Search
Hazel (1853 KP) rated Blood and Stars in Books
Sep 24, 2017
Children's Fantasy
This eBook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Finally, after leaving everyone on tenterhooks, the fifth book in the Legend of Rhyme series is here. Blood and Stars by Jaime Lee Mann continues on from the tense ending to book four, finally resolving a lot of loose ends. With all the favourite characters from the series, this book transports readers back into the fantasy world of Coraira for more adventure and magic.
Blood and Stars is split into four stories, which eventually all merge together in an explosive climax. Firstly, as expected, the main characters, twins Ariana and Asher, have found themselves separated from each other once again. With Ariana destined to rule Coraira, legend suggests that Asher will be the opposite – a ruler of darkness. But, is there a chance he can be saved from this fate? Meanwhile, the present ruler of Coraira is dying. The only person who could potentially save Calla is her evil twin sister Elora, the infamous witch in the previous books. Can she be trusted enough with such an important task?
Concurrently, in the ethereal world of the mermaids, readers are reintroduced to the mer-queen, Starla and her apprentice, Teagan. Abandoned at birth, Teagan is hoping to discover what happened to her parents; however, her curiosity leads her into the lair of a sea witch. Be that as it may, some dangerous situations result in silver linings.
Eventually, with the majority of the book already concluded, another character is brought back into the story. Grimblerod is still under the curse of an evil king, but he now has hope that it can be broken. As long as his love for Freya does not fail, Grimblerod’s patient determination will lead him back to where he belongs.
With a mix of new and old characters, Jaime Lee Mann smoothly draws her fans back into the storyline with a (mostly) happy ending. There are a couple of things left incomplete, but nothing that will majorly irritate readers. There is no dreaded cliffhanger.
As it may have been some time since children read the last book, or parents and teachers are only just being introduced to the story, the author has provided an in-depth character guide in the end pages to bring everyone up to speed.
Blood and Stars was a more straightforward story than previous books. It resolved more issues than it created. There will be a final book coming (hopefully) soon, but there is no way of guessing what it will feature.
Legend of Rhyme is a series suitable for girls and boys. Mildly scary in parts, the adventure of the twins and their companions will entertain children and their parents. With discussion questions at the end, the books make readers think more about the storyline and help them to understand and interact with the narrative. This is certainly a series for young fantasy lovers.
Finally, after leaving everyone on tenterhooks, the fifth book in the Legend of Rhyme series is here. Blood and Stars by Jaime Lee Mann continues on from the tense ending to book four, finally resolving a lot of loose ends. With all the favourite characters from the series, this book transports readers back into the fantasy world of Coraira for more adventure and magic.
Blood and Stars is split into four stories, which eventually all merge together in an explosive climax. Firstly, as expected, the main characters, twins Ariana and Asher, have found themselves separated from each other once again. With Ariana destined to rule Coraira, legend suggests that Asher will be the opposite – a ruler of darkness. But, is there a chance he can be saved from this fate? Meanwhile, the present ruler of Coraira is dying. The only person who could potentially save Calla is her evil twin sister Elora, the infamous witch in the previous books. Can she be trusted enough with such an important task?
Concurrently, in the ethereal world of the mermaids, readers are reintroduced to the mer-queen, Starla and her apprentice, Teagan. Abandoned at birth, Teagan is hoping to discover what happened to her parents; however, her curiosity leads her into the lair of a sea witch. Be that as it may, some dangerous situations result in silver linings.
Eventually, with the majority of the book already concluded, another character is brought back into the story. Grimblerod is still under the curse of an evil king, but he now has hope that it can be broken. As long as his love for Freya does not fail, Grimblerod’s patient determination will lead him back to where he belongs.
With a mix of new and old characters, Jaime Lee Mann smoothly draws her fans back into the storyline with a (mostly) happy ending. There are a couple of things left incomplete, but nothing that will majorly irritate readers. There is no dreaded cliffhanger.
As it may have been some time since children read the last book, or parents and teachers are only just being introduced to the story, the author has provided an in-depth character guide in the end pages to bring everyone up to speed.
Blood and Stars was a more straightforward story than previous books. It resolved more issues than it created. There will be a final book coming (hopefully) soon, but there is no way of guessing what it will feature.
Legend of Rhyme is a series suitable for girls and boys. Mildly scary in parts, the adventure of the twins and their companions will entertain children and their parents. With discussion questions at the end, the books make readers think more about the storyline and help them to understand and interact with the narrative. This is certainly a series for young fantasy lovers.
Re-Volt Classic
Games
App
Classic online multiplayer racing action! Race radio-controlled cars through the neighborhood and...
Gail (4 KP) rated Undeniable ( Fated #4) in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Undeniable by A.S. Roberts
Four stars
This story had me in tears and ready to throw my phone. How one person can endure so much pain and suffering. Lily is this out of touch young girl who is finally getting some freedom. She wasn’t looking for love but it found her in the form of Jack. Who is a smart guy but is truly a bad boy. I enjoyed this story because it was so raw. The emotions you feel from hearing Lily's pain and all her despair. You don’t just get a happy ever after you get a story full of ups and downs. You get to see the pain and joy that we all experience in everyday life. The author did an amazing job bringing these characters alive. They were given so much depth that this could be based on a true story. I couldn’t get enough of Jack and his bad boy ways that hide his intelligence. I felt really bad for Lily and how she was raised and how little she knew of the outside world. This is a must read the story will have you ready to beat someone for all the injustice.
Four stars
This story had me in tears and ready to throw my phone. How one person can endure so much pain and suffering. Lily is this out of touch young girl who is finally getting some freedom. She wasn’t looking for love but it found her in the form of Jack. Who is a smart guy but is truly a bad boy. I enjoyed this story because it was so raw. The emotions you feel from hearing Lily's pain and all her despair. You don’t just get a happy ever after you get a story full of ups and downs. You get to see the pain and joy that we all experience in everyday life. The author did an amazing job bringing these characters alive. They were given so much depth that this could be based on a true story. I couldn’t get enough of Jack and his bad boy ways that hide his intelligence. I felt really bad for Lily and how she was raised and how little she knew of the outside world. This is a must read the story will have you ready to beat someone for all the injustice.
Gail (4 KP) rated Resisting Redemption in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Resisting Redemption by Amabel Daniels
Four Stars
This is the first story I’ve read from this author and I can say without a doubt that I am hooked. I felt like I was right there with the action and could feel every emotion the characters felt. The characters were flawed and perfect. Roxie has become my favorite character. She is a single mom doing what’s best for her daughter. She gives off this sassy vibe when truly she is just going with the flow. Through the book I expected her to become less sassy and more damsel in distress. But the author didn’t disappoint me. She stayed true to her personality and only gave on things concerning her daughter. The way they portray Grant you would think he was a sexist old man who thought women belonged in the kitchen. Oh no Grant is so much more and down right sexy. He blows me away with his personality and determination to get justice. Some characters I could do without because blah. But these two were just right and baby Lucy too cute. A red head baby if only.
Four Stars
This is the first story I’ve read from this author and I can say without a doubt that I am hooked. I felt like I was right there with the action and could feel every emotion the characters felt. The characters were flawed and perfect. Roxie has become my favorite character. She is a single mom doing what’s best for her daughter. She gives off this sassy vibe when truly she is just going with the flow. Through the book I expected her to become less sassy and more damsel in distress. But the author didn’t disappoint me. She stayed true to her personality and only gave on things concerning her daughter. The way they portray Grant you would think he was a sexist old man who thought women belonged in the kitchen. Oh no Grant is so much more and down right sexy. He blows me away with his personality and determination to get justice. Some characters I could do without because blah. But these two were just right and baby Lucy too cute. A red head baby if only.
Gail (4 KP) rated Only (Alex Conner Chronicles, #3) in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Only: The Alex Connor Chronicles book 3
Four stars
This was an interesting read. Different in a good way. I was confused some what when the scenes changed. But it didn’t take too much away from my enjoyment of this book. I recommend reading the first two books first. I didn’t think about that when I started reading this book. So I was a little lost in the beginning. It’s a lot at first when you just jump right in but I liked it without the knowing the back story. The author offered US something unique and compelling. If you’re interested in other world reading and magic this is a good series for that. Alex is a strong character who is scared to be soft and scared at times. But when it was needed her back was made of steel. I will go back to read the first two books because I would like to know what happened to Justin. Her relationship with Valant is intriguing also. Then there is Ryan. Can you say oh la la. Definitely a series worth picking up to give a try. The authors style was smooth and had a very good dialogue.
Four stars
This was an interesting read. Different in a good way. I was confused some what when the scenes changed. But it didn’t take too much away from my enjoyment of this book. I recommend reading the first two books first. I didn’t think about that when I started reading this book. So I was a little lost in the beginning. It’s a lot at first when you just jump right in but I liked it without the knowing the back story. The author offered US something unique and compelling. If you’re interested in other world reading and magic this is a good series for that. Alex is a strong character who is scared to be soft and scared at times. But when it was needed her back was made of steel. I will go back to read the first two books because I would like to know what happened to Justin. Her relationship with Valant is intriguing also. Then there is Ryan. Can you say oh la la. Definitely a series worth picking up to give a try. The authors style was smooth and had a very good dialogue.
Gail (4 KP) rated Frozen Over in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Frozen Over by Tarrah Anders
Four stars
I was captivated by this story. The loss of control and the need to posse someone. Tyson is a man who knows what he wants and doesn’t hold back because of feelings. He’s into one night stands and wham bam thank you ma'am. He’s an butthole and he doesn’t hide it from those around him. You get 100% honesty and realness. Allison is strong minded and determined. She does beg or cry for attention. She knows her worth and doesn’t settle. When she finally has a career break through she didn’t know it would come with the attention of the CEO. When Tyson first saw her he didn’t know that hell was getting ready to freeze over. I really enjoyed the story. I liked the conversation between the main characters it wasn’t forced or lacking in emotion. You could feel Tyson's struggle with coming to term with his emotions. I really liked that he kept his honesty and didn’t let himself hold back. Great read and I hope there is more to come. This author gave me something new and I hope her writing style only gets better.
Four stars
I was captivated by this story. The loss of control and the need to posse someone. Tyson is a man who knows what he wants and doesn’t hold back because of feelings. He’s into one night stands and wham bam thank you ma'am. He’s an butthole and he doesn’t hide it from those around him. You get 100% honesty and realness. Allison is strong minded and determined. She does beg or cry for attention. She knows her worth and doesn’t settle. When she finally has a career break through she didn’t know it would come with the attention of the CEO. When Tyson first saw her he didn’t know that hell was getting ready to freeze over. I really enjoyed the story. I liked the conversation between the main characters it wasn’t forced or lacking in emotion. You could feel Tyson's struggle with coming to term with his emotions. I really liked that he kept his honesty and didn’t let himself hold back. Great read and I hope there is more to come. This author gave me something new and I hope her writing style only gets better.
Kristin (149 KP) rated Catch Me If You Dare (Jake Mathews, #2) in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Jake Matthews is a US Marshall, and a damn good one, at that. However, a notorious killer by the name of Max Baxter has chosen Jake, by name, to play a part in his little games. Max turned himself in to Jake after the FBI failed to catch him on their own, and now, four years later, he's broken himself out of prison and is on the run again. And guess who's invited to catch him this time?
This story is a real attention-grabber within the first couple chapters. It's also a rather exciting cat-and-mouse game, as we bounce back and forth between Jake and Max, learning about each one from his own eyes as well as from the other's. Max is back at his usual tricks, but he's directly involving Jake for this one, and it will take all the Marshal's training, intelligence, and cunning to not only outsmart the killer but save his victims, as well. Will he succeed, or will Jake be yet another notch on Max's belt? You'll have to find that out for yourself.
4 stars
Jake Matthews is a US Marshall, and a damn good one, at that. However, a notorious killer by the name of Max Baxter has chosen Jake, by name, to play a part in his little games. Max turned himself in to Jake after the FBI failed to catch him on their own, and now, four years later, he's broken himself out of prison and is on the run again. And guess who's invited to catch him this time?
This story is a real attention-grabber within the first couple chapters. It's also a rather exciting cat-and-mouse game, as we bounce back and forth between Jake and Max, learning about each one from his own eyes as well as from the other's. Max is back at his usual tricks, but he's directly involving Jake for this one, and it will take all the Marshal's training, intelligence, and cunning to not only outsmart the killer but save his victims, as well. Will he succeed, or will Jake be yet another notch on Max's belt? You'll have to find that out for yourself.
4 stars
Merissa (12066 KP) rated Bound by Prophecy (Descendants #1) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
The start of this book confused me, so much so that I actually went back to Amazon to see if it was indeed book 1. It was but it is book 1 of a series that follows on from a previous series. There was no mention of this anywhere and it was only by muddling through that it became clear. This took something away from my enjoyment of the book, hence the 3 stars.
The story itself was well written with some humorous moments. There are twists and turns aplenty, some of which you can see happening and others which will come from the sidelines when you're not expecting it.
I enjoyed this book whilst I was reading it, once I got past my confusion. However once I closed the book, that was that. Not enough for me to get either the previous books in the first series or get the continuing books in the second series. If you have all four books of The Frey Saga then I would give this one a go - you have the back story so will probably enjoy it more than I did.
The story itself was well written with some humorous moments. There are twists and turns aplenty, some of which you can see happening and others which will come from the sidelines when you're not expecting it.
I enjoyed this book whilst I was reading it, once I got past my confusion. However once I closed the book, that was that. Not enough for me to get either the previous books in the first series or get the continuing books in the second series. If you have all four books of The Frey Saga then I would give this one a go - you have the back story so will probably enjoy it more than I did.
Merissa (12066 KP) rated The Night House in Books
Nov 8, 2019
THE NIGHT HOUSE is a standalone post-apocalyptic fantasy romance that seamlessly blends medieval knights and sword-play from a different planet with current day earth.
This was a fantastic read, ticking most of my boxes. Thane and Taya have sparks flying aplenty when they are meet and these continue throughout the book. I loved not only Thane though, but his whole team. They were all strong characters with a strong sense of duty and loyalty. Once Taya was part of their team, that was it. No stupidity or senseless behaviour, just helping the newbie out where possible.
If I could give out half stars, this would be a four and a half! The reason for that half star being knocked off would be the ending. It felt very quick to me, almost as if the author was running out of available words in her word count. Big build-up followed by events happening very quickly and not taking up much page space. Still, I loved this book anyway, so perhaps that's why it seemed to end too quickly!
If you like fantasy and contemporary genres merged together, then I would definitely recommend this book!
This was a fantastic read, ticking most of my boxes. Thane and Taya have sparks flying aplenty when they are meet and these continue throughout the book. I loved not only Thane though, but his whole team. They were all strong characters with a strong sense of duty and loyalty. Once Taya was part of their team, that was it. No stupidity or senseless behaviour, just helping the newbie out where possible.
If I could give out half stars, this would be a four and a half! The reason for that half star being knocked off would be the ending. It felt very quick to me, almost as if the author was running out of available words in her word count. Big build-up followed by events happening very quickly and not taking up much page space. Still, I loved this book anyway, so perhaps that's why it seemed to end too quickly!
If you like fantasy and contemporary genres merged together, then I would definitely recommend this book!
lurkykitty (3 KP) rated The Kingdom of Back in Books
Mar 26, 2020
Mozart's sister reimagined
Marie Lu, known for her fantasy and science fiction has created a well-written and imaginative story about the childhood of the Mozart siblings. Wolfgang Mozart had an older sister nicknamed Nannerl, and together they imagined a fantasy land called the Kingdom of Back.
Nannerl, like her brother, is a enormous talent in terms of playing and composing music, but it is 18th century Europe and women are not allowed to openly compose or have musical careers. Her greatest wish is to be remembered forever. Enter Hyacinthe, a faerie prince from the Kingdom of Back, who offers to make Nannerl's wish a reality, if she will complete a series of tasks for him. At first Nannerl is enthusiastic as she follows his wishes, but soon realizes that there is a sinister price that comes with Hyacinthe's demands. She realizes she must rethink her priorities.
A big theme is this novel is the constraints that were placed on women in this time and it made me wonder how many talented women throughout history were unable to pursue their dreams. Four and a half stars.
Nannerl, like her brother, is a enormous talent in terms of playing and composing music, but it is 18th century Europe and women are not allowed to openly compose or have musical careers. Her greatest wish is to be remembered forever. Enter Hyacinthe, a faerie prince from the Kingdom of Back, who offers to make Nannerl's wish a reality, if she will complete a series of tasks for him. At first Nannerl is enthusiastic as she follows his wishes, but soon realizes that there is a sinister price that comes with Hyacinthe's demands. She realizes she must rethink her priorities.
A big theme is this novel is the constraints that were placed on women in this time and it made me wonder how many talented women throughout history were unable to pursue their dreams. Four and a half stars.