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Two men tied to her irrevocably. One offers life disguised as death; the other leads to death with unfathomable love. Her choice decides whether the world turns or ends.
Lucienne Lam, born to rule as the last of the Sirens, is running out of time. If she fails to find the TimeDust, an ancient power, her enemies will have their wish—her head on a spike. And she’ll never know the love promised by Vladimir, a fierce warrior of the Czech royal bloodline.
Except Ashburn, a genius ‘farm boy,’ has found the TimeDust first, and its power binds Lucienne to him. She must convince him to sever this forced bond so she can return to her first love. But breaking the link seems insurmountable when the TimeDust launches its own ominous agenda and the two men prepare to duel to the death over her.
Lucienne Lam, born to rule as the last of the Sirens, is running out of time. If she fails to find the TimeDust, an ancient power, her enemies will have their wish—her head on a spike. And she’ll never know the love promised by Vladimir, a fierce warrior of the Czech royal bloodline.
Except Ashburn, a genius ‘farm boy,’ has found the TimeDust first, and its power binds Lucienne to him. She must convince him to sever this forced bond so she can return to her first love. But breaking the link seems insurmountable when the TimeDust launches its own ominous agenda and the two men prepare to duel to the death over her.
278 pages, Paperback
First published August 8, 2014
141 people are currently reading
1209 people want to read
About the author
Meg Xuemei X
119 books2,267 followersMeg Xuemei X is a USA Today and Amazon Charts bestselling author of paranormal and fantasy romance. She loves writing badass heroines and hot psycho alphaholes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 18, 2016
I read this for two reasons. One I was doing an A to Z author challenge in a group and tying to stay within fantasy and sci-fi. X is an impossible letter. Two it was free.
I had to force myself to finish it because X is impossible but I have to admit it wasn't all bad. It would be a great book for a teen girl. It could be a pilot for a series popular like Vampire Diaries. Some of the alternate history tie-ins were actually interesting but in the end way too much "she trembled as he drew near" for me to really like it.
Clean and teen approved.
I had to force myself to finish it because X is impossible but I have to admit it wasn't all bad. It would be a great book for a teen girl. It could be a pilot for a series popular like Vampire Diaries. Some of the alternate history tie-ins were actually interesting but in the end way too much "she trembled as he drew near" for me to really like it.
Clean and teen approved.
August 30, 2015
I have to say that this book was a pleasant surprise. And you know what’s so awesome? The action never stops. After I got a few chapters into it I actually went back to the beginning of the book to check and make sure I hadn’t skipped anything. The book just kind of throws you into the action without you really knowing what is going on, and you just have to figure it out along the way. What surprised me more though was that I ended up liking that. It gives the author a chance to world build, but without boring you to tears for the first couple of chapters. I mean really, trust me, you will never be bored during this book.
So Lucienne. She was actually a really likable character. She is the first female Siren, and that basically makes her royalty. Usually in these kinds of books the girl doesn’t know who she is or what she is until she is a teenager. I actually think Lucienne is the first female lead I’ve read about who has known the whole time what her “destiny” is. So it was weird to see her actually grow up with the privileges she has as royalty---it was weird to see her act like royalty.
But this wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. She was able to take control of a situation when she needed to. She used all of her training and her title to her advantage, and that ended up saving a lot of lives, but she was never really rude unless she had to be. She was the perfect balance of strong and kind, and I really admired her for that.
Now I have to say this, there was one thing that I didn’t like about the book... the love triangle. I used to love love triangles for the first couple of books that I read. I mean the more guys the merrier right? Wrong. It makes for super good romance in the first couple books, and then you get to the final book and the character is forced to choose. And if the author has done a good job, which Meg Xuemei X did, then you fall in love with both of the guys and don’t want to see one of them heartbroken. Heartbreak Part 1 happened at the end of this book, and it literally tore my heart in half.
So let’s talk about these love interests. I’ll start with Vladimir,my soul mate.
I loved him from the start. He wasn’t always the most serious guy, but I actually really liked that. He was really funny, and he cared about Lucienne so much. I didn’t take him seriously for a lot of the book, because of how goofy he acts. However, that is until someone crossed Lucienne. Then shit got real.
Now Ashburn,the love of my life.
I have to admit that I didn’t really like him in the beginning. The connection he had with Lucienne was creepy and unnatural. However, him and Luciene spent a lot of time together later in the book and you could see some real feelings start to grow that had nothing to do with their creepy magic bond thingy. Also, he is really attractive so...
Do you see how conflicted I am? Why can’t one of them be mean and disgusting so that it isn’t so hard to chose?
Anyways, despite my inner turmoil, I loved this book! It will make you feel so many emotions, granted some that you don’t want to feel, but that is what makes it so good. Read it, and I’m certain that you will be just as hooked as I am!
Check out the rest of my reviews on my blog Read All Night, Sleep All Day
So Lucienne. She was actually a really likable character. She is the first female Siren, and that basically makes her royalty. Usually in these kinds of books the girl doesn’t know who she is or what she is until she is a teenager. I actually think Lucienne is the first female lead I’ve read about who has known the whole time what her “destiny” is. So it was weird to see her actually grow up with the privileges she has as royalty---it was weird to see her act like royalty.
But this wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. She was able to take control of a situation when she needed to. She used all of her training and her title to her advantage, and that ended up saving a lot of lives, but she was never really rude unless she had to be. She was the perfect balance of strong and kind, and I really admired her for that.
Now I have to say this, there was one thing that I didn’t like about the book... the love triangle. I used to love love triangles for the first couple of books that I read. I mean the more guys the merrier right? Wrong. It makes for super good romance in the first couple books, and then you get to the final book and the character is forced to choose. And if the author has done a good job, which Meg Xuemei X did, then you fall in love with both of the guys and don’t want to see one of them heartbroken. Heartbreak Part 1 happened at the end of this book, and it literally tore my heart in half.
So let’s talk about these love interests. I’ll start with Vladimir,
I loved him from the start. He wasn’t always the most serious guy, but I actually really liked that. He was really funny, and he cared about Lucienne so much. I didn’t take him seriously for a lot of the book, because of how goofy he acts. However, that is until someone crossed Lucienne. Then shit got real.
Now Ashburn,
I have to admit that I didn’t really like him in the beginning. The connection he had with Lucienne was creepy and unnatural. However, him and Luciene spent a lot of time together later in the book and you could see some real feelings start to grow that had nothing to do with their creepy magic bond thingy. Also, he is really attractive so...
Do you see how conflicted I am? Why can’t one of them be mean and disgusting so that it isn’t so hard to chose?
Anyways, despite my inner turmoil, I loved this book! It will make you feel so many emotions, granted some that you don’t want to feel, but that is what makes it so good. Read it, and I’m certain that you will be just as hooked as I am!
Check out the rest of my reviews on my blog Read All Night, Sleep All Day
February 13, 2017
'I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS.'
Gahhhh! Okay, so this book was definitely better than I had anticipated, and it always makes me so sad when books that have these awesome premises and fantastic writing styles just don't manage to get the hype that some of the bigger series do.
Xuemei did a wonderful job with world building in this book, never really info dumping and always moving the story along at a pace that was never too much. Goodness was the action in this book just utterly perfect. From the first page, you're sucked into the world of the "Sirens" and all the mythology that goes along with it.
I loved Lucienne, despite her being a bit too "teenage girl" for me at times. Overall though, I didn't find it to be a turnoff or I could work past it enough to enjoy the story line for what it was.
This book is definitely worth checking out, and I'm definitely glad that I read it. I will most certainly move onto the next book at some point.
Gahhhh! Okay, so this book was definitely better than I had anticipated, and it always makes me so sad when books that have these awesome premises and fantastic writing styles just don't manage to get the hype that some of the bigger series do.
Xuemei did a wonderful job with world building in this book, never really info dumping and always moving the story along at a pace that was never too much. Goodness was the action in this book just utterly perfect. From the first page, you're sucked into the world of the "Sirens" and all the mythology that goes along with it.
I loved Lucienne, despite her being a bit too "teenage girl" for me at times. Overall though, I didn't find it to be a turnoff or I could work past it enough to enjoy the story line for what it was.
This book is definitely worth checking out, and I'm definitely glad that I read it. I will most certainly move onto the next book at some point.
November 1, 2014
The ancient myth of the Siren’s is a myth as old as time. In Homer’s the Odyssey, these creatures were of unparalleled beauty and exquisite in every way. They would stand on the shores of the sea, spinning their enchantments for the ears of the Sailors beyond, luring them in with their perfection and playing on the men’s lust. But the Siren was not simply a beauty to behold that went only skin deep like the sailors would have liked to believe. These creatures contained powers greater than anyone could have ever surmised; they held the power to pursued and enrapture, extracting loyalty from all their voices could reach. The Sirens were a race beyond that of a mere mortal, and knowing they outmatched humanity in the way of mind games, they declared themselves the ultimate race.
The Sirens in the Odyssey are but one shade of a tale that is centrifugal around the understanding on Sirens. In Love’s Prey, the Sirens have indeed become a greater race, but have infused themselves in the middle of the human race. The Lam family, a family of Siren Blood, lived in the greater Chicago area. For years, Jed, The Siren, had been searching for his successor to take his place and carry out the destiny of the race. All the grandsons and sons of Jed were tested and ultimately made candidates to become the heir apparent. That is until a little baby girl, crying and wailing, was brought to the Red Mansion in which the Siren lived. It had been millions of years since a girl was produced from the lineage of the Lam family, and although women were not considered for the position as Siren, Jed found the extraordinary circumstance of the birth of a girl to be no coincidence. He immediately placed a test before her to see if his curiosity had led him correctly, and to the shock of everyone, she passed the test. The test was a matter of choice. Many objects were placed in front of her, and depending on what she chose, she was either a viable candidate, or simply a bothersome, fussy child. To Jed’s amazement, this tiny child who had never had to make a choice in her life prior to that moment, chose with such decisiveness and certainty that he knew one day she would become the Siren. None of the other candidates had even come close to making the right decision. But Lucienne had. She had picked the ancient scroll, one of three in existence throughout the world that was the key to the purpose of the Siren. This demonstration of her boldness in choice would later in life serve her well, because in the years to come, there were many choices that would lay before her, and their outcome affected more than simply her.
At sixteen years old, Lucia was heralded the new Siren. As thrilled as she was to be the Chosen One to fulfill the duty of her race and bring all the realms of the galaxies together, she discovered that the cost her destiny demanded was insurmountably steep. She was in love, and this was something so new and foreign to her that it fueled her and brought her much happiness and even more drive to be the best Siren she could. What’s more, is that that love was returned to her in equal measure. Vladimir was her one and only. He saved her life and from that moment on, she wanted her life to be his. Until tragedy struck and the mark of the Siren demanded that she not be involved with him physically. This put a strain on the relationship to say the least, but their love was so deep for one another that they did everything they could to stay together, without giving in to their passions for one another.
When word breaks that the Sealers, a riotous band of family members who held a grudge against Lucia for being the Chosen one wanted her dead, she, Vlad, and her faithful army traveled to the island of Sphinxes, an island that her ancestors had acquired centuries before. Lucia and Kian, her most trusted soldier, Vlad and the others had transformed this island into the new headquarters for the Siren and her mission, which was to find The Eye of Time and unlock the quantum planes and reveal Etern. Only when she accomplished this, could the curse be lifted and she could be with Vlad. Amid their research, a sudden change occurred in the atmosphere, signaling the presence of a lost city, or a city that was hidden to the rest of the world and could only be accessed through the paranormal. This is where the real journey began. Lucia knew that this is where she would find the Eye of Time, but when she arrived there she found more than she bargained for. The island which they now knew was called Nirvana was the home of a boy named Ashburn, and it would soon come to be that Ashburn was a necessary piece to the puzzle of the quest, but what piece no one was very sure. Throughout the journey, things become complicated the more Ashburn becomes entangled with the Siren and her crew. But what was even more dangerous was that since his very nature was so conflicted, no one could decipher whether he was made of light or darkness. The decisions that demanded resolution because of his existence became to pile high, and Lucia was the only one who could possibly make these choices, even when they were deemed impossible.
Xuemei has written a very original plot that dances on many story lines of ancient myths, and givens them the most enchanting and invigorating twist. Her themes are timeless but most certainly not stale. She has blown the dust off some story lines that have been overused and abused, and breathed a fresh set of well-placed words onto it. I appreciate that she took a very well-known mythical creature and twisted it so that Lucia could still be a heroine in a paranormal setting, but she let just enough of the original traits of the Siren which are so uniquely theirs that it made Lucia so much more interesting. It is refreshing to read a YA that still has magic in its binding, but are free of Vampires, Zombies, Witches and Werewolves. For this purpose alone, this book would stand out among the rest, but her adept story telling even furthers that agenda. Never once was I confused as to where I was or what was going on. The book had the fluidity to it that all writers hope for. It was a page turner and I actually could not put it down.
More importantly to me however, was a thread that she weaved in her story that you would have to look closely to see but once you do, it’s as bright and brazen as all the rest. Xuemei addresses the importance of choice. In almost every situation the characters are placed in, a choice stands in front of them. At some points, the choice may seem to be no choice at all because the cause for what was occurring could not be traced. But even still, she created a space where a choice could still be made. Do I lie down and roll over and give into the inevitability that I am ill equipped to change? Or do I fight with every part of me not to give into the pull and fight to figure out its purpose. There is nothing more valuable to learn in life than that you ALWAYS have a choice, even when you don’t see one. You make choices every day and are completely unaware that you are making them. Xuemei conveys that we need to start paying more attention to all the decisions we make, because not only are we responsible for their outcome, but that outcome reaches beyond you alone.
I very much enjoyed this book. I am already anxiously awaiting the second book in the series. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars, and if there were more stars to give, I would tack them on as well. This is a must read and an author to watch. I very much look forward to what comes next in the lives of all of the Characters and to watch this book rise in notoriety.
The Sirens in the Odyssey are but one shade of a tale that is centrifugal around the understanding on Sirens. In Love’s Prey, the Sirens have indeed become a greater race, but have infused themselves in the middle of the human race. The Lam family, a family of Siren Blood, lived in the greater Chicago area. For years, Jed, The Siren, had been searching for his successor to take his place and carry out the destiny of the race. All the grandsons and sons of Jed were tested and ultimately made candidates to become the heir apparent. That is until a little baby girl, crying and wailing, was brought to the Red Mansion in which the Siren lived. It had been millions of years since a girl was produced from the lineage of the Lam family, and although women were not considered for the position as Siren, Jed found the extraordinary circumstance of the birth of a girl to be no coincidence. He immediately placed a test before her to see if his curiosity had led him correctly, and to the shock of everyone, she passed the test. The test was a matter of choice. Many objects were placed in front of her, and depending on what she chose, she was either a viable candidate, or simply a bothersome, fussy child. To Jed’s amazement, this tiny child who had never had to make a choice in her life prior to that moment, chose with such decisiveness and certainty that he knew one day she would become the Siren. None of the other candidates had even come close to making the right decision. But Lucienne had. She had picked the ancient scroll, one of three in existence throughout the world that was the key to the purpose of the Siren. This demonstration of her boldness in choice would later in life serve her well, because in the years to come, there were many choices that would lay before her, and their outcome affected more than simply her.
At sixteen years old, Lucia was heralded the new Siren. As thrilled as she was to be the Chosen One to fulfill the duty of her race and bring all the realms of the galaxies together, she discovered that the cost her destiny demanded was insurmountably steep. She was in love, and this was something so new and foreign to her that it fueled her and brought her much happiness and even more drive to be the best Siren she could. What’s more, is that that love was returned to her in equal measure. Vladimir was her one and only. He saved her life and from that moment on, she wanted her life to be his. Until tragedy struck and the mark of the Siren demanded that she not be involved with him physically. This put a strain on the relationship to say the least, but their love was so deep for one another that they did everything they could to stay together, without giving in to their passions for one another.
When word breaks that the Sealers, a riotous band of family members who held a grudge against Lucia for being the Chosen one wanted her dead, she, Vlad, and her faithful army traveled to the island of Sphinxes, an island that her ancestors had acquired centuries before. Lucia and Kian, her most trusted soldier, Vlad and the others had transformed this island into the new headquarters for the Siren and her mission, which was to find The Eye of Time and unlock the quantum planes and reveal Etern. Only when she accomplished this, could the curse be lifted and she could be with Vlad. Amid their research, a sudden change occurred in the atmosphere, signaling the presence of a lost city, or a city that was hidden to the rest of the world and could only be accessed through the paranormal. This is where the real journey began. Lucia knew that this is where she would find the Eye of Time, but when she arrived there she found more than she bargained for. The island which they now knew was called Nirvana was the home of a boy named Ashburn, and it would soon come to be that Ashburn was a necessary piece to the puzzle of the quest, but what piece no one was very sure. Throughout the journey, things become complicated the more Ashburn becomes entangled with the Siren and her crew. But what was even more dangerous was that since his very nature was so conflicted, no one could decipher whether he was made of light or darkness. The decisions that demanded resolution because of his existence became to pile high, and Lucia was the only one who could possibly make these choices, even when they were deemed impossible.
Xuemei has written a very original plot that dances on many story lines of ancient myths, and givens them the most enchanting and invigorating twist. Her themes are timeless but most certainly not stale. She has blown the dust off some story lines that have been overused and abused, and breathed a fresh set of well-placed words onto it. I appreciate that she took a very well-known mythical creature and twisted it so that Lucia could still be a heroine in a paranormal setting, but she let just enough of the original traits of the Siren which are so uniquely theirs that it made Lucia so much more interesting. It is refreshing to read a YA that still has magic in its binding, but are free of Vampires, Zombies, Witches and Werewolves. For this purpose alone, this book would stand out among the rest, but her adept story telling even furthers that agenda. Never once was I confused as to where I was or what was going on. The book had the fluidity to it that all writers hope for. It was a page turner and I actually could not put it down.
More importantly to me however, was a thread that she weaved in her story that you would have to look closely to see but once you do, it’s as bright and brazen as all the rest. Xuemei addresses the importance of choice. In almost every situation the characters are placed in, a choice stands in front of them. At some points, the choice may seem to be no choice at all because the cause for what was occurring could not be traced. But even still, she created a space where a choice could still be made. Do I lie down and roll over and give into the inevitability that I am ill equipped to change? Or do I fight with every part of me not to give into the pull and fight to figure out its purpose. There is nothing more valuable to learn in life than that you ALWAYS have a choice, even when you don’t see one. You make choices every day and are completely unaware that you are making them. Xuemei conveys that we need to start paying more attention to all the decisions we make, because not only are we responsible for their outcome, but that outcome reaches beyond you alone.
I very much enjoyed this book. I am already anxiously awaiting the second book in the series. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars, and if there were more stars to give, I would tack them on as well. This is a must read and an author to watch. I very much look forward to what comes next in the lives of all of the Characters and to watch this book rise in notoriety.
May 22, 2015
Can you say action? This is non stop. There is no lollygagging, no strolling through pages, this is an on the edge of your seat what happens next and oh my god that was so cool kind of book.
So much is packed into The Siren that through the fun ride you have to pay attention. That's not hard though because each page is so much fun to read I devoured every word.
Meg Xuemei has written an incredibly original and imaginative tale that takes us deep into a world where the cool things are possible, the tech is super advanced and the history/legends are alive and kicking.
Lucienne is not only a strong young lady but it is easy to like and root for. Vladimir staels the show time and again with is quick wit and sharp tongue (which sometimes he forgets to rein in).
The writing is just so fun and fast paced that the colorful world and adventure leaps out and gets your heart rate up, you are there with the Siren and her warriors seeking, chasing, being chased.
I love the book, and am excited to have stumbled into a little genre of it's own in Ms. Xuemei's world. Also, cool name right? :-)
The cover of this book is stunning, I actually stopped reading a few times to look back at it, it certainly doesn't fail to give an idea of what's inside!
So much is packed into The Siren that through the fun ride you have to pay attention. That's not hard though because each page is so much fun to read I devoured every word.
Meg Xuemei has written an incredibly original and imaginative tale that takes us deep into a world where the cool things are possible, the tech is super advanced and the history/legends are alive and kicking.
Lucienne is not only a strong young lady but it is easy to like and root for. Vladimir staels the show time and again with is quick wit and sharp tongue (which sometimes he forgets to rein in).
The writing is just so fun and fast paced that the colorful world and adventure leaps out and gets your heart rate up, you are there with the Siren and her warriors seeking, chasing, being chased.
I love the book, and am excited to have stumbled into a little genre of it's own in Ms. Xuemei's world. Also, cool name right? :-)
The cover of this book is stunning, I actually stopped reading a few times to look back at it, it certainly doesn't fail to give an idea of what's inside!
April 9, 2016
I was given a copy of this book to read in exchange of an honest review.
Read the review on the blog.
Ummmmm….what should I say about this book….Amazing, spell bound. I loved it very much. It is a combination of sci-fiction, fantasy, history and lots of action and romance. I loved the characters Lucienne, Kian MacQuillen, specially the Czech boy Valdimir Blazek. The story will hold your attention till the end. And very fast moving as well. At no point you will feel you are reading a book, but rather it’s like watching a 3D movie.
The beginning of the book gives an incite about the Tibet monastery and the Khampas. Lucienne Lam, the only female Siren, is the subject of jealous among her own relatives. Her life is in danger, not from any outsider but from her own Lam family members. She wants to prove her stance as a Siren, by finding the other two scrolls. Valdimir is a very young and handsome guy, in love with Lucia, and he is capable of risking his own life to save Lucienne’s life.
Oh…I fell in love with Vald. He is a guy who is very good looking with irresistible eyes. He is never really serious about anything and is very funny and talkative. He can make anyone feel easy even in a life threatening situation. I loved the love chemistry between Lucia and Vald. Vald helps Lucia to acquire the second scroll and even jumps from the cliff to save Lucia.
Kian is very protective towards Lucia. He hated Vald in the beginning but eventually he started liking Vald.
The romance in the book is un-comparable. Reader will get immersed in it. Lucia, though she also loves Vald, but she is shy to let him know about her true feeling for him. The first kiss of Lucia and Vlad: on a moonlit night, in the midst of a dark forest, sitting on the back of the stallions. Oh, how romantic. What followed after that was really very un-fortunate. Though Vald and Lucia, love each other, they cannot stay together. For Lucia’s kiss is life threatening for Valdimir.
Lucienne, being the Siren, needs to find the time dust, before her enemies find it. Vald and Kian with a team of experts are there to help Lucia in every possible way. But before, she could find the eye of time, Ashburn, a brilliant farm boy found it. I didn’t not like Ashburn in the first instance. But his non-violent and friendly attitude towards Lucia and other characters will make you love him. He has got the power from the time of eye and he and Lucia gets attracted towards each other because of this. Lucia, to test Ashburn’s tolerance, puts him in danger. But Ashburn, in return , never missed a chance to save Lucia.
I cannot wait to get the sequel. I just wish Valdimir comes back to Lucia in the next sequel and the attraction between Ashburn and Lucia dies.
Read the review on the blog.
Ummmmm….what should I say about this book….Amazing, spell bound. I loved it very much. It is a combination of sci-fiction, fantasy, history and lots of action and romance. I loved the characters Lucienne, Kian MacQuillen, specially the Czech boy Valdimir Blazek. The story will hold your attention till the end. And very fast moving as well. At no point you will feel you are reading a book, but rather it’s like watching a 3D movie.
The beginning of the book gives an incite about the Tibet monastery and the Khampas. Lucienne Lam, the only female Siren, is the subject of jealous among her own relatives. Her life is in danger, not from any outsider but from her own Lam family members. She wants to prove her stance as a Siren, by finding the other two scrolls. Valdimir is a very young and handsome guy, in love with Lucia, and he is capable of risking his own life to save Lucienne’s life.
Oh…I fell in love with Vald. He is a guy who is very good looking with irresistible eyes. He is never really serious about anything and is very funny and talkative. He can make anyone feel easy even in a life threatening situation. I loved the love chemistry between Lucia and Vald. Vald helps Lucia to acquire the second scroll and even jumps from the cliff to save Lucia.
Kian is very protective towards Lucia. He hated Vald in the beginning but eventually he started liking Vald.
The romance in the book is un-comparable. Reader will get immersed in it. Lucia, though she also loves Vald, but she is shy to let him know about her true feeling for him. The first kiss of Lucia and Vlad: on a moonlit night, in the midst of a dark forest, sitting on the back of the stallions. Oh, how romantic. What followed after that was really very un-fortunate. Though Vald and Lucia, love each other, they cannot stay together. For Lucia’s kiss is life threatening for Valdimir.
Lucienne, being the Siren, needs to find the time dust, before her enemies find it. Vald and Kian with a team of experts are there to help Lucia in every possible way. But before, she could find the eye of time, Ashburn, a brilliant farm boy found it. I didn’t not like Ashburn in the first instance. But his non-violent and friendly attitude towards Lucia and other characters will make you love him. He has got the power from the time of eye and he and Lucia gets attracted towards each other because of this. Lucia, to test Ashburn’s tolerance, puts him in danger. But Ashburn, in return , never missed a chance to save Lucia.
I cannot wait to get the sequel. I just wish Valdimir comes back to Lucia in the next sequel and the attraction between Ashburn and Lucia dies.
February 10, 2015
See this review and others like it in a more awesome format at Ramblings On ReadingsThe Siren is filling the category “Author Outside Your Own Country” in my Full House Reading Challenge. (Technically I think she lives in America now but she grew up in China).
The Siren is an extremely unique book. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but I got something quite unlike any YA book I’ve read recently. It’s a fascinating combination of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Romance, Mystery, Action…and somehow, it all works together beautifully.
The Siren is an extremely unique book. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but I got something quite unlike any YA book I’ve read recently. It’s a fascinating combination of Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Romance, Mystery, Action…and somehow, it all works together beautifully.
If you’re looking for a kickass heroine, look no farther than Lucienne Lam. As the first and only female Siren, she rules over a very wealthy organization that’s looking for an ancient power known as the Time Dust, which will ensure that she can remain the Siren. Because she’s a girl, there are plenty who want her dead, as there has never before been a female siren. But those closest to her do not hesitate to sacrifice for her safety.
For the first bit of this book, we are solidly in the normal, what appeared present day. And then things get really weird, when Lucienne’s scientist spot an anomaly up in the Aleutian Islands, and when they arrive, they find a city that appears to be in a different time. A quick-tempered King rules a rural people, and no one there even knows what America is. They have no technology (at least nothing they don’t attribute to the work of the gods), no knowledge of the outside world. But Lucienne knows that it is where she will find the Eye of Time.
It’s also where she finds Ashburn Fury, a young man who somehow has a genius’ understanding of quantum physics, the ability to create advanced technology, and has memories that he can’t possibly have. Not to mention there’s a strange connection between him and Lucienne that feels almost like a magical spell.
There’s a sweet romance between Lucienne and her friend Vladimir, a Czech Prince who has sworn to stay with her and protect her. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and develop. There’s also quite a bit of tension when Lucienne and Ashburn’s connection is noticed.
The Siren is fast-paced, action packed, and a fascinating maze of mysteries. Highly recommended for fans of sci-fi.
September 15, 2014
The Siren (Laments of Angels & Dark Chemistry, #1) by Meg Xuemei X
Lucienne Lam is destined to be the first female Siren. She must find The Time Dust in order to keep her title and stay alive. She faces many dangers and enemies to get the ancient power. With the help of Vladimir, a Czech warrior by her side, they are ready to face what they must, and their growing feelings for each other. Then they encounter Ashburn, a commoner genius who found The Time Dust. Soon Lucienne finds she must make a choice, a difficult choice that will put the world at risk of coming to an end and her life as well.
A well written fast paced thrilling adventure with a strong female lead. I really Liked Lucienne. She is one tough young lady who won't back down and who will fight for what she wants. Vladimir was also likable and another strong character. The chemistry between Lucienne and Vladimir makes the story exciting.
Just enough romance to keep the story warm, yet focused on Lucienne's mission to keep the adventure going strong. Add Ashburn and his secret feelings for her and the tension heats up. I feel that Young Adult (as well as Adult) lovers of fantasy/adventure/suspense/romance will enjoy The Siren.
Lucienne Lam is destined to be the first female Siren. She must find The Time Dust in order to keep her title and stay alive. She faces many dangers and enemies to get the ancient power. With the help of Vladimir, a Czech warrior by her side, they are ready to face what they must, and their growing feelings for each other. Then they encounter Ashburn, a commoner genius who found The Time Dust. Soon Lucienne finds she must make a choice, a difficult choice that will put the world at risk of coming to an end and her life as well.
A well written fast paced thrilling adventure with a strong female lead. I really Liked Lucienne. She is one tough young lady who won't back down and who will fight for what she wants. Vladimir was also likable and another strong character. The chemistry between Lucienne and Vladimir makes the story exciting.
Just enough romance to keep the story warm, yet focused on Lucienne's mission to keep the adventure going strong. Add Ashburn and his secret feelings for her and the tension heats up. I feel that Young Adult (as well as Adult) lovers of fantasy/adventure/suspense/romance will enjoy The Siren.
November 25, 2014
I have to say that this new series is so awesome! It blends fantasy, science fiction, action, and romance perfectly. I fell in love with all the characters—Lucienne, Prince Vladimir, and Ashburn Fury. Lucienne is truly a badass heroine. I loved to watch her every move. As for Vladimir, even his temper, jealousy, and other flaws are hot. Ashburn is also a complex character. By the end of the book we still don’t know his origin. He’s mighty, mysterious, emotionally tormented.
I wonder how Lucienne is going to choose between the two equally powerful boys who both give her their hearts.
I wonder how Lucienne is going to choose between the two equally powerful boys who both give her their hearts.
March 7, 2015
The Siren- very good story line. Fun read.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book and new author. Don't normally read this genre, but decided to give it a shot. Very surprised at the detail and characters. They really came to life for me. The romance was touching and the heroes were spectacular! Left you wanting to read more of Megan Xuemei X's books.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book and new author. Don't normally read this genre, but decided to give it a shot. Very surprised at the detail and characters. They really came to life for me. The romance was touching and the heroes were spectacular! Left you wanting to read more of Megan Xuemei X's books.
January 19, 2017
Extraordinary reading experience for me. Since I tend to read several books at once, unable to keep my interest intact for the whole story, it speaks for itself that I have read this one in one breath, taking only several hours of my time and making me ache for more books from this series.
Lucienne is the first female Siren in centuries, which makes her many enemies and leads to many dangers. She is trained to be ruthless and fearless, ambitious and dominant. But she also has warm heart and where men see her emotions as weakness, she considers it a virtue. During the hunt for ancient scrolls willing to break her curse, she comes to contact with enormously intelligent entity with special abilities, hidden in a body of irresistible, absolutely attractive man. But Lucienne´s heart belonged to someone else..
I cannot find enough superlatives to describe the book, so I will stuck to the few that are on my mind now. Excellently written, very smooth and fluent, with lots of dialogues that sped the story forward. Along the fast pace and great development of both storyline and characters, there were many unexpected twists, and huge amount of action, suspense, drama and romance. One could even say it was emotionally draining, that´s how wide the variety of provided emotional experience was.
I absolutely admired Lucienne. Being the tough leader, determined, strong and seemingly unbreakable, she is surprisingly human, caring and protective. Andthe two men of her life... Vladimir is adorable with his aura of confidence, humor, tease, and fearless love. But Ash, with his loving heart, protectiveness, strong will, and traces of despair and tragedy swirling behind that perfect face, is hard to resist and not feel for. This love triangle ensures enough romantic suspense and trouble to keep the reader interested in the relationship development all the time.
Siren was a brilliant read and I am sure the rest of the series would climb up my TBR list.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the "Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club" on Goodreads
Lucienne is the first female Siren in centuries, which makes her many enemies and leads to many dangers. She is trained to be ruthless and fearless, ambitious and dominant. But she also has warm heart and where men see her emotions as weakness, she considers it a virtue. During the hunt for ancient scrolls willing to break her curse, she comes to contact with enormously intelligent entity with special abilities, hidden in a body of irresistible, absolutely attractive man. But Lucienne´s heart belonged to someone else..
I cannot find enough superlatives to describe the book, so I will stuck to the few that are on my mind now. Excellently written, very smooth and fluent, with lots of dialogues that sped the story forward. Along the fast pace and great development of both storyline and characters, there were many unexpected twists, and huge amount of action, suspense, drama and romance. One could even say it was emotionally draining, that´s how wide the variety of provided emotional experience was.
I absolutely admired Lucienne. Being the tough leader, determined, strong and seemingly unbreakable, she is surprisingly human, caring and protective. Andthe two men of her life... Vladimir is adorable with his aura of confidence, humor, tease, and fearless love. But Ash, with his loving heart, protectiveness, strong will, and traces of despair and tragedy swirling behind that perfect face, is hard to resist and not feel for. This love triangle ensures enough romantic suspense and trouble to keep the reader interested in the relationship development all the time.
Siren was a brilliant read and I am sure the rest of the series would climb up my TBR list.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the "Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club" on Goodreads
August 7, 2015
The Siren is an amazing combination of Sci-Fi and fantasy. It is not your typical YA fantasy novel. Lucienne Lam is the first female to be born into a long line of Sirens. She is chosen as heir of the Sirens despite her gender, which results in the birth of an organization known as the Sealers. The Sealers are composed of her male family members and their allies that wish to see her dead and buried. She must prove that she is the rightful heir and fulfill the prophecy.
Lucienne's story takes her on an mission to obtain a sacred scroll from Tibetan monks. There, her companion and fellow thief Vladimir confesses his love for her. Unfortunately, Lucienne's kiss can kill Vlad, so she must avoid his advances until she has fulfilled the prophecy.
When Lucienne tries to do what she believes is necessary to pursue her destiny, she is thrown into a battle against the TimeDust, a Seraphan, and a boy the ancients have designed to be with her. She must chose between Vlad and Ashburn. If she chooses wrong, she may bring about the destruction of the world.
I loved the characters. They were interesting and multi-faceted. And, I really enjoyed how unique this book is in comparison to other books in this genre. I am looking forward to reading the sequel Nexus Tear.
Lucienne's story takes her on an mission to obtain a sacred scroll from Tibetan monks. There, her companion and fellow thief Vladimir confesses his love for her. Unfortunately, Lucienne's kiss can kill Vlad, so she must avoid his advances until she has fulfilled the prophecy.
When Lucienne tries to do what she believes is necessary to pursue her destiny, she is thrown into a battle against the TimeDust, a Seraphan, and a boy the ancients have designed to be with her. She must chose between Vlad and Ashburn. If she chooses wrong, she may bring about the destruction of the world.
I loved the characters. They were interesting and multi-faceted. And, I really enjoyed how unique this book is in comparison to other books in this genre. I am looking forward to reading the sequel Nexus Tear.
February 7, 2017
The Siren by Meg Xuemei
"I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS."
I have to admit, this isn’t what I expected.
The characters are interesting – the two boys made a complicated love triangle, although personally I am rooting for Ashburn. The chemistry between the two is more intense, though Vladimir was also a great guy, leaving everything behind for love.
For the plot – well, from the title I thought she’s going to be a mermaid of some sort, with powers that could lure men to death. Clearly, it wasn’t the case, but I still love this book. I admit at times I am still confused whether it was futuristic or dystopian or a different world altogether. But the plot is fresh; it isn’t something I have read before.
The pace of the story is also good – it wasn’t rushed, except for the first part. I was hoping to read more about Vladimir’s relationship with Lucienne before they went scroll hunting.
There are a lot of interesting turns of events, especially towards the ending, which was a shocking way to end the book. I can’t wait to read the book!
Overall, I’d rate this 5 stars. It’s not like any futuristic book written; it’s a different world but with the same quest to fulfill one’s destiny.
"I VOLUNTARILY REVIEWED A COPY FROM THE "RACHEL E. CARTER YA BOOK CLUB ON GOODREADS."
I have to admit, this isn’t what I expected.
The characters are interesting – the two boys made a complicated love triangle, although personally I am rooting for Ashburn. The chemistry between the two is more intense, though Vladimir was also a great guy, leaving everything behind for love.
For the plot – well, from the title I thought she’s going to be a mermaid of some sort, with powers that could lure men to death. Clearly, it wasn’t the case, but I still love this book. I admit at times I am still confused whether it was futuristic or dystopian or a different world altogether. But the plot is fresh; it isn’t something I have read before.
The pace of the story is also good – it wasn’t rushed, except for the first part. I was hoping to read more about Vladimir’s relationship with Lucienne before they went scroll hunting.
There are a lot of interesting turns of events, especially towards the ending, which was a shocking way to end the book. I can’t wait to read the book!
Overall, I’d rate this 5 stars. It’s not like any futuristic book written; it’s a different world but with the same quest to fulfill one’s destiny.
September 14, 2015
This is the second book I've read by this talented author (the first was "Love's Prey," which I also highly recommend). But one is different. How can I describe the experience of reading "The Siren"?
The voice and style are unlike anything I've come across before--it's sort of a strange fusion of manga, James Bond, and cyberpunk. You get the impression that Meg X has somehow tapped into a complete, alternate universe filled with fantastic gadgets, exotic locations, and larger-than-life characters. The result is suspenseful, fast-paced, and exhilarating. It's like sampling a new, exotic cuisine ... just open your mind and go with it. This intoxicating feast of mythology, romance, and weird glamour will leave you salivating for the next delicious meal.
The voice and style are unlike anything I've come across before--it's sort of a strange fusion of manga, James Bond, and cyberpunk. You get the impression that Meg X has somehow tapped into a complete, alternate universe filled with fantastic gadgets, exotic locations, and larger-than-life characters. The result is suspenseful, fast-paced, and exhilarating. It's like sampling a new, exotic cuisine ... just open your mind and go with it. This intoxicating feast of mythology, romance, and weird glamour will leave you salivating for the next delicious meal.
Want to read
February 15, 2015Free on Amazon today!
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00MLHS2IM...
US - http://www.amazon.com/Siren-Laments-A...
UK - http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00MLHS2IM...
US - http://www.amazon.com/Siren-Laments-A...
May 27, 2015
Keeps you reading
Very complicated and has everything you would want in a story. I am looking
forward to following Meh Xuemei X.
Very complicated and has everything you would want in a story. I am looking
forward to following Meh Xuemei X.
July 22, 2015
Is a great book to read
February 2, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the "Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club on Goodreads".
I was intrigued by this book after reading the blurb so jumped at the chance of reading and reviewing it. I wasn't disappointed as it was very well written.
The Siren is a YA fantasy, maybe with a hint of myth and scifi as well as lots of fast paced action, humorous one -liners and romance. The story centres on Lucienne, the first female Siren , finding this 'Timedust' before her enemies.
As ever there is the inevitable love triangle present in most YA novels. This time it was hard to pick a 'team' as both guys were extremely likeable though I think I'll go with Vladimir, the young Czech prince. He is always there for her and you really feel for him when you realise that their love can never be until she 'breaks the curse'and then,when this newcomer, Ashburn Fury shows up on the scene. As Ashburn has already found the 'Timedust', it seems that he is bound to Lucienne and they are drawn to each other. Poor Vladimir is left heartbroken and this is where the story ends, leaving you craving the next installment. There are some questions left unanswered especially about Ashburn's past.
I was intrigued by this book after reading the blurb so jumped at the chance of reading and reviewing it. I wasn't disappointed as it was very well written.
The Siren is a YA fantasy, maybe with a hint of myth and scifi as well as lots of fast paced action, humorous one -liners and romance. The story centres on Lucienne, the first female Siren , finding this 'Timedust' before her enemies.
As ever there is the inevitable love triangle present in most YA novels. This time it was hard to pick a 'team' as both guys were extremely likeable though I think I'll go with Vladimir, the young Czech prince. He is always there for her and you really feel for him when you realise that their love can never be until she 'breaks the curse'and then,when this newcomer, Ashburn Fury shows up on the scene. As Ashburn has already found the 'Timedust', it seems that he is bound to Lucienne and they are drawn to each other. Poor Vladimir is left heartbroken and this is where the story ends, leaving you craving the next installment. There are some questions left unanswered especially about Ashburn's past.
March 15, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the "Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club" on Goodreads
His scent was like a wild river rushing under the summer sun, making her blood wild.
Alright, so I received a recommendation to read this quite a while ago (unfortunately the recommendation is no longer listed among the ones I've received so I'm guessing whoever recommended it to me has left Goodreads). When it was announced as one of the books that would be available for a Read & Review through the Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club I was very, very happy because I had not been able to find it anywhere.
First, let's go through the things that I enjoyed with this book:
-- The main character, Lucienne. The definition of girl power, I'd say - especially since she's, genetically, not supposed to exist as her line (the Sirens) can only breed males. She has her faults - such as being a bit impulsive at times - but I still found her to be a really good main character.
-- The fact that the story has a modern setting. When reading the synopsis I was 100% sure it was set in some historical past - and I found it really interesting that it was, in fact, a modern, technological Earth that I faced when I read the first chapter.
-- The technology. The Sirens have a lot of impressive technological inventions at their disposal - and the best scientists. Back in school I hated the subject of physics (honestly, it was the only subject that I only got a good grade in because I was good at studying in general, not because I enjoyed what I was studying), but I've found that - as an adult - the subject of quantum physics is incredibly intriguing. This book had quite a bit of that, which I liked a lot.
As you can see, however, I only rated this 3 stars. A medium rating. Which means that there were things I did not enjoy that much as well.
-- What the synopsis describes does not even begin to happen until half-way through the book. Which means that, until I got to that point, I felt as if I was reading a completely different story and was incredibly confused.
-- The world-building was somewhat lacking. I was already confused because of the synopsis-thing mentioned above and I felt that the world-building did not help lessen that confusion. At times it was incredibly difficult to understand what was going on, where it was happening and between which characters.
-- The love-triangle itself. This isn't such a big thing, really, because it's in the synopsis and I'm not that against love-triangles - and this one had some logical reasons for being a thing - but whereas the romance bits were good before the love-triangle was introduced, afterwards everything in this area felt a bit "meh". I would have loved to have some more details in every romantic situation the characters found themselves in (you know I'm a sucker for details).
All in all, a medium rating and I will most likely try to read the next book in the series as well.
His scent was like a wild river rushing under the summer sun, making her blood wild.
Alright, so I received a recommendation to read this quite a while ago (unfortunately the recommendation is no longer listed among the ones I've received so I'm guessing whoever recommended it to me has left Goodreads). When it was announced as one of the books that would be available for a Read & Review through the Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club I was very, very happy because I had not been able to find it anywhere.
First, let's go through the things that I enjoyed with this book:
-- The main character, Lucienne. The definition of girl power, I'd say - especially since she's, genetically, not supposed to exist as her line (the Sirens) can only breed males. She has her faults - such as being a bit impulsive at times - but I still found her to be a really good main character.
-- The fact that the story has a modern setting. When reading the synopsis I was 100% sure it was set in some historical past - and I found it really interesting that it was, in fact, a modern, technological Earth that I faced when I read the first chapter.
-- The technology. The Sirens have a lot of impressive technological inventions at their disposal - and the best scientists. Back in school I hated the subject of physics (honestly, it was the only subject that I only got a good grade in because I was good at studying in general, not because I enjoyed what I was studying), but I've found that - as an adult - the subject of quantum physics is incredibly intriguing. This book had quite a bit of that, which I liked a lot.
As you can see, however, I only rated this 3 stars. A medium rating. Which means that there were things I did not enjoy that much as well.
-- What the synopsis describes does not even begin to happen until half-way through the book. Which means that, until I got to that point, I felt as if I was reading a completely different story and was incredibly confused.
-- The world-building was somewhat lacking. I was already confused because of the synopsis-thing mentioned above and I felt that the world-building did not help lessen that confusion. At times it was incredibly difficult to understand what was going on, where it was happening and between which characters.
-- The love-triangle itself. This isn't such a big thing, really, because it's in the synopsis and I'm not that against love-triangles - and this one had some logical reasons for being a thing - but whereas the romance bits were good before the love-triangle was introduced, afterwards everything in this area felt a bit "meh". I would have loved to have some more details in every romantic situation the characters found themselves in (you know I'm a sucker for details).
All in all, a medium rating and I will most likely try to read the next book in the series as well.
February 5, 2017
"The Siren" an imaginative scify -fantasy explodes with action at a Tibet Temple after Lucienne (Lucia) Lam the first female born in the Siren line for thousands of years and notorious playboy Prince Vladimir Blazek having stolen a sacred scroll are being chased by monks and face impending death only to be saved at the last minute by her friend and guard Kian McQuillen. Entrusted as a Siren with the duty of seeking "the Eye of Time", the scroll brings Lucia one step closer to finding the powerful sentient artifact that will open the portal to "Eterne". But her problems are further compounded by an internal conflict spurred on by family jealousies with her ascension as the Siren, and with the discovery that "Eye of Time" has infused a Nirvanan farm boy with the power of the "TimeDust".
Set between the Sphinxes, an unchartered island in the Pacific where Lucia, Vladimir, and her retinue have taken up residence after the death of her grandfather, and Nirvana a town on an isolated Alaskan island, the plot heats up with the unearthing of an ancient power and a prophecy both connected to Lucia and a once crippled farm boy,Ashburn Fury. Tension in the story escalates when Lucia yearning to break the curse that keeps her from kissing the teenage prince and warrior she loves discovers that the "Time Dust" inherent in the Eye of Time has not only chosen Ashburn but that there's a magnetic attraction between the two of them. Intensity and suspense increase as Lucia struggles to uncover the secret of their attraction while coping with Vladimir's jealousy, staving off a clash with the bitter King and angry people of Nirvana, and battling Ashburn's guardian who wants her dead.
Although I got lost at times in the flow of the story because of a lack of pertinent details, the plot is fascinating as Lucia struggles to find her destiny while coping with a family war, an ancient sentient power and the love of two men tied irrevocably to her. Fast-paced and action-packed the plot pulls you in with its blending of myth, science-fiction, mystery and romance , keeping you on the edge of your seat until the startling cliff-hanger near the end.
Cleverly Meg Xuemei X has created larger-than life, complex characters that are unforgettable like Lucienne (Lucia) Lam a force of nature who's spirited, strong-minded, suspicious and has a streak of ruthlessness she must learn to control. Vladimir Blazek a Czeck prince and warrior who gave up his notorious playboy ways when he fell in love with Lucia is arrogant, vain and sullen when thwarted, but has a keen sense of humor. Ashburn Fury, a genius who can read minds and holds memories of billions living and dead is also kind, protective, disciplined and selfless. He tries to stay away from Lucia knowing that their fate promises life or death for the world, and not wanting the latter. It is these characters and a bevy of others that bring the story to life, infusing it with high-energy, passion and drama.
I liked "The Siren" the first novel in what promises to be an exciting new series and couldn't put it down until finished. I look forward to seeing what happens next in the lives of Lucia and the two young men who love her.
Set between the Sphinxes, an unchartered island in the Pacific where Lucia, Vladimir, and her retinue have taken up residence after the death of her grandfather, and Nirvana a town on an isolated Alaskan island, the plot heats up with the unearthing of an ancient power and a prophecy both connected to Lucia and a once crippled farm boy,Ashburn Fury. Tension in the story escalates when Lucia yearning to break the curse that keeps her from kissing the teenage prince and warrior she loves discovers that the "Time Dust" inherent in the Eye of Time has not only chosen Ashburn but that there's a magnetic attraction between the two of them. Intensity and suspense increase as Lucia struggles to uncover the secret of their attraction while coping with Vladimir's jealousy, staving off a clash with the bitter King and angry people of Nirvana, and battling Ashburn's guardian who wants her dead.
Although I got lost at times in the flow of the story because of a lack of pertinent details, the plot is fascinating as Lucia struggles to find her destiny while coping with a family war, an ancient sentient power and the love of two men tied irrevocably to her. Fast-paced and action-packed the plot pulls you in with its blending of myth, science-fiction, mystery and romance , keeping you on the edge of your seat until the startling cliff-hanger near the end.
Cleverly Meg Xuemei X has created larger-than life, complex characters that are unforgettable like Lucienne (Lucia) Lam a force of nature who's spirited, strong-minded, suspicious and has a streak of ruthlessness she must learn to control. Vladimir Blazek a Czeck prince and warrior who gave up his notorious playboy ways when he fell in love with Lucia is arrogant, vain and sullen when thwarted, but has a keen sense of humor. Ashburn Fury, a genius who can read minds and holds memories of billions living and dead is also kind, protective, disciplined and selfless. He tries to stay away from Lucia knowing that their fate promises life or death for the world, and not wanting the latter. It is these characters and a bevy of others that bring the story to life, infusing it with high-energy, passion and drama.
I liked "The Siren" the first novel in what promises to be an exciting new series and couldn't put it down until finished. I look forward to seeing what happens next in the lives of Lucia and the two young men who love her.
July 30, 2015
Reviewed By Faridah Nassozi for Readers’ Favorite
https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...
The Siren - Laments of Angels & Dark Chemistry by Meg Xuemei X is a flawless blend of sci-fi, YA fantasy, supernatural events, romance, adventure, action, suspense and intrigue. It is a captivating mix of medieval settings with advanced technology, ancient cities and practices, super sophisticated tech labs, time travel and physics theories millions of years ahead of time, and yet all of it feels so effortlessly believable. What is absolutely fascinating about the book is how Meg Xuemei X managed to effortlessly blend these contrasting themes so flawlessly to give the reader a thrilling experience. The already exciting plot is brought to life with vivid descriptive writing and characters that are fresh and have real depth. The Siren - Laments of Angels & Dark Chemistry - is a one of a kind young adult story and the start of a truly captivating series. I cannot wait to read book 2 and see where this awesome adventure takes us.
https://readersfavorite.com/book-revi...
The Siren - Laments of Angels & Dark Chemistry by Meg Xuemei X is a flawless blend of sci-fi, YA fantasy, supernatural events, romance, adventure, action, suspense and intrigue. It is a captivating mix of medieval settings with advanced technology, ancient cities and practices, super sophisticated tech labs, time travel and physics theories millions of years ahead of time, and yet all of it feels so effortlessly believable. What is absolutely fascinating about the book is how Meg Xuemei X managed to effortlessly blend these contrasting themes so flawlessly to give the reader a thrilling experience. The already exciting plot is brought to life with vivid descriptive writing and characters that are fresh and have real depth. The Siren - Laments of Angels & Dark Chemistry - is a one of a kind young adult story and the start of a truly captivating series. I cannot wait to read book 2 and see where this awesome adventure takes us.
August 11, 2015
This book was a nice read, I enjoyed the story line and the characters. I felt that the story should have done a little deep in to the relationship between some characters to show why they are that way. As the only female Siren Lucienne Lam had to prove to her self and enemies that she had the right to be Siren. I like the fact that she was driven to get what she wanted and also the whole in love with two guys thing was a little one sided even though she was interested in Ash she still kept going back to Vlad I hope book two will even that out keep us guessing who she will pick. Overall I like this book I will keep and eye out for book two and tell a friend to try it. But in hoping book two will have more action than the first and we will get to meet some of Lucienne real enemies that are in her own family.
December 16, 2016
Not great. Not super bad either, but not particularly good.
Here's my issue with it. It feels VERY much like it was written as a serial. The chapters are episodic and there is a certain amount of repetition that suggests plot recaps. Plus, since it is (or feels like it is) a serial, it doesn't actually end. Reading this was very much like watching a television show that you follow, but only catch every other show. You know the plot, but bits are missing that you just have to roll with. Characters showed up with no history or explanation, simply inserted in the plot. Characters who had existed suddenly have hobbies or habits that the reader is never told about until they are incorporated. Even the romance happens off page and feels like it's just been grabbed willy-nilly.
The whole 'it must be a serial' feeling is exacerbate by the fact that the book's blub isn't accurate to the events of this book. I can see how some of that might come up in the next, but it doesn't here. The book ends before it gets to, "She must convince him to sever this forced bond so she can return to her first love. But breaking the link seems insurmountable when the TimeDust launches its own ominous agenda and the two boys prepare to duel to the death over her." Nope, that doesn't happen IN THIS BOOK. Looks like the author chose at least one less episode for this volume and one or more for the next...or just doesn't know where the ongoing story split for the 'books.'
The result of all this is a group of characters I didn't feel I knew well, a romance I wasn't invested in, a plot that feels fragile and anchor-less and a book with little beginning and no end.
I also had serious trouble believing that these were teens. They spoke, had skills and acted much older. Even worse were the flashbacks when the main character was supposed to be a child. It was nowhere near believable, even for a genius. Plus, she was just too smug to like and too perfect at everything.
The writing itself is fine. But as a BOOK, with all the elements a reader expects in a BOOK, it's kind of a barely pass.
Here's my issue with it. It feels VERY much like it was written as a serial. The chapters are episodic and there is a certain amount of repetition that suggests plot recaps. Plus, since it is (or feels like it is) a serial, it doesn't actually end. Reading this was very much like watching a television show that you follow, but only catch every other show. You know the plot, but bits are missing that you just have to roll with. Characters showed up with no history or explanation, simply inserted in the plot. Characters who had existed suddenly have hobbies or habits that the reader is never told about until they are incorporated. Even the romance happens off page and feels like it's just been grabbed willy-nilly.
The whole 'it must be a serial' feeling is exacerbate by the fact that the book's blub isn't accurate to the events of this book. I can see how some of that might come up in the next, but it doesn't here. The book ends before it gets to, "She must convince him to sever this forced bond so she can return to her first love. But breaking the link seems insurmountable when the TimeDust launches its own ominous agenda and the two boys prepare to duel to the death over her." Nope, that doesn't happen IN THIS BOOK. Looks like the author chose at least one less episode for this volume and one or more for the next...or just doesn't know where the ongoing story split for the 'books.'
The result of all this is a group of characters I didn't feel I knew well, a romance I wasn't invested in, a plot that feels fragile and anchor-less and a book with little beginning and no end.
I also had serious trouble believing that these were teens. They spoke, had skills and acted much older. Even worse were the flashbacks when the main character was supposed to be a child. It was nowhere near believable, even for a genius. Plus, she was just too smug to like and too perfect at everything.
The writing itself is fine. But as a BOOK, with all the elements a reader expects in a BOOK, it's kind of a barely pass.
August 13, 2015
I have to say reading the first few chapters, there was a lot of information and historical background linked with the action which I found quite hard to read because I couldn't really get into it due to the very full descriptions and because I'm not overtly into history I found it a little off putting a bit like I was reading a research paper at times. But saying that the story from the off was packed full of action, each chapter held a different adrenaline filled kind of action and I love reading things that just literally jump off the page at you and open up a whole world.
Lucienne is a pretty strong character, she is the first female Siren so immediately from such a young age she knew what she'd do with her life, which must have been quite hard growing up but it seems she's accepted it even if at times she hates it, she doesn't begrudge her duty. She's very determined to be the best of the best being a girl doesn't come into it in that sense, she has a lot of pressure on her shoulders to achieve amazing things and whilst she deals with it she struggles at times too, with dealing with the duty and balancing it against who she's becoming, throughout the story you as reader see her grow and become more at one with herself.
Vlad I thought was great, he was lighthearted he was funny he was full of ego which made him quite likeable really, the author got the balance between cocky and sweet perfect so much so that as a reader I fell in love with his nature. He was so light hearted most of the time until it came to defending Lucienne he was soo loyal to her and showed his true feelings through his defence.
Overall it's a fast paced, action packed fantasy adventure about a very strong female lead with a touch of romance thrown in to boot.
Lucienne is a pretty strong character, she is the first female Siren so immediately from such a young age she knew what she'd do with her life, which must have been quite hard growing up but it seems she's accepted it even if at times she hates it, she doesn't begrudge her duty. She's very determined to be the best of the best being a girl doesn't come into it in that sense, she has a lot of pressure on her shoulders to achieve amazing things and whilst she deals with it she struggles at times too, with dealing with the duty and balancing it against who she's becoming, throughout the story you as reader see her grow and become more at one with herself.
Vlad I thought was great, he was lighthearted he was funny he was full of ego which made him quite likeable really, the author got the balance between cocky and sweet perfect so much so that as a reader I fell in love with his nature. He was so light hearted most of the time until it came to defending Lucienne he was soo loyal to her and showed his true feelings through his defence.
Overall it's a fast paced, action packed fantasy adventure about a very strong female lead with a touch of romance thrown in to boot.
February 6, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the “Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club on Goodreads." I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Siren by Meg Xuemei is a book based around a race of individuals with a leader who they call the Siren. Prior to Lucienne, all sirens were male and the only way she can have the happiness she wants is to find two lost scrolls which will reveal the way to Eterne.
This is definitely a book full of action once you get through the first few informational chapters. I like that we got a basic background before the author jumped right into the story line.
I feel that Lucienne and Vladimir are too young to have heart stopping love for each other. Also, every time things seemed to be going good and Lucienne was getting out of a bad situation, they would say something to that effect and then a wrench would be thrown in the plans.
I had a hard time believing in the world the author was trying to build, mainly because it seemed like a lot of responsibility put on a young individual very early on in life which continued to grow along with her. I also had a hard time convincing myself to finish the book.
Overall, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy young adult books that seem to be written for a younger young adult reader and someone who is in search of action.
The Siren by Meg Xuemei is a book based around a race of individuals with a leader who they call the Siren. Prior to Lucienne, all sirens were male and the only way she can have the happiness she wants is to find two lost scrolls which will reveal the way to Eterne.
This is definitely a book full of action once you get through the first few informational chapters. I like that we got a basic background before the author jumped right into the story line.
I feel that Lucienne and Vladimir are too young to have heart stopping love for each other. Also, every time things seemed to be going good and Lucienne was getting out of a bad situation, they would say something to that effect and then a wrench would be thrown in the plans.
I had a hard time believing in the world the author was trying to build, mainly because it seemed like a lot of responsibility put on a young individual very early on in life which continued to grow along with her. I also had a hard time convincing myself to finish the book.
Overall, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy young adult books that seem to be written for a younger young adult reader and someone who is in search of action.
February 7, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a copy from the "Rachel E. Carter YA Book Club on Goodreads. First of all, I'd really like to thank my new pal, Meg Xuemei, for allowing me to read her amazing book!! (As Lincoln once said, "My best friend is a person who will give me a book I've never read."). And, since I enjoyed it as much as I did, that makes me even more grateful for this opportunity!
Lucienne Lam, last of the Sirens, is on a desperate search to find the TimeDust before her enemies get a hold of her! If she fails in this mission, not only will it give her enemies (including her brother, how screwed up is that??) the chance to kill her but she'll never have the chance to be with her betrothed, Vladimir, who is an insanely hot, fierce warrior of a Czech Prince. Seriously, I love these two together. They balance each other out and I love the way they bicker and still look out for each other. Really, I love all the characters. They're all incredibly well written.
The only problem is that someone else has already located the TimeDust and its power is binding him to Lucienne. She must convince him to help her sever this bond so that she can be with Vlad.
Honestly, I loved this book. It's the first I've ever read by this particular author but I'm already looking forward to more, especially the next book in the series!!!
Lucienne Lam, last of the Sirens, is on a desperate search to find the TimeDust before her enemies get a hold of her! If she fails in this mission, not only will it give her enemies (including her brother, how screwed up is that??) the chance to kill her but she'll never have the chance to be with her betrothed, Vladimir, who is an insanely hot, fierce warrior of a Czech Prince. Seriously, I love these two together. They balance each other out and I love the way they bicker and still look out for each other. Really, I love all the characters. They're all incredibly well written.
The only problem is that someone else has already located the TimeDust and its power is binding him to Lucienne. She must convince him to help her sever this bond so that she can be with Vlad.
Honestly, I loved this book. It's the first I've ever read by this particular author but I'm already looking forward to more, especially the next book in the series!!!
July 30, 2015
3 stars = liked it
Breakdown:
plot - 4 stars
characters - 2 stars
narration - 2 stars
editing - 5 stars
I liked the basic premise of the story. The first female Siren ever and she's completely badass! Unfortunately I found it difficult to relate to her, and even more importantly, I found it hard to sympathize with her. She controls her emotions tightly, which might contribute to the problem, but I think it's sad because she's the heroine. I did think her relationship with Vlad interesting, and wish there was more to it. In fact, that's one of the running background storylines, so hopefully we make some progress there.
Overall the relationships, like the story, are simply told to you. Everyone is just drawn to Lucianne and dedicate their lives to her. I didn't think there was enough included in the story to make this believable.
As the first book in the series, I understand this book needs to introduce a lot - heroes, villains, settings, backgrounds, etc, etc, but I'm just not completely sold. I would give #2 a read before final judgement though.
Breakdown:
plot - 4 stars
characters - 2 stars
narration - 2 stars
editing - 5 stars
I liked the basic premise of the story. The first female Siren ever and she's completely badass! Unfortunately I found it difficult to relate to her, and even more importantly, I found it hard to sympathize with her. She controls her emotions tightly, which might contribute to the problem, but I think it's sad because she's the heroine. I did think her relationship with Vlad interesting, and wish there was more to it. In fact, that's one of the running background storylines, so hopefully we make some progress there.
Overall the relationships, like the story, are simply told to you. Everyone is just drawn to Lucianne and dedicate their lives to her. I didn't think there was enough included in the story to make this believable.
As the first book in the series, I understand this book needs to introduce a lot - heroes, villains, settings, backgrounds, etc, etc, but I'm just not completely sold. I would give #2 a read before final judgement though.
November 14, 2014
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was originally interested in this book because of the cover. I know, you shouldn't judge a book by the cover - but look at it! It's awesome! The story was captivating from the start, creating a unique world, and full of many interesting characters.
There was a lot going on in this book, but a lot of it felt rushed and hard to keep up with. There were some characters that were a bit hard to understand as well.
Still, it was an interesting story and one that I enjoyed.
3/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/t...
I was originally interested in this book because of the cover. I know, you shouldn't judge a book by the cover - but look at it! It's awesome! The story was captivating from the start, creating a unique world, and full of many interesting characters.
There was a lot going on in this book, but a lot of it felt rushed and hard to keep up with. There were some characters that were a bit hard to understand as well.
Still, it was an interesting story and one that I enjoyed.
3/5 Platypires
http://www.platypire.com/j-hooligan/t...
December 31, 2015
this read was so full of action! it was a surpisingly good read, however, i had a really hard time focusing on what was going on and feel like i would have enjoyed it more had the format been clearer. i read this on my Kindle and the print was choppy and oddly spaces out making it hard to follow. i would love to re-read this without those distractions (through no fault of the author) i would have been able to absorb more of the story, and perhaps increase to a 4*. Format issue aside, this is worth the read!
August 13, 2015
1st - I received this book in return for my review 2nd - it was OK - the characters lacked some depth and I was waiting for them just to call the main character Laura Croft instead of Lucienne.... That being said - there was a ton of action and the love stories could have used some work to make you more involved in that triangle, but it is an OK book.... Not sad that I read it!
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