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Pazuzu's Girl
Morpho Wilson thought her life was difficult enough. Her father is Pazuzu, the Mesopotamian demon of plague and the Southwest wind. As a teenager, Morpho struggles against her father, while trying to adjust to high school in a new neighborhood. The family is constantly moving in an attempt to elude Pazuzu’s murderous ex-wife, a demoness known for killing children.
Then something interesting happens. A socially-impaired classmate becomes so intrigued by Morpho that he pursues her, despite the mystery surrounding her family and the danger that accompanies it.
But before their romance can grow, the demoness tracks Morpho down, and now only needs an ancient artifact called the Tablet of Destiny to complete the destruction of the world. The tablet confers on its owner the ability to control the fate of everything and everyone on earth.
Once the tablet is discovered in the Middle East, the oldest and most powerful gods begin a battle for its possession, with the human population caught in the middle. Morpho, her family, and her new friend must decide, do they escape from the horrifying demoness or fight for their own destiny? How far will Pazuzu go to save his daughter from a hellish fate? Will his banishment from Heaven so many millennia ago end up being a curse...or a blessing?
Then something interesting happens. A socially-impaired classmate becomes so intrigued by Morpho that he pursues her, despite the mystery surrounding her family and the danger that accompanies it.
But before their romance can grow, the demoness tracks Morpho down, and now only needs an ancient artifact called the Tablet of Destiny to complete the destruction of the world. The tablet confers on its owner the ability to control the fate of everything and everyone on earth.
Once the tablet is discovered in the Middle East, the oldest and most powerful gods begin a battle for its possession, with the human population caught in the middle. Morpho, her family, and her new friend must decide, do they escape from the horrifying demoness or fight for their own destiny? How far will Pazuzu go to save his daughter from a hellish fate? Will his banishment from Heaven so many millennia ago end up being a curse...or a blessing?
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2012
2 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Coles
13 books20 followersWriter, emergency preparedness coordinator, medical anthropologist, geek mom.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
December 29, 2011
Morpho Wilson thought her life was difficult enough. Her father is Pazuzu, the Mesopotamian demon of plague and the Southwest wind. As a teenager Morpho struggles against her father, while trying to adjust to high school in a new neighborhood. The family is constantly moving in an attempt to elude Pazuzu’s murderous ex-wife, a demoness known for killing children.
Then something unique happens. A socially-impaired classmate becomes so intrigued by Morpho that he pursues her, despite the mystery surrounding her family and the danger that accompanies it.
But before their romance can grow the demoness tracks Morpho down, and now only needs an ancient artifact called the Tablet of Destiny to complete the destruction of the world. The tablet confers on its owner the ability to control the fate of everything and everyone on earth.
Once the tablet is discovered in the Middle East, the oldest and most powerful gods begin a battle for its possession, with the human population caught in the middle. Morpho, her family, and her new friend must decide, do they escape from the horrifying demoness or fight for their own destiny. How far will Pazuzu go to save his daughter from a hellish fate? Will his banishment from Heaven so many millennia ago end up being a curse...or a blessing?
Then something unique happens. A socially-impaired classmate becomes so intrigued by Morpho that he pursues her, despite the mystery surrounding her family and the danger that accompanies it.
But before their romance can grow the demoness tracks Morpho down, and now only needs an ancient artifact called the Tablet of Destiny to complete the destruction of the world. The tablet confers on its owner the ability to control the fate of everything and everyone on earth.
Once the tablet is discovered in the Middle East, the oldest and most powerful gods begin a battle for its possession, with the human population caught in the middle. Morpho, her family, and her new friend must decide, do they escape from the horrifying demoness or fight for their own destiny. How far will Pazuzu go to save his daughter from a hellish fate? Will his banishment from Heaven so many millennia ago end up being a curse...or a blessing?
January 25, 2012
Pazuzu's Girl
By: Rachel Coles
ISBN: 9781936564361
Expected Publication: February 10, 2012 by JournalStone
Available format: Hardcover, paperback, ebook
My Rating: ★★★★★
I love working with JournalStone because I have been fortunate enough to get an early look at so many amazing novels. Pazuzu's Girl is definitely in those ranks! It has such an interesting, unique plot and is so well written. I continue to be impressed by the caliber of writers who are being discovered or re-discovered by this company.
One thing that always snags me is when the seemingly bad characters, Pazuzu in this case, turn out to really be the good guys. Pazuzu is almost like any other normal, single father, trying to raise his rebellious teenage daughter right. Sure, he can dissipate into a swarm of locusts, and he's been known to spread a plague or two. A guy has to make a living, right? Deep down, Pazuzu has real heart, and the author does such an amazing job developing his character, keeping in his scary side and melding it with his humanity. We all have a scary side; admit it.
Another great thing about this novel is Morpho's character. We get to see her grow and come into herself, much like the butterfly she is named after. We get to see her in the normal, angsty teenage life of an outcast. Our heartstrings are tugged as she finds love, and then we are crushed when her whole world comes apart around her. Morpho is able to find her strength, cling to her morality, and stand up to the evil that plagues her life and the world as a whole.
There are so many familiar yet revamped ideas included in this novel along with a lot of great, new aspects and characters. I love anything that has to do with gods and goddesses. Heck, you might even find a zombie or two in this one as well—or are those ghosts--or demons--or...?? Hmmm…guess you'll have to read to find out!
By: Rachel Coles
ISBN: 9781936564361
Expected Publication: February 10, 2012 by JournalStone
Available format: Hardcover, paperback, ebook
My Rating: ★★★★★
I love working with JournalStone because I have been fortunate enough to get an early look at so many amazing novels. Pazuzu's Girl is definitely in those ranks! It has such an interesting, unique plot and is so well written. I continue to be impressed by the caliber of writers who are being discovered or re-discovered by this company.
One thing that always snags me is when the seemingly bad characters, Pazuzu in this case, turn out to really be the good guys. Pazuzu is almost like any other normal, single father, trying to raise his rebellious teenage daughter right. Sure, he can dissipate into a swarm of locusts, and he's been known to spread a plague or two. A guy has to make a living, right? Deep down, Pazuzu has real heart, and the author does such an amazing job developing his character, keeping in his scary side and melding it with his humanity. We all have a scary side; admit it.
Another great thing about this novel is Morpho's character. We get to see her grow and come into herself, much like the butterfly she is named after. We get to see her in the normal, angsty teenage life of an outcast. Our heartstrings are tugged as she finds love, and then we are crushed when her whole world comes apart around her. Morpho is able to find her strength, cling to her morality, and stand up to the evil that plagues her life and the world as a whole.
There are so many familiar yet revamped ideas included in this novel along with a lot of great, new aspects and characters. I love anything that has to do with gods and goddesses. Heck, you might even find a zombie or two in this one as well—or are those ghosts--or demons--or...?? Hmmm…guess you'll have to read to find out!
May 3, 2012
Pazuzu’s Daughter by Rachel Coles
This paranormal urban fantasy has an original premise with well-developed characters based on an exciting mythology. I was so confident in the author’s storytelling ability I didn’t even rush to look up the background of her supernatural lexicon. I just knew it was going to measure up. And I wasn’t disappointed.
The character arcs are rich and believable, and come on, we’re talking about some pretty weird individuals here. The tone hovers between humor, pathos, glorious (underdog up against impossible odds) and poignancy. There’s a twist to the human condition when that condition happens to be more godly than human. Perfect. The heroes are unexpected, the bad guys are really bad and the story’s reach is beyond the usual YA. This is a cross-over book and is for anyone who loves to jump into the reinterpretation of traditional mythology or the shadows at the edge of ‘reality.’
The story arc was unexpected and not everyone has a happy ending, even better almost everyone had an ending they deserved. I want to see more of this world and these characters—please, bring ‘em back.
Publisher: Journal Stone
Published: February 10, 2012
ISBN: 978-1-936564-36-1
ISBN: 978-1-936564-37-8 (ebook)
This paranormal urban fantasy has an original premise with well-developed characters based on an exciting mythology. I was so confident in the author’s storytelling ability I didn’t even rush to look up the background of her supernatural lexicon. I just knew it was going to measure up. And I wasn’t disappointed.
The character arcs are rich and believable, and come on, we’re talking about some pretty weird individuals here. The tone hovers between humor, pathos, glorious (underdog up against impossible odds) and poignancy. There’s a twist to the human condition when that condition happens to be more godly than human. Perfect. The heroes are unexpected, the bad guys are really bad and the story’s reach is beyond the usual YA. This is a cross-over book and is for anyone who loves to jump into the reinterpretation of traditional mythology or the shadows at the edge of ‘reality.’
The story arc was unexpected and not everyone has a happy ending, even better almost everyone had an ending they deserved. I want to see more of this world and these characters—please, bring ‘em back.
Publisher: Journal Stone
Published: February 10, 2012
ISBN: 978-1-936564-36-1
ISBN: 978-1-936564-37-8 (ebook)
April 28, 2012
This is my kind of book! A host of characters, a fast paced story-line, and enough action to keep you on the edge of your seat. I liked the fact that we were given enough background into the characters to develop an understanding of them, but not so much that it detracted from the main plot. I loved the witty banter and Pazuzu's reactions to mundane things. I loved the fact that, for Pazuzu, being a demon didn't make raising a teenage daughter any easier. Morpho was a delight to read; vibrant, cocky yet plagued by the same insecurities that any average teenager may face. The story itself was a brilliantly woven set of threads.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
February 22, 2013
I really liked this book. I love stories that involve demons and coming of age battling evil and accepting your destiny. The thing that makes this book so interesting is all of the Sumerian lore and Mesopotamia myth that the author obviously spent a lot of time researching. I appreciate it when an author knows what they are writing about. Check it out. It's different from most of the titles targeted at readers these days, and that is good.
February 7, 2012
Teens go through a difficult time just existing or growing up but some more than others. Morpho Wilson was not your typical teen. Her demeanor and outer appearance are quite remarkable and would definitely stand out. Those looking at her with her blue hair and unique type of dress might think she fit right in with the other kids in her school. But, life was hard for her. Living with a father who was the Mesopotamian demon of Plague and known as the Southwest wind, did not make her life any easier. Her home invested with worms and other creatures deemed normal to them attracted others and might bring in the exterminators to eliminate what most would not want crawling down their backs or entire body. Never remaining in one place and hoping to elude her father, Pazuzu’s dangerous and ex-wife, poor Morpho remained on the edge at all times. School tended to present its own challenges as many tried to goad her into difficult situations and winding up in detention for spilling coffee on some that stuck a lollypop in her hair did not endear her to the Principal or anyone else. Imagine ad demoness known for killing children as your stepmother. As the situation with this young man who winds up in detention continues he decides to befriend and pursue her even though her family has an aura of danger around them. This socially- challenged young man does not really care.
As Pazuzu enters the meeting hall for the HOA meeting he addresses the dais and claims that he is in compliance with the way his lawn appears and shrubs look. But, what appears manicured to him looks withered, dead and definitely infested with pests to others insisting that he control the problem since most people would not want to be plagued with these cockroaches, bedbugs and other insects in their homes. But, Pazuzu is not really human and as he enters his home he envisions his deceased wife and things about his ex-wife who has taken many victims including Morpho’s mother, Etain. The anger that he emits is quite compelling and shakes up not only the real world but he dark world too. The sight you would behold might startle some but not others.
When Morpho returns after skateboarding with her new friend JD she realizes what happened when she enters the house and sees the Lugal sweeping up the glass and her father’s wrath. But, most parents tend to over react when they think their children are in danger or sometimes mixed up with the wrong young man. When Lugal tells Pazuzu about a phone call received from school and he is requested to attend a meeting with the Principal about Morpho’s changed and challenging behaviors his world will definitely not be the same. The author shares his background with the reader as we learn why he is on Earth, the quest that cost him much of his power and the one person who was the reason for losing the sacred Tablet. Master Enlil and Anzu, which is his real name, battle it out in a unique and icy fashion with the Tablet of Destiny as the coveted prize. Would you want to control the destiny of others? Would you use it for good or for evil? Holding the tablet he becomes distracted and does not see Ninurta, the plough god giving him chase until it is too late. What happens will definitely mystify the reader and keep you spellbound to the page to see what happens next? As Anzu comes back to the present he decides to deal with the poor object of Morpho’s transgressions like any out of control parent by using violence. What he sees when he gets there makes him rethink his actions for about a second as he realizes that JD is a victim of a different kind of abuse from his own father. JD and Anzu’s encounter is quite compelling as JD tries to explain in a respectful manner what really happened and Anzu, does not hear a word he says. Next the author reflects back to the one reason, his ex-wife and explains her powers and why he is so overprotective. You decide what you would do if someone so dangerous wanted to destroy all that really matters to you as she has done before.
When Pazuzu arrives at the school and enters the Principal’s office the connection comes through and he realizes just whom this Principal really is and now has to deal with him up close and in person. Added to that the author throws in some comic relief as this administrator has a definite touch of OCD and what Pazuzu does is really quite funny. A meeting that would give Pazuzu much pause for thought, as he does not reveal how or when he might have met this man before. Explaining the circumstances around his daughter’s danger without causing any suspicion to him or create an alarm that would cause the man to call protective services, as you hear the inner thoughts of the principal regarding school safety the that of Pazuzu too. But, procedures must be followed, as you will learn by the Principal’s actions following their meeting.
How far will a father go to protect his daughter and to what length will a young man go to protect a friend? When JD sees that Morpho is in danger what he does will endear him to the reader, open his eyes wide to the world of demons and the God Of Plague as Pazuzu is known in his world. And help the reader understand the true meaning of love, friendship, loyalty and protection at all costs. Just what happens to two young men that attack Morpho? What role does her stepmother, Lititu play? Why is she called the Shifter of Seven Faces? Some of the answers will be revealed others the reader will have to read and search for when you read this unique, creative and definitely original novel Pazuzu’z Girl. Watch out for the grasshoppers! Just how close was the demon’s mistress? Can you feel her presence? So, why does JD defend her father?
Then, she begins to understand as she hears the words of her mother, sees her image in the form of a butterfly and understands why she must be careful and trust no one as she explains what happened to her, where she is and why he first husband is a slave to Lititu. Can you see the moth’s silk wings and hear her voice? Why doesn’t Morpho heed her warning? Taking Morpho back to where it all began and what happened to her brother and much more. As the story flashes back you understand what Pazuzu really is and why he is called the demon of plagues and how Etain thought he could save her son whose problem stemmed from something he was doing to himself. As the moths lifted off and floated away she learned more than she ever expected.
The eyes of an intern seeing a black stone snake while on an archeological expedition will take his life and bring to light the Curse of Ereshkigal. The Principal of the school looking for the two boys that tormented Morpho as the news brings to light what happened in Bagdad to the archeologist will it all blend together as one? The Underworld: Would you want to be a part of it? Just how far will these archeologists dig? Then Etain appears on the Principal’s screen as the moths vanished from his computer and she entered him. Once upon a time Ninurta had the tablet that was to be returned to the Gods. Why was she there and what will happen next? As the Queen of the Underworld exhibits her wrath on the innocent and Anzu learns that the Tablet is gone and only small traces of its power remain to lure the demoness to them. Just how Lugal does this you will not get from me. We all promised to protect Morpho and besides who needs the wrath of her father! Then the truth rears its ugly head as Anzu learns something from Lugal that would change it all.
JD proves to really care about Morpho and when she transforms wait and see what he does to protect her. When Etain enlists the help of Ninurta to go to the underworld to meet with the Queen why does he agree and what will the next step be? Her goal is to destroy the world and everything in it and much more. Imagine a tablet that will allow the owner to control the fate of everything and everyone on Earth. What role will he play in helping his students, protecting Morpho and seeking vengeance for the dead?
From the Middle East to the battle grounds of the gods to the present where Morpho lives what happens will remind everyone what evil does to not just humans, how far will two men go to protect those they care about? What will happen to Morpho?
Lamashtu’s deadly grasped encompassed many. Throughout the Middle East she spread her reign of death and destruction. How would Morpho deal with her new form? Would she ever return to her human form? How would Anzu find Lugal and what happened to him when he finally returns home? As both worlds begin to blend and Morpho, Lugal, Anzu learn the truth behind the demoneess and Ninhab’s real goal, will anything ever become the way it was before and who or what will survive? What really happened to cost Pazuzu being a god and who was responsible?
As JD faces his new world, deals with the demons can Morpho, Anzu, and the rest finally finish off Lamashtu? Lamashtu is the demoness of plague and corruption can they beat her or will Morpho and her brother fall prey to her in the underworld? Just how far will a father go to protect his daughter and how will she go to protect others too?
One family fights for their survival. One young girl named Morpho learns the true meaning of love, loyalty and forgiveness. Who lives? What is their fate? What happens when the dust settles, the battles end and the death and destruction are finally over? An ending that you will never expect with surprises and twists so unique and creatively crafted that author Rachel Coles is definitely up there with the best in her genre. Graphically depicted scenes and characters although some not human have the same failings we do. Who lives? What finally happens? Pazuzu’a Girl: Read it to find out which portal each one enters?
This book gets: FIVE BUTTERFLIES!
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
As Pazuzu enters the meeting hall for the HOA meeting he addresses the dais and claims that he is in compliance with the way his lawn appears and shrubs look. But, what appears manicured to him looks withered, dead and definitely infested with pests to others insisting that he control the problem since most people would not want to be plagued with these cockroaches, bedbugs and other insects in their homes. But, Pazuzu is not really human and as he enters his home he envisions his deceased wife and things about his ex-wife who has taken many victims including Morpho’s mother, Etain. The anger that he emits is quite compelling and shakes up not only the real world but he dark world too. The sight you would behold might startle some but not others.
When Morpho returns after skateboarding with her new friend JD she realizes what happened when she enters the house and sees the Lugal sweeping up the glass and her father’s wrath. But, most parents tend to over react when they think their children are in danger or sometimes mixed up with the wrong young man. When Lugal tells Pazuzu about a phone call received from school and he is requested to attend a meeting with the Principal about Morpho’s changed and challenging behaviors his world will definitely not be the same. The author shares his background with the reader as we learn why he is on Earth, the quest that cost him much of his power and the one person who was the reason for losing the sacred Tablet. Master Enlil and Anzu, which is his real name, battle it out in a unique and icy fashion with the Tablet of Destiny as the coveted prize. Would you want to control the destiny of others? Would you use it for good or for evil? Holding the tablet he becomes distracted and does not see Ninurta, the plough god giving him chase until it is too late. What happens will definitely mystify the reader and keep you spellbound to the page to see what happens next? As Anzu comes back to the present he decides to deal with the poor object of Morpho’s transgressions like any out of control parent by using violence. What he sees when he gets there makes him rethink his actions for about a second as he realizes that JD is a victim of a different kind of abuse from his own father. JD and Anzu’s encounter is quite compelling as JD tries to explain in a respectful manner what really happened and Anzu, does not hear a word he says. Next the author reflects back to the one reason, his ex-wife and explains her powers and why he is so overprotective. You decide what you would do if someone so dangerous wanted to destroy all that really matters to you as she has done before.
When Pazuzu arrives at the school and enters the Principal’s office the connection comes through and he realizes just whom this Principal really is and now has to deal with him up close and in person. Added to that the author throws in some comic relief as this administrator has a definite touch of OCD and what Pazuzu does is really quite funny. A meeting that would give Pazuzu much pause for thought, as he does not reveal how or when he might have met this man before. Explaining the circumstances around his daughter’s danger without causing any suspicion to him or create an alarm that would cause the man to call protective services, as you hear the inner thoughts of the principal regarding school safety the that of Pazuzu too. But, procedures must be followed, as you will learn by the Principal’s actions following their meeting.
How far will a father go to protect his daughter and to what length will a young man go to protect a friend? When JD sees that Morpho is in danger what he does will endear him to the reader, open his eyes wide to the world of demons and the God Of Plague as Pazuzu is known in his world. And help the reader understand the true meaning of love, friendship, loyalty and protection at all costs. Just what happens to two young men that attack Morpho? What role does her stepmother, Lititu play? Why is she called the Shifter of Seven Faces? Some of the answers will be revealed others the reader will have to read and search for when you read this unique, creative and definitely original novel Pazuzu’z Girl. Watch out for the grasshoppers! Just how close was the demon’s mistress? Can you feel her presence? So, why does JD defend her father?
Then, she begins to understand as she hears the words of her mother, sees her image in the form of a butterfly and understands why she must be careful and trust no one as she explains what happened to her, where she is and why he first husband is a slave to Lititu. Can you see the moth’s silk wings and hear her voice? Why doesn’t Morpho heed her warning? Taking Morpho back to where it all began and what happened to her brother and much more. As the story flashes back you understand what Pazuzu really is and why he is called the demon of plagues and how Etain thought he could save her son whose problem stemmed from something he was doing to himself. As the moths lifted off and floated away she learned more than she ever expected.
The eyes of an intern seeing a black stone snake while on an archeological expedition will take his life and bring to light the Curse of Ereshkigal. The Principal of the school looking for the two boys that tormented Morpho as the news brings to light what happened in Bagdad to the archeologist will it all blend together as one? The Underworld: Would you want to be a part of it? Just how far will these archeologists dig? Then Etain appears on the Principal’s screen as the moths vanished from his computer and she entered him. Once upon a time Ninurta had the tablet that was to be returned to the Gods. Why was she there and what will happen next? As the Queen of the Underworld exhibits her wrath on the innocent and Anzu learns that the Tablet is gone and only small traces of its power remain to lure the demoness to them. Just how Lugal does this you will not get from me. We all promised to protect Morpho and besides who needs the wrath of her father! Then the truth rears its ugly head as Anzu learns something from Lugal that would change it all.
JD proves to really care about Morpho and when she transforms wait and see what he does to protect her. When Etain enlists the help of Ninurta to go to the underworld to meet with the Queen why does he agree and what will the next step be? Her goal is to destroy the world and everything in it and much more. Imagine a tablet that will allow the owner to control the fate of everything and everyone on Earth. What role will he play in helping his students, protecting Morpho and seeking vengeance for the dead?
From the Middle East to the battle grounds of the gods to the present where Morpho lives what happens will remind everyone what evil does to not just humans, how far will two men go to protect those they care about? What will happen to Morpho?
Lamashtu’s deadly grasped encompassed many. Throughout the Middle East she spread her reign of death and destruction. How would Morpho deal with her new form? Would she ever return to her human form? How would Anzu find Lugal and what happened to him when he finally returns home? As both worlds begin to blend and Morpho, Lugal, Anzu learn the truth behind the demoneess and Ninhab’s real goal, will anything ever become the way it was before and who or what will survive? What really happened to cost Pazuzu being a god and who was responsible?
As JD faces his new world, deals with the demons can Morpho, Anzu, and the rest finally finish off Lamashtu? Lamashtu is the demoness of plague and corruption can they beat her or will Morpho and her brother fall prey to her in the underworld? Just how far will a father go to protect his daughter and how will she go to protect others too?
One family fights for their survival. One young girl named Morpho learns the true meaning of love, loyalty and forgiveness. Who lives? What is their fate? What happens when the dust settles, the battles end and the death and destruction are finally over? An ending that you will never expect with surprises and twists so unique and creatively crafted that author Rachel Coles is definitely up there with the best in her genre. Graphically depicted scenes and characters although some not human have the same failings we do. Who lives? What finally happens? Pazuzu’a Girl: Read it to find out which portal each one enters?
This book gets: FIVE BUTTERFLIES!
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
March 24, 2019
WOOF. What a...what a mess. This had an amazing premise. Sumerian mythology! A sprinkling of Irish mythology! Takes place in Denver! Yeah. That’s about all it had going for it because ooof. What a disaster.
It is in DESPERATE need of an editor. About halfway through, all the plot lines starting splintering and it just made for horrendous reading. The subplots of JD and the principal could have been axed. The back and forth between current day and the origin stories were badly transitioned and felt really stilted. I’d conservatively estimate that roughly 25% of the story could have been cut and it would have made for a much tighter narrative.
As far as the characters are concerned, the only decent one who I cared about was Lugal. All the others were not fleshed out and were nothing more than caricatures. Morpho was annoying. There. I said it. And don’t get me started on the characterization of the big baddie
I’m also left scratching my head over this being classified as young adult. With the language, drug use, violence, and sexual content, I wouldn’t want any young adult I know to read this. Sure, they see worse than this on a daily basis but even there, I wouldn’t classify this as YA.
Don’t waste your time. I’m wishing I hadn’t.
It is in DESPERATE need of an editor. About halfway through, all the plot lines starting splintering and it just made for horrendous reading. The subplots of JD and the principal could have been axed. The back and forth between current day and the origin stories were badly transitioned and felt really stilted. I’d conservatively estimate that roughly 25% of the story could have been cut and it would have made for a much tighter narrative.
As far as the characters are concerned, the only decent one who I cared about was Lugal. All the others were not fleshed out and were nothing more than caricatures. Morpho was annoying. There. I said it. And don’t get me started on the characterization of the big baddie
I’m also left scratching my head over this being classified as young adult. With the language, drug use, violence, and sexual content, I wouldn’t want any young adult I know to read this. Sure, they see worse than this on a daily basis but even there, I wouldn’t classify this as YA.
Don’t waste your time. I’m wishing I hadn’t.
April 21, 2012
3.5/5 stars
Mesopotamian mythology. Why the last time I read a book inspired by that, (before Pazuzu’s Girl, of course) was…well, never. So when I was offered the opportunity to read and review this book, I jumped at the chance. Mythology has always interested me. It’s simultaneously enchanting and horrifying, beautiful yet unapologetically cruel; the gods being immortal, incredibly powerful, interested in the adoration of man, yet apathetic to mankind’s individual fates. They’re typically petty, vindictive, selfish, fallible, power hungry, and yet sometimes they can be surprisingly benevolent. It’s the unpredictability of the gods, the romance, the tragedy, and mankind’s continual attempts to defy fate that keep me coming back to mythology time and time again.
Pazuzu’s Girl had all of this in spades, and while I have certain reservations about the book and the story as a whole, it was a pretty original story. The way Coles wove the mythology through this book was fascinating, the ancient meeting the modern. Her characters and descriptions are as dichotomous as the gods themselves – poetic and alluring, horrific and ghastly. At times her word choices and descriptions do stretch above the vocabulary range of the average teenager – and perhaps, me – but cracking a dictionary has never hurt anyone, I suppose.
One main point I appreciated in Pazuzu’s Girl is the sheer scale on which the story happens. Though the story largely focuses on a small group of people in the Denver area, Coles makes sure the reader knows the devastation and atrocities are also being committed on a global scale, making it extremely clear that the fate of the world is, in fact, at stake. It gives the book a necessary level of gravity, that a story such as this one most certainly needs. Coles does an excellent job of making the world go to hell in a hand basket, and because of her scientific background, it’s all very convincing and a little frightening. In fact, after reading this, I think I need to go buy a Hazmat suit, purchase stock in Purell, and steer clear of all jealously enraged Sumerian goddesses.
When I started Pazuzu’s Girl, I have to admit that I expected the novel to be Morpho’s story – the blue haired girl on the cover and one of the aforementioned “Pazuzu’s Girls.” Not so. Well, not really. Pazuzu’s once ambitious, god-like pursuits have diminished down into one all-encompassing goal: to keep his beloved daughter safe from his crazy, murderous shrew of an ex-wife… who also happens to be a demoness of pestilence and has a taste for killing pregnant mothers and their children. So, in that sense, the book is about Morpho – the never-ending attempts to keep her safe. It’s about her, but it’s not really her story. Morpho definitely felt more like a secondary character. Though she does get chances at narration, they are somewhat infrequent. She’s more the object of the book instead of it’s subject, and quickly became a one-dimensional, rebellious teenager that showed little to no maturation over the course of the novel.
The story is more accurately Pazuzu’s story, which I guess shouldn’t surprise me since he is the titular character. The book is mainly narrated by him, two other adult males, and Morpho’s boyfriend; it’s a rather male-dominated book overall. Though I found this to be rather interesting as Pazuzu’s Girl defies the normally accepted parameters of what makes a YA book a YA book, the adult narrators outnumbering the teenagers in addition to some rather mature scenes and references, caused me to place this book firmly in the ADULT category.
Despite this, I find Pazuzu to be fascinating. Mesopotamian gods, or fallen gods, definitely have a different moral code than a 21st century, western Judeo-Christian society, and this is one of the things I had to keep reminding myself of while I read. Pazuzu is a loving father (though he may not entirely be sure how to connect with his teenage daughter), loves his deceased wife with a consuming passion, his intentions with the Tablet of Destiny were originally noble, but he’s also responsible for countless deaths and plagues which he sometimes inflicts upon humanity on a whim. We get multiple flashbacks of Pazuzu’s history over the millennia, and it’s interesting to see how his priorities and principles evolve as he lives among humanity in his exile from Heaven.
Ninhab is a character I did not see coming, and I’m not going to reveal too much more about him than to say that he was probably my favorite character. He’s also Morpho’s high school principal. Yeah. You’ll just have to read the book to figure out how he fits in.
JD. Originally, I wasn’t so sure about him. A druggie high school waste-of-space? Being a mom myself, I have to admit that I was somewhat on Pazuzu’s side when JD is first introduced. However, JD shows himself to be sweet, so earnest, innovative, dependable, and, when it counts, he’s got your back. By the end of this novel, I really came to enjoy his character.
Overall, though I believe this book has been misclassified as YA, and though I wish Morpho had been a stronger character, I think Coles’ Pazuzu’s Girl is a compellingly original concept that has been approached in a very unique way.
Mesopotamian mythology. Why the last time I read a book inspired by that, (before Pazuzu’s Girl, of course) was…well, never. So when I was offered the opportunity to read and review this book, I jumped at the chance. Mythology has always interested me. It’s simultaneously enchanting and horrifying, beautiful yet unapologetically cruel; the gods being immortal, incredibly powerful, interested in the adoration of man, yet apathetic to mankind’s individual fates. They’re typically petty, vindictive, selfish, fallible, power hungry, and yet sometimes they can be surprisingly benevolent. It’s the unpredictability of the gods, the romance, the tragedy, and mankind’s continual attempts to defy fate that keep me coming back to mythology time and time again.
Pazuzu’s Girl had all of this in spades, and while I have certain reservations about the book and the story as a whole, it was a pretty original story. The way Coles wove the mythology through this book was fascinating, the ancient meeting the modern. Her characters and descriptions are as dichotomous as the gods themselves – poetic and alluring, horrific and ghastly. At times her word choices and descriptions do stretch above the vocabulary range of the average teenager – and perhaps, me – but cracking a dictionary has never hurt anyone, I suppose.
One main point I appreciated in Pazuzu’s Girl is the sheer scale on which the story happens. Though the story largely focuses on a small group of people in the Denver area, Coles makes sure the reader knows the devastation and atrocities are also being committed on a global scale, making it extremely clear that the fate of the world is, in fact, at stake. It gives the book a necessary level of gravity, that a story such as this one most certainly needs. Coles does an excellent job of making the world go to hell in a hand basket, and because of her scientific background, it’s all very convincing and a little frightening. In fact, after reading this, I think I need to go buy a Hazmat suit, purchase stock in Purell, and steer clear of all jealously enraged Sumerian goddesses.
When I started Pazuzu’s Girl, I have to admit that I expected the novel to be Morpho’s story – the blue haired girl on the cover and one of the aforementioned “Pazuzu’s Girls.” Not so. Well, not really. Pazuzu’s once ambitious, god-like pursuits have diminished down into one all-encompassing goal: to keep his beloved daughter safe from his crazy, murderous shrew of an ex-wife… who also happens to be a demoness of pestilence and has a taste for killing pregnant mothers and their children. So, in that sense, the book is about Morpho – the never-ending attempts to keep her safe. It’s about her, but it’s not really her story. Morpho definitely felt more like a secondary character. Though she does get chances at narration, they are somewhat infrequent. She’s more the object of the book instead of it’s subject, and quickly became a one-dimensional, rebellious teenager that showed little to no maturation over the course of the novel.
The story is more accurately Pazuzu’s story, which I guess shouldn’t surprise me since he is the titular character. The book is mainly narrated by him, two other adult males, and Morpho’s boyfriend; it’s a rather male-dominated book overall. Though I found this to be rather interesting as Pazuzu’s Girl defies the normally accepted parameters of what makes a YA book a YA book, the adult narrators outnumbering the teenagers in addition to some rather mature scenes and references, caused me to place this book firmly in the ADULT category.
Despite this, I find Pazuzu to be fascinating. Mesopotamian gods, or fallen gods, definitely have a different moral code than a 21st century, western Judeo-Christian society, and this is one of the things I had to keep reminding myself of while I read. Pazuzu is a loving father (though he may not entirely be sure how to connect with his teenage daughter), loves his deceased wife with a consuming passion, his intentions with the Tablet of Destiny were originally noble, but he’s also responsible for countless deaths and plagues which he sometimes inflicts upon humanity on a whim. We get multiple flashbacks of Pazuzu’s history over the millennia, and it’s interesting to see how his priorities and principles evolve as he lives among humanity in his exile from Heaven.
Ninhab is a character I did not see coming, and I’m not going to reveal too much more about him than to say that he was probably my favorite character. He’s also Morpho’s high school principal. Yeah. You’ll just have to read the book to figure out how he fits in.
JD. Originally, I wasn’t so sure about him. A druggie high school waste-of-space? Being a mom myself, I have to admit that I was somewhat on Pazuzu’s side when JD is first introduced. However, JD shows himself to be sweet, so earnest, innovative, dependable, and, when it counts, he’s got your back. By the end of this novel, I really came to enjoy his character.
Overall, though I believe this book has been misclassified as YA, and though I wish Morpho had been a stronger character, I think Coles’ Pazuzu’s Girl is a compellingly original concept that has been approached in a very unique way.
May 1, 2012
I will say this should be more of a 3.5 for personal thoughts on reading the story and a 4.5 for the flow of writing and the amount of research about the Gods that would have had to go into this book.
The Story
Pazuzu is a Mesopotamian God and at one point he made an error in judgement and got kicked out of their Heaven. Then he ended up hooking up with a psycho Goddess...he then got away from her and married another woman with whom he had a daughter, Morpho. Morpho is now a teenager and her mother is dead because of the psycho ex. Now this psycho ex is trying to find and kill Morpho, while Pazuzu is trying to keep her safe and raise an angsty teenager. These things don't always work out the way they should. There are multitudes of Gods and ghosts and there is even an elf.
Likes and Dislikes
--These are combined because they go hand in hand.
--I liked that Pazuzu had the same problems raising a teenager that most parents would have. However, some of his more funny comments just didn't seem to make sense for me. If he has been in the mortal world raising a kid for 16/17 years (I didn't exactly catch the actual age of the character, just in high school), then I would think that he would know about different technologies and the like.
--I liked that Morpho had a love interest in JD, however that moved so freaking fast that it was not even funny. One day they hang out, then he doesn't talk to her the next day, then a couple days later helps rescue her from stupid ass dudes, then the next day they are in love and can't live without each other???
--Liked that JD knew so much about Pazuzu and it was because of Dungeons and Dragons...hahaha.
--I did end up liking most of the characters by the end, but not to the point that I cared about the story a whole lot while reading it. It seemed like too much switching and a bit too much, but that's just me.
Conclusion
I think this book is going to be more up to the reader. The research was good, the writing was good, personally I couldn't get into it as much as I would have liked.
free copy provided for an honest review via Shut Up & Read group.
The Story
Pazuzu is a Mesopotamian God and at one point he made an error in judgement and got kicked out of their Heaven. Then he ended up hooking up with a psycho Goddess...he then got away from her and married another woman with whom he had a daughter, Morpho. Morpho is now a teenager and her mother is dead because of the psycho ex. Now this psycho ex is trying to find and kill Morpho, while Pazuzu is trying to keep her safe and raise an angsty teenager. These things don't always work out the way they should. There are multitudes of Gods and ghosts and there is even an elf.
Likes and Dislikes
--These are combined because they go hand in hand.
--I liked that Pazuzu had the same problems raising a teenager that most parents would have. However, some of his more funny comments just didn't seem to make sense for me. If he has been in the mortal world raising a kid for 16/17 years (I didn't exactly catch the actual age of the character, just in high school), then I would think that he would know about different technologies and the like.
--I liked that Morpho had a love interest in JD, however that moved so freaking fast that it was not even funny. One day they hang out, then he doesn't talk to her the next day, then a couple days later helps rescue her from stupid ass dudes, then the next day they are in love and can't live without each other???
--Liked that JD knew so much about Pazuzu and it was because of Dungeons and Dragons...hahaha.
--I did end up liking most of the characters by the end, but not to the point that I cared about the story a whole lot while reading it. It seemed like too much switching and a bit too much, but that's just me.
Conclusion
I think this book is going to be more up to the reader. The research was good, the writing was good, personally I couldn't get into it as much as I would have liked.
free copy provided for an honest review via Shut Up & Read group.
March 12, 2012
Disclosure: I received a free e-book copy from JournalStone via LibraryThing’s Early Reviewer’s giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis from NetGalley: Morpho Wilson thought her life was difficult enough. Her father is Pazuzu, the Mesopotamian demon of plague and the Southwest wind. As a teenager Morpho struggles against her father, while trying to adjust to high school in a new neighborhood. The family is constantly moving in an attempt to elude Pazuzu’s murderous ex-wife, a demoness known for killing children.
Then something unique happens. A socially-impaired classmate becomes so intrigued by Morpho that he pursues her, despite the mystery surrounding her family and the danger that accompanies it.
But before their romance can grow the demoness tracks Morpho down, and now only needs an ancient artifact called the Tablet of Destiny to complete the destruction of the world. The tablet confers on its owner the ability to control the fate of everything and everyone on earth.
Once the tablet is discovered in the Middle East, the oldest and most powerful gods begin a battle for its possession, with the human population caught in the middle. Morpho, her family, and her new friend must decide, do they escape from the horrifying demoness or fight for their own destiny. How far will Pazuzu go to save his daughter from a hellish fate? Will his banishment from Heaven so many millennia ago end up being a curse...or a blessing?
My Thoughts: I’ve been interested in Sumerian mythology for some time now, so as soon as I heard about this book, I wanted to read it. I was not disappointed. It was obvious that the author spent some time researching the myths, legends and stories of Mesopotamia, and then wove them into this wonderful story. The characters are fascinating, the story paced wonderfully, and it is highly engaging and readable. Highly recommended, especially to those who enjoy stories woven among the ancient legends.
Synopsis from NetGalley: Morpho Wilson thought her life was difficult enough. Her father is Pazuzu, the Mesopotamian demon of plague and the Southwest wind. As a teenager Morpho struggles against her father, while trying to adjust to high school in a new neighborhood. The family is constantly moving in an attempt to elude Pazuzu’s murderous ex-wife, a demoness known for killing children.
Then something unique happens. A socially-impaired classmate becomes so intrigued by Morpho that he pursues her, despite the mystery surrounding her family and the danger that accompanies it.
But before their romance can grow the demoness tracks Morpho down, and now only needs an ancient artifact called the Tablet of Destiny to complete the destruction of the world. The tablet confers on its owner the ability to control the fate of everything and everyone on earth.
Once the tablet is discovered in the Middle East, the oldest and most powerful gods begin a battle for its possession, with the human population caught in the middle. Morpho, her family, and her new friend must decide, do they escape from the horrifying demoness or fight for their own destiny. How far will Pazuzu go to save his daughter from a hellish fate? Will his banishment from Heaven so many millennia ago end up being a curse...or a blessing?
My Thoughts: I’ve been interested in Sumerian mythology for some time now, so as soon as I heard about this book, I wanted to read it. I was not disappointed. It was obvious that the author spent some time researching the myths, legends and stories of Mesopotamia, and then wove them into this wonderful story. The characters are fascinating, the story paced wonderfully, and it is highly engaging and readable. Highly recommended, especially to those who enjoy stories woven among the ancient legends.
May 9, 2012
I am really unsure about how to rate this book. I liked it, for the most part. I liked the mythology, but since these were gods I know nothing about, I really wish more of the tales, relationships and powers had been explained. I got pretty confused in parts, and I am twice the age of the intended audience. That said, perhaps teens will know more than I because apparently these characters appear in D&D.
I also feel like the author was totally approving of JD's illegal actions, namely doing drugs and drinking. Never does it come back to haunt him. In fact, thinking about smoking weed helps him at one point. I do not like that a book marketed at young adults supports and even praises this behavior.
Finally, while the writing was strong and I empathized with the characters, I thought the ending was a cop-out. Not the battle, and obviously not the fact that Pazuzu sacrifices himself, but the fact that EVERYONE is willing to sacrifice themselves except the one person who should, JD. He lets more than one person give up their life in return for his. What makes him so special? Yes, he is young and has acted incredibly bravely, but I would argue Morpho needs a parental figure and guardian more than she needs this boy that she's only paid attention to for a few days. I kept expecting JD to accept his fate and give Morpho her family back (Pazuzu or Lugal). but he never says a word. That was frustrating.
I also feel like the author was totally approving of JD's illegal actions, namely doing drugs and drinking. Never does it come back to haunt him. In fact, thinking about smoking weed helps him at one point. I do not like that a book marketed at young adults supports and even praises this behavior.
Finally, while the writing was strong and I empathized with the characters, I thought the ending was a cop-out. Not the battle, and obviously not the fact that Pazuzu sacrifices himself, but the fact that EVERYONE is willing to sacrifice themselves except the one person who should, JD. He lets more than one person give up their life in return for his. What makes him so special? Yes, he is young and has acted incredibly bravely, but I would argue Morpho needs a parental figure and guardian more than she needs this boy that she's only paid attention to for a few days. I kept expecting JD to accept his fate and give Morpho her family back (Pazuzu or Lugal). but he never says a word. That was frustrating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2012
I have read several books from Journal Stone and they have rarely disappointed. Pazuzu's Girl is no exception. It is a fun, fast ride that will keep your attention from the first page to the last. The use of ancient gods is not new in fantasy but I loved the use of far eastern gods which are certainly less well known, at least by me.
The book is aimed at young readers but , due to some references to drugs, it might not be suitable for the under-sixteen crowd. However, as an adult, I enjoyed it immensely. I liked that Pazuzu loved his daughter unconditionally even when she was at her most rebellious, I liked that his servant/warrior/friend did as well, in fact, I liked how much the adult characters were willing to sacrifice for this one teenage girl.
The one problem I did have with the story was the lack of strong, good female characters. Most of the female characters were either down-right evil and liked it that way, or they were selfish , indifferent , or cunning. The few good female characters played fairly minor roles in the book. Even Morpho seemed to be there more to move the action along rather than to play an active role in her own story.
Still, that aside, this book is a lot of fun and, if you enjoy a good urban fantasy, you should really give this one a try - it's definitely worth the read.
The book is aimed at young readers but , due to some references to drugs, it might not be suitable for the under-sixteen crowd. However, as an adult, I enjoyed it immensely. I liked that Pazuzu loved his daughter unconditionally even when she was at her most rebellious, I liked that his servant/warrior/friend did as well, in fact, I liked how much the adult characters were willing to sacrifice for this one teenage girl.
The one problem I did have with the story was the lack of strong, good female characters. Most of the female characters were either down-right evil and liked it that way, or they were selfish , indifferent , or cunning. The few good female characters played fairly minor roles in the book. Even Morpho seemed to be there more to move the action along rather than to play an active role in her own story.
Still, that aside, this book is a lot of fun and, if you enjoy a good urban fantasy, you should really give this one a try - it's definitely worth the read.
June 4, 2012
This is one of the more interesting books that I have read in quite awhile. The idea is new and original, and the writing is superb.
Morpho was struggling just to be a normal teenager even though her father is the Mesopotamian demon of plague. When the entire heavens come to earth to fight a battle over her, she and a group of her friends must do their best to survive and turn the battle back into the favor of humans.
The ending of this book is superb with enough twists and firepower to satisfy most people. If I had one complaint about the book, it would be that the author tends to switch back and forth between the cheesy and funny (Munchie Mist) and the sobering (small children dying). The corny parts are very funny, and the serious parts are heart-rending. Separately, they each work well. Unfortunately, they don't meld together very well. Sometimes, you get confused trying to figure out of the book is a comedy or a tear-jerker.
Overall though, it was a very good book, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it.
I received this book in a Goodreads Firstreads Giveaway.
Morpho was struggling just to be a normal teenager even though her father is the Mesopotamian demon of plague. When the entire heavens come to earth to fight a battle over her, she and a group of her friends must do their best to survive and turn the battle back into the favor of humans.
The ending of this book is superb with enough twists and firepower to satisfy most people. If I had one complaint about the book, it would be that the author tends to switch back and forth between the cheesy and funny (Munchie Mist) and the sobering (small children dying). The corny parts are very funny, and the serious parts are heart-rending. Separately, they each work well. Unfortunately, they don't meld together very well. Sometimes, you get confused trying to figure out of the book is a comedy or a tear-jerker.
Overall though, it was a very good book, and I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it.
I received this book in a Goodreads Firstreads Giveaway.
February 10, 2012
From reading the preview of PAZUZU'S GIRL, I thought that it would be a young adult book. And it is in a way. We get to meet Morpho and her boyfriend JD. They however don't experience the usual teenage issues. Instead they have to save the world from her father's nasty ex-wife.
Morpho and JD however don't appear to be the primary characters in this book. That spot actually goes to Morpho's father Pazuzu. The reader gets to meet him in both the present time and in the past thru flashbacks. We get to see just how much he has grown as a man...err demon. It is really touching just how much love has changed him.
I didn't get what I was expecting from this book but I did get so much more. I do recommend it to readers of the paranormal of all ages.
***I recieved this book from Library Thing in exchange for a review.
Morpho and JD however don't appear to be the primary characters in this book. That spot actually goes to Morpho's father Pazuzu. The reader gets to meet him in both the present time and in the past thru flashbacks. We get to see just how much he has grown as a man...err demon. It is really touching just how much love has changed him.
I didn't get what I was expecting from this book but I did get so much more. I do recommend it to readers of the paranormal of all ages.
***I recieved this book from Library Thing in exchange for a review.
May 2, 2012
This is my first time to review a book. I really enjoyed reading this book. Morpho has teenage problems.....they aren't exactly typical though. She has to deal with a father that is protective but has the ability to change shapes. Her boyfriend is into drugs and inventing things. The whole book centers on keeping Morpho safe and defeating her father's ex-wife. I wouldn't say this book would be suitable for younger kids because of the drugs. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more by this author.
February 9, 2012
I've been a fan for awhile for books that combine myths and gods with the modern world. This book is another interesting example of that type. The best part is that the gods involved are not the ubiquitous Greek gods that everybody knows. The teenage main characters were very engaging and I would love to read more about them.
May 3, 2012
I thought this book was amazing and a I thought it was a cool idea that the author used a different set of beliefs instead of Christianity. I also loved the story line. When I read the blurb, I was under the impression that it would be in Morpho's perspective most of the time (and I wanted that so much!) but it wasn't... And I was kinda depressed about that :(
February 21, 2012
This was an ARC; review TK.
September 6, 2012
I loved this book! It wasn't the normal paranormal god vs. mortal story. Very well written, kept me turning pages.
June 20, 2012
Review:
I will not label this book YA (young adult) fantasy, because of the amount of adult content it contains (drugs, mature language, etc...), but that doesn't mean that teens (17 and up) won't enjoy the fast-paced and well-researched story-line of Pazuzu's Girl. I found the book to be entertainingly original, with a well-developed plot-line and believable characters. I liked the contrasts between Pazuzu and Lugal (the Gods), and the more humanly "flawed" individuals throughout the text; they added a needed layer of background/depth to the story. I connected with the characters on some levels, but I wish I could have empathized more; the scenarios ranged from shockingly serious to ludicrously laughable, however, I felt that there was something missing - the character-to-reader connection so many readers crave. I didn't react the way I thought I would towards the ending for that reason, (no spoilers). I still enjoyed the characters, especially Lugal, Morpho, and Pazuzu, but there was something lacking in their emotional presentation. Another aspect that irked me was the "romance" between Morpho and JD, it was rushed, unrealistic, boring, and unnecessary. What made me overlook most of this was the witty dialogue and the beautifully crafted story-line centering on Mesopotamian mythology in the 21st century. I loved seeing familiar names from my world mythology class woven throughout the book! Overall, I enjoyed Pazuzu's Girl and the punch of personality it brought to the mythology/fantasy genre! I look forward to future books by this author, (maybe a prequel?).
Rating: Bounty's Out (3.5/5)
*** I received this book from the author (LibraryThing Early Reviewers) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
I will not label this book YA (young adult) fantasy, because of the amount of adult content it contains (drugs, mature language, etc...), but that doesn't mean that teens (17 and up) won't enjoy the fast-paced and well-researched story-line of Pazuzu's Girl. I found the book to be entertainingly original, with a well-developed plot-line and believable characters. I liked the contrasts between Pazuzu and Lugal (the Gods), and the more humanly "flawed" individuals throughout the text; they added a needed layer of background/depth to the story. I connected with the characters on some levels, but I wish I could have empathized more; the scenarios ranged from shockingly serious to ludicrously laughable, however, I felt that there was something missing - the character-to-reader connection so many readers crave. I didn't react the way I thought I would towards the ending for that reason, (no spoilers). I still enjoyed the characters, especially Lugal, Morpho, and Pazuzu, but there was something lacking in their emotional presentation. Another aspect that irked me was the "romance" between Morpho and JD, it was rushed, unrealistic, boring, and unnecessary. What made me overlook most of this was the witty dialogue and the beautifully crafted story-line centering on Mesopotamian mythology in the 21st century. I loved seeing familiar names from my world mythology class woven throughout the book! Overall, I enjoyed Pazuzu's Girl and the punch of personality it brought to the mythology/fantasy genre! I look forward to future books by this author, (maybe a prequel?).
Rating: Bounty's Out (3.5/5)
*** I received this book from the author (LibraryThing Early Reviewers) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
February 25, 2014
Pazuzu is a Mesopotamian god that manages to get himself kicked out of Heaven. Then he hooks up with a psycho goddess. He manages to escape her and finds another woman and has Morpho. The problem is psycho is intent on finding Pazuzu and destroying him. Because of that, Pazuzu and Morpho move a lot trying to stay hidden.
Morpho is in another high school trying to keep to herself but JD, has taken a fascination with her. If that wasn’t bad enough, psycho has found Pazuzu and is now looking for the Tablet of Destiny to destroy the whole world.
I have to say a Mesopotamian story is a fresh change from the usual Greek gods. I really like how the gods are so powerful and such but act just like typical humans. I commend Pazuzu for raising Morpho. It’s funny watching a god struggle with the regular headache of raising a teenager.
About the only thing that I was not impressed with was the instalove between Morpho and JD. It feels half hearted and rushed. I think it could have been lighter with just the starts of romance.
Anyway, this was a really good book, a great change of pace from the usual. I recommend this for those that like more adult young adult books and mythology with a fresh face.
I received this book for free from the Early Reader Program on Library Thing.
Morpho is in another high school trying to keep to herself but JD, has taken a fascination with her. If that wasn’t bad enough, psycho has found Pazuzu and is now looking for the Tablet of Destiny to destroy the whole world.
I have to say a Mesopotamian story is a fresh change from the usual Greek gods. I really like how the gods are so powerful and such but act just like typical humans. I commend Pazuzu for raising Morpho. It’s funny watching a god struggle with the regular headache of raising a teenager.
About the only thing that I was not impressed with was the instalove between Morpho and JD. It feels half hearted and rushed. I think it could have been lighter with just the starts of romance.
Anyway, this was a really good book, a great change of pace from the usual. I recommend this for those that like more adult young adult books and mythology with a fresh face.
I received this book for free from the Early Reader Program on Library Thing.
May 7, 2012
First I want to say thank you to the author for allowing me to read this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Second, I am not too sure what I think about this book. I didn't mind the story line. The title of the book says "Pazuzu's Girl" but the story seems to be more about the gods, pazuzu himself, and then his girl.
I found this novel to be more of a "Storybook". It told a wonderful yet intricate story story of Pazuzu, and Lugal. Their rise and fall, their mortality and immortality, their heartbreak over their children and the love they continue to have for their children.
The author weaves a story with the many gods. It irritates me so much when gods don't help. And I felt that irritation in the book. Your demoness is destroying people, do something! One of the few gods who did help was,ironically, the god of plague -Pazuzu.
I didn't like how,when Lugal gets arrested, the characters start talking about Muslims and terrorist and all that crap. I don't think that kind of thing needs to be in a book. I understand why but still.
Overall It was an okay book. I know this book has been rated 18-22 yrs. but I think if I had a more mature teen or even 16,17 yr old, I would let them read this.
Second, I am not too sure what I think about this book. I didn't mind the story line. The title of the book says "Pazuzu's Girl" but the story seems to be more about the gods, pazuzu himself, and then his girl.
I found this novel to be more of a "Storybook". It told a wonderful yet intricate story story of Pazuzu, and Lugal. Their rise and fall, their mortality and immortality, their heartbreak over their children and the love they continue to have for their children.
The author weaves a story with the many gods. It irritates me so much when gods don't help. And I felt that irritation in the book. Your demoness is destroying people, do something! One of the few gods who did help was,ironically, the god of plague -Pazuzu.
I didn't like how,when Lugal gets arrested, the characters start talking about Muslims and terrorist and all that crap. I don't think that kind of thing needs to be in a book. I understand why but still.
Overall It was an okay book. I know this book has been rated 18-22 yrs. but I think if I had a more mature teen or even 16,17 yr old, I would let them read this.
March 12, 2012
The god, Anzu is in deep trouble after stealing something that judges the fate of just about everything. In return he is judged by his fellow gods. Now, he is Pazuzu, demon of the Plague and Winds. Down and depressed, he falls under the seduction of an evil demoness and weds her. A decision he soon regrets. Not long after, the demoness becomes his ex and he marries someone he actually loves and has a beautiful child with. Shortly after, his pyschopathic ex is back, kills the wifey, scrams, and comes back years later with more power than ever before. What she intends to do with it? Don't wait and see. Read and find out![return][return]The part I like most about this book was that it introduced some new gods that I've never heard of in books about Greek, Roman, or Egyptian mythology. The character development was also pretty good and the characters semmed 'real enough.' [return][return]Good job on the book, Rachel Coles! I give ya two thumbs up!
March 5, 2012
I won this book in a firstreads giveaway. I truly enjoyed this book. I love stories about greek god and and demons. This story is about a teenager who moves from school to school sure to her dad trying to hide her from his evil ex-wife. She is having a hard time during in, but then meets this boy who is very intrigued by her and her family. She then starts acting up and getting detentions and suspended from school, her father blames the boy for being a bad influenceR on her. He cannot figure out how to protect her from his evil ex-wife, but yet still give house daughte
r the stabilityand freedom that she craves.
r the stabilityand freedom that she craves.
March 16, 2012
3.5 STARS - Won this book on Library Thing and I found it a fun, interesting, read. I had trouble keeping the name of the different gods/goddesses straight sometimes, but that didn't hinder me from following what was going on. If you like supernatural/mythological fiction, you will probably enjoy this book. Recommended.
February 28, 2012
I liked the premise of this book but have to admit I got a little confused trying to keep up with everyone's narrative. However, that point aside, I enjoyed the book, especially the mythilogical aspect.
May 7, 2012
I enjoyed this book. There were times however that I just felt lost and it wasn't so good that I wanted to backtrack to figure it out. It was good but will I read the sequel? ...I doubt it...
May 11, 2016
An exceptional first book from a great new author. Really good mythological background and story based book.
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June 30, 2012Not my kind of book, but I enjoyed it enough that it wasn't a waste of time.
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