What do you think?
Rate this book
Princess Madeline #2
The Battle for Princess Madeline
The Kingdom of Soron bustled with activity as preparations for the Fall Festival began. Lively merchants, hardworking farmers, and musicians eagerly awaited this event of harvest and joy. This year’s festival was even more important, as they celebrated Princess Madeline’s betrothal to her Knight Champion, Daniel. Celebration quickly turns to disaster as Prince Paulsen returns with curious demands, either Princess Madeline will be his, or no ones. Rejection turns to obsession and battle is declared.In a tense struggle to decide her future, Princess Madeline must choose where to put her trust… in the king’s tried and true plan, the wizard’s cryptic messages and maps, or her own sense of bravery. Follow Princess Madeline as she battles evil in an attempt to create a future of love and magic.
120 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2013
2 people are currently reading
856 people want to read
About the author
Kirstin Pulioff
13 books820 followersKirstin Pulioff is a storyteller at heart. Born and raised in Southern California, she moved to the Pacific Northwest to follow her dreams and graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Forest Management. Happily married and a mother of two, she lives in Oregon, and enjoys being a stay at home mom. When she’s not writing, she is busy with her kids, church and the family business.
I would love to connect with you at:
www.facebook.com/kirstinpulioffauthor
https://twitter.com/kirstinpulioff
http://www.amazon.com/Kirstin-Pulioff...
I am also the Young Adult & Children's Literature moderator for the Modern Good Reads group. Join in our discussion of great books, and great recommendations. Hope to see you there http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/9...
I would love to connect with you at:
www.facebook.com/kirstinpulioffauthor
https://twitter.com/kirstinpulioff
http://www.amazon.com/Kirstin-Pulioff...
I am also the Young Adult & Children's Literature moderator for the Modern Good Reads group. Join in our discussion of great books, and great recommendations. Hope to see you there http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/9...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 20, 2013
Princess and knight, dragons and wizards, battles and danger—another intriguing story about the courageous Princess Madeline and her new adventures!
A few months ago, I had the privilege to read The Escape of Princess Madeline by Kirstin Pulioff. Her first book was full of the delightful dreams of a young inexperienced princess searching for happiness and love. Since that time, Madeline has grown into a confident young woman ready to take destiny into her own hands. In this second book, The Battle for Princess Madeline, she has become a fearless warrior, fighting for her love, kingdom, and freedom. This is a thrilling story, full of delightful characters, tender moments, and glorious victories. The mysterious scenes revealing the influence of wizards and dragons take readers to an imaginary world filled with magic and superpowers.
The wisdom of the fearless princess will not surprise those who have read the first book. Once again, the daring young princess proves that in order to win, you must fight. Nothing can stop this brave princess. A powerful evil is threatening to destroy her love and her family. This is her life, her battle, her destiny, and she must fight for her love and happiness to protect her people from a dark evil.
The story is well developed and easy to follow. The vivid scenes will transport young readers into the magical world of fairy tales with thrilling characters that have come to life.
Another splendid read for young readers! I can hardly wait for a new book, Princess Madeline and the Dragon.
A few months ago, I had the privilege to read The Escape of Princess Madeline by Kirstin Pulioff. Her first book was full of the delightful dreams of a young inexperienced princess searching for happiness and love. Since that time, Madeline has grown into a confident young woman ready to take destiny into her own hands. In this second book, The Battle for Princess Madeline, she has become a fearless warrior, fighting for her love, kingdom, and freedom. This is a thrilling story, full of delightful characters, tender moments, and glorious victories. The mysterious scenes revealing the influence of wizards and dragons take readers to an imaginary world filled with magic and superpowers.
The wisdom of the fearless princess will not surprise those who have read the first book. Once again, the daring young princess proves that in order to win, you must fight. Nothing can stop this brave princess. A powerful evil is threatening to destroy her love and her family. This is her life, her battle, her destiny, and she must fight for her love and happiness to protect her people from a dark evil.
The story is well developed and easy to follow. The vivid scenes will transport young readers into the magical world of fairy tales with thrilling characters that have come to life.
Another splendid read for young readers! I can hardly wait for a new book, Princess Madeline and the Dragon.
June 7, 2013
The fun continues!! Princess Madeline is back home now and she and her father have made some compromises and are getting along well. She is engaged to Daniel and learning how to be Queen one day. Preparations are under way for the Fall Festival. Prince Paulsen approaches the King and tells him he's come to claim Princess Madeline for his wife. The King reminds him that their deal was that he needed to bring her home safely himself and since he didn't do that, he doesn't get to marry her. Prince Paulsen is angry and decides that he will marry the Princess, and is willing to do whatever he needs to to make sure that happens.
A lot happens in this book. The wizards come back and we learn more about who they are and where Madeline's mother fits in. They aren't welcomed back since they were exiled by the King but Elias has important information for the King so they are allowed to stay. Elias talks of it being the time of the dragons, which is somewhat cryptic. The King gives Princess Madeline land which is beyond Dragon's Gate for her and Daniel to live when they get married. She's excited about that. Prince Paulsen does some horrible things to try to get Princess Madeline to marry him and everyone is needed to fight the battle to keep her safe.
Madeline is still a fun character. She has matured some since her return and, even though she still wants to do things her own way sometimes, she understands that she shouldn't be so rash, but she does still have the tendency to put her own plan into action. She feels terrible when she sees the lengths Prince Paulsen is willing to go to for her and she wants to do what she can to make him stop. I'm still loving her relationship with Daniel and they're so sweet together. She gets along a lot better with her father, too. I like the wizards and look forward to learning even more about them. And, once again, the ending hints at even more to this story and definitely more adventures so I'm excited for the next book! I highly recommend this series to any girl with dreams of being a princess and it's great for the entire family, too!
Mel's Shelves
A lot happens in this book. The wizards come back and we learn more about who they are and where Madeline's mother fits in. They aren't welcomed back since they were exiled by the King but Elias has important information for the King so they are allowed to stay. Elias talks of it being the time of the dragons, which is somewhat cryptic. The King gives Princess Madeline land which is beyond Dragon's Gate for her and Daniel to live when they get married. She's excited about that. Prince Paulsen does some horrible things to try to get Princess Madeline to marry him and everyone is needed to fight the battle to keep her safe.
Madeline is still a fun character. She has matured some since her return and, even though she still wants to do things her own way sometimes, she understands that she shouldn't be so rash, but she does still have the tendency to put her own plan into action. She feels terrible when she sees the lengths Prince Paulsen is willing to go to for her and she wants to do what she can to make him stop. I'm still loving her relationship with Daniel and they're so sweet together. She gets along a lot better with her father, too. I like the wizards and look forward to learning even more about them. And, once again, the ending hints at even more to this story and definitely more adventures so I'm excited for the next book! I highly recommend this series to any girl with dreams of being a princess and it's great for the entire family, too!
Mel's Shelves
August 9, 2013
When I picked up the Battle for Princess Madeline by Kirstin Pulioff I wasn’t sure what to expect. To me, fairytales are best when they are either sweet little stories to tell my three year old or off colour satires.
Scenario number 1: The Disney Love Story
Prince Whathisface needs a wife. Sweet young SoandSo is the adolescent male's ideal: barely nubile at 16 years old, sweetly stupid, gorgeous, etc. and she just happens to be single. HORRORS! SHE MUST FIND A HUSBAND, PRONTO! Before we know it, SoandSo meets Whatshisface and they inexplicably fall in love without mumbling so much as an awkward, “Uh, hi.” Trouble in some way, shape or form ensues, SoandSo is separated from good old Whatshisface, and everything goes sideways until a deus ex machina materializes, solving everything tidily. This frees Whathisface and SoandSo to begin their own Teen Mom reality TV franchise, Medieval style.
Butterflies and rainbows abound.
Scenario Number 2: Cinderella Meets the Sopranos
Yo! Prince Whatshisface needs a wife, already. Blahblahblah alcoholic yaddayaddayadda owes buckets of money. HORRORS! HE MUST FIND A RICH WIFE, PRONTO! SoandSo hates Whatshisname but he won't take no for an answer. He kidnaps her, hoping that Stockholm Syndrome will kick in at some point and she’ll agree to marry him before his loan shark kicks in his kneecaps. When she continues to refuse his proposals, he knocks her out, wrestles her into his carriage and heads to the local drive-through wedding chapel. When she wakes up to hear the guy say over the speaker if anyone has an objection let them speak now or forever hold their peace she lets her fists do the talking – she knocks out Whatshisname's teeth and escapes. SoandSo capitalizes on the notoriety and respect she gets from standing up to Whatshisface to poach manpower from other gangs. Then, she takes over the kingdom's cartels and is forever known as the Godmother.
Cannolis and RICO violations abound.
The Real Story
At first glance, I thought THE BATTLE FOR PRINCESS MADELINE looked like it would kind of/sort of fit into the first category. There certainly weren't any felonies or cannolis mentioned in any of the book reviews I read so I thought it was a pretty safe bet that scenario 2 wasn't a go. The thing was, even though Prince Paulsen needs a wife and Princess Madeline is sweet, gorgeous, and barely nubile at 16 years old, that's where the resemblance to scenario 1 ends. In other words, no one in this book busts out into song and there weren't any schmaltzy romantic montages. (Insert fist pump!) In case you haven’t already guessed, I was pretty damn happy when I realized this book wasn't going to cutesy me into submission.
As someone with a daughter, I shudder to mention it but this book's 16 year old princess is engaged. Initially I was all like, “Ohmahgawd. What kind of a, like, example is that for my kid?” I was tempted to chuck the book and go back to my normal Tuesday activities (drinking myself into a stupor while watching Toddlers & Tiaras) but then my left brain kicked in, reminding me that this was pastoral fantasy so an unmarried woman of 24 would probably be considered an unmarriageable hag and a 16 year old would be prime marriage material.
That dilemma resolved, I dove back in to the book. I quickly discovered that I was (for the second time this summer) in the position of being pleasantly surprised by something I was reading. In particular, I was excited by the quality of Pulioff's writing, not because I didn't think she would be a good writer, but because I (mistakenly) assumed mid grade fiction would require shorter, choppier writing to accommodate the limitations of younger readers. (Whaaat? I talk about booze and Tramped up Toddlers and you don't blink but you get all huffy when I say I thought kids needed simpler writing? Remember, I typically read adult fiction or my daughter's coma-inducing Pinkalicious books, people - I don't exactly have any recent MG experience to draw on.) Instead, this book has a nice flow and there are more than a few moments in this story where young readers will be exposed not only to good writing at a comfortable MG level but good writing at any level. I'm a big believer that the best books have story and flow and this one has both.
One thing that was a bit of a problem for me was that Madeline is presented as an independent and intelligent young woman but she occasionally made some very strange decisions that just don’t seem to jibe with those qualities. The most difficult one for me to deal with was her assumption that her enemy’s scum-of-the-earth lackeys would feel bound by the rules and conventions of the knightly code of chivalry when she offered herself up to them as a hostage/distraction at a pivotal point in the story. Given the riff raff Paulsen had in his army, she should have ended up as a front runner in next year’s Darwin Awards. Luckily for her, in her world there is honour amongst irredeemable psychopaths so she survives - honour unbesmirched - to (presumably) head up a third instalment in this series. In the end, I guess it boils down to this: she's 16 years old. Lucky? Yes. Street smart? Eeeeh...not so much.
Aside from this one minor quibble, I really enjoyed this book. It is definitely written with a mid-grade reader in mind but this adult enjoyed it as a nice, light read. It is also one book in a series I guarantee I will be reading with my daughter when the time comes to introduce her to the mid grade reading level.
I'm giving this book my recommendation and 5 stars.
Scenario number 1: The Disney Love Story
Prince Whathisface needs a wife. Sweet young SoandSo is the adolescent male's ideal: barely nubile at 16 years old, sweetly stupid, gorgeous, etc. and she just happens to be single. HORRORS! SHE MUST FIND A HUSBAND, PRONTO! Before we know it, SoandSo meets Whatshisface and they inexplicably fall in love without mumbling so much as an awkward, “Uh, hi.” Trouble in some way, shape or form ensues, SoandSo is separated from good old Whatshisface, and everything goes sideways until a deus ex machina materializes, solving everything tidily. This frees Whathisface and SoandSo to begin their own Teen Mom reality TV franchise, Medieval style.
Butterflies and rainbows abound.
Scenario Number 2: Cinderella Meets the Sopranos
Yo! Prince Whatshisface needs a wife, already. Blahblahblah alcoholic yaddayaddayadda owes buckets of money. HORRORS! HE MUST FIND A RICH WIFE, PRONTO! SoandSo hates Whatshisname but he won't take no for an answer. He kidnaps her, hoping that Stockholm Syndrome will kick in at some point and she’ll agree to marry him before his loan shark kicks in his kneecaps. When she continues to refuse his proposals, he knocks her out, wrestles her into his carriage and heads to the local drive-through wedding chapel. When she wakes up to hear the guy say over the speaker if anyone has an objection let them speak now or forever hold their peace she lets her fists do the talking – she knocks out Whatshisname's teeth and escapes. SoandSo capitalizes on the notoriety and respect she gets from standing up to Whatshisface to poach manpower from other gangs. Then, she takes over the kingdom's cartels and is forever known as the Godmother.
Cannolis and RICO violations abound.
The Real Story
At first glance, I thought THE BATTLE FOR PRINCESS MADELINE looked like it would kind of/sort of fit into the first category. There certainly weren't any felonies or cannolis mentioned in any of the book reviews I read so I thought it was a pretty safe bet that scenario 2 wasn't a go. The thing was, even though Prince Paulsen needs a wife and Princess Madeline is sweet, gorgeous, and barely nubile at 16 years old, that's where the resemblance to scenario 1 ends. In other words, no one in this book busts out into song and there weren't any schmaltzy romantic montages. (Insert fist pump!) In case you haven’t already guessed, I was pretty damn happy when I realized this book wasn't going to cutesy me into submission.
As someone with a daughter, I shudder to mention it but this book's 16 year old princess is engaged. Initially I was all like, “Ohmahgawd. What kind of a, like, example is that for my kid?” I was tempted to chuck the book and go back to my normal Tuesday activities (drinking myself into a stupor while watching Toddlers & Tiaras) but then my left brain kicked in, reminding me that this was pastoral fantasy so an unmarried woman of 24 would probably be considered an unmarriageable hag and a 16 year old would be prime marriage material.
That dilemma resolved, I dove back in to the book. I quickly discovered that I was (for the second time this summer) in the position of being pleasantly surprised by something I was reading. In particular, I was excited by the quality of Pulioff's writing, not because I didn't think she would be a good writer, but because I (mistakenly) assumed mid grade fiction would require shorter, choppier writing to accommodate the limitations of younger readers. (Whaaat? I talk about booze and Tramped up Toddlers and you don't blink but you get all huffy when I say I thought kids needed simpler writing? Remember, I typically read adult fiction or my daughter's coma-inducing Pinkalicious books, people - I don't exactly have any recent MG experience to draw on.) Instead, this book has a nice flow and there are more than a few moments in this story where young readers will be exposed not only to good writing at a comfortable MG level but good writing at any level. I'm a big believer that the best books have story and flow and this one has both.
One thing that was a bit of a problem for me was that Madeline is presented as an independent and intelligent young woman but she occasionally made some very strange decisions that just don’t seem to jibe with those qualities. The most difficult one for me to deal with was her assumption that her enemy’s scum-of-the-earth lackeys would feel bound by the rules and conventions of the knightly code of chivalry when she offered herself up to them as a hostage/distraction at a pivotal point in the story. Given the riff raff Paulsen had in his army, she should have ended up as a front runner in next year’s Darwin Awards. Luckily for her, in her world there is honour amongst irredeemable psychopaths so she survives - honour unbesmirched - to (presumably) head up a third instalment in this series. In the end, I guess it boils down to this: she's 16 years old. Lucky? Yes. Street smart? Eeeeh...not so much.
Aside from this one minor quibble, I really enjoyed this book. It is definitely written with a mid-grade reader in mind but this adult enjoyed it as a nice, light read. It is also one book in a series I guarantee I will be reading with my daughter when the time comes to introduce her to the mid grade reading level.
I'm giving this book my recommendation and 5 stars.
December 18, 2013
Once I read the first book, I absolutely had to read the second! The second book of the Princess Madeline Trilogy, The Battle for Princess Madeline, continues where the first book left off. The tension builds as more is revealed of the past and the wizards return to the castle. Princess Madeline is looking forward to her upcoming nuptials with her Champion knight Daniel, but Prince Paulsen lays claim to her and will stop at nothing to make her his wife. He and some rather unsavory characters hold the castle in siege waiting for Madeline to be delivered. But once again, stubborn Madeline has her own plans to end the battle peacefully.
The Battle for Princess Madeline delves even deeper into the lives of the characters from Book 1. The plot thickens as the great wizard Elias returns to the kingdom with news that the time of the dragons is coming. Pulioff does a great job of weaving teasers of the underlying sub-plot featuring the mystery of Madeline’s mother’s death and the ensuing exile of the wizards through all three books. Once again the author delights with another cliffhanger as Madeline and her friends spot a dragon unexpectedly soaring through the skies signaling their awakening. The Battle for Princess Madeline is another winner for Pulioff and I’m looking forward to reading Book 3, Princess Madeline and the Dragon.
I received a copy of this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own. *
The Battle for Princess Madeline delves even deeper into the lives of the characters from Book 1. The plot thickens as the great wizard Elias returns to the kingdom with news that the time of the dragons is coming. Pulioff does a great job of weaving teasers of the underlying sub-plot featuring the mystery of Madeline’s mother’s death and the ensuing exile of the wizards through all three books. Once again the author delights with another cliffhanger as Madeline and her friends spot a dragon unexpectedly soaring through the skies signaling their awakening. The Battle for Princess Madeline is another winner for Pulioff and I’m looking forward to reading Book 3, Princess Madeline and the Dragon.
I received a copy of this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own. *
August 30, 2016
This is the next adventure in the Princess Madeline series. Follow Princess Madeline as she learns the meaning of bravery, and learns to trust in herself.
A middle grade fantasy adventure, targeted for the upper middle grade/tween audience, with aspects of fantasy and fun for the whole family.
A middle grade fantasy adventure, targeted for the upper middle grade/tween audience, with aspects of fantasy and fun for the whole family.
June 29, 2013
Fairy tales are filled with knights and princesses and castles and a special magical feel that takes the reader far, far, away into another world, another place, another time. The Battle for Princess Madeline fits the bill to a tee! Author Kirstin Pulioff has created a special feel to the tale of Princess Madeline with her own special talent for using words to paint pictures in our minds. Princess Madeline, a strong young woman with a high sense of right and wrong is getting ready to celebrate her betrothal to her Champion Knight, Daniel, sharing this joy with all of the kingdom of Soron! Unfortunately, Prince Paulsen wants Madeline for his very own. His obsession with having her turns ugly and a battle is eminent, but how should this be dealt with? After all, this is Madeline’s future, shouldn’t she decide how best to handle it? Is she brave enough? Can she enlist the help of her best friend and win? Should the King’s plan be used, or maybe that of the court wizard? So much is at stake, so many lives in danger…
Princess Madeline has matured and realizes that the fate of her people lay in her hands and is willing to risk her own life and happiness for the kingdom and the man she loves. Will love and good triumph over evil?
Kirstin Pulioff has done a remarkable job in building upon Madeline’s character and her past experiences (book one)! Each supporting character had a unique charm, good or bad and fell into their place in the story very well! As each scene was built, the world of knights and castles and princesses in conflict became so vivid, I was transported into a fairy tale come to life!
A wonderful book for younger readers, as well as anyone who wants to escape into a fun read with a quick pace and a magical feel of make-believe!
Publication Date: May 21, 2013
ISBN: 1482790084
Number of Pages: 159
Series: Book 2
Genre: Fantasy/Young Adult/Middle Grade
My Rating: 5 Stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
Princess Madeline has matured and realizes that the fate of her people lay in her hands and is willing to risk her own life and happiness for the kingdom and the man she loves. Will love and good triumph over evil?
Kirstin Pulioff has done a remarkable job in building upon Madeline’s character and her past experiences (book one)! Each supporting character had a unique charm, good or bad and fell into their place in the story very well! As each scene was built, the world of knights and castles and princesses in conflict became so vivid, I was transported into a fairy tale come to life!
A wonderful book for younger readers, as well as anyone who wants to escape into a fun read with a quick pace and a magical feel of make-believe!
Publication Date: May 21, 2013
ISBN: 1482790084
Number of Pages: 159
Series: Book 2
Genre: Fantasy/Young Adult/Middle Grade
My Rating: 5 Stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
January 8, 2014
In book two of the Princess Madeline series we’re back in the Kingdom of Soron, in the midst of the Fall Festival. Apart from the fun and activity of this festive event, there is a special significance: Princess Madeline’s betrothal to her Champion Knight Daniel, who saved her during her previous escapade. Princess Madeline is starting to grow up as well, and apart from making her tutor’s life a misery with her questions, is taking a great interest in the kinds of things necessary for running a kingdom and being responsible for people. It seems that nothing will spoil this idyllic time, except the reappearance of the sly Prince Paulsen, making outrageous demands on King Theodore. Paulsen demands Madeline’s hand in marriage and when the king reminds the prince that although he rid the country of brigands, he did not actually save the princess himself, this leads to terrible events. War ensues, and at the same time Madeline must decide how she can help save the kingdom. The banished wizards risk the wrath of the king by appearing, with messages, clues, and advice. While Theodore and Daniel face Paulsen’s ravaging troops, Madeline makes her own decisions.
Kudos to author Kirstin Pulioff for introducing more entrancing back story regarding magical choices that Madeline and her twin brother made without knowing it. Fragments of their mother’s story come through, adding to the wizards’ role in this book, and indeed in the prehistory of Soron. I loved the element of magic and mystery that the wizards bring, with suggestions of building onto forthcoming events, when the Age of Dragons looms over Soron. Madeline develops a sense of maturity about life, and her relationship with Daniel. She also uses her wits and embarks upon a daring plan, so courage is part of her nature. The battle scenes and the grim results of Paulsen’s invasion are brought to life by the author’s gift for description. In fact, description is part of what makes the series so appealing. One can hear the clash of swords, the shouts of the soldiers or (on a more peaceful note) almost rub shoulders with Madeline as she gazes at a beautiful view. There is much to entice young readers in this tale of the Princess: action, adventure, a charming romance, magic, and of course, the promise of dragons to come. I am looking forward to book three.
Kudos to author Kirstin Pulioff for introducing more entrancing back story regarding magical choices that Madeline and her twin brother made without knowing it. Fragments of their mother’s story come through, adding to the wizards’ role in this book, and indeed in the prehistory of Soron. I loved the element of magic and mystery that the wizards bring, with suggestions of building onto forthcoming events, when the Age of Dragons looms over Soron. Madeline develops a sense of maturity about life, and her relationship with Daniel. She also uses her wits and embarks upon a daring plan, so courage is part of her nature. The battle scenes and the grim results of Paulsen’s invasion are brought to life by the author’s gift for description. In fact, description is part of what makes the series so appealing. One can hear the clash of swords, the shouts of the soldiers or (on a more peaceful note) almost rub shoulders with Madeline as she gazes at a beautiful view. There is much to entice young readers in this tale of the Princess: action, adventure, a charming romance, magic, and of course, the promise of dragons to come. I am looking forward to book three.
August 7, 2013
Have you been to the Kingdom of Soron yet? I have, and I met King Theodore and his twin children, Prince Braden and Princess Madeline. I met the Knight Daniel who won the Princess' heart and Elias her wizard uncle in his brilliant green robes who returns from exile to teach her the ways of magic. What a delightful adventure I found between the pages of The Battle for Princess Madeline.
This book is written for middle grade students and I think the author hit the mark, with just the right amount of action without gratuitous bloodshed. The romance is handled without too much gush! Your child will either giggle at the gentle little shows of affection, or maybe, like my 10-year old, they’ll blush and say, “Eww gross!” while secretly being delighted.
This is the second book in a series. I’ve read the first book The Escape of Princess Madeline and was delighted to see that Madeline has done some growing up, and gives some thought to her actions and their consequences. Madeline has become a thoughtful young lady, who thinks about her Kingdom first, not just her own happiness. She is still a lil' stubborn, but in a good way. She's learned to listen to advice and weigh it, but to still follow her heart.
I feel like the author's voice strengthened in her second book, which delights me to no end, as there are more adventures waiting for Madeline and Daniel. The writing keeps getting better, with more "show" and less "tell". Psst! I believe we’ll be encountering dragons soon! Squee! Kirstin is writing the third book now, with a release date of late 2013/early 2014! Yay, Sierra and I have another adventure to look forward to.
When I review, I don't like to rehash the synopsis too much. You can get a good idea of what the book is all about at Amazon, and I've provided a link so you can do just that, I also provided the books blurb below for your perusal. I'm guessing you just want to know whether I liked it or not. I would highly recommend The Battle for Princess Madeline for the 4th-8th Grader in your life.
This book is written for middle grade students and I think the author hit the mark, with just the right amount of action without gratuitous bloodshed. The romance is handled without too much gush! Your child will either giggle at the gentle little shows of affection, or maybe, like my 10-year old, they’ll blush and say, “Eww gross!” while secretly being delighted.
This is the second book in a series. I’ve read the first book The Escape of Princess Madeline and was delighted to see that Madeline has done some growing up, and gives some thought to her actions and their consequences. Madeline has become a thoughtful young lady, who thinks about her Kingdom first, not just her own happiness. She is still a lil' stubborn, but in a good way. She's learned to listen to advice and weigh it, but to still follow her heart.
I feel like the author's voice strengthened in her second book, which delights me to no end, as there are more adventures waiting for Madeline and Daniel. The writing keeps getting better, with more "show" and less "tell". Psst! I believe we’ll be encountering dragons soon! Squee! Kirstin is writing the third book now, with a release date of late 2013/early 2014! Yay, Sierra and I have another adventure to look forward to.
When I review, I don't like to rehash the synopsis too much. You can get a good idea of what the book is all about at Amazon, and I've provided a link so you can do just that, I also provided the books blurb below for your perusal. I'm guessing you just want to know whether I liked it or not. I would highly recommend The Battle for Princess Madeline for the 4th-8th Grader in your life.
July 7, 2016
The Battle for Princess Madeline is the sequel to The Princess Madeline trilogy. Madeline is happily engaged to her Daniel. Her father gives her a new place where the engaged couple can build a new home. However, her happiness soon changes when Prince Paulsen, one of Madeline’s rejected suitors, is still desperate enough to make Madeline his wife. He soon wages a war against her kingdom. Can Madeline save her kingdom before it is too late?
One thing that I really like about this book is that there is more depth to the side characters. We get to learn more about Princess Madeline’s late mother, her twin brother, Braden, and her best friend, Sophia. We also learn more about the wizards, especially, Elias. I liked how we get to see how their personal conflicts and struggles. Another thing I like about this book is how Madeline has grown from the first novel. She is very reckless and does not heed the advice of others, especially her father. Yet, she is willing to sacrifice herself for the good of her kingdom. Therefore, I think that Madeline would make a great queen. The only thing that I did not like about this book’s characters is that Daniel made very few appearances in this novel. Thus, I did not feel that his character was developed very fully.
Overall, this book is about love, friendship, duty, bravery, and choices. The message of the book is to stand up for what you believe is right, even when others are against you. The world-building is much more developed than in the first novel. The only thing that I dislike about the book was the cliffhanger at the end. I felt that it was very unnecessary. Nevertheless, I can’t wait to read more about Princess Madeline’s next adventures. I recommend this book to those interested in original fairy tales, romances, and those who want to read an entertaining series of adventure tales.
(Note: This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.)
One thing that I really like about this book is that there is more depth to the side characters. We get to learn more about Princess Madeline’s late mother, her twin brother, Braden, and her best friend, Sophia. We also learn more about the wizards, especially, Elias. I liked how we get to see how their personal conflicts and struggles. Another thing I like about this book is how Madeline has grown from the first novel. She is very reckless and does not heed the advice of others, especially her father. Yet, she is willing to sacrifice herself for the good of her kingdom. Therefore, I think that Madeline would make a great queen. The only thing that I did not like about this book’s characters is that Daniel made very few appearances in this novel. Thus, I did not feel that his character was developed very fully.
Overall, this book is about love, friendship, duty, bravery, and choices. The message of the book is to stand up for what you believe is right, even when others are against you. The world-building is much more developed than in the first novel. The only thing that I dislike about the book was the cliffhanger at the end. I felt that it was very unnecessary. Nevertheless, I can’t wait to read more about Princess Madeline’s next adventures. I recommend this book to those interested in original fairy tales, romances, and those who want to read an entertaining series of adventure tales.
(Note: This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.)
May 28, 2013
The authors knows all the wonderful fantasy ways of distant times in the far away country of Solon, with its strong king, and his beautiful children Prince Braden and Princess Madeline. The adventurous Princess got herself in a good deal of trouble in the first story and, true to herself, she is rearing to get into hot water this time around. I’m certain that enjoying this great new story doesn’t depend on your having read the first adventure. and equally sure that when you finish this action-packed tale you will be eager to read its companion. I was disappointed that Madeline’s best friend, Sophia, did not have a warm and loving friendship with the Prince. The loving arms, lips, and energetic protection of Madeline by Knight Daniel, the Princess’ official Protector, was something any girl would swoon to have. He fought bravely for his lady against the nasty Prince Paulsen and then with Roone the scruffy rogue. The prince had ordered Roone against all the rules of fair play, to join the hand-to-hand fight. The horrid Prince had got it into his silly royal head that he had the right to marry Madeline. She thought he was yucky.. He raised an evil smelling and brutal army to prove he was right. But that’s enough glimpses of the story. We get to know Elias and his wizards, and there’s one sighting of a flying dragon. The nice little chap, Emmett, is a great help when the Princess is up to her ears in trouble. She puts into action battle plans she had just learned from her boring old tutor. So you see that education is quite good for you, even if you are a princess and have a room high up in a special tower, where, if you look out of the window, you can see forever. Way to go Maddy! I want more Madeline stories...please.
September 8, 2016
This book is markedly better than the first. At least I found no plot holes. The descriptions, settings, and magical elements work for those who want a traditional fairy-tale type story. Princess Madeline and Prince Braden are still opposite in temperament, and now the author reveals how their past choices have already limited their future choices. Too bad we didn't see that in the previous book, but the author is learning.
Preparations for the royal wedding are on track until Prince Paulson arrives, set on getting his reward. He demands Madeline's hand. Battle ensues, and Madeline makes an effort to obey the King's wishes before she talks her best friend Sophia into helping her escape. Since Sophia suffers the consequences, Madeline's immunity from similar trouble annoys me. But I doubt such picture-perfect love will annoy girl tweens.
Again, the magical elements make good entertainment as Madeline trains, and the legacy of her mother becomes more evident in predicting future events now coming to pass. We see more vivid descriptions to make the scenes lifelike. Then in stark contrast to how things would happen in the real world battle, there's no real damage to a main character and no death. I shook my head.
A way with words can only get a book so far. A good critique group would do wonders to correct a myriad of errors. But for those who can skip over or don't notice the problems, there's a good day's adventure in store with a message of peace and forgiveness. I liked how the author completed the story arc for this book and introduced another. Dragons! 3 stars with hopes for more in the next book. I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Preparations for the royal wedding are on track until Prince Paulson arrives, set on getting his reward. He demands Madeline's hand. Battle ensues, and Madeline makes an effort to obey the King's wishes before she talks her best friend Sophia into helping her escape. Since Sophia suffers the consequences, Madeline's immunity from similar trouble annoys me. But I doubt such picture-perfect love will annoy girl tweens.
Again, the magical elements make good entertainment as Madeline trains, and the legacy of her mother becomes more evident in predicting future events now coming to pass. We see more vivid descriptions to make the scenes lifelike. Then in stark contrast to how things would happen in the real world battle, there's no real damage to a main character and no death. I shook my head.
A way with words can only get a book so far. A good critique group would do wonders to correct a myriad of errors. But for those who can skip over or don't notice the problems, there's a good day's adventure in store with a message of peace and forgiveness. I liked how the author completed the story arc for this book and introduced another. Dragons! 3 stars with hopes for more in the next book. I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2013
The Battle for Princess Madeline Continuing the story of Princess Madeline and her royal family, The Battle for Princess Madeline was a short and sweet read. I didn't have the opportunity to read Madeline's first story, but I can absolutely say that this reads as a standalone just fine! All the characters are introduced well, and we are even given a look into the past to catch us up a bit.
I enjoyed following Madeline on her adventures. She's a witty and vibrant heroine. One that readers will love! I especially loved how stubborn she was when it came to handling whatever needed to be done. I'm still not entirely sure whether this was written for Middle Grade or Young Adult readers, but I will say that the writing is simple enough to transcend both reading levels. I found it a little slow at times, but then again the descriptive writing here is important to the overall story.
I'd like to go back and read the first book to see how Madeline and her brother grow up. The one thing I really wished for, honestly, was more book! This is a very short read and it seems like a few things were rushed. I wanted more insight into the characters and their dilemmas. Truth be told, I'd happily read more pages if it meant seeing more into the world that Kirstin Pulioff builds. One of wizards, magic, and bravery.
If you are a fan of Fantasy reads, or have a young reader who loves brave heroines, this is a read you should absolutely check out.
I enjoyed following Madeline on her adventures. She's a witty and vibrant heroine. One that readers will love! I especially loved how stubborn she was when it came to handling whatever needed to be done. I'm still not entirely sure whether this was written for Middle Grade or Young Adult readers, but I will say that the writing is simple enough to transcend both reading levels. I found it a little slow at times, but then again the descriptive writing here is important to the overall story.
I'd like to go back and read the first book to see how Madeline and her brother grow up. The one thing I really wished for, honestly, was more book! This is a very short read and it seems like a few things were rushed. I wanted more insight into the characters and their dilemmas. Truth be told, I'd happily read more pages if it meant seeing more into the world that Kirstin Pulioff builds. One of wizards, magic, and bravery.
If you are a fan of Fantasy reads, or have a young reader who loves brave heroines, this is a read you should absolutely check out.
October 8, 2013
Reviewed by Bobbie for Readers Favorites
In The Battle for Princess Madeline by Kirstin Pulioff, I was introduced to the kingdom of Soron and its ruling family, which included the title character, Princess Madeline. Finding a suitable mate is often a concern for the princes and princesses of a ruling family, though this is not the case with Princess Madeline. Her heart has been won by First Knight Daniel, and she is happily preparing for her royal wedding. When a rival suitor, Prince Paulsen arrives, that is when the problems arise. He believes it is his right to marry the Princess, and will stop at nothing to achieve this marriage so that his own kingdom will prosper. Add to this family secrets and heavy choices to be made, and this book is quite a charmer, perfect for younger readers.
This book sucked me in from the beginning. I didn’t realize for some time that this was not the first book in the series, but Kirstin Pulioff wove The Battle for Princess Madeline skillfully enough that I was able to fully enjoy this story even though I had not read the previous book, The Escape of Princess Madeline. This is a book meant for younger readers, and it will surely delight them with its tales of knights and wizards and dragons. If I have any complaint at all, it is that there were too many winks and eye twinkles for my liking, but that does not take away from the story. This is a wonderful story that will leave the readers anxiously awaiting the next installment of Princess Madeline’s tale.
In The Battle for Princess Madeline by Kirstin Pulioff, I was introduced to the kingdom of Soron and its ruling family, which included the title character, Princess Madeline. Finding a suitable mate is often a concern for the princes and princesses of a ruling family, though this is not the case with Princess Madeline. Her heart has been won by First Knight Daniel, and she is happily preparing for her royal wedding. When a rival suitor, Prince Paulsen arrives, that is when the problems arise. He believes it is his right to marry the Princess, and will stop at nothing to achieve this marriage so that his own kingdom will prosper. Add to this family secrets and heavy choices to be made, and this book is quite a charmer, perfect for younger readers.
This book sucked me in from the beginning. I didn’t realize for some time that this was not the first book in the series, but Kirstin Pulioff wove The Battle for Princess Madeline skillfully enough that I was able to fully enjoy this story even though I had not read the previous book, The Escape of Princess Madeline. This is a book meant for younger readers, and it will surely delight them with its tales of knights and wizards and dragons. If I have any complaint at all, it is that there were too many winks and eye twinkles for my liking, but that does not take away from the story. This is a wonderful story that will leave the readers anxiously awaiting the next installment of Princess Madeline’s tale.
June 3, 2013
I read both The Escape of Princess Madeline and The Battle of Princess Madeline. I LOVED both of the books and can not wait for the third one! So these books may be a little on the YA novel spectrum (but who doesn't love them anyways!) So if you have a TEEN I would recommend these books Highly or if your a kid at heart! Both books are very well written and believing you are right in there with all the characters.
The Escape of Princess Madeline introduces us to the kingdom of Soron. Madeline wants control over her future, the book opens with her father giving her a beautiful dress. Madeline later finds out she it supposed to wear this beautiful dress to her betrothment ball. This book is all about how Madeline gains control of her future.
The Battle of Princess Madeline is the sequel of The Escape of Princess Madeline in which the kingdom of Soron is threatened by a would be suitor from the first book. The suitor is infatuated with Madeline and will not see her with anyone else! This book is about how good triumphs over evil (with the help of a little magic).
All in all I highly suggest these books for teens or those who love YA novels!
See more at www.greenmountaincouple.com
The Escape of Princess Madeline introduces us to the kingdom of Soron. Madeline wants control over her future, the book opens with her father giving her a beautiful dress. Madeline later finds out she it supposed to wear this beautiful dress to her betrothment ball. This book is all about how Madeline gains control of her future.
The Battle of Princess Madeline is the sequel of The Escape of Princess Madeline in which the kingdom of Soron is threatened by a would be suitor from the first book. The suitor is infatuated with Madeline and will not see her with anyone else! This book is about how good triumphs over evil (with the help of a little magic).
All in all I highly suggest these books for teens or those who love YA novels!
See more at www.greenmountaincouple.com
November 27, 2013
"The Battle for Princess Madeline" by Kirstin Pulioff is a great sequel to "The Escpape of Princess Madeline" and an important follow up to the ending of said book one.
How exactly is Princess Madeline going to live her newly won 'freedom' in a world where she is still the daughter of a medieval King? How is her father going to adapt to a strong willed daughter?
In the first book Pulioff has greatly broken down the outdated stereotypes and role models that characters in classic fairy tales often can reinforce, something that threatens the entire genre in the long run. Now we get to see how the characters live with these changes.
On a plot level we have a few loose ties to attend to, namely the rejected prince who was promised Madeline's hand in turn for her rescue and of course where Madeline is going to live with her prince.
Another adventure awaits as Madeline and her entourage take a trip to Dragon's Gate.
Like the first book, this is a wonderful fairy tale with all the magic ingredients that the medieval times have to offer for a story like Madeline's but the story is adapted enough for contemporary readers to enjoy the story also on a character basis - a great service to the genre in my view.
Very enjoyable and definitely recommended.
How exactly is Princess Madeline going to live her newly won 'freedom' in a world where she is still the daughter of a medieval King? How is her father going to adapt to a strong willed daughter?
In the first book Pulioff has greatly broken down the outdated stereotypes and role models that characters in classic fairy tales often can reinforce, something that threatens the entire genre in the long run. Now we get to see how the characters live with these changes.
On a plot level we have a few loose ties to attend to, namely the rejected prince who was promised Madeline's hand in turn for her rescue and of course where Madeline is going to live with her prince.
Another adventure awaits as Madeline and her entourage take a trip to Dragon's Gate.
Like the first book, this is a wonderful fairy tale with all the magic ingredients that the medieval times have to offer for a story like Madeline's but the story is adapted enough for contemporary readers to enjoy the story also on a character basis - a great service to the genre in my view.
Very enjoyable and definitely recommended.
June 15, 2013
Princess Madeline owned Daniel’s heart from the day he was knighted when she whispered “My Knight,” in his ear. He earned her heart when he tracked her down and found her after she ran away from home. He didn’t give up, although others said she’d died. As their marriage approached, the idyllic days were interrupted by Prince Paulsen’s challenge for her hand.
Prince Paulsen surrounded the castle with his men and hired henchmen. Then he demanded a fight to death with Daniel, with Princess Madeline being the prize. With her fate hanging in the balance, Princess Madeline is frustrated because no one will listen to her thoughts regarding the battle strategy. So she takes matters into her own hands, enlists assistance from her best friend, Sophia, and visiting wizards. Princess Madeline’s plan could cause her to get kidnapped again, when she puts herself in danger’s way to save her beloved Kingdom of Soron and her true love, Knight Daniel.
Once again, Ms. Pulioff creates a fun fairy tale. It may be about a princess and her knight, but it includes battles, dragons and wizards. I’d recommend this book for both boys and girls.
Prince Paulsen surrounded the castle with his men and hired henchmen. Then he demanded a fight to death with Daniel, with Princess Madeline being the prize. With her fate hanging in the balance, Princess Madeline is frustrated because no one will listen to her thoughts regarding the battle strategy. So she takes matters into her own hands, enlists assistance from her best friend, Sophia, and visiting wizards. Princess Madeline’s plan could cause her to get kidnapped again, when she puts herself in danger’s way to save her beloved Kingdom of Soron and her true love, Knight Daniel.
Once again, Ms. Pulioff creates a fun fairy tale. It may be about a princess and her knight, but it includes battles, dragons and wizards. I’d recommend this book for both boys and girls.
April 4, 2015
I was looking forward to reading this after reading the first book in the Princess Madeline series and was not disappointed. Again, Princess Madeline stands out as a young girl with a healthy self-esteem and a good feel for right and wrong. Although she chose her 'prince' at the end of book one, she now faces the fact that she must also do what's best for the kingdom. I enjoyed following her as she was forced to work through an increasingly threatening situation, while maintaining herself and what she really wanted.
As before, the world is well described, making it easy to fall into this traditional feeling kingdom where knights and kings live in castles and battle for power. Although traditional, the world never feels dusty, but the wonderful character of Princess Madeline gives it a wonderful touch of modern day, girl power. This is a lovely story of a girl as she grows, and learns how to trust herself and not bend to others wishes simply because it's expected of her.
As before, the world is well described, making it easy to fall into this traditional feeling kingdom where knights and kings live in castles and battle for power. Although traditional, the world never feels dusty, but the wonderful character of Princess Madeline gives it a wonderful touch of modern day, girl power. This is a lovely story of a girl as she grows, and learns how to trust herself and not bend to others wishes simply because it's expected of her.
June 6, 2013
My Thoughts - 5 out of 5 unicorns - I loved it!!
The story was beautiful and definitely something I need to read to my nieces :) I guess I love fairy tales especially when there is a head strong and noble princess who won’t let anyone or anything hold her back from doing what she thinks is right. I love her sense of personal integrity and courage which is hard to teach or show kids but this book does it :) Kirstin is a fabulous story teller and bard :)
I can’t wait to see what happens next with Princess Madeline!!
I recommend to all ages, use this to bond with your kids and read to them using different voices that will stick in the heads forever.
*Provided to me as part of a book tour for an honest review
The story was beautiful and definitely something I need to read to my nieces :) I guess I love fairy tales especially when there is a head strong and noble princess who won’t let anyone or anything hold her back from doing what she thinks is right. I love her sense of personal integrity and courage which is hard to teach or show kids but this book does it :) Kirstin is a fabulous story teller and bard :)
I can’t wait to see what happens next with Princess Madeline!!
I recommend to all ages, use this to bond with your kids and read to them using different voices that will stick in the heads forever.
*Provided to me as part of a book tour for an honest review
September 20, 2013
Kirstin Pulioff's headstrong heroine from 'The Escape of Princess Madeline' returns in this young reader novel.
Madeline may have found her soulmate and learned a few life lessons from her first adventure, but she is still determined to make her mark in a man's world.
'Battle' expands the story and the background from the first book in the series and Ms Pulioff sets things up for a third book involving dragons and presumably more magic.
Readers who enjoyed 'Escape' will not be disappointed in its sequel.
Madeline may have found her soulmate and learned a few life lessons from her first adventure, but she is still determined to make her mark in a man's world.
'Battle' expands the story and the background from the first book in the series and Ms Pulioff sets things up for a third book involving dragons and presumably more magic.
Readers who enjoyed 'Escape' will not be disappointed in its sequel.
August 11, 2016
I enjoyed the first book of this series quite a bit and started this book almost immediately after finishing the first. I still enjoyed this book but I found the main character slightly more annoying this time around in the beginning. She was so focused on just basking in everyone's adoration of her and her newly engaged status.
Despite that, when the battle begins she becomes less self-focused and more sympathetic as she takes action to save the kingdom.
Overall I would consider this a book that kids would enjoy even if the character has some flaws.
Despite that, when the battle begins she becomes less self-focused and more sympathetic as she takes action to save the kingdom.
Overall I would consider this a book that kids would enjoy even if the character has some flaws.
May 2, 2013
I felt much the same about this book as I did the first one. This is a clean, short, middle grade to young adult fantasy novel. The plot is well thought out and the storyline is great. I liked the characters, both old and new, and enjoyed the way each of them developed.
Just like the first book, I wish that this had been longer. It needed to be fleshed out a little more for me to really get into it.
My blog: Books for Kids
Just like the first book, I wish that this had been longer. It needed to be fleshed out a little more for me to really get into it.
My blog: Books for Kids
May 30, 2013
The second book in the adventures of Princess Madeline carries the series further into the realm of magic and myth. The princess still has an unwanted suitor hanging around from book one, and while trying to defeat him in battle and save her kingdom, she discovers long-hidden secrets about herself and the world around her. Full of twists and turns, this Disney-like story is bound to please tweens, younger teens, and the young at heart.
July 18, 2013
I love this series so much. I love that Pulioff writes quality stories for our younger audience There is so much that is great about this series...the amazing characters, the mystical adventure, the story with the moral lessons and the way she writes the story makes you feel like you are there with the characters!!! I think that Pulioff has found a voice in this genre and I can't wait to see where the series continues to take us!!!! 4 stars!!!!
July 26, 2013
So nice story to read, and enjoyable.
This book is the sequel of The Escape of Princess Madeline.
Princess Madeline carries the series further into the realm of magic and myth.
This book is short, fantasy novel, but you have fun read it the character are more matured and have adventures, romance and lots of love.
This book is the sequel of The Escape of Princess Madeline.
Princess Madeline carries the series further into the realm of magic and myth.
This book is short, fantasy novel, but you have fun read it the character are more matured and have adventures, romance and lots of love.
June 10, 2013
Princess Madeline has matured and is in love and promised to her Knight Champion, Daniel. The festival is about to begin when Prince Paulsen destroys the village in his obsession to have Princess Madeline's hand. A recommended story for all ages. A charming sequel to the original fairy-tale style story filled with knights and battles and magic.
December 4, 2013
This, the second book maintained the consistency and rhythm in the hole story. Once again, I enjoy it very much with my relatives.
June 7, 2014
A cute little fairytale. I think that I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the first book. Having read it, I will go back and read it to my daughter.
July 23, 2013
Usually, I start off a review saying something that is related, more or less, to the main idea of the story that I feel that I can relate to. However, I cannot think of anything for this review, and thus this explanation will replace it.
First of all, I severely dislike the main character Madeline. I never understand why characters think that they should be doing something that they have no business doing. On top of that, she decides to put herself at risk in a highly dangerous scenario in order to do it. Why? Because she feels it’s her duty, although it obviously is not, and because she had a dream about it. Yes, a dream. Main characters that are completely and utterly idiotic are one of the things that bother me the most in stories. Not to mention . It’s easy to see how she was captured in the first book, acting like this.
As for the other characters, they were one-dimensional and absolutely predictable. Once I got a feel for the characters, nothing in the story surprised me. It was easy to assume how each character would act to each scenario they faced throughout the story, then surprise, it played out exactly how I assumed.
On a positive note, I liked the author’s descriptions of the settings and characters. Some authors tend to leave out descriptions of things as if they’re unimportant, and maybe they are, but I always like descriptions. They were often enough to where I had a good idea implanted in my mind about the settings and characters, but not overly abundant to where it slowed the story.
Speaking of the speed of the story, I felt that it really worked here. If this was a 400 page book, I highly doubt I would have finished it, or even gotten close. The book was short, quick and fast paced, although I guess saying that’s a little redundant.
Overall, the story wasn’t really bad, but everything about it screams “over-used.” Really, there wasn’t one part of the story that I felt was “different.” Reading the epilogue, it seems to be introducing dragons, another element that is extremely overused in fantasy. Don’t get me wrong, when used right, dragons are absolutely wonderful, but you need to execute their roles in the story perfectly for that effect. Otherwise, they’re often boring and unexciting. I don’t regret reading this book, and while I feel that the targeted middle grade readers would find this book enjoyable, it quickly loses its touch with older readers. And that is, I believe, what separates the average books from the great ones, whether or not a different age group can grab the book, and become fully immersed in its story.
*This copy was won through Firstreads
First of all, I severely dislike the main character Madeline. I never understand why characters think that they should be doing something that they have no business doing. On top of that, she decides to put herself at risk in a highly dangerous scenario in order to do it. Why? Because she feels it’s her duty, although it obviously is not, and because she had a dream about it. Yes, a dream. Main characters that are completely and utterly idiotic are one of the things that bother me the most in stories. Not to mention . It’s easy to see how she was captured in the first book, acting like this.
As for the other characters, they were one-dimensional and absolutely predictable. Once I got a feel for the characters, nothing in the story surprised me. It was easy to assume how each character would act to each scenario they faced throughout the story, then surprise, it played out exactly how I assumed.
On a positive note, I liked the author’s descriptions of the settings and characters. Some authors tend to leave out descriptions of things as if they’re unimportant, and maybe they are, but I always like descriptions. They were often enough to where I had a good idea implanted in my mind about the settings and characters, but not overly abundant to where it slowed the story.
Speaking of the speed of the story, I felt that it really worked here. If this was a 400 page book, I highly doubt I would have finished it, or even gotten close. The book was short, quick and fast paced, although I guess saying that’s a little redundant.
Overall, the story wasn’t really bad, but everything about it screams “over-used.” Really, there wasn’t one part of the story that I felt was “different.” Reading the epilogue, it seems to be introducing dragons, another element that is extremely overused in fantasy. Don’t get me wrong, when used right, dragons are absolutely wonderful, but you need to execute their roles in the story perfectly for that effect. Otherwise, they’re often boring and unexciting. I don’t regret reading this book, and while I feel that the targeted middle grade readers would find this book enjoyable, it quickly loses its touch with older readers. And that is, I believe, what separates the average books from the great ones, whether or not a different age group can grab the book, and become fully immersed in its story.
*This copy was won through Firstreads
January 16, 2014
Not going to post a full review until I finish reading the third book. (Which 2 chapters in is already markedly better).
July 16, 2015
Great
I choose this rating because I love how the author displayed the mid evil myths we dreamed about when we were little but made it so not only little kids can enjoy it
I choose this rating because I love how the author displayed the mid evil myths we dreamed about when we were little but made it so not only little kids can enjoy it
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews