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Felicity Gallant #1
Mistress of the Storm
Verity Gallant knows she'll never be as pretty and popular as Poppy, her perfect little sister - she doesn't quite fit in. But when a mysterious stranger hands her an ancient red book, everything changes.
Verity becomes embroiled in a tale of dark magic and intrigue; she uncovers old rivalries and discovers new friends. Together, she, Henry and Martha explore the secrets stirring in the ancient harbour town of Wellow.
But what will it take to stop a powerful witch hell-bent on revenge?
Verity becomes embroiled in a tale of dark magic and intrigue; she uncovers old rivalries and discovers new friends. Together, she, Henry and Martha explore the secrets stirring in the ancient harbour town of Wellow.
But what will it take to stop a powerful witch hell-bent on revenge?
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 24, 2012
Felicity Gallant ist eine Außenseiterin. Ihre Abenteuer erlebt sie mit den Büchern, die sie liest, denn in ihrem Heimatstädtchen Wellow hat sie keine Freunde und etwas Aufregendes passiert auch nicht. Eines Tages erwischt sie einen geheimnisvollen Fremden, der ein Buch aus der kleinen Bibliothek stehlen will. Felicity verfolgt ihn und der Fremde übergibt ihr das Buch und eine Holzkugel. Mit der Prophezeiung, dass die ‚Sturmwolke‘ käme, verschwindet er aus ihrem Leben. Plötzlich findet sich Felicity in ihrem eigenen Abenteuer wieder und es ist an ihr das Geheimnis um das sagenumwobene Schiff ‚Sturmwolke‘ und ihrer Familie zu lösen.
Ein zeitloses Jugendbuch, dass das Herz von Abenteurerinnen höher schlagen lässt. Das Buch ist spannend und manchmal auch ein wenig unheimlich. Der Spannungsbogen ist so schön aufgebaut, dass man das Buch gegen Ende nicht aus der Hand legen möchte. Die Charaktere sind liebevoll beschrieben und man muss mit Felicity mitleiden, wenn sie in der Schule geärgert wird oder ihre Großmutter sie schikaniert und mit boshaften Bemerkungen verletzt. Felicity mausert sich von der Außenseiterin, die niemand mag, zu einer kleinen Heldin, die Freunde findet, auf die sie sich verlassen kann. Ihr rothaariger dicklicher Ritter Henry Twogood, die belesene Martha und der verlässliche Jeb stehen ihr mit Rat und Tat zur Seite, als die gruselige Großmutter die Regie im Hause Gallant übernimmt. Besonders positiv empfand ich die Entwicklung der Charaktere und das die Kinder auch verbündete Erwachsene finden.
Das Buch ist genau das richtige für junge Mädchen, die von Piraten, Geheimnissen und Abenteuern träumen. Ich hoffe sehr, dass ich nicht lange auf die Fortsetzung warten muss.
Ein zeitloses Jugendbuch, dass das Herz von Abenteurerinnen höher schlagen lässt. Das Buch ist spannend und manchmal auch ein wenig unheimlich. Der Spannungsbogen ist so schön aufgebaut, dass man das Buch gegen Ende nicht aus der Hand legen möchte. Die Charaktere sind liebevoll beschrieben und man muss mit Felicity mitleiden, wenn sie in der Schule geärgert wird oder ihre Großmutter sie schikaniert und mit boshaften Bemerkungen verletzt. Felicity mausert sich von der Außenseiterin, die niemand mag, zu einer kleinen Heldin, die Freunde findet, auf die sie sich verlassen kann. Ihr rothaariger dicklicher Ritter Henry Twogood, die belesene Martha und der verlässliche Jeb stehen ihr mit Rat und Tat zur Seite, als die gruselige Großmutter die Regie im Hause Gallant übernimmt. Besonders positiv empfand ich die Entwicklung der Charaktere und das die Kinder auch verbündete Erwachsene finden.
Das Buch ist genau das richtige für junge Mädchen, die von Piraten, Geheimnissen und Abenteuern träumen. Ich hoffe sehr, dass ich nicht lange auf die Fortsetzung warten muss.
May 25, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. The story draws you in and pulls you along until the breathtaking conclusion. I found myself thinking about this book when I wasn't reading it, and anticipating what would happen to Verity next.
I loved the incorporation of magic into Verity's world. The author made it seem entirely natural and not at all shoe-horned in for the sake of plot conveniences.
At the heart of this story is a girl who is looking for a place where she belongs, which makes this fantastical story easy to relate to.
Lastly, I would love to travel to the town of Wellow. I also recommend that people who are hesitant about this book to give it a try. Happy reading!
I loved the incorporation of magic into Verity's world. The author made it seem entirely natural and not at all shoe-horned in for the sake of plot conveniences.
At the heart of this story is a girl who is looking for a place where she belongs, which makes this fantastical story easy to relate to.
Lastly, I would love to travel to the town of Wellow. I also recommend that people who are hesitant about this book to give it a try. Happy reading!
February 12, 2013
This book wavers between normal and a weird fairytale or maybe I should say, a legend. It starts very slowly and I was very confused until I was well into the book and then it picked up some. The story also falls short of its potential.
Verity lives in an ancient harbor town set on an English island where the local people were smugglers and wreckers for centuries. There are a lot of stories that have been passed down. Verity is unpopular with her classmates but finally does make 2 friends. Her world starts to disintegrate and slowly she comes to realize that she is in the middle of a new story and that there is something expected of her.
Verity lives in an ancient harbor town set on an English island where the local people were smugglers and wreckers for centuries. There are a lot of stories that have been passed down. Verity is unpopular with her classmates but finally does make 2 friends. Her world starts to disintegrate and slowly she comes to realize that she is in the middle of a new story and that there is something expected of her.
September 11, 2013
Wow. Hat mir wirklich sehr gut gefallen :) Muss unbedingt das zweite Buch lesen! :)
June 21, 2017
So, hm. I'm usually pretty lax with my book ratings, but I just can't say I really liked this one that much. I didn't *dislike* it, either, but it was a bit difficult to get through it at times. I liked the parts which just focused on Verity's story, and I found the core cast of characters to be quite likable (and The Mistress to be detestable, which works in her favor since she is the villain). I cheered for Verity throughout the whole thing.
But I have a few issues with the book, namely that there are too many stinkin' characters and I cannot for the life of me keep them all straight. I didn't like how the author would focus on Verity for a chapter, then switch perspectives to these random, oftentimes new, characters that I didn't care about. The perspective switching and large cast also made the story difficult to follow sometimes. I think the author was trying to make the world seem broader, but it just ended up muddling the writing, in my opinion. It would have been better if the story was more straightforward, I think. The beginning of the story was also really slow and kind of boring; it took about 80 pages before I started getting interested in anything.
All in all, just okay. I can't really recommend it to anyone in particular. Maybe younger readers who are interested in sailing, I dunno. At least the cover is really pretty.
But I have a few issues with the book, namely that there are too many stinkin' characters and I cannot for the life of me keep them all straight. I didn't like how the author would focus on Verity for a chapter, then switch perspectives to these random, oftentimes new, characters that I didn't care about. The perspective switching and large cast also made the story difficult to follow sometimes. I think the author was trying to make the world seem broader, but it just ended up muddling the writing, in my opinion. It would have been better if the story was more straightforward, I think. The beginning of the story was also really slow and kind of boring; it took about 80 pages before I started getting interested in anything.
All in all, just okay. I can't really recommend it to anyone in particular. Maybe younger readers who are interested in sailing, I dunno. At least the cover is really pretty.
October 20, 2013
Inhalt:
Wenn Geschichten Wirklichkeit werden! In dem Schmugglerstädtchen Wellow lebt die unscheinbare Felicity, die sich gern in die Welt der Bücher zurückzieht. Als ein geheimnisvoller Fremder ihr ein Buch über die bösartige Hüterin des Windes überreicht, vermischen sich für Felicity bald Erzählung und Realität. Eine mysteriöse Großmutter taucht auf, und gemeinsam mit ihren Freunden Henry und Martha kommt Felicity einem grausamen Familiengeheimnis auf die Spur. (AMAZON)
Schreibstil:
Melanie Welshs Schreibstil schmeckt nach Salzwasser und riecht nach rauer Seeluft. Beim Durchblättern der Seiten kommt ein frischer Seewind auf, denn die Autorin schreibt schnell, flüssig, zusammenhängend und leicht. Sie baut nicht zu viele Details, aber auch nicht zu wenige ein und lässt die Geschichte dahinrollen wie eine kleine Welle, die sanft aufs Festland zukommt. Die Worte sind so klar wie sauberes Wasser und weil es ein abenteuerliches Kinder- / Jugendbuch ist, auch nicht anspruchsvoll. Durch den leichten Schreibstil kann eine lockere Atmosphäre geschaffen werden, die den Leser in das Buch hineinzieht.
Meine Meinung:
Mit diesem Abenteuerroman hat Melanie Welsh eine für mich noch völlig unbekannte und neue Art von Fantasy erfunden. Bücher, die in Richtung Seefahrt und Schiffe gehen, habe ich früher nicht mal angerührt, bis ich meinen inneren Schweinehund überwinden konnte und mir dieses Buch im Rahmen einer Lovelybooks-Leserunde zugeschickt wurde.
Die Spannung im Buch hat sich kontinuierlich aufgebaut, sodass es mir beim Lesen fast nie langweilig geworden ist. Zwar hatte ich am Anfang eher das Gefühl, von einem unscheinbaren Schulmädchen zu lesen, dass ständig nur gemobbt wird, statt von einer Fantasy-Abenteuer-Geschichte, aber als dann nach einiger Zeit die fantastischen Elemente doch ein wenig durchschimmerten, hat mir das Buch doch ein wenig mehr Spaß bereitet. Jedoch muss ich sagen, dass die ganze Geschichte um die Großmutter und das Familiengeheimnis noch ziemlich unausgereift ist und keinen richtigen roten Faden hatte, dem man hinterherlaufen konnte. Mir wurden immer nur kleine Stückchen hingeworfen, die zwar am Ende irgendwann zusammenschmolzen, aber trotzdem keinen richtig festen Handlungsstrang hatten und ziemlich durchsichtig wirkten. Das empfohlene Lesealter liegt bei 11 Jahren, deshalb konnte ich in diesem Fall auch mal auf eine gut und exakt ausgebaute Fantasygeschichte verzichten und einfach Spaß haben. Für kleinere Leser ist dieses Buch demnach - wie ich finde - ein absolutes Muss. Es ist nicht zu grausam und nicht zu langweilig. Anspruchslose und leichte Unterhaltungslektüre für Jung und Alt.
Felicity Gallant ist - wieder einmal - eines dieser unscheinbaren, durchsichtigen Mädchen, die nirgendwo dazugehört und sich immer in eine einsame Ecke verkriecht. Sie wird in der Schule gehänselt, ausgelacht und beschimpft. Durch den guten Schreibstil der Autorin konnte man sich sehr gut mit ihr identifizieren und in ihre Gefühlswelt eintauchen. Die Protagonistin ist ein Mädchen von der stillen Sorte, die aber zu sich steht und nie aufgibt. Sie stellt sich den Gefahren und dem Bösen, das ihr direkt ins Auge blickt. Sie bleibt stark und versucht, alles zu beschützen, was ihr lieb ist und genauso das ist es, was sie für mich so symphatisch gemacht hat und im Laufe des Buches gewinnt Felicity immer mehr an Selbstvertrauen und auch an neuen Freunden.
Einer dieser guten Freunde ist zum Beispiel Henry. Er ist kein Held und er ist auch nicht perfekt - er ist genauso wie Felicity. Schüchtern und unscheinbar und genau diese Eigenschaften sind es, die die beiden als beste Freunde zusammenbringen. Die Kinder entwickeln im Laufe der Geschichte einen unglaublichen Zusammenhalt und zeigen, was wahre Freundschaft wirklich ist. Mir hat auch sehr gefallen, dass Melanie Welsh die Kinder nicht als perfekt und makellos hingestellt hat, sondern ganz normal, ohne besonderes Aussehen, mit vielen Macken und Fehlern. Genauso wie Protagonisten in einem Buch für mich sein sollten. Symphatisch, liebenswert, herzallerliebt und eine gewisse Vorbildfunktion für die jüngeren Leser sollten sie auch haben.
Noch ein unausgereifter, undurchdachter Punkt, der mir aufgefallen ist, war, dass die Stadt Wellow, in der Felicity und ihre Freunde leben, wie ein altes Küstenstädtchen beschrieben wurde. Mit Anlegestellen für Schiffe, mit Piraten, alten Familiengeheimnissen, die Bibliothek und generell diese eher altmodische Atmosphäre, die im Buch geherrscht hat. Das wäre zwar alles schön und gut aber da passt für mich nun überhaupt nicht ins Bild, wenn da auf einmal Autos herumfahren. Wenn die Geschichte schon in einem alten Küstenstädtchen spielt, dann sollten die Verhältnisse dort auch entsprechend sein.
Fazit:
Ein insgesamt solides Abenteuer-Buch mit zwar noch unausgereifter Handlung aber mit symphatischen Charakteren, die das Thema Freundschaft perfekt auf den Punkt bringen. Felicity Gallant ist für Jung und Alt ab elf Jahren. Durch das niedrige Leseempfehlungsalter kommt das Buch noch um die schlechtere Punktzahl herum, denn jüngeren Lesern wird der erste Teil "Felicity Gallant und das Auge des Sturms" garantiert Spaß machen und mehr Lust auf Lesen vermitteln. Ältere Leser hingegen sollten sich nicht zu viel von den 319 Seiten versprechen.
Wenn Geschichten Wirklichkeit werden! In dem Schmugglerstädtchen Wellow lebt die unscheinbare Felicity, die sich gern in die Welt der Bücher zurückzieht. Als ein geheimnisvoller Fremder ihr ein Buch über die bösartige Hüterin des Windes überreicht, vermischen sich für Felicity bald Erzählung und Realität. Eine mysteriöse Großmutter taucht auf, und gemeinsam mit ihren Freunden Henry und Martha kommt Felicity einem grausamen Familiengeheimnis auf die Spur. (AMAZON)
Schreibstil:
Melanie Welshs Schreibstil schmeckt nach Salzwasser und riecht nach rauer Seeluft. Beim Durchblättern der Seiten kommt ein frischer Seewind auf, denn die Autorin schreibt schnell, flüssig, zusammenhängend und leicht. Sie baut nicht zu viele Details, aber auch nicht zu wenige ein und lässt die Geschichte dahinrollen wie eine kleine Welle, die sanft aufs Festland zukommt. Die Worte sind so klar wie sauberes Wasser und weil es ein abenteuerliches Kinder- / Jugendbuch ist, auch nicht anspruchsvoll. Durch den leichten Schreibstil kann eine lockere Atmosphäre geschaffen werden, die den Leser in das Buch hineinzieht.
Meine Meinung:
Mit diesem Abenteuerroman hat Melanie Welsh eine für mich noch völlig unbekannte und neue Art von Fantasy erfunden. Bücher, die in Richtung Seefahrt und Schiffe gehen, habe ich früher nicht mal angerührt, bis ich meinen inneren Schweinehund überwinden konnte und mir dieses Buch im Rahmen einer Lovelybooks-Leserunde zugeschickt wurde.
Die Spannung im Buch hat sich kontinuierlich aufgebaut, sodass es mir beim Lesen fast nie langweilig geworden ist. Zwar hatte ich am Anfang eher das Gefühl, von einem unscheinbaren Schulmädchen zu lesen, dass ständig nur gemobbt wird, statt von einer Fantasy-Abenteuer-Geschichte, aber als dann nach einiger Zeit die fantastischen Elemente doch ein wenig durchschimmerten, hat mir das Buch doch ein wenig mehr Spaß bereitet. Jedoch muss ich sagen, dass die ganze Geschichte um die Großmutter und das Familiengeheimnis noch ziemlich unausgereift ist und keinen richtigen roten Faden hatte, dem man hinterherlaufen konnte. Mir wurden immer nur kleine Stückchen hingeworfen, die zwar am Ende irgendwann zusammenschmolzen, aber trotzdem keinen richtig festen Handlungsstrang hatten und ziemlich durchsichtig wirkten. Das empfohlene Lesealter liegt bei 11 Jahren, deshalb konnte ich in diesem Fall auch mal auf eine gut und exakt ausgebaute Fantasygeschichte verzichten und einfach Spaß haben. Für kleinere Leser ist dieses Buch demnach - wie ich finde - ein absolutes Muss. Es ist nicht zu grausam und nicht zu langweilig. Anspruchslose und leichte Unterhaltungslektüre für Jung und Alt.
Felicity Gallant ist - wieder einmal - eines dieser unscheinbaren, durchsichtigen Mädchen, die nirgendwo dazugehört und sich immer in eine einsame Ecke verkriecht. Sie wird in der Schule gehänselt, ausgelacht und beschimpft. Durch den guten Schreibstil der Autorin konnte man sich sehr gut mit ihr identifizieren und in ihre Gefühlswelt eintauchen. Die Protagonistin ist ein Mädchen von der stillen Sorte, die aber zu sich steht und nie aufgibt. Sie stellt sich den Gefahren und dem Bösen, das ihr direkt ins Auge blickt. Sie bleibt stark und versucht, alles zu beschützen, was ihr lieb ist und genauso das ist es, was sie für mich so symphatisch gemacht hat und im Laufe des Buches gewinnt Felicity immer mehr an Selbstvertrauen und auch an neuen Freunden.
Einer dieser guten Freunde ist zum Beispiel Henry. Er ist kein Held und er ist auch nicht perfekt - er ist genauso wie Felicity. Schüchtern und unscheinbar und genau diese Eigenschaften sind es, die die beiden als beste Freunde zusammenbringen. Die Kinder entwickeln im Laufe der Geschichte einen unglaublichen Zusammenhalt und zeigen, was wahre Freundschaft wirklich ist. Mir hat auch sehr gefallen, dass Melanie Welsh die Kinder nicht als perfekt und makellos hingestellt hat, sondern ganz normal, ohne besonderes Aussehen, mit vielen Macken und Fehlern. Genauso wie Protagonisten in einem Buch für mich sein sollten. Symphatisch, liebenswert, herzallerliebt und eine gewisse Vorbildfunktion für die jüngeren Leser sollten sie auch haben.
Noch ein unausgereifter, undurchdachter Punkt, der mir aufgefallen ist, war, dass die Stadt Wellow, in der Felicity und ihre Freunde leben, wie ein altes Küstenstädtchen beschrieben wurde. Mit Anlegestellen für Schiffe, mit Piraten, alten Familiengeheimnissen, die Bibliothek und generell diese eher altmodische Atmosphäre, die im Buch geherrscht hat. Das wäre zwar alles schön und gut aber da passt für mich nun überhaupt nicht ins Bild, wenn da auf einmal Autos herumfahren. Wenn die Geschichte schon in einem alten Küstenstädtchen spielt, dann sollten die Verhältnisse dort auch entsprechend sein.
Fazit:
Ein insgesamt solides Abenteuer-Buch mit zwar noch unausgereifter Handlung aber mit symphatischen Charakteren, die das Thema Freundschaft perfekt auf den Punkt bringen. Felicity Gallant ist für Jung und Alt ab elf Jahren. Durch das niedrige Leseempfehlungsalter kommt das Buch noch um die schlechtere Punktzahl herum, denn jüngeren Lesern wird der erste Teil "Felicity Gallant und das Auge des Sturms" garantiert Spaß machen und mehr Lust auf Lesen vermitteln. Ältere Leser hingegen sollten sich nicht zu viel von den 319 Seiten versprechen.
December 28, 2021
I really liked this story. It drew you in and kept you cheering for Verity and her friends. I also thought the idea of collected stories revealing a larger truth about the world was fascinating. I can't wait to see where the series goes next!
April 14, 2025
Poor Verity Gallent, she has trouble making friends and is very concerned about what other people think about her. Her grandmother, who she never heard of, unexpectedly comes to visit once they find out that her mom is having another child. Verity eventually meets Henry, who becomes a very kind and defending friend. Together they face the challenges that present themself due to Verity’s grandmother. I would recommend this book for people who like stories with magic and friendship.
August 28, 2010
Reviewed @ Girls Without a Bookshelf.
Mistress of the Storm is the perfect read for younger teens who enjoy a hearty dose of mystery and for those who are transitioning from children's book to young adult novels. Set in the small town of Wellow, Mistress of the storm follows the events of Verity Gallant's life following the day she finds a mysterious man handing her a red book.
The book is generally presented in three parts. I found the first part to be about introductions. The book spends a good number of pages introducing characters with importance to the plot. It was disorienting with so many characters being simultaneously presented, but as the book progresses one begins to understand their role better. More questions about the mystery is added here than answers. The combined effect was for me, a little confusing, but it does get better as the book progresses. The middle part reveals the history and the more magical side to the book. The thrill increases, and the characters undergo a lot more changes and interact more with each other. The third and final part is where the action occurs. I liked it particularly because this is where everything is unraveled and all questions are answered. It has elements of folklore, magic and the general theme of good against evil, which is what really led me to believe that Mistress of the Storm is a particularly good book for younger teens. It is still rooted in the magic that kids adore in children's book, but with a more edgy, more mature side that makes it close to a young adult book.
The characters in this book is well portrayed. Verity isn't a particularly strong girl - she does not seem to stand up to bullies and keeps to herself; but her flaws gives her the best platform to mature and her strength and courage becomes clear at the end of the book. It was easy to symphatise with her and feel outraged with the antagonists. I feel it will appeal even more to childres as they relate easier to the many colourful characters. All of the important characters were given their resolutions, one I feel strongly about. It shows how the book is neatly outlined. There were little surprises in this book, none of which are big twists in themselves. I must admit there were times where I felt the narrative dragged and could just have gone straight to the point. I am also partly unsure that some of the characters are particularly important. Not that I mind them being in the book, I simply think it could have done with less. Nonetheless, characters give this book variety so they do seem to have their purpose at least.
To those who'd enjoy mystery with a hint of magic, Mistress of the Storm is the book for you!
Mistress of the Storm is the perfect read for younger teens who enjoy a hearty dose of mystery and for those who are transitioning from children's book to young adult novels. Set in the small town of Wellow, Mistress of the storm follows the events of Verity Gallant's life following the day she finds a mysterious man handing her a red book.
The book is generally presented in three parts. I found the first part to be about introductions. The book spends a good number of pages introducing characters with importance to the plot. It was disorienting with so many characters being simultaneously presented, but as the book progresses one begins to understand their role better. More questions about the mystery is added here than answers. The combined effect was for me, a little confusing, but it does get better as the book progresses. The middle part reveals the history and the more magical side to the book. The thrill increases, and the characters undergo a lot more changes and interact more with each other. The third and final part is where the action occurs. I liked it particularly because this is where everything is unraveled and all questions are answered. It has elements of folklore, magic and the general theme of good against evil, which is what really led me to believe that Mistress of the Storm is a particularly good book for younger teens. It is still rooted in the magic that kids adore in children's book, but with a more edgy, more mature side that makes it close to a young adult book.
The characters in this book is well portrayed. Verity isn't a particularly strong girl - she does not seem to stand up to bullies and keeps to herself; but her flaws gives her the best platform to mature and her strength and courage becomes clear at the end of the book. It was easy to symphatise with her and feel outraged with the antagonists. I feel it will appeal even more to childres as they relate easier to the many colourful characters. All of the important characters were given their resolutions, one I feel strongly about. It shows how the book is neatly outlined. There were little surprises in this book, none of which are big twists in themselves. I must admit there were times where I felt the narrative dragged and could just have gone straight to the point. I am also partly unsure that some of the characters are particularly important. Not that I mind them being in the book, I simply think it could have done with less. Nonetheless, characters give this book variety so they do seem to have their purpose at least.
To those who'd enjoy mystery with a hint of magic, Mistress of the Storm is the book for you!
April 9, 2011
I totally fell for this book and its wonderful characters, haunting myths and fascinating setting. I honestly cannot recommend it enough!
The story is about Verity Gallant, who lives in Wellow, a small city near the ocean. She is awkward, too big for her age and spends her time reading so the other teenagers her age keep bullying and making fun of her. At home, her parents don't pay attention to her as much as she would like and she is often frustrated. But she has a great friendship with her younger and more popular sister. Verity finds refuge in books, adventure stories and her small library in Wellow.
One day, a complete stranger gives her a book, telling her "The Storm is coming" and Verity's entire life will change.
The characters are all awesome and reflect definitely what goes on in a small town where people refer to each other with the last names and the reputation of a family or disputes are kept from generation to generation. Verity is an amazing heroine and she will have to show her courage, strength and determination along the book. I just wanted to hug and help Verity during the entire book!
Sometimes, the setting of the book becomes a big part of the plot and I absolutely loved the setting in this one. You will learn what it is like to live in a seaside town, where boating is the main sport and everyone knows each other. The descriptions of the places were so brilliantly written that I swear I could feel the soothing rolling of the sea, the salty air and wind on my face. It definitely makes me want to go and have adventures *cough* visit the seaside!
The book is about family and friends, and I really loved the dynamic between the characters. Henry and Martha stand by Verity, and they will help her as much as they can, even though it would put them in danger too. The book is also about family but more particularly about how adults see children and vice versa.
One of the underlying themes is what is called the Gentry in the book (like pirates, but living on the coast to steal ship cargos), and how they rose to become a very strong and wealthy people - at a cost. The historical parts of the book are fascinating, and you really feel transported in another world. The fantasy part are very original and absolutely awesome. I really liked the feeling that it could be true and what is described as a story and a myth.
I absolutely loved this book! Younger readers will love the action and adventure feeling in it and the not-so-young readers will also love the setting and the characters. M. L. Welsh is a new author that I will definitely be following from now on!
The story is about Verity Gallant, who lives in Wellow, a small city near the ocean. She is awkward, too big for her age and spends her time reading so the other teenagers her age keep bullying and making fun of her. At home, her parents don't pay attention to her as much as she would like and she is often frustrated. But she has a great friendship with her younger and more popular sister. Verity finds refuge in books, adventure stories and her small library in Wellow.
One day, a complete stranger gives her a book, telling her "The Storm is coming" and Verity's entire life will change.
The characters are all awesome and reflect definitely what goes on in a small town where people refer to each other with the last names and the reputation of a family or disputes are kept from generation to generation. Verity is an amazing heroine and she will have to show her courage, strength and determination along the book. I just wanted to hug and help Verity during the entire book!
Sometimes, the setting of the book becomes a big part of the plot and I absolutely loved the setting in this one. You will learn what it is like to live in a seaside town, where boating is the main sport and everyone knows each other. The descriptions of the places were so brilliantly written that I swear I could feel the soothing rolling of the sea, the salty air and wind on my face. It definitely makes me want to go and have adventures *cough* visit the seaside!
The book is about family and friends, and I really loved the dynamic between the characters. Henry and Martha stand by Verity, and they will help her as much as they can, even though it would put them in danger too. The book is also about family but more particularly about how adults see children and vice versa.
One of the underlying themes is what is called the Gentry in the book (like pirates, but living on the coast to steal ship cargos), and how they rose to become a very strong and wealthy people - at a cost. The historical parts of the book are fascinating, and you really feel transported in another world. The fantasy part are very original and absolutely awesome. I really liked the feeling that it could be true and what is described as a story and a myth.
I absolutely loved this book! Younger readers will love the action and adventure feeling in it and the not-so-young readers will also love the setting and the characters. M. L. Welsh is a new author that I will definitely be following from now on!
August 21, 2012
In dem Schmugglerstädtchen Wellow lebt die unscheinbare Felicity, die sich gern in die Welt der Bücher zurückzieht. Als ein geheimnisvoller Fremder ihr ein Buch über die bösartige Hüterin des Windes überreicht, vermischen sich für Felicity bald Erzählung und Realität. Eine mysteriöse Großmutter taucht auf, und gemeinsam mit ihren Freunden Henry und Martha kommt Felicity einem grausamen Familiengeheimnis auf die Spur.
"Felicity Gallant und das Auge des Sturms" ist der erste Band der "Felicity Gallant"- Reihe aus der Feder von Melanie Welsh.
Mit viel Fantasie spinnt die Autorin eine wirklich schöne Geschichte, die vorallem jüngeren Lesern viel Freude bereiten wird; aber auch ältere Semester werden voll auf ihre Kosten kommen.
Der Altersempfehlung angemessen (11 Jahre), hat Melanie Welsh eine leicht düstere Atmosphäre erschaffen, in der das Meer eine wichtige Rolle spielt. Mit viel Spannung und kleineren phantastischen Elementen im Verbund, wurde ein Abenteuer geschaffen, das an die Wichtigkeit von Freundschaft und Zusammenhalt appelliert und diese Grundsätze den Lesern in Zusammenhang mit einer einzigartigen Handlung näher bringt.
"Felicity Gallant und das Auge des Sturms" mutet wie ein zeitloses Märchen an, da es ein Gefühl beschert, wie fernab von Raum und Zeit.
Man fühlt sich wohl in dieser Geschichte, denn sie beschert phantasievolle Lesestunden und weckt die Vorfreude auf weitere Bände dieser schönen Reihe, die auch ohne klassische Fantasy-Elemente zu überzeugen weiß.
Felicity erscheint nicht wie die typische Heldin. Und das ist auch gut so. Sie ist eine unscheinbare Außenseiterin, die nach und nach die Geschichte ihrer Familie aufdeckt und dabei in ein Abenteuer gerät, das schon seit langer Zeit elementarer Teil der Familiengeschichte ist. Begleitet wird sie dabei von ihren Freunden Henry, Martha und Jeb.
Diese vier Protagonisten wurden sehr sympathisch und facettenreich charakterisiert. Sie beweisen Zusammenhalt und vermitteln wichtige Moralvorstellungen des Lebens.
Auch die Nebencharaktere wurden ebenso interessant wie einfallsreich skizziert. Zusammen ergeben sie eine passende Menge an Personen, die sich perfekt in die Handlung einfügen und ein treffendes Gesamtbild erschaffen.
Melanie Welsh besitzt eine zeitlose Art zu schreiben, sodass Jung und Alt an diesem Schreibstil durchaus ihre Freude finden werden. Dabei fliegt der Leser förmlich durch die flüssig geschriebenen Sätze und erfährt nebenbei auch so einiges über das Segeln.
Durch die besondere Atmosphäre entsteht etwas Märchenhaftes, das sehr gut zur Geschichte passt.
"Felicity Gallant und das Auge des Sturms" ist der erste Band der "Felicity Gallant"- Reihe aus der Feder von Melanie Welsh.
Mit viel Fantasie spinnt die Autorin eine wirklich schöne Geschichte, die vorallem jüngeren Lesern viel Freude bereiten wird; aber auch ältere Semester werden voll auf ihre Kosten kommen.
Der Altersempfehlung angemessen (11 Jahre), hat Melanie Welsh eine leicht düstere Atmosphäre erschaffen, in der das Meer eine wichtige Rolle spielt. Mit viel Spannung und kleineren phantastischen Elementen im Verbund, wurde ein Abenteuer geschaffen, das an die Wichtigkeit von Freundschaft und Zusammenhalt appelliert und diese Grundsätze den Lesern in Zusammenhang mit einer einzigartigen Handlung näher bringt.
"Felicity Gallant und das Auge des Sturms" mutet wie ein zeitloses Märchen an, da es ein Gefühl beschert, wie fernab von Raum und Zeit.
Man fühlt sich wohl in dieser Geschichte, denn sie beschert phantasievolle Lesestunden und weckt die Vorfreude auf weitere Bände dieser schönen Reihe, die auch ohne klassische Fantasy-Elemente zu überzeugen weiß.
Felicity erscheint nicht wie die typische Heldin. Und das ist auch gut so. Sie ist eine unscheinbare Außenseiterin, die nach und nach die Geschichte ihrer Familie aufdeckt und dabei in ein Abenteuer gerät, das schon seit langer Zeit elementarer Teil der Familiengeschichte ist. Begleitet wird sie dabei von ihren Freunden Henry, Martha und Jeb.
Diese vier Protagonisten wurden sehr sympathisch und facettenreich charakterisiert. Sie beweisen Zusammenhalt und vermitteln wichtige Moralvorstellungen des Lebens.
Auch die Nebencharaktere wurden ebenso interessant wie einfallsreich skizziert. Zusammen ergeben sie eine passende Menge an Personen, die sich perfekt in die Handlung einfügen und ein treffendes Gesamtbild erschaffen.
Melanie Welsh besitzt eine zeitlose Art zu schreiben, sodass Jung und Alt an diesem Schreibstil durchaus ihre Freude finden werden. Dabei fliegt der Leser förmlich durch die flüssig geschriebenen Sätze und erfährt nebenbei auch so einiges über das Segeln.
Durch die besondere Atmosphäre entsteht etwas Märchenhaftes, das sehr gut zur Geschichte passt.
June 8, 2011
There's something so refreshing about reading a book aimed at a slightly younger audience that I'd normally read. And it was an absolute joy to read Mistress of the Storm by ML Walsh. In it, she created some lovely characters and story that had me captivated throughout.
Verity Gallant is a fab main character. Right from the beginning, I was able to relate to her, as she felt she lived in her sister's shadow and thought of herself as large and plain. Her mother has just announced that she is pregnant again and pays little attention to Verity. Picked on by local bullies, Verity is lonely and friendless and hides in the library and at the home of an elderly woman who tells her stories. My heart really went out to poor Verity.
One day, at the library, a stranger hands Verity a strange book and gives her this one cryptic message - 'The storm is coming.' With that, Verity's entire life changes as she begins to uncover the secrets of her seaside town, Wellow, and the secrets of her own family. When a grandmother that Verity never knew she had comes to stay, it becomes more apparent to Verity that bad things are at play. Through the book she has been given, Verity learns that the 'Mistress of the Storm' is an evil witch who can control the weather and the legend of this witch is tied into the local history of Wellow.
Can Verity stand and face such an evil and powerful witch that threatens the life that she leads, the family who she loves and the town in which she lives in? Luckily Verity isn't alone in this battle, as the bonds of friendship and loyalty with her two new friends, Henry and Martha are strong. I really, really loved how much friendship played a part in this book. Especially between Henry and Verity. Her friends give Verity such support and strength that she is able to be more confident when facing her fears.
I loved the seaside setting! The sailing and the sea lore and the history of piracy were all fascinating. Together with the strong characters, friendship, the element of storytelling and the fantasy aspects of the novel make this a wonderful, wonderful book! It's filled with action and suspense and a strong female character that willl make any reader cheer. Very highly recommended!
Verity Gallant is a fab main character. Right from the beginning, I was able to relate to her, as she felt she lived in her sister's shadow and thought of herself as large and plain. Her mother has just announced that she is pregnant again and pays little attention to Verity. Picked on by local bullies, Verity is lonely and friendless and hides in the library and at the home of an elderly woman who tells her stories. My heart really went out to poor Verity.
One day, at the library, a stranger hands Verity a strange book and gives her this one cryptic message - 'The storm is coming.' With that, Verity's entire life changes as she begins to uncover the secrets of her seaside town, Wellow, and the secrets of her own family. When a grandmother that Verity never knew she had comes to stay, it becomes more apparent to Verity that bad things are at play. Through the book she has been given, Verity learns that the 'Mistress of the Storm' is an evil witch who can control the weather and the legend of this witch is tied into the local history of Wellow.
Can Verity stand and face such an evil and powerful witch that threatens the life that she leads, the family who she loves and the town in which she lives in? Luckily Verity isn't alone in this battle, as the bonds of friendship and loyalty with her two new friends, Henry and Martha are strong. I really, really loved how much friendship played a part in this book. Especially between Henry and Verity. Her friends give Verity such support and strength that she is able to be more confident when facing her fears.
I loved the seaside setting! The sailing and the sea lore and the history of piracy were all fascinating. Together with the strong characters, friendship, the element of storytelling and the fantasy aspects of the novel make this a wonderful, wonderful book! It's filled with action and suspense and a strong female character that willl make any reader cheer. Very highly recommended!
January 10, 2012
Review Taken From The Pewter Wolf
When Verity Gallant walks into Wellow's library and discover a man reading a red leather book, crying, she had no idea about the events that would unfold. That the man would give the red leather book and a strange wooden ball. That The Storm would come to dock in the little harbour town. That Verity's Grandmother (who she didn't even know existed!) come to stay. That Verity will slowly discover her family history that her father has been desperate to hide. That Verity will discover the tale of the Mistress of the Storm...
This is a little outside of my "YA" comfort-zone (this is, to me, an book within the "8 to 12 years old" bracket) and there's something nice to read something that isn't so teen-driven.
It was a wonderful read. There was something old-fashioned about it and it's nice to read about a soon-to-be-teenager, Verity, who feels out of place with the world. I think everyone feels like that when you're going through those wonderful "Teen Years".
Am trying to write this review without going into "gushy" zone, which is VERY HARD (been trying to write this on and off for the past few hours!)! I just loved this book. I found it enchanting with tales of witches, smuggling, how children see parents and vica-versa. The only fault I can think of is the term "muttered/mumbled quietly" was used quite a bit, but it's a small detail so I will forgive the author.
I just fell in love with this book. I want the sequel, Heart of Stone, as soon as possible!
When Verity Gallant walks into Wellow's library and discover a man reading a red leather book, crying, she had no idea about the events that would unfold. That the man would give the red leather book and a strange wooden ball. That The Storm would come to dock in the little harbour town. That Verity's Grandmother (who she didn't even know existed!) come to stay. That Verity will slowly discover her family history that her father has been desperate to hide. That Verity will discover the tale of the Mistress of the Storm...
This is a little outside of my "YA" comfort-zone (this is, to me, an book within the "8 to 12 years old" bracket) and there's something nice to read something that isn't so teen-driven.
It was a wonderful read. There was something old-fashioned about it and it's nice to read about a soon-to-be-teenager, Verity, who feels out of place with the world. I think everyone feels like that when you're going through those wonderful "Teen Years".
Am trying to write this review without going into "gushy" zone, which is VERY HARD (been trying to write this on and off for the past few hours!)! I just loved this book. I found it enchanting with tales of witches, smuggling, how children see parents and vica-versa. The only fault I can think of is the term "muttered/mumbled quietly" was used quite a bit, but it's a small detail so I will forgive the author.
I just fell in love with this book. I want the sequel, Heart of Stone, as soon as possible!
March 20, 2016
I must admit I chose to read Mistress of the Storm primarily because of the cover - so pretty. It was alright, but it was a little slow. It starts to pick up at a place that's rather unexpected and completely confused me until I read further. (Thank goodness I usually read books in one go, I'm pretty sure if I spent more than a few days reading this I wouldn't understand a thing!)
New characters are introduced every few paragraphs, and I kept mistaking Jasper Cutgrass for Jeb Tempest and so forth. While the ending was an action-filled and dramatic improvement from the beginning of the story, if you don't have the patience to deal with the dragging beginning, you'd never get to that part.
Also, I absolutely loathed the Mistress. I cannot even express how annoyed I was every time she did something bad to Verity. When she dropped Mrs. Gallant's favorite porcelain figure and blamed it on Verity, I was about to scream. So, I admit the characters are pretty well-written, because unlikable characters should be that way!
Overall, Mistress of the Storm was a nice read and I would tentatively recommend it. The storyline is pretty predictable and the mess of character names is a bit of a trouble. However, if you ever have the chance to read it, I wouldn't hesitate to give it a try!
New characters are introduced every few paragraphs, and I kept mistaking Jasper Cutgrass for Jeb Tempest and so forth. While the ending was an action-filled and dramatic improvement from the beginning of the story, if you don't have the patience to deal with the dragging beginning, you'd never get to that part.
Also, I absolutely loathed the Mistress. I cannot even express how annoyed I was every time she did something bad to Verity. When she dropped Mrs. Gallant's favorite porcelain figure and blamed it on Verity, I was about to scream. So, I admit the characters are pretty well-written, because unlikable characters should be that way!
Overall, Mistress of the Storm was a nice read and I would tentatively recommend it. The storyline is pretty predictable and the mess of character names is a bit of a trouble. However, if you ever have the chance to read it, I wouldn't hesitate to give it a try!
June 10, 2011
There's a lovely, old-fashioned feel to this book. It's set neither firmly in the past, or in the present--there's no technology, but Verity "feels" like a modern child. The setting has a lovely solidness to it--it's a slightly not quite real place, but real in the story sense, and many of the characters are likewise reminiscent of people one might have met in other stories long ago--in an evocative, rather than an imitative, way (if that makes sense?). Verity is a classic example of the bookish outsider making good, and as such many of us will empathize with her, and cheer her on.
The story itself is a beautiful swirl of legends becoming real, of old evil told of in whispers coming back, horribly, into everyday life, of stories that have truth in them, made manifest in the real world. The Mistress of the Storm is a formidable enemy, and Verity is a small heroine, but on her side she has friends, fortitude, a love of books (and the help of the town's librarian), and an unexpected talent for sailing....
Highly recommended. If you love both old-fashioned-ish English children's books and contemporary children's fantasy, you will enjoy this one.
The story itself is a beautiful swirl of legends becoming real, of old evil told of in whispers coming back, horribly, into everyday life, of stories that have truth in them, made manifest in the real world. The Mistress of the Storm is a formidable enemy, and Verity is a small heroine, but on her side she has friends, fortitude, a love of books (and the help of the town's librarian), and an unexpected talent for sailing....
Highly recommended. If you love both old-fashioned-ish English children's books and contemporary children's fantasy, you will enjoy this one.
November 17, 2011
This book is about a girl who's treated badly at school and everywhere else. Her name's Verity and she's the oldest in a family of four. one day she finds a mysterious man in the local library and she chases him in curiosity. He gives her a book and says that a storm was coming. then her grandmother arrives and her best friend Alice dissapears. Verity knows that the events are connected and she digs deeper into the mystery. She finds out that she is a decendant of the famouse captain of the gentry and that it's her responsability to kill the evil mistress of the storm.Will she or will the mistress kill her before she can?
I picked this book up because it looked kind of interesting and also I had nothing to read.
I finished this book because I wanted to know what would happend to Verity.
I would recommend this book to Grace because this book is like scat and hoot and I know that she likes reading those books.
I picked this book up because it looked kind of interesting and also I had nothing to read.
I finished this book because I wanted to know what would happend to Verity.
I would recommend this book to Grace because this book is like scat and hoot and I know that she likes reading those books.
July 21, 2010
I read this YA supernatural because that's the genre I write in, and it's also the first book from an author in my home county, Suffolk. The beginning was intruiging, and I like Welsh's writing style and phrasing, more verbose than many modern YA books but not old-fashioned.
I was a little confused in the first few chapters; I spotted two editing errors - including one where the main character, Verity, thought something which was repeated verbally by another - and was also confused about the time in which the book was set. It mentioned an Art Deco building that was "reminiscent of it's time" yet a fully-rigged sailing ship pulls into the harbour a short time later and no-one is suprised.
However around the middle of the book it really picked up speed and was an entertaining and easy read. I look forward to reading Welsh's next 'Verity Gallant Tale.'
I was a little confused in the first few chapters; I spotted two editing errors - including one where the main character, Verity, thought something which was repeated verbally by another - and was also confused about the time in which the book was set. It mentioned an Art Deco building that was "reminiscent of it's time" yet a fully-rigged sailing ship pulls into the harbour a short time later and no-one is suprised.
However around the middle of the book it really picked up speed and was an entertaining and easy read. I look forward to reading Welsh's next 'Verity Gallant Tale.'
May 2, 2012
I really enjoyed this one. I thought the characters, setting, and plot were all very interesting. The story reminded me at times of Robin Jarvis' Whitby Witches (the first book, not the creepy sequels) and I really enjoyed the atmosphere. I did have some confusion with not knowing who the Preventative Men were - I assumed something like those enforcing Prohibition in the U.S. - and I wish an explanation had been given. I also had no idea in what time period the story was to have taken place. I couldn't tell if everything was based on some history I'd never heard of or in an entirely different world. Granted, I knew it wasn't entirely our world because of the presence of magic, but I was still confused. If the Preventative Men confusion and the confusion about time had been settled, I think I would have been completely satisfied.
October 20, 2014
This was a Year 8 Reader's Cup novel. I really loved this book.
The Mistress of the Storm follows a girl called Verity who seems out of place - even in her own family. When their "Grandmother" arrives suddenly at the same time as the Storm (a ship) strange things begin to happen. Her Grandmother kicks Verity out of her own room, throws away her precious books and is constantly bullying her. However, her mum and little sister Poppy are completely oblivious her snide remarks and her dad seems even more distant and distracted as ever. With some help of her new friends, Henry and Martha, and the librarian Mrs Cameron and a few others, Verity pieces together the mystery of her family's past and why their Grandmother has suddenly appeared.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery/adventure/magic/history.
The Mistress of the Storm follows a girl called Verity who seems out of place - even in her own family. When their "Grandmother" arrives suddenly at the same time as the Storm (a ship) strange things begin to happen. Her Grandmother kicks Verity out of her own room, throws away her precious books and is constantly bullying her. However, her mum and little sister Poppy are completely oblivious her snide remarks and her dad seems even more distant and distracted as ever. With some help of her new friends, Henry and Martha, and the librarian Mrs Cameron and a few others, Verity pieces together the mystery of her family's past and why their Grandmother has suddenly appeared.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes mystery/adventure/magic/history.
November 28, 2011
Verity Gallant's life is changed the day that she meets a tall stranger in the Wellow library, who gives her an ancient book and a wooden ball. Then the Storm docks, much to the anticipation of everyone in town; and an old lady shows up at the Gallant doorstep, claiming to be the wife of Verity's long lost grandfather. No one but Verity seems to notice how evil and nasty she is, and soon Verity's life is more miserable than ever. She and her friend Henry, both teased misfits, begin to realize that there is something very bad about to happen, and it involves the story told in the ancient book, and the witch who calls herself Verity's grandmother. A rich and interesting fantasy with an exotic flavor. Middle grades.
October 16, 2014
Mistress of the Storm by M.L. Welsh is a fantasy book about a girl named Verity Gallant. She gets teased and her parents don’t pay much attention to her. Unfortunately her grandmother that seems to hate her may be the mistress of the storm herself, a legendary woman that only Verity can destroy. She makes two friends, Henry and Martha, and together they attempt to unravel the mystery of the founders of her hometown. I liked this book even though it could get a little confusing and I figured out several things chapters before the characters did. That can prove how realistic the characters are, along with Verity’s upsets, Henry’s skepticality, and Martha’s tend to talk. If you liked Fablehaven then you will probably like this book as well.
February 2, 2012
Verity is bullied at school, unlike her popular younger sister Poppy. Even her parents obviously favor Poppy. Then a mysterious man gives her a red book, and a grandmother she never knew she had moves in. As Verity gradually gains friends, they investigate the secrets of the smuggling past of their town of Willow. But is it really in the past? Verity's continuing passivity in the face of so much unfairness at home and at school annoyed me. I kept wanting her to speak up and protest and say something about what she was enduring. I was also annoyed at how her mother showed such obvious favoritism towards the sister.
April 1, 2011
Starts slow but picks up. Verity has been given a book of stories. Her grandmother comes to visit but Verity feels that something is wrong. She feels anger and hatred coming from her grandmother but she doesn't know why. Along with her friends Henry and Martha she discovers she has a story she must see through to the end. All of them work together so Verity might end the story. A very exciting finish and most of the questions are answered.
July 19, 2011
The narration is a little choppy, bouncing from third person limited to omniscient without warning, with fourth-wall breaking at the beginning and the end. Alice shows up for a deus ex machina that is poorly explained. Overall, thinking about the plot too much reveals more and more inconsistency.
However, Grandmother is a terrifying figure and Verity's struggle against her is dramatic.
However, Grandmother is a terrifying figure and Verity's struggle against her is dramatic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2010
I found this book slow and annoying! Sorry!! I wanted to love it and it looked like my kind of book! It doesn't feel like teen or YA I would have no problem putting it in 9-12!
I thought there would be so much adventure and thought the book would be set at sea! I was disappointed!
June 27, 2011
Not an awful book, but suffering from a little of what I call Harry Potter Syndrome (forcing too hard a series out of the book, replete with awkward friendships, etc), and overall marred by a very typical Magical Negro scenario. That really ruined it for me, although the plot wasn't a bad one.
June 21, 2014
This was a well written young adult Sci-Fi story. It had characters that made you root for them. There were plot twists to keep you guessing about how everyone fit together and how things would turn out in the end. Some characters even learned how capable they were of changing.
July 14, 2016
Great children's book. We read it as a family and had to look up some words, especially since it is written in British English. It has many "scene changes" so you have to pay attention and follow along to keep track of the various characters that are tangled in the plot.
November 19, 2018
I really love the Verity Gallant books. They incorporate some of my favorite topics; Sailing, Books, and Magic... The characters a pretty interesting and it's a series I think everyone would enjoy.
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