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The Cycle of the Six Moons #1
The Starriest Summer
Fifteen-year-old Michelle saves the world on a daily basis…with her trusty video game controller, of course! Naturally, she jumps at the chance to play an experimental virtual reality game.
The beautiful fantasy world of Starrs? Check. The power to mold matter? Check. No reset button? Wait, she didn’t sign up for this!
Turns out Starrs is really real, and to make matters worse, Michelle’s interference awakens the Cycle of the Six Moons, a series of devastating trials that will devour the universe.
Fighting the apocalypse was way easier when danger stayed on the other side of the screen, but Michelle finds a secret weapon in her new-found powers. She uses them to rescue the crown prince of a powerful magic kingdom from their sworn enemies, a technologically-advanced cult that strives to eradicate magical blood.
Michelle starts to fall for Prince Jayse, the only one who believes Michelle to be a savior rather than a curse. But not even video games could prepare her for what the cult has in store for them…
The beautiful fantasy world of Starrs? Check. The power to mold matter? Check. No reset button? Wait, she didn’t sign up for this!
Turns out Starrs is really real, and to make matters worse, Michelle’s interference awakens the Cycle of the Six Moons, a series of devastating trials that will devour the universe.
Fighting the apocalypse was way easier when danger stayed on the other side of the screen, but Michelle finds a secret weapon in her new-found powers. She uses them to rescue the crown prince of a powerful magic kingdom from their sworn enemies, a technologically-advanced cult that strives to eradicate magical blood.
Michelle starts to fall for Prince Jayse, the only one who believes Michelle to be a savior rather than a curse. But not even video games could prepare her for what the cult has in store for them…
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2015
About the author
Adelle Yeung
3 books86 followersAdelle Yeung is the author of The Cycle of the Six Moons trilogy, a young adult fantasy adventure.
She is also a voice-over artist who can’t go a day without a cup of tea. When she’s not writing or recording, she enjoys sewing costumes, baking sweets, and escaping on video game adventures. She lives in California with a cat that dreams of eating the pet bird.
Website - Facebook - Twitter
She is also a voice-over artist who can’t go a day without a cup of tea. When she’s not writing or recording, she enjoys sewing costumes, baking sweets, and escaping on video game adventures. She lives in California with a cat that dreams of eating the pet bird.
Website - Facebook - Twitter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 31, 2016
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free. Thanks to author Adelle Yeung.)
This was a YA fantasy story about a girl sucked into another world.
Michelle was an okay character but she was a bit too laid back for me. She got sucked into another world, had no way home, and was stuck there for the unforeseeable future, and she didn’t even seem to care! I would have been freaking out, or at the very least be worried about how I was going to get back to Earth, but she didn’t seem all that bothered at all.
The storyline in this was about Michelle’s brother sending her to another world, which she initially thought was actually a video game. We got lots of adventures as Michelle was thought to be a goddess and went about completing missions in this new world, but the book felt very long to me, and the story dragged because of it.
The ending to this was okay, although I wouldn’t personally have called it a happy ending. Michelle would probably disagree with me though, ha ha.
6 out of 10
“I’m in a video game!”
This was a YA fantasy story about a girl sucked into another world.
Michelle was an okay character but she was a bit too laid back for me. She got sucked into another world, had no way home, and was stuck there for the unforeseeable future, and she didn’t even seem to care! I would have been freaking out, or at the very least be worried about how I was going to get back to Earth, but she didn’t seem all that bothered at all.
The storyline in this was about Michelle’s brother sending her to another world, which she initially thought was actually a video game. We got lots of adventures as Michelle was thought to be a goddess and went about completing missions in this new world, but the book felt very long to me, and the story dragged because of it.
The ending to this was okay, although I wouldn’t personally have called it a happy ending. Michelle would probably disagree with me though, ha ha.
6 out of 10
July 20, 2018
(NOTE: I received an ebook copy from the author, Adelle Yeung, in exchange for an honest review. This does not in any way affect this review. Many thanks to Adelle for sending me a copy.)
The Starriest Summer tells the story of a girl, Michelle, who loves playing video games, but one day she agrees to play a virtual world game that her brother made, only to find out it's actually real, and her interference has galvanised a series of trials that will destroy the universe. Michelle must figure out how to save the world before it's too late.
The introduction of the book threw me off immediately; Michelle is sucked into another world in the very first chapter, which gave me absolutely no time to learn more about her and her life and get to know her as a person. I don't think this is the reason I didn't really like her in the end, but perhaps more background information might have helped me relate to her better. Nevertheless, Michelle sounds like a 12-year-old or worse. Her character voice is unbelievably immature and innocent: the book is in first person from her mind, and she speaks like a kid in elementary school, with the style and the words and everything. I'm giving her some slack because she's fifteen, but even so, she sounds like her maturity level is way younger than fifteen. Her character lacks depth, which I suspect is a result of both the absence of background and the annoying character voice. Besides that, she's extremely impulsive and doesn't think before she acts, either, which brings her across as ignorant and foolish. And apparently she meets a ton of hot guys everywhere. I say this because she literally calls everyone she meets hot. Literally. I don't even think my jaw dropped in disbelief any more after the first three times.
This book does have some positives, but they definitely don't outweigh the negatives. The worldbuilding is pretty good and the different kingdoms are outlined quite clearly, and I thought the plot line was very original. Unfortunately, this book seems like it was written very halfheartedly. The story jumps from scene to scene very quickly, but not in a good way - instead you're left really confused as you read. It was like the author created obstacles (coyotes, beast mutants, enemy troops), but then she got bored of writing how they were solved and just ended the prickly situations (with Michelle alive, of course). Take one example: there was this character called the Prince Imposter, and Michelle spent some time with him while she was lost and wandering, and they were supposed to get back to Arriscyal (the city) on a boat but the next morning, he's gone. Just disappeared. Poof. And then she walks into the forest and mysteriously finds her long-lost companions, and they all go back to the city (with a lot of useless detours, of course). The Prince Imposter didn't even bring anything useful to the story and plotline and he was only mentioned for that 30 pages, so why even write him in? So basically, there were a lot of random obstacles our MC met, but they were never actually drawn out and were forgotten or made to disappear within about 10 pages. This made the novel have a terribly large amount of filler. If you cut all the pointless scenes out it would make at least one hundred pages less.
I'm not sure if I'll be reading the next book in this series. I actually cared about some of the side characters, but they were all very flat and two-dimensional without much development. At this point, I'm just surprised that I managed to get through this book without much facepalming or reactions (such as throwing my Kindle at the wall). Maybe because the book was just bland: my entire reading experience was very emotionless. I couldn't connect to the characters or the storyline and didn't much care at all.
The Starriest Summer tells the story of a girl, Michelle, who loves playing video games, but one day she agrees to play a virtual world game that her brother made, only to find out it's actually real, and her interference has galvanised a series of trials that will destroy the universe. Michelle must figure out how to save the world before it's too late.
The introduction of the book threw me off immediately; Michelle is sucked into another world in the very first chapter, which gave me absolutely no time to learn more about her and her life and get to know her as a person. I don't think this is the reason I didn't really like her in the end, but perhaps more background information might have helped me relate to her better. Nevertheless, Michelle sounds like a 12-year-old or worse. Her character voice is unbelievably immature and innocent: the book is in first person from her mind, and she speaks like a kid in elementary school, with the style and the words and everything. I'm giving her some slack because she's fifteen, but even so, she sounds like her maturity level is way younger than fifteen. Her character lacks depth, which I suspect is a result of both the absence of background and the annoying character voice. Besides that, she's extremely impulsive and doesn't think before she acts, either, which brings her across as ignorant and foolish. And apparently she meets a ton of hot guys everywhere. I say this because she literally calls everyone she meets hot. Literally. I don't even think my jaw dropped in disbelief any more after the first three times.
This book does have some positives, but they definitely don't outweigh the negatives. The worldbuilding is pretty good and the different kingdoms are outlined quite clearly, and I thought the plot line was very original. Unfortunately, this book seems like it was written very halfheartedly. The story jumps from scene to scene very quickly, but not in a good way - instead you're left really confused as you read. It was like the author created obstacles (coyotes, beast mutants, enemy troops), but then she got bored of writing how they were solved and just ended the prickly situations (with Michelle alive, of course). Take one example: there was this character called the Prince Imposter, and Michelle spent some time with him while she was lost and wandering, and they were supposed to get back to Arriscyal (the city) on a boat but the next morning, he's gone. Just disappeared. Poof. And then she walks into the forest and mysteriously finds her long-lost companions, and they all go back to the city (with a lot of useless detours, of course). The Prince Imposter didn't even bring anything useful to the story and plotline and he was only mentioned for that 30 pages, so why even write him in? So basically, there were a lot of random obstacles our MC met, but they were never actually drawn out and were forgotten or made to disappear within about 10 pages. This made the novel have a terribly large amount of filler. If you cut all the pointless scenes out it would make at least one hundred pages less.
I'm not sure if I'll be reading the next book in this series. I actually cared about some of the side characters, but they were all very flat and two-dimensional without much development. At this point, I'm just surprised that I managed to get through this book without much facepalming or reactions (such as throwing my Kindle at the wall). Maybe because the book was just bland: my entire reading experience was very emotionless. I couldn't connect to the characters or the storyline and didn't much care at all.
December 29, 2015
Three words: Awesome, entertaining and fun. the book is so cool. the building of the different worlds is spectacular and Michelle’s reactions are priceless.
Adelle young does a great job on making a fresh fantastical book that brings you smiles, laughs, twist and turns and is truly entertaining.
You have so much going on and yet not much at the same time. We have Starrs which is the alternate world that Michelle’s brother interferes with and she goes to thinking she is in a virtual reality game and Tyme which is where Michelle is from. These two worlds were not meant to collide right now in the dormant cycle and it awakens the cycle of the six moons. Of which devastating results can occur if Michelle leaves and also because she came. Her adventures in Starrs are full of danger and adventure. They are imagination at its finest and you are brought into this world and can see it and live it with how it is written and described to you. Her friendship with Jayse is so easy and sweet but as it turns into more it is adorable to watch.
Michelle almost throughout believes she is in a game. It isn’t until the first moon cycle when she is thrown to another area in Starrs and is fending for herself against the Metriochs and cyborgs that she really has reality set in. She also sees that people believe that the goddess their creator( which they believe is her) are not there for her. They think that she is only there for those in a cushy existence especially after the second cycle begins and famine hits. At this time she meets the imposter Jayse who helps her find her strength and where she experience her first true loss and also makes her believe in herself and has her feel good about herself. She begins to become a goddess in all meanings. She helps the people without wanting the praise or them knowing. she restores their faith and belief.
Before this she meets Jayse who she is falling for but afraid of this since they are destined for each other. He is the only one that believes in her and sees her as a savior. He cares about her. Jayse though is troubled. All he wants is to be himself and heal others. He is hurt by his father’s feeling that he is weak and what caused the death of his uncle. Jayse is out to find that herb that will make his father immortal so that he never has to become king. His mother a sweet soul is acting odd and begins to want Jayse to find this as well. Not sure why the sudden change in tune. Something is up there. But Jayse isn’t a bad guy in fact he is a sweety pie. He cares and is genuinely kind. He believes in Michelle with all he is. Together they are able to help each other find strength and belief in themselves.
We have other mysteries happening to and the one involving Jayse’s best friend’s lost childhood I believe is big. I think it will impact many things. His best friend is kind and adorable. He genuinely cares about everyone and helping.
these three are great as a team. They support and believe in each other and their abilities. They care for others and each other. Michelle has to make a tough decision in the end but finds that she is capable of helping and determined to.
the characters draw you in and help drive the story. The world that is built is imaginative and written in a way that is real and draws you into it. You can picture it and see the adventures unfold before you eyes by the descriptions and the feelings of the characters and their actions.
A wonderfully written imaginative book that brings you on a adventure that you will not want to put down and continue to the end of the last of the book and the ones to follow in this wild, amazing, imaginative, entertaining and fun ride.
Adelle young does a great job on making a fresh fantastical book that brings you smiles, laughs, twist and turns and is truly entertaining.
You have so much going on and yet not much at the same time. We have Starrs which is the alternate world that Michelle’s brother interferes with and she goes to thinking she is in a virtual reality game and Tyme which is where Michelle is from. These two worlds were not meant to collide right now in the dormant cycle and it awakens the cycle of the six moons. Of which devastating results can occur if Michelle leaves and also because she came. Her adventures in Starrs are full of danger and adventure. They are imagination at its finest and you are brought into this world and can see it and live it with how it is written and described to you. Her friendship with Jayse is so easy and sweet but as it turns into more it is adorable to watch.
Michelle almost throughout believes she is in a game. It isn’t until the first moon cycle when she is thrown to another area in Starrs and is fending for herself against the Metriochs and cyborgs that she really has reality set in. She also sees that people believe that the goddess their creator( which they believe is her) are not there for her. They think that she is only there for those in a cushy existence especially after the second cycle begins and famine hits. At this time she meets the imposter Jayse who helps her find her strength and where she experience her first true loss and also makes her believe in herself and has her feel good about herself. She begins to become a goddess in all meanings. She helps the people without wanting the praise or them knowing. she restores their faith and belief.
Before this she meets Jayse who she is falling for but afraid of this since they are destined for each other. He is the only one that believes in her and sees her as a savior. He cares about her. Jayse though is troubled. All he wants is to be himself and heal others. He is hurt by his father’s feeling that he is weak and what caused the death of his uncle. Jayse is out to find that herb that will make his father immortal so that he never has to become king. His mother a sweet soul is acting odd and begins to want Jayse to find this as well. Not sure why the sudden change in tune. Something is up there. But Jayse isn’t a bad guy in fact he is a sweety pie. He cares and is genuinely kind. He believes in Michelle with all he is. Together they are able to help each other find strength and belief in themselves.
We have other mysteries happening to and the one involving Jayse’s best friend’s lost childhood I believe is big. I think it will impact many things. His best friend is kind and adorable. He genuinely cares about everyone and helping.
these three are great as a team. They support and believe in each other and their abilities. They care for others and each other. Michelle has to make a tough decision in the end but finds that she is capable of helping and determined to.
the characters draw you in and help drive the story. The world that is built is imaginative and written in a way that is real and draws you into it. You can picture it and see the adventures unfold before you eyes by the descriptions and the feelings of the characters and their actions.
A wonderfully written imaginative book that brings you on a adventure that you will not want to put down and continue to the end of the last of the book and the ones to follow in this wild, amazing, imaginative, entertaining and fun ride.
February 17, 2019
Michelle is sent into a video game in the land of Starr by her brother's machine. Michelle has to learn how to be a Goddess and obtain her goal.
Abandoned after 1st book.
I'm curious about what happens to the characters, but I can't bear to read 2 more 450+ page books to learn more.
Likes:
* 2 handsome heroes
* Michelle's humility about being the Goddess except when she made people uncomfortable
* Interesting world ~ plants, food, super powers, creatures
* Monsters were excellent
Dislikes:
* Interesting but not much action and not many answers
* Michelle's slang is annoying and sounds like she's trying too hard to be cool
* Michelle is disrespectful to other characters
* Old, ragged and cryptic Madam Manasa
* Lots of cooking, eating, bathing, dressing and traveling time
* Story didn't really accomplish much
With-reservations:
violence, war, poisoning, kidnapping, suicide, blame
For review:
Received a free review copy from the author for [YA Buddy Readers' Corner ♥] Buddy Read and Review.
Buddy Read and Review
Part I: The Starriest World
After 7:
I thought it's dragging, but the premise is interesting, but not especially unique, being trapped in a video game.
Brother -
Michelle -
Abilities -
Gediyon -
Unhappy welcome -
The Game -
After 13:
Jayse -
Michelle -
Launce & Nichols -
The Cycle -
Traveling Cooking and Preening -
Slow -
Part II: The Creator's Role
After 19:
Desert trek -
Lady Dreana het Codget Ivy Bescur, Champion of Tyrique - flashy and lethal new character
Prince Imposter -
Reunited -
Part III: The Quest for Tyme
Finished: Unlike most books that end on a frantic pace where you can't bear to set the book down, this book just drifts slowly to a close, in a gentle cliffhanger. I ended the the book liking the chracters. But I am not sure that the story was compelling enough to inspire me to read the next book, unless
Abandoned after 1st book.
I'm curious about what happens to the characters, but I can't bear to read 2 more 450+ page books to learn more.
Likes:
* 2 handsome heroes
* Michelle's humility about being the Goddess except when she made people uncomfortable
* Interesting world ~ plants, food, super powers, creatures
* Monsters were excellent
Dislikes:
* Interesting but not much action and not many answers
* Michelle's slang is annoying and sounds like she's trying too hard to be cool
* Michelle is disrespectful to other characters
* Old, ragged and cryptic Madam Manasa
* Lots of cooking, eating, bathing, dressing and traveling time
* Story didn't really accomplish much
With-reservations:
violence, war, poisoning, kidnapping, suicide, blame
For review:
Received a free review copy from the author for [YA Buddy Readers' Corner ♥] Buddy Read and Review.
Buddy Read and Review
Part I: The Starriest World
After 7:
I thought it's dragging, but the premise is interesting, but not especially unique, being trapped in a video game.
Brother -
Michelle -
Abilities -
Gediyon -
Unhappy welcome -
The Game -
After 13:
Jayse -
Michelle -
Launce & Nichols -
The Cycle -
Traveling Cooking and Preening -
Slow -
Part II: The Creator's Role
After 19:
Desert trek -
Lady Dreana het Codget Ivy Bescur, Champion of Tyrique - flashy and lethal new character
Prince Imposter -
Reunited -
Part III: The Quest for Tyme
Finished: Unlike most books that end on a frantic pace where you can't bear to set the book down, this book just drifts slowly to a close, in a gentle cliffhanger. I ended the the book liking the chracters. But I am not sure that the story was compelling enough to inspire me to read the next book, unless
October 26, 2016
The Starriest Summer is an action-packed adventure that follows 15-year-old Michelle as she unwittingly enters the fantastical world of Starrs through what she thought was a video game. Once there, she learns she has awakened the Cycle, which can and does have devastating effects for the people of Starrs. Michelle sets out on all kinds of missions to help cure people who have been poisoned, repair parts of the city, save the prince, and even help fight famine. Along the way, she makes a handful of friends to help her learn the ins and outs of this new world and succeed in her efforts to help as many people as she can using her newfound Goddess powers.
The author does a fabulous job of describing this new world, and I found the details to be unique and captivating. I was able to picture everything easily, from the mutant animals to the landscapes and special traveling bubbles. Michelle's character comes across as kind of hyper and her voice seems pretty young for a fifteen-year-old, but I still found her to be funny a lot of the time. For example, when Gedyion warns her of the dangers of accompanying him on his mission to save the prince, she responds with (my favorite line), "I've broken into Bowser's castle a bunch of times. I'm sure this is nothing."
It does seem to take her a little longer than it should to figure out that she's not in a video game, but thankfully, that doesn't slow down the action, which is pretty much in full force the whole book. I would have liked to see more of Michelle's life before she went on her adventure to Starrs just to get to know her history as a character on a deeper level. We do get a little insight into her feelings about her upbringing and feeling like she's compared to her older brother through her conversations with the side characters later, and that honestly makes her much more relatable. Speaking of the side characters, I thought they were well done for the most part, especially Gedyion. He has what seems like a complicated backstory that I'd like to know more about. Some of the other side characters come in very briefly and then disappear from the story, so I wonder if they will come up in the sequels. The ending of this book clearly paves the way for future books, so I guess time will tell.
Overall, this book was light-hearted and fun, and I could see young readers enjoying it.
(I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.)
The author does a fabulous job of describing this new world, and I found the details to be unique and captivating. I was able to picture everything easily, from the mutant animals to the landscapes and special traveling bubbles. Michelle's character comes across as kind of hyper and her voice seems pretty young for a fifteen-year-old, but I still found her to be funny a lot of the time. For example, when Gedyion warns her of the dangers of accompanying him on his mission to save the prince, she responds with (my favorite line), "I've broken into Bowser's castle a bunch of times. I'm sure this is nothing."
It does seem to take her a little longer than it should to figure out that she's not in a video game, but thankfully, that doesn't slow down the action, which is pretty much in full force the whole book. I would have liked to see more of Michelle's life before she went on her adventure to Starrs just to get to know her history as a character on a deeper level. We do get a little insight into her feelings about her upbringing and feeling like she's compared to her older brother through her conversations with the side characters later, and that honestly makes her much more relatable. Speaking of the side characters, I thought they were well done for the most part, especially Gedyion. He has what seems like a complicated backstory that I'd like to know more about. Some of the other side characters come in very briefly and then disappear from the story, so I wonder if they will come up in the sequels. The ending of this book clearly paves the way for future books, so I guess time will tell.
Overall, this book was light-hearted and fun, and I could see young readers enjoying it.
(I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.)
August 9, 2016
The Starriest Summer is the First book in The Cycle of the Six Moons trilogy by Adelle Yeung.
I do believe as well that this is the first published book by the author, and if that's true, I am very impressed.
The story is about a 15 year old girl, Michelle, who inadvertently ends up in an alternate universe. She thinks she is about to play a virtual reality game thanks to some weird set up that her brother has put together in their garage. She loves gaming, so trying virtual reality is going to be a real buzz. Or so she thinks. It takes her a while to realise that she isn't actually playing a game. It turns out that she is an incarnation of the Creator, the Goddess of the universe she has gone to. It isn't her time to be there, and because she is, it sets off the Cycle of the Six Moons that can lead to the end of all the universes. She has to try to stop the cycles, and the new found powers she has, and her new friends, will hopefully be enough to do just that. It's certainly not going to be easy. It's a lot to place on a young girl's shoulders, especially one that has hardly had any responsibility in her life until now. Will she manage it?
The author's imagination knows no bounds, from the main character's brother making a machine that takes her to another world, to flying in protective bubbles from place to place. It was great reading about her discovering her powers, and her reaction to them, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about all of the wonderful places, people and things in 'Starrs'. The premise of our heroine thinking that she was only taking part in some amazing virtual reality game was good fun. As a gamer myself I had quite the giggle at things like her waiting to find a 'save point', or describing the different characters as Mages etc, all characters found in games that I play. I think if you aren't a gamer you would lose that little extra bit of fun, but it certainly won't detract from the story line and your enjoyment of it.
It's a book full of fantasy, thrills, and excitement, and although it's a book aimed at the younger reader, it's still a book that hooked me and I am in my 40s. I enjoyed it, and will undoubtedly read the next in the trilogy to see what happens next.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I do believe as well that this is the first published book by the author, and if that's true, I am very impressed.
The story is about a 15 year old girl, Michelle, who inadvertently ends up in an alternate universe. She thinks she is about to play a virtual reality game thanks to some weird set up that her brother has put together in their garage. She loves gaming, so trying virtual reality is going to be a real buzz. Or so she thinks. It takes her a while to realise that she isn't actually playing a game. It turns out that she is an incarnation of the Creator, the Goddess of the universe she has gone to. It isn't her time to be there, and because she is, it sets off the Cycle of the Six Moons that can lead to the end of all the universes. She has to try to stop the cycles, and the new found powers she has, and her new friends, will hopefully be enough to do just that. It's certainly not going to be easy. It's a lot to place on a young girl's shoulders, especially one that has hardly had any responsibility in her life until now. Will she manage it?
The author's imagination knows no bounds, from the main character's brother making a machine that takes her to another world, to flying in protective bubbles from place to place. It was great reading about her discovering her powers, and her reaction to them, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about all of the wonderful places, people and things in 'Starrs'. The premise of our heroine thinking that she was only taking part in some amazing virtual reality game was good fun. As a gamer myself I had quite the giggle at things like her waiting to find a 'save point', or describing the different characters as Mages etc, all characters found in games that I play. I think if you aren't a gamer you would lose that little extra bit of fun, but it certainly won't detract from the story line and your enjoyment of it.
It's a book full of fantasy, thrills, and excitement, and although it's a book aimed at the younger reader, it's still a book that hooked me and I am in my 40s. I enjoyed it, and will undoubtedly read the next in the trilogy to see what happens next.
I was given a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
January 19, 2023
Review on morrisareads.wordpress.com
First off I'd like to say that the author gave me a free copy in return for an honest review. This in no way affects my views of the book. Thank you to the author.
The Starriest Summer is the first in a series called "The Cycle of the Six Moons." It's about a young girl named Michelle who enters a video game world, that ends up being real. She in the game is this "Goddess" and has to help save the people in this world from the Cycle of the Six moons being awakened.
I'd like to start off I suppose with the negatives, and that way I can end on a positive note. When I read the synopsis of this book, I was very curious. It seemed like an interesting story that I would enjoy. However, I only somewhat enjoyed it and had a few issues.
The first thing was that I felt like this book started off in the middle of the introduction, rather than at the beginning. Immediately I was thrown into the story without learning more about Michelle and her life and who she is as a person. That may be why I didn't end up liking her character all that much (and enjoyed all the other side characters much more). The background information was missing, ultimately.
Regarding the main character Michelle, I didn't exactly enjoy her voice. The story is in first person from her mind, and I think I'd have enjoyed this book more if it was told in third person. Michelle is very impulsive and often doesn't think before she acts. Except, despite the impulsiveness, she can do no wrong. Michelle is practically unstoppable and it's unrealistic. I realize it's a "video game" but even I in video games can never get things right the first time. Michelle, however, learned how to use her powers immediately and could use them at the snap of a finger. She also says a few really really airheaded and dumb things. One of these things actually made me nearly put the book down. The quote was:
"'Careful Uncle,' the girl sighs.
Uncle? There's no way she and Bryan can be blood related because they look nothing alike. She has light skin with rosy undertones, and he's - well, he's a big black guy."
When I read this I kind of just...facepalmed. A lot of Michelle's comments are similar to this, ignorant and foolish in nature. Despite it, I pushed through because there were parts of the book I did enjoy. I couldn't get through my review without mentioning this, however.
What I DID enjoy about this book was the plot line & the world. The author did an amazing job creating the world in which the book takes place. There were so many creatures, lot's of interesting magic, people, kingdoms. It was all very creative and I liked learning more and more about what was happening to the people in the video game world.
The plot line was also very very interesting. The fighting, the magic, the story took me on an interesting adventure that I could go no where else. Plus, isn't it everyone's dream to jump into a video game? I know I'd love to hop into an Assassin's Creed video games.
I also loved the side characters more, especially Gedyion. He was a puppy and I loved his innocence.
This book was alright, I give it a three out of five stars. I would not normally pick this up, because I feel like it was geared more towards middle grade and not exactly for young adult. I am in no way saying adults cannot read middle grade or young adult; I just truly feel this was a middle grade novel, or more for the younger side of YA.
Not sure if I will be continuing the series, but if you like video games, fantasy, and really amazing world building, then read The Starriest Summer. Thank you again Adelle for letting me read the book.
First off I'd like to say that the author gave me a free copy in return for an honest review. This in no way affects my views of the book. Thank you to the author.
The Starriest Summer is the first in a series called "The Cycle of the Six Moons." It's about a young girl named Michelle who enters a video game world, that ends up being real. She in the game is this "Goddess" and has to help save the people in this world from the Cycle of the Six moons being awakened.
I'd like to start off I suppose with the negatives, and that way I can end on a positive note. When I read the synopsis of this book, I was very curious. It seemed like an interesting story that I would enjoy. However, I only somewhat enjoyed it and had a few issues.
The first thing was that I felt like this book started off in the middle of the introduction, rather than at the beginning. Immediately I was thrown into the story without learning more about Michelle and her life and who she is as a person. That may be why I didn't end up liking her character all that much (and enjoyed all the other side characters much more). The background information was missing, ultimately.
Regarding the main character Michelle, I didn't exactly enjoy her voice. The story is in first person from her mind, and I think I'd have enjoyed this book more if it was told in third person. Michelle is very impulsive and often doesn't think before she acts. Except, despite the impulsiveness, she can do no wrong. Michelle is practically unstoppable and it's unrealistic. I realize it's a "video game" but even I in video games can never get things right the first time. Michelle, however, learned how to use her powers immediately and could use them at the snap of a finger. She also says a few really really airheaded and dumb things. One of these things actually made me nearly put the book down. The quote was:
"'Careful Uncle,' the girl sighs.
Uncle? There's no way she and Bryan can be blood related because they look nothing alike. She has light skin with rosy undertones, and he's - well, he's a big black guy."
When I read this I kind of just...facepalmed. A lot of Michelle's comments are similar to this, ignorant and foolish in nature. Despite it, I pushed through because there were parts of the book I did enjoy. I couldn't get through my review without mentioning this, however.
What I DID enjoy about this book was the plot line & the world. The author did an amazing job creating the world in which the book takes place. There were so many creatures, lot's of interesting magic, people, kingdoms. It was all very creative and I liked learning more and more about what was happening to the people in the video game world.
The plot line was also very very interesting. The fighting, the magic, the story took me on an interesting adventure that I could go no where else. Plus, isn't it everyone's dream to jump into a video game? I know I'd love to hop into an Assassin's Creed video games.
I also loved the side characters more, especially Gedyion. He was a puppy and I loved his innocence.
This book was alright, I give it a three out of five stars. I would not normally pick this up, because I feel like it was geared more towards middle grade and not exactly for young adult. I am in no way saying adults cannot read middle grade or young adult; I just truly feel this was a middle grade novel, or more for the younger side of YA.
Not sure if I will be continuing the series, but if you like video games, fantasy, and really amazing world building, then read The Starriest Summer. Thank you again Adelle for letting me read the book.
December 17, 2015
When faced with a book filled with video games, really real virtual reality, and smoking hot princes I couldn’t resist wanting to read The Starriest Summer. This book is a nerds dream, who hasn’t secretly wished that they could really enter a video game and have awesome powers?
Michelle’s brother has invented a machine that will allow players to really enter a video game. For world saving, video game loving Michelle this seems like her dream come true, until it turns out that the world she’s found herself in is in fact not a video game but reality. In the world of Starrs she’s a Goddess, and an early one at that. By entering Starrs Michelle has accidentally started an event that only occurs every six hundred years or so…hundreds of years early! Now she has to come to grips with the fact that she’s no longer on Tyme (A.K.A. Earth), learn to control her powers, and save the world from a disaster she’s accidentally caused, all while trying not to fall in love with the Prince she rescued.
When I started reading The Starriest Summer I was really excited, until I met Michelle. Her personality came off as rude and way to fangirlish. She yelled, squealed, and caused crazy destruction in Starrs just to have fun (ok so she fixed the buildings she broke but still). It really irritated me for almost the first half of the book, but as the story moved on and Michelle began to realize that she might not actually be in a video game her fangirl nature tempered a bit and the reading became much easier.
Once I got into the story I found that I really liked this book. The characters were fun and while many did feel like they came straight out of a JRPG they all had their own personalities and endearments. The story was well paced for the most part and very creative. I loved the blend of fantasy, YA, and video game themes in this book. Adelle Yeung does a great job of weaving story elements through the whole book that show up at different times to surprise readers.
The pacing, while good did hit a few bumps along the way. The fight scenes in this book felt like they came and went like flash floods. I had to go back and re-read a few of them just to see how they started. One minute Michelle is looking over the side of a boat and then boom she’s in the middle of a fight. It kind of threw me off a few times, and could be evened out in the next book.
The Starriest Summer is the first in a planned trilogy and I cannot wait until I can get my hands on the next book to see how everything turns out. Fans of video game themed books, fantasy, fun romance, and wild adventures should pick up a copy of this book. You’ll enjoy it.
Note: I received an electronic copy of this book from YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for my fair and honest opinion which I have stated above.
Michelle’s brother has invented a machine that will allow players to really enter a video game. For world saving, video game loving Michelle this seems like her dream come true, until it turns out that the world she’s found herself in is in fact not a video game but reality. In the world of Starrs she’s a Goddess, and an early one at that. By entering Starrs Michelle has accidentally started an event that only occurs every six hundred years or so…hundreds of years early! Now she has to come to grips with the fact that she’s no longer on Tyme (A.K.A. Earth), learn to control her powers, and save the world from a disaster she’s accidentally caused, all while trying not to fall in love with the Prince she rescued.
When I started reading The Starriest Summer I was really excited, until I met Michelle. Her personality came off as rude and way to fangirlish. She yelled, squealed, and caused crazy destruction in Starrs just to have fun (ok so she fixed the buildings she broke but still). It really irritated me for almost the first half of the book, but as the story moved on and Michelle began to realize that she might not actually be in a video game her fangirl nature tempered a bit and the reading became much easier.
Once I got into the story I found that I really liked this book. The characters were fun and while many did feel like they came straight out of a JRPG they all had their own personalities and endearments. The story was well paced for the most part and very creative. I loved the blend of fantasy, YA, and video game themes in this book. Adelle Yeung does a great job of weaving story elements through the whole book that show up at different times to surprise readers.
The pacing, while good did hit a few bumps along the way. The fight scenes in this book felt like they came and went like flash floods. I had to go back and re-read a few of them just to see how they started. One minute Michelle is looking over the side of a boat and then boom she’s in the middle of a fight. It kind of threw me off a few times, and could be evened out in the next book.
The Starriest Summer is the first in a planned trilogy and I cannot wait until I can get my hands on the next book to see how everything turns out. Fans of video game themed books, fantasy, fun romance, and wild adventures should pick up a copy of this book. You’ll enjoy it.
Note: I received an electronic copy of this book from YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for my fair and honest opinion which I have stated above.
November 15, 2016
I just have to come straight out and say this didn't interest me.
I loved the cover and idea, but it all felt wrong.
Michelle is at home one day and her brother rigs her up to one of his experiments-she, without asking any questions, then asks to play his interactive video game.
It's not clear how it happens, but Michelle ends up in another world and is taken to be the goddess who will save them.
She seems to spend the book lurching from one disaster to the next. She spends most of the book ogling the guys she comes across, and commenting needlessly on how fit they are. In amongst this, she stumbles around trying to experiment with her new skills.
An interesting idea, but this felt a mess. By the end, when she says she will stay on Stars to complete her cycle (!?!), I have to say I really couldn't have cared less.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy.
I loved the cover and idea, but it all felt wrong.
Michelle is at home one day and her brother rigs her up to one of his experiments-she, without asking any questions, then asks to play his interactive video game.
It's not clear how it happens, but Michelle ends up in another world and is taken to be the goddess who will save them.
She seems to spend the book lurching from one disaster to the next. She spends most of the book ogling the guys she comes across, and commenting needlessly on how fit they are. In amongst this, she stumbles around trying to experiment with her new skills.
An interesting idea, but this felt a mess. By the end, when she says she will stay on Stars to complete her cycle (!?!), I have to say I really couldn't have cared less.
Thanks to the author for the advance copy.
November 13, 2016
(I received a digital copy of this book for free. Thanks to author Adelle Yeung.)
Michelle get sucked into another world and need to face different dangers.
The world is magical and creative. There are many monsters and dangers you are going to face. You learn different characters with their own specialties and they are very likable.
What I didn't really like at first was Michel's personality, she was disrespectful in the beginning, but after you read more she gets a little nicer.
It’s a great story with many different elements you can enjoy. I’m very interested in the second book.
I give this book 4 of 5 stars, because I really enjoyed this book. It was very creative and interesting.
Michelle get sucked into another world and need to face different dangers.
The world is magical and creative. There are many monsters and dangers you are going to face. You learn different characters with their own specialties and they are very likable.
What I didn't really like at first was Michel's personality, she was disrespectful in the beginning, but after you read more she gets a little nicer.
It’s a great story with many different elements you can enjoy. I’m very interested in the second book.
I give this book 4 of 5 stars, because I really enjoyed this book. It was very creative and interesting.
July 12, 2016
I’m the type of guy who never read any young adult fantasy novels. I’ve read all seven Harry Potter books, but I’ve never really gone outside of Harry Potter. I usually stick to books that are highly politicized or historical in nature. So this book isn’t something I’d normally pick up if I saw it on the shelf, just because it’s out of my comfort zone and what I’d like to read. Because it’s written by someone I know, I decided to read it.
I’m pretty pleased that I decided to read it. The one thing that I love about this book is that you don’t have a be a young adult—someone in the twelve to eighteen age range—to enjoy a fantasy novel. You could even be like me, the most uncreative, unimaginative person in the world, and that’s what makes a book like this so great.
That’s the first thing I have to say about this book. The descriptions and everything that was used to describe the worlds, everything that she eats, everything that she smells, everything that she does, is done in really descriptive detail, and I really like that because nowadays, a lot of books try too hard with the description, and it doesn’t jump out of the book and come to life, and this one actually did. That’s probably my favorite aspect of the book.
I have seen some reviews where people say that they don’t really like the main character, Michelle, because she comes off as immature or childish. All I have to say to those people is that you’re not doing it right. That’s kind of the whole point of Michelle’s charm. She’s supposed to be somewhat childish and seemingly immature, even though she’s really not. She’s supposed to come off like that, because she is only fifteen years old. Think about the things you were thinking about when you were fifteen years old. I’m pretty sure it’s not mature and sophisticated like you want Michelle to be.
Another thing that I really like about this book is the fact that you have this setup of characters that are outside of their traditional roles that would be normal to the YA fantasy genre. You can see that the author is building up the relationship between Michelle and Jayse, Michelle and Gediyon, even between Gediyon and Jayse, as equal on all grounds, and I like that. To me, that says the approach to writing this book was done in a way that’s different than a lot of authors might use. This is a unique way of writing the characters.
Overall, I love the book, and I can’t wait for two and three to come out. Next to Harry Potter, this is probably the only young adult fantasy novels I’ll ever read in my entire life. You should absolutely go buy a copy if you’re a fan of anything. If you’re a fan of description, video games, fantasy, anything that has to do with coming out of the young adult fantasy genre, I would definitely read it. Even if you’re someone like me who’s not into it, I’d definitely give it a try. If it takes you out of your comfort zone, you might end up discovering that you love it after all.
I’m pretty pleased that I decided to read it. The one thing that I love about this book is that you don’t have a be a young adult—someone in the twelve to eighteen age range—to enjoy a fantasy novel. You could even be like me, the most uncreative, unimaginative person in the world, and that’s what makes a book like this so great.
That’s the first thing I have to say about this book. The descriptions and everything that was used to describe the worlds, everything that she eats, everything that she smells, everything that she does, is done in really descriptive detail, and I really like that because nowadays, a lot of books try too hard with the description, and it doesn’t jump out of the book and come to life, and this one actually did. That’s probably my favorite aspect of the book.
I have seen some reviews where people say that they don’t really like the main character, Michelle, because she comes off as immature or childish. All I have to say to those people is that you’re not doing it right. That’s kind of the whole point of Michelle’s charm. She’s supposed to be somewhat childish and seemingly immature, even though she’s really not. She’s supposed to come off like that, because she is only fifteen years old. Think about the things you were thinking about when you were fifteen years old. I’m pretty sure it’s not mature and sophisticated like you want Michelle to be.
Another thing that I really like about this book is the fact that you have this setup of characters that are outside of their traditional roles that would be normal to the YA fantasy genre. You can see that the author is building up the relationship between Michelle and Jayse, Michelle and Gediyon, even between Gediyon and Jayse, as equal on all grounds, and I like that. To me, that says the approach to writing this book was done in a way that’s different than a lot of authors might use. This is a unique way of writing the characters.
Overall, I love the book, and I can’t wait for two and three to come out. Next to Harry Potter, this is probably the only young adult fantasy novels I’ll ever read in my entire life. You should absolutely go buy a copy if you’re a fan of anything. If you’re a fan of description, video games, fantasy, anything that has to do with coming out of the young adult fantasy genre, I would definitely read it. Even if you’re someone like me who’s not into it, I’d definitely give it a try. If it takes you out of your comfort zone, you might end up discovering that you love it after all.
June 24, 2016
A Fun and Lively YA Fantasy Adventure!
The Cycle of the Six Moons is a high-fantasy series that delivers a fun, exciting action/adventure that is sure to delight fans of the YA and sci-fi/fantasy genres. The series is set in Starrs, a universe that is parallel to our own. Starrs is a richly and fantastically realized world, populated by a cast of characters that feel larger than life, yet are easy to fall and root for. The magic system used in this world is inventive and imaginative, and the author provides glimpses and creative details into diverse peoples and cultures inhabiting Starrs (though the novel could benefit from further fleshing out of these cultures).
The perpetually hungry and unrelentingly bubbly Michelle serves as the reader's introduction to this world. A typical spunky teenager and resident of our own Earth, Michelle tries out a virtual reality video game built by her mad-genius brother during summer break. Unbeknownst to her, the game is actually a gateway to the very real world of Starrs, and she is suddenly thrust into a position of responsibility and authority as the people of Starrs believe her to be a reincarnation of their beloved Goddess. Watching Michelle navigate this new world and forge relationships with a host of unbelievable characters -- each more imaginative than the last (I won't spoil them for you!) -- while believing herself to be in a video game, provides for very amusing and entertaining moments. However, perhaps most compelling is Michelle's journey into maturity, as she comes to accept the reality of her circumstances, grows into her role of authority, and learns to fight for people and ideas larger than herself.
The writing itself is great, full of references to video games and other sci-fi/fantasy properties. The story reads like a video game, as Michelle's experiences mirrors that of a player exploring an imaginary world. The novel is a love letter to children of the '90s, an era of older-generation gaming consoles and nerd-dom before it became cool. If you are a fan of video games, you will feel right at home in the world of Starrs. The novel's tone is perhaps its most distinctive feature: the novel strives for a lively, colorful, and sometimes cartoony aesthetic rather than a darkly-toned, realistic, serious high fantasy (though to be fair, the series does adopt darker themes later on). This may not work in the novel's favor; if you like your fantasy dark and dry, this may not be the series for you. However, I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys video games, casual YA fantasy, and fans of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" series (the work to which The Cycle of the Six Moons most closely compares, in my opinion).
Happy reading!
The Cycle of the Six Moons is a high-fantasy series that delivers a fun, exciting action/adventure that is sure to delight fans of the YA and sci-fi/fantasy genres. The series is set in Starrs, a universe that is parallel to our own. Starrs is a richly and fantastically realized world, populated by a cast of characters that feel larger than life, yet are easy to fall and root for. The magic system used in this world is inventive and imaginative, and the author provides glimpses and creative details into diverse peoples and cultures inhabiting Starrs (though the novel could benefit from further fleshing out of these cultures).
The perpetually hungry and unrelentingly bubbly Michelle serves as the reader's introduction to this world. A typical spunky teenager and resident of our own Earth, Michelle tries out a virtual reality video game built by her mad-genius brother during summer break. Unbeknownst to her, the game is actually a gateway to the very real world of Starrs, and she is suddenly thrust into a position of responsibility and authority as the people of Starrs believe her to be a reincarnation of their beloved Goddess. Watching Michelle navigate this new world and forge relationships with a host of unbelievable characters -- each more imaginative than the last (I won't spoil them for you!) -- while believing herself to be in a video game, provides for very amusing and entertaining moments. However, perhaps most compelling is Michelle's journey into maturity, as she comes to accept the reality of her circumstances, grows into her role of authority, and learns to fight for people and ideas larger than herself.
The writing itself is great, full of references to video games and other sci-fi/fantasy properties. The story reads like a video game, as Michelle's experiences mirrors that of a player exploring an imaginary world. The novel is a love letter to children of the '90s, an era of older-generation gaming consoles and nerd-dom before it became cool. If you are a fan of video games, you will feel right at home in the world of Starrs. The novel's tone is perhaps its most distinctive feature: the novel strives for a lively, colorful, and sometimes cartoony aesthetic rather than a darkly-toned, realistic, serious high fantasy (though to be fair, the series does adopt darker themes later on). This may not work in the novel's favor; if you like your fantasy dark and dry, this may not be the series for you. However, I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys video games, casual YA fantasy, and fans of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" series (the work to which The Cycle of the Six Moons most closely compares, in my opinion).
Happy reading!
November 5, 2016
( I received a digital copy of this book. Thanks to Adelle Yeung !!)
I like this book. Even though the main character isn't my favourite , I like the side characters like Gediyon , Jayse , the Prince Imposter .......I find this name quite amusing and comical !!! ;)
I even like the part where Michelle pointed out Gediyon to the younger girls by saying," ....the pretty guy there" and the girls giggled and said "guys aren't pretty"...to which she replied that "some guys are"
Michelle got trapped in the video game and the discovered that it isn't a video game anymore yet, she seemed to be least bothered about returning back home. When she finally realised that it isn't a game anymore, she found out how complicated and twisted things are and people have huge expectations of her. Then she gets lost and abducted and there are other twists and turns. The story line is great but the book seems to be missing certain things.
Michelle is restless and crazy. She is interested in every other cool boy she meets. Her behaviour definitely isn't as mature as a fifteen year old. She seems to be eleven or twelve.
Gediyon is an interesting character who has a dark history which he is unaware of. I hope the next book gives a better insight to his life.
Jayse seems to be a young prince who is burdened by everyone's expectations of him.
The Prince Imposter is another character I am interested in knowing more about. I hope he isn't dead. He seemed to be important and having an important role in stoppig the cycle and defeating Paeston. I'm guessing that he might be the younger brother of Jayse who he thought died earlier. After all they look so alike.
What I enjoyed about this book were the humorous moments.The book has a simple story and is written in simple language.Though, I think that younger readers would enjoy the book much more.
The book has left me wondering about The Prince Imposter.....I hope to see him in the next book. Yes, I'm planning to read the next book soon.
I like this book. Even though the main character isn't my favourite , I like the side characters like Gediyon , Jayse , the Prince Imposter .......I find this name quite amusing and comical !!! ;)
I even like the part where Michelle pointed out Gediyon to the younger girls by saying," ....the pretty guy there" and the girls giggled and said "guys aren't pretty"...to which she replied that "some guys are"
Michelle got trapped in the video game and the discovered that it isn't a video game anymore yet, she seemed to be least bothered about returning back home. When she finally realised that it isn't a game anymore, she found out how complicated and twisted things are and people have huge expectations of her. Then she gets lost and abducted and there are other twists and turns. The story line is great but the book seems to be missing certain things.
Michelle is restless and crazy. She is interested in every other cool boy she meets. Her behaviour definitely isn't as mature as a fifteen year old. She seems to be eleven or twelve.
Gediyon is an interesting character who has a dark history which he is unaware of. I hope the next book gives a better insight to his life.
Jayse seems to be a young prince who is burdened by everyone's expectations of him.
The Prince Imposter is another character I am interested in knowing more about. I hope he isn't dead. He seemed to be important and having an important role in stoppig the cycle and defeating Paeston. I'm guessing that he might be the younger brother of Jayse who he thought died earlier. After all they look so alike.
What I enjoyed about this book were the humorous moments.The book has a simple story and is written in simple language.Though, I think that younger readers would enjoy the book much more.
The book has left me wondering about The Prince Imposter.....I hope to see him in the next book. Yes, I'm planning to read the next book soon.
September 19, 2016
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2016/09/1...
Publisher: Indigo
Publishing Date: December 2015
ISBN: 9780692539880
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 2.4/5
Publishers Description: Fifteen-year-old Michelle saves the world on a daily basis…with her trusty video game controller, of course! Naturally, she jumps at the chance to play an experimental virtual reality game. The beautiful fantasy world of Starrs? Check. The power to mold matter? Check. No reset button? Wait, she didn’t sign up for this! Turns out Starrs is really real, and to make matters worse, Michelle’s interference awakens the Cycle of the Six Moons, a series of devastating trials that will devour the universe.
Review: Cool cover art.
There are mixed reviews on this and most settle on average, 3 stars. This needed a strong editing hand to shake out the schizophrenia. Scenes jump and shift with no rhyme or reason coupled with halting flow that leaves you scratching your head.
So how does a 15 year old gurl, travel to another world and believe that she is in a virtual reality video game for most of it.? Well see, her genius brother made a machine in the garage with hair dryers and batteries and told her it was a VR game. Riiiiight. Well anyhoo, if you haven’t guessed by now Michelle is speshul. So speshul in fact that she is not a princess, or a lady, or a faerie lady princess but a GODDESS able to manipulate matter and get out of all kinds of desperately doomed situations. Neat Deus Ex vehicle, eh?
If you’re 13 years old, then get this book as Michelle is written like she’s 12.
Publisher: Indigo
Publishing Date: December 2015
ISBN: 9780692539880
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 2.4/5
Publishers Description: Fifteen-year-old Michelle saves the world on a daily basis…with her trusty video game controller, of course! Naturally, she jumps at the chance to play an experimental virtual reality game. The beautiful fantasy world of Starrs? Check. The power to mold matter? Check. No reset button? Wait, she didn’t sign up for this! Turns out Starrs is really real, and to make matters worse, Michelle’s interference awakens the Cycle of the Six Moons, a series of devastating trials that will devour the universe.
Review: Cool cover art.
There are mixed reviews on this and most settle on average, 3 stars. This needed a strong editing hand to shake out the schizophrenia. Scenes jump and shift with no rhyme or reason coupled with halting flow that leaves you scratching your head.
So how does a 15 year old gurl, travel to another world and believe that she is in a virtual reality video game for most of it.? Well see, her genius brother made a machine in the garage with hair dryers and batteries and told her it was a VR game. Riiiiight. Well anyhoo, if you haven’t guessed by now Michelle is speshul. So speshul in fact that she is not a princess, or a lady, or a faerie lady princess but a GODDESS able to manipulate matter and get out of all kinds of desperately doomed situations. Neat Deus Ex vehicle, eh?
If you’re 13 years old, then get this book as Michelle is written like she’s 12.
November 5, 2016
I'm rating this a 3.5, but I rounded this up because Starrs is so awesome and I just love the place! I can practically see all the effort you put into building Starrs and making it a distinct and realistic place. (Or as "realistic as it can be, considering that it's a magical land.)
For the plot, there was nothing much to me. It's just mostly discovering the place. There was no central plot to it. I feel like this first book is for us to get a feel of Starrs and what it contains. And I definitely like Starrs. But still, it was full of action and adventure, and I liked the book.
Now, I didn't like Michelle in the first part of the book. She was so annoying, childish, and selfish, and immature. But then her responsibilities as Goddess made her grow up, and eventually, I was able to like her character. As for Gediyon and Jaysonn, I don't know what to think of them. I like them and their personalities, and I wonder who Michelle would end up with. Then there's also the "Prince Impostor," which I'm pretty sure is Jayse's little brother who supposedly died. Or maybe it's something more morbid, like the Taesmal king controlling his body.
Now one problem I have for this is that there are things left out. I think that it's deliberate, that's it's a way of showing Michelle's personality that she doesn't care much on what they say because this didn't happen anymore in the last part of the book.
All in all, I loved this book, especially the world-building that was done. I loved the characters. All of them. The thank you gift was touching. I can't wait to read the next book as there were a lot of open ends in this one.
For the plot, there was nothing much to me. It's just mostly discovering the place. There was no central plot to it. I feel like this first book is for us to get a feel of Starrs and what it contains. And I definitely like Starrs. But still, it was full of action and adventure, and I liked the book.
Now, I didn't like Michelle in the first part of the book. She was so annoying, childish, and selfish, and immature. But then her responsibilities as Goddess made her grow up, and eventually, I was able to like her character. As for Gediyon and Jaysonn, I don't know what to think of them. I like them and their personalities, and I wonder who Michelle would end up with. Then there's also the "Prince Impostor," which I'm pretty sure is Jayse's little brother who supposedly died. Or maybe it's something more morbid, like the Taesmal king controlling his body.
Now one problem I have for this is that there are things left out. I think that it's deliberate, that's it's a way of showing Michelle's personality that she doesn't care much on what they say because this didn't happen anymore in the last part of the book.
All in all, I loved this book, especially the world-building that was done. I loved the characters. All of them. The thank you gift was touching. I can't wait to read the next book as there were a lot of open ends in this one.
December 29, 2015
I'd like to start by saying I never actually finished this book so I admit it might have a great story or whatever but OMG I could not get passed the fact this book feels like it was written by a 10 year old in English class.
I was really excited to read this book as an avid video gamer and lover of fantasy stories, however I was seriously disappointed.
There is zero character development. There is zero description about surroundings or the environment. The sentences and paragraphs are so disjointed, with the word 'I' being used every 3rd word it was so hard to fall into the flow of the story.
Furthermore, the main character is insufferable. With the way she acts and speaks, both as the narrator and in speech, she comes across as a hyperactive 5 year old girl that you really just want to get away from you and leave you alone.
Overall, like I said at the beginning, I didn't finish the book so if you are able to get passed the fact that the main character is incredibly annoying and the whole thing has been written by a juvenile then maybe it has an awesome story.
I was really excited to read this book as an avid video gamer and lover of fantasy stories, however I was seriously disappointed.
There is zero character development. There is zero description about surroundings or the environment. The sentences and paragraphs are so disjointed, with the word 'I' being used every 3rd word it was so hard to fall into the flow of the story.
Furthermore, the main character is insufferable. With the way she acts and speaks, both as the narrator and in speech, she comes across as a hyperactive 5 year old girl that you really just want to get away from you and leave you alone.
Overall, like I said at the beginning, I didn't finish the book so if you are able to get passed the fact that the main character is incredibly annoying and the whole thing has been written by a juvenile then maybe it has an awesome story.
November 12, 2016
I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Adelle Yeung for the opportunity to read your book. This was not my type of read. I thought the story had an interesting premise and it had the potential to be something really great. However, the story was good, but I could not understand the main character in this book. She annoyed me at times and I was frustrated with some of her actions. Also, the book tend to drag for me because it was long and it was a bit confusing as well. I hope the second book is better. Overall, an okay.
Thank you Adelle Yeung for the opportunity to read your book. This was not my type of read. I thought the story had an interesting premise and it had the potential to be something really great. However, the story was good, but I could not understand the main character in this book. She annoyed me at times and I was frustrated with some of her actions. Also, the book tend to drag for me because it was long and it was a bit confusing as well. I hope the second book is better. Overall, an okay.
December 31, 2016
/ I was given a free copy to give an honest review on the content I read. Thanks, Ms. Yeung! /
This book was all fun and games. Full of adventure and quirkiness, nothing too worrying really came up.
It was a bit too slow paced for me, but all of the characters were likeable. Especially Michelle with her general uniqueness.
This will seem random, but I love open world adventure games, which is what this book kind of made me feel. Not like Fallout or Skyrim, but maybe Minecraft on Peaceful with the ability to create whatever you want without much to hinder you. Michelle's conflicts felt like they resolved far too quickly, there was too much talking, and in all honesty, it got kind of boring. However, there are so many unanswered questions that I just know the next book will be so much more interesting. So don't judge it heavily off my review. You'll definitely like how funny it is, because I sure as heck did. I'm hoping Book Two will grab and hold my attention more, though.
This book was all fun and games. Full of adventure and quirkiness, nothing too worrying really came up.
It was a bit too slow paced for me, but all of the characters were likeable. Especially Michelle with her general uniqueness.
This will seem random, but I love open world adventure games, which is what this book kind of made me feel. Not like Fallout or Skyrim, but maybe Minecraft on Peaceful with the ability to create whatever you want without much to hinder you. Michelle's conflicts felt like they resolved far too quickly, there was too much talking, and in all honesty, it got kind of boring. However, there are so many unanswered questions that I just know the next book will be so much more interesting. So don't judge it heavily off my review. You'll definitely like how funny it is, because I sure as heck did. I'm hoping Book Two will grab and hold my attention more, though.
February 25, 2016
Check out my original review on my blog: Readiculously Peachy
My Review:
I received a copy through the YA Bound Book Tour to read and review in return.
The Starriest Summer was a fantastic and fun book to read. I would say that this book is especially directed to teen/young adult readers, but the story has such a beautiful world build up, interesting characters and concepts, I think any reader would be intrigued!
The story starts off with no interruptions, where we get to know our young hero and protagonist, named Michelle. She is slightly self-conscious and still a young teenager, who considers herself to be that typical standard nerd type. She loves playing video games and through each level succeeds in saving the damsel in distress or even... the world! But it's just a game, right?
When her parents selfishly decide to leave together on a exotic vacation, leaving Michelle behind, stuck with her mad-science-crazy brother Aaron, she realizes her brother is once again up to no good. Kitchen appliances go missing and she knows immediately that her science obsessed brother is building something very peculiar in their garage. When she abruptly runs into him, he hastily shows her his new invention which is suppose to be something like a virtual reality game. Without a second word, Michelle is pushed into the machine's the chair...
I hear him stumble over something and continue, “I hope I’m doing the right thing.” Aaron gasps. “No time to waste! Gotta do it now—can’t regret this!”
“Aaron?”
“I love you, Michelle.” Now might be the time to panic.
He says, “Departing at 11:58 AM.”
There’s a strange feeling in my chest, as if my insides are emitting as much light as the lamps, and then —Nothing
What happens after this, I absolutely do not want to reveal, because you should definitely read this book yourself and find out. But I can definitely reveal that Michelle literally falls into a world full of fantastical creatures, mysterious and cunning characters and oh yeah, she is basically The Goddess of this unbelievable world! She is meant to save this new world, and Michelle goes along with everything nonchalantly, confident that this is just a high-tech mysterious game built by her amazingly talented brother. But the stranger things start to get and the more she realizes that everything seems so real and that she can't even save her game, she starts to doubt everything and starts to rethink her role and purpose in this scary but magnificent world.
The world build up done by Ms. Yeung, is absolutely stunning! She thinks of everything, to the air, water, plants, buildings and then some! I felt like her world build up and character creation was inspired by a mix between "The Wizard of Oz" and a tiny bit of "Harry Potter", but there was also so much originality to it. I was able to imagine everything in my head, and boy it looked, tasted and felt BEAUTIFUL!
Ms. Yeung added some fantastic, crazy, spooky and evil characters to her story. They all had their own persona which oozed loads of personality and mostly some fun sarcastic humor. Some characters left the story as quick as they were introduced, like the handsome and mysterious Prince Imposter, the sexy robot named Dreana and her abnormally strong side kick named Wolf, but I have a sneaky suspicion that we haven't seen the last of them just yet!!
I can't wait to read the sequels, they need to come out like right now! Once you have read the book, please hop over to Adelle Yeung's website. Here you will find amazingly accurate drawings of some of the scenes which come forth in the book.
Journey along with Michelle into a wondrous and bewildering world, with so many highs, twists and turns it'll make you want to come back for more. Kings and Queens, handsome princes and mentors, strange magicians and malicious creatures— this story has it all, and I'll be anxiously waiting for the next installment to come out!
My Review:
I received a copy through the YA Bound Book Tour to read and review in return.
The Starriest Summer was a fantastic and fun book to read. I would say that this book is especially directed to teen/young adult readers, but the story has such a beautiful world build up, interesting characters and concepts, I think any reader would be intrigued!
The story starts off with no interruptions, where we get to know our young hero and protagonist, named Michelle. She is slightly self-conscious and still a young teenager, who considers herself to be that typical standard nerd type. She loves playing video games and through each level succeeds in saving the damsel in distress or even... the world! But it's just a game, right?
When her parents selfishly decide to leave together on a exotic vacation, leaving Michelle behind, stuck with her mad-science-crazy brother Aaron, she realizes her brother is once again up to no good. Kitchen appliances go missing and she knows immediately that her science obsessed brother is building something very peculiar in their garage. When she abruptly runs into him, he hastily shows her his new invention which is suppose to be something like a virtual reality game. Without a second word, Michelle is pushed into the machine's the chair...
I hear him stumble over something and continue, “I hope I’m doing the right thing.” Aaron gasps. “No time to waste! Gotta do it now—can’t regret this!”“Aaron?”
“I love you, Michelle.” Now might be the time to panic.
He says, “Departing at 11:58 AM.”
There’s a strange feeling in my chest, as if my insides are emitting as much light as the lamps, and then —Nothing
What happens after this, I absolutely do not want to reveal, because you should definitely read this book yourself and find out. But I can definitely reveal that Michelle literally falls into a world full of fantastical creatures, mysterious and cunning characters and oh yeah, she is basically The Goddess of this unbelievable world! She is meant to save this new world, and Michelle goes along with everything nonchalantly, confident that this is just a high-tech mysterious game built by her amazingly talented brother. But the stranger things start to get and the more she realizes that everything seems so real and that she can't even save her game, she starts to doubt everything and starts to rethink her role and purpose in this scary but magnificent world.
The world build up done by Ms. Yeung, is absolutely stunning! She thinks of everything, to the air, water, plants, buildings and then some! I felt like her world build up and character creation was inspired by a mix between "The Wizard of Oz" and a tiny bit of "Harry Potter", but there was also so much originality to it. I was able to imagine everything in my head, and boy it looked, tasted and felt BEAUTIFUL!
Ms. Yeung added some fantastic, crazy, spooky and evil characters to her story. They all had their own persona which oozed loads of personality and mostly some fun sarcastic humor. Some characters left the story as quick as they were introduced, like the handsome and mysterious Prince Imposter, the sexy robot named Dreana and her abnormally strong side kick named Wolf, but I have a sneaky suspicion that we haven't seen the last of them just yet!!
I can't wait to read the sequels, they need to come out like right now! Once you have read the book, please hop over to Adelle Yeung's website. Here you will find amazingly accurate drawings of some of the scenes which come forth in the book.
Journey along with Michelle into a wondrous and bewildering world, with so many highs, twists and turns it'll make you want to come back for more. Kings and Queens, handsome princes and mentors, strange magicians and malicious creatures— this story has it all, and I'll be anxiously waiting for the next installment to come out!
October 31, 2016
(I received a copy from the author, In exchange for an honest review.)
The main character in this annoyed me quite a lot of times, so I can't say I really liked her.
This wasn't a bad read, but it struggled to keep my interest unfortunately. The whole thing started to feel rather long after about 30% of it too, which didn't help.
Overall, Not bad, but it dragged a bit for me.
The main character in this annoyed me quite a lot of times, so I can't say I really liked her.
This wasn't a bad read, but it struggled to keep my interest unfortunately. The whole thing started to feel rather long after about 30% of it too, which didn't help.
Overall, Not bad, but it dragged a bit for me.
April 29, 2020
I can’t do it. I’ve started this book 4 times in about 3 years hoping each time will be better than the last. I’ve given it about 1/3 of the book and it’s not getting any better! So I give up. It’s poorly written. You can’t keep track of anything. The characters are horribly developed, if at all. Sorry. Not worth the time.
April 30, 2020
OMG READ IT. ITS SO AMAZING AND FUNNY. Michelle's kinda irritating, but I swear it gets better. There is a prince, he is hot, and he's freaking amazing. If you stay for nothing else, stay for the prince. <3
April 29, 2016
Overall, I liked this book. The concept was reasonably well executed, focusing mainly on the fantasy world aspect rather than the video game aspect. Even if she seemed juvenile in her flippancy at the beginning, I didn't find Michelle to be annoying, and her maturity level does develop as the story goes on.
I think the main strengths of this book are its writing style and worldbuilding. The writing style has enough description that it draws me into the scene without getting bogged down in minute details. The world is also pretty rich and full of varied sensory details that makes it come alive in the reader's head. It makes you care about the world that Michelle is trying to save.
There is actually aren't really any major female side characters that the protagonist interacts with, though it's not that much of a problem since the male characters are charming and distinctive in their own right. There are other female characters the protagonist has relationships with, but their relationships are not as prominent as those with the males. There was a female side character briefly introduced that breaks this up a bit, but the encounter is fleeting and not enough to have a big impact on the character dynamics for me to call her a major influence. I am aware that this character appears in future books much more prominently, and I look forward to seeing her and other female relationships developed.
For pacing, I felt the book is strongest at the beginning and at the latter half, setting up its premise quickly and with energy. The latter half shows her learning how she can use her powers for the greater good, and that part kept my attention despite not being full of action or explosions, figuratively speaking, and that's a very good thing. I felt that the middle lagged slightly when introducing the world and how the protagonist relates to it; certainly it's well done, but I felt like it could have moved a little faster and gotten the same effect.
In terms of the overall plot, it's clear that it's the first book in a series; while an event happens that bookends the book, it is by no means conclusive and seems less an ending than another beginning. Of course I'm sure that was entirely the point, so I would just inform readers not to expect a standalone story that wraps itself up within the first book.
So would I recommend this book? Yes, particularly if you enjoy endearing teenagers interacting in a fantasy setting as well as an independent young female doing her best to navigate a strange world with even stranger powers. Note, Michelle is in a very privileged position by design (called "Goddess" of their world), so if you prefer more gritty, hard edged world viewpoints, this book may not be for you. But take a look at the latter half of the book before deciding whether to read it based the first half, is my suggestion for the reasons stated above. I look forward to an opportunity to read the next books in the series!
I think the main strengths of this book are its writing style and worldbuilding. The writing style has enough description that it draws me into the scene without getting bogged down in minute details. The world is also pretty rich and full of varied sensory details that makes it come alive in the reader's head. It makes you care about the world that Michelle is trying to save.
There is actually aren't really any major female side characters that the protagonist interacts with, though it's not that much of a problem since the male characters are charming and distinctive in their own right. There are other female characters the protagonist has relationships with, but their relationships are not as prominent as those with the males. There was a female side character briefly introduced that breaks this up a bit, but the encounter is fleeting and not enough to have a big impact on the character dynamics for me to call her a major influence. I am aware that this character appears in future books much more prominently, and I look forward to seeing her and other female relationships developed.
For pacing, I felt the book is strongest at the beginning and at the latter half, setting up its premise quickly and with energy. The latter half shows her learning how she can use her powers for the greater good, and that part kept my attention despite not being full of action or explosions, figuratively speaking, and that's a very good thing. I felt that the middle lagged slightly when introducing the world and how the protagonist relates to it; certainly it's well done, but I felt like it could have moved a little faster and gotten the same effect.
In terms of the overall plot, it's clear that it's the first book in a series; while an event happens that bookends the book, it is by no means conclusive and seems less an ending than another beginning. Of course I'm sure that was entirely the point, so I would just inform readers not to expect a standalone story that wraps itself up within the first book.
So would I recommend this book? Yes, particularly if you enjoy endearing teenagers interacting in a fantasy setting as well as an independent young female doing her best to navigate a strange world with even stranger powers. Note, Michelle is in a very privileged position by design (called "Goddess" of their world), so if you prefer more gritty, hard edged world viewpoints, this book may not be for you. But take a look at the latter half of the book before deciding whether to read it based the first half, is my suggestion for the reasons stated above. I look forward to an opportunity to read the next books in the series!
August 24, 2016
"The Starriest Summer" is the story of a young girl (fifteen years old to be exact) who loves video games and eventually gets sucked into one. The meat of the story is her navigating through the 'virtual reality' in an adventure that often reminded me of 'missions' or 'quests' that you would actually be assigned to in a video game.
Oh yeah, she also meets a ton of 'hot' guys along the way.
I make special mention of that because she calls nearly everyone hot....even to their face. I face-palmed at this quite often because it occurred so often.
To start, this book is seriously on the young side of Young Adult fiction. I don't mind reading a well written, character driven YA book, but if the voice of the character is too immature, I simply cannot connect well with said character. Michelle is unfortunately a character that I could not seem to enjoy reading. While she is tough, she is goofy, she is brave...her voice is painfully immature to me. Her voice will be fine for younger readers, they will connect much better in my opinion.
In regards to character development, I found myself quite frustrated. For most of the book, I felt like Michelle was the only character that actually had some sort of personality. So many of the characters were blah to me, aside from the fact that they were described as super hot. The first guy we really meet is Gedyion and I found him to be simply too perfect. As in, sickeningly sweet and spoke in an almost scripted fashion. In other words...he was sort of boring to me. The same goes for the Prince in the story...I felt like it was almost a cookie cutter personality being used with some minor tweaks to it.
Another thing to make mention is that there was not a serious antagonist really built up for more than 50% of the book. There were no characters to loathe or despise or feel anything for. I find this unfortunate. I needed something to pull me in...and nothing really did aside from the unique plot and the creatures of the world. Also, as a video game player, I think it would be cool to get to jump into a fantasy world video game!
All in all, I would recommend this book for younger readers. The story is different, the world building is decent...but I felt that the depth was definitely lacking for older, more mature readers. This book is advertised as YA, but I would say it may not even be suitable for older readers who enjoy YA books.
I received a free edition of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Oh yeah, she also meets a ton of 'hot' guys along the way.
I make special mention of that because she calls nearly everyone hot....even to their face. I face-palmed at this quite often because it occurred so often.
To start, this book is seriously on the young side of Young Adult fiction. I don't mind reading a well written, character driven YA book, but if the voice of the character is too immature, I simply cannot connect well with said character. Michelle is unfortunately a character that I could not seem to enjoy reading. While she is tough, she is goofy, she is brave...her voice is painfully immature to me. Her voice will be fine for younger readers, they will connect much better in my opinion.
In regards to character development, I found myself quite frustrated. For most of the book, I felt like Michelle was the only character that actually had some sort of personality. So many of the characters were blah to me, aside from the fact that they were described as super hot. The first guy we really meet is Gedyion and I found him to be simply too perfect. As in, sickeningly sweet and spoke in an almost scripted fashion. In other words...he was sort of boring to me. The same goes for the Prince in the story...I felt like it was almost a cookie cutter personality being used with some minor tweaks to it.
Another thing to make mention is that there was not a serious antagonist really built up for more than 50% of the book. There were no characters to loathe or despise or feel anything for. I find this unfortunate. I needed something to pull me in...and nothing really did aside from the unique plot and the creatures of the world. Also, as a video game player, I think it would be cool to get to jump into a fantasy world video game!
All in all, I would recommend this book for younger readers. The story is different, the world building is decent...but I felt that the depth was definitely lacking for older, more mature readers. This book is advertised as YA, but I would say it may not even be suitable for older readers who enjoy YA books.
I received a free edition of this book from the Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2016
The Starriest Summer is the first book in the The Cycle of the Six Moons series by Adelle Yeung. Fifteen-year-old Michelle saves the world on a daily basis, with her trusty video game controller, of course! Naturally, she jumps at the chance to play an experimental virtual reality game. The beautiful fantasy world of Starrs? Check. The power to mold matter? Check. No reset button? Wait, she didn’t sign up for this! Turns out Starrs is really real, and to make matters worse, Michelle’s interference awakens the Cycle of the Six Moons, a series of devastating trials that will devour the universe. Fighting the apocalypse was way easier when danger stayed on the other side of the screen, but Michelle finds a secret weapon in her new-found powers. She uses them to rescue the crown prince of a powerful magic kingdom from their sworn enemies, a technologically-advanced cult that strives to eradicate magical blood. Michelle starts to fall for Prince Jayse, the only one who believes Michelle to be a savior rather than a curse.
The Starriest Summer is a quick moving adventure that had me eager to discover where the story and Michelle are going next. When Michelle heads into the video game she thinks it is just a new virtual reality game. However, if she listened to her brother's warning she might have known it was much more than it seemed. I enjoyed the world building, and the fact that our main character is discovering the lore and environment right along with the reader. While sometimes she proves to be a little slower on the uptake that I hope I would be, her flaws make her more realistic than a character that gets everything right the first go round. Her exploration of the world, discovery and introduction of characters, and the build up of a story that promises deception and danger underlying everything only begins here. I was glad that Yeung did not try to cram everything in one book, because there seems to be so much more to tell. I like that the story was complete enough to leave me with a full story, but wanting to know so much more. It was a nearly perfect balance. I found the world and characters to be rich and complex, and even after reading the complete book I still have questions about the Cycle, politics, and royal family that I hope will be addressed in the books to follow. I really want more of the history behind the stories that I feel have missing pieces, but I will just have to wait.
The Starriest Summer is a great start to a new series, and appealed to me on several levels. I think gamers and fantasy fans alike will enjoy this book, and the series to follow. I know I did.
The Starriest Summer is a quick moving adventure that had me eager to discover where the story and Michelle are going next. When Michelle heads into the video game she thinks it is just a new virtual reality game. However, if she listened to her brother's warning she might have known it was much more than it seemed. I enjoyed the world building, and the fact that our main character is discovering the lore and environment right along with the reader. While sometimes she proves to be a little slower on the uptake that I hope I would be, her flaws make her more realistic than a character that gets everything right the first go round. Her exploration of the world, discovery and introduction of characters, and the build up of a story that promises deception and danger underlying everything only begins here. I was glad that Yeung did not try to cram everything in one book, because there seems to be so much more to tell. I like that the story was complete enough to leave me with a full story, but wanting to know so much more. It was a nearly perfect balance. I found the world and characters to be rich and complex, and even after reading the complete book I still have questions about the Cycle, politics, and royal family that I hope will be addressed in the books to follow. I really want more of the history behind the stories that I feel have missing pieces, but I will just have to wait.
The Starriest Summer is a great start to a new series, and appealed to me on several levels. I think gamers and fantasy fans alike will enjoy this book, and the series to follow. I know I did.
May 22, 2016
An Adventure to Strive For
I've been a fan of Adelle's voice acting work for sooooo many years that I can't even recall when they began, and when I learned that she was working on a book series, I knew I needed to get invested right away. I also happen to be a fan of RPG's, which added to the charm of knowing I was in for a whimsical adventure. Anyways, on to the review!
The setting of Starrs seems as though it has a touch of a Final Fantasy blend, the atmosphere is so broad and descriptive that I felt as though I could walk along the forests for myself, pop the bubbles, and smell the spices lingering in the air. I especially love the description of Arrisycal, the home world of the story, as the kingdom seemed full of life in my imagination. There was not a single world I couldn't picture, which in a story of this genre for me, is rare.
On to the characters. I feel invested in Michelle, our young and precocious heroine. She has stepped into an unknown world and immediately takes up the mantle of Goddess, and despite her age and her experience, I think that she handles herself well. Jaysonn, the young prince, is unlike many typical characters of his archetype, not only for his skill, but because of his understanding of the world. He isn't sheltered, but he also isn't without rebellion. It's a fine balance. Launce and Nichols are fun comic relief characters more in line of supporting cast members, and even they carry a purpose heavy to Michelle's crusade. But my overall favorite so far has to be Gediyon. The moment that he stepped into the story, I idolized his sophistication, and his nature is bountiful--he is serene like water, free-spirited like the wind, but I feel as though in a later story... He can become unpredictable and almost inhumane, depending on what his past may hold.
Now, my flaws. They mostly stem from Michelle herself, her behavior and how she truly does handle some situations, while others she can easily create her way out. It's akin to her title--Goddess hacking, in a way. I feel as though it should have taken a bout more time for her to come into her own with her powers, but this is only book one, after all. I also have the urge to want to understand more about how the war began in Saei's time, and more of her history, as well as how Aaron, Michelle's brother came to learn about Starrs and how Michelle was connected.
That said, I can't wait to start An Eclipsing Autumn!
I've been a fan of Adelle's voice acting work for sooooo many years that I can't even recall when they began, and when I learned that she was working on a book series, I knew I needed to get invested right away. I also happen to be a fan of RPG's, which added to the charm of knowing I was in for a whimsical adventure. Anyways, on to the review!
The setting of Starrs seems as though it has a touch of a Final Fantasy blend, the atmosphere is so broad and descriptive that I felt as though I could walk along the forests for myself, pop the bubbles, and smell the spices lingering in the air. I especially love the description of Arrisycal, the home world of the story, as the kingdom seemed full of life in my imagination. There was not a single world I couldn't picture, which in a story of this genre for me, is rare.
On to the characters. I feel invested in Michelle, our young and precocious heroine. She has stepped into an unknown world and immediately takes up the mantle of Goddess, and despite her age and her experience, I think that she handles herself well. Jaysonn, the young prince, is unlike many typical characters of his archetype, not only for his skill, but because of his understanding of the world. He isn't sheltered, but he also isn't without rebellion. It's a fine balance. Launce and Nichols are fun comic relief characters more in line of supporting cast members, and even they carry a purpose heavy to Michelle's crusade. But my overall favorite so far has to be Gediyon. The moment that he stepped into the story, I idolized his sophistication, and his nature is bountiful--he is serene like water, free-spirited like the wind, but I feel as though in a later story... He can become unpredictable and almost inhumane, depending on what his past may hold.
Now, my flaws. They mostly stem from Michelle herself, her behavior and how she truly does handle some situations, while others she can easily create her way out. It's akin to her title--Goddess hacking, in a way. I feel as though it should have taken a bout more time for her to come into her own with her powers, but this is only book one, after all. I also have the urge to want to understand more about how the war began in Saei's time, and more of her history, as well as how Aaron, Michelle's brother came to learn about Starrs and how Michelle was connected.
That said, I can't wait to start An Eclipsing Autumn!
February 18, 2017
I sometimes have a hard time reading books if they don't catch my attention and keep it. That being said I had no trouble reading this book! It was funny, interesting, and detailed enough I could imagine the unique world the main character was swept into. I found the main character relatable to my 15 year old self and had some good laughs at her adventure. I found myself carving extra time out of my day to read an extra chapter and I enjoyed book one so much that I immediately couldn't wait to start book two!
November 14, 2016
Many thanks to Adelle Yeung, who provided me a free digital copy of The Starriest Summer for an honest review!
The Starriest Summer is the first installment of The Cycle of the Six Moons and follows the adventures of Michelle, a fifteen year-old girl. The readers are firstly introduced to Michelle's brother, who she assumes has built a virtual reality video game. Michelle journeys into this virtual video game, where she is assumed to be a Goddess. As the story moves along, Michelle comes to realize that the video game is in fact an alternate reality and not a game at all and that she plays a key part in saving it from destruction caused by the Cycle of the Six Moons.
The Starriest Summer is a fun and adventurous read. It's a different concept, and the author does a decent job building her world. I enjoyed the positive nature of its characters and the never-ending action. Secondary characters, like Gidyeon and Jayse, were also delightful and sage additions to the main ensemble. However, though it has its merits, the world is not entirely unique of its own or completely explained. Readers may recognize elements from existing popular culture (specifically, for me, it reminded me a lot of Fushigi Yuugi) and find themselves still slightly confused by the premise of the Cycle of the Six Moons more than half-way through the novel.
I would say that the main reason this book was not entirely engaging for me was the voice of Michelle. I found her character to be erratic and rash, traits which are reflected in the pace of the plot. Michelle does what she does without very much forethought, and she doesn't grow very much throughout the novel. However, because of her vernacular and tendency to react, her voice might appeal to younger audiences who may be interested in fantasy and want to read an adventure and less so about a young girl.
Overall, I rated the novel a 3 stars. Thank you, again, Adelle, for the opportunity!
The Starriest Summer is the first installment of The Cycle of the Six Moons and follows the adventures of Michelle, a fifteen year-old girl. The readers are firstly introduced to Michelle's brother, who she assumes has built a virtual reality video game. Michelle journeys into this virtual video game, where she is assumed to be a Goddess. As the story moves along, Michelle comes to realize that the video game is in fact an alternate reality and not a game at all and that she plays a key part in saving it from destruction caused by the Cycle of the Six Moons.
The Starriest Summer is a fun and adventurous read. It's a different concept, and the author does a decent job building her world. I enjoyed the positive nature of its characters and the never-ending action. Secondary characters, like Gidyeon and Jayse, were also delightful and sage additions to the main ensemble. However, though it has its merits, the world is not entirely unique of its own or completely explained. Readers may recognize elements from existing popular culture (specifically, for me, it reminded me a lot of Fushigi Yuugi) and find themselves still slightly confused by the premise of the Cycle of the Six Moons more than half-way through the novel.
I would say that the main reason this book was not entirely engaging for me was the voice of Michelle. I found her character to be erratic and rash, traits which are reflected in the pace of the plot. Michelle does what she does without very much forethought, and she doesn't grow very much throughout the novel. However, because of her vernacular and tendency to react, her voice might appeal to younger audiences who may be interested in fantasy and want to read an adventure and less so about a young girl.
Overall, I rated the novel a 3 stars. Thank you, again, Adelle, for the opportunity!
December 14, 2015
Original review at Whatever You Can Still Betray.
I love my video games; and like with the books I read, I want to delve into them and be a part of that world and its adventures. However, like Michelle's brother, I don't think I'd last long in a harsh environment unless I am a Mary Sue and apparently know kung fu.
I was expecting a video game and a storytelling along the lines of Dragon Age - all serious and majestic with twists and turns that would make me hold me breath and a lot of ambiguous decisions to make like that in Dragon Age.
The Starriest Summer was not really as downright downtrodden as Dragon Age but it doesn't mean that it was not good. I liked it. I enjoyed reading it very much. If I'm going to compare this with any game, I would perhaps liken it to Aveyond.
I couldn't connect with the main character at first. I thought She's so childish. But I remembered that she was only fifteen and loves video games. I think I would've reacted as she did, too. And I really liked her happy attitude. There were times when she was overwhelmed by it all but I understood her predicament: she's fifteen, she's from another world and the fate of an entire world rests on her shoulders. But she bounces back every time. I liked it. A Mary-Sue though.
Notes:
*Guesses: Gediyon is a Taesmal. The Prince Impostor is either Jayse's brother or Prince Aloyin's son.
*And I liked the Prince Impostor very much. XDD
*There's something about trekking through a desert that brings it home to you that 1)You're in an adventure, 2)You're far away from home/in another world, and 3)You're in deep shit.
I love my video games; and like with the books I read, I want to delve into them and be a part of that world and its adventures. However, like Michelle's brother, I don't think I'd last long in a harsh environment unless I am a Mary Sue and apparently know kung fu.
I was expecting a video game and a storytelling along the lines of Dragon Age - all serious and majestic with twists and turns that would make me hold me breath and a lot of ambiguous decisions to make like that in Dragon Age.
The Starriest Summer was not really as downright downtrodden as Dragon Age but it doesn't mean that it was not good. I liked it. I enjoyed reading it very much. If I'm going to compare this with any game, I would perhaps liken it to Aveyond.
I couldn't connect with the main character at first. I thought She's so childish. But I remembered that she was only fifteen and loves video games. I think I would've reacted as she did, too. And I really liked her happy attitude. There were times when she was overwhelmed by it all but I understood her predicament: she's fifteen, she's from another world and the fate of an entire world rests on her shoulders. But she bounces back every time. I liked it. A Mary-Sue though.
Notes:
*Guesses: Gediyon is a Taesmal. The Prince Impostor is either Jayse's brother or Prince Aloyin's son.
*And I liked the Prince Impostor very much. XDD
*There's something about trekking through a desert that brings it home to you that 1)You're in an adventure, 2)You're far away from home/in another world, and 3)You're in deep shit.
December 1, 2015
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reading copy of this book and boy am I glad I got to read it. Full review to come soon, though I will say for now that it was a fun read and I very much enjoyed this book. It has fantasy, adventure, a quest, and a world full of magic. What's not to love.
Now that this fun read is available here is my full review:
This book is not the typical kind of fantasy I’m used to reading so I will admit, it did take me a few chapters to really get into it. But the more I read, the more I found myself really enjoying this book, as the story unfolded. The fantasy world in which Adelle Yeung creates is well thought out and detailed, thus making it believable. I also thought her portrayal of Michelle, as a fifteen year old was pretty spot on in the way in which she behaves and thinks.
The story begins with Michelle excitedly wanting to play a virtual reality game her older brother creates in their garage while their parents are away. Her excitement soon turns to confusion and fear however, when she realizes her brother’s invention is not a game at all, but a trans-dimensional device that’s left her stranded on another world full of magic and adventure. Here, Michelle must accept the truth in who she really is, learn to use her own newfound abilities, rescue a prince, and save the universe before all the worlds, including her own, are destroyed, now that the cycles have began.
All in all, this was a good read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy magic, adventure, and interesting characters right from the start. Looking forward to the sequel and delving deeper into the world of Starrs and all the mysteries it holds.
Now that this fun read is available here is my full review:
This book is not the typical kind of fantasy I’m used to reading so I will admit, it did take me a few chapters to really get into it. But the more I read, the more I found myself really enjoying this book, as the story unfolded. The fantasy world in which Adelle Yeung creates is well thought out and detailed, thus making it believable. I also thought her portrayal of Michelle, as a fifteen year old was pretty spot on in the way in which she behaves and thinks.
The story begins with Michelle excitedly wanting to play a virtual reality game her older brother creates in their garage while their parents are away. Her excitement soon turns to confusion and fear however, when she realizes her brother’s invention is not a game at all, but a trans-dimensional device that’s left her stranded on another world full of magic and adventure. Here, Michelle must accept the truth in who she really is, learn to use her own newfound abilities, rescue a prince, and save the universe before all the worlds, including her own, are destroyed, now that the cycles have began.
All in all, this was a good read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys fantasy magic, adventure, and interesting characters right from the start. Looking forward to the sequel and delving deeper into the world of Starrs and all the mysteries it holds.
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