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Seasons Within #1
Seasons Within
(Revised/Proofread version uploaded April/2017)
Most teenage girls know their name, where they came from, who they are. Not G, a beautiful redhead with unusual markings on her wrist. She gets her name from a silver locket she keeps around her neck, unaware the engraved letter “G” on its front holds the secret to her past.
G’s life before the age of six has been a mystery to her. Each night for the last twelve years she’s been haunted by the same nightmare—a war. Horrendous beasts, warriors able to wield the four elements, and a boy who saves her by means of blue fire taunt her memory. But on her eighteenth birthday, G’s life begins to unravel. When she meets her new Chemistry professor, a man with an uncanny resemblance to the boy who saves her, she knows there must be more to her dreams.
It’s dangerous not knowing who you are, what you’re capable of, and what future awaits you. Especially when the darkness that slaughtered your entire world, just found you.
Most teenage girls know their name, where they came from, who they are. Not G, a beautiful redhead with unusual markings on her wrist. She gets her name from a silver locket she keeps around her neck, unaware the engraved letter “G” on its front holds the secret to her past.
G’s life before the age of six has been a mystery to her. Each night for the last twelve years she’s been haunted by the same nightmare—a war. Horrendous beasts, warriors able to wield the four elements, and a boy who saves her by means of blue fire taunt her memory. But on her eighteenth birthday, G’s life begins to unravel. When she meets her new Chemistry professor, a man with an uncanny resemblance to the boy who saves her, she knows there must be more to her dreams.
It’s dangerous not knowing who you are, what you’re capable of, and what future awaits you. Especially when the darkness that slaughtered your entire world, just found you.
386 pages, Paperback
Published December 15, 2016
9 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Lele Iturrioz
8 books36 followersMajor geek by day, hermit writer by night! Love books, sugar gliders and everything that comes in a taco.
I’m the author of the YA fantasy series, Seasons Within
I spend my time writing, planning on writing, reading, eating (yum!), doing some Muay Thai and drinking industrial amounts of coffee with a fellow writer :)
I’m the author of the YA fantasy series, Seasons Within
I spend my time writing, planning on writing, reading, eating (yum!), doing some Muay Thai and drinking industrial amounts of coffee with a fellow writer :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 24, 2017
Original Post: Seasons Within at FLYLēF (www.flylef.com)
AS A DESIGNER, I'm irresistibly drawn to the cover of Seasons Within. It's vibrant and whimsical. I felt completely enchanted by it, and even more so after reading the opening scene. With a plot that coils like the tangles of the First Tree's root, I was wrapped in Lele Iturrioz's earnest fantasy world crawling with horrendous beasts, yet balanced with the magical beauty of nature and the unwavering bonds of friendship.
G is an orphan with no recollection of her past. For as long as she can remember, she's always adorn a locket with an engraved letter "G." No matter how hard she tries, she cannot remove it. With a past she can't recall and terrifying nightmares to fill her dreams, G's only solace is with her best friend, Priyam, a tech nerd with a razor-sharp mouth. Life changes in the most dramatic way nearing her 17th birthday when she meets, Edan, her handsome Chemistry teacher with a British accent, and his entourage of otherworldly warriors: Veter, prankster and wind-wielder; Shui, motherly and water-wielder; Willow, standoffish and earth-wielder; Donovan, flirtatious and animal whisperer; Hunter, introvert and tracker.
These characters, along with a few mysterious others, is one of my favorite aspects of Seasons Within. Ms. Iturrioz brings together a diverse cast, both in personality and in ethnicity. She creates a warm and synergistic vibe. The characters were fun, felt like good friends, and even pulled pranks that made me chuckle countlessly throughout the story. Even though some of the humor felt a bit childish and incongruent with a fierce warrior's persona, I still found the unexpected moments of comedy welcomed.
On the flip side, I sense that the author rushed to complete this ARC. Typos and grammatical errors notwithstanding, I felt that Seasons Within started off quite well by setting up an interesting coming-of-age story of a mysterious girl with a destiny to fulfill. Unfortunately, the story pivots toward a tug-a-war of emotions between G and Edan that steers away from the heart of the book, especially when another is introduced—forming the beginnings of an uncompelling love triangle.
Nevertheless, Ms. Iturrioz begins this series admirable. Seasons Within is solidly grounded in a dangerous and imaginative world, full of soulless abominations who live to torture, and a diverse cast of personalities to fawn over, as new perils emerge in an adventure likely to leave readers entertained and addictive for more.
{Thank you Lele Iturrioz and Acorn Publishing for kindly giving me this book free of charge, which does not influence my review.}
February 7, 2017
(I received a free eBook from the author via Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.)
CHARACTERS
G is a mysterious character who's past is unknown even to her. She is an oddity among others around her. She is quite the cliched heroine but Iturrioz does a good job making the character work. I enjoyed seeing her dreams at the very beginning and how her memories come back to her.
My favourite character was Priyam who is sassy and pretty much awesome. It makes me happy to see an Indian character who is important in the story. She is lively and adds so much personality into the story!
Edan was a slightly complex character and I honestly don't know what to think of him. He's sweet at times but at times he acts like a total arrogant jerk.
I enjoyed the entire group as a whole and loved reading the interactions between the different characters and the couples.
PLOT
The story has a lot of tropes - protagonist with a missing memory, the odd protagonist, love triangle etc but the author takes the story in a wonderful manner with twists where we least expect them. The plot is entertaining and quite magical. It all leaves us asking for more.
The plot deals with G trying to unravel her past and unlock her earliest memories. In the way she encounters numerous adventures with a really fun group and also has her first taste of romance. I enjoyed that the romance wasn't the focus of the story but rather the mystery was.
WRITING
I had trouble getting into the writing at first as there are quite a few grammatical and spelling errors. I learnt later that this is because the author is actually Spanish. But I was glad that these mistakes did not distract me much from the overall story. The imagery is wonderful and G's dreams shown vividly.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK
- Most of the characters
- G and Priyam's friendship
-The plot
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
- The tropes and cliches
- The writing to an extent
CONCLUSION
This book despite having some cliches tropes offers a wonderfully unique story.
CHARACTERS
G is a mysterious character who's past is unknown even to her. She is an oddity among others around her. She is quite the cliched heroine but Iturrioz does a good job making the character work. I enjoyed seeing her dreams at the very beginning and how her memories come back to her.
My favourite character was Priyam who is sassy and pretty much awesome. It makes me happy to see an Indian character who is important in the story. She is lively and adds so much personality into the story!
Edan was a slightly complex character and I honestly don't know what to think of him. He's sweet at times but at times he acts like a total arrogant jerk.
I enjoyed the entire group as a whole and loved reading the interactions between the different characters and the couples.
PLOT
The story has a lot of tropes - protagonist with a missing memory, the odd protagonist, love triangle etc but the author takes the story in a wonderful manner with twists where we least expect them. The plot is entertaining and quite magical. It all leaves us asking for more.
The plot deals with G trying to unravel her past and unlock her earliest memories. In the way she encounters numerous adventures with a really fun group and also has her first taste of romance. I enjoyed that the romance wasn't the focus of the story but rather the mystery was.
WRITING
I had trouble getting into the writing at first as there are quite a few grammatical and spelling errors. I learnt later that this is because the author is actually Spanish. But I was glad that these mistakes did not distract me much from the overall story. The imagery is wonderful and G's dreams shown vividly.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THE BOOK
- Most of the characters
- G and Priyam's friendship
-The plot
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK
- The tropes and cliches
- The writing to an extent
CONCLUSION
This book despite having some cliches tropes offers a wonderfully unique story.
March 15, 2017
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of Seasons Within provided by Xpresso Book Tours and the author. Thank you so much for introducing me to a whole new series I couldn't tear myself away from!
So many feelings.
So many thoughts.
So little words.
I couldn't even begin to describe the mind-blowing epicness of this book because it literally gave me a book hangover.
I've been reading too many contemporary romance novels and been craving for a fantasy fix instead, and this book was like a god-given gift who came knocking on my kindle's door with its impeccable timing. After reading the blurb and peeking at the cover, I fell in love almost instantly and knew I had to request it right away. Boy, was that the best decision I ever made!
Swept away by the world of Terra and Nádúr Noc, the author created a world so intriguing it was impossible not to love. Although the theme of the book was rather common in the fictional world, it was the author's ability to introduce original ideas into the story that made the reading worthwhile. Filled with action, mystery, witty banter and heated attraction, it has everything that promises a great read! I also liked that the world of Terra created a feeling of nostalgia, being whisked into a world where magical powers and monsters exist reminded me of my Harry Potter days and I can't help but love it even more.
And do not even get me started on how much I L.O.V.E. the characters. We have such a fantastic line-up of characters, each with their own distinctive personalities that there wasn't a boring moment! The author never neglected the secondary characters as they were as present as the mains! I liked the diversity especially when it comes to Priyam, an Indian who happens to be G's best friend. She's funny as hell and extremely supportive when it comes to G, she definitely rocked her human role in the world of scary monsters and dangerous dark lord. Growing up watching Avatar, it's also particularly exciting when I come across stories with nature's elements, and to have it represented by humans just made it even more thrilling!
I got to say I'm always attracted to Fire - cue alpha male Edan - which brings me to the romance aspect of the story. The sizzling attraction between Edan and G had me rooting for them from the start to the point where they are able to initiate a hormonal teenage shriek from me definitely proved something - I thought I outgrew the YA genre. However, I was extremely appreciative of the fact that the romance was not too overdone and the major focus of the story still lies in developing the plot. Furthermore, the underlying message of the story was significant and great - love thy Earth. It's beautiful to see how a person translates this message into her writing by weaving a story all about nature's beauty and destruction. An eye-opener indefinitely!
Despite having a few grammatical and spelling errors, I'm looking forward (more like pacing a hole in my room) to the second book of the series. I might be new to the author's works, but she just completely made my January!
So many feelings.
So many thoughts.
So little words.
I couldn't even begin to describe the mind-blowing epicness of this book because it literally gave me a book hangover.
I've been reading too many contemporary romance novels and been craving for a fantasy fix instead, and this book was like a god-given gift who came knocking on my kindle's door with its impeccable timing. After reading the blurb and peeking at the cover, I fell in love almost instantly and knew I had to request it right away. Boy, was that the best decision I ever made!
Swept away by the world of Terra and Nádúr Noc, the author created a world so intriguing it was impossible not to love. Although the theme of the book was rather common in the fictional world, it was the author's ability to introduce original ideas into the story that made the reading worthwhile. Filled with action, mystery, witty banter and heated attraction, it has everything that promises a great read! I also liked that the world of Terra created a feeling of nostalgia, being whisked into a world where magical powers and monsters exist reminded me of my Harry Potter days and I can't help but love it even more.
And do not even get me started on how much I L.O.V.E. the characters. We have such a fantastic line-up of characters, each with their own distinctive personalities that there wasn't a boring moment! The author never neglected the secondary characters as they were as present as the mains! I liked the diversity especially when it comes to Priyam, an Indian who happens to be G's best friend. She's funny as hell and extremely supportive when it comes to G, she definitely rocked her human role in the world of scary monsters and dangerous dark lord. Growing up watching Avatar, it's also particularly exciting when I come across stories with nature's elements, and to have it represented by humans just made it even more thrilling!
I got to say I'm always attracted to Fire - cue alpha male Edan - which brings me to the romance aspect of the story. The sizzling attraction between Edan and G had me rooting for them from the start to the point where they are able to initiate a hormonal teenage shriek from me definitely proved something - I thought I outgrew the YA genre. However, I was extremely appreciative of the fact that the romance was not too overdone and the major focus of the story still lies in developing the plot. Furthermore, the underlying message of the story was significant and great - love thy Earth. It's beautiful to see how a person translates this message into her writing by weaving a story all about nature's beauty and destruction. An eye-opener indefinitely!
Despite having a few grammatical and spelling errors, I'm looking forward (more like pacing a hole in my room) to the second book of the series. I might be new to the author's works, but she just completely made my January!
September 30, 2016
The book is quite amazing. I enjoyed myself a lot while reading it; it has a lot of magic inside it and the author describes the characters and the settings in a way that makes you feel inside of the book. It is a warranty you will like it if you enjoy reading books like Harry Potter, Narnia or The Mortal Instruments.
The author has a pretty big imagination, which keeps the book away from being too mainstream.
Personally, I can't wait to read book #2. The ending of Seasons Within leaves you intrigued and hooked on the story.
The author has a pretty big imagination, which keeps the book away from being too mainstream.
Personally, I can't wait to read book #2. The ending of Seasons Within leaves you intrigued and hooked on the story.
August 17, 2018
Recap: G is an orphan, she doesn't know who her parents were, when her birthday is or what her real name is. Until she meets Mr Blau and her entire life changes.
Review: A stiff beginning almost put me off but once we got into the story momentum it picked up pace. The characters are really well defined with great personalities. I have too many favourites to choose just one! There are four seasons and four elements so we know what's to come but I like the fact it wasn't all squashed into one book, instead we had good pace, gentle revelation of plot and some gasp out loud moments. I can't wait to find out what will happen next.
Review: A stiff beginning almost put me off but once we got into the story momentum it picked up pace. The characters are really well defined with great personalities. I have too many favourites to choose just one! There are four seasons and four elements so we know what's to come but I like the fact it wasn't all squashed into one book, instead we had good pace, gentle revelation of plot and some gasp out loud moments. I can't wait to find out what will happen next.
August 2, 2018
G is a high school student. She lives in an orphanage with her best friend, Priy. She’s seventeen and always been a bit odd, as she remembers nothing of where she came from or even her name. She’s called G because of the necklace she’s worn since she was found.
The oddness around G escalates to bizarre and scary, and she’s not sure if the new teacher Mr. Blau has anything to do with it. He doesn’t act like a normal teacher.
Lele avoids most of the common tropes with this book. Each of the main characters are decently well rounded, though I’d love Priy’s ethnic background to have more part in the book.
The plot is also handled well, and has some nice turns to it to keep it engaging.
Unfortunately, the book could have used quality content editing. There are technical issues around description and characterization, and point of view is variable without sufficient narrative voice to allow for showing thoughts of more than one character in a scene. I saw some minor issues with story structure. None of this makes Seasons Within a bad book, but it does keep it from being a great book.
If you are willing to overlook these issues, it is a fun read. It is YA fantasy.
The oddness around G escalates to bizarre and scary, and she’s not sure if the new teacher Mr. Blau has anything to do with it. He doesn’t act like a normal teacher.
Lele avoids most of the common tropes with this book. Each of the main characters are decently well rounded, though I’d love Priy’s ethnic background to have more part in the book.
The plot is also handled well, and has some nice turns to it to keep it engaging.
Unfortunately, the book could have used quality content editing. There are technical issues around description and characterization, and point of view is variable without sufficient narrative voice to allow for showing thoughts of more than one character in a scene. I saw some minor issues with story structure. None of this makes Seasons Within a bad book, but it does keep it from being a great book.
If you are willing to overlook these issues, it is a fun read. It is YA fantasy.
February 2, 2017
REVIEW
SEASONS WITHIN
BY LELE ITURRIOZ
What a wonderful surprise Seasons Within is, I fell in love with most of characters from the word go. I actually read it in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down.
This is about G and her friend Priyam who live in an Orphanage in small town America. G can’t remember anything before 12 years ago, and Priy parents are dead .So they are as close as sisters.
This is the start of an incredible adventure, which we are gradually introduced to the six, and the flight to safety, as Gaia starts her training with fire with Edan. It’s quite difficult to not give anything important away. Gaia and Priy finally feel like they have a family.
A great bunch of characters, a story that won’t let you stop reading. A great start to a great fantasy. It’s a wonderful escape for a few hours. I can’t wait for book two, so buy the book and escape from reality.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
SEASONS WITHIN
BY LELE ITURRIOZ
What a wonderful surprise Seasons Within is, I fell in love with most of characters from the word go. I actually read it in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down.
This is about G and her friend Priyam who live in an Orphanage in small town America. G can’t remember anything before 12 years ago, and Priy parents are dead .So they are as close as sisters.
This is the start of an incredible adventure, which we are gradually introduced to the six, and the flight to safety, as Gaia starts her training with fire with Edan. It’s quite difficult to not give anything important away. Gaia and Priy finally feel like they have a family.
A great bunch of characters, a story that won’t let you stop reading. A great start to a great fantasy. It’s a wonderful escape for a few hours. I can’t wait for book two, so buy the book and escape from reality.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2016
Great new series!
Review to come on February 3rd.
Review to come on February 3rd.
December 6, 2016
Mysterious world? Got it
Charming characters? Got it
Great story? Got it
AMAZING HUMOR? Got it
The only thing I need now is the patience to wait for the 2nd book in the series!
Charming characters? Got it
Great story? Got it
AMAZING HUMOR? Got it
The only thing I need now is the patience to wait for the 2nd book in the series!
February 7, 2017
Loooved this book. It had beautiful imagery, characters and creatures. The plot was written magnificently. It's one of those stories that you can't wait to finish because you want to know what happens, and simultaneously you don't want it to end!
Highly recommend it!
See my full review here :)
https://itsmisselizabeth.wordpress.co...
Highly recommend it!
See my full review here :)
https://itsmisselizabeth.wordpress.co...
January 4, 2017
***This book was reviewed for Xpresso Book Tours***
Seasons Within by Lele Iturrioz is a classic tale of the balance between life and death, growth and entropy, of resurrection and rebirth. G was abandoned as a young child, with only a locket with the letter 'G’ on it. She has no clear memory of who she is or where she came from. Nightmares of war plague her, as do ferocious migraines. She is an usual girl, with an affinity for working with animals, and an ingrained love of nature.
When a new teacher arrives at the school G attends, her life turns a great deal stranger. She thinks there’s more to Mr Blau than meets the eye and becomes certain he knows more about her past. She tries to pry the information from him, but makes no real headway until the day when Synthia, G's school tormentor, rips the locket from her neck. The consequences of that ill-fated action are many, resulting, among other things, with G being rescued by Blau and needing to run for her life. On the bright side, she has best friend Priyam along. Both are orphans with no real future in the small town of Truckee. Now, with an enemy close to hand, and another stalking her, G must trust these people to keep her safe.
I really enjoyed this story and its potential, for all that the theme is a fairly common one among fantasy. I loved the group Blau takes G to. Most of them seem like people I'd enjoy hanging out with, Willow and Edan being the exception. The world G inhabits, the mundane technological Earth, balances nicely with the magick laced the sacred.
A more thorough proofing is needed. There are several spelling/grammar errors, though most were homophones, and are easy to skim over. It is my guess, based on these errors, that English is the author's secondary or tertiary language.
Iturrioz has woven a wonderful story that kept me engaged, and I'm looking forward to the next one. It's very easy for me to overlook technical errors, so long as the soul is poured into a work. Iturrioz has much prose, and I'm interested to see this author author grow as a crafter of tales.
Seasons Within by Lele Iturrioz is a classic tale of the balance between life and death, growth and entropy, of resurrection and rebirth. G was abandoned as a young child, with only a locket with the letter 'G’ on it. She has no clear memory of who she is or where she came from. Nightmares of war plague her, as do ferocious migraines. She is an usual girl, with an affinity for working with animals, and an ingrained love of nature.
When a new teacher arrives at the school G attends, her life turns a great deal stranger. She thinks there’s more to Mr Blau than meets the eye and becomes certain he knows more about her past. She tries to pry the information from him, but makes no real headway until the day when Synthia, G's school tormentor, rips the locket from her neck. The consequences of that ill-fated action are many, resulting, among other things, with G being rescued by Blau and needing to run for her life. On the bright side, she has best friend Priyam along. Both are orphans with no real future in the small town of Truckee. Now, with an enemy close to hand, and another stalking her, G must trust these people to keep her safe.
I really enjoyed this story and its potential, for all that the theme is a fairly common one among fantasy. I loved the group Blau takes G to. Most of them seem like people I'd enjoy hanging out with, Willow and Edan being the exception. The world G inhabits, the mundane technological Earth, balances nicely with the magick laced the sacred.
A more thorough proofing is needed. There are several spelling/grammar errors, though most were homophones, and are easy to skim over. It is my guess, based on these errors, that English is the author's secondary or tertiary language.
Iturrioz has woven a wonderful story that kept me engaged, and I'm looking forward to the next one. It's very easy for me to overlook technical errors, so long as the soul is poured into a work. Iturrioz has much prose, and I'm interested to see this author author grow as a crafter of tales.
February 7, 2017
G grew up in an orphanage and has no memory of her life before the age of six when she was abandon. Over time her memories start to come back to her in increments but very slowly. G loves nature, she loves being outside with all the trees, plants and animals. One of her best friends is a tree named Bobby. G is one with nature.
G has a necklace that she has had ever since she can remember and one day it is ripped from her neck and all her protection is gone. She is then taken away by her new teacher and some more people who she learns later are all there to help and to keep her safe from the people who are hunting her and want her dead.
Things start to change for G in a big way for her after that. She doesn’t know what is going on or what is happening to her as she has no control over it yet. G soon learns that she has powers and can control the elements upon eighteenth birthday.
G is a very strong willed girl who likes doing things her own way but at the same time she has a very big heart and never wants to hurt anyone. G would do anything to keep the people that she loves and cares about safe even if that means putting her own life in danger.
G wants to be like any other girl her age and live a life just like other girls her age but when she finds out who she is and what she has to do she doesn’t hesitate to do her duty for her people. But she is afraid that she may not be the right person for the job or that she can’t do it.
I really enjoyed reading Seasons Within and about G with her being Mother Nature and Goddess Gaia. I love reading stories about the Gods and Goddess and how their lives may have been. I loved the world that the author has created in Seasons Within. I love how all the characters will put their own loves in jeopardy before anyone else’s. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and find out more about G’s life and what will happen to her and all her friends. If you haven’t read Seasons Within then let me suggest that you do.
G has a necklace that she has had ever since she can remember and one day it is ripped from her neck and all her protection is gone. She is then taken away by her new teacher and some more people who she learns later are all there to help and to keep her safe from the people who are hunting her and want her dead.
Things start to change for G in a big way for her after that. She doesn’t know what is going on or what is happening to her as she has no control over it yet. G soon learns that she has powers and can control the elements upon eighteenth birthday.
G is a very strong willed girl who likes doing things her own way but at the same time she has a very big heart and never wants to hurt anyone. G would do anything to keep the people that she loves and cares about safe even if that means putting her own life in danger.
G wants to be like any other girl her age and live a life just like other girls her age but when she finds out who she is and what she has to do she doesn’t hesitate to do her duty for her people. But she is afraid that she may not be the right person for the job or that she can’t do it.
I really enjoyed reading Seasons Within and about G with her being Mother Nature and Goddess Gaia. I love reading stories about the Gods and Goddess and how their lives may have been. I loved the world that the author has created in Seasons Within. I love how all the characters will put their own loves in jeopardy before anyone else’s. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and find out more about G’s life and what will happen to her and all her friends. If you haven’t read Seasons Within then let me suggest that you do.
September 12, 2018
Seasons Within by Lele Iturrioz is the first book in the Seasons Within series. G is an orphan and has no recollection of who she is or where she came from.
For me, this story was full of inconsistencies. The grammatical errors, which is to be expected with an ARC, was just far too much even for an ARC. I'm not sure if this book was self-published, but I don't think English is the author's first language. With that being said, this book has potential. Hopefully the next book will be properly edited.
I won this book in a giveaway and all opinions are my own.
For me, this story was full of inconsistencies. The grammatical errors, which is to be expected with an ARC, was just far too much even for an ARC. I'm not sure if this book was self-published, but I don't think English is the author's first language. With that being said, this book has potential. Hopefully the next book will be properly edited.
I won this book in a giveaway and all opinions are my own.
February 2, 2017
I loved this book, it's so different to all we are acostumed, the characters are amazingly developed and you instantly connect with at least one. The story also captivates, you can feel the joy, the stress and also the fear. Can't wait to read the whole saga! =)
December 7, 2016
It was amazing, I couldn't stop reading it, kept me wanting to know more about G's life.... such powerful characters, very interesting how they interact and how they each have their own story.
September 26, 2017
At the end of the year, I ambitiously signed up for several blog tours scheduled for the beginning of the year and had planned to start them the first week of the year. However, that was before I took the detour of reading The Darkest Minds, which resulted in me devouring the series without reading any of the books I had planned to read and review or posting anything to my blog until now. Happy New Year everyone!
While I don't plan to post reviews of The Darkest Minds books, because I have so many other books on my TBR list to review. I will tell you that the detour was well worth it! But moving on to Seasons Within...
I wish the rest of the books in this series were already released. If they were, I would be devouring them before moving on to the other books that I signed up to review. As you might have noticed, if you have read any of my previous posts, I have a tendency of requesting books to review or for blog tours like this one, then by the time I get to actually read the book, I forgot what it was about and why I requested it. If you haven't noticed this pattern, know that the struggle is real.
I tell you this so that you understand that I started reading this book blind. I didn't read the description to refresh myself on the book before starting to read. Needless to say, I went in not knowing what to expect. So, with the first page, heck, the first sentence clued me in a little:
Dust: Everything was covered in dust and ashes.
The next note I made about this book was a couple of chapters in, and I just had to point out how strange it is that other countries use the words "on" and "in" in different context than we do in America. For example, in chapter 4, the main character says "I never pictured him on a house," while I would have said "I never pictured him in a house." I actually thought the first couple of instances were typos, but I actually read a really interesting infographic the other day that cleared this up for me. I digress... Sorry! Now, on to the actual review of the book...
Overall, this was a great story! The author was great at world building and coming up with a unique plot for the story. I am definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next!
However, I must point out that G did some things that really irritated me. I don't want to give away too many spoilers, but for starters, I know she is supposed to be kind of reckless, and that's part of her personality, but seriously? How much of a sign do you need to realize that you should probably try to be more careful?
Also, I have to chime in about the love interest. Again, I'm trying to hold back so that I don't give too much away, but goodness, this girl drove me crazy with her romantic interest. This took a little bit away from what was otherwise an AWESOME story. When you have what is supposed to be a strong, independent, yet quirky female main character that has a complete meltdown when she finally realizes that those weird feelings she's getting are infatuation with a boy, and she has a complete meltdown, it takes away from her being that strong, independent female. I know that some people will love the romantic aspect to this story, but IMO, I hate when authors build awesome worlds with strong characters, only to turn them into complete idiots when it comes to their love interest.
Sorry, I always have to add my little rant, no matter how good the book is. It always gets me! However, please do not let this tidbit deter you from reading this book. Everything except my pet peeve explained above was great! My only other disappointment was that I have to wait to see what happens next! I will definitely be waiting not so patiently for the sequel!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Click here to visit the blog tour and giveaway!
While I don't plan to post reviews of The Darkest Minds books, because I have so many other books on my TBR list to review. I will tell you that the detour was well worth it! But moving on to Seasons Within...
I wish the rest of the books in this series were already released. If they were, I would be devouring them before moving on to the other books that I signed up to review. As you might have noticed, if you have read any of my previous posts, I have a tendency of requesting books to review or for blog tours like this one, then by the time I get to actually read the book, I forgot what it was about and why I requested it. If you haven't noticed this pattern, know that the struggle is real.
I tell you this so that you understand that I started reading this book blind. I didn't read the description to refresh myself on the book before starting to read. Needless to say, I went in not knowing what to expect. So, with the first page, heck, the first sentence clued me in a little:
Dust: Everything was covered in dust and ashes.
The next note I made about this book was a couple of chapters in, and I just had to point out how strange it is that other countries use the words "on" and "in" in different context than we do in America. For example, in chapter 4, the main character says "I never pictured him on a house," while I would have said "I never pictured him in a house." I actually thought the first couple of instances were typos, but I actually read a really interesting infographic the other day that cleared this up for me. I digress... Sorry! Now, on to the actual review of the book...
Overall, this was a great story! The author was great at world building and coming up with a unique plot for the story. I am definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next!
However, I must point out that G did some things that really irritated me. I don't want to give away too many spoilers, but for starters, I know she is supposed to be kind of reckless, and that's part of her personality, but seriously? How much of a sign do you need to realize that you should probably try to be more careful?
Also, I have to chime in about the love interest. Again, I'm trying to hold back so that I don't give too much away, but goodness, this girl drove me crazy with her romantic interest. This took a little bit away from what was otherwise an AWESOME story. When you have what is supposed to be a strong, independent, yet quirky female main character that has a complete meltdown when she finally realizes that those weird feelings she's getting are infatuation with a boy, and she has a complete meltdown, it takes away from her being that strong, independent female. I know that some people will love the romantic aspect to this story, but IMO, I hate when authors build awesome worlds with strong characters, only to turn them into complete idiots when it comes to their love interest.
Sorry, I always have to add my little rant, no matter how good the book is. It always gets me! However, please do not let this tidbit deter you from reading this book. Everything except my pet peeve explained above was great! My only other disappointment was that I have to wait to see what happens next! I will definitely be waiting not so patiently for the sequel!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Click here to visit the blog tour and giveaway!
July 31, 2018
Absolutely brilliant!!
I adore the relationships we see building, and can’t wait to see where they all go from here! So many interactions between the characters that are progressing, whilst still being intriguing and mysterious.
This book has made me laugh, smile, cry and groan in frustration.
By far my favourite YA Fiction read of the year so far! I enjoyed every single page and couldn’t put it down, so I read it in one sitting, staying up until now (not far off 1am) to write my review while everything was fresh in my head.
I love the various relationships (friendly, romantic, whatever they may be!). G and Priyam are brilliantly done, I love their bond and obvious love for one another, I guessed at Shui and Veter but I still throughly enjoyed the playing and building of them.
Ethan, well. i adore him, I hate him, he’s entertaining, and I want to slap some sense into him. I NEED to know what happened!! So many questions, and I am massively Eager to get the answers!
I loved the conclusion, just enough wow and shock factor to be impressive. I cried, and then swore for the Authors sneakery 😂😂
Willow makes me want to kick her. Hard. She’s so Frustratingly bitchy. But at the same time I totally get why, and feel a bit sorry for her.
Basically, every character makes the reader feel something for them, and I quickly grew attached to each one for whatever reason, even Synthia.
This was fun, Fast paced, kept me guessing and had plenty of action, A romance element, Magic.... seriously. What else can a person WANT from a Novel?!
The worlds are very well done, and I am in love with this story line so far! An original Fantasy adventure with a believable source of magic. I have enjoyed every page immensely and can’t wait to get ahold of the next instalment!
I adore the relationships we see building, and can’t wait to see where they all go from here! So many interactions between the characters that are progressing, whilst still being intriguing and mysterious.
This book has made me laugh, smile, cry and groan in frustration.
By far my favourite YA Fiction read of the year so far! I enjoyed every single page and couldn’t put it down, so I read it in one sitting, staying up until now (not far off 1am) to write my review while everything was fresh in my head.
I love the various relationships (friendly, romantic, whatever they may be!). G and Priyam are brilliantly done, I love their bond and obvious love for one another, I guessed at Shui and Veter but I still throughly enjoyed the playing and building of them.
Ethan, well. i adore him, I hate him, he’s entertaining, and I want to slap some sense into him. I NEED to know what happened!! So many questions, and I am massively Eager to get the answers!
I loved the conclusion, just enough wow and shock factor to be impressive. I cried, and then swore for the Authors sneakery 😂😂
Willow makes me want to kick her. Hard. She’s so Frustratingly bitchy. But at the same time I totally get why, and feel a bit sorry for her.
Basically, every character makes the reader feel something for them, and I quickly grew attached to each one for whatever reason, even Synthia.
This was fun, Fast paced, kept me guessing and had plenty of action, A romance element, Magic.... seriously. What else can a person WANT from a Novel?!
The worlds are very well done, and I am in love with this story line so far! An original Fantasy adventure with a believable source of magic. I have enjoyed every page immensely and can’t wait to get ahold of the next instalment!
January 20, 2022
Hace mucho no leía un libro de fantasía pero siempre he admirado la capacidad del autor de crear un mundo ficticio que al mismo tiempo se alinea con la realidad cobrando mucho sentido.
La autora logra crear un mundo maravilloso, lleno de historia y magia que logra cautivar al lector pero, a mi parecer, no logra hilarlo con la realidad por lo que no dejó que me pudiera sumergir de todo en la historia. Las situaciones que pasaban en Truckee, las actitudes de los personajes, las temporalidades de la historia, no se sentían para nada realistas ni lógicas lo cual me causó mucho conflicto y solo me dejaba pensando en el orden lógico que debería llevar. El inicio me pareció muy bien y el misterio logró atraparme pero conforme va avanzando la historia yo esperaba un mejor desarrollo de los personajes. La historia está llena de clichés y, a pesar de que a mí me encantan los clichés hasta cierto punto, siento que no seguían una forma lógica sino que era cliché sobre cliché sobre cliché. La segunda mitad del libro me pareció muy apresurada y sentí que se le puso haber sacado mayor jugo a la historia. Esto sumado a los errores gramaticales me impide darle más estrellas ya que fueron aspectos que me distraían mucho y no me permitían dejarme llevar por la historia.
Aún así me gustó mucho la historia del mundo de Terra y la incorporación de los elementos y su importancia en la naturaleza. Me hubiera gustado que el libro me hubiera dado más respuestas porque el final no lo sentí como un buen cierre. Yo se que hay una segunda parte, pero en cualquier trilogía se necesita aunque sea un pequeño sentimiento de cierre y preguntas contestadas, cosa que no tuve.
La autora logra crear un mundo maravilloso, lleno de historia y magia que logra cautivar al lector pero, a mi parecer, no logra hilarlo con la realidad por lo que no dejó que me pudiera sumergir de todo en la historia. Las situaciones que pasaban en Truckee, las actitudes de los personajes, las temporalidades de la historia, no se sentían para nada realistas ni lógicas lo cual me causó mucho conflicto y solo me dejaba pensando en el orden lógico que debería llevar. El inicio me pareció muy bien y el misterio logró atraparme pero conforme va avanzando la historia yo esperaba un mejor desarrollo de los personajes. La historia está llena de clichés y, a pesar de que a mí me encantan los clichés hasta cierto punto, siento que no seguían una forma lógica sino que era cliché sobre cliché sobre cliché. La segunda mitad del libro me pareció muy apresurada y sentí que se le puso haber sacado mayor jugo a la historia. Esto sumado a los errores gramaticales me impide darle más estrellas ya que fueron aspectos que me distraían mucho y no me permitían dejarme llevar por la historia.
Aún así me gustó mucho la historia del mundo de Terra y la incorporación de los elementos y su importancia en la naturaleza. Me hubiera gustado que el libro me hubiera dado más respuestas porque el final no lo sentí como un buen cierre. Yo se que hay una segunda parte, pero en cualquier trilogía se necesita aunque sea un pequeño sentimiento de cierre y preguntas contestadas, cosa que no tuve.
February 6, 2017
Check out the review on my blog for a chance to win the giveaway: https://erubooksandrecs.wordpress.com...
First thing first, I really love the cover of the book. But that wasn't the reason why I was drawn to this book. This is the reason:
When she meets her new Chemistry professor, a man with an uncanny resemblance to the boy who saves her, she knows there must be more to her dreams.
Yes, yes, so sue me for loving that cliche. But don't worry, there are no mushy romance in this book. What you can definitely expect though are scenes that will make you laugh. Because seriously, it caught me by surprise how funny it was.
Of course, there is one thing that I'm not really fond of. Okay, maybe that's not the right word, but I can't find one that fits at the moment. I think all this tension between G and Edan is a bit confusing/ doesn't really flow smoothly
Apart from that, I really enjoyed this book. I rate it 3.5 / 5 stars.
First thing first, I really love the cover of the book. But that wasn't the reason why I was drawn to this book. This is the reason:
When she meets her new Chemistry professor, a man with an uncanny resemblance to the boy who saves her, she knows there must be more to her dreams.
Yes, yes, so sue me for loving that cliche. But don't worry, there are no mushy romance in this book. What you can definitely expect though are scenes that will make you laugh. Because seriously, it caught me by surprise how funny it was.
Of course, there is one thing that I'm not really fond of. Okay, maybe that's not the right word, but I can't find one that fits at the moment. I think all this tension between G and Edan is a bit confusing/ doesn't really flow smoothly
Apart from that, I really enjoyed this book. I rate it 3.5 / 5 stars.
November 17, 2018
Me encantó aún cuando lo leí en inglés y me tardé un poco para entenderlo bien, la historia al principio es mas bien explicativa, no se al principio explica mucho para introducirte al mundo de Terra.
Pero a la vez te mantiene intrigada porque hay secretos que aún no son revelados, también algo que se me hizo diferente fue el hecho de como aparecen los diálogos en la misma linea, no es como
- calla! - dijo fulanito.
y me confundía un poco pero no importa es solo acostumbrarme a esta forma de escritura.
Otro puntito que tal vez me pareció un poco raro y quiero echarle la culpa a que lo leí en inglés es que las partes de acción se acababan muy de repente sin más explicación.
Me encantó de todas formas!!! =) lo recomiendo
Pero a la vez te mantiene intrigada porque hay secretos que aún no son revelados, también algo que se me hizo diferente fue el hecho de como aparecen los diálogos en la misma linea, no es como
- calla! - dijo fulanito.
y me confundía un poco pero no importa es solo acostumbrarme a esta forma de escritura.
Otro puntito que tal vez me pareció un poco raro y quiero echarle la culpa a que lo leí en inglés es que las partes de acción se acababan muy de repente sin más explicación.
Me encantó de todas formas!!! =) lo recomiendo
September 3, 2017
G discovers that she's not alone as she thought. With her best friend Pryam at her side, they took a self discovery journey with new friends and a captivating Edan who swears to protect her for the incoming evil that "He" spreads everywhere.
Delightful story, adorable characters, and a brand new world to discover. This book makes you wonder about the way we treat the earth we live in. A gorgeous message for all.
It's hilarious the way Lele writes. You will love all Seasons Within represents. I won't lie to you, you'll be hooked up in the moment you open the book.
By the way, the cover is magnificent.
Delightful story, adorable characters, and a brand new world to discover. This book makes you wonder about the way we treat the earth we live in. A gorgeous message for all.
It's hilarious the way Lele writes. You will love all Seasons Within represents. I won't lie to you, you'll be hooked up in the moment you open the book.
By the way, the cover is magnificent.
April 3, 2018
Definitely a YA book.
It's a fantasy narrative like many others around, the same structure but a different leader. The characters are made with love but it doesn't make them weak or bad constructed, on the contrary, they are full of mysteries and so human. It's like a mix between "I'm number 4" and "Once upon a time". This saga accomplishes the "hero's journey" proposed by Joseph Campbell but with some jokes, childish reactions and juvenile loves.
This book has some grammatical mistakes and typos but doesn't change nor ruin the story.
If you like magic, fantasy and hero's plots... this is your next book.
It's a fantasy narrative like many others around, the same structure but a different leader. The characters are made with love but it doesn't make them weak or bad constructed, on the contrary, they are full of mysteries and so human. It's like a mix between "I'm number 4" and "Once upon a time". This saga accomplishes the "hero's journey" proposed by Joseph Campbell but with some jokes, childish reactions and juvenile loves.
This book has some grammatical mistakes and typos but doesn't change nor ruin the story.
If you like magic, fantasy and hero's plots... this is your next book.
August 19, 2018
Reading the first few pages I wasn't sure whether I was going to enjoy this but then it jumped ahead with a new direction and I was hooked. G is living in an orphanage with only her dreams giving her anything memories about her background and then a new teacher arrives at her school and things start getting crazy. This YA fantasy book has some fun characters, romance, humour, some creative twists and some great messages about caring for nature.
There are messages about friendship and loyalty so even if there might be some bits that are a little bit signposted I didn't mind because the plot has energy, the characters are a good blend and I am looking forward to the sequel.
There are messages about friendship and loyalty so even if there might be some bits that are a little bit signposted I didn't mind because the plot has energy, the characters are a good blend and I am looking forward to the sequel.
February 16, 2019
El mundo creado por Lelè Iturrioz, es increible al momento de imaginarlo, pues de ser una chica solitaria G.Conoce de repente su historia. Sin embargo, hay momentos en los que casi hace que me de un infarto como lectora. Porque uno de los personajes que se convertiran en favoritos casi lo matan.
Esta novela juvenil, es atractiva para diferentes edades.
Te puedes identificar con los personajes, por su buena estructura.
Espero con gran entusiasmo Primavera, esta segunda parte de la saga Terra.
Esta novela juvenil, es atractiva para diferentes edades.
Te puedes identificar con los personajes, por su buena estructura.
Espero con gran entusiasmo Primavera, esta segunda parte de la saga Terra.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2017
Amazing book!, it literally has everything: romance, action, mystery. I really recommend it, it's the type of book that hooks you and you have to keep reading because your mind begs you to, it's really easy to read and it helps you to take your mind of the real world and all your problems by taking you to a little trip to fantasy. if you do read it, i hope you love it as much as i did.
October 3, 2017
The world of Terra is fabulous, a place where we all want to live.
It seems super interesting the theme of the book, because new worlds is an exciting thing, but the fact that the protagonist does not remember her name and has a great mission ahead as "mother nature" makes you sting and even reread more than once.
An excellent job.
It seems super interesting the theme of the book, because new worlds is an exciting thing, but the fact that the protagonist does not remember her name and has a great mission ahead as "mother nature" makes you sting and even reread more than once.
An excellent job.
June 1, 2019
This book seemed like it was fun to write, but I just couldn’t get into it. I don’t know, everything worked out too easily, there wasn’t any real mystery left unsolved for more than a chapter, there were too many inside jokes. It must have been a fun book to write, I could see it, but not enough for me to be absorbed.
July 24, 2017
What can I say about this book? I just loved it, there's not enough words for me to describe how much I loved it. It brought me so much joy and happiness! It's a fun read, please do it, you won't regret it.
October 2, 2017
I have the same book signed by the author, that and be a best friend of Adriana helped make it one of my favorites. The mystery that has enamora and leaves you wanting to always read one more chapter. I could not sleep until I finished.💖
August 11, 2018
There are some predictable plot devices at the beginning. It's hard to write a YA novel without at least some common themes. Pleasantly surprised that this author took those familiar ideas and wrote something original and engaging. I will read more!
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