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Ill-Fated
Leila Edgewick stands on the brink of disaster; balancing the fate of Bainland and her father’s legacy against a vague, ill-fated prophecy. A meaningless number, a luckless red moon, and worst of all– a star that falls south– send Leila on a quest she does not expect to survive.
Simultaneously, an unknown boy wakes up in the sunken hull of a decrepit cargo ship. Captured and mind-locked, the boy– dubbed “Sam” by the ship’s crew– must escape the infamous Bonesplitter and the dark schemes of one Captain Erastacus Oren. When Leila and Sam's paths cross, fate ties them together, sending them deep into the Ramble in search of the Wasteland Witches. Plagued by Sam's erratic memory and Leila's dubious rationale, they must outwit the Southland drudge hunters and take on the dangers of the Ramble.
Their friendship develops quickly, but as Leila’s quest unravels, Sam’s past is pieced together– and when his identity is finally revealed, Leila must face up to a bloody family history that could rip their friendship apart...
Simultaneously, an unknown boy wakes up in the sunken hull of a decrepit cargo ship. Captured and mind-locked, the boy– dubbed “Sam” by the ship’s crew– must escape the infamous Bonesplitter and the dark schemes of one Captain Erastacus Oren. When Leila and Sam's paths cross, fate ties them together, sending them deep into the Ramble in search of the Wasteland Witches. Plagued by Sam's erratic memory and Leila's dubious rationale, they must outwit the Southland drudge hunters and take on the dangers of the Ramble.
Their friendship develops quickly, but as Leila’s quest unravels, Sam’s past is pieced together– and when his identity is finally revealed, Leila must face up to a bloody family history that could rip their friendship apart...
335 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2012
5 people are currently reading
770 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn Ink
5 books29 followersEvelyn Ink was formally trained to be a parachutist, but found it did not fit her longstanding desire to avoid heights and thus decided to study the much less vertically horrifying subject of English Literature.
Due to the web of conspiracy which surrounds Evelyn Ink, she rarely appears in public, but when she does it’s best to avoid her on account of her enduring history of social disrepute. There has been more than one regrettable event regarding bent cameras and shattered umbrellas.
It’s hard to say how old she is, but I would guess she was born well before you were. Her childhood home, deep in some unknown, but undoubtably pleasant countryside, was turned into a plastic bubblepuck factory forcing her family to move far into the Stonegrave Mountains. These Mountains were unfortunately chosen to be used as an experimental avalanche catastrophe (EAC) site and once again the Ink Family was forced to move. It seems ill-fortune struck again and again as they were repeatedly obligated to change locations: once due to a plague of urban badgers, a fracking sinkhole, and then again when a tuna factory’s waste disposal sight was established just outside their home.
As an adult she has continued on in this nomadic lifestyle, crossing oceans and continents when necessary. Necessary being: under the scrutiny of the press, unwarranted investigations, and an ill-timed anarchist fan base. Evelyn was quoted saying,
Mrs. Ink also prefers the term “vacation” to “exile.”
That said, Mrs. Ink continues on writing and publishing while in exile . . . sorry, on vacation, with her husband, who (name unknown) is thought by many to be both an anarchist and mad philosopher.
You may choose to follow Evelyn Ink on her blog, although due to her absolute terror of electronics and a crippling phobia of the social media (technical term: Socmephobia), her blog posts tend to be infrequent and erratic. Also, due to several post exile investigations and her current relocation program, she is generally prevented from giving specific information regarding her whereabouts (Though, by the hollowly echo and vintage-like hum of a rotary phone, I would suspect from our last conversation, she is somewhere deep underground).
This report was conducted by:
Mr. Edwin Riddle
Of Public Relations, Personal Investigates, and Subterfuge.
Due to the web of conspiracy which surrounds Evelyn Ink, she rarely appears in public, but when she does it’s best to avoid her on account of her enduring history of social disrepute. There has been more than one regrettable event regarding bent cameras and shattered umbrellas.
It’s hard to say how old she is, but I would guess she was born well before you were. Her childhood home, deep in some unknown, but undoubtably pleasant countryside, was turned into a plastic bubblepuck factory forcing her family to move far into the Stonegrave Mountains. These Mountains were unfortunately chosen to be used as an experimental avalanche catastrophe (EAC) site and once again the Ink Family was forced to move. It seems ill-fortune struck again and again as they were repeatedly obligated to change locations: once due to a plague of urban badgers, a fracking sinkhole, and then again when a tuna factory’s waste disposal sight was established just outside their home.
As an adult she has continued on in this nomadic lifestyle, crossing oceans and continents when necessary. Necessary being: under the scrutiny of the press, unwarranted investigations, and an ill-timed anarchist fan base. Evelyn was quoted saying,
Mrs. Ink also prefers the term “vacation” to “exile.”
That said, Mrs. Ink continues on writing and publishing while in exile . . . sorry, on vacation, with her husband, who (name unknown) is thought by many to be both an anarchist and mad philosopher.
You may choose to follow Evelyn Ink on her blog, although due to her absolute terror of electronics and a crippling phobia of the social media (technical term: Socmephobia), her blog posts tend to be infrequent and erratic. Also, due to several post exile investigations and her current relocation program, she is generally prevented from giving specific information regarding her whereabouts (Though, by the hollowly echo and vintage-like hum of a rotary phone, I would suspect from our last conversation, she is somewhere deep underground).
This report was conducted by:
Mr. Edwin Riddle
Of Public Relations, Personal Investigates, and Subterfuge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 19, 2014
Ill fated is a book I'm slightly torn about rating. For me it really sits somewhere between two and three stars. It's a bit more than "OK," but not quite "I liked it." It has all the ingredients to be a really good book, but didn't quite get there.
The Good:
The beginning is interesting. (The prologue.) It left me wondering what was going to happen in the story and what might come of the characters as their story progressed.
Some of the characters. I was immediately drawn in by Leila the main protagonist. Her first few pages had me liking her. Sam was another character who had a strong beginning, and I was looking forward to seeing what might become of him. Some of the more minor characters were very strongly imagined, and I was disappointed that they only made short appearances.
The world building. I was intrigued by the world and the world structure from the beginning, although using "moon spell" for night initially threw me. I slowly became used to it, but I don't really think it was necessary. There is a lot of promise in this "world" but it does need to be more clearly defined in parts.
The growing relationship between Leila and her horse. This was probably the most realistic relationship of them all.
The Not So Good.
The story telling seemed quite rushed. Although by the end of the story there had been a complete story told, there wasn't enough lead-in for quite a few of the important plot pieces. We don't really understand Leila's relationship with her family, or why the country she comes from doesn't like magic, or why they make an exception for the royal family. There were hints, but nothing really concrete, which made Leila's very promising character less concrete.
A massive info dump three quarters of the way through. Just when the story really begins to get interesting, there's a massive info dump which is effectively overheard by the main characters and apart from a bit of action, wraps up all of the questions in one neat package.
Leila's character vascillates between being really competent and absolutely silly. There's a moment when she won't get out of a boat which seemed to drop her right out of character.
The editing. There are quite a few incorrect words. It was not just once, but multiple times that I had to re-read a sentence, only to realise that there was a word that wasn't correct. The repeated use of the word stepson/brother for example - surely if you have the same mother, you're half siblings, not step siblings. Another simple one was the use of drug as the past tense of drag. (The correct term is dragged.) Or nob/knob. Simple things, easily fixed by a good proofread. I'm a bit of a spelling nazi, but incorrect word usage changes the meaning of a sentence and really needs to be sorted out.
Again, this story had lots of promise, but it just didn't quite get there for me in the end. Not bad, but not great.
The Good:
The beginning is interesting. (The prologue.) It left me wondering what was going to happen in the story and what might come of the characters as their story progressed.
Some of the characters. I was immediately drawn in by Leila the main protagonist. Her first few pages had me liking her. Sam was another character who had a strong beginning, and I was looking forward to seeing what might become of him. Some of the more minor characters were very strongly imagined, and I was disappointed that they only made short appearances.
The world building. I was intrigued by the world and the world structure from the beginning, although using "moon spell" for night initially threw me. I slowly became used to it, but I don't really think it was necessary. There is a lot of promise in this "world" but it does need to be more clearly defined in parts.
The growing relationship between Leila and her horse. This was probably the most realistic relationship of them all.
The Not So Good.
The story telling seemed quite rushed. Although by the end of the story there had been a complete story told, there wasn't enough lead-in for quite a few of the important plot pieces. We don't really understand Leila's relationship with her family, or why the country she comes from doesn't like magic, or why they make an exception for the royal family. There were hints, but nothing really concrete, which made Leila's very promising character less concrete.
A massive info dump three quarters of the way through. Just when the story really begins to get interesting, there's a massive info dump which is effectively overheard by the main characters and apart from a bit of action, wraps up all of the questions in one neat package.
Leila's character vascillates between being really competent and absolutely silly. There's a moment when she won't get out of a boat which seemed to drop her right out of character.
The editing. There are quite a few incorrect words. It was not just once, but multiple times that I had to re-read a sentence, only to realise that there was a word that wasn't correct. The repeated use of the word stepson/brother for example - surely if you have the same mother, you're half siblings, not step siblings. Another simple one was the use of drug as the past tense of drag. (The correct term is dragged.) Or nob/knob. Simple things, easily fixed by a good proofread. I'm a bit of a spelling nazi, but incorrect word usage changes the meaning of a sentence and really needs to be sorted out.
Again, this story had lots of promise, but it just didn't quite get there for me in the end. Not bad, but not great.
August 6, 2014
Take the gothic children’s tales of The Brother Grimm, add in a touch CS Lewis, a sprinkle of Neil Gaiman, and baste with Jim Henson’s workshop. Simmer for 300 pages, and you have Evelyn Ink’s “Ill Fated”.
And it’s pretty good.
Leila is the heir to kingdom of Bainland, but first must complete a Herculean-esque Trial in order to prove not only her worth, but also her family’s claim to the throne.
However, when her quest drags her into the danger filled Northern Lands, Leila in unprepared for the hazards and menaces that the strange land brings, and must seek alliances with unlikely friends if she is to achieve her goal.
Whilst the story starts slow, there is an interesting interweave with a parallel tale of a lost boy, which marries up with main plot later on. The subtext of the characters in the Northern Lands was interesting; the automatons representative of the working man who has his soul crushed by labor was a nice touch, but I would have liked to have seen more fleshing out of the world building, perhaps with commentary on economics, politics, and faith – the Northern Lands felt a bit sterile in that regard.
I had guessed the plot twist early on, but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable, and the sense of magic and wonder makes this a good read for middle graders and young adults.
And it’s pretty good.
Leila is the heir to kingdom of Bainland, but first must complete a Herculean-esque Trial in order to prove not only her worth, but also her family’s claim to the throne.
However, when her quest drags her into the danger filled Northern Lands, Leila in unprepared for the hazards and menaces that the strange land brings, and must seek alliances with unlikely friends if she is to achieve her goal.
Whilst the story starts slow, there is an interesting interweave with a parallel tale of a lost boy, which marries up with main plot later on. The subtext of the characters in the Northern Lands was interesting; the automatons representative of the working man who has his soul crushed by labor was a nice touch, but I would have liked to have seen more fleshing out of the world building, perhaps with commentary on economics, politics, and faith – the Northern Lands felt a bit sterile in that regard.
I had guessed the plot twist early on, but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable, and the sense of magic and wonder makes this a good read for middle graders and young adults.
April 16, 2014
Great characters and a distinctive world. A really good book. The main characters are interesting and well written. I particularly like the very strong female lead . One of the characters starts the book not only with no memory but with no ability to retain new memories for more than a few hours. That leads to interesting and unusual situations, problems and solutions.
Magic within the world deserves a special mention. It's well thought out and practical, especially in the cases where what seems to be magic turns out to be clever application of natural resources (I'm keeping this vague to avoid spoilers).
This is a great read and definitely recommended. I'm looking forward to reading more books set in this world.
Magic within the world deserves a special mention. It's well thought out and practical, especially in the cases where what seems to be magic turns out to be clever application of natural resources (I'm keeping this vague to avoid spoilers).
This is a great read and definitely recommended. I'm looking forward to reading more books set in this world.
November 7, 2012
By Evelyn Ink
Quests, adventure, scandals, danger, magic, romance, strong heroes, expertly interwoven storylines, mystery, and monsters. This book has it all.
Ill-fated follows Leila as she begins a perilous quest to prove her worth and right to rule as the heir to the Bainland throne. At only fourteen, this would seem like a daunting task, but every ruler before her has done the same at fourteen. Leila has been training for this for most of her life. It should be routine, if a bit dangerous, except the falling star that is to determine her course falls dead South. Southland is rumored to be full of dark magic and unsavory characters. So Leila sets off with only her awesomely fast horse, an unlucky number and a chip on her shoulder.
In Southland a boy about Leila's age has been wandering around with no recollection of his name or orgins. Each day he awakes without a memory of the day before or anything about himself, but strangely has general knowledge of Southland, figures, and writing. The captain of the ship he's on calls him Sam. But "Sam" is sure that's not his name nor does he belong with the crew that seem a lot like pirates. After jumping ship, Sam meets an old woman who helps him realize that he has a mind-lock. Until he can find someone to remove it, he will never remember much.
So Sam sets off to find help after a "sapping" that only temporarily clears his head to remember more than one day. His quest crosses Leila's quest and adventures abound in this dangerous frontier-like land of Southland where towns are a day's ride on horseback from each other, and it's legal to kidnap unescorted children and sell them into drudgery.
I really liked this book. In the beginning, the reader only gets vague directions on what her quest is, and like Leila we have to learn as we go. I absolutely loved Leila and Sam's characters. Leila is a strong female hero without being inaccessible or overly tough. She has some vulnerablilities that make her believable. Sam is optimistic but realistic in the face of his limitations. He comes up with plans and is very smart and perceptive. He also has a cute sense of humor especially with Leila. They have great chemistry. I am looking forward to their next adventures. I wasn't ready for the story to end. I was actually surprised when it did end. I thought the ending kind of jipped me. Not to give away too much, but the heroes didn't get their due in the climax like I thought they should have.
The plot is exciting and moves well. All goals are accomplished in interesting ways. I've been paying attention to world building and the author has built a well thought out world. It is filled with things we know but with uniquely different names and twists. The "magic" in Southland is inventive.
There are some plot details I wondered about with characters introduced early on and their roles later in the book. The old woman whom Sam meets, Captain Oren and Ash don't seem to have their stories complete or their actions clarified. However, these and other characters are entertaining and have distinctive personalities.
Descriptions were colorful and there are just enough of them. As the landscape changes, I was able to keep up because it is gradual and presented well.
I gave Ill-fated 4.8 out of 5. It is a colorful, a bit dangerous but not too scary, and a good read for ages 12 and up.
I would love to read more adventures with Leila and "Sam". Waiting for "adventure and romance on the high seas!"
Quests, adventure, scandals, danger, magic, romance, strong heroes, expertly interwoven storylines, mystery, and monsters. This book has it all.
Ill-fated follows Leila as she begins a perilous quest to prove her worth and right to rule as the heir to the Bainland throne. At only fourteen, this would seem like a daunting task, but every ruler before her has done the same at fourteen. Leila has been training for this for most of her life. It should be routine, if a bit dangerous, except the falling star that is to determine her course falls dead South. Southland is rumored to be full of dark magic and unsavory characters. So Leila sets off with only her awesomely fast horse, an unlucky number and a chip on her shoulder.
In Southland a boy about Leila's age has been wandering around with no recollection of his name or orgins. Each day he awakes without a memory of the day before or anything about himself, but strangely has general knowledge of Southland, figures, and writing. The captain of the ship he's on calls him Sam. But "Sam" is sure that's not his name nor does he belong with the crew that seem a lot like pirates. After jumping ship, Sam meets an old woman who helps him realize that he has a mind-lock. Until he can find someone to remove it, he will never remember much.
So Sam sets off to find help after a "sapping" that only temporarily clears his head to remember more than one day. His quest crosses Leila's quest and adventures abound in this dangerous frontier-like land of Southland where towns are a day's ride on horseback from each other, and it's legal to kidnap unescorted children and sell them into drudgery.
I really liked this book. In the beginning, the reader only gets vague directions on what her quest is, and like Leila we have to learn as we go. I absolutely loved Leila and Sam's characters. Leila is a strong female hero without being inaccessible or overly tough. She has some vulnerablilities that make her believable. Sam is optimistic but realistic in the face of his limitations. He comes up with plans and is very smart and perceptive. He also has a cute sense of humor especially with Leila. They have great chemistry. I am looking forward to their next adventures. I wasn't ready for the story to end. I was actually surprised when it did end. I thought the ending kind of jipped me. Not to give away too much, but the heroes didn't get their due in the climax like I thought they should have.
The plot is exciting and moves well. All goals are accomplished in interesting ways. I've been paying attention to world building and the author has built a well thought out world. It is filled with things we know but with uniquely different names and twists. The "magic" in Southland is inventive.
There are some plot details I wondered about with characters introduced early on and their roles later in the book. The old woman whom Sam meets, Captain Oren and Ash don't seem to have their stories complete or their actions clarified. However, these and other characters are entertaining and have distinctive personalities.
Descriptions were colorful and there are just enough of them. As the landscape changes, I was able to keep up because it is gradual and presented well.
I gave Ill-fated 4.8 out of 5. It is a colorful, a bit dangerous but not too scary, and a good read for ages 12 and up.
I would love to read more adventures with Leila and "Sam". Waiting for "adventure and romance on the high seas!"
April 26, 2013
Originally posted on my blog Books Before Bed here.
I was approached by Ms. Ink to do a review for her recently published book and was immediately captured by the synopsis. It sounded like just my type of adventure book and I was eager to try it. (side note: don't you just love this cover! The first one I was not a fan of, but regardless liked the synopsis as stated before, but this cover I think grabs the idea of the book and portrays it beautifully!)
In terms of strengths, in descending order, I would go: world building, characters, plot.
To expound: Ms. Ink deftly introduced us to a whole new world without having to do too much explaining. It wasn't anything overly complex (those can sometimes get tiresome to keep straight) but it was just different enough that I had the fantasy vibe that I so love when I read it. There were different words for things that we have in every day life (woolies, which I assumed were sheep, and popina for kitchen) that were surprisingly frequent throughout the book and could even be made into a dictionary, but here again was the strength, a dictionary wasn't needed! Being able to balance that was very well done and I enjoyed the world that was created.
The characters in this book were quite likable. Leila was brave and quite often reckless. She had her redeeming qualities and was an easy enough protagonist to follow, though sometimes she acted her age of just 14 years. Sam was an easier person to like and the narration jumps between their two points of view. This was deftly done as well and only once or twice did it take me a moment to realize who it was that was thinking something (the changes aren't necessarily by chapter or divided by icons, but happen all throughout the story). There is a bit of a romance brewing, but it felt forced sometimes, and other times there was the tension that makes me go squee inside, but it kind of got skimmed over, so not as much fulfillment there as I would have liked.
There were other characters throughout that, even though they were only present for a short time, made an impression. Some had too short of a time, however, and I wish more could have been done with them.
For plot, I was really grabbed at the beginning of the story and quickly read through almost the entire first half in a matter of days. The pacing was well done, new characters were introduced, and atmosphere was present, which was much appreciated. However, and this is why my review is for a 3 star rating, the end just wasn't as strong as the beginning lead me to expect. Things became a little too easy to guess what would happen and fell a little too easily into place. Even if there were other books after this one, and the ending, though it concludes, leaves that opening, I wanted more from this first book. It didn't fall flat, per se, but the ending didn't live up to its potential. Good, but not great.
Overall, I would recommend this book. I was very impressed with the skill of Ms. Ink's writing and enjoyed the time I spent with her characters. As she continues to refine her craft she is one to watch!
I was approached by Ms. Ink to do a review for her recently published book and was immediately captured by the synopsis. It sounded like just my type of adventure book and I was eager to try it. (side note: don't you just love this cover! The first one I was not a fan of, but regardless liked the synopsis as stated before, but this cover I think grabs the idea of the book and portrays it beautifully!)
In terms of strengths, in descending order, I would go: world building, characters, plot.
To expound: Ms. Ink deftly introduced us to a whole new world without having to do too much explaining. It wasn't anything overly complex (those can sometimes get tiresome to keep straight) but it was just different enough that I had the fantasy vibe that I so love when I read it. There were different words for things that we have in every day life (woolies, which I assumed were sheep, and popina for kitchen) that were surprisingly frequent throughout the book and could even be made into a dictionary, but here again was the strength, a dictionary wasn't needed! Being able to balance that was very well done and I enjoyed the world that was created.
The characters in this book were quite likable. Leila was brave and quite often reckless. She had her redeeming qualities and was an easy enough protagonist to follow, though sometimes she acted her age of just 14 years. Sam was an easier person to like and the narration jumps between their two points of view. This was deftly done as well and only once or twice did it take me a moment to realize who it was that was thinking something (the changes aren't necessarily by chapter or divided by icons, but happen all throughout the story). There is a bit of a romance brewing, but it felt forced sometimes, and other times there was the tension that makes me go squee inside, but it kind of got skimmed over, so not as much fulfillment there as I would have liked.
There were other characters throughout that, even though they were only present for a short time, made an impression. Some had too short of a time, however, and I wish more could have been done with them.
For plot, I was really grabbed at the beginning of the story and quickly read through almost the entire first half in a matter of days. The pacing was well done, new characters were introduced, and atmosphere was present, which was much appreciated. However, and this is why my review is for a 3 star rating, the end just wasn't as strong as the beginning lead me to expect. Things became a little too easy to guess what would happen and fell a little too easily into place. Even if there were other books after this one, and the ending, though it concludes, leaves that opening, I wanted more from this first book. It didn't fall flat, per se, but the ending didn't live up to its potential. Good, but not great.
Overall, I would recommend this book. I was very impressed with the skill of Ms. Ink's writing and enjoyed the time I spent with her characters. As she continues to refine her craft she is one to watch!
April 27, 2014
This fantasy takes you on a journey that was everything but slow, boring, or stale. The creative mind of the author kept you engaged and watching a great movie play out as fast as you could read it.
From the beginning of the book I wondered what was going to happen and that never changed. The character was anything but perfect which made you enjoy her even more. You saw her as a real person, not a perfect part of a real person. In fact at the end it was like saying goodbye to a new friend. I really wanted there to be more, and at the very end of the book I read she is now writing a sequel. This book does and can stand alone. The story ends on a good note, but how Evelyn wrote the story, you really got to enjoy these characters and want to spend some more time with them. You know, I wondered what they would do next. And I'll bet most everyone else will too.
Leila is the main character that flows on a quest from an affluent upbringing to the ills of dirt, danger and horrors. She doesn't become a person using her background to let others take the lead or do the dirty work. Her actions and reactions don't really surprise you once you get to know here, in fact they give you satisfaction. She's straightforward, non-assuming, and honest. That's her first quality, and far from her last. Her determination makes you root for her, and her morals gain your respect. She keeps you interested, entertained and happy to see what she does next. Interested yet?
Who she meets along her quest, and how the story unfolds will bring surprises and awwhh moments that only enhance the storyline. What I really watched for was the development of a romance between Leila and Cyrus. It was on the fringes and yet circumstances had to keep it at bay. Evelyn was good at keeping the emotions there yet not dwelling on them which I think could have made the storyline less exciting and more assuming than it was. She did bring that subject to the surface at the very end though, which only made me want more of them both. See what I mean? It needs a sequel.
The story is about a young girl on a quest she knows little about, to prove she can lead the people of her ruling father's kingdom. What she discovers in the quest changes her life, her knowledge and her destiny. It's a well written and highly entertaining story that anyone who enjoys fantasy or a mystery will love to read. I know I will now be reading her other books because a good writer usually has some great stories. Enjoy friends!
From the beginning of the book I wondered what was going to happen and that never changed. The character was anything but perfect which made you enjoy her even more. You saw her as a real person, not a perfect part of a real person. In fact at the end it was like saying goodbye to a new friend. I really wanted there to be more, and at the very end of the book I read she is now writing a sequel. This book does and can stand alone. The story ends on a good note, but how Evelyn wrote the story, you really got to enjoy these characters and want to spend some more time with them. You know, I wondered what they would do next. And I'll bet most everyone else will too.
Leila is the main character that flows on a quest from an affluent upbringing to the ills of dirt, danger and horrors. She doesn't become a person using her background to let others take the lead or do the dirty work. Her actions and reactions don't really surprise you once you get to know here, in fact they give you satisfaction. She's straightforward, non-assuming, and honest. That's her first quality, and far from her last. Her determination makes you root for her, and her morals gain your respect. She keeps you interested, entertained and happy to see what she does next. Interested yet?
Who she meets along her quest, and how the story unfolds will bring surprises and awwhh moments that only enhance the storyline. What I really watched for was the development of a romance between Leila and Cyrus. It was on the fringes and yet circumstances had to keep it at bay. Evelyn was good at keeping the emotions there yet not dwelling on them which I think could have made the storyline less exciting and more assuming than it was. She did bring that subject to the surface at the very end though, which only made me want more of them both. See what I mean? It needs a sequel.
The story is about a young girl on a quest she knows little about, to prove she can lead the people of her ruling father's kingdom. What she discovers in the quest changes her life, her knowledge and her destiny. It's a well written and highly entertaining story that anyone who enjoys fantasy or a mystery will love to read. I know I will now be reading her other books because a good writer usually has some great stories. Enjoy friends!
February 7, 2014
Ill-Fated, despite its brief title, is a creatively-written first novel by Katherine M. Frey (aka Evelyn Ink) that succeeds on many levels—character interest, plot and vocabulary.
I particularly like Ink’s invented words, such as moonspell, deckstormer, wandrian, questling, et al, which are neatly defined in the “espistemological expicarium” (aka index).
I won’t summarize the story, but will say it is well-crafted and is driven by characters who are distinct and interesting.
The impact of this novel is diminished, however, on two counts, both of which the author can fix. There are too many missing or misplaced commas in this story.
Here are some examples of missing or misplaced commas from just a few pages of one chapter:
• “Aunt Ehta to you muttonhead” (Needs a comma after you)
• “Well, in my defense he wasn’t always that fat.” (Needs a comma after defense)
• “Your mother Muriel sort of just fell apart after your father was murdered, she became obsessed with finding you…” (Needs a period, not a comma, after murdered)
• “In the first letter she told me she had made a friend, a Captain whose name she did not disclose.” (Needs commas after letter and after Captain)
• “This seemed odd to me, but at the time I simply thought his ulterior motive was perhaps Mother herself, she is still quite lovely for her age…” (Needs a period, not a comma, after herself)
Grammatical mistakes take the reader out of the story. Either they notice them and them start looking for more or the author’s intended sentence flow is disrupted, forcing the reader to re-read the sentence.
The second problem is Ink’s tendency to shift character viewpoint in the middle of a scene––in some cases jumping back and forth within a few paragraphs. This is problematic because the reader, who is following the story from one person’s viewpoint, can become confused when the author jumps to a second person mid-scene. I found this more at the beginning of the story, which suggests that the author became conscious of the issue. Too bad she didn’t go back and fix the earlier jumps.
Ink/Frey confesses to having edited Ill-Fated herself. That’s a no-no if she wants to make it to the big leagues, and I believe she has the writing chops to get there.
The ending of Ill-Fated promises a sequel. Please, Katherine/Evelyn, pay an editor.
I also recommend that the author takes more time choosing a title. Ill-Fated is too brief and too vague to do justice to this story.
I particularly like Ink’s invented words, such as moonspell, deckstormer, wandrian, questling, et al, which are neatly defined in the “espistemological expicarium” (aka index).
I won’t summarize the story, but will say it is well-crafted and is driven by characters who are distinct and interesting.
The impact of this novel is diminished, however, on two counts, both of which the author can fix. There are too many missing or misplaced commas in this story.
Here are some examples of missing or misplaced commas from just a few pages of one chapter:
• “Aunt Ehta to you muttonhead” (Needs a comma after you)
• “Well, in my defense he wasn’t always that fat.” (Needs a comma after defense)
• “Your mother Muriel sort of just fell apart after your father was murdered, she became obsessed with finding you…” (Needs a period, not a comma, after murdered)
• “In the first letter she told me she had made a friend, a Captain whose name she did not disclose.” (Needs commas after letter and after Captain)
• “This seemed odd to me, but at the time I simply thought his ulterior motive was perhaps Mother herself, she is still quite lovely for her age…” (Needs a period, not a comma, after herself)
Grammatical mistakes take the reader out of the story. Either they notice them and them start looking for more or the author’s intended sentence flow is disrupted, forcing the reader to re-read the sentence.
The second problem is Ink’s tendency to shift character viewpoint in the middle of a scene––in some cases jumping back and forth within a few paragraphs. This is problematic because the reader, who is following the story from one person’s viewpoint, can become confused when the author jumps to a second person mid-scene. I found this more at the beginning of the story, which suggests that the author became conscious of the issue. Too bad she didn’t go back and fix the earlier jumps.
Ink/Frey confesses to having edited Ill-Fated herself. That’s a no-no if she wants to make it to the big leagues, and I believe she has the writing chops to get there.
The ending of Ill-Fated promises a sequel. Please, Katherine/Evelyn, pay an editor.
I also recommend that the author takes more time choosing a title. Ill-Fated is too brief and too vague to do justice to this story.
April 15, 2014
Ill-Fated
by Evelyn Ink
Note: I am reviewing my own Kindle copy that I bought.
Ill-Fated is a Fantasy novel in a classic sense. Magic, monsters, a quest and wild adventure run through this book to great effect.
Young Leila is the heir to the throne of Bainland and as such it is tradition the she undertake a quest to prove her worth for the throne. When it is decried that she journey toward the forbidden south in “search of something that must be returned” she despairs, but pulls on her big girl panties and does what she has to.
Sam is the young man who can’t remember yesterday. Lost and confused, but with a mind full of auspicious facts, he is in search for the cure to the curse that has robbed him of his long term memories. And memories of ten minutes ago. And tomorrows memories too.
Fate crosses the two young teens when he seeks a cure from the man who has enslaved Leila. Together, her sharp wit and his library of facts ensure their mutual quest is an adventure of the lifetime. They seek to fulfill Leila’s quest and restore Sam’s memory.
Despite their shortcomings they are the perfect team and what they find shocks not only them but me as a reader. I won’t give away anything, you have to read the book to find out!
Positive: Leila and Sam trading sharp and witty dialog is the real draw of this book. Sarcastic and plain spoken, Leila thinks nothing of teasing Sam about being a half-wit, while Sam remembers nothing, and keeps teasing her about being a horse thief. As a team they are loyal to each other, even Sam who can’t remember her name half the time.
Negative: The beginning was slow and thick to wade through. The ages of the main characters was a little...unnerving. They were roughly 14 and 15 and this book was not geared for the mentality of such young teens, though in the end it was very G rated. If the main characters had been older, about 17 or 18, they would have fit in better with the themes (slavery, dark magic, etc.) I honestly forgot most of the time that they were so young since their battle prowess, wit, and foresight was very mature.
Rating: 4.0 stars of 5
by Evelyn Ink
Note: I am reviewing my own Kindle copy that I bought.
Ill-Fated is a Fantasy novel in a classic sense. Magic, monsters, a quest and wild adventure run through this book to great effect.
Young Leila is the heir to the throne of Bainland and as such it is tradition the she undertake a quest to prove her worth for the throne. When it is decried that she journey toward the forbidden south in “search of something that must be returned” she despairs, but pulls on her big girl panties and does what she has to.
Sam is the young man who can’t remember yesterday. Lost and confused, but with a mind full of auspicious facts, he is in search for the cure to the curse that has robbed him of his long term memories. And memories of ten minutes ago. And tomorrows memories too.
Fate crosses the two young teens when he seeks a cure from the man who has enslaved Leila. Together, her sharp wit and his library of facts ensure their mutual quest is an adventure of the lifetime. They seek to fulfill Leila’s quest and restore Sam’s memory.
Despite their shortcomings they are the perfect team and what they find shocks not only them but me as a reader. I won’t give away anything, you have to read the book to find out!
Positive: Leila and Sam trading sharp and witty dialog is the real draw of this book. Sarcastic and plain spoken, Leila thinks nothing of teasing Sam about being a half-wit, while Sam remembers nothing, and keeps teasing her about being a horse thief. As a team they are loyal to each other, even Sam who can’t remember her name half the time.
Negative: The beginning was slow and thick to wade through. The ages of the main characters was a little...unnerving. They were roughly 14 and 15 and this book was not geared for the mentality of such young teens, though in the end it was very G rated. If the main characters had been older, about 17 or 18, they would have fit in better with the themes (slavery, dark magic, etc.) I honestly forgot most of the time that they were so young since their battle prowess, wit, and foresight was very mature.
Rating: 4.0 stars of 5
March 13, 2018
I thought that Ill-Fated was an absolutely brilliant novel, and I would highly recommend it to just about anyone. Although it may be a little slow at the beginning, I found that the story picks up very quickly, and I became immensely immersed in the reading.
Both Leila and Sam are wonderful characters. Leila is strong, smart and funny, and makes for an excellent heroine. Sam, even with his memory lapses, proves to be a charming and clever character that you cannot help but love. Put the two of them together, and there is an unstoppable protagonist team.
Ill-Fated transports you into a world of magic and monsters, machinery and ships, prophecies and monarchy, that you will not be able to get enough of. Beautifully written, the novel captures your attention and refuses to let it go as you join the characters on their wild quest.
I especially liked the description that revolved around Sam's memory block. I thought that the mystery and intrigue that arose from his scrambled mind offered a great way to introduce the character, and add greatly to the plot. The "sappings" included some of my favorite quotes throughout the novel. The more that Sam was introduced throughout the story, the more that I liked him as a character.
If I have to complain about anything, the resolution of the story did happen a bit quickly. I think that I had grew so attached to the novel, that the ending seemed to come with little warning. Although it still worked over all, I think more could have been added. Needless to say, I would definitely not be opposed to reading more about Sam and Leila in the future!
If you are looking for a great fantasy read with action, witty dialogue, and a plot and characters that will keep you begging for more, Ill-Fated is a stunning find.
***review also posted on http://www.theyalitchick.blogspot.com
Both Leila and Sam are wonderful characters. Leila is strong, smart and funny, and makes for an excellent heroine. Sam, even with his memory lapses, proves to be a charming and clever character that you cannot help but love. Put the two of them together, and there is an unstoppable protagonist team.
Ill-Fated transports you into a world of magic and monsters, machinery and ships, prophecies and monarchy, that you will not be able to get enough of. Beautifully written, the novel captures your attention and refuses to let it go as you join the characters on their wild quest.
I especially liked the description that revolved around Sam's memory block. I thought that the mystery and intrigue that arose from his scrambled mind offered a great way to introduce the character, and add greatly to the plot. The "sappings" included some of my favorite quotes throughout the novel. The more that Sam was introduced throughout the story, the more that I liked him as a character.
If I have to complain about anything, the resolution of the story did happen a bit quickly. I think that I had grew so attached to the novel, that the ending seemed to come with little warning. Although it still worked over all, I think more could have been added. Needless to say, I would definitely not be opposed to reading more about Sam and Leila in the future!
If you are looking for a great fantasy read with action, witty dialogue, and a plot and characters that will keep you begging for more, Ill-Fated is a stunning find.
***review also posted on http://www.theyalitchick.blogspot.com
January 17, 2014
From Leila's Quester Journal: "The Stars Have Aligned to Make My Life Grim and Loathsome."
Leila Edgewick lives in Ashbain Castle and is in line to rule The Bainland. In order to win the throne, she must successfully fulfill a quest. A falling star shows the direction of her quest. The star indicates the dreaded South, the direction taken by an ancestor who never returned. Even with all the time training for combat, Leila shudders at the thought of the Southland. With a travesty of a runes casting and whispers of long-ago dishonor, Leila is on her own without any useful clues to help her complete her quest. And at all costs, she must avoid the cursed Shadowland.
Ophira, Leila's maidservant, is a well-educated witch. Since she'd come to the castle, Leila slept better, healed faster, and was less sick. With witchcraft a capital offense, Ophira has to keep her talents secret…if she wants to keep her head. Literally.
With his brain scrambled, Sam lands on the Bonesplitter, a ship with a mysterious mission. The captain uses Sam's accounting abilities, smug in the knowledge Sam can't tell what he can't retain in his mind. Sensing he is in danger, Sam escapes.
After Leila gets forced into drudgery by a "vomitus mass" of a creature, she meets Sam. The two face adversaries, endure shocks, and the unexpected reveals of true identities.
Ill-Fated, by Evelyn Ink, is an entertaining book for all ages. Ms. Ink's characters are fascinating. Leila's mother Bella is a diva whose bleak lack of faith in her daughter's successful completion of her quest cuts her daughter to the bone. The descriptions of Leila's ancestors are entertaining, and bring ancient, dark portraits to life for the reader. Ms. Ink's depiction of Leila and Sam's adventures is fun as well as compelling.
Leila Edgewick lives in Ashbain Castle and is in line to rule The Bainland. In order to win the throne, she must successfully fulfill a quest. A falling star shows the direction of her quest. The star indicates the dreaded South, the direction taken by an ancestor who never returned. Even with all the time training for combat, Leila shudders at the thought of the Southland. With a travesty of a runes casting and whispers of long-ago dishonor, Leila is on her own without any useful clues to help her complete her quest. And at all costs, she must avoid the cursed Shadowland.
Ophira, Leila's maidservant, is a well-educated witch. Since she'd come to the castle, Leila slept better, healed faster, and was less sick. With witchcraft a capital offense, Ophira has to keep her talents secret…if she wants to keep her head. Literally.
With his brain scrambled, Sam lands on the Bonesplitter, a ship with a mysterious mission. The captain uses Sam's accounting abilities, smug in the knowledge Sam can't tell what he can't retain in his mind. Sensing he is in danger, Sam escapes.
After Leila gets forced into drudgery by a "vomitus mass" of a creature, she meets Sam. The two face adversaries, endure shocks, and the unexpected reveals of true identities.
Ill-Fated, by Evelyn Ink, is an entertaining book for all ages. Ms. Ink's characters are fascinating. Leila's mother Bella is a diva whose bleak lack of faith in her daughter's successful completion of her quest cuts her daughter to the bone. The descriptions of Leila's ancestors are entertaining, and bring ancient, dark portraits to life for the reader. Ms. Ink's depiction of Leila and Sam's adventures is fun as well as compelling.
August 28, 2013
As much as I love fantasy novels, they can get tedious and tiring as you try to follow along as the author builds a whole new world. This was not the case with Evelyn Ink's Ill-Fated. Not to say that Evelyn did not create a comprehensive, detailed world (because she did!), but she didn't inundate me with too much; the background information about the world itself was seamlessly introduced with the story line, and I felt the story was always moving forward. I especially loved how there was no need for the new words to be tediously explained; I could picture in my mind just what woolies, blunderbuss, and skoltr were from the context and the author's choice of words. This freedom to let the reader imagine the world at his or her own pace was very liberating. The characters were the focus, and the world was built around them, which was refreshing after some recent reading of more dense fantasies that built the characters within a complex world.
The characters were very likable -- awfully mature for their young age, especially in the beginning -- and their interaction and the dialogue between them made me smile often. One thing of note was that I couldn't get used to the sudden changes in POV, particularly rampant in the second half of the book; though the frequent switching of POV wasn't necessarily confusing, it was a bit abrupt and at times, awkward. But overall, I very much enjoyed this book, and am looking forward to reading more from Evelyn Ink.
The characters were very likable -- awfully mature for their young age, especially in the beginning -- and their interaction and the dialogue between them made me smile often. One thing of note was that I couldn't get used to the sudden changes in POV, particularly rampant in the second half of the book; though the frequent switching of POV wasn't necessarily confusing, it was a bit abrupt and at times, awkward. But overall, I very much enjoyed this book, and am looking forward to reading more from Evelyn Ink.
January 15, 2014
Ill-fated by Evelyn Ink is a coming-of-age fantasy about a young woman, Leila Edgewick, on her obligatory quest at fourteen before she assumes the throne in the kingdom of The Bainland.
An ominous falling star signals the start of Leila’s journey into the dreaded southlands. Along the way, she learns how to sail, tangles with slavers, and meets a memory-muddled young man named Sam who is much more than he seems.
Ill-fated is a medieval magical world filled with memorable characters and their distinctive voices. Leila’s wise horse, Blisterwitch, is a fleet shadow who rescues the questing woman from many scrapes. The Bainland princess battles beasts, flees pursuers both human and magical, and visits a healer’s house. There is the constant problem with Sam’s magicked memory. It provides plenty of smiles and also many of the story’s poignant moments.
The many-layered plot reveals a profound wrong that Leila must make right, even though it might cost her The Bainland’s throne. The relentless pursuit of her by slavers makes for exciting chases, narrow misses, and a few disasters. Evelyn Ink’s magical world is a swirl of witchcraft, a broken portal leaking monsters into the southland, and earthy healing. Leila is a welcome change from the usual fourteen-year-old angst-ridden spoiled brat found in many YA stories. Her growth during the sojourn, and the satisfying friendship with Sam, makes for an absorbing and rich fantasy journey.
An ominous falling star signals the start of Leila’s journey into the dreaded southlands. Along the way, she learns how to sail, tangles with slavers, and meets a memory-muddled young man named Sam who is much more than he seems.
Ill-fated is a medieval magical world filled with memorable characters and their distinctive voices. Leila’s wise horse, Blisterwitch, is a fleet shadow who rescues the questing woman from many scrapes. The Bainland princess battles beasts, flees pursuers both human and magical, and visits a healer’s house. There is the constant problem with Sam’s magicked memory. It provides plenty of smiles and also many of the story’s poignant moments.
The many-layered plot reveals a profound wrong that Leila must make right, even though it might cost her The Bainland’s throne. The relentless pursuit of her by slavers makes for exciting chases, narrow misses, and a few disasters. Evelyn Ink’s magical world is a swirl of witchcraft, a broken portal leaking monsters into the southland, and earthy healing. Leila is a welcome change from the usual fourteen-year-old angst-ridden spoiled brat found in many YA stories. Her growth during the sojourn, and the satisfying friendship with Sam, makes for an absorbing and rich fantasy journey.
September 5, 2013
Ill-fated was a highly enjoyable read, for me. I loved the banter between the two main characters. There were many humorous scenes that were very well done. The main female protagonist is plucky and adorable. The sense of adventure is palpable and sustained. It is a novel that might best appeal to the YA adience, but at 42, I myself found it endearingly told. The author is obviously quite talented. The only thing keeping me from giving this book 5 stars is that the novel is replete with grammatical mistakes and typographical errors. When I say "replete with", I mean scores, not a handful, of problems. Normally a book with so many technical problems would at best get 3 stars from me, but the story itself was engrossing, lovable, and endearing. And despite the misspellings, the word omissions, and the fact that "then" was throughout the book used erroneously in place of "than", I had no problem adjusting my reading filter and enjoying the work for its imaginativeness. So, four stars from me. I hope that those reading this review will understand that normally I wouldn't even attempt to keep reading a book with so many technical errors; I finished it in a matter of days. That's a testimony to how good the story is. Kudos to the author. Get it professionally proofed and the manuscript updated, and republish. I can see it having almost all 5-star ratings after that!
September 8, 2014
I found this book both fun and frustrating. The plot was fast paced and exciting, but I kept getting thrown out of the story by the author’s made up words for ordinary things, Popina, Squich-squash, dorter, idlerile, wollies–(and the list goes on), not to mention her many editing errors. Words were misspelled or were actually the wrong words, for example–shuttered instead of shuddered or ease droppings instead of eavesdropping.
The characters were well built, though Leila dropped out of character a few times and sometimes her actions were a little unbelievable, I shook my head at the scene where Leila, a fourteen year old, was having a meal and a glass of ale in a tavern. Both Leila and Sam worked well together, and there was a lot of detail that went into some of the other characters, some of which had only a fleeting role in the story.
The author built a wonderful world, etching a depth of detail into her descriptions that made you want to believe, and the concepts of magic/science were intriguing. If only a little more care had been taken in the details, editing, paragraph breaks and chapter breaks, which were ill defined.
Despite the issues mentioned above, I did enjoy the story-line and concept of this book, but would I read the sequel? The answer is yes, providing it has been properly edited.
The characters were well built, though Leila dropped out of character a few times and sometimes her actions were a little unbelievable, I shook my head at the scene where Leila, a fourteen year old, was having a meal and a glass of ale in a tavern. Both Leila and Sam worked well together, and there was a lot of detail that went into some of the other characters, some of which had only a fleeting role in the story.
The author built a wonderful world, etching a depth of detail into her descriptions that made you want to believe, and the concepts of magic/science were intriguing. If only a little more care had been taken in the details, editing, paragraph breaks and chapter breaks, which were ill defined.
Despite the issues mentioned above, I did enjoy the story-line and concept of this book, but would I read the sequel? The answer is yes, providing it has been properly edited.
September 8, 2014
I love YA fiction, especially those which introduce me to new worlds, creatures, and vocabulary. Everything about this book is inventive and compelling.
Ms. Ink did a great job creating a wide variety of characters for readers to connect with and cheer for. We meet Leila, the independent fourteen year old daughter of a king who is sent on a quest to prove herself. A sense of the mysticism occurs when her quest is determined by which direction a falling star streaks across the night sky.
Trained to protect and provide for herself on this quest Leila is a can-do person. Given that she is fourteen and lacks street smarts she does fairly well in handling herself and those who come to rely upon her through out the book.
I found Sam, the person she forges an alliance with first, to be very engaging and a perfect foil to Leila's personality. Sharp but forgetful, he softens what could be an overly arrogant character. We eventually meet Cyrus, with who Leila develops an age appropriate romance. It was quite charming and developed to the perfect point.
A sequel to this book would be fantastic. I would love to reconnect with Leila and find out how she applies what's she learns on her quest to her life. But for now, I would recommend Ill-Fated to all age groups, it's creative, thoroughly entertaining.
Ms. Ink did a great job creating a wide variety of characters for readers to connect with and cheer for. We meet Leila, the independent fourteen year old daughter of a king who is sent on a quest to prove herself. A sense of the mysticism occurs when her quest is determined by which direction a falling star streaks across the night sky.
Trained to protect and provide for herself on this quest Leila is a can-do person. Given that she is fourteen and lacks street smarts she does fairly well in handling herself and those who come to rely upon her through out the book.
I found Sam, the person she forges an alliance with first, to be very engaging and a perfect foil to Leila's personality. Sharp but forgetful, he softens what could be an overly arrogant character. We eventually meet Cyrus, with who Leila develops an age appropriate romance. It was quite charming and developed to the perfect point.
A sequel to this book would be fantastic. I would love to reconnect with Leila and find out how she applies what's she learns on her quest to her life. But for now, I would recommend Ill-Fated to all age groups, it's creative, thoroughly entertaining.
May 2, 2013
This was a fun fantasy. It took me away from our world to a world just getting started in technology and science, with magick blending right in. The main characters were a fun, adventurous girl, Leila, and her brain-challenged friend, Sam. They are on an ill-fated quest. Who would want to do that? But these two manage to get into more trouble and have more fun in the process than seems possible. They meet some unsavory types that want to do them harm and other that just want to help but figuring out who is what keeps the reader guessing.
Characters, plot and world building are done seamlessly and suck the reader into this alternate, steampunkie place were magick has scientific backing, at least on that world.
There were a few editing issues that I wrote to the author about. None kept me from enjoy the story. I did have a hard time getting into the story at first but I think that was my brain not the fault of the author. From about twenty percent into the story I was hooked and didn't want to return to my own world.
This was a complimentary copy from the author for honest review. Thank you for letting me read this. I look forward to more books by Evelyn Ink.
Characters, plot and world building are done seamlessly and suck the reader into this alternate, steampunkie place were magick has scientific backing, at least on that world.
There were a few editing issues that I wrote to the author about. None kept me from enjoy the story. I did have a hard time getting into the story at first but I think that was my brain not the fault of the author. From about twenty percent into the story I was hooked and didn't want to return to my own world.
This was a complimentary copy from the author for honest review. Thank you for letting me read this. I look forward to more books by Evelyn Ink.
March 20, 2014
I really liked this book a lot - fantastic characters, a very creative world and I enjoyed the chemistry between Leila and Sam, through all of its different iterations. I thought the whole way the author handled Sam's memory loss and how their relationship navigated that was extremely well done, and I liked watching Leila evolve as a character, too. I thought the whole world she created with the Shadowlands and the distinctions between the kingdoms of North and South were very well done, too. It could be my own reading habits, but I don't think I've read a ton of epic-style fantasy that's more YA...the tone of this at times reminded me of the Hunger Games, which gave the fantasy aspect more of a grounded, real-world edge, as well as how she dealt with the magical system, leaving some doubt as to the lines between fantasy and magic and science. And there are steam punky elements, too, with the airships and the hints of a more production-line type world in the town of spinners and so on.
All in all, a very cool read...and an interesting combination of genres, tones and styles, with a creatively conceived world. I will definitely pick up more of this author's work!
All in all, a very cool read...and an interesting combination of genres, tones and styles, with a creatively conceived world. I will definitely pick up more of this author's work!
September 2, 2013
As the heir to the throne of Bainland Leila must complete a task, a quest to fulfill her destiny on her fourteenth birthday. Rare are the failures. Fail the quest, forfeit the throne. As her father's only child it is on her shoulders to maintain the family claim.
But her star falls south, into the Ramblings past the wall. It is a wild place full of dangerous beasts and magic prohibited in the Northern lands of her home. The Southlands are a place Leila isn't prepared for at all. Only one other questling has gone south before her - and he didn't return.
This is YA, and I'm not a huge YA fan. This story starts slow and has interruptions to a parallel story line of a boy called Sam for no apparent reason other than he and Leila obviously will meet (why else would we be reading about him?). But once the story lines come together the pace picks up. The banter between Leila and Sam is well written. Solid plot, imaginative world build and well drafted characters make for quite an adventure. I love the way this book ends.
But her star falls south, into the Ramblings past the wall. It is a wild place full of dangerous beasts and magic prohibited in the Northern lands of her home. The Southlands are a place Leila isn't prepared for at all. Only one other questling has gone south before her - and he didn't return.
This is YA, and I'm not a huge YA fan. This story starts slow and has interruptions to a parallel story line of a boy called Sam for no apparent reason other than he and Leila obviously will meet (why else would we be reading about him?). But once the story lines come together the pace picks up. The banter between Leila and Sam is well written. Solid plot, imaginative world build and well drafted characters make for quite an adventure. I love the way this book ends.
September 2, 2013
The author did an amazing job. The colorful characters, decriptive landscapes, and the lore of this imaginary world of hers was expertly woven together, brining it all to life in my mind, and I did appreciate the fact that she didn't bog my mind down with unnecessary details that didn't move the story along. Leila and Sam had quite the adventure, and the characters they met along the way were quite appropriate, given the circumstances of each situation. The author expertly gave you just enough information about the world she built, and the characters she put in it, that you didn't even feel like you were trying to imagine an entirely new world. Without giving anything away, let me just say that it ended exactly as I had hoped it would :) A solid 5 stars for this book, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I will be watching for other titles by her!
October 7, 2012
I wasn't expecting to like this book so much. How much is that? I enjoyed this book more than the Hunger Games, A Song of Fire and Ice Series, and Divergent, all of which I have read recently. The characters were likable and relatable, the story was fast paced and creative, and the writing was excellent! Evelyn Ink's writing never took me out of the story, it drew me in and pulled me forward. I rarely give 5 stars, (five are reserved only for well worn classics that I always have to have on my bookcase) but I couldn't think of anything to take a star away for so there you have it! Can't wait to read more of the author's books!
June 15, 2013
Fourteen year old Leila Edgewick has been training for her entire life for one thing, her quest to prove her worth to the Bainland throne. Her mission leads her to the magical and dangerous lands of the South. The same direction that the last questling never to return traveled towards.
On her journey, Leila meets a boy named Sam whose memory has been erased by black magic. Leila offers to help Sam retain his memory in exchange for his guidance through the South. Follow the two on their exciting and dangerous undertaking.
I suggest not reading this book until you have time to read the entire novel because you will not want to put it down.
On her journey, Leila meets a boy named Sam whose memory has been erased by black magic. Leila offers to help Sam retain his memory in exchange for his guidance through the South. Follow the two on their exciting and dangerous undertaking.
I suggest not reading this book until you have time to read the entire novel because you will not want to put it down.
August 14, 2014
I really loved this story - yes, it's YA fantasy, but Ms Ink sets the scene so well you can't help but feel like you're right there alongside Leila, for the whole adventure. Hell, there's a whole new vocabulary in this story, bringing the fantasy world home to the reader like nothing else. The story and world alone are worth five stars - and I hope there's another book after this one.
What jarred me out of the story were the frequent errors - not just typos, but many instances where the wrong word was used on almost every page. "Lessoned" where the word required was "lessened"; "were" instead of "we're"...those are just two off the top of my head.
Well worth a read.
What jarred me out of the story were the frequent errors - not just typos, but many instances where the wrong word was used on almost every page. "Lessoned" where the word required was "lessened"; "were" instead of "we're"...those are just two off the top of my head.
Well worth a read.
August 25, 2013
The main character of this story is Leila and as soon as the tale begins you are drawn into her fantasy world as she sets off on a quest filled with adventure, excitement and danger.
The description is detailed and characters are well-written. There is never a dull moment in this voyage.
When Leila teams up with Sam they forge a partnership which is as satisfying as Peter and Wendy in Peter Pan. This pair will grip your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page has been turned.
A truly exciting read.
The description is detailed and characters are well-written. There is never a dull moment in this voyage.
When Leila teams up with Sam they forge a partnership which is as satisfying as Peter and Wendy in Peter Pan. This pair will grip your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page has been turned.
A truly exciting read.
September 29, 2013
Ill-fated is a fantasy packed with adventure. Aeroskiffs, mysterious mountains, old legends and beastly creatures will definitely keep you turning the pages and on your toes. The dialogue is catchy and fun and Evelyn Ink did a wonderful job creating her world with colorful language. The back and forth point of views of Leila and Sam at the beginning kept the story moving with a super fast pace.
I highly recommend Ill-fated for the fantasy adventure lover and with a little more editing, it would have struck 5 stars!
I highly recommend Ill-fated for the fantasy adventure lover and with a little more editing, it would have struck 5 stars!
December 11, 2012
This book was a lot of fun! The narrator's sense of humor was evident from the get-go, and I loved the words the author invented to help create a special world for the characters. Leila, the main character, is a good alternative to the insipid heroines of books like "Twilight." I appreciate how she is such a physical character, capable of defending herself. The entire book was full of rollicking adventure and I look forward to a sequel!
December 4, 2013
I cannot properly describe how much I love this book! I took me almost a year to get around to reading it and now I wish I started sooner. The plot is so well created and not overly confusing. The characters take such a life of their own it's as if they are real people. It's adventure and fantasy and a dash of romance but not so much it's overbearing. I love this book and highly recommend it.
July 28, 2013
Interesting premise. I enjoyed the characters and the plot seemed to be moving right along, but apparently I didn't know what the conflict was supposed to be because it seemed to me the book finished rather abruptly with, what I thought was the main conflict, resolved while the main character was asleep.
September 19, 2013
The beginning was a little uneven, and it could use a slightly tighter proofreading, but it was a well told story, overall. The characters world and banter are well set up, although the quick pace at which we're hustled through their introduction to their quest sort of threw me and made it difficult to engage with them at first. It's not exactly my type of story, but I enjoyed it anyways.
November 15, 2013
The premise and the description is good. Characters are described very opposite to what they might be...couldn't fathom much of the ending. The story does not sound too much like of an ill-fated person with several things falling right, or so I thought?
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