn dangerous. Kyle Pratt's style moves the story quickly but includes enough detail to keep readers caring about the Evans family's survival. This book is the first in the "Solar Storms" series. Its publication date was September 2017 and no date has been announced for other books in the series. Pratt's other series is called "Strengthen What Remains" and has concluded.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated An Hour Unspent (Shadows Over England, #3) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Every book in this series has completely blown me away. And through it all, I have been LONGING for more about Barclay. I was so ecstatic when I found out Roseanna White would be featuring him in the final book of the series. Now, don't get me wrong, Evelina is the perfect match for him, and I enjoyed her story too...But BARCLAY...SWOON...
He truly deserves the title of "Swoon Worthy". From the care for his family to his undercover work, to learning about his childhood...Your heart will ache, cheer, and be encouraged. The author has created a whole world of people that carve out their own place in your heart. There is no going back once you dive into this realm.
True to her style, Roseanna seamlessly weaves faith, love, and bit of mystery into this story. Set in the midst of The Great War, this is the perfect story for anyone who loves Downton Abbey or WWI history. Or maybe, you are looking for something new-to-you. You won't go wrong with this series. Start with A Name Unknown and fall in love with Rosie and Peter first!
I received a complimentary copy of An Hour Unspent. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
He truly deserves the title of "Swoon Worthy". From the care for his family to his undercover work, to learning about his childhood...Your heart will ache, cheer, and be encouraged. The author has created a whole world of people that carve out their own place in your heart. There is no going back once you dive into this realm.
True to her style, Roseanna seamlessly weaves faith, love, and bit of mystery into this story. Set in the midst of The Great War, this is the perfect story for anyone who loves Downton Abbey or WWI history. Or maybe, you are looking for something new-to-you. You won't go wrong with this series. Start with A Name Unknown and fall in love with Rosie and Peter first!
I received a complimentary copy of An Hour Unspent. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Micky Barnard (542 KP) rated The City of Brass: Daevabad Trilogy in Books
Dec 13, 2018
Interesting start to the series
This was a really colourful and deep entrance to a new fantasy series by a debut author. I read this in a combination of paperback and audio, both were enjoyable. The cast of characters are many with three main contenders that each had me completely interested.
This is a fairly long and complex tale, with the occasional confusing moment that had me switching off audio to refer to the book and names of characters/magic/tribes. The index of these definitions of words was hugely helpful.
The story is full of intrigue, battles, magic, faiths, warring factions, desire and family. Nahri, a lowly girl with special abilities finds herself transported to a city of six dijinn tribes by a very powerful dijinn. Friendships, allegiances and wariness are formed as Nahri finds herself to be special and revered if she can only prove herself. The friendships are strong and central, whilst the budding romances on multiple fronts are subtle. So much happens and life is totally turned upside down by the end. The story is told from multiple POV.
I will definitely by reading the rest of the series, but I suspect the complexity will mean a re-read so that I can pick up book two. I highly recommend the audio, with superb narration.
This is a fairly long and complex tale, with the occasional confusing moment that had me switching off audio to refer to the book and names of characters/magic/tribes. The index of these definitions of words was hugely helpful.
The story is full of intrigue, battles, magic, faiths, warring factions, desire and family. Nahri, a lowly girl with special abilities finds herself transported to a city of six dijinn tribes by a very powerful dijinn. Friendships, allegiances and wariness are formed as Nahri finds herself to be special and revered if she can only prove herself. The friendships are strong and central, whilst the budding romances on multiple fronts are subtle. So much happens and life is totally turned upside down by the end. The story is told from multiple POV.
I will definitely by reading the rest of the series, but I suspect the complexity will mean a re-read so that I can pick up book two. I highly recommend the audio, with superb narration.