E.G. Stone (Editor of The Gray Isles)

E.G. Stone wrote a new blog post Book Review: Through Dragon’s Fire by A.N. Miller Since childhood, stories about dragons—either as a force for good or evil—have fascinated me. While I am perhaps biased towards stories where these ma Read more of this blog post »
Jan 13, 2021 06:16AM · like
E.G. Stone rated a book really liked it Through Dragon's Fire by A. N. Miller (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Since childhood, stories about dragons—either as a force for good or evil—have fascinated me. While I am perhaps biased towards stories where these massive, fire-breathing, dangerous flying reptiles are closer to benevolent than malicious, I do enjoy ...more
Jan 12, 2021 07:50AM · like · see review
E.G. Stone rated a book really liked it We Must Find Her (The Finding Chronicles Book 1) by A.R. Harlow	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
While this book is and takes place in a fantasy world, I was really very pleased with its depiction of realistic situations, such as dealing with depression and staying hopeful in a hopeless situation. The world was richly invented and the characters ...more
Jan 06, 2021 06:47AM · like · see review
E.G. Stone rated a book really liked it Princess of Beasts by Joanna White (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
In the world of Princess of Beasts by Joanna White, all is not well. Sahri is a princess controlled by her family so that her gift of talking to animals belongs to them alone. Her bodyguard, Jekre, perhaps the only person she truly trusts, is control ...more
Jan 05, 2021 07:13AM · like · see review
E.G. Stone rated a book it was amazing Cider for Harborland by Michael Evan	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Have you ever said something to someone and then they took that one comment and ran with it like a hyper-competitive pre-teen during a game of capture the flag? Yeah… I mentioned that Michael Evan and JMD Reid’s Cider of Legend was a little too predi ...more
Dec 15, 2020 06:42AM · 1 like · like · see review
E.G. Stone rated a book really liked it Bullets And Bones: A Sci-Fi Western (Desa Kincaid Book 2) by R.S. Penney (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
I rarely get a chance to read straight westerns, mostly because I haven’t actually been in touch with a lot of authors who write westerns. Now, that being said, I have a special fondness for all things space opera (read, western with sci-fi) or even ...more
Dec 01, 2020 06:52AM · like · see review
E.G. Stone liked Molly's review of The One Who Could Not Fly (The Wing Cycle Book 1):
Dec 01, 2020 06:51AM · see review
E.G. Stone rated a book really liked it Darkness Awakening (Awakened, #2) by Lisa M. Green (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
For all the many, many books that I read, I don’t often get a chance to read sequels or series continuations for the books that I review. I have a never ending list, and going back on my own time to read farther is not always an option. So when I get ...more
Nov 24, 2020 07:05AM · like · see review
E.G. Stone rated a book it was amazing Stranded (The Shorten Chronicles, #1) by Rosalind Tate (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Portal fantasy (and sci-fi) has become a favourite of readers, ever since the advent of The Chronicles of Narnia. There is just something mythical and fascinating about being transported to another world. In Rosalind Tate’s Stranded, which is the fir ...more
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E.G. Stone rated a book really liked it Where Hope is Found by Rebecca L. Marsh (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
I don’t often read a lot of contemporary literary fiction. Part of this is because most of the books I was made to read during high school were of the literary fiction genre, and they were, usually, quite frustratingly terrible. (Would it kill Englis ...more
Oct 27, 2020 06:33AM · like · see review

E.G. Stone wrote a new blog post

Book Review: Through Dragon’s Fire by A.N. Miller

Since childhood, stories about dragons—either as a force for good or evil—have fascinated me. While I am perhaps biased towards stories where these ma Read more of this blog post »

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Through Dragon's Fire
by A. N. Miller (Goodreads Author)

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Since childhood, stories about dragons—either as a force for good or evil—have fascinated me. While I am perhaps biased towards stories where these massive, fire-breathing, dangerous flying reptiles are closer to benevolent than malicious, I do enjoy Since childhood, stories about dragons—either as a force for good or evil—have fascinated me. While I am perhaps biased towards stories where these massive, fire-breathing, dangerous flying reptiles are closer to benevolent than malicious, I do enjoy a traditional world-against-dragon story. A.N. Miller’s Through Dragon’s Fire is a perfect example of this sort of story.

1. Thoughts on the plot
This story reminds me a lot of the Tamora Pierce books featuring Tortall; the protagonist is a girl trying to find herself and her purpose. Our main character Amara flees from a home that ostracises her, and discovers a past that she didn’t know she had. In trying to understand this past, she joins the BouldAras, a rank of elite warriors charged with protecting the kingdom. The only thing is that there is far more to becoming a BouldAra than simply learning how to wield a weapon. Amara must face her forgotten past and the monster that set her on her past before she can truly become who she was meant to be.
I think the plot is well done and well thought out. There is a decent amount of time spent on each of the important pieces of Amara’s journey and you can easily see how each piece of the puzzle fits together to create something new. The story is entertaining to follow and I think it works very well.

2. Thoughts on the characters
Amara is a good main character to follow. She has mysteries to solve, not the least of which is discovering who she is and what her purpose is moving forwards. I think that she reacts very well to the various challenges set in her path and I like her overall. She is definitely worth reading about.
The other characters, though, I think could use a bit more exploration. Primarily, her mentor in the BouldAras. You see some of his personality and motivation, but most of it is simply left as a sort of standoffish person without any real reason why until the very end of the book. While the ending scenario does explain his motivations nicely, I think the pieces leading up to that point could have been expanded just a touch more, giving more of a clue as to why, rather than just presenting the information at the end.
Otherwise, I like the characters; they’re not stereotypical and they are perfect for the story, acting more like real people than sometimes is presented in traditional-style world-vs-dragon stories.

3. Favourite part
I think, actually, that the whole situation regarding Amara discovering her past and figuring out where she was meant to be, as well as reconciling what happened, is my favourite bit. It is a thread that winds through the whole story, interspersed with pieces of other events that temporarily distract Amara. However, it is not the entire world that Amara involves herself in, just a significant piece, which I think works really very well.

4. Critique
I think my only real critique for this book is that some of the secondary characters (see point 2) need just a touch of further exploration, in regards to motivations or personality. This is not really a huge thing, as Amara does not require this for her journey, but it would serve to really illustrate the story very well. As it is, though, I think this story does well with characters; I just want a touch more.

Overall, I would say that Through Dragon’s Fire is a story remnant of those I read when I was younger, with characters trying to discover themselves and the world, trying to right the wrongs of the past, and taking a stand with what abilities they possess. It was an entertaining read, and I would say that it is a good book. ...more

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We Must Find Her (The Finding Chronicles Book 1)
by A.R. Harlow

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While this book is and takes place in a fantasy world, I was really very pleased with its depiction of realistic situations, such as dealing with depression and staying hopeful in a hopeless situation. The world was richly invented and the characters ...more

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Princess of Beasts
by Joanna White (Goodreads Author)

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In the world of Princess of Beasts by Joanna White, all is not well. Sahri is a princess controlled by her family so that her gift of talking to animals belongs to them alone. Her bodyguard, Jekre, perhaps the only person she truly trusts, is control In the world of Princess of Beasts by Joanna White, all is not well. Sahri is a princess controlled by her family so that her gift of talking to animals belongs to them alone. Her bodyguard, Jekre, perhaps the only person she truly trusts, is controlled by her family also. His Rune of Obedience requires him to protect her and obey her at all costs, and it is distinctly possible he hates her for it. When further disaster strikes the kingdom and Sahri is the only one who can help, how far will she go to make things right?

1. Thoughts on the plot
Generally speaking, this plot follows a fairly standard set of expectations. You have your princess, her bodyguard, and a disaster that only they can fix. This is a familiar—and for good reason—fantasy plot that has wowed people for years, and will likely to do so for years to come. It is a quest novel, following a pair as they discover who they are and what really matters. In this instance, I was not disappointed even a little bit.
The plot moves quickly enough that you are not left wondering when things are going to happen. There is enough intrigue to provide questions about how things are going to turn out. And there is most certainly enough drama to keep you enthralled as you follow the main characters on their quest. I quite liked the plot, from beginning to end and have no complaints. Even when the ending tugged at the heartstrings. A lot.

2. Thoughts on the characters
Sahri is a wonderful main character to follow. She does not have any serious weapons skills. She does not seem to care about politics. She is simply smart, capable, and kind, and I honestly wish there were most characters like her. She has enough questions about her place and roll in the world to make her development intriguing to follow. Her family and the rules placed on her by them are the weight that could potentially ruin everything; Sahri must come to terms with them and how she feels about them. Oh, and how she feels about Jekre, too.
As a bodyguard bound by magic, I think Jekre’s backstory and character traits fit the roll perfectly. He is infuriated at the binding placed on him, so that he does not even have free will. Yet, he seems to recognise that Sahri is worth protecting, and there is enough of a push-pull factor there that watching the two of them interact is almost as pivotal to the plot as the actual quest itself.
I think my only real critique for the characters is that the villains of the piece feel a little too villainous without having a well-developed cause. I won’t say a good cause, because the reason given does make sense (if you’re a terrible person). But it is only mentioned a few times and feels a little flat. Otherwise, I love the characters.

3. Favourite part
The ending. I can’t tell you much, because that would involve spoilers, but I can tell you that it was dramatic and poignant and, despite giving me all the “oh, no!” feelings, fit the story perfectly. That’s as far as I can tell you, sorry. (Not sorry.)

4. Critique
The ending. While it does fit with the story nearly perfectly, I think the final climax that leads into the very last image with Jekre and the afterwards bit moved just a touch too quickly. I would have liked to have seen the true consequences of that, and where it might lead, as well as make sure everyone else in the story understands just how significant the events were. Still, I think it was a good ending. Even if it was really terrible of the writer to do that to me… (As a writer, I appreciate this so much. As a reader, less so.)

Overall, I would say Princess of Beasts is a really charming and entertaining book. It has great characters and a plot that is both familiar and fun in the best ways. Even if you disagree with me about the ending bits, I would say this book is absolutely worth a read. Very good. ...more

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Cider for Harborland
by Michael Evan

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Have you ever said something to someone and then they took that one comment and ran with it like a hyper-competitive pre-teen during a game of capture the flag? Yeah… I mentioned that Michael Evan and JMD Reid’s Cider of Legend was a little too predi Have you ever said something to someone and then they took that one comment and ran with it like a hyper-competitive pre-teen during a game of capture the flag? Yeah… I mentioned that Michael Evan and JMD Reid’s Cider of Legend was a little too predictable, a little too on-genre, even though it is a satirical fantasy poking fun at said genre. I said that it needed some entropy. And you know what happened? Cider for Harborland happened.

1. Thoughts on the plot
Now, you must understand that this book is a crossover between the Alehouse books—featuring seals, walruses, ale, epic battles, magic and mech—and the quest-novel featuring snakes on a search for a mystical and magical cider. So you’re not going to get a standard plot out of this. However, being a satirical fantasy, there is also a generally accepted requirement that the plot has to follow standard fantasy guidelines. This does that.
How? Well, at first, we start with the snakes in the desert, called by mysterious dreams to spread the Cider of Legend to Harborland. Why? Well, we’re not sure until much, much later. This first part of the book follows a mostly-standard quest-by-dreaming plot, except things are, as expected, a little odd. The standard pieces that you would find in such a novel are twisted, changed, poked fun at, etc. Which is entertaining in of itself, but this then leads into the slightly-more-chaotic world of Harborland.
The first two Alehouse books were...well, let’s just say that logic was not a requirement. The part of this book featuring our seal friends is equally illogical, providing the perfect ground for the crossover from the desert.
Trust me, as crazy as all this sounds, it does make sense.

2. Thoughts on the characters
The characters in this book are the familiar ones that we’ve seen in all the previous books. We have Mik’hai and Le’thal the sidewinders. JM and Matthais as the seals. They are familiar and enjoyable.
The other characters in the book that we get to see more of are Sandy Sam (sidewinder), Scotty (cider-brewing lizard), Mary Sue (don’t get me started), and a cameo by the authors (trust me, it’s better if you find out yourself on this one). I like the new characters and the old characters; they mix together very well and make the crazy plot make sense, which is a feat in of itself. I think that the linguistic oddities of Sandy Sam and Scotty are probably my favourites, but that could be because I want to hit Mary Sue upside the head. Twice.

3. Favourite bit
The ending portion of the book featuring the authors. As talking about this would likely spoil a good portion of the book, I shall say very little. Only, all the questions were answered and what could have been an extremely pointless ending was instead turned into something (intentionally) ridiculously poignant that was both perfect for a satire and somehow completely sincere. And it explained the whole problematic thing I had with the end of the first Alehouse book, so there was that, too.

4. Critique
I was promised entropy, and entropy I got. It didn’t make a lot of sense to me until the end, so up until that point, I was a little frustrated with the seemingly pointless weirdness. But, as the ending cleared all that up, I can’t really call that a critique. Just…delayed expectation.

Overall, this book is—weirdly—the perfect culmination to the “series”. (I hesitate to call it a series since the books, excepting the Alehouse books, seem to have nothing to do with one another besides the fact that they feature animals and alcohol. Still, they fit together well, so disregard my inability to categorise things properly.) As a satirical fantasy, this book managed to both follow the expected tropes and poke fun at them, while still not taking itself too seriously. A feat of great shenanigans, to be sure. If you’re interested in the mostly ridiculous, want some magic, some mayhem and a mystical cider, then this is a good book for you. ...more

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Bullets And Bones: A Sci-Fi Western (Desa Kincaid Book 2)
by R.S. Penney (Goodreads Author)

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I rarely get a chance to read straight westerns, mostly because I haven’t actually been in touch with a lot of authors who write westerns. Now, that being said, I have a special fondness for all things space opera (read, western with sci-fi) or even I rarely get a chance to read straight westerns, mostly because I haven’t actually been in touch with a lot of authors who write westerns. Now, that being said, I have a special fondness for all things space opera (read, western with sci-fi) or even westerns with fantasy elements (I don’t know if there’s a specific genre name for this) and any chance to delve into a series with such things is really quite a treat. Reading R.S. Penney’s Desa Kincaid series was no exception. This review is for the second in the series, though I read both books and shall try to provide some context.

1. Thoughts on the plot
The second book in the series, Bullets and Bones starts where the first left off. For context, our hero Desa has just been through the desert and all sorts of uncomfortable and dangerous situations in order to track down her nemesis, a villain who uses Field Binding (sort of like Jedi powers) to hurt people and bring some unknown force into the world. After this, Desa and her friends were transported by this unknown force back to her home of Aladar. And things there are…complicated. Now, with a stronger enemy to face, a past to reconcile, and politics to battle, Desa’s trials are far from over.
I think this second book did a really good job of continuing the story from the first book, while also providing more in the way of world building, specifically regarding Desa’s past. We learn a good deal more about where she came from and those added elements make things much more difficult for the characters. Then, in the second half of the book, when they set off to go defeat their enemy, things pick up a bit in pace. This could have been done badly, to the point where the pace shift gives you a bit of whiplash, but I think that this particular change was perfect for teh story and the situation. Though, the travel was a bit hard to follow, but that’s because I am geographically challenged.

2. Thoughts on the characters
Any sequel, featuring the same cast of characters, is meant to take those familiar faces and give them more struggles, highlight their character even more, and provide more insight into their lives. In short, the character development in any sequel should be a continuation and expansion of what we learned in the first book. And this book definitely did that.
The first book was really quite good in that I liked the characters while also acknowledging their flaws. I could see the way that they were growing and I had fun reading them. Bullets and Bones, though, really let me see the characters for what they were. Desa’s past added a whole element of answers to questions that I didn’t know I had. Learning about Miri and Marcus and their lives in Aladar was perfect for both plot and character. And that plot twist at the end…just lovely.

3. Favourite part
Probably the technical/mystical exploration of Field Binding. There seems to be a good portion of this art which is grounded in science, and some which is not. I can’t really explain it more than that, but I loved seing something that looked slightly familiar transplanted into a new, action-oriented and fascinating environment.

4. Critique
Some of the action scenes—and there were quite a few—did overwhelm the plot just a touch. They were important, yes, but they seemed almost scripted rather than flowing from the natural progression of the plot. While I enjoyed the action scenes quite a lot, I think they didn’t need to be quite so over-the-top dramatic. Still, that’s more of a personal preference than anything.

Overall, I would say that this second instalment in the Desa Kincaid series is a gripping adventure that combines some of my favourite elements of both sci-fi, and westerns: a defining sense of right and wrong, a technological element that shapes the world, and characters that cause a good deal of trouble. Very good. ...more

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Darkness Awakening (Awakened, #2)
by Lisa M. Green (Goodreads Author)

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For all the many, many books that I read, I don’t often get a chance to read sequels or series continuations for the books that I review. I have a never ending list, and going back on my own time to read farther is not always an option. So when I get For all the many, many books that I read, I don’t often get a chance to read sequels or series continuations for the books that I review. I have a never ending list, and going back on my own time to read farther is not always an option. So when I get a sequel to a book I’ve already read on my schedule for review, I’m thrilled. And Darkness Awakening by Lisa M. Green is no exception.

1. Thoughts on the plot
This book follows the continuing adventures of Aurianna, the saviour from the future, in the fantastic reimagining of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale. There is still magic and technology, political scheming and questions of what is right and wrong, but this story delves more into Aurianna’s past, which I enjoyed a fair bit. I will say that the beginning of the book dives right into pulling her through time again, without any time for her to enjoy returning to the future that she knows/knew. This is important for plot, but it starts the story off at a very fast pace and things do not slow down once throughout the novel.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I think that the moments of plot-significant action mixed with moments of character bonding between Aurianna and her friends made for a story that was entertaining to read and didn’t overwhelm you with too much action or information, despite being fast paced. The only part I had issue with was the ending, but I’ll discuss that in a bit.

2. Thoughts on the characters
I always find character development in sequels/follow-on novels to be almost more interesting than the initial story. We get to see the character continue to grow from where we left them at the end of book one, and really come into their own. In this story, Aurianna starts off with her angry and reluctant hero attitude and really turns it into righteous indignation at the shape of the world. She also deals with the discovery of her past, which is enough to throw anyone for a loop, and still ends up being a character that you love. Especially at the end, when things are…really, really bad (spoilers, sorry) and she does the awesome thing to fix the problem (again, can’t say because spoilers), she really shows her colours and the reason why we like her so much.
She may not be convinced she’s this saviour, but by George, she’s going to bust some heads if it means getting things done!

3. Favourite part & critique
Okay, here’s where things get a bit… tricky. Because my favourite part is the ending. But it’s also my least favourite part. The part I really enjoyed was seeing Aurianna put all the puzzle pieces together (as much as was possible) and really start to show the world just what she thinks of its scheming. She grows into her abilities and is a friend that you want by your side. I love the pain and anguish that she goes through while in this moment of self-discovery, and also the way that she resolves the issues. Also, I enjoy the whole Pharis “situation”.
Now, the part about the ending I don’t like? The whole thing with Javen. Okay, I saw it coming almost from the beginning of the book. All the clues are there and I knew it was going to happen. That’s fine, I have no problem with plot twists that come from a solid ground of logic. Where I find issue is the piece where the motivation for the plot twist comes in. I know how, I know what, but why is a complete mystery. And it’s a complete mystery to everyone else in the book, too, which is really quite frustrating. I like to have at least a logical reason for characters to behave the way that they do, and this felt far from logical. It just sort of…was.
Now, I understand that the answers will be provided in the next book. That’s standard for a series. The part that I would change is to add just a touch of motivation/hint of the emotional core earlier in the story so that it doesn’t feel like it is just twirling moustachery of character development. The actions themselves were seen earlier on, but the reasons why were not, and that disparity bothers me just a touch.
Even so, I did love the ending. I just…hated it, too.

Overall, I would say that Darkness Awakening is a fantastic sequel to Dawn Rising and really moves the story along in an intriguing direction. The characters were just as enjoyable as ever, the plot was great to read, and excepting that one bit at the end, I had a great time with this story. I would definitely recommend this book! ...more

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Stranded (The Shorten Chronicles, #1)
by Rosalind Tate (Goodreads Author)

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Portal fantasy (and sci-fi) has become a favourite of readers, ever since the advent of The Chronicles of Narnia. There is just something mythical and fascinating about being transported to another world. In Rosalind Tate’s Stranded, which is the fir Portal fantasy (and sci-fi) has become a favourite of readers, ever since the advent of The Chronicles of Narnia. There is just something mythical and fascinating about being transported to another world. In Rosalind Tate’s Stranded, which is the first book in her Shorten Chronicles, the portal travels in time, to a place in the distant past, where social graces and keeping secrets to oneself may be the most important thing. Oh, and there’s a dog. Already, this is a great start.

1. Thoughts on the plot
This book follows Sophie Arundel, a new University student who is transported to the past with her acquaintance from school, Hugo, and her not-quite-official service dog, Charlotte. The portal leaves Sophie and Hugo stranded in a lane in the England of a different time, and once they leave the portal, it vanishes. Now, Sophie and Huge must blend in as best they can while they try to decipher the workings of the portal. The only thing is, history in this England isn’t the same.
I will admit, it took me a little bit to really get into the story on this novel. The first part, about the university, and then Hugo and Sophie’s initial trek to the Shorten Manor, didn’t really grab me. It felt a little like a typical portal fantasy, and even their thoughts about it being a dream felt a little too typical. But, as soon as we got to the Manor and learned that the lift portal had vanished, I was hooked. This story unfolded in a slow unfurling, and it was done spectacularly well. Each piece of the story built on what came before and fit in so perfectly with the adventure, the questions about the portal, and Sophie’s character development. By the end of this book, I was really keen to read more (and still am!).
This book is a slow-burn sort of book, but the detail that went into the construction of the plot, down to the clothing and food, not to mention science, was exceptional.

2. Thoughts on the characters
Despite my not really getting into the plot until we reach the past, I did like Sophie’s character right from the start. Any girl who has the gumption to arrive at University with her dog in tow, but no official service animal paperwork, is one I’m interested in reading about. She has spark, and doesn’t always think things through, but is fully aware of how her actions affect others. Only, maybe, after they’ve already happened.
I really enjoyed reading about how Sophie’s character changed and adapted to the circumstances throughout the novel. Learning tahe social graces of a different time is always complicated, but Sophie’s leap first philosophy made it even more entertaining to follow. I also like the various relationships she formed while on her adventure, from friends to family and maybe more. It will be fascinating to see how those unfold in future stories.

3. Favourite part
Charlotte’s antics must get an honourable mention here, since she is absolutely a wonderful dog and character. But my true favourite part would have to be all the detail that went into this piece. The house, the products described, the social attitudes, the science, everything was just so well placed as to make the world come alive without overwhelming you with information. It was such fun to read, to see history come to life.

4. Critique
I really don’t have any real critiques for this novel. Despite it being a slow start, I thoroughly enjoyed it and even will say that the beginning makes perfect sense once you reach the end (or even middle) of the story. And even though the story ended on a cliffhanger, I can’t complain about that, either, as it was a perfect end to the story and didn’t leave you hanging. Yes, I do note the irony of that statement. Trust me, it makes sense when you read the book.

All in all, I should say that Stranded was an absolutely charming, delightful fantasy with just a touch of romance and romanticism. I enjoyed it a lot, especially Charlotte, and would recommend it to anyone who wants to see a bit of history come to life. ...more

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Where Hope is Found
by Rebecca L. Marsh (Goodreads Author)

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I don’t often read a lot of contemporary literary fiction. Part of this is because most of the books I was made to read during high school were of the literary fiction genre, and they were, usually, quite frustratingly terrible. (Would it kill Englis I don’t often read a lot of contemporary literary fiction. Part of this is because most of the books I was made to read during high school were of the literary fiction genre, and they were, usually, quite frustratingly terrible. (Would it kill English teachers to just once pick books that were relatable to a student rather than about things we most certainly found dull?) I don’t dislike literary fiction, don’t get me wrong. I think it is a fascinating genre. However, most of my early impressions were shaped by those unfortunate books. Also, not that many books of literary fiction sort drop across my review schedule. (Why? I don’t know.)
So when I got the chance to read and review Rebecca Marsh’s contemporary fiction piece, Where Hope is Found I was thrilled. And then I actually read the book and found it equally thrilling.

1. Thoughts on the plot
This book follows Marissa, a woman who lost her husband and her oldest child in the same tragic accident, and her youngest daughter Maisy as they navigate the aftermatch of that selfsame accident. Interwoven in their story is the story of Owen, Marissa’s brother, and Charlie, his son, as they deal with an entirely different sort of relationship. This story focuses a lot on how people deal with tragedy and how they navigate difficult waters to make a life for themselves.
I will admit, parts of this book had me sniffling a bit. The difficulties that Marissa, Maisy, Owen and Charlie deal with are all so terrible that you can’t help but feel for them. But there is also an element of relatability, because their story could just as easily belong to anyone else and still be just as powerful. The evolution of the plot was intimately tied together with the evolution of the characters and I liked that quite a bit. It was nice to see something that couldn’t exist without one or the other, rather than separate plots and characters that, while they worked well together, were actually separate creatures. This was definitely compelling in both regards.

2. Thoughts on the characters
This book shifts perspectives between Marissa and Owen as they navigate their lives and I liked that it followed both. You see events unfolding from the eyes of two different people, which allows us to see how different people interpret the same events. Each piece of the characters that we say, either from ther own perspective or from the perspective of someone else, helped to illustrate them into a whole, complex being. Again, the character evolution was intricately linked to the plot and I enjoyed seeing both progress simultaneously. Marissa’s journey impacted me perhaps slightly more than Owen’s, but that is because I relate to her a fair bit, not that I don’t relate to Owen. Both characters were worth reading in my opinion.

3. Favourite part
I think my favourite part is actually the relationship that both Marissa and Owen have with the rest of their family. That particular “I love you, but you’re difficult” feeling that both sides seem to feel resonated a fair bit with me. It felt acutely familiar and made this book all the more real. It was also nice to see this relationship both evolve and stay the same throughout the book, as is the case with most family.

4. Critique
My only real critique for this book is that the ending was rather abrupt. I understand why it ended where it did. Everything did get resolved and there were no more questions to be answered. But the story was moving at a rapid pace at the very end, then just sort of…stopped. I think even just an epilogue showing one more scene some indeterminate amount of time later (say a year, or so) would have rounded out the story to the point where I didn’t feel a bit shortchanged by the ending. Though, as I said, everything was resolved, so it’s more just a personal opinion than anything.

Overall, I really enjoyed Where Hope is Found. It may not be quite so intentionally dramatic as many of the literary and contemporary fiction pieces I read in high school, but it had all the important pieces that define the genre and was, besides that, an enjoyable book to read. I would say that it was very good. ...more

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	The Crow and the King it was amazing 5.00 avg rating — 4 ratings	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Pestilence and Plague: An Anthology of Stories About the Virus by E.G. Stone (Goodreads Author), William David Ellis (Goodreads Author), Ulff Lehmann (Goodreads Author) 4.33 avg rating — 3 ratings	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
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