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Into the Dim (Into the Dim, #1)
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
<i>This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Into The Dim</i> by Janet B. Taylor begins with an empty coffin. Fragile sixteen year old Hope is at her mother’s memorial service after her mother’s body was unrecovered after a horrific earthquake. Despite the opinion of her stepfather’s family, Hope is convinced that her mother is still alive. However she has not time to convince anyone before she is shipped off to the Scottish Highlands to spend time with her mother’s sister, Lady Lucinda Carlyle.

Hope finds herself at Christopher Manor, a forbidding ancient mansion that reminds her of <i>Hogwarts</i> (I love that <i>Harry Potter</i> is easily mentioned in many contemporary novels these days! There is also a <i>Doctor Who</i> reference in this book). Despite the old-fashioned setting, the inhabitants are the complete opposite. Firstly there is Phoebe, a bubbly blue-haired girl who is excited about Hope’s arrival at the manor. Phoebe’s brother, Collum, on the other hand, has a contrasting personality. Then there is Lu, who, despite her title, is younger than some may initially imagine her to be.

Through these new characters, Hope learns that her mother is indeed still alive, but trapped somewhere beyond all logic and reason. What is worse, Hope, who is practically scared of her own shadow, along with Phoebe and Collum are the only people who can rescue her. So begins their dangerous but exciting adventure.

<i>Into The Dim</i> is both a contemporary and historical novel, with the science fiction element of time travel thrown in. Time travel is nothing new in fiction, and Taylor’s idea is even based upon the scientist, Nikola Tesla’s discoveries. The storyline itself is a bit of fun with witty characters and humorous banter, yet there is so much more to it than that. Taylor has concocted enough research to help readers to learn something new. Firstly there is Tesla, as already mentioned, and then there is the knowledge and detail of twelfth century London, in particularly involving Eleanor of Aquitaine.

Although the main characters are in their late teens, younger teenagers can also enjoy<i> Into The Dim</i>. There is the occasional reference to mature content, but this is within the context of a historical period, in which younger readers should probably be aware of already from their school history lessons. If you love this book, look out for the sequel next year!
  
The Last Fighting Tommy
The Last Fighting Tommy
Harry Patch | 2018 | History & Politics
7
7.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
The subject this month that was picked for my book club was world war one, I was struggling to find a book to read, and so was lent two books. This one by my mother and war horse by my friend. I chose to read this one, and was honestly a bit dubious about reading it. I have always been more interested in ancient history than modern history and didn't think it would agree with me. However I couldn't put this book down, the way it is written makes you feel like you are sat with Harry, listening to him tell his stories, and for me it us unusual to read about someone that didn't want to go to war. Also reading about his life, and the things he did before the war and after it....well what and interesting man and definitely full of character. I hope his story lives on for a long time to come.
  
The Rules of Enchantment
The Rules of Enchantment
Wendy Tardieu | 2020 | Erotica, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy
8
9.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
The Rules of Enchantment is a steamy fantasy story where good and bad aren't always as clear-cut as you might imagine. It reminded me of a mixture between Harry Potter and Robin of Sherwood - and that is not a bad thing!

Leith and Kyler make for excellent main characters, superbly supported by Rowan. The world-building was wonderful, giving the reader enough information to be able to navigate through the world without it just being an overload of information.

I don't know if this is going to be a series or not but I sincerely hope it is. I would love for Rowan to have his story! And I still need more from Leith and Kyler.

This was a brilliant fantasy story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.

* 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!
  
The Wise Man&#039;s Fear
The Wise Man's Fear
Patrick Rothfuss | 2015 | Fiction & Poetry
10
9.4 (17 Ratings)
Book Rating
every time I stopped reading a just breathed the words "I love this book" (4 more)
Great characters
interesting things happen
I love the descriptions of the cultures and the customs of exotic locations
the world building
the third book isn't written yet..... not that I would rush it and get Game of Thones level endings (0 more)
Best book I've read in 5 years.... most fun I've had reading since Ready Player One
If I were to write a full review it would be full of flowery language, and you would probably smile and think I'm over indulging in praise. Only those who haven't read it can ever have the privilege of reading it for the first time ever again.... it is only a matter of time before this is a move in the fashion of lord of the rings or harry potter, and damn I hope it's just as good. I will definately re-read this series, and it's not something I do. I'm the always on to the next one type reader...