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Spells (Wings #2)

by Aprilynne Pike

3.97 · rating details · 9,632 ratings · 1,146 reviews

Six months have passed since Laurel saved the gateway to the faerie realm of Avalon. Now she must spend her summer there, honing her skills as a Fall faerie. But her human family and friends are still in mortal danger--and the gateway to Avalon is more compromised than ever.

When it comes time to protect those she loves, will she depend on David, her human boyfr...more

Hardcover, 359 pages

Published May 4th 2010 by Harper Teen

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Jul 23, 2010

Library Lady rated it

Shelves: children-s-and-ya-fantasy-sci-fi, slj, galley, my-50-in-2010

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I thought "Wings" was bad, but this just takes it to a whole new level. And it all started with the revelation that Eve-- yes, THAT Eve, mother of humankind for Christians and Jews-- was a faery. It's true. On page 102, during a scene in which Laurel is discussing her relationship with David with her faery friend, Katya, we have the following scene:

"The look on Katya's face was one of genuine concern. She shrugged. 'It's been a long time since Avalon involved itse...moreI thought "Wings" was bad, but this just takes it to a whole new level. And it all started with the revelation that Eve-- yes, THAT Eve, mother of humankind for Christians and Jews-- was a faery. It's true. On page 102, during a scene in which Laurel is discussing her relationship with David with her faery friend, Katya, we have the following scene:

"The look on Katya's face was one of genuine concern. She shrugged. 'It's been a long time since Avalon involved itself in human affairs. I know it's necessary, sometimes. But it seems like relationships between humans and faeries always end badly.'

Laurel's head jerked back. 'Really?'

'Sure. Sanzang, Scheherazade, Guinevere. And then there was that disgraceful incident with Eve.'"

Several paragraph's later, at the end of the scene on page 103, Laural "look[s:] over at Katya, one eyebrow raised. 'Eve? Seriously?'

"Of course. Why? What do the humans say about her?'"

And that's the only information we're given. I'm sorry, you can't just change such a significant person as Eve and make her a faery without offering any explanation! Yet, that's what she does. And the book only gets worse from there. (Don't even get me started on what she does to Shakespeare!)

Honestly, the people who have given this book high ratings have either a) never read any faery books before in their lives, or b) have never read a well-written book. I didn't think it was possible for the writing to get worse, but I was wrong. There is very little interaction with the trolls-- the series bad guys-- in the book, so most of Pike's time is spent explaining her faery world and having Laurel fluctuate between David and Tamani. I thought I would stab my eyes out if I had to read yet another scene of David and Laurel making out. I mean, honestly! And the scenes where Laurel is in Avalon are also ridiculous: why not show us how the potions work with some examples of them saving lives, rather than telling us how they work? You know the whole, "show don't tell" mantra? It really works!

I thought the whole faery social structure was somewhat interesting, but ridiculous. And the scene with the warrior woman who chases after trolls was beyond stupid. Why bring her in? Hopefully, for those who continue with the series, she'll be explained a bit more.

Her explanation of faery language and it's connection to English was laughable. Do your research woman! There are faeries or fae-like creatures in nearly every culture of the world, so it stands to reason that faeries would know nearly every language in those cultures in which they feature. Granted, the majority of what we know and think of about faeries is Western European, but there are African faery-like creatures, as well as Asian. Also, why Gaelic? Why bring in Irish mythology at all? And why not tell me what the Unseelie Court means in your world? I highly doubt that all of her readers even know what that is, or why its so significant to faery mythology in general.

This was overwrought, boring and insipid. There are much better books out there with much better mythologies. I honestly think Pike just sat down and started writing without planing out her mythology at all. You would think with such stellar examples as Tolkien and Rowling, one would know that if you're going to invent a whole new mythology, you should work out as many kinks as you can. And if you're going to reinvent famous people, at least do your reader the courtesy of a thorough and clear explanation!(less)

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Dec 21, 2010

Heidi rated it

Shelves: ebook

What a way to leave a girl hanging. Aprilynne Pike has now mastered the cliff hanger ending, right down to the last paragraph! Man, now how do I possibly wait until 2011 for Illusions?

This was a great novel from Aprilynne Pike. I really enjoyed the building of characters and the glimpse into the life of Laurel before she was "human". The world of faerie according to Aprilynne is fascinating, and she really gets me thinking about how Laurel's character might change the faeri...more

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Sep 08, 2011

Haleema rated it

Shelves: authors-with-zero-talent, lust-at-first-sight, cheesy-cheeseful-cheese, facepalm-books, full-of-mary-sues, just-begging-for-snark, lame-rip-offs-of-other-works, what-the-hell-was-that, what-a-joke, written-by-a-donkey, yawned-more-than-i-blinked, troll-books, pyramid-of-pure-stupidity

Okay.

I picked up this book simply because I wanted to know what happened to these Mary Sues. I had no interest in the plot. I had no interest in the story itself. And because I would enjoy a good laugh.

I didn't. Nada. Nothing.

This was so bad that it didn't even let me laugh at its stupidity. It was that stupid.

First of all, Pike's writing is EXACTLY like Meyer's. They both describe the most irrelevant things. They both have an adjective for ever...more

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Feb 07, 2010

Jennifer rated it

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Jul 11, 2010

Lyndsey rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: ya

In the sequel to Wings, a year has passed for Laurel who found out that she was a faerie. Although she completely accepts who and what she is, she refuses to turn her back on the life that she has always known, her life with human parents and friends. This is causing a few problems in Avalon as Laurel really needs to learn what it means to be a real faerie and Tamani begins to show his true feelings.

After spending the whole summer relearning her magic in Avalon, Laurel knows she can...moreIn the sequel to Wings, a year has passed for Laurel who found out that she was a faerie. Although she completely accepts who and what she is, she refuses to turn her back on the life that she has always known, her life with human parents and friends. This is causing a few problems in Avalon as Laurel really needs to learn what it means to be a real faerie and Tamani begins to show his true feelings.

After spending the whole summer relearning her magic in Avalon, Laurel knows she cannot hide her feelings for Tamani but actually choosing between him and David could mean losing one of them for good. Laurel also knew that the troll problem wasn't completely gone but she thought that she and David were being protected. Her magic hasn't been going very well so far but it could save both the human and faerie world if she can finally get something right.
As I said in my review of Wings, I couldn't wait to start on this book and I ended up reading it in one sitting. The story was both interesting and exciting at different times which was helped by the mix of settings throughout. I really liked the fact that the book is pretty much split in two. The first half seems to be more about knowledge and explanations while the second half is all about adventure and excitement. I know this could seem like there is just a slow build up but there was enough going on for me to stay interested.

With Laurel heading off to Avalon for the summer, we get to find out a lot more about her relationship with Tamani and what happened between them before they erased Laurel's memory. I loved hearing about their past, meeting Tamani's family which gave me a bigger insight into his character and also what the other faeries thought about the relationship. I was hoping for some of this in Wings but I'm glad it was saved for this book as it was possible for certain things to be explored more thoroughly. The time in Avalon was lovely to read about as Pike's descriptions were magical in themselves. I truly felt like I was walking through the different areas and could understand the faerie hierarchy better because of this.
It is stated in Wings that Laurel was sent to live with humans for a reason but it is never specified and the same goes for this book. It's obvious that she is a whole lot more important than anyone is letting on which is easily seen by how others act around her or look at her when she is in Avalon. I'm hoping that this part of the story is cleared up in book 3 instead of making readers wait until the very last instalment to find out what is really going on.

In both Wings and Spells, I felt that the chemistry between Laurel and David was lacking but this wasn't the case with her and Tamani. While Laurel is unsure about who she should be with, it is clear to me that she is extremely drawn to Tamani and nothing seems to get rid of the feelings she has for him. The small amount of time that they actually spend together proves that there is so much chemistry and could be passion between the two. I'm personally routing for Tamani to get the girl.
The very last chapter sees Laurel finally making a choice between David and Tamani and for me, the most exciting in the whole book. The way the story was left made me want more immediately because I am dying to know what happens next. Just when I though things were finalised, the very last paragraph changed everything. Luckily, there are going to be a total of 4 books in this series and I know I will be buying #3 as soon as it is released.

All of the main characters really come into their own in Spells. I hate to see characters left with hardly any development but everyone changed enough to convince me that they were real, with the events of both books taking a toll on their lives. It seems as though every little thing was taken into account when writing these characters, not leaving any stone unturned when it came to what they were feeling about everything.
Not only does this book explore the relationships between Laurel, David and Tamani but also her relationship with her parents. I felt like these parts of the book were written so well that I could believe in what was going on. Laurel's mother and father have different views on their daughter being a faerie and I can see both of their reasons being realistic. It would be only natural to act differently, in both good and bad ways, towards someone you have known for years when they suddenly change.

I loved Wings but I loved Spells even more. There was enough of different aspects in the story to keep it entertaining with a mixture of paces and it made me feel for the characters so much more than the first book. I'm dying to know when book 3 is going to be released. It will be one of my most highly anticipated releases.

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Sep 18, 2011

Bookish♥Sarah rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: series-read, favorites, read-in-2011

♥ My reviews can be found on Blogger --> Bookish Sarah ♥

- - -

Okay, seriously, just pack my suitcases right now. I am moving to Avalon!

Spells begins a number of months after the events of Wings. The time has come for Laurel to depart from her "normal" life to the academy in Avalon, where she will be taught what it means to be a Fall faerie.

Laurel struggles with learning all of the things she missed and has forgotten while "posing...more

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Aug 19, 2010

Laurel (The Book Garden) rated it

Shelves: recommended, books-i-own, bought-first-hand

Wow!!! What a strong, amazing sequel. There are very rare times for me when I like the second in a series better then the first. But Spells was fantastic! It’s even better then Wings!!!!!!
The cover for Spells is gorgeous. It drew me in again, just like Wings. This book sucks you out when you still want more.

First of all, I’d like to call upon the amazing description in Spells. This book would definitely not be the same without it! It was truly amazing and incredible, m...moreWow!!! What a strong, amazing sequel. There are very rare times for me when I like the second in a series better then the first. But Spells was fantastic! It’s even better then Wings!!!!!!
The cover for Spells is gorgeous. It drew me in again, just like Wings. This book sucks you out when you still want more.

First of all, I’d like to call upon the amazing description in Spells. This book would definitely not be the same without it! It was truly amazing and incredible, making everything seem much more magical. I especially loved the settings in Avalon, they seemed absolutely breathtaking. Again, you learn more on the world of faerie through Avalon. I loved learning about each type of faerie, it seemed so cool. It was interesting how they all lived different lives, as well as the winter were treated the highest, and then the fall, the summer do the entertainment, and then the spring serve. It’s a creative but different take, which made a big splash to me. Spells has a magical quality all its own.

Avalon was so amazing, with all the magic, it had a special feeling to me. It was lovely and quaint? I wish there was more of Avalon. I was glad that they put the New Year’s festival near the end of this book! It was fantastic and it explored much deeper. I loved the ballet/play.

I had tons of questions, so I read on and on. I was so exhilarated the whole time I read this book. I liked how Tamani was more in this book, and you seem to get a wider view on him. I am starting to like him more, except for that move he planted on Laurel at the end of the book with David right there! He was being a jerk.

Again, even though this book deserves a five- star rating, I was still not a big fan of the ending with the trolls, and how they kidnapped Chelsea. It’s funny how she knows what Laurel is, and she tells David and Laurel, once the trolls were gone. But, again, the climax seemed short. That’s probably just me, but………….

Overall, though, Spells was a spectacular sequel worthy of many heights. I can’t wait for the next one!!!!!
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May 20, 2010

Ashley Lavering rated it

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Jul 20, 2011

Jeanine rated it

HHhmmm... What to say. I am having major brain-block. I liked this book and I thought it was a good sequal to Wings. I finally understand what people were experiencing during Twilight when they were upset that Bella didn't go for Jacob, because I am totally not understanding what is so special about.. David? Is that his name? See, I don't think he is very special because I cannot even remember his name and I finished the book this morning. Tamani is where it's at and Laurel better wake up soon a...more

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Nov 29, 2011

Michelle rated it

Shelves: fantasy, romance, teen

Laurel has just turned sixteen and, as agreed, has returned to Avalon to attend the academy. She needs learn about the abilities she has as a fall faerie. While in Avalon she spends more time with Tamani. She feels more torn between her love for her human boyfriend, David, and the exotic Tamani. Soon she will have to decide which boy, and the world they represent, has more pull on her heart.[return][return]I enjoyed this story. It picks up nicely from where Wings ended. It focuses more on ...more

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May 08, 2011

Debora rated it

· review of another edition

Shelves: fisicamente_posseduto, da_autori_e_caseeditrici, read_2011

La favola di Wings continua con il nuovo volume della trilogia: Spells. Sicuramente migliore del precedente, in questo nuovo capitolo della saga l'autrice riesce ad affinare notevolmente il suo stile di scrittura facendo sì che la storia si orizzonti verso una maggiore maturità senza perdere la consona leggerezza che caratterizza i suoi libri.

Anche se non tutti i diffetti di Wings sono stati limati, senza dubbio i personaggi, in Spells, hanno dimostrato fin dalle primissime pagine di essersi not...moreLa favola di Wings continua con il nuovo volume della trilogia: Spells. Sicuramente migliore del precedente, in questo nuovo capitolo della saga l'autrice riesce ad affinare notevolmente il suo stile di scrittura facendo sì che la storia si orizzonti verso una maggiore maturità senza perdere la consona leggerezza che caratterizza i suoi libri.

Anche se non tutti i diffetti di Wings sono stati limati, senza dubbio i personaggi, in Spells, hanno dimostrato fin dalle primissime pagine di essersi notevolmente evoluti, tutti - ma soprattutto Laurel - sono stati costretti a crescere e questo ha reso il romanzo un po' meno fiabesco e decisamente più intrigante, anche se mai cupo. Aprilynne Pike continua a prediligere un'impostazione del romanzo pacata e caratterizzata da uno stile dolce e rilassante; se cercate un libro adrenalitico questa trilogia non fa per voi.

Laurel è una Fata di Avalon. Peccato, però, che da questo piccolo particolare era stata tenuta all'oscuro poichè i suoi simili l'avevano scelta per vivere nel mondo umano affinchè potesse ereditare, dalla famiglia che l'aveva adottata, un terreno che confina con uno dei quattro cancelli che portano alla terra delle Fate. Tutte le stranezze che avevano fatto parte da sempre della sua esistenza trovano un senso quando un magnifico fiore sboccia sulla sua schiena, letteralmente. Dopo aver superato la paura di aver contratto qualche malattia assurda e incurabile, Laurel ha finalmente scoperto la sua natura, il suo amore presente per David e il suo affetto - o forse amore? - per la Fata Primavera Tamani. Ovviamente le buone notizie non viaggiano mai da sole e quindi, oltre ad essersi ritrovata una creatura fatata, sola, fra gli umani, Laurell scopre anche di essere perseguitata dai Troll, intenzionati ad appropriarsi del terreno e del varco per il mondo fatato.

Ora, dopo quasi un anno, Laurell riceve l'invito dal suo popolo a recarsi nel loro mondo per riapprendere tutto ciò che aveva dimenticato anni prima, quando la scelsero per la missione. Tre mesi ad Avalon, in compagnia di Tamani, permetterà a Laurel di prendere coscienza della sua natura, del suo affetto per la fata e delle profonde differenze fra il suo mondo e Avalon.

Questo volume potrebbe essere considerato come un romanzo di approfondimento sull'aspetto "fatato" di Laurell. Come Wings ci aveva mostrato il suo lato "umano", ora in Spells l'autrice ci mostra la sua parte fatata , ignara perfino a lei a causa della sua missione. Scopriamo, assieme alla ragazza, come è organizzata Avalon, le sue tradizioni e i suoi usi. La cosa veramente bella è che il "confronto" fra usi umani e fatati è continuo, Laurel non manca una sola volta di esporre i suoi punti di vista e mai, per nessun motivo, l'autrice permette in nessun modo al lettore di dare per scontato alcunchè di cià che ci viene mostrato di questo nuovo mondo. Attraverso Tamani, il cicerone di Avalon, l'autrice espone e cerca di spiegare a noi - e a Laurel - il perchè di tutte le differenze e usanze che a primo impatto potrebbero risultare assolutamente illogiche. La cosa incredibile è che, alla fine, ogni cosa viene spiegata e il lettore riesce a comprendere il punto di vista delle fate, anche non giustificandolo. E' come se la stessa autrice non volesse dare un appiglio alla povera Laurel, come se non volesse fornirle nessun alibi per sfuggire al peso della responsabilità della sua scelta.

Laurel, infatti, deve scegliere se tornare ad essere una fata con Tamani o restare fra gli umani con David, la sua famiglia e gli amici. Ogni volta che Laurel sembra trovare un aspetto di Avalon che non condivide o che trova assolutamente ingiusto arriva Tamani a spiegarle il punto di vista delle fate... Un adorabile tira e molla.

In realtà in tutto il libro non viviamo la pesantezza che in genere si percepisce di fronte ad un "triangolo amoroso". La scelta della ragazza non sembra essere realmente quella fra due ragazzi ma bensì quella fra due mondi, con tutte le maggiori complicazioni del caso.

Nella seconda metà del romanzo la prepotenza dei sentimenti si fa più forte, Laurell torna nel mondo degli uomini e le cose sembrano precipitare rovinosamente verso la disfatta dal punto di vista sentimentale ma non solo. I Troll si rifanno vivi e vogliono vendetta. Laurel cercherà di mettere a frutto quello che ha imparato ma purtroppo "accedere" alla sua natura fatata le sembrerà quasi impossibile, in famiglia non tutti sembrano aver apprezzato la sua vera natura e David... David è stanco dell'eterna indecisione di Laurell. Dall'altra parte anche Tamani sembra uscire un attimo dallo stato di servile torpore che l'aveva avvolto fino a quel momento e cerca di imporsi gentilmente alla donna che ama, non ottenendo gli effetti sperati...

In un certo senso Spells si può definire un libro di passaggio, nel quale gli avvenimenti più importanti saranno la maturazione di Laurel come fata, come figlia, amica e fidanzata. I momenti d'azione ci saranno ma, come sempre, concentrati nella parte finale del romanzo. Il lettore non si annoia mai e segue con piacere Laurel alle prese con la sua "crescita", questo anche grazie alla gentile ironia dell'autrice che non manca mai di regalare un sorriso, anche fra i pasticci in cui si ficca questa giovane fata "umana".(less)

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Feb 01, 2012

Selin rated it

Artık zaten pek YA almıyorum ama bu serinin atmosfer kurgu değişik gelmişti ancak ne yazık ki yazar bunu pek de kullanamamış.
Zaten başından beri karakterlerin sığ olduğunu düşünüyorum,ama hep ilk kitaptır düzelir gözüyle bakmıştım ama bu kitaptan sonra pike ın hala orta yetenekli bir amatör olduğunu düşünüyorum.
Başı iyi başladı laurel ın perilerin yanında eğitim görmesi bazı gelenekleri yadırgaması olaya gerçeklik kattı mekan betimlemeleride yeterli ölçüdeydi ama 1,5 ayın 50-60 sayfa...more

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Jan 03, 2012

Michelle. Tsunami. rated it

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Jan 03, 2012

Alexis rated it

· review of another edition

The first book was really good, but this one wasn't as great as I was expecting.

I was left disappointed near the end. The story slowly began to lose what had made it so good at first and began to just seem bull and repetitive. I really don't think it needed to be made into a series. It could have all been done in a first book (though it would have been rather long) or just a second if necessary. A lot of stuff was dragged out and by the second book the love triangle is just downright a...more

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Dec 31, 2011

Vivian rated it

2.5 stars

Finally picked up this book. Wasn't expecting much considering Wings. Wasn't disappointed. Met my fairly low expectations.

This book was 10% plot, 90% David vs Tamani and other boring relationship problems

The 10% Plot was basically SPOILER ALERT (You have been warned)
-She goes to the Academy in Avalon and learns the basics to potion making. This was fairly short section. I was expecting it to be like 1/2 the book, which is what generally happens with bo...more

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Dec 23, 2011

Tammy rated it

Beware conservative mothers.

I must be honest, am ticked at these books. My beautiful 12 year old daughter loves these stories and as a mom I like to read what they are reading…and in this case I was glad I did. Here is a very nice story of a faerie and a love triangle written on about a 5th grade level. It has the right amount of action and attraction. BUT, interspersed throughout this story are tales of male enhancement herbs, sex just for fun, and the often “how is he in bed”. ...more

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Nov 16, 2011

Eman rated it

This was a great novel from Aprilynne Pike. I really enjoyed the building of characters and the glimpse into the life of Laurel before she was "human". The world of faerie according to Aprilynne is fascinating, and she really gets me thinking about how Laurel's character might change the faerie world some day.

Now, I really like David. He is an acceptional teenage human boy, who truely loves Laurel. But, in all human and other creature relationships, its not going to be perfe...moreThis was a great novel from Aprilynne Pike. I really enjoyed the building of characters and the glimpse into the life of Laurel before she was "human". The world of faerie according to Aprilynne is fascinating, and she really gets me thinking about how Laurel's character might change the faerie world some day.

Now, I really like David. He is an acceptional teenage human boy, who truely loves Laurel. But, in all human and other creature relationships, its not going to be perfect forever. Laurel is not going to age for sometime and it will start to be noticeable as David does. She is going to stay a faerie and David will age. I like their relationship but I am a bigger fan of Tamani and Laurel.

Tamani has made sacrifices all his life for his true love, even when she can't remember how it used to be. Tamani would never give up on her no matter what, even when he knows how Laurel feels about David. David was willing to serender, but Tamani will never falter. I think Laurel is just afraid of giving into her Faerie life, truthfully.

I loved hearing about their past, meeting Tamani's family which gave me a bigger insight into his character and also what the other faeries thought about the relationship. I was hoping for some of this in Wings but I'm glad it was saved for this book as it was possible for certain things to be explored more thoroughly. The time in Avalon was lovely to read about as Pike's descriptions were magical in themselves. I truly felt like I was walking through the different areas and could understand the faerie hierarchy better because of this.

I really, really wish I could go to Avalon because I gotta admit, it sounds a lot better than the society we are living in.

Once again, I personally root for Tamani to get Laurel because in all truth, DAVID IS BORING. Tamani seems to have this intrigue and even Laurel knows this. I wish this dumb love triangle will end and Laurel ends up with Tamani. David has no development and seems to be lacked throughout the entire book.

The author is extremely descriptive because I am DROOLING to go to Avalon. Great imagery and all. Can't wait for the third book :)
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Nov 11, 2011

Cemara Dinda (Me and the Bookshelf Life) rated it

This is the sequel to Wings and it's about a year after Laurel learns that she is a faerie and the events occurring onwards. In this book it was really about Lauren being sort of torn between two of her worlds. She accepts who she is as a faerie but this also causes a few problems. She is set to Avalon which is the faerie realm for one whole summer. Since she's a Fall Faerie, she has to learn the skills and the ways of being one. The first part of the book was mostly her being in Avalon, I was r...moreThis is the sequel to Wings and it's about a year after Laurel learns that she is a faerie and the events occurring onwards. In this book it was really about Lauren being sort of torn between two of her worlds. She accepts who she is as a faerie but this also causes a few problems. She is set to Avalon which is the faerie realm for one whole summer. Since she's a Fall Faerie, she has to learn the skills and the ways of being one. The first part of the book was mostly her being in Avalon, I was really happy to finally get the chance to read all about it. It was very interesting to read abut this whole faerie caste system in Avalon and the people from her past. I also got to read about the differences between the Summer, Winter and Spring Faeries and they magical powers. Avalon seems like a really beautiful place from the book, but Laurel isn't exactly there to bask in the beauty of Avalon most of the time. She has to come forth to learning and improving her faerie skills. She spends a lot of time reading about faerie craft. I love that Aprilynne didn't go straight into the whole typical situation where once Laurel finds out she's a faerie, she is already fully equipped with faerie powers. Boom- just like that. But no, she actually has to control and make use of her faerie powers.

In Avalon, of course she spends some of her time with Tamani. In the previous book, there was obviously an undeniable connection between Laurel and Tamani. By spending some time with Tamani, their relationship and their feelings begin to develop. This of course resulted in conflicted feelings within Laurel, because, well she is already in a committed relationship with her boyfriend, David. I also got to see their relationship in the book go even deeper and I think I found myself rooting for him. Hmm.

So, after Avalon, she has to come back home. And once she's home, she has to cope with different challenges. Now that she's a faerie, and both her parents knows it, she has to cope with their feelings about her new faerie ancestry. And in the previous book, there was the threat of the trolls to Laurel's life. And in this book, the problems doesn't end, and what with Laurel's conflicted feelings, she has to deal with a lot of things in this book. For me personally I think that the synopsis above might be a little bit ambiguous. When I first read it, I was thinking "Oh, okay. More romance. I understand". But when I read the book, it's not wholly about the whole love triangle drama. It was also about Laurel discovering more of herself, coming in to her own. Once again, what I like about Aprilynne, she doesn't take the typical approach with Laurel, the heroine of this story.

Laurel is not a character who is very dramatic, with an in-your-face disposition to her, who obsesses over boys all the time. She's a quiet heroine, with her own strength, and she's also a little bit vulnerable. Her relationships with Tamani and David is obviously an essence to the story but she also has her responsibilities in the human world and in the faerie world. She still has the love of her friends and family, that is also important to her. She makes her fair share of mistakes, and she is not the character that has to always be saved by someone. She even puts her life in line to rescue someone she loves. Laurel was a really tough cookie in this book, but with her vulnerability she still has her share of mistakes and faults. Between Tamani and David, she still manages to keep composure and stand on her ground. Even when she has to make that one decision.

In Spells, you really got to know more of the characters in Wings. Not only that but more knowledge of the faerie world, the culture and the responsibilities that the faerie has, especially in Avalon. I also loved the friendship between Laurel's friend Chelsea and there are even some fresh faces in the story. Aprilynne's writing is very pleasant and I can't wait to read the third book and see how Laurel develops. You rock!
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Sep 29, 2011

Mary rated it

Shelves: high-school-books, middle-school-books, fairies, fantasy

Laurel's re-education about fairy life continues in this sequel to Wings, when she spends the summer at the Avalon Academy learning how to mix potions, dress like a fairy, and fight trolls. Laurel, David and her family are in greater danger than before from Mr. Barnes, who now seeks revenge for Laurel's actions in the earlier book. Additionally, her feelings for both David and Tamani intensify to the point where she knows that she will be forced to choose between them in order to be fair to both...more

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Sep 28, 2011

Nousha rated it

I gave 3 stars to the first book of the series but now I can't honestly give more than two, having in mind that I had to read it very, very carefully and translate it into Bulgarian. Boy, who taught that girl writing? She starts her "Acknowledgements" with "The more I learn about publishing, the less credit I think authors deserve." Yeah, right. I don't know about the other authors, but it is definitely true about herself. It's poorly written - I got fed up of smiling, grinni...more

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Aug 21, 2011

Dori rated it

I really liked this book. It was even better than the first in my opinion.
For me, the measure of a really great book is it's ability to take the reader away from everyday life and make them feel like they are part of the story.
I think Aprilynne Pike has really moved forward in terms of the growth of her writing. I liked the first novel but it didn't pull me in like this did. I thought she really made the characters grow here and it made the story come alive.
I loved the way sh...moreI really liked this book. It was even better than the first in my opinion.
For me, the measure of a really great book is it's ability to take the reader away from everyday life and make them feel like they are part of the story.
I think Aprilynne Pike has really moved forward in terms of the growth of her writing. I liked the first novel but it didn't pull me in like this did. I thought she really made the characters grow here and it made the story come alive.
I loved the way she made Avalon, and the way faeries have apparently influenced humans was great, very chuckle inducing. (In an AHH now I FINALLY understand history kind of way.) I really loved the referances to Laurel's past, I wish there was a way to remove the memory block so that her early years could be remembered and help shape her personality in a more faery esque direction.
I really like the love triangle created in this series. It's more than just a plain old trianlge, basically the choice is between embracing a life she doesn't remember (and letting go of the only life she can remember having) or clinging to the life she's most comfortable in. Personally I hope she ends up with Tamani, because that means that she embraces what she is. She can't really have a future with David, though he is a wonderful human he just won't live as long as she, and from what I understand of the faerie reproductive system the job cannot be done by a human. Although Pike could through a freaky Twilight like twist in there and make the story suck by suddenly making it possible...
I think I shed a tear or two in the part where this quote comes from, "Tell me," he said, his voice sharp and demanding. "Tell me David is all you need or want in your life." His face was close to her, his soft breath caressing her face. "That you never think of me when you're kissing him. That you don't dream about me the way I dream about you. Tell me you don't love me. ".
Thats whole situation broke my heart because I felt like she knows she's meant to be with him, but she's too afraid to admit to it because she thinks that will mean loosing the humans she loves.
Anyways, I loved this book, I can't wait for the next in the series and based on this second edition I would reccomend the series to anyone who is interested. (less)

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Jul 27, 2011

Sara rated it

Shelves: 5-stars

Plot: 5 Stars
An interesting part of this novel was how a major plot point was very similar to a lot of YA series second novels, while being wildly different. Instead of the mysterious, paranormal bad boy disappearing for the main character's "own good" (think Edward in New Moon), Laurel leaved David to go learn more about being a Fall faerie. She is not leaving to save David or keep him out of trouble. She leaves for the summer in order to better prepare and defend herself. The p...morePlot: 5 Stars
An interesting part of this novel was how a major plot point was very similar to a lot of YA series second novels, while being wildly different. Instead of the mysterious, paranormal bad boy disappearing for the main character's "own good" (think Edward in New Moon), Laurel leaved David to go learn more about being a Fall faerie. She is not leaving to save David or keep him out of trouble. She leaves for the summer in order to better prepare and defend herself. The plot of this novel definitely takes a couple twists I was not expecting, and the ending had me biting my nails. As much as I fell in love with Wings a couple years ago (before I started blogging), I think Spells was even better and I can't wait to start book three!

Pace: 5 Stars
This was one of those novels I would have gobbled up in one sitting if life didn't get in the way. But sadly I had to put it down a couple times to go to work. And eat, since I didn't want to get any food on the pages. There was never a point in the novel in which the pace slowed down or started wandering off in an off-topic direction. I was glued to the pages until I got to the very end.

Characters: 5 Stars
This novel was all about growth for these characters. Laurel got to learn more about being a faerie at the academy. All of the reading and the notecards and the homework after she left didn't sound like a lot of fun for her, but it was still very interesting to read about. We got to learn more about Tamani and his family, and see him interact with more faeries. The dynamic between Laurel and her parents was different from the first novel, and the way they worked through the difficulties came across very real.

Cover: 4.5 Stars
I love the beauty and simplicity of this cover, although my heart will always love the cover of Wings the most. But the mix of very natural greens and browns in the water with the bright pink of the flowers and title is very eye-catching. The choice of a simple, cursive font fits the story very well. I really love the Paranormal Young Adult series that have these simple covers involving flowers because they allow the consumer/reader to get a feel for the mood of the book without forcing them to visualize the main character a certain way. I don't know about anyone else, but once I've seen the character (either on the cover or the actor playing the character), I lose the image I had crafted in my mind. Plus, the bright colors of this cover really fits Laurel's personality.

Overall: 5 Stars

Disclosure: I bought this novel for my own reading pleasure. (less)

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Jul 01, 2011

Dawnandwini rated it

This is the sequel to WINGS!
This book takes you deeper into the chronicle of faeries. We know a little more about Avalon, a faerie realm where you train to be the fey of your cast and…
Spell has lodes of exciting quest and is fast paced and thrilling.
Romantic relationships and heartbreak are in order and creepy new characters.
Laurel has the best of both worlds and I still think she should be with Tam! This was a good read and I can’t wait for the book next series…
The c...more

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Jun 22, 2011

Stephanie rated it

SPELLS
Aprilynne Pike

Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: HarperTeen; Reprint edition (May 3, 2011)

Hardcover: 368 pages
Publisher: HarperTeen; 1 edition (May 4, 2010)

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 408 KB
Print Length: 368 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0061668060
Publisher: HarperCollins e-books; 1 edition (May 3, 2010)
Sold by: HarperCollins Publishers

...more

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Jun 06, 2011

Christy And Danielle rated it

Spells is the sequel to Wings by Aprilynne Pike... and very bit just as good as the first book.

I like the way Laurel has struggles that she faces and is strong enough to face them on her own, but smart enough to ask for help when she knows she is in over her head. I didn't really like how wishy washy she was with Tam the entire time, but in the end she corrected her misdoings. I am forever going to be angry at the way the book ended :) Such a cliffhanger is just not fair.

...more

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Jun 06, 2011

Elizabeth "Liza" rated it

Shelves: fairies, ya, series

This is the first audio book that I have tried. I told myself that it was a good idea to try it since I spend about one hour in my car commuting to work. How was the experience you ask? I think I like it enough that I will be checking another audio book from my library soon. The pros - I was able to 'read' another book (it took me about two weeks to finish it) and the actor that read the book was really good. The cons - since this is a book about fairies, it was hard to follow certain parts...more

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May 17, 2011

Savannah rated it

Shelves: reviewed

Spells looks like just another fantasy/romance novel for teens, but it has elements that really surpass that expectation.

The main character, Laurel, has a likable personality, but the best part is that she makes real mistakes. The two possible love interests, David and Tamani, are both quite enjoyable. Even if you prefer one romance over the other, you find yourself wanting them all to live happily ever after.

And, thankfully, the romance isn't the only part of the book. L...more

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Apr 19, 2011

Pia rated it

· review of another edition

Vielen Dank an cbj für die Bereitstellung dieses Rezensionsexemplars!

Beschreibung:
Als Laurel den Sommer in Avalon verbringt, wo sie die Lebensweise der Elfen kennenlernen soll, rückt die Menschenwelt für sie in weite Ferne. Dabei konnte Laurel sich die Zeit ohne ihren Freund David erst gar nicht vorstellen. Aber jetzt, in der Elfenwelt, ist alles neu, alles so wundersam – und da ist der attraktive, geheimnisvolle Frühlingself Tamani, der ihr zur Seite steht und der sie liebt, ...more

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Mar 20, 2011

Amber Murphy rated it

I knew when I finished Wings it was going to be hard to live up to, but Spells did that and more. The book takes you deeper into the history of faeries. A lot of the book is spent in Avalon, the faerie realm, where you learn about the roles and responsibilities of faeries as well as the class divisions among different types of faeries. The book has a lot of adventure and is fast paced and exciting. I think by the time you've finished the book you will be even more invested in certain romanti...more

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Mar 10, 2011

Dena rated it

Shelves: young-adult, lds-authors

I wasn't going to write anything about this one but after reading a few reviews I thought I would. Yes, I gave it 4 stars just because it was sorta cute, but I don't really think it should have 4 stars.

First off, why is this a series named Wings when no one has wings? It is a blossom. It just makes no sense to me. Secondly, Laurel is a plant. Did you read that? P-L-A-N-T. She doesn't bleed, shouldn't have lungs (but apparently she does), she shouldn't need to use the bathroom (how w...more

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About Aprilynne Pike

Aprilynne Pike has been spinning faerie stories since she was a child with a hyper-active imagination. At the age of twenty she received her BA in Creative Writing from Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho. When not writing, Aprilynne can usually be found at the gym; she also enjoys singing, acting, reading, and working with pregnant moms as a childbirth educator and doula. Aprilynne curre...more

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Quotes from Spells

“Are you free to be anything more than a friend to me? If," and she stressed the if heavily, "I ever decided to live in Avalon and wanted to be with you, would you be free enough to do that?"
He looked away, and Laurel could tell he'd been avoiding a conversation like this.
"Well?" she insisted.
"If you wanted it," he finally said.
"If I wanted it?"
He nodded. "I'm not allowed to ask. You would have to ask me."
Her breath caught in her chest, and Tamani looked at her.
"Why do you think David bothers me so much?"
Laurel looked down at her lap.
"I can't just storm in and proclaim my intentions. I can't 'steal' you away. I just have to wait and hope that, someday, you'll ask."
"And if I don't?" Laurel said, her voice barley above a whisper.
"Then I guess I'll wait forever.” — 181 people liked it

“Tell me," he said, his voice sharp and demanding. "Tell me David is all you need or want out of life." Ηis face was close to her, his soft breath caressing her face. "Τhat you never think of me when you are kissing him, that you don't dream of me the way I dream of you. Tell me you don't love me.” — 156 people liked it

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Spells (Wings #2)

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