Book Review--The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson

 I distinctly remember hearing about this series some years ago. On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness? North! Or Be Eaten? What outlandish titles! I had no interest whastsoever.

Until I read Gillian Bronte Adam's glowing review.

Until I read the first page.

Aewiar, the world in which these tales take place, is a wonky world that introduces its perils and bizarre monsters with cheek. But as the series continues, especially at the end of of the second book and on, even some of the seemingly ridiculous jokes and creatures are revealed to have a deeper, often darker nature. The truth behind the Fangs of Dang and The Nameless One (named Gnag) is twisted and tear-jerking. Indeed, some of the places and people here are downright horrifying.

But it wasn't always that way. That's not how the Maker created it to be.

As evil closes in, it seems all beauty and joy is choked out of existence. Except there are lost Jewels. Jewels that evil seeks to destroy. Jewels that could restore hope again.

Our heroes are truly delightful. Our three main characters are children, and though they are young (the oldest is twelve), their maturity is far beyond their years, especially as the books progress. We also have quite a fantastic host of adult characters, including their queenly mother and piratey grandfather.  But I have a name for you, dear readers. A name that has been written on my list of favorite literary characters.

Artham P. Wingfeather.

He is a gem. He is a literary gem. While reading about him, I was astonished and impressed how the author made me fall absolutely in love with him despite his...peculiarity in the beginning and his strangeness later on.  Really, I could read a series all about him. Sadly, this series isn't it. Though Artham is an important character, he stays out a lot of the pages in Books 2, 3, and 4. And his absolutely BEST moment is in Book 2. I understand why the author couldn't have him in the main climax of the final book, but I would have loved it if he had his own separate personal climax. And perhaps more of a back-story with his lady?

Now as for some things I didn't care so much for (besides prolonged absence of Artham). The monsters sometimes bordered on too bizarre. I mean some of the cloven were really creepy! I could take it in a book, but it would have been too weird for me on screen. But really it had a point. It was actually pretty heart-wrenching and important. So it's not something to complain about, just shudder-worthy. And other of the creatures were hard to take seriously. Toothy cows. Wow.

There were also some continuity inconsistencies I noticed, but nothing too awful.

Still, none of this really damaged my appreciation of these stories. Andrew Peterson is a remarkable and special author, bringing forth unique and profound tales that charm, chill, and captivate. He is truly a master storyteller. The closest style I could compare him to is Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events--except this is beautiful, less morbid, and severely more encouraging.

Readers may want to know that this series is sometimes to be considered to be a children's series, what with its young main characters and cheeky humor. But I disagree. Though mature kids from 10 (?) on up might enjoy it, the bad guys are quite evil, and the kids often find themselves in painful situations. Plus, these books deal with some pretty dark issues, such as a character mad from torture and guilt. If kids can read these books and glean the profound messages endowed here, good for them!

This is perhaps the most original way since The Chronicles of Narnia to portray the Great Truth.The bittersweet final book illuminates its beauty. I can't say too much for fear of giving anything away. But it is lovely. And the name of the last chapter? Lovely. And the epilogue?

GAH! HOW CAN THE AUTHOR SAY THIS IS THE FINAL BOOK WITH SUCH AN EPILOGUE???? Despite the satisfactory conclusion,the epilogue leaves our characters about to start on an adventure that has such potential and hope and...when you read it, you will join me in a chant for another book.

The young and old alike can enjoy these incredible tales of loss, restoration, failure, redemption, bitterness, forgiveness, and ultimate sacrifice.

So go read them. ;)

An illustration of mine of some of the main characters.

It's a Beautiful Life

I've been rather quiet on this blog, haven't I? Well, the good news is I haven't been nearly so quiet in real life! Indeed, I've been so busy, I haven't really had time to stop and think of good posts for you all!

First of all, some of you might be wondering how Moonscript is faring. It's in a new exciting stage--line-editing. Already, I can see that there will need to be several re-writes. It will take some time, but I want to make sure that Moonscript is the best it can be before it is revealed to readers. So as always, prayers are appreciated!

My Beauty and the Beast stories are going well. Thorn is nearly finished, and then I can turn my nose back to Centaur.

As most of you know already, my Goldstone Wood fan fiction, Eternal, won first place in the contest! I was so excited and blessed. I don't think I can express how much your beautiful comments and appreciation meant to me! So thank you! Thank you, dear readers!

I've been reading ever so many good books lately. It really is such a delight! A review will be coming soon on the incredible series, The Wingfeather Saga!

Also, for the past week, I was on family vacation, and might do another Views out the Window post on some of the beautiful sights we saw.

Oh, and our own dear Allison Rudivich has at last started a blog, The Art of Storytelling, so you should totally go check it out!

I hope you all have been doing well, both in writing and normal life! May God bless and inspire you!

What have been your doings?

Book Review--Hebbros by Nicole Sager

In a realm that feasts on wickedness, and a city that thirsts for power, the faithfulness of a few will be tested.

A MIZGALIAN SEEKS JUSTICE…
When members of his faith are exiled from the city of Hebbros, Luke vows to resist the forces that tore his family apart. Armed with a divine gift and the aid of friends, he undertakes to right a world of wrongs. Opposed on all sides by evil men determined to silence the Faithful and outlaw their powerful God, Luke’s small band will be tried and tested as they battle for truth, freedom, and the overthrow of rampant evil in their city.

AN ARCREAN SEEKS FULFILLMENT…
Three years after Elaina’s world was turned upside-down, the former nobleman’s daughter still tastes the sting of bitterness. When an act of betrayal sends her north into slavery, Elaina finds herself face-to-face with the truth she has long resisted and a choice that will change her forever.

THEY WILL DISCOVER A MATCHLESS GRACE…
Brought together in a desperate attempt to pluck a remnant from destruction, Luke, Elaina, and a host of unforgettable characters will discover the greatness of the power of God, and the startling truth that some things are not what they seem.

Through My Window

One of the first things that struck me when I began reading this book was this--the writing was excellent! In fact, it was so excellent, allow me a few moments to rave about it. 

The author's voice is simple yet elegant, leading the story with a strong hand. Once the tale begins, it really doesn't slow down...calms perhaps, but never bores. I admit, there were times when I would anticipate something that would either be postponed or defused, but after I sighed sadly and accepted things for the way they were, the story would take a new exciting twist. Each character is unique and vivid, imprinting themselves on your mind with such clarity, that it is no problem to keep track of the many characters--and there are MANY characters. 

Speaking of characters, our lead, Luke, is one of the most enjoyable male main characters I've encountered in a quite a while. He's a firebrand, a rebel, a spitfire. Think a Christian Robin Hood in a city instead of a forest. And the supporting cast is wonderful too, especially the witty, but wounded Brandly. The story follows these characters from childhood to adulthood, and they are fantastic the entire way. For the most part, I felt very little disconnection during the time jumps, except for a unprecedented nobility in one of the bad guys.

The theme of faith and salvation is incredibly strong here. The faith is actually based around God and Jesus, not representative deities, which I found a little strange, cause this is obviously a different world. But hey, C. S. Lewis did it too, though a tad more subtly. And while there are a few redemptions that feel rushed, they also feel well-thought out and possible. After all, Saul's salvation was rather sudden.

Violence: Very, very little. Some people die in battle, some are beaten, one is whipped. Children are threatened with death. But it so very mild in description. To be honest, I *cough, cough* was a little disappointed when the scene skipped over a hero being beaten. I know that sounds callous, but that confrontation and scene was being led up to throughout the entire book, and we missed it! (I know, I'm cruel to characters.)

Language: None

Sexual: None

Perhaps the only REAL complaint I have about this book is the cover. Don't get me wrong, it's a very nice cover, but....it's the wrong cover. That girl on the front could barely be called a main character, though she does become prominent in the last 3rd. Still. I imagine Luke, with a bow in his hand, on a rooftop overlooking a (possibly burning) city at night. Such a cover would be hard to come by, though, so I understand. *sigh*

This is truly an engaging novel, packed full with excitement, drama, humor, unexpected twists, and a firm foundation on faith. If any of these things interest you, I suggest you check it out! (And be prepared to look up the author's other books. A sequel is coming!)

Blog Tour Review--Storm Siren

"I raise my chin as the buyers stare. Yes. Look. You don't want me. Because, eventually, accidentally, I will destroy you. "

In a world at war, a slave girl s lethal curse could become one kingdom's weapon of salvation. If the curse and the girl can be controlled.

As a slave in the war-weary kingdom of Faelen, seventeen-year-old Nym isn't merely devoid of rights, her Elemental kind are only born male and always killed at birth meaning, she shouldn't even exist.

Standing on the auction block beneath smoke-drenched mountains, Nym faces her fifteenth sell. But when her hood is removed and her storm-summoning killing curse revealed, Nym is snatched up by a court adviser and given a choice: be trained as the weapon Faelen needs to win the war, or be killed.

Choosing the former, Nym is unleashed into a world of politics, bizarre parties, and rumors of an evil more sinister than she s being prepared to fight . . . not to mention the handsome trainer whose dark secrets lie behind a mysterious ability to calm every lightning strike she summons.

But what if she doesn't want to be the weapon they've all been waiting for?

Set in a beautifully eclectic world of suspicion, super abilities, and monsters, "Storm Siren" is a story of power. And whoever controls that power will win.

 

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Books A Million 

About the Author

Mary Weber is a ridiculously uncoordinated girl plotting to take over make-believe worlds through books, handstands, and imaginary throwing knives.
 In her spare time, she feeds unicorns, sings 80's hairband songs to her three muggle children, and ogles her husband who looks strikingly like Wolverine. They live in California, which is perfect for stalking L.A. bands, Joss Whedon, and the ocean.

Twitter * Facebook * Website

 



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 Through My Window

 ~

Without a doubt, the incredible cover is what caught my interest, and the summary did the rest. However, I did enter the book with reservation, and I'm glad I did, because I was a bit disappointed. But that doesn't necessarily mean you will be. 

First off, while the writing was a bit more modern than I appreciate, the author kept a crisp, quick pace and an engaging voice. Her characters easily came alive, and I truly felt for the disturbed and despairing Nym as her innocent heart has been so roughly battered by her gifts and those who ignite it. The hero, Eogan, was complex and fascinating in his own way, despite the overdose of description concerning his attractiveness. More on that later. 

I do feel however that the story suffered some from a lack of delving into a relationship with the Creator, who is briefly touched on. Nym hopes she can save the world, but she sometimes wonders if she even wants to save it, because quite frankly, it is a mess. There wasn't really any side to root for it seemed. Nym was so desperate for redemption, looking for it most often in a man as broken as she. And while there seemed to be some demonic power propelling the bad guys, Nym seemed pretty much on her own. 

Violence: Not really a lot of graphic description aside from blood and gashes. But there is some cruel brutality here such as (right off the bat) a man almost hanging a little girl. Although this is stopped, she dies from something else soon afterwards. And two (maybe three) of the characters who are actually likeable die. So bummer there.

Sexual: The atmosphere in this book is almost constantly charged with sexual tension. Though no scene goes beyond a kiss, there is some obviously immoral people hanging around. Flirtations, innuendos, and seductive advances hurtle back and forth. 

Oh yes, and the hero is gorgeous. Beautiful. Gorgeous. You got that? If I didn't make it clear, the book will pound it into your head. It was kind of funny the first few times as the heroine grudgingly resents it, but when her acknowledgement turns to out and out lust, I was getting a little tired of it. Also, this hero has the ability to block special powers, which manifests for Nym as calming her down with his touch. In fact, in one desperate attempt to calm her down, he kisses her. Funny, I would have thought that would send some serious energy into the storm, instead of soothing it...

Language: The author has invented her own language, but it is thrown around with such harsh crassness, it's not hard to imagine real swear words in their place. 


There was some great concepts and character development in this book, but the sexual tension kept me distant from the story and that was just as well...because this has one of the worst cliffhangers I've encountered. I could only sit there and go, "REALLY?" I'm not sure I'll continue the next book or not to find out what happens, but if you are uncertain whether to read this or not, I'd recommend waiting until the next book's release is closer. 

*With thanks to Thomas Nelson, NetGalley, and Crafty Booksheeps for providing me with an e-copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.*

For other reviews and author interviews, check out the rest of tour!

Tuesday, August 19^th

-          Interview at Wonderland Novels

-          Review at To Be A Person

Wednesday, August 20^th

-          Review at A BookLover’s Heart

Thursday, August 21^st

-          Review at The Writer’s Window

-          Review at Seasons of Humility

Friday, August 22^nd

-          Review at Remain in his Love
-          Review at Christian Bookshelf Reviews

Saturday, August 23^rd

-          Interview at Jaye L. Knight

-          Review at JoJo’s Corner

Sunday, August 24^th

Review at The American Anglophile

-          Interview at Sara Ella

Monday, August 25^th

-          Review at Wandering the Pages

-          Review at Novel Characters

-          Book Spotlight at Sher A Hart: Written Art

Tuesday, August 26^th

-          Review at Fictionally

-          Review at J. L. Mbewe

Wednesday, August 27^th

-          Wrap up post

Cover Reveal!

So not only is Gillian Bronte Adams releasing her book, Orphan's Song, she is also releasing another novel!!! And my, her covers just get better and better!!!! Is it not EPIC?

DARKNESS REIGNS UNCHALLENGED.

For the villagers on the accursed Island, life has only one meaning—death. Bound to the Island by the curse, the villagers suffer beneath the iron claw of the serpent, daily breathing the poison of his breath and dying to appease his insatiable appetite.

When Marya’s parents are slain by the serpent for their belief in a legendary king, she becomes an Outcast. Struggling to survive and avoid the vengeance of the Tribunal, Marya is torn between legend and the harsh reality of the Island. Yet when a forgotten promise springs to life, she cannot help wondering if the old stories might in fact be true. And if they are, will the promise prove stronger than the curse?

 I'm so excited for this one! It's been a long time and coming, but I'd say it's well worth the wait! You can find out more on Gillian's blog.

Book Review--The Makilien Trilogy by Molly Evangiline

Have you ever used those Amazon "Look Inside" previews for books? Well, musing around, I decided to look at the one for Molly Evangeline's Trust, third and final book in the Makilien Trilogy. I had read the first book before and also enjoyed her novel, Resistance, written under a different author name. But alas--the preview left me off at a cliff-hanger (as is their way)! I couldn't just leave the poor hero off there! I had to find out the rest! So of course, I read the entire trilogy.

First off I will admit that while I enjoyed Truth, it was a little slow for me. But hey, it was one of the author's first books, and she certainly improves!

Courage brings the intensity to a new level with higher and more painful stakes and consequences. Characters are developed and deadly plots are revealed. And after a huge battle that spans over several chapters, we are left off on one of the best cliff-hangers I've encountered in a book. Rather then causing you to growl and throw the book against the wall, it makes you gasp in alarm/delight and dive for the next book.

Fortunately, I had the next book and could finally answer my questions from the Amazon preview. Trust is definitely the best of the three, bringing in an intense, mysterious style that was not present in the previous books, but serves this story splendidly. Along with the black and white/good and evil characters that were prevalent, we are introduced to new or revealed grey characters with deep, difficult conflict. I must say that after three books with these characters I was rather experiencing all their pain with them. And...Sirion...if you, like me, have a thing for noble, tortured heroes you'll love him. And if you, like me, enjoy the brooding, struggling anti-hero, you'll love Rylean. And Aeden is just cool.

Violence-- Battles are detailed as to combat, and while there no shortage of casualties, nothing is really gory or descriptive. Characters are often tortured throughout the books--beaten, burned, whipped--most notably in the last book, but description is handled with taste. Don't think I'm morbid, but it was super nice to see the author let the villain be as bad as they wanted. So often they'll fall short of their true nature because the author is merciful to their characters. Oh yes, there was discretion for the reader's stomach, but this author really let the villains have a go at the heroes! I only wish a little more attention had been paid to the reality of the victim's wounds. I understand that adrenaline can do amazing things, but sometimes the heroes could talk or move way too well for their injuries.

Sexual--Um...next to none? There is romance, but the characters are all extremely chaste, only gifting each other with an occasional embrace of encouragement and a kiss on the forehead. Which was very nice.

Langauge--None

Other--While this is a fantasy with an array of fantasy creatures, there is no magic.

This fantasy trilogy is an exciting, involving story of triumph over evil, faith in impossible situations, and all around good guys. The simplistic writing style serves the story well. I think the peak of my enjoyment might have been from tweens to early teens, but I enjoyed this nevertheless! If you're looking for a new adventure, definitely consider this one!

Five Enchanted Roses Entries Sneak Peak!

Hey everyone! As August barrels in (wait, August? But I wasn't done with July!!!!!!!) I thought I'd share a peek at the stories I'm working on for the Five Enchanted Roses Beauty and the Beast contest!

Doctor Lewis has one thing left in the world--his young daughter, Bell. Now he prepares to give her up so she can have a future oversea in the mainland away from the rugged frontier. But as they travel across a savage mountain range with a band of soldiers and miners, Bell comes to adore an enslaved centaur--a creature said to be nothing more than a vicious beast despite its part-human appearance. When Bell's life is endangered, will her father be able to overcome the lie and see that the monster is a man?

Seeking a home away from deep hurt, Armel and his maimed father run afoul a cruel village living under the shadow of a dark castle rumored to be ruled by an evil, enchanted queen. To save his father's life, Armel is forced to enter the castle as an offering for their offense, but once inside, he discovers the queen would rather have him gone. Caught by fear and intrigue, he determines to break her spell by learning to truly love her. But no greater challenge has he ever undertook nor has he been met by greater resistance.  

For she deserves Death. And Death draws ever nigh...

What about you? Are you working on some stories for the contest? Care to share? :)