Never have I ever read a novel that was both quite so enjoyable and in quite such a need of editing. That's not to say that there was anything wrong w...moreNever have I ever read a novel that was both quite so enjoyable and in quite such a need of editing. That's not to say that there was anything wrong with the writing, I really enjoy Libba Bray's style, but it was too long, in a way where I feel like "too long" is quite an understatement.
A book set in the 1920s with flappers and a paranormal mystery was always going to be fun, particularly in the hands of Libba Bray, but it needed to be at least a third of the length shorter. There were so many scenes that seemed utterly excessive to me and as I was listening to the audiobook it was impossible to skim ahead - not that I should need to.
I really liked the story, the wonderfully colourful range of characters, the suspense, but I don't think I can last through a sequel of the same extent.(less)
Without fail, Meg Cabot writes incredibly kickass teen heroines. They always control the narrative and the action even when, as is the case in this st...moreWithout fail, Meg Cabot writes incredibly kickass teen heroines. They always control the narrative and the action even when, as is the case in this story, it seems unlikely given the heroine's background.
This is probably my least favourite of all her teen novels (my favourites being the Mediator Series), partly because I’m not a big fan of past life story lines.
Avalon High was also a little too heavy on the interior monologue. This is a frequent issue for me in YA, but in this novel it was particularly excessive, though that may be simply because I expect more from Cabot.
It was a fun read, but I'm still sad the Mediator Series is over and struggling to enjoy anything so much by comparison. ;) (less)
A fun historical romance. The story of a fallen countess working below stairs and inevitably falling for the master has been done before, but Ibbotson...moreA fun historical romance. The story of a fallen countess working below stairs and inevitably falling for the master has been done before, but Ibbotson had a refreshing approach and made this a really enjoyable read.
Despite fitting their necessarily predictable roles, the characters were full and detailed, from the lovable heroes to the hateful villains.
I must say, Ibbotson walked a very fine line between mocking disablism and committing it herself. I'm not sure whether she crossed the line or not, to be honest...
Then there was the ending, which was ... really just weird and random. Talk about a deus ex machina! I'm not sure what to make of it, actually, but I want to try more of her stories because the bulk of this novel was enjoyable and I need more fun historical romance in my life!(less)
I really can't decide my own opinion of this book.
Oppel's writing is beautiful and quite hypnotic. The premise is interesting (a look into Frankenstei...moreI really can't decide my own opinion of this book.
Oppel's writing is beautiful and quite hypnotic. The premise is interesting (a look into Frankenstein's teen years) and Oppel follows through with the concept really well. We get insight into Victor Frankenstein's understandings and changing opinions of science and religion, and how these things interconnect as belief systems. We also get fascinating insight into Victor's changing morality, the impact of love, understandings of truth, his questionable self-deceptions and dubious motivations. I really enjoyed these aspects of the story.
I think this must be one of the first young adult novels I've read (at least recently) in which the main character is not meant to be either relatable or likable. I admire Oppel for achieving this and he really did it well, but in some ways it made the story difficult to read. I *think* this is actually a good thing.
However, I really needed a little balance from the other characters or some reader-desire, something more to push me through, and I didn't get that. I don't think Victor's character insight was enough to hold the book up by itself. I needed more reason to read on.
The real issue for me, though, lay with the character Elizabeth. She seems entirely designed for Victor's tormented desire, and while again, this maybe gives us insight into his character as the novel is from his perspective, I found her characterisation *really* squeamish. ICK! I couldn't handle it. Gross gross gross. I also think that putting her characterisation down to Victor's perspective may be being a little generous, and that Oppel might want to reconsider his depiction of women, no matter how driven they are. (less)
Fantastic! This book had me grinning from ear to ear throughout the entire adventure.
Though the plot is very different from the film adaptation of the...moreFantastic! This book had me grinning from ear to ear throughout the entire adventure.
Though the plot is very different from the film adaptation of the same name, the original How to Train your Dragon is clearly the source for the lovely David vs Goliath morals of the film. If anything this is much stronger in the book, since, unlike in the film, Toothless is actually toothless. Little Hiccup and Toothless truly are the tiny heroes of Right over Might. That said, as in the film I was a little sad for the big dragons at the end who really were just hungry. I get angry when I'm hungry too and I'm not sure that means I deserve to die. ;)
The ONLY downside of this story is the lack of female characters. There is only one female character, Hiccup's mother, who is mentioned off hand three times and receives one line of dialogue. All the same, I wasn't too bothered. A couple of girls in the Viking class would have created a nice balance and possibly provided broader appeal for the book, without taking away from the boyish appeal. However, the main female character of the film felt like she was only there to create a love interest, which I was happy I didn’t have to suffer through in the book. Even without a girl in the story, How to Train your Dragon is a lovely read for girls and boys alike. More importantly it advocates a sense of fun and heroism that is about caring and intelligence, rather than the aggressive masculinity that is so exhaustingly common in most hero stories for boys.
Love love love. I'm already half way through the second in the series and intend to gobble up the lot quick snap. (see, now I have delusions of becoming a dragon).
Unearthly is an angel story. This is a subset of the paranormal genre that I have slowly learned to despise. Hush Hush and Fallen, two of my least fav...moreUnearthly is an angel story. This is a subset of the paranormal genre that I have slowly learned to despise. Hush Hush and Fallen, two of my least favourite books of all time, in the whole world, ever, are part of this genre. And yet, I absolutely LOVED "Unearthly".
Clara is an angel blood (part angel) who must learn to understand and fulfill her fate. I can't remember why I picked up this book in the first place, because the premise is really everything I've ever hated in young adult fiction. But Cynthia Hand took all my expectations and turned me into an angel loving fan girl.
I loved the development of all the characters. Clara is likable, as are her boy toys and her friends, all of which have distinct and interesting personalities that play vital aspects in the plot. Clara is an opinionated, driven, strong character, but she's also just a teenager who wants to find her place in the world, fit in at school and not make a fool of herself in front of the boy she likes. More importantly, she's going to rescue the boy, whether or not that's what she's supposed to do. LOVE.
Which brings me to the fate issue. Usually I find any fate storyline problematic, and I'm still holding my breath a little for the fallout in the sequel, but I have to say it was so well done in "Unearthly". I was dubious about the angel-esque destiny issues, which are usually used to move the plot forward (for better or worse, usually worse), but while her destiny was an important issue for Clara, it was primarily used to facilitate discussion of teenage pressures and expectations of authority. Rather than being controlled by the plot or any such sell out narrative device like fate, Clara was well in control of her story. At least, as much as any well developed confused teen angel can be.
I'm deducting one star because Clara fainted. And this annoyed me. But other than that I strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes school paranormal romance with active female protagonists.(less)
Iron Thorn is a really hard book for me to review. All the way through, I kept thinking I should be enjoying it, but wasn’t. It was only my third samp...moreIron Thorn is a really hard book for me to review. All the way through, I kept thinking I should be enjoying it, but wasn’t. It was only my third sample of steampunk, a genre for which I am still holding off judgement. I must admit that the world building was fantastic in a lot of ways. I liked the creature mythology, but struggled to feel comfortable with some of the alternate history aspects, which didn’t always seem to mesh well. This is probably my issue more than that of the book, but it made it difficult for me to relax into the tale. My biggest issue, however, lay with the characters. I didn’t understand Aoife’s motivations, and found the relationship between her and her friend Cal really difficult. They both treated each other like crap. As for the love interest storyline: I couldn’t stand Dean. His nicknames for Aoife made me want to vom. “Princess” and “Kid” are not, I repeat NOT, sexy nicknames. No.
The Last City is an intense combination of fantasy and sci-fi with a touch of noir. I have never read anything quite like it.
I will admit that the com...moreThe Last City is an intense combination of fantasy and sci-fi with a touch of noir. I have never read anything quite like it.
I will admit that the combination of genres made it initially a little difficult to get my head into the story, but D’Aleo’s incredible world building soon sucked me in. There is an ease to the world building in The Last City which comes as something as a surprise given the genre combination. The fantastical creatures, sci-fi tech, and futuristic landscape are all described in a way that fits well into the narrative without becoming overwhelming, and instead fills the story with a rich texture.
In terms of characterization, D'Aleo manages to write interesting insight into each of her characters. All the characters are explored thoroughly throughout the novel and make up a fascinating reading of the different aspects of humanity. That said, there were maybe a few too many characters and at times I found myself struggling to keep my ducks in a row as the characters and bouncing point of view became a little convoluted.
My favourite character was Eli, and I would have been happy had the entire novel been from his point of view, though this would have also created a lot of limitations on the story’s narrative. D'Aleo has a wicked sense of humour that comes out through Eli's personality, which is a nice break from the often heart breaking nature of this novel and indeed this character.
I'm really looking forward to the sequel!
The Last City loses an extra star because, despite her heroism, Silho was unconscious for much of the action which is one of my pet peeves, but gains a star because I REALLY want a pet otter. (less)
Marissa Meyer’s Cinder is like Blade Runner goes young adult/fairy tale. And it totally works.
I’m not usually a fan of Cinderella stories (except the...moreMarissa Meyer’s Cinder is like Blade Runner goes young adult/fairy tale. And it totally works.
I’m not usually a fan of Cinderella stories (except the version where the step-sisters hack off their heels, because the gore factor appeals to me), but this cyborg Cinderella is rocking. Meyers world has a very Philip K Dick feel to it, but the nuances of her world building are unique and flawlessly incorporated into the story.
The fairy tale adaptation aspect of this story is blatant. There’s certainly no denying this is a Cinderella story, and yet, Meyer has avoided a stale take by rewriting it in such a colorful new world. Equally, while I enjoyed the romance, I liked it even more that Meyer gives her protagonist so much more plot and action than that driven by the romance story line.
It was Meyers use of this science-fiction-fairy-tale to discuss difference, though, that really grabbed my attention.
Cinder is set in a future version of Earth, where race appears to be unidentifiable by anything such as skin colour. It is set in Asia, in New Beijing, which has the wonderful effect of recalling the old Chinese versions of Cinderella, while confusing our expectations of race and ethnicity in a story that has come to mean so much in Western culture. However, while race is not defined through our contemporary notions, there are clear hierarchies of difference and race in Meyer’s world.
In the world of Cinder, there is an ongoing animosity between Earth and the Lunars, a civilization of magical people who live on the moon. The hatred between the civilizations is profound, and, interestingly, the propaganda around the Lunars depicts them in a way similar to past Western depictions of Eastern civilizations, such as having a wiliness that is dependent on beauty and extravagance. As the story progresses, however, it becomes clear that the hatred of the Lunars is not entirely justified and, as readers, our alliances become troubled. I like the way Meyer assumes the idea of an Earth without racial divide, only to create a new civilization to discuss and question our current and historical, societal issues around race. She leads us to assume the racism of her characters and then forces us to reassess that position.
Equally, Cinder‘s world has disturbing hierarchies around disability. Meyer uses the idea of cyborgs, humans with mechanical and computerised body parts, to create a hierarchy of worth among the humans in her story. As a cyborg herself, the recipient of a bionic foot, Linh Cinder experiences discrimination and social ostracism, which becomes apparent almost as soon as the story opens. As the tale progresses, we find out that the government is openly using cyborgs to test vaccines for a plague that is ravishing the humans of the Earth. Meyer makes it clear that in Cinder’s world the hierarchy between humans and cyborgs is a big part of their culture.
The government in Cinder willingly sacrifices the lives of cyborgs for humans, without any pretence to suggest they should do otherwise. Cyborgs such as Cinder are seen as less than human, in fact they are allocated a percentage of humanness (Cinder being 36.28% not human), based on the level of mechanical aids they use. Through this story, Meyer discusses issues of disability discrimination, when people are seen as somehow “less than” due to their disability. Equally, we get hints of issues such as the way our society views the worth of human lives when they are seen as different, particularly in regard to the need of physical and medical aids.
Although I found that some of the writing, with occasionally problematic grammar, sometimes jarred me back to reality, and while I choked that the tale ended in a cliff hanger, this was my favourite young adult novel of 2012, and I’m giving it that rare five out of five stars.
Cinder is the story of a girl who wants to go to a ball, falls in love with a prince, fights to save her family and friends, and tries to come to grips with her identity in a world that rejects, rather than celebrates, difference. I really look forward to the next installment.
Thank you for writing Blackwood for me, and presumably your other readers. I greatly enjoyed our time together. I loved your characte...moreDear Gwenda Bond,
Thank you for writing Blackwood for me, and presumably your other readers. I greatly enjoyed our time together. I loved your characters, and was particularly heartened by the relationship between the two protagonists Miranda and Philips. The plot of "Blackwood" was a creative contemporary YA fantasy take on a classic historical mystery and, I must say, I was really quite taken.
It is true you can buy my love with Battlestar Galactica and Firefly references, and I applaud your decision to exploit this. The narrative was a little slow at times. With that in mind, I would love more actions sequences and a greater commitment to dialogue next time, please (thank you).
I see great things for the future of our relationship together. I know I can be a little demanding, but I'm sure you will see that I only want the best for you, and your next novel.
"Magic Bites" was an enjoyable paranormal fantasy with a relatively kickass heroine.
Unfortunately, there were too many characters without enough subs...more"Magic Bites" was an enjoyable paranormal fantasy with a relatively kickass heroine.
Unfortunately, there were too many characters without enough substance. Reader request to writers: if you have a character that only appears in one scene, consider what he/she adds to the story and consider whether another existing character might be able to fulfil that role. Then remember Holly telling you: fewer characters is often SO much better.
It also aggravated me that the heroine had a secret that was never revealed to the reader. So frustrating! I find this irritating particularly in stories written in first person. At least tell me before the end! I would have preferred Kate to be a little less self-deprecating, or at least be a little more humorous about it. Still, I always love a rockin’ heroine with awesome fight moves and a problem with authority.
This was a good story, but nothing special. I don't think I will read the rest of the series, though I don't regret reading this one. If you're feeling low on paranormal fantasies with a touch of romance, give "Magic Bites" a go.(less)
It is refreshing to read a story for young boys that doesn't have violence and a need for the protagonist to rescue the world as its main themes.
I'm...moreIt is refreshing to read a story for young boys that doesn't have violence and a need for the protagonist to rescue the world as its main themes.
I'm interested to read the rest of this series, but I must admit that a lot of it made me uncomfortable. The strict division between girls and boys in the story was intense, as was a clear phobia about crossing these gender boundaries. While this book is directed at an age group when gender boundaries are a topic of particular interest, the way this was depicted in the story was... icky. Yes, icky. The idea that boys are only interested in wresting and girls in make-up... well, sigh. I rather wish books like this would make more of an effort to undermine these boundaries rather than assert them.
Also, why is Greg so mean, hateful and ungrateful? I found this characterisation really sad. I hope there is more about the best friend, Rowley, and Greg’s little brother in the next books as they were my favourite characters. Perhaps it would also be nice to see a (any) female character who isn't the mother.(less)
"Dark Spaces" is an intriguing collection of short stories designed to make the reader uncomfortable. Some of the stories work particularly well, such...more"Dark Spaces" is an intriguing collection of short stories designed to make the reader uncomfortable. Some of the stories work particularly well, such as the flash piece "Timmy's Escape" which is deeply unsettling and manages to supplant chills under the skin in under 350 words. I expected more from a few of the stories, including the fairly predictable "Sarah's Story" about a woman contemplating her love for her child while watching a news report about a missing baby. However, I especially enjoyed "The Presentation", as well as "Breathe in Autumn", which I'm going to have trouble forgetting when I go for my next afternoon walk. Both of these were disturbing and disturbingly satisfying. Overall, Dionne Lister's writing is well paced and her plots are gripping. This anthology is worth the read, but don't read it at night.(less)
This is my second time straight through the Georgia Nicholson series and I'm loving it. Georgia is so dreadfully honest and so un-pc, that I spend eve...moreThis is my second time straight through the Georgia Nicholson series and I'm loving it. Georgia is so dreadfully honest and so un-pc, that I spend every minute of the series laughing like "a loon on loon pills". Speaking of, Rennison has done a brilliant job of creating Georgia's voice. It is perfection. Her terminology and turns of phrase crack me up and are quite addictive. Here's an example from the glossary from the website, parts of which are also included at the end of each book:
"arvie Afternoon. From the Latin “arvo.” Possibly. As in the famous Latin invitation: “Lettus meetus this arvo.”"
Excellent.
The only problem is that, after a day with Georgia, I end up speaking and writing like a complete "div" because I want to adopt her language in every other sentence. As Georgia says, "English is an exciting and growing language. It is. Believe me. Just leave it at that. Accept it." - a girl after my own heart.
The brilliance of the Georgia Nicholson series, though, isn't only in the language, but also in the way Rennison treats Georgia's relationships. Though written from Georgia's point of view (diary style), she portrays the reality's of Georgia's relationships with her family, friends, cat (etc) with insight that is clear despite Georgia's own frequent delusions.
Her sister is probably my favourite character. Although a great deal of the description is regarding her naughty behaviour, or her insistence on calling Georgia "bad boy", the relationship between the two sisters is the sweetest.
Yay! I'm only up to book four, which means there are seven more books to go on this reread! Marvy!!!(less)
I’m sorry to say that Faerie Tale bored me to tears. I wasn’t literally curled up on the floor, sobbing into my arms from shear lack of interest, but...moreI’m sorry to say that Faerie Tale bored me to tears. I wasn’t literally curled up on the floor, sobbing into my arms from shear lack of interest, but it was a near thing. I kept thinking the story should appeal to me. The plot had so much potential, but I couldn’t care less about any of the characters. The narrative was well written in terms of grammar etc, but there was no edge, no action, and no voice – not no appealing voice, just no voice. I was also very confused by the depiction of childhood… maybe this is an 80s generation gap issue. The only time I became endeared to the text was through my 12 year old mind’s response to language such as “intercourse”. It made me laugh, but I don’t think that’s a good thing in this particular case.
Gosh. OK. So here’s the thing. I sort of, vaguely, really, quite a bit, maybe enjoyed the first in this series, Homicide in Hardcover. I mean, it was...moreGosh. OK. So here’s the thing. I sort of, vaguely, really, quite a bit, maybe enjoyed the first in this series, Homicide in Hardcover. I mean, it was a fun, trashy chick-lit-detective story that made for a relaxing read. The hero, Derek, rescued and patronised a little too much for my liking, and the heroine, Brooklyn, fainted more often than I could bear. Yet, despite the occasional stereotype, minority representation was good in this book, and it was basically a fun read.
However, the second in the series, If Books could Kill, became simply ridiculous. Although the protagonist was visiting Edinburgh (from San Francisco – the setting for Book 1), nearly the entire cast from the first book, randomly turned up again in the second. The plot turns made next to no sense, and by the end of the story I just wanted to punch Brooklyn hard in the face. I had been a little confused in the first book by some of her decision making processes, but by half way through the second book, I began to presume she had suffered brain damage during one of her fainting episodes – she couldn’t be naturally so stupid, surely?!
Also (and I really can’t believe I need to bring this up), in what world are enemas and colonics considered cause for repeated discussion in any novel? (less)
OK, so I'm weirdly hooked on this series. I want more, MORE I SAY!
The weird part is that I REALLY hate the characters (and I think maybe I'm meant to...moreOK, so I'm weirdly hooked on this series. I want more, MORE I SAY!
The weird part is that I REALLY hate the characters (and I think maybe I'm meant to like/relate to them) Dess is a pretty cool, interesting character, but apart from that the Midnighters are a bunch of selfish, bitchy *insert expletive here*. After the first book I was hoping for a little more character depth, which I'm pleased to say I got. Yes, it made me hate all the characters that little bit more, but at least it made them a little more interesting. The development of Rex and Melissa's relationship is a bit blergh. As for Jonathon and Jessica's relationship, it's just a little confusing: she's needy, he's distant, their both pretty boring. Oh but he gave her jewellery! *rolls eyes*
Anyway, back to Dess - the series should just be about her, from her perspective, and I'd be happy. Her disdain for the couples matches my feelings for the other character's relationships exactly. I loved her secret discoveries in this book and hope that in the next book she becomes a little more active. Take some control, Girl!
I can't wait to see what happens with Rex. I hope he turns evil and eats all the other Midnighters, except Dess and then she defeats him and rules the world. (or not, but, like, also totally).(less)
This book was pretty incredibly shit. The main character, Atticus, had next to no appeal - his dog was the most likable character, and even he had a f...moreThis book was pretty incredibly shit. The main character, Atticus, had next to no appeal - his dog was the most likable character, and even he had a fetish for French poodles that became repetitive rather than amusing. The mythology was boring - lore that has been so done, which would probably be fine if the characters were interesting enough to hold it up. The plot was wholly driven by the main character's desire to survive, and considering I didn't care whether he lived or died, I wasn't really compelled. I think one of the biggest faults was that the there was a huge disconnect between the character and his surrounds. Being 2000 years old, Atticus apparently no longer cared about the wellbeing of other humans/creatures. As a result, the relationships he made felt completely detached, and were, therefore, boring.
Oh well, I'll probably read the rest of the series just to see how his dog gets on with those French poodles, I spose.(less)
“The Right Connection” is a fantasy-romance about Taylor, a soldier determined to save missing children from the clutches of the enemy. In order for t...more“The Right Connection” is a fantasy-romance about Taylor, a soldier determined to save missing children from the clutches of the enemy. In order for the mission to be a success, she must develop a psychic connection with fighter Roden. However, Taylor’s last such connection with a male fighter ended in her sexual assault, a terrible history which she must overcome for the wellbeing of the children.
As you might imagine, given this is a romance story, a connection develops between Taylor and Roden on a deeper level than that required for the mission, but there are a number of twists and turns along the way, and this connection in itself becomes an issue with which Taylor must contend.
I really didn’t know what to expect from “The Right Connection”, mostly because I’m more familiar with contemporary urban fantasy stories than those set in an invented or altered world. Often I find these sort of fantasies can be draining, particularly if the world building comes to dominate the story and detract from the plot and characters, which are what I’m really interested in. This was not the case with “The Right Connection”. Murphy successfully and seamlessly wove her world building into the plot without seeming pretentious and without becoming confusing. It was also not excessive, rather assumed the reader had the imagination to fill in the gaps. I really appreciated this.
The characterisation was good. I found Taylor to be an accessible and relatable character. She wasn’t boring either, but had a developed sense of independence and strength, combined with a desire for self improvement, which was quite refreshing. I didn’t particularly like Roden. His arrogance irritated me, though I realise this is a trait desired and enjoyed by many romance readers as part of the character’s development. Certainly, his vulnerability was also captured and developed nicely as the story progressed. Murphy’s snappy sense of humour is definitely catching, and comes through in both the hero and heroine’s characterisations as endearing and appealing.
The sexual assault story was particularly interesting. This is one of those times when fantasy is used to deal with a difficult subject, and in this case it was done really well. Interestingly, Taylor explains that, despite having overcome the physical trauma of the incident and having had sex since, she continues to be burdened with an emotional trauma which affects her on a much deeper level. She comes to realise that her ability to trust another man psychologically, or psychically, is the real problem that she must deal with. I think, in this respect, “The Right Connection” has made a very perceptive discussion of a very complex issue. Also, in this respect, I think that Roden was a good character, since it is his understanding of Taylor that allows her to eventually trust him.
Ok, now in order to discuss the point at which Murphy really won me over, I’m going to have to put a SPOILER ALERT!!!!
Now, I really like romance stories. I really do, but there is a common gender power imbalance that is depicted all too often in romance, in which, one way or another, masculine power wins out. I’m not saying this happens every time, but it is a definite theme, and one that annoys me. This is quite different in “The Right Connection”, as I said, there are hints of it in Roden’s arrogance, but this doesn’t play out to the end. Quite the opposite is actually the case. Equally, Taylor is probably just as arrogant in her own right anyway – I just liked it more from her, heh. As the story ends, however, there is an important plot turn, which really affects the gendered themes and my ultimate reading. (view spoiler)[We still get the happy families ending, which I would be sad without, but Taylor continues to work as a soldier, alongside Roden (after Taylor saves him, I might add). More importantly, though, is the development of the war story, in which feminine strength wins out. Rather than the war being won through violence, as we might expect the hero riding in to save the day with a hack here, a stab there, in “The Right Connection”, the war is ended through discussion (of sorts), the development of mutual understanding and a desire for peace, orchestrated by Taylor, who shows that feminine strength can be more powerful than masculine aggression. This is so unusual, and just so great. I really loved this touch. (hide spoiler)]
“The Right Connection” is a fun read that deals with some heavy issues along the way. I was completely invested in the love story, enjoyed the plot, and ended the story in happy-tears. Always a good thing from a tragic romantic. (less)
Ok. I'm giving Paranormalcy 3 stars, but to be honest, I just can't decide what I think of it. (So yes, before you read on, it is probably reasonable...moreOk. I'm giving Paranormalcy 3 stars, but to be honest, I just can't decide what I think of it. (So yes, before you read on, it is probably reasonable to assume that this will be a relatively unhelpful review.)
I mean... I really enjoyed it and whenever I wasn't reading it, I was thinking - oooh I want to get back to my book! ...which is obviously always a good sign, and doesn't happen ALL that often. BUT...
GOSH! OK. Let's start with something good about Paranormalcy - The protagonist Evie is an appealing character. She is quirky and fun, and while she is selfish like most YA characters, her selfishness seems explicable and she also rises above it by the end. Her chatty voice is both amusing and convincing, although despite being written in 1st person narration, her motivations and thought processes somehow get lost a little somewhere along the way. She is clearly an intelligent character (relatively speaking and as compared to some of her vaguer peers), but we don’t really get to understand this intelligence, so she ends up seeming like a dumb blonde who somehow stumbles to the right conclusions. Also, she cries ALL the time. GAH – this always annoys me, and it annoyed me particularly in the case of Evie since, without clear explanations of her thought processes, her reasons for crying don’t always seem ... like reasons. Is this so we didn’t think she was a sociopath without a soul? Because it is just unnecessary. Oh dear. I’m not making her sound appealing at all, but seriously... apart from these factors of her characterisation, she is pretty great. Her quirky attitude made me laugh on a number of occasions through the novel, and I really did sympathise and empathise with her. I also really did want her to fall in love... mostly.
And that brings me to her love interest. Lend is a shape-shifter, who is pretty darn sweet. He’s not controlling, but he’s not insipid; he’s just cute and nice and oh yeah, he can shape shift into any person he wants, which leads to a number of interesting gaze reversal moments – lots of perving from Evie’s end (which is just fun!). To make the story even sweeter, Evie can see Lend’s true self, and thinks he’s even hotter than the sexiest guy from her favourite show – Awww! No really, it’s a cute love story. I often find myself digging my heels and screaming at the characterisations of most of the love interests in these types of paranormal fantasies, but Lend is written REALLY well. <3 <3 <3 He is even written in comparison to her ex-love-interest, an (sorta) evil faerie named Reth, who is pretty much everything that usually annoys me about the “good guys” in most paranormal romances. Awesome.
Despite this, I wasn’t totally happy with Lend and Evie’s relationship. My fingernail started to claw down my face right around the time that she begins discussing her need to have a good education so that she can go to the same college as Lend – cause, ya know, she has to be with him and love him and always be with him every moment of the day forever and ever. She couldn’t possibly live without him *sigh*. And THEN there seems to be some hints that this may be an actual literal concern ... might she burn out without his love?! ... oh... dear.
What about the plot, you ask? Well, it is pretty good! Actually! The story uses a lot of basic lore that can easily become a little boring when you read as much fantasy as me, but it doesn’t dwell on pointing out the specifics in too much detail and it also ventures outside the box. The plot travels the fairly predictable basic path of YA paranormal fantasies, but again, not in a boring way, in that comfortable I-love-this-genre sort of way. Also, there are idiosyncrasies that are enjoyable and made me want to keep reading... most of the way. Unfortunately, either I or the book just ran out of steam by the end. I think it was around the time that they start talking about prom.
Ho-hum. I suppose we’ll see if it picks up again in the sequel, which I actually do want to read but I’m not dying to pick it up like I was a few days ago when I was mid way through Paranormalcy and bought the next one in excited anticipation. Excited anticipation is now more like a vague desire to maybe find out what happens, perhaps, if I can be bothered. Nah - I totally will, but maybe not right away.(less)
So... last night I finished "Ghost Story", the last novel (so far) in the Dresden Files Series.
I’m officially in mourning. This is exactly the reason...moreSo... last night I finished "Ghost Story", the last novel (so far) in the Dresden Files Series.
I’m officially in mourning. This is exactly the reason I didn’t read the last three chapters of the Harry Potter series. I’m just not psychologically equipped to handle this kind of loss. Some series should never end.
... I’ll write a full review once I’ve dealt with my emotions a bit more. *sob* (less)
Who Will Save the Planet is the story of Jason, a 14 year old avid computer game fan with ambitions of becoming a life saver, but he's also a young an...moreWho Will Save the Planet is the story of Jason, a 14 year old avid computer game fan with ambitions of becoming a life saver, but he's also a young and passionate environmentalist. After a lucky turn which resulted in Jason rescuing the Prime Minister, Jason becomes the topic of media speculation and government policy problems when he asks the PM to introduce emission controls.
Sure of his belief in scientific evidence and the need to protect the future of the world, Jason must contend with criticisms from locals, including his father, who believe that emission controls will badly affect the local economy. He soon discovers that nothing is black and white, but not before he suffers repeated attempts at manipulation from government members, and multiple run-ins with the media.
While I strongly believe that fiction is an excellent educative tool, I was a little unsure how McLennan would handle this difficult topic. In particular, I was unsure whether such a message would be hard to write in a story that remained appealing to young readers. As such, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the story was well paced and very enjoyable. The story flowed well, with no decline in plot appeal, had a light youthful voice and well defined, quite irresistible characters.
I particularly enjoyed Jason's family dynamic, and found Jason's character to be relatable and appealing. His cynical sense of humour was also very amusing.
[spoiler alert] I was a little disappointed that Jason backed down in his request from the PM, despite winning out in the end. I understood that this was part of his lesson in seeing the world in its entirety with shades of grey, but felt disappointed that he did not stick to his guns over something he was so passionate about - particularly when his doubts resulted significantly from manipulation.
All in all this was a lovely read with a good message. I think most children would enjoy this book, and I look forward to a sequel. (less)
I really REALLY wanted to love The Book Thief. The opening blew me away and, perhaps, set my hopes a little high. Sadly, as it continued I failed to b...moreI really REALLY wanted to love The Book Thief. The opening blew me away and, perhaps, set my hopes a little high. Sadly, as it continued I failed to be sucked in. The imagery was continually, mind-bogglingly beautiful; each simile and metaphor an exercise in poetic brilliance. The thing is, at the end of the day, a novel also needs characters that you care about - whether you hate or love them, a plot that pulls you in rather than over-reveals and underwhelms, and, if it is about a topic we've already seen, it needs to have a new take on the subject. The Book Thief doesn't fail on this last point. It's take on WWII is certainly original. Unfortunately, its failure to succeed in the first too points, and possibly others that are not immediately obvious, meant that I was bored and uninspired. It has been a constant effort to return to The Book Thief for some time now, so I've decided to give up. :((less)
I’ve been looking forward to reading “The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group” for a while now. I really enjoyed Catherine Jinks’ previous related story “The...moreI’ve been looking forward to reading “The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group” for a while now. I really enjoyed Catherine Jinks’ previous related story “The Reformed Vampire Support Group,” and was intrigued to see how she would follow it up.
“The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group”, however, was so much more than I’d anticipated.
It is the story of Toby (or Tobias), a teenage boy who wakes up one day in the local wildlife park’s dingo pen. With no idea how he got there, Toby assumes his friends were playing a prank on him, but soon discovers that his night out was rather the result of his rare condition: Toby is a werewolf.
Before I get onto my o-m-g’s about this book, let’s begin with the basics. Like “The Reformed Vampire Support Group”, “The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group” is a fun and exciting twist on the usual young adult paranormal fantasy. Catherine Jinks takes a genre that is full of plot and character expectations and turns it upside down (brilliantly, and with a lovely Aussie vibe to boot). Her characters aren’t those typical selfish yet counter intuitively perfect teens of so many paranormal fantasies. Instead they’re real: they think they know everything, they want to know everything, they’re confused, they’re lost, they’re uncertain, they’re just teenagers, but they’re also werewolves, vampires, and a couple of humans. Also, her plots are filled with action, held together by such a great narrative voice.
The only thing that slightly irritated me was that, having read Jinks’ previous vampire novel, I was already aware of the realities of the world and also knew the backgrounds of certain characters, such as Nina, who was the protagonist of the last book. Unfortunately, this meant that I knew more than the current protagonist, Toby, which is one of my pet hates when it comes to novels written in the 1st person. This was especially painful because Toby spent a lot of the novel unconvinced of his ‘condition’.
Despite this, I really enjoyed “The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group”. I especially love Toby as a character. He’s just a teenage boy trying to understand his place in the world. Which brings me to the point of my review.
Now for the development that I simply wasn’t expecting:
First of all, I feel like I owe you a little preamble: I have a habit of over analysing basic texts. I can’t help myself. Also, I have an ability to see the queer reading in almost anything. That said, I really don’t think the following statement is just my own delusion:
This is SUCH a queer text. In fact, I would classify it as a ‘coming out’ novel.
That’s right. It’s a coming out story, about werewolves.
No seriously. I know what you’re thinking. It’s a young adult fantasy about werewolves, but really, it is so much more. Don’t get me wrong, there is no romantic element to this novel, and it could just as easily be a coming of age novel, but it’s not.
One of the things I love about young adult fantasy is the way the fantasy elements are often used to underscore the issues or messages of the text. While often used in conjunction with other issues, the most common use of fantasy in young adult fiction is to amplify the coming of age story. We see this, of course, in Harry Potter, Buffy, etc. Basically, think of any story where the supernatural element becomes relevant as they are going through, or about to go through, puberty.
It isn’t difficult to understand why fantasy is such an easy vehicle for coming of age messages. Fantasy elements provide such useful metaphor for understanding the teenage condition. The emergence of supernatural powers, which (have you noticed?) always seem to appear during the protagonists’ teenage years, are easily emblematic of the transition experienced by teens and perceived by others during these years. The emergence of supernatural powers acts as an easy representation of the perceived potentials and dangerous boundaries crossed by teenagers, as well as the new responsibilities that they are or feel required to assume.
Yet, the discovery of supernatural powers, just as coming of age, is also about self discovery. It’s about learning to develop an ownership of self, as well as overcoming the difficulties of explaining that self to others.
And ok, I will admit that some of these factors tend to already lean me towards queer readings of texts, where such a reading might not be readily available to all readers.
In the case of “The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group”, however, the reading is just… there, waiting to be received.
I’m not even sure where to begin in explaining this, since it is so obvious and yet remains subtextual. Towards the beginning of the story, one of Toby’s friends asks him how he came to be in the dingo pen, leading, in a roundabout way to asking him if he was with a girl, or *shock and horror* perhaps a boy. Toby’s emphatic “Don’t be stupid” followed by “Just leave me alone, will you?” in answer to the question “Are you gay?” is both aggressive and then suddenly dropped. The topic never explicitly returns to the text from this point on, but the question remains, resounding throughout the book.
Jinks throws in a few stereotypes, which I can’t help but feel were designed to lead us towards a particular reading. For example, throughout the story Toby uses Nina as a fake girlfriend (we might even call her a beard…) as a cover for his ‘condition’, and while he initially seems ashamed of his love of dance, as he comes to terms with his condition, this becomes an accepted part of his identity.
Then of course, there is the actual development of Toby’s self identity. This is essential to his development throughout the novel, beginning with his initial denial of his condition as a werewolf. By the end of the book, however, Toby has come to terms with his identity (as a werewolf…) and we even get a coming out scene, in which he struggles to explain the situation to his mother.
The book finishes rather beautifully with Toby’s declarations of self acceptance and pride, followed by encouragement to others like him, ostensibly other werewolves, to not be ashamed or concerned by their own condition. To quote directly from the last line of the text:
“Just because you’re a werewolf doesn’t mean that you can’t live your life exactly the way you want to.”
Admittedly, the supportive nature of the metaphor falls down a little when Toby explains that he has to keep his identity secret. However, he does explain the need to publicise the condition. I enjoyed this call to visibility, but did find it a little odd in a text which was essentially keeping the vital message hidden. Because, to be clear, none of what I’m suggesting is explicit, but neither, really, is Toby’s lycanthropy. At no point in the story does he actually become a werewolf, just as at no point in the story does he say he’s gay.
Maybe, yet again, I’m completely over reading this whole text, but maybe not.
If you read “The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group”, which you should, I’d love to know what you think.(less)
This is certainly one of the most amazing novels I have ever read. Lionel Shriver's writing is as brilliant as her characters are hateful. "We need to...moreThis is certainly one of the most amazing novels I have ever read. Lionel Shriver's writing is as brilliant as her characters are hateful. "We need to talk about Kevin" is a novel comprising of letters from Eva to her husband, as she attempts to understand and explain the character of her son Kevin. The novel considers the concept of evil within the bounds of the never ending nature versus nurture debate, while also examining specific themes of motherhood and society's treatment of related issues such as post-partum depression. Without giving anything away, the question develops and remains, are people born or do they become evil? Equally, what is evil? I have never hated any characters more than both Eva and Kevin, and yet, Shriver manages to elicit sympathy for both of them. This novel is so completely thought provoking that while I finished it six months ago, it still keeps me up at night.(less)
The Tudor Secret was, to be blunt, exceedingly boring.
It is about Brendan, an orphaned squire in Tudor England, whose name I had forgotten until I gl...moreThe Tudor Secret was, to be blunt, exceedingly boring.
It is about Brendan, an orphaned squire in Tudor England, whose name I had forgotten until I glanced at the book description before I started writing this review. He is drawn rapidly and rather unconvincingly into court intrigue, which is less than intriguing.
He meets Kate, a potentially sassy, but ultimately two dimensional character, falls in love, and assists her in helping Princesses Elizabeth and Mary against a rising rebellion.
The plot of The Tudor Secret had potential. I certainly thought it sounded exciting enough to pick up. I usually like historical fiction, and my mother had enjoyed it (I must ask her WHY?!). Unfortunately, the complete lack of convincing characterisation and pace, which resembled that of an epileptic snail, made this a hopeless read.
I only finished it because it helped me fall asleep at night - sheer boredom will do that. (less)
"Strange Angels" follows the story of Dru, who, after her father dies and returns as a zombie (of course), takes over his job as hunter of all things...more"Strange Angels" follows the story of Dru, who, after her father dies and returns as a zombie (of course), takes over his job as hunter of all things supernatural, while learning to understand her own supernatural abilities.
Dru is a fun, if understandably angry character, who doesn't just sit back and let things happen. Unlike many of her fellow heroines, she is the first to jump into a fight to protect others. Her attitude is somewhat reminiscent of the brothers on "Supernatural", and there is a definite "Supernatural" vibe to the whole story.
Despite Dru's rather troubling daddy issues, the love interest story line was enjoyable as well. I like the character Graves and thought his attitude allowed for some excellent development of Dru as a strong female protagonist, supported but not reliant on a man.
I really did quite love "Strange Angels" and thought the series had so much potential. Unfortunately, it all went downhill from here. Dru rapidly lost her pizzazz and became overly obsessed with proving herself amongst the boys, who mostly just wanted to either eat or look after her. Equally, instead of proving herself by standing up to their misogyny, she mostly just sat back, did what she was told (despite the series’ tag line), and bitched about it.
Also, the love interest story line became GAH! This was one of my favourite aspects of the first book. Their relationship was quite atypical for the usual gender relations of young adult paranormal, and still managed to be enticing. Yet, as the series progressed, the story turned into the typical: who will she date? The hot bad boy, or the nice decent guy (who, at this point, despite gaining powers of his own, just becomes pathetic and sulky)?
*sigh* So much potential. So disappointing. Read Book One, then stop. (less)
"Some Girls" is the true story of an 18 year old struggling actress, who takes a position in the harem of the Prince of Brunei. It chronicles her upbr...more"Some Girls" is the true story of an 18 year old struggling actress, who takes a position in the harem of the Prince of Brunei. It chronicles her upbringing, the choices and paths that led to her decision to become an international prostitute, her time in the harem and her struggle to deal with life on her return to the US. The plot and the realities of her life that drive the story come as no surprise. What is surprising, however, is the insight with which she relates her story. It is all the more surprising as this insight is yet contrasted with the remaining defensiveness of a struggling teen and, indeed, a lingering defensiveness for the men whom the reader must determine to hate. Despite this seemingly paradoxical, although somewhat inevitable defensiveness, Lauren clearly and beautifully protrays the darkness of her story, and the story of so many women, not only within the walls of a harem, but also in the wider world. She utilises myths and fairy tales, including those of Antigone, Cinderella and Shahrazad, to depict the truths of these stories and her own, which continue to resinate in the lives of western women today. This tale was written at a deeper level that I did not expect and is a lovely read. While it may appear as yet another light chick memoir, Lauren has surprisingly more to offer.(less)
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