Review: A Curse so Dark and Lonely

A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

Published by Bloomsbury Publishing
Released on January 29 (US) February 4 (Australia)
ISBN 9781681195094

Read December 28 2018

For a long while, I thought the title of this book was A Curse so Dark and Lovely, which of course, no. But really the word ‘lovely’ brings a sort of truth to Rhen’s situation. If not for the curse, he would never have become the man he is by the time he meets Harper. The curse is terrible for the kingdom and even worse for Rhen’s family, but for Rhen himself, it saves him. There’s a sense of loveliness about that, but truly, it’s more lonely (than lovely) for Rhen—so actually A Curse so Dark and Lonely is the perfect title.

While this novel follows some of the features of Beauty and the Beast, in other ways it is updated and quite different. Rhen has cursed the whole kingdom, Emberfall, with his arrogant and privileged behaviour (not to mention reckless and thoughtless) and part of that involves turning into the monster, who without realising, kills and destroys without discrimination. The castle is enchanted, music plays, food always available, in which time moves differently. Outside the perimeter of the castle grounds, Emberfall is suffering, vulnerable to outside forces waiting and wanting to conquer it.

Rhen’s only companion is Grey, commander of the guard, sworn swordsman and accomplice in playing out the never ending cycle of the curse. This relationship is a very strong element of the story, with Grey forming a very crucial part of the triad. His sacrifices are many and his guilt strong.

Harper, our romantic lead, one half of the narrative, hero and saviour (of Rhen, Emberfall and Grey) is a thoroughly modern girl (I wanted to say ‘Millie’, but that dates me soo bad). She isn’t Grey’s choice to be the next attempt to break the curse. She fights Grey off his choice—an inebriated partly unconscious girl—and ends up in Emberfall by accident. Snarky, fierce and completely proactive, she disarms both boys in different ways, and the tussle for understanding and communication is a delightful component of the narrative. Harper’s background is grounded and authentic, and she’s possibly the only way forward for Emberfall. Watching her not only accept the role she has to play, but also developing respect and concern for both Rhen and Grey makes A Curse So Dark and Lonely a worthwhile and satisfying read. Knowing Kemmerer is already working on book two means the cliff-hanger is almost bearable.

Rhen is the heart of the story (Grey is the strength, Harper is the spark). He is tortured (quite literally as well) and damaged, unable to forgive himself, both as a royal prince and as the monster. His regrets are many, his accomplishments few. Harper forces him to confront the reality of his situation and demands he does something to help his people. One of his strengths, his ability to strategise, allows a plan to formulate, and with that comes hope, a very dangerous emotion.

There are several secondary characters, including Freya, Zo and Harper’s brother Jake, who round out a strong amazingly created cast. Their loyalty to Harper, and their own determination to save Emberfall means that ultimately the three main protagonists have others to help and support them. The climax is suspenseful and suitably dramatic, and the epilogue is, as mentioned before, appropriately open ended.

I haven’t mentioned Harper’s cerebral palsy. So beautifully integrated, Harper constantly stresses that it’s not a disability, it’s just part of her. When Grey teaches her to defend herself, she merely finds way to compensate, and the respect she garners shows how important self-confidence and strength of will can be. There are other inclusive additions, including a strong same sex relationship, which shows Kemmerer’s understanding of what current novels require.

I very much enjoyed immersing myself in this wonderful combination of fantasy land and contemporary storytelling. Kemmerer is one of the best young adult authors currently writing male leads—flawed, yet finding ways to be better, and romantic without being skeezy or fake. Her ability to present friendships between (straight) males promotes positive bonding and excellent role modelling. I would love to see this given to boys because while the cover might be off-putting, this is not an overly romantic, or girly story. Harper fights her attraction, there is very little kissing, and the action is strong and exciting.

Thanks to publishers, Bloomsbury and Netgalley for advanced copy. Highly recommended for readers who love early Sarah J Maas, series by Alwyn Hamilton and Sabaa Tahir, the Rephaim series by Paula Weston. Due out everywhere this coming week.

Review: Just Pretending by Leah & Kate Rooper

Just Pretending (The Chicago Falcons, #3) by Leah & Kate Rooper

Published by Entangled Crush
Released on November 5 2018 (in the US)
ISBN 9781640637153

Read October 21 2018

This is very much a romance novel, so I advise you to just chill out and enjoy these two as they stumble their way through dislike to fake relationship; from misunderstanding to communication; from what-the-hell-people? to aww-shucks-that’s-cute. It’s predictable and doesn’t break any expectations.

Tyler is presented as a troubled boy, who although he deserves our sympathy and our help, refuses to be seen as weak or needy. His dyslexia has an up side and down side–on the positive, we see how clever Tyler has been to hide his disability and to show that with enough determination, he can pretty much function and achieve. On the negative side, his fear of discovery means he is very sensitive and defensive, which makes him impossible to really know. How can anyone else like him when he barely likes himself?

Also? The fact that he is ashamed of his family makes him harder to like. So it’s easy to see that Tyler has lots of growing to do throughout the novel. I found that at least he was honest with himself, even if he couldn’t give others the same courtesy.

Eva was also a fairly stereotypical character. Being Queen of her country at only 16 means she is bound by obligation and honour. It’s not ridiculous to imagine that she would sometimes want to take a break and enjoy some ordinary teenage pursuits. Her mother is unfortunately a complete (horror) trope, and Daniel (who had his own book last year) is entirely too over-protective, and I desperately wished someone would call him out on it. So annoying that he was cast in this role.

Tyler pretending to be someone else in order to spend quality time with Eva was unrealistic, but it was fun to see them connect. That Eva forgives him works in the context of the novel’s expectations. Tyler does grow up a lot, and seeks forgiveness, not only from Eva, but also his family and friends. They display much surprise about his lack of confidence, which only serves to makes us more aware of how little attention they paid him.

But I went along for the ride, despite my misgivings, knowing that the target audience will love it and enjoy the wish fulfillment elements. After all, who among us here, didn’t wish that we could be a princess and be swept off our feet by a fit, hunky, tall all-American boy who loves only us? I mean, when we were younger of course, not now. (cough cough).

Thanks to publisher and Netgalley for advanced copy. Just Pretending was released in the US on November 5.

Review: Two Middle Fiction Books (but are they?)

Lenny’s Book of Everything by Karen Foxlee

Published by Allen & Unwin
ISBN 9781760528706
Released on October 26 2018

Read October 8-12 2018

The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars by Jaclyn Moriarty

Published by Allen & Unwin
ISBN 9781760297183
Released on October 26 2018

Read August 23 – October 10 2018

Both of these books will be marketed at young readers, anywhere between 10 and 14 years. They are very different in style, subject matter, and purpose, but they have one thing in common  – The complexity of those above elements in each, mean that they can be enjoyed by much older readers. Foxlee and Moriarty use language in extraordinary ways, they don’t pander to a preconceived idea of how books should treat children, and they certainly don’t mess around with telling some harsh truths about living and dying. These two novels deserve a wide and deep audience.

The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is a prequel (of sorts) to The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone. The same charm is evident, the same quirky humour, and it overflows with adventures, asides, and development of character. The start takes us to a different part of the Kingdoms and Empires world, and the gradual reveal of how it links to Bronte’s story is worth every minute. The story of the competitiveness between the two groups of children, and their subsequent banding together despite their differences, reflects Moriarty’s understanding of young people and the way they interact and navigate relationships. Finlay, Honey Bee, Glim, Victor, Taya, Eli and Hamish all require acknowledgement as each plays a pivotal role in discovering the mystery at the heart of the whispering wars. This is a twisty tale, and children will be caught up in the puzzles, the clues and the surprises.

However, The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars is so much more than a child’s fantasy, much in the same way as Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series is. Moriarty includes commentary and explanation along the way that is often mature and oh so relevant. We grapple with the injustices against people overwhelmed by poverty. We experience frustration at the wasted layers of bureaucracy and mediocrity. There’s also the crucial question to ponder: why are children always stolen away? This means that we, as adults, meet this story on a number of other ostensibly deeper layers, and are enriched and enlightened as well as entertained and moved.

Lenny’s Book of Everything is set in 1970’s Ohio, which might seem strange for an author who lives in Queensland. However, its time period, geographic location and creation of characters are all pitched perfectly. Cindy, mother of Lenore and David, is a force with which to be reckoned. She is all lioness, protective, growling and under estimated. Her fight for dominance with Burrell’s General Sales Manager Martha Brent, is a battle for the ages, and the lines drawn in the sand reflect the growing struggle for Davey’s life. Ultimately everyone unites for the same cause–and the emotional power is sustained and lingering on the reader.

Lenny our narrator is an authentic child. She radiates with anger about their useless ineffectual father, while she mourns his absence. She keeps Davey safe, at the same time resenting the attention everyone pours over him. She refuses to let go of her dreams to be an entomologist, and never wavers in her dislike for Mr King or her belief in Mrs Gasper. Her encounters with Mrs E Spink and the insights she gains through that misadventure, show her growing into a compassionate and kind individual. This really is Lenny’s book, and the heartache surrounding Davey is filtered through the lens of her optimism and faith in the world. Just like Scout, Holden and Ponyboy, Lenny is a character who represents her time, and whose view of the world is one to admire and revisit. Foxlee’s writing is sublime. Lenny’s Book of Everything is a story that will be enjoyed by adults as well as young people. The same is true of The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars.

Seek them out.

 

Review: Just One of the Royals by Leah & Kate Rooper

Just one of the Royals by Leah and Kate Rooper

Published by: Entangled Teen
ISBN: 9781640635760
Released: June 4 2018

Read: May 24 2018

I didn’t read the first book in this loosely connected romance hockey story, but I don’t think it was necessary. This pair of KMUKS (Crazy, mixed-up kids) are best friends of the previous book, and although both couples appear in each other’s stories, they stand alone. I asked for it because I am a bit of a fan of YA hockey romances, and there was enough about Daniel’s team to keep me happy. But of course, it’s primarily about Daniel and Madison.

Daniel is a great character, and his growth through the book an important element. He really has a chip about his illegitimacy and fair enough too. As far as he knows, his father, the King, has not bothered to form any kind of relationship with him. Visiting every summer means he has bonded with his younger sister Eva who is the only reason he agrees to consider becoming King of Eldonia.

Madison brings welcome diversity, although the trope of her (Korean) parents wanting her to do medicine and her having to convince them of her actual dream, is worn thin now. But still, she’s a take-charge kind of girl, and protective of Daniel, which is lovely to see.

I was annoyed that they clearly had feelings for each other, but were too reluctant to take a chance. The fake relationship gives them leeway to pretend to express their real feelings, and that was cute to watch, but dear me it was also agonising when the mis-communication got out of control.

The scenes in the fictional European country are fun, the villain suitably creepy and narcissistic, and the plot twist easy to predict, but it moves at a sprightly pace and ends satisfactorily. If romance is your thing, and you like that added to your hockey stories, then this is the book for you.

Thanks to Entangled Teen Crush and Netgalley for the advanced copy. It was released on June 4 (sorry I am a bit late).

Review: The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone by Jaclyn Moriarty

The Extremely Inconvenient Adventures of Bronte Mettlestone by Jaclyn Moriarty

Published: Allen & Unwin
Released: November 1 2017 (in Australia)
ISBN: 9781760297176

Read: October 19 2017

At 109 chapters and over 500 pages, this story will challenge some young readers. But it is worth it because we are taken into a world that is fully realised, but never over-explained. We travel with Bronte to visit ten Aunts, and they are distinct individuals, and nothing feels repetitive or cliched. Each moment of revelation is seamlessly woven through the storyline, so that when its significance is inevitably realised, readers are not surprised or jolted out of the narrative.

The underlying sadness and pain take a while to leak through. Bronte is seemingly accommodating and well-mannered, so much of her point of view is coated with a stiff-upper-lip resolve. However, she also displays tremendously brave behaviour and very acute observations, and slowly we are given a glimpse into how she really feels about the disappearance and death of her parents. There is anger of course, and a longing that permeates her quest. It’s only late in the novel we are told that Bronte is reliving the story two years after her adventures. As a 12 year old, her perspective is wiser and gently scathing towards unkindness and narrow-mindedness. This is very subtle and is a further layer in a cleverly constructed story.

Moriarty incorporates humour to great effect. Each Aunt is accompanied by other characters who test Bronte’s mettle (ha. See what I did there?), and her ability to adapt and learn shows young readers about resilience and reward. Aunt Sue’s boisterous sons are delightful and generous, and Aunt Nancy’s clever daughters are wily and honest. Taylor’s no-nonsense offer of friendship arrives at exactly the right time, and the boy with no shoes is a mystery Bronte refuses to leave unsolved. I could go on listing other wonderful characters – the noisy librarian is particularly welcome, and the water sprites are effusive and jubilant—but to do that would spoil much of the wonder and delight of the novel. It’s best you discover them on your own.

The final quarter where all the clues fall together into the intricately woven climax keeps readers madly turning pages to watch Bronte stay one step ahead of the evil threatening her family and her identity. She needs all her skills and friends to triumph, and it’s an astonishing and wholly satisfying defeat. Then we have the final pages of reflection and quiet acceptance of her new reality. If I wanted more here, well, that’s ok. Those final poignant pages are all the more powerful for their low key and concise conclusion.

This ambitious and clever novel seems geared towards younger readers, but I believe anyone will love it. I think everyone should read it, actually.

Review: Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller

Daughter of the Pirate King by Tricia Levenseller

Published by: Feiwel & Friends
Released: February 28 2017 (in the US)
ISBN: 9781250095961

Read: September 24-25 2017

Most of the books I review here are ones I receive from Netgalley. The other advanced copies I read are reviewed elsewhere. But now I have more time to read for myself, I hope to add books that have been on my to-be-read list for a while, ones that I have heard about and have been keen to read. Daughter of the Pirate King is one such book, and I am pleased that it lived up to my expectations.

A caveat of sorts. Books about pirates do cause me some consternation. I remember a judging panel I was once on, where another judge confronted us all with a strong anti-pirate stance. The argument was based on the fact that today, pirates still exist, and the trauma they cause is real and horrifying. That to create a romanticised view of them was to do a disservice to people who are robbed, kidnapped or worse by these opportunists. It was a discussion mostly around picture book depictions, and how we continue to create pretty, fanciful pirate books, and how offensive this is. I certainly haven’t forgotten that explanation, and so every time I see a pirate book, I am much more cautious and careful.

However, pirates are present in films, TV shows as well as books, and it’s difficult to completely ignore their presence. This year I created a ‘nautical’ shelf on GR to accommodate a growing number of books where characters live life on oceans or rivers, and villains in those books are often a variation of a pirate character. What’s tricky is a situation in which the pirate character is the protagonist, and readers are asked to identify with him or her, and we all know pirates loot, ravage and destroy. How can we reconcile that?

Easily, actually. The same way we accept vampires or gangsters, thieves or vikings. Authors present characters as flawed individuals and readers accept them or not. It’s up to us.

Right, so, on with the review. Finally. Alosa is the title character. As daughter of the pirate king, she agrees to be taken captive and sneakily hunt down a piece of an important, life-changing map. Right from the beginning we are aware we follow an adept, clever, confident girl, a captain of her own crew, a skilled fighter, and a scheming opportunist. Alosa has deliberately put herself in harm’s way, has a clear plan to follow, but is capable of working outside it when the situation requires, which happens often. Not surprising really, considering she is dealing with well, other pirates.

Alosa reveals her secrets slowly. Her dark back story only makes her more appealing and sympathetic. When she fights for her life towards the end, we are glad of all the gifts and skills she possesses, even though we know how much she suffered to have them. I loved her too cocky, too confident snark, but ultimately she has every reason to be arrogant. She really is that good.

The romance is a slow smolder. The trust builds with Riden (pronunciation, anybody? Ree-din? Ry-den?) even while they eye each other suspiciously, and lie to one another (and themselves). Their banter is consistently good fun and revealing, and inevitably why they are able to save each other. The conclusion is a mix—some plot points are wrapped up, but the major story line is left open for at least one more follow up.

Daughter of the Pirate King contains a strong and determined main character, who never gives up. Alosa’s story is a blend of the her time as a prisoner, as she tries to locate the map and gets to know her enemies, and flashbacks to her upbringing, her own crew, and the larger story of the mysterious map. Truly, the dialogue is witty and snarky, an obvious contrast to the dire situation of being the only woman on a ship inhabited by immoral men. It’s not long or drawn out, and this conciseness keeps the narrative tight and tense. Yes, it’s a fun fantasy tale, but it also continues the trend in YA of depicting independent females in charge and capable, and developing diverse secondary characters who bring nuance and texture. Highly recommended.

Review: Traitor to the Throne

Traitor to the Throne (Rebel of the Sands Book 2) by Alwyn Hamilton

Published by: Faber & Faber (Allen & Unwin Australia)
Released on: February 2 2017
ISBN: 9780571325412

Read: December 23 2016

Trying to defeat your despotic father’s large and powerful army with your small but dedicated band of rebels is a big task. No sooner have you managed to triumph in one part of the country, then a protest in another part is soundly beaten, and you must re-group. This is what faces the Rebel Prince and his band of merry misfits, part-djinn children, and hopeless romantics. They carry a fire, that’s certain, but success is determined by choices, and their youth, inexperience and lack of resources means their task is overwhelming.

Which is why Traitor to the Throne works on many levels.

Amina has developed a lot over the course of the first book. Now aware of her Demdji powers, her confidence is growing. Assured of Jin’s love initially, she is now rethinking their relationship when he keeps his distance, both physically and emotionally. She has meet people who are now her family and her loyalty to them is unrivaled. But there are small disputes among the Rebel Prince’s cohorts. We see Amina and her friends defy his orders, mostly as a counterpoint to the Sultan himself.

For much of the book, Amina, captured and without magic, observes the way Ahmed’s father rules, and there are moments when she almost admires his actions, and herein lies the opportunity for Hamilton to open a conversation on leading and ruling, and the moral ambiguities faced by all people. It’s a little uncomfortable really. We want our villains to be evil, and to have our main character show sympathy for this treacherous man is confronting. During this part of the story, Hamilton dials back on the action, slows the pace, and takes the opportunity to fill the pages with myths and stories of the history of her world. Some readers will love these tangents, while others will rush through them, looking for the excitement and thrill of the inevitable clashes between the opposing forces. While I appreciated Amina’s downtime, I was always preparing myself for the bad times to come (They did. They were.)

There are many new characters introduced, and we lose some dear friends. We also meet up with some who had seemingly been lost to us in the first book. Structurally, Traitor to the Throne is tighter, cleverer, as it builds to its shattering climax. All the pieces seem to be in play now for the final and desperate conclusion to the series. While the first book played on a mash-up of the ‘Old West’ elements inserted into a magical Arabian setting, Traitor to the Throne focuses the tone on a political intrigue genre, with the two sparring armies trying to one-up the other in spying and counter-spying. The stakes are high, and Hamilton deftly highlights how much and how many innocents suffer in war-time.

This advanced copy was approved by Netgalley, via the publisher, and read with thanks. Released everywhere on February 2, 2017.

Recommended for readers who love their fantasy series twisty and complicated. For every one thing where the rebels succeed, there are four more where they don’t, ensuring the rebellion is hard fought. While there are some romantic moments, it’s isn’t a priority, given the characters are more focused on surviving battles and betrayals. The rebel group is diverse, have snarky conversations, and depict true loyalty to Ahmed and each other. The second book in what I believe is a trilogy.

 

The best of the rest 2016: mostly middle of a series

So I have eight (!) other books that I adored, and they are mostly books that sit comfortably into a popular series. Two are firsts in new series, and another is a contemporary romance that is a feel good story by a developing author. So happy new year! Here is my last best of list 2016 on the 1st day of 2017.

 

Night Study (Soulfinders #2) Maria V Snyder (January 2016)

I have read most of the books set in this universe (except the Glass series), and find them compelling and hopeful. Yelena and Valek are wonderful characters. I love that they could easily be given to adult readers, as they don’t talk down or pander to a young audience. Because I thankfully received it from Netgalley, my review at Goodreads is lengthy (& includes spoilers). I am currently waiting (not so patiently) to be approved for the next one (fingers crossed).

Marked in Flesh (The Others #4) Anne Bishop (March 2016)

I found these by accidentally, and slowly over the course of four novels, I have become very attached to Meg and Simon’s little crew. The pattern of each book is familiar–lots of scenes of domesticity in the compound, while outside narrative voices tell of impending doom. No matter how much the humans who know The Others, try to warn the aggressors, their calls go unheeded and everyone suffers. But mostly those ignorant greedy humans. It’s contemporary politics wrapped up in a carefully controlled, beautifully realised fantasy world.

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices #1) Cassandra Clare (March 2016)

The highly anticipated latest blockbuster from the City of Bones world did not disappoint. It’s epic, it’s detailed, and it’s great storytelling. As much as I liked it, Lady Midnight didn’t make my list of first in a series because secretly, for me, there was just a little bit too much pandering to ‘shippers of couples from previous series. I think we should focus on Emma and her LA posse, and their troubles. Because believe me, they have plenty!! And I just checked and she’s getting the next one out in May 2017. Awesome!

The Unexpected Everything Morgan Matson (May 2016)

This is messy, complicated, and full of tropes, but it’s done in a way that is thorough, warm, and witty, so it’s hard to find fault with it. Andie is the best kind of narrator–generally a nice person, who just has had it too good up till now, to realise her privilege and her self-absorption. When she loses (what she understands to be) everything, her growth is commensurate with her increase in humility, compassion, and generosity. The secondary characters are well developed, and the situations, experiences, and resolution all feel true. I loved this a lot.

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2) Sarah J Maas (May 2016)

Probably the biggest hit of 2016. I actually read both books this year, which is always better with these epic fantasy novels, involving many characters and plot twists and cliffhanger endings. Sarah J Maas is alternating between two major series, and how she keeps them separate in her head astounds me. Lots of charting and timelines I suspect. Anyway, Feyre is another great character, and her involvement in this immortal war will hopefully mean the awful dudes get what’s coming to them. I am definitely all in for the ride.

The Call Peadar O’Guilin (August 2016)

I thought this was a standalone, but it’s apparently not. More horror than anything else I read, it felt astonishing fresh and incredibly exciting. Dealing with Celtic fey (here known as the Sidhe, pronounced ‘shee’), O’Guilin offers us Nessa, disabled yet stubborn, and full of pride. Her peers are living a nightmare. Any of them (including Nessa) could get ‘the call’ at any time. Disappearing into the world of the Sidhe, they have to survive 24 hours of torture, chasing, wickedness and whatever else these revenging immortals think up. For the people in the ‘real’ world, the whole experience lasts only 2 minutes. This tense taut tale is executed in brazen tones–snark into next week, drama between the teens, mostly useless adult mentors, most of them suffering PDST from their own horrifying encounters, and don’t even ask me how he pulls off that glorious resolution. It’s a killer!

A Torch against the night (An Ember in the Ashes #2) Sabaa Tahir (August 2016)

The importance of world building in paranormal action novels should never be downplayed. It’s crucial that the landscape could exist, and Tahir pulls off this dystopian Ancient Roman alternate history like a pro. There is much reliance on violence to try to curtail the actions of the resistance, but that just makes the story stronger. Our heroes, Laia and Elias, are pulled through some rough circumstances, requiring tough choices, and readers must be prepared for a long haul here, before we see some light. Gosh, it’s good.

Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5) Sarah J Maas (September 2016)

The other popular tome of the 2016 clocks in at nearly 700 pages, and to have made it all the way through to that ending requires not only persistence, but also patience with Maas, because I am certain our feisty queen, Aelin, DID NOT  deserve that. You can tell I remain riled up when I ‘caps lock’ text. Luckily we only have to wait a year… I still don’t know how she does it. Two blockbusters a year. Hope she’s getting some sleep.

That’s it for 2016. Hope you’ll join me again soon, for more reviewing, some useful lists, and my anticipated reads for 2017. Have a happy and safe New Year’s Eve. I am off to watch ‘Sing!’

 

 

 

 

 

 

Best of 2016: First in a series

There were as many new series started as there were finished in 2016. I am sure many of you can add to this list in the comments with your favourites. I read quite a few (and dnf’ed some of them) so when they all begin to blur into each other, a book that stands out, and makes me wish for the next one will make it to the list. Other ones that just missed out: Lady Midnight, Knights of the Borrowed Dark, & The Girl from Everywhere.

Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton (February 2016)

Just won best debut novel on Goodreads, so that says something about it. I loved the Arabian night style setting, its rebels with many causes, and Amira herself is snarky and brave. The plot twists around and leads us in unexpected directions. Looking for to Number 2, (which I actually already have thanks to Netgalley).

The Road to Winter by Mark Smith (June 2016)

A well crafted Australian post-apocalyptic survival story, set in the not-too-distant-future. Finn is a admirable protagonist, full of resilience and moral character. His attempts to save Rosie and find her missing sister make for a suspenseful, action-packed thriller. Better though is the insightful comments about the direction Australia is heading, and it’s not pretty. Short, tight and worth the fast, furious ride.

The Crown’s Game by Evelyn Skye (July 2016)

Another fantasy novel that is grounded with historical detail, and a strong sense of setting. Imperial Russia has never looked so magical. Nico and Vika know they have to fight for the right to be the only enchanter, and the crown’s game pits them against each other. Of course, there’s a love story, and a third love interest, so it’s all very complicated. But the magic the two create is a highlight in this tense duel to the death.

Come back on Monday when I talk about my favourite historical novels of 2016.

Royalty: Favourite royal characters

Yay, it’s the purple day in the #rainblowblogchallenge. My fav colour. And of course, what else to discuss except those of noble and royal birth. Hmm, actually I have struggled to write find appropriate books because I have never read Princess Diaries, nor am I a huge fan of fairy tales (even the re-imagined ones). So, it’s with this warning, I give you three books with royal characters and why I love them.

I read The Darkest Part of the Forest (January 2015) a week after it was released. This is how much I love Holly Black’s book. Okay, so I said I didn’t really read a lot of re-imagined fairy tales, and some people could say this is a version of sleeping beauty. The faery prince tucked away in the glass coffin is certainly a pretty boy. And while he sleeps, Ben and Hazel make up stories about him. They both love him, and are aware that the faeries around their small town tolerate the humans, but in reality can be lethal.

By the time the prince awakes, Black has us spellbound with fascinating characters, and a captivating landscape. Her vision of faeries are dark and sinister, and it takes all the four main characters’ courage to keep the village and its folk safe. Royally creepy.

I read The Winner’s trilogy over a number of years, finally finishing with The Winner’s Kiss this year (March, 2016). While Kestral is only a general’s daughter, and Arin a soldier (spy), they both rise up through the ranks in their respective countries to be people of power. Their romance moves from innocent forbidden, to surviving trauma and separation. Their scheming and politic-ing really binds the world-building and the plotting together. A royally cohesive series.

Finally, most recently, I read the first book in a new series by Amy Tintera called Ruined (May 2016). Em is a princes of a destroyed kingdom. When she pretends to be someone else to marry the son of her despised enemy, readers know the set up with be filled with tension of her discovery. There is considerable bigotry towards those with magic, and the torture scenes are quite graphic. Tintera lets us know that war is hopeless and cruel. The conclusion of the first book sets up an intriguing second book, in which it seems Em will have to choose between her country and her family (also her love). Oh, princesses do not have it easy, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.I am royally keen to read on.

The absolutely best thing about all three books/series is the inclusion of same-sex relationships as normal, healthy and accepted. I would love to see this attitude in more contemporary novels too. Love is love is love. Irrespective of how royal your blood.

Thanks to the hosts of the #rainbowblogchallenge for these terrific prompts.