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Wondrous Strange #3
Tempestuous
"I don't love Sonny Flannery."
That's the lie Kelley Winslow is told to protect the boy she loves from a power he doesn't know he possesses. Devastated, Sonny retreats to a haven for Lost Fae that's hidden deep underneath New York City.
But Kelley's not about to let things end in heartbreak. To get Sonny back, she's got to find out who's after his magick and how to use her own. She's got to uncover who's recruiting Janus Guards to murderously hunt innocent Faerie. She's got to help rebuild the shattered theater company she called family. And she's got to do it all without getting dangerously distracted by the Fenrys Wolf, whose legendary heart of stone seems to melt whenever he's around Kelley.
The intrigue and romance that began with Wondrous Strange and Darklight come to a stormy head in Tempestuous, the breathtaking conclusion to Lesley Livingston's ravishing urban Faerie trilogy.
361 pages, Hardcover
First published December 21, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 488 reviews
February 1, 2011
Actual rating 2.5
Tempestuous, just wasn’t what I was expecting. I was left with such a bitter cliffhanger after Darklight, and was anxious for this book, but it fell flat. I was ready for some heartbreaking moments between Sonny and Kelley, fighting, tears, passionate love as they confessed their undying love to each other. But there wasn’t. There was some love, they did kiss, but I didn’t really feel it. And their reunion and trust in each other happened too suddenly. Kelley had just said that she didn’t love Sonny, and he left heartbroken. Though it was a lie. But he didn’t know that. And when they finally see each other again, they fall straight into each other’s arms, and start kissing. No questions first, no anger, no pain. Just all of sudden together where they both wanted, and this lie still hanging in front of them. And they were rarely together in the book. They were together for all of five to ten minutes through the whole book. Like three little scenes that were not nearly enough time to work through these problems, and for Sonny to understand why Kelley said what she said.
The whole book was rather anticlimactic and boring. There were battles and such, but they just didn’t grab me. I felt disinterested. I didn’t really like Kelley here. The first two books I did, but in Tempestuous she made some decisions that weren’t right. Like Fenn! What the crap? She loves Sonny, but she kisses Fenn as a farewell. IN FRONT of Sonny, no less! Does she think that’s okay? To kiss any guy who loves her, who she kind of likes, just because she can? Does Sonny mean nothing to her? Are his kisses really not that meaningful, that she has to kiss someone else? Sonny doesn’t need to know that this wasn't the first time she kissed him. Seriously? Do you not love him enough to not keep secrets from him? To let him believe that he’s the only one you love, the only one you’ve kissed and want to kiss? I just think that that whole side love triangle thing was a waste of time and space, and did nothing for the story.
I didn't hate Tempestuous, I just didn't love it. I really wanted to like it, but I just couldn’t. I still like her first two books, and am excited to read her future books, but I just couldn’t connect with Tempestuous.
Tempestuous, just wasn’t what I was expecting. I was left with such a bitter cliffhanger after Darklight, and was anxious for this book, but it fell flat. I was ready for some heartbreaking moments between Sonny and Kelley, fighting, tears, passionate love as they confessed their undying love to each other. But there wasn’t. There was some love, they did kiss, but I didn’t really feel it. And their reunion and trust in each other happened too suddenly. Kelley had just said that she didn’t love Sonny, and he left heartbroken. Though it was a lie. But he didn’t know that. And when they finally see each other again, they fall straight into each other’s arms, and start kissing. No questions first, no anger, no pain. Just all of sudden together where they both wanted, and this lie still hanging in front of them. And they were rarely together in the book. They were together for all of five to ten minutes through the whole book. Like three little scenes that were not nearly enough time to work through these problems, and for Sonny to understand why Kelley said what she said.
The whole book was rather anticlimactic and boring. There were battles and such, but they just didn’t grab me. I felt disinterested. I didn’t really like Kelley here. The first two books I did, but in Tempestuous she made some decisions that weren’t right. Like Fenn! What the crap? She loves Sonny, but she kisses Fenn as a farewell. IN FRONT of Sonny, no less! Does she think that’s okay? To kiss any guy who loves her, who she kind of likes, just because she can? Does Sonny mean nothing to her? Are his kisses really not that meaningful, that she has to kiss someone else? Sonny doesn’t need to know that this wasn't the first time she kissed him. Seriously? Do you not love him enough to not keep secrets from him? To let him believe that he’s the only one you love, the only one you’ve kissed and want to kiss? I just think that that whole side love triangle thing was a waste of time and space, and did nothing for the story.
I didn't hate Tempestuous, I just didn't love it. I really wanted to like it, but I just couldn’t. I still like her first two books, and am excited to read her future books, but I just couldn’t connect with Tempestuous.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2011
I was really mad about the whole "I don't love Sonny Flannery." thing, because really I just wanted to read about Kelley and Sonny sharing some lip action. Luckily there is still some hot lip action going on... and Sonny isn't the only one getting some, if you know what I mean...
This is such a marvelous series. Livingston is a brilliant writer... her stories really are a work of art, sometimes I get lost in her descriptions. And I mean that as a compliment.
I think this was probably my least favorite of the series, I still enjoyed reading it, but there was something missing that the other two novels had. Or maybe I just should have re-read the other two books first. Usually I'm great at remembering an entire series even with the gaps in between, but I was a little confused at times durning this novel. And I was a little confused at the build up of Sonny's powers.... what happened with that, one minute he's tied to a tree.... the next he's riding Lucky.... does he still have his powers... did they just dissolve...? I think I was a little disappointed with the climax. The plot was a little slow in the beginning but the last hundred pages were hopping!
That being said, I delighted in this one last adventure with the characters that I had grown to love throughout the series. And even though I am Team Sonny all the way, I couldn't help but develop this soft spot for Fennrys durning the last two novels.
I'm going to miss this series.
And this doesn't have anything to do with the literary merit of this book. But I LOVE the covers for this series! How GORGEOUS is that cover novel. I think she's the perfect depiction of Kelley.
Tempestuous was an entertaining end to a beautifully written series. My advice, buy all three and read them one after the other! I'm very much anticipating Livingston's next novel!
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February 12, 2018I was very happy with the conclusion to this series. It left me with all kinds of warm fuzzies. This series is going on my recommendations list. If you like the fey, romance, and danger, this is the series for you.
December 27, 2010
Ugh, so, I don't know what happened with this last book, but I just...didn't like it very much. It was okay. But I'd never want to read it again, that's for sure. I'm not sure if it's because I'm just bored of this trilogy, or if this book just wasn't as good as the others. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood for it?
First of all, Kelley pissed me off in this book. She makes some really stupid decisions that make me want to shake her and shout, "What are you thinking, you idiot!?" Then, of course, she allows Fen to kiss her. That is not okay. But one kiss wasn't enough for her. She has to kiss him twice. But, you know, it's okay, because Sonny never has to find out, right? Yeah, okay, Kelley. Whatever you say. I'm just getting so tired of heroines in fantasy kissing every guy that gives them the eye. And, of course, the guy never once cheats on the girl, and that's the same case here. Sonny stays loyal to Kelley while she's smacking lips with Fenris.
As for Sonny, I still love him, but...he just wasn't enough for me to enjoy this book. We find out a tiny slice of his past, which was vaguely interesting. Maddox is awesome, as ever, but he doesn't have much of a role. That's one of the things about this series that bothers me. The only main characters are Sonny and Kelley--the others are just very, very much side characters...if that makes sense. They don't really appear as much as I'd like them to. We did get a few new characters, which I liked, and we checked up on a few old characters, like Emmaline. I wish there were more interactions between Emmaline and Sonny, seeing as she's his mother, but this trilogy is kind of...thin, so it doesn't really get into the deep emotions.
Kelley's relationship with her parents was interesting--especially her mother, as Oberon didn't even really show up. I just feel as if this is such an appetizer of a book, even with three of them. Kelley gets better at using her powers and what not, but I found I didn't care. I guess I was supposed to be surprised by the bad guys, but I wasn't.
As for Fenris, (no, I will not spell his name right, I refuse) I really wanna murder that guy. He tries to poison Kelley against Sonny in order to get her for himself, when he's the one lying to her. Ugh, he just creeped me out. I did like Tyff, though, not that she showed up much.
Basically, I found this book boring. I had to force myself to keep reading, just so I could finish it. When not reading it, I didn't once think about the characters. I don't know, I'm just disappointed. This book didn't make me feel anything other than anger.
Goodbye Fenrys--oops, I mean FENRIS. Will. Not. Spell. Right.
First of all, Kelley pissed me off in this book. She makes some really stupid decisions that make me want to shake her and shout, "What are you thinking, you idiot!?" Then, of course, she allows Fen to kiss her. That is not okay. But one kiss wasn't enough for her. She has to kiss him twice. But, you know, it's okay, because Sonny never has to find out, right? Yeah, okay, Kelley. Whatever you say. I'm just getting so tired of heroines in fantasy kissing every guy that gives them the eye. And, of course, the guy never once cheats on the girl, and that's the same case here. Sonny stays loyal to Kelley while she's smacking lips with Fenris.
As for Sonny, I still love him, but...he just wasn't enough for me to enjoy this book. We find out a tiny slice of his past, which was vaguely interesting. Maddox is awesome, as ever, but he doesn't have much of a role. That's one of the things about this series that bothers me. The only main characters are Sonny and Kelley--the others are just very, very much side characters...if that makes sense. They don't really appear as much as I'd like them to. We did get a few new characters, which I liked, and we checked up on a few old characters, like Emmaline. I wish there were more interactions between Emmaline and Sonny, seeing as she's his mother, but this trilogy is kind of...thin, so it doesn't really get into the deep emotions.
Kelley's relationship with her parents was interesting--especially her mother, as Oberon didn't even really show up. I just feel as if this is such an appetizer of a book, even with three of them. Kelley gets better at using her powers and what not, but I found I didn't care. I guess I was supposed to be surprised by the bad guys, but I wasn't.
As for Fenris, (no, I will not spell his name right, I refuse) I really wanna murder that guy. He tries to poison Kelley against Sonny in order to get her for himself, when he's the one lying to her. Ugh, he just creeped me out. I did like Tyff, though, not that she showed up much.
Basically, I found this book boring. I had to force myself to keep reading, just so I could finish it. When not reading it, I didn't once think about the characters. I don't know, I'm just disappointed. This book didn't make me feel anything other than anger.
Goodbye Fenrys--oops, I mean FENRIS. Will. Not. Spell. Right.
March 27, 2012
My review can also now be found on Reading Lark: http://readinglark.blogspot.ca/2012/0...
I. N.E.E.D. M.O.R.E.!!!!!
An exhilerating conclusion to the Wondrous Strange trilogy... only it left me wanting--needing--MORE!!!!
Tempestuous starts off literally moments where Darklight left off. Kelley had just told Tyff, knowing that Sonny was listening, that she didn't love Sonny and never did... all in a ruse to drive Sonny and his green magick away for his own safety. The domino affect of this semi-regretful lie ripples right to the end of the story.
This last book ends triumphantly with all of our questions resolved. We find out who was behind all the diabolical events in the story thus far... who was behind the awakening of the Wild Hunt, who/what was behind Auberon's illness, as well as the mystery of the death of the Greenman, among other wonderings.
Aside from this awesome cast of characters we knew and loved in the first two books, namely Sonny & Kelley, Fennrys really shined in this last installment and became a huge favourite of mine! His character was complex but strong yet wasn't too proud to admit his weaknesses and vulnerabilities in his wolfish way. He had me whispering, "NOOOOOOO.. Fennnnnnn..." and I'll have to leave it at that!
The rest of the cast of characters in Tempestuous and throughout this trilogy were so richly written. I truly cared for them, even the not-so-good-guys, because Lesley made them so dimensional. I loved the wit and snarkiness throughout this entire story, too.
The story telling was so rich in Shakespeare and faerie folklore. Some characters that we thought trustworthy, were anything but. The loyalties of friends/allies were also in question... some were quite surprising while others I had suspected all along.
One teensy complaint I had was that I really wanted more of Kelley & Sonny working as a team--together--in the same promiximity! Their chemistry is palpable when they are by each other's side... they have a magical love story between them and I definitely wanted more of that. But then that made the parts when they were together soooo appreciated.
The ending left me breathless. I so desperately willed the book to materialize more pages... but to no avail.
Although everything is fully resolved by the end of this great finale, there were a couple of 'doors' left open, for perhaps more story to tell. I have no doubt Lesley can continue to work her 'magick' and imagine new stories with this wonderful cast of characters. I'd be soooo on-board!
*Note* Lesley has recently announced that there WILL be more story to tell in Starling one of our beloved characters from the Wondrous Strange trilogy!
December 21, 2010
I grabbed at Tempestuous immediately after closing the back cover of Darklight, intent on figuring out how the heck everything would go down in this final installment. Darklight's ending was, to say the least, a real shocker for me...and to be honest, I was a bit apprehensive about the direction the story was taking. In all honesty, I didn't really like a decision the main character made, and so I wasn't sure what to think going into this last book. Well, the author certainly didn't disappoint, and out of a complete left-field plot twist came a captivating finale to a beloved series. Without spoiling anything, if you've read Darklight, and the ending made you say, "What in the world?!" rest assured that you will most definitely be pleased with how everything plays out. So while there were some things that I didn't think were all that necessary to the story (we find out some less than flattering things about Sonny, for example), it didn't take away from the overall enjoyability, and I'm guaranteeing fans of the first two will just gobble this up.
So in addition to Kelley and Sonny, the cast of the WS series has been energetic, enigmatic, and hilariously lovable. I've mentioned before how cool a concept it is to have four faerie courts - one for every season - and the folkloric creatures represented in the series (kelpies, creepy sirens akin to vampires, storm hags - YEAH, and ogres, oh my!) are brilliantly crafted. And although they're maniacally evil, the Wee Green Men were (ssshhh!) some of my favorite characters. These ain't your Lucky Charms leprechauns - these are strangely fascinating sociopaths who can terrify and entertain simultaneously. And Robin Goodfell0w/Puck/"Bob" is the *best* portrayal of the character I've encountered in YA fiction. In fact, nobody blends faerie lore with the witticisms of Shakespeare's plays better than Lesley Livingston. If you're looking for anything remotely Midsummer/Auberon-Titania/Shakespeare's take on faeries, you just need to get introduced to this series.
The Wondrous Strange series has nearly singlehandedly restored my love of faerie lore and folk tales. From start to finish, the series was strong, witty, thorough, and downright entertaining, and for that, the author deserves immense praise. The Bard himself would be so pleased.
So in addition to Kelley and Sonny, the cast of the WS series has been energetic, enigmatic, and hilariously lovable. I've mentioned before how cool a concept it is to have four faerie courts - one for every season - and the folkloric creatures represented in the series (kelpies, creepy sirens akin to vampires, storm hags - YEAH, and ogres, oh my!) are brilliantly crafted. And although they're maniacally evil, the Wee Green Men were (ssshhh!) some of my favorite characters. These ain't your Lucky Charms leprechauns - these are strangely fascinating sociopaths who can terrify and entertain simultaneously. And Robin Goodfell0w/Puck/"Bob" is the *best* portrayal of the character I've encountered in YA fiction. In fact, nobody blends faerie lore with the witticisms of Shakespeare's plays better than Lesley Livingston. If you're looking for anything remotely Midsummer/Auberon-Titania/Shakespeare's take on faeries, you just need to get introduced to this series.
The Wondrous Strange series has nearly singlehandedly restored my love of faerie lore and folk tales. From start to finish, the series was strong, witty, thorough, and downright entertaining, and for that, the author deserves immense praise. The Bard himself would be so pleased.
May 27, 2012
Ok. It wasn't awe-inspiring, but it wasn't annoying, either.
The problem was/is that I couldn't really remember much that happened in the previous two books. Soooo. It took me a little while to catch on. Anyway, that's my fault, not Ms. Livingston's. I've read too many books that are similar to this one. Need, Wicked Lovely, Wings, Tattoo, Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception, Tithe, Fairy Tale...you get the picture. In all of these books someone discovers they are somehow involved with fairies.
I'm not saying they are all the same! Just...similar.
This one was ok, but (in my opinion) not memorable. Still, it wasn't a bad way to spend an afternoon.
The problem was/is that I couldn't really remember much that happened in the previous two books. Soooo. It took me a little while to catch on. Anyway, that's my fault, not Ms. Livingston's. I've read too many books that are similar to this one. Need, Wicked Lovely, Wings, Tattoo, Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception, Tithe, Fairy Tale...you get the picture. In all of these books someone discovers they are somehow involved with fairies.
I'm not saying they are all the same! Just...similar.
This one was ok, but (in my opinion) not memorable. Still, it wasn't a bad way to spend an afternoon.
March 24, 2018
A really great conclusion that was yet devastating but beautiful like almost every Shakespeare. The author captured the magic perfectly in this series!
August 21, 2014
Basically after reading this book, it was in general a whole lot slower for me to get into than the other two, but I did like the novel.
The pace would go from all emotions and talking as if they were talking to a psychologist and then drastically changes to action but not lasting very long!
Towards the end of the novel the pace started to get continuous as the "gang" started to unravel the "mystery" on the who was trying to corrupt the power etc. HOWEVER, there is a lot of writing to the leading up to this yet at the end when it is finally revealed and they need to defeat the Spring King/Dragon it happens only within a few sentences. Such as, Sonny as the rider becoming good and relenting the evil within the rider to then go and simply stab the dragon in the heart on the King White Stag with Kelley (add around 3 sentences and you've got the picture basically)
KELLEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?!?!?! she was getting on my nerves with her whole "love" triangle with Sonny and Fennrys, I just wanted to shake her saying to MAKE YOUR MIND UP! You can tell that she does love Fennrys because no matter how many times he has deceived her and left her to fend for herself she always forgives him, whereas her parents, still get the blame and made me realise that she does love Fennrys because she is willing to forgive anything that he does within a thought-sentence and not her parents.
AND!!! how could he just sit there and make his feelings known to her even though he knows the trouble he is causing and that he is making her more confused than she already is....but it also is her fault as well because she wouldn't do anything, sure she'd yell at him afterwards but that died down very soon after , then getting on as if nothing had happened but with her feelings towards him as well as his feelings towards her growing ever-so-slightly. At this point I do feel kind of sorry for Fennrys (KINDA-SORRY) because he was essentially led-on by Kelley, causing his feelings to become too overwhelming as for him to lose who he basically is as a person in order to fall for Kelley and forget his nature.
WHAT WAS WITH THAT KISS!! these two need to sort out their priorities! Kelley knows how jealous Sonny gets of how much time she spent with Fennrys while he was in the Otherworld but kissing Fennrys in front of Sonny! what does she think his mind will be going through, it would make him question if it was the first time they've kissed (IT's THE 2ND!! - my point proven). From this book I don't think that Kelley is as deserving of having Sonny as she was towards him in this one compared to the other two. Sonny is devoted to her, even when she tells him that she "doesn't love him", he still wants to fix everything with her after staying in the Lost Faery Tunnels/Sanctuary not matter if she "loves" him or not, he is still willing to try. In simpler terms, the guy is literally devoted to her and she even changes him as a person (i.e, the Rider loses killing streak and then turns back into Sonny because of Kelley). It seems like Kelley and Sonny are taking two steps forward yet one step back in their relationship constantly but there should have been more of their romance in this book I think.
Even though this whole ordeal was frustrating, this wanted to make me continue reading to see what would eventually happen.
This book was also very predictable! from the first moment that she met the Summer Queen and especially the Spring King as well as everything that Fennrys was doing drew conclusions to those three mixed towards the final outcome.
It all ended too abruptly, and I wanted to be "taken" on the date with Sonny and Kelley at the very end of the book. It's great how Lesley left the book on a near cliff-hanger because you want to know what happens as they go into the Otherworld but then at the same time it leaves you to guess at what the ending for Sonny and Kelley is going to be from what you got out of the book and their relationship.
Ok, I've basically beentalking/typing about the negatives of the book but there are positives as well (that I will not mention as they should be found out by yourself)
The pace would go from all emotions and talking as if they were talking to a psychologist and then drastically changes to action but not lasting very long!
Towards the end of the novel the pace started to get continuous as the "gang" started to unravel the "mystery" on the who was trying to corrupt the power etc. HOWEVER, there is a lot of writing to the leading up to this yet at the end when it is finally revealed and they need to defeat the Spring King/Dragon it happens only within a few sentences. Such as, Sonny as the rider becoming good and relenting the evil within the rider to then go and simply stab the dragon in the heart on the King White Stag with Kelley (add around 3 sentences and you've got the picture basically)
KELLEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?!?!?! she was getting on my nerves with her whole "love" triangle with Sonny and Fennrys, I just wanted to shake her saying to MAKE YOUR MIND UP! You can tell that she does love Fennrys because no matter how many times he has deceived her and left her to fend for herself she always forgives him, whereas her parents, still get the blame and made me realise that she does love Fennrys because she is willing to forgive anything that he does within a thought-sentence and not her parents.
AND!!! how could he just sit there and make his feelings known to her even though he knows the trouble he is causing and that he is making her more confused than she already is....but it also is her fault as well because she wouldn't do anything, sure she'd yell at him afterwards but that died down very soon after , then getting on as if nothing had happened but with her feelings towards him as well as his feelings towards her growing ever-so-slightly. At this point I do feel kind of sorry for Fennrys (KINDA-SORRY) because he was essentially led-on by Kelley, causing his feelings to become too overwhelming as for him to lose who he basically is as a person in order to fall for Kelley and forget his nature.
WHAT WAS WITH THAT KISS!! these two need to sort out their priorities! Kelley knows how jealous Sonny gets of how much time she spent with Fennrys while he was in the Otherworld but kissing Fennrys in front of Sonny! what does she think his mind will be going through, it would make him question if it was the first time they've kissed (IT's THE 2ND!! - my point proven). From this book I don't think that Kelley is as deserving of having Sonny as she was towards him in this one compared to the other two. Sonny is devoted to her, even when she tells him that she "doesn't love him", he still wants to fix everything with her after staying in the Lost Faery Tunnels/Sanctuary not matter if she "loves" him or not, he is still willing to try. In simpler terms, the guy is literally devoted to her and she even changes him as a person (i.e, the Rider loses killing streak and then turns back into Sonny because of Kelley). It seems like Kelley and Sonny are taking two steps forward yet one step back in their relationship constantly but there should have been more of their romance in this book I think.
Even though this whole ordeal was frustrating, this wanted to make me continue reading to see what would eventually happen.
This book was also very predictable! from the first moment that she met the Summer Queen and especially the Spring King as well as everything that Fennrys was doing drew conclusions to those three mixed towards the final outcome.
It all ended too abruptly, and I wanted to be "taken" on the date with Sonny and Kelley at the very end of the book. It's great how Lesley left the book on a near cliff-hanger because you want to know what happens as they go into the Otherworld but then at the same time it leaves you to guess at what the ending for Sonny and Kelley is going to be from what you got out of the book and their relationship.
Ok, I've basically been
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2016
"Kelley orkede ikke flere trusler fra folk som hun faktisk prøvede at hjælpe. Hun slog vingerne ud, og den blændende stråleglans fik det et øjeblik til at flimre for hendes egne øjne..."
Jeg tror, at jeg havde alt for høje forventninger til denne bog. 'Sort lys' sluttede af sådan et spændende og hjerteknusende sted, men da jeg åbnede 'Stormen' var der absolut intet spor af den stærke slutning fra bogen før.
Dette er uden tvivl den bog i trilogien, jeg holder mindst af - bogen manglede simpelthen bare et eller andet - en gnist, en energi, et eller andet - og derfor gik det også virkelig sløvt med at komme igennem den.
Kelley var uudholdelig i denne bog. Hun blev til den kliché agtige tøs, der ingen (rigtige) beslutninger kan tage og udadtil virker til, at gøre alt i hendes magt, for at ødelægge alt det gode hun har.
Sonny havde jeg forventet skulle skinne igennem i denne bog, men hans historie blev hastet igennem og så meget som jeg nu holder af ham som karakter, blev han og hans evner ligegyldige.
"På trods af hendes forsikringer gav det stadig et voldsomt sæt i Sonny da Chloes læber rørte hans, og den velkendte følelse af paralyserende kulde skar sig gennem hans hjerne."
Derudover blev jeg rundtosset, for jeg sad og kæmpede mig igennem denne sløve bog, men pludselig kom der så meget fart på, at det hele blev til et stort kaos og jeg er stadig ikke sikker på, hvad pokker jeg fik læst til sidst.
Jeg ærgrer mig bare virkelig over, at min ellers så fine rejse igennem feverdenen i denne trilogi, faldt fladt til jorden med denne svage og rodede afslutning.
Jeg tror, at jeg havde alt for høje forventninger til denne bog. 'Sort lys' sluttede af sådan et spændende og hjerteknusende sted, men da jeg åbnede 'Stormen' var der absolut intet spor af den stærke slutning fra bogen før.
Dette er uden tvivl den bog i trilogien, jeg holder mindst af - bogen manglede simpelthen bare et eller andet - en gnist, en energi, et eller andet - og derfor gik det også virkelig sløvt med at komme igennem den.
Kelley var uudholdelig i denne bog. Hun blev til den kliché agtige tøs, der ingen (rigtige) beslutninger kan tage og udadtil virker til, at gøre alt i hendes magt, for at ødelægge alt det gode hun har.
Sonny havde jeg forventet skulle skinne igennem i denne bog, men hans historie blev hastet igennem og så meget som jeg nu holder af ham som karakter, blev han og hans evner ligegyldige.
"På trods af hendes forsikringer gav det stadig et voldsomt sæt i Sonny da Chloes læber rørte hans, og den velkendte følelse af paralyserende kulde skar sig gennem hans hjerne."
Derudover blev jeg rundtosset, for jeg sad og kæmpede mig igennem denne sløve bog, men pludselig kom der så meget fart på, at det hele blev til et stort kaos og jeg er stadig ikke sikker på, hvad pokker jeg fik læst til sidst.
Jeg ærgrer mig bare virkelig over, at min ellers så fine rejse igennem feverdenen i denne trilogi, faldt fladt til jorden med denne svage og rodede afslutning.
November 29, 2010
4.5 stars
Tempestuous is an exciting, action packed ending to Lesley's Wondrous Strange series. With all the plot twists, the "who done it" mystery finally revealed, and Kelley and Sonny finally realizing their powers full potentials, I couldn't have asked for a better ending. The faerie courts are at war, allies are broken, new ones made, new characters are introduced, other character's end their journeys and some make choices that completely surprised me. Tempestuous is non stop action and one that reveals little bits to what's been going on in the series twisted plots leading right up to the war.
I really liked the turn of events that takes place amongst the faerie courts. I didn't see that one coming, as Lesley does a fantastic job at keeping me guessing through the whole series on who's behind the attacks and the chaos. Where Kelley and Sonny annoyed me just a little bit with choices they both make, though I understand why they made their decisions, I liked that Fennrys and Maddox became their voice of reason. I also liked seeing the reasoning behind choices some of the characters make like Puck. It helped me understand their characters more and it made me respect them a bit more.
Tempestuous has romance, heart ache, betrayal and plenty of action. Like Wondrous Strange and Darklight, Tempestuous is a quick, engaging read and one I recommend picking up when it's released on December 22nd, 2010.
Tempestuous is an exciting, action packed ending to Lesley's Wondrous Strange series. With all the plot twists, the "who done it" mystery finally revealed, and Kelley and Sonny finally realizing their powers full potentials, I couldn't have asked for a better ending. The faerie courts are at war, allies are broken, new ones made, new characters are introduced, other character's end their journeys and some make choices that completely surprised me. Tempestuous is non stop action and one that reveals little bits to what's been going on in the series twisted plots leading right up to the war.
I really liked the turn of events that takes place amongst the faerie courts. I didn't see that one coming, as Lesley does a fantastic job at keeping me guessing through the whole series on who's behind the attacks and the chaos. Where Kelley and Sonny annoyed me just a little bit with choices they both make, though I understand why they made their decisions, I liked that Fennrys and Maddox became their voice of reason. I also liked seeing the reasoning behind choices some of the characters make like Puck. It helped me understand their characters more and it made me respect them a bit more.
Tempestuous has romance, heart ache, betrayal and plenty of action. Like Wondrous Strange and Darklight, Tempestuous is a quick, engaging read and one I recommend picking up when it's released on December 22nd, 2010.
March 18, 2011
My friend won the ARC at the end of last year, and I FINALLY got my hands on it. So technically, I'm not an "advanced reader" of the book but it is the uncorrected proof so I still feel excited! Now, to the review!
WOW!. . . I hate giving anything away, so all I can say is if you like faerie books, read this series! It just got better and better. The first two in the series, Wondrous Strange and Darklight, I would consider a low five stars, but this one blew those two out of the water! Just the romantic drama between Kelley and Sonny I think kind of put me off in the first two, but this one completely made up for it. The conflict in Tempestuous between the two (through the majority of the book) wasn't immature (mostly. .) and it wasn't because of Kelley and Sonny being stupid, it was because of their situation and I guess because they could never really talk to each other. I'm not sure if that's it. . but there's something off putting in the first two books that was only present in the beginning of this one. Anyway, it ended a series not with a fizzle, but with a bang and I don't want it to end! (Except that dragging it on from here could very possibly get boring). But there are enough loose ties *cough cough* *!!!semi-spoiler!!!* Fenn *cough cough* that it's possible if Lesley Livingston gets bored enough . . . Anyway, I'm still really happy with the ending!
WOW!. . . I hate giving anything away, so all I can say is if you like faerie books, read this series! It just got better and better. The first two in the series, Wondrous Strange and Darklight, I would consider a low five stars, but this one blew those two out of the water! Just the romantic drama between Kelley and Sonny I think kind of put me off in the first two, but this one completely made up for it. The conflict in Tempestuous between the two (through the majority of the book) wasn't immature (mostly. .) and it wasn't because of Kelley and Sonny being stupid, it was because of their situation and I guess because they could never really talk to each other. I'm not sure if that's it. . but there's something off putting in the first two books that was only present in the beginning of this one. Anyway, it ended a series not with a fizzle, but with a bang and I don't want it to end! (Except that dragging it on from here could very possibly get boring). But there are enough loose ties *cough cough* *!!!semi-spoiler!!!* Fenn *cough cough* that it's possible if Lesley Livingston gets bored enough . . . Anyway, I'm still really happy with the ending!
January 30, 2019
I was so happy to read a trilogy conclusion that was just as good as the previous two books in the series, unlike a lot of other book series I can think of. If you loved Wondrous Strange and Darklight, I would be very very surprised if you didn’t like Tempestuous. I was so happy to be back in Kelley’s world again and I don’t know why I took so long to buy this book!
Kelley and Sonny are a cute couple and I LOVE that romance didn’t take over the story! Instead our MCs are trying to solve the mystery of who is causing so much trouble in the faerie realm(s). Mabh is a cool character, I like her a lot as well, and Fennrys’s ultimate fate made me SO HAPPY-it was exactly what I wanted to happen to him. I also love that while the MCs as a whole are quite likable, they make mistakes and have flaws. Also Kelley’s friend Tyff is funny. I like her too. And Chloe. Heck even creepy evil Jenii was fun to read about when she showed up. I don’t dislike any of the protagonists which is somewhat rare for me-usually there’s at least one character I don’t like even in books I love.
There is some addressing of how one can lie while telling the truth, which is interesting for a book to talk about in my opinion.
I stinking love this trilogy and would highly recommend it if you love fantasy series, faeries, and/or Lesley Livingston’s The Valiant. Now to find the spin-off series...
5 stars.
Kelley and Sonny are a cute couple and I LOVE that romance didn’t take over the story! Instead our MCs are trying to solve the mystery of who is causing so much trouble in the faerie realm(s). Mabh is a cool character, I like her a lot as well, and Fennrys’s ultimate fate made me SO HAPPY-it was exactly what I wanted to happen to him. I also love that while the MCs as a whole are quite likable, they make mistakes and have flaws. Also Kelley’s friend Tyff is funny. I like her too. And Chloe. Heck even creepy evil Jenii was fun to read about when she showed up. I don’t dislike any of the protagonists which is somewhat rare for me-usually there’s at least one character I don’t like even in books I love.
There is some addressing of how one can lie while telling the truth, which is interesting for a book to talk about in my opinion.
I stinking love this trilogy and would highly recommend it if you love fantasy series, faeries, and/or Lesley Livingston’s The Valiant. Now to find the spin-off series...
5 stars.
February 25, 2011
Quick Thinking: Although not as magnificent as anticipated, Tempestuous was a satisfying closing to this amazing trilogy! Love is majorly tested...bad guys turning up most unexpectedly...hateful crimes and killings...intense fighting and spell-casting...griping best friends and roommate...Tempestuous carries all of the qualities that made me fall in love with this trilogy to begin with! From a joyous love to an exhilarating whirlwind of a plot all they way down to the humor pouring out of the characters, this third book once again leads fans into the wondrous unknown. Uncover the deeply puzzling events that have spanned across these three books alongside the fiery Kelley Winslow, and read as she fights to save the parents she never knew, a world she's only just discovered and the world that housed her, and for a love she's just turned away from.
My Thoughts In-Depth: *Note: May not be spoiler-free.* I was a little disappointed in this book, not going to fib. After that amazing ride in Darklight, I had expected the novel to go up a few notches. For this installment to be as explosive and as unparalleled as the second. But, it wasn't. Maybe, my expectations were a little too high. I just felt as if the trilogy ended too...neatly, I guess. I love that sensation when you're reading and everything has just fallen into place, but it felt more planned, more controlled. Tied up too neatly.
Added to that, the Sonny and Kelley conflict consuming almost the first half of the book didn't sit well with me. I was prepared for their separation, or thought I was. But, in truth, I hated every second they were apart. And I was actually pushed to anger when I saw how they were starting to realize attraction to other people, conveniently. It just bugged me, you know? While I got Kelley's reasoning for turning Sonny away, it just didn't seem entirely necessary. I live for Kelley-Sonny action and the fact that I was deprived for much of the book made me want to tear something up or throw something. You love him, so why aren't you protecting him by being with him and helping him?! Why couldn't you have trusted him with the secret lurking within him and help him the best you could instead of pushing him away?!
Sonny seemed almost abandoned by Kelley, and that bothered the hell out of me. I love Sonny to death. Really, I do. And to see what his shattered relationship with Kelley did to him was not fun. He was so lost and traveling in a daze. So much pain. It sucked, totally. When he finally decided to snap out of it, stop wallowing, and begin battling, I perked up considerably. One of the things that had me falling for this guy is his total concentration and ruthlessness in combat. Next to that is the well of sweetness and his utter devotion and love for Kelley.
One thing that came from this conflict between one of my favorite pair of lovebirds, was the cool twist in that, for once, the girl gets to do the turning-you-away-to-protect-you move and eventually save the day. Not the other way around. I loved that Sonny acknowledged how strong of a person Kelley was, and more, that she was stronger than him in a lot of ways. To see that he was proud of that... I believe that's why I began to fall for Kelley in this third addition. Before, I don't want to say I disliked Kelley, I just couldn't exactly connect with her or really like her for that matter. But, after seeing all the ass she kicked, experiencing her wit and toughness, I've got to say that I developed newfound love and respect for this girl. Plus, her powers and wings added to the appeal.
The faerie/paranormal aspect in this book, and the entire series actually, kept me engrossed in the story despite all that was going on with Sonny and Kelley. Livingston truly and remarkably managed to weave a classic Shakespearean tale, 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', beautifully with her own plot and twists of her story. So much so, that I'm now tempted to go ahead and read 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. The theater concept behind much of Kelley's actions and spells was incredible, too! It made the story all the more fascinating and intriguing, mixing in an element that not many authors have implemented in their YA works. Learning the ways of the theater, the fun and hard-work, certainly served as an appeal as well. And over the course of these books, I've really grown to love Kelley's theater family. Alec with his boyish charm. Q because of his insatiable craving for perfection and his snarky attitude. Gentleman Jack since he's just too cool...and well, he is a gentleman.
But, I have to say, my favorite of the side characters would be Tyff! Though, I wasn't too happy about not getting enough Tyff-filled scenes -_-! She's just so sassy and wise, and probably one of the best best friends ever in existence. She does a lot for Kelley, and though reluctant, is always willing to do more for her friend. Love that girl!
Needless to say, despite the fact that I wasn't blown away by Tempestuous, it was still a marvelous read, which, I'm happy to report, ends rather beautifully and satisfyingly! I'm definitely sad to see this series finish, as I did love it tons. But, on the other hand, I'm super excited to read Livingston's latest project, Once Every Never. I mean, what kind of title is that to start? I'm so intrigued. Can't wait!
Loved this Scene/Quote:
"...It was killing Sonny to have her standing there in front of him, close enought to touch and so achingly beautiful...His Firecracker...
'Don't leave me, Sonny,' she said softly.
It was too much.
He was across the space between them in two strides, and she was in his arms again. Sonny shoved aside his uncertainty for the moment and lost himself in her kiss.
'I cannot lose you again, Kelley,' he said urgently. 'I will not. Not again. You have to tell me the truth. If this is not...real...if it's not...'
She kissed him, silencing his doubts as he gave in to the elation of having her in his arms once more.
'Did that feel like a lie?' she whispered against his lips" (168-169).
Probably my absolute favorite scene in the entire book! Boy, did they makeup! :DD
Thanks for reading!
Also posted at Paranormal Indulgence.
My Thoughts In-Depth: *Note: May not be spoiler-free.* I was a little disappointed in this book, not going to fib. After that amazing ride in Darklight, I had expected the novel to go up a few notches. For this installment to be as explosive and as unparalleled as the second. But, it wasn't. Maybe, my expectations were a little too high. I just felt as if the trilogy ended too...neatly, I guess. I love that sensation when you're reading and everything has just fallen into place, but it felt more planned, more controlled. Tied up too neatly.
Added to that, the Sonny and Kelley conflict consuming almost the first half of the book didn't sit well with me. I was prepared for their separation, or thought I was. But, in truth, I hated every second they were apart. And I was actually pushed to anger when I saw how they were starting to realize attraction to other people, conveniently. It just bugged me, you know? While I got Kelley's reasoning for turning Sonny away, it just didn't seem entirely necessary. I live for Kelley-Sonny action and the fact that I was deprived for much of the book made me want to tear something up or throw something. You love him, so why aren't you protecting him by being with him and helping him?! Why couldn't you have trusted him with the secret lurking within him and help him the best you could instead of pushing him away?!
Sonny seemed almost abandoned by Kelley, and that bothered the hell out of me. I love Sonny to death. Really, I do. And to see what his shattered relationship with Kelley did to him was not fun. He was so lost and traveling in a daze. So much pain. It sucked, totally. When he finally decided to snap out of it, stop wallowing, and begin battling, I perked up considerably. One of the things that had me falling for this guy is his total concentration and ruthlessness in combat. Next to that is the well of sweetness and his utter devotion and love for Kelley.
One thing that came from this conflict between one of my favorite pair of lovebirds, was the cool twist in that, for once, the girl gets to do the turning-you-away-to-protect-you move and eventually save the day. Not the other way around. I loved that Sonny acknowledged how strong of a person Kelley was, and more, that she was stronger than him in a lot of ways. To see that he was proud of that... I believe that's why I began to fall for Kelley in this third addition. Before, I don't want to say I disliked Kelley, I just couldn't exactly connect with her or really like her for that matter. But, after seeing all the ass she kicked, experiencing her wit and toughness, I've got to say that I developed newfound love and respect for this girl. Plus, her powers and wings added to the appeal.
The faerie/paranormal aspect in this book, and the entire series actually, kept me engrossed in the story despite all that was going on with Sonny and Kelley. Livingston truly and remarkably managed to weave a classic Shakespearean tale, 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', beautifully with her own plot and twists of her story. So much so, that I'm now tempted to go ahead and read 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. The theater concept behind much of Kelley's actions and spells was incredible, too! It made the story all the more fascinating and intriguing, mixing in an element that not many authors have implemented in their YA works. Learning the ways of the theater, the fun and hard-work, certainly served as an appeal as well. And over the course of these books, I've really grown to love Kelley's theater family. Alec with his boyish charm. Q because of his insatiable craving for perfection and his snarky attitude. Gentleman Jack since he's just too cool...and well, he is a gentleman.
But, I have to say, my favorite of the side characters would be Tyff! Though, I wasn't too happy about not getting enough Tyff-filled scenes -_-! She's just so sassy and wise, and probably one of the best best friends ever in existence. She does a lot for Kelley, and though reluctant, is always willing to do more for her friend. Love that girl!
Needless to say, despite the fact that I wasn't blown away by Tempestuous, it was still a marvelous read, which, I'm happy to report, ends rather beautifully and satisfyingly! I'm definitely sad to see this series finish, as I did love it tons. But, on the other hand, I'm super excited to read Livingston's latest project, Once Every Never. I mean, what kind of title is that to start? I'm so intrigued. Can't wait!
Loved this Scene/Quote:
"...It was killing Sonny to have her standing there in front of him, close enought to touch and so achingly beautiful...His Firecracker...
'Don't leave me, Sonny,' she said softly.
It was too much.
He was across the space between them in two strides, and she was in his arms again. Sonny shoved aside his uncertainty for the moment and lost himself in her kiss.
'I cannot lose you again, Kelley,' he said urgently. 'I will not. Not again. You have to tell me the truth. If this is not...real...if it's not...'
She kissed him, silencing his doubts as he gave in to the elation of having her in his arms once more.
'Did that feel like a lie?' she whispered against his lips" (168-169).
Probably my absolute favorite scene in the entire book! Boy, did they makeup! :DD
Thanks for reading!
Also posted at Paranormal Indulgence.
December 15, 2019
To protect Sonny, I don't think it was a good idea even though she was doing it to protect Sonny.
At least this book didn't have a cliffhanger ending. But there was so little of Sonny and Kelley together. And Kelley made so many bad decisions that affected other people. Story was so slow at times and just not enough romance, unless you count the love triangle. I think Sonny was too good for Kelley.
The best thing was the author's great job of reading the audiobook.
At least this book didn't have a cliffhanger ending. But there was so little of Sonny and Kelley together. And Kelley made so many bad decisions that affected other people. Story was so slow at times and just not enough romance, unless you count the love triangle. I think Sonny was too good for Kelley.
The best thing was the author's great job of reading the audiobook.
did-not-finish
October 10, 2017DNF @ 14%
I'm just finding myself bored, zoning out, and not caring much about the characters. The story isn't catching my attention :( But if you were a huge fan of the previous two books, you'll probably like this.
I'm just finding myself bored, zoning out, and not caring much about the characters. The story isn't catching my attention :( But if you were a huge fan of the previous two books, you'll probably like this.
Read
October 11, 2024I don't say it often but this series needed to be longer. I find it so interesting and the story well done, I just wish there could have been more, my time world building, more time developing characters and their relationships more time revelling in it all
February 9, 2018
Sonny’s devastation over Kelley claiming she didn’t love him was heartbreaking. I felt his confusion, his pain and despair over losing the one person he’d given his heart to. Especially after learning about his past and his experiences with the Faerie.
I can understand Kelley’s reasoning for doing what she did but that didn’t make it easier to see their suffering.
Kelley’s devastation was also apparent but Fennrys was there for her. It was also clear that he had feelings for her. What I couldn’t get over was why she didn’t discourage him, until like at the last possible moment. That’s something I didn’t like about her.
I liked the Lost Fae and their little sanctuary. It was nice to see a spark of hope in the madness of what was happening to the Janus and the breaches to and from the Faerie world.
The plot-twisters made the story even more interesting and the action was pretty cool. We also get to see a more in-depth look into the dynamics between the Faerie kings and queens. Several pending conflicts are resolved and it was nice to see some of the characters rising up to the occasion.
Posted on Blog
I can understand Kelley’s reasoning for doing what she did but that didn’t make it easier to see their suffering.
Kelley’s devastation was also apparent but Fennrys was there for her. It was also clear that he had feelings for her. What I couldn’t get over was why she didn’t discourage him, until like at the last possible moment. That’s something I didn’t like about her.
I liked the Lost Fae and their little sanctuary. It was nice to see a spark of hope in the madness of what was happening to the Janus and the breaches to and from the Faerie world.
The plot-twisters made the story even more interesting and the action was pretty cool. We also get to see a more in-depth look into the dynamics between the Faerie kings and queens. Several pending conflicts are resolved and it was nice to see some of the characters rising up to the occasion.
Posted on Blog
February 13, 2012
Prima di tutto se il libro vi è piaciuto in maniera spasmodica e non volete in nessun modo sentir parlare un pò male della trama e dei personaggi non leggete questa recensione.
E' provato ormai quasi matematicamente che gli scrittori sopratutto di young adult e fantasy fanno i salti di gioia quando possono ampliare la loro saga in un numero infinito di libri, chiedete a Paolini o sopratutto a Cassandra Clare e ne avrete la conferma. Allora perché diavolo questa saga ha fatto l'esatto contrario? Il terzo libro è un'accozzaglia di tutto, e non c'è alla fin fine spazio per niente. Non sappiamo quasi niente alla fine dei Reami fatati perché ci siamo stati solo di sfuggita, non sappiamo niente degli altri Giano con l'unica esclusione di Sonny di cui sappiamo anche troppo, perché sono stati solo accennati all'inizio e poi completamente ignorati per dare spazio a Kelley/Sonny, Sonny/Kelley e compagnia.
Detto in parole spicce in questo libro non c'è niente. Non c'è storia d'amore tranne per un bacio solo, perché Kelley e Sonny in realtà praticamente neanche si incontrano in questo libro, non c'è approfondimento perché ogni scena ha al massimo due pagine di tempo per svilupparsi perché poi time-out! altrimenti come facciamo a finire il libro? Non esiste evoluzione nei personaggi, li lasciamo esattamente come li abbiamo trovati nelle prime pagine del primo libro e se qualcosa cambia (vedasi poteri di Kelley che prima non sapeva fare neanche un uovo al tegamino e ora usa tutta la magia del padre, della madre, del nonno e dello zio messi insieme) succede in un lampo, zum! come un fulmine insomma, in maniera assolutamente irrealista. Arriviamo anche al combattimento finale con drago e deve tutto svolgersi in pochissimo altrimenti non rientriamo nel numero delle pagine! Insomma, che tristezza!
Sonny mi ha dato fastidio per tutto il libro. Prima di tutto non capisco il ragionamento di Kelley nell'abbandonarlo per proteggerlo dicendogli che non lo ama. Ma scusa, a ragion di logica se vuoi proteggere qualcuno dovrai stargli più vicino non più lontano no?! e non sapere dove andrà e cosa farà, magari perché arrabbiato o triste non rende le cose più difficili? Kelley non sei molto furba.
E poi c'è Sonny che odia Fenris perché lui.. beh non ha fatto niente. O meglio, ha aiutato Kelley quando Sonny aveva fatto quell'enorme idiozia della Caccia Selvaggia (colpa sua per buona parte, dato che sapeva di non dover salire su quel cavolo di cavallo ma lo ha fatto comunque) e Sonny ce l'ha con lui perché dice che quel tempo doveva essere suo e che il Lupo glielo ha "rubato". Pronto Sonny? quanti anni hai, due?
Poi per quanto riguarda i Giano. E' ovvio che quello che hanno fatto contro le creature fatate sia sbagliato, ma dopo anni e anni in quella vita ovvio che le odino e vogliano far loro del male. Non possono arrivare ai regnanti ma possono colpire i loro sudditi, non li giustifico ma non sono di certo senza un perché. Idem per il Re della Primavera, che è dovuto passare per cattivo a tutti i costi ma qualcuno si ricorda che Titania e Auberon gli hanno rubato il Regno? vogliamo anche dire ora che lui doveva accettarlo felicemente? E poi Titania è colpevole quanto lui però dato che Auberon se la fa allegramente la fa passare per buona alla fine visto che messa alla strette si pente, ovviamente mica è stupida lei ci guadagna solo a tornare come prima dato che si prende comunque una buona fetta del Regno fatato ed è solo Gwyn quello che alla fin fine ci rimette.
Sonny poi, perché deve per forza farlo passare per l'eroe senza macchia e senza paura? Arriva un esercito di nemici, lui solo con Puck e cosa fa? No, non fugge perché i Gary-stue.. em i Giano non possono fuggire, neanche davanti a morte certa! Ovviamente, va da sè che la ritirata strategica si chiama così perché va fatta quando non si ha speranza di vittoria, ma Sonny è troppo stup.. em eroe per capirlo! E che fa quindi? Puck gli da un calcio (un lepricano ricordiamocelo, dà un calcio ad un Giano e lo fa pure cadere) e lo fa cadere tu guarda non lì a terra dove chiunque avrebbe potuto pestarlo, no! in un buco in cui lui può nascondersi benissimo. Che fortuna Sonny! E poi quando catturano Puck Sonny avrebbe voluto salvarlo, ovviamente è un eroe! Ma non può perché Puck gli dice di non farlo, e Sonny non sta solo facendo il cordardo e lasciando un amico che gli ha salvato la vita nei guai o mandandolo probabilmente verso morte certa, no! Sta solo facendo quello che Puck gli dice, ovvero fidarsi di lui. Tutto questo ha senso, davvero! Molto, molto senso!
E' provato ormai quasi matematicamente che gli scrittori sopratutto di young adult e fantasy fanno i salti di gioia quando possono ampliare la loro saga in un numero infinito di libri, chiedete a Paolini o sopratutto a Cassandra Clare e ne avrete la conferma. Allora perché diavolo questa saga ha fatto l'esatto contrario? Il terzo libro è un'accozzaglia di tutto, e non c'è alla fin fine spazio per niente. Non sappiamo quasi niente alla fine dei Reami fatati perché ci siamo stati solo di sfuggita, non sappiamo niente degli altri Giano con l'unica esclusione di Sonny di cui sappiamo anche troppo, perché sono stati solo accennati all'inizio e poi completamente ignorati per dare spazio a Kelley/Sonny, Sonny/Kelley e compagnia.
Detto in parole spicce in questo libro non c'è niente. Non c'è storia d'amore tranne per un bacio solo, perché Kelley e Sonny in realtà praticamente neanche si incontrano in questo libro, non c'è approfondimento perché ogni scena ha al massimo due pagine di tempo per svilupparsi perché poi time-out! altrimenti come facciamo a finire il libro? Non esiste evoluzione nei personaggi, li lasciamo esattamente come li abbiamo trovati nelle prime pagine del primo libro e se qualcosa cambia (vedasi poteri di Kelley che prima non sapeva fare neanche un uovo al tegamino e ora usa tutta la magia del padre, della madre, del nonno e dello zio messi insieme) succede in un lampo, zum! come un fulmine insomma, in maniera assolutamente irrealista. Arriviamo anche al combattimento finale con drago e deve tutto svolgersi in pochissimo altrimenti non rientriamo nel numero delle pagine! Insomma, che tristezza!
Sonny mi ha dato fastidio per tutto il libro. Prima di tutto non capisco il ragionamento di Kelley nell'abbandonarlo per proteggerlo dicendogli che non lo ama. Ma scusa, a ragion di logica se vuoi proteggere qualcuno dovrai stargli più vicino non più lontano no?! e non sapere dove andrà e cosa farà, magari perché arrabbiato o triste non rende le cose più difficili? Kelley non sei molto furba.
E poi c'è Sonny che odia Fenris perché lui.. beh non ha fatto niente. O meglio, ha aiutato Kelley quando Sonny aveva fatto quell'enorme idiozia della Caccia Selvaggia (colpa sua per buona parte, dato che sapeva di non dover salire su quel cavolo di cavallo ma lo ha fatto comunque) e Sonny ce l'ha con lui perché dice che quel tempo doveva essere suo e che il Lupo glielo ha "rubato". Pronto Sonny? quanti anni hai, due?
Poi per quanto riguarda i Giano. E' ovvio che quello che hanno fatto contro le creature fatate sia sbagliato, ma dopo anni e anni in quella vita ovvio che le odino e vogliano far loro del male. Non possono arrivare ai regnanti ma possono colpire i loro sudditi, non li giustifico ma non sono di certo senza un perché. Idem per il Re della Primavera, che è dovuto passare per cattivo a tutti i costi ma qualcuno si ricorda che Titania e Auberon gli hanno rubato il Regno? vogliamo anche dire ora che lui doveva accettarlo felicemente? E poi Titania è colpevole quanto lui però dato che Auberon se la fa allegramente la fa passare per buona alla fine visto che messa alla strette si pente, ovviamente mica è stupida lei ci guadagna solo a tornare come prima dato che si prende comunque una buona fetta del Regno fatato ed è solo Gwyn quello che alla fin fine ci rimette.
Sonny poi, perché deve per forza farlo passare per l'eroe senza macchia e senza paura? Arriva un esercito di nemici, lui solo con Puck e cosa fa? No, non fugge perché i Gary-stue.. em i Giano non possono fuggire, neanche davanti a morte certa! Ovviamente, va da sè che la ritirata strategica si chiama così perché va fatta quando non si ha speranza di vittoria, ma Sonny è troppo stup.. em eroe per capirlo! E che fa quindi? Puck gli da un calcio (un lepricano ricordiamocelo, dà un calcio ad un Giano e lo fa pure cadere) e lo fa cadere tu guarda non lì a terra dove chiunque avrebbe potuto pestarlo, no! in un buco in cui lui può nascondersi benissimo. Che fortuna Sonny! E poi quando catturano Puck Sonny avrebbe voluto salvarlo, ovviamente è un eroe! Ma non può perché Puck gli dice di non farlo, e Sonny non sta solo facendo il cordardo e lasciando un amico che gli ha salvato la vita nei guai o mandandolo probabilmente verso morte certa, no! Sta solo facendo quello che Puck gli dice, ovvero fidarsi di lui. Tutto questo ha senso, davvero! Molto, molto senso!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2010
Note to readers: Ideally this book should not be read if the first two books in the series haven’t been read. There are too many character and plot developments that will be confusing otherwise.
***
Faeries don’t lie. They can’t lie. So when Kelley Winslow told Sonny Flannery she didn’t love him, that “[she] never did and [she] never will,” he had no reason to doubt her words. Kelley was Faerie after all. A Faerie princess. The daughter of King Auberon and Queen Mabh who was taken from the Otherworld as an infant to be raised by human parents as retribution for the taking of another child – him.
If he could just remember what happened at the theater he might be able to figure out why, but Kelley had the memory erased from his mind and from her friends’ minds. She did this out of love, to protect Sonny from others who would want to steal his power, to protect Sonny from himself.
Those that would want to harness his power would stop at nothing to find it. Sonny was a warrior, a Janus guard, but he was mortal and she was his weakness. So it was better for her to walk away, to leave him in the dark about the power within him and to eliminate any added risk to his safety and that included her, even if the cost to them both was heartache.
***
Tempestuous is the final novel in the Wondrous Strange trilogy by author Lesley Livingston. This was an enchanting series that incorporated Shakespeare’s vision of faeries and his other works into the real world of Faeries in which Kelley Winslow existed. Throughout the series Kelley’s character, already tenacious and independent, grew in strength as she began to accept and embrace her abilities.
In Tempestuous we finally get answers to all the questions raised in the previous novels. The action and tension in this book build from page one and the story keeps moving until the very end, alternating by chapter between Sonny and Kelley’s perspectives.
There are many stories about faeries in the young adult market, but what sets this apart is the author’s writing style, which flows beautifully but still allows for humor, the New York City Central Park backdrop and the Shakespearean elements woven throughout each book in the series.
Now that the series is completed, ideally it would be better to read all three books in a row, as there are so many plot points that rely on the previous books. Each book just jumps right in, picking up where its predecessor left off without summarizing the events leading up to that point or going into detail about the characters.
For readers who enjoy stories in this genre this is a “must read.”
On a personal note:
Tempestuous was awesome. As a whole I absolutely loved this series, but as I became a fan early on, before I read Darklight I had to re-read Wondrous Strange in order to refresh my memory. I didn’t need to do so before Tempestuous as Darklight really stood out. Though I loved Tempestuous, Darklight is still my favorite of the three books.
Tempestuous was an exciting book from beginning to end and tied up the series nicely without leaving me with any questions. And although I might have wished for a slightly different outcome, it was mostly due to the fact that I would have liked a bit more to the ending. (Or another book, but that’s just me being selfish.) I also missed Bob the boucca as he wasn’t as prevalent in this book as in the previous two.
This story builds and builds, but when the pinnacle is finally reached it all happened so fast that I didn’t realize that what I was reading was the final scene and so had to re-read it to capture all that had happened. And of course, as with any greedy fan, I would have liked to see further down the road in the characters’ lives.
I will definitely miss Kelley, Sonny, Fenn, Bob, Tyff and Lucky now that the series has ended. This will definitely be a series I re-read.
***
Faeries don’t lie. They can’t lie. So when Kelley Winslow told Sonny Flannery she didn’t love him, that “[she] never did and [she] never will,” he had no reason to doubt her words. Kelley was Faerie after all. A Faerie princess. The daughter of King Auberon and Queen Mabh who was taken from the Otherworld as an infant to be raised by human parents as retribution for the taking of another child – him.
If he could just remember what happened at the theater he might be able to figure out why, but Kelley had the memory erased from his mind and from her friends’ minds. She did this out of love, to protect Sonny from others who would want to steal his power, to protect Sonny from himself.
Those that would want to harness his power would stop at nothing to find it. Sonny was a warrior, a Janus guard, but he was mortal and she was his weakness. So it was better for her to walk away, to leave him in the dark about the power within him and to eliminate any added risk to his safety and that included her, even if the cost to them both was heartache.
***
Tempestuous is the final novel in the Wondrous Strange trilogy by author Lesley Livingston. This was an enchanting series that incorporated Shakespeare’s vision of faeries and his other works into the real world of Faeries in which Kelley Winslow existed. Throughout the series Kelley’s character, already tenacious and independent, grew in strength as she began to accept and embrace her abilities.
In Tempestuous we finally get answers to all the questions raised in the previous novels. The action and tension in this book build from page one and the story keeps moving until the very end, alternating by chapter between Sonny and Kelley’s perspectives.
There are many stories about faeries in the young adult market, but what sets this apart is the author’s writing style, which flows beautifully but still allows for humor, the New York City Central Park backdrop and the Shakespearean elements woven throughout each book in the series.
Now that the series is completed, ideally it would be better to read all three books in a row, as there are so many plot points that rely on the previous books. Each book just jumps right in, picking up where its predecessor left off without summarizing the events leading up to that point or going into detail about the characters.
For readers who enjoy stories in this genre this is a “must read.”
On a personal note:
Tempestuous was awesome. As a whole I absolutely loved this series, but as I became a fan early on, before I read Darklight I had to re-read Wondrous Strange in order to refresh my memory. I didn’t need to do so before Tempestuous as Darklight really stood out. Though I loved Tempestuous, Darklight is still my favorite of the three books.
Tempestuous was an exciting book from beginning to end and tied up the series nicely without leaving me with any questions. And although I might have wished for a slightly different outcome, it was mostly due to the fact that I would have liked a bit more to the ending. (Or another book, but that’s just me being selfish.) I also missed Bob the boucca as he wasn’t as prevalent in this book as in the previous two.
This story builds and builds, but when the pinnacle is finally reached it all happened so fast that I didn’t realize that what I was reading was the final scene and so had to re-read it to capture all that had happened. And of course, as with any greedy fan, I would have liked to see further down the road in the characters’ lives.
I will definitely miss Kelley, Sonny, Fenn, Bob, Tyff and Lucky now that the series has ended. This will definitely be a series I re-read.
December 17, 2011
Dopo averci condotto nel magico mondo di Wondrous Strange e Dark Light, Lesley Livingston conclude la sua trilogia con il terzo atto di questa storia, Tempestuous, che segna la resa dei conti sia per il mondo fatato che per quello umano.
Tra i vari young adult che ci sono in circolazione sicuramente la trilogia della Livingston ha saputo mettere in campo la sua originalità. Far rivivere in una dimensione urban fantasy i personaggi che popolano lo shakespeariano Sogno di una notte di mezza estate e più in generale il mondo della mitologia celtica e nordica è stata una idea brillante che è riuscita nel differenziare questa trilogia dalle altre, anche se si rimane sempre nell’ambito dello young adult e gli stilemi classici del genere non vengono meno.
Kelley è figlia di Auberon e di Mab, rispettivamente il re dell’inverno e la regina dell’autunno. Inizialmente ignara delle sue origini, ora sa bene che per riportare l’equilibrio tra le varie corti fatate e soprattutto riavere indietro il suo amato Sonny Flannery, guardiano delle porte che mettono in comunicazione la dimensione umana con quella magica, deve lottare a tutti i costi.
Lesley Livingston si giostra bene nella narrazione alternata dei due punti di vista dei protagonisti; Kelley e Sonny ci offrono una visione binoculare che permette al lettore di avere una comprensione più ampia di tutta la storia, venendo a conoscenza di cose che rimango oscure persino a parte dei personaggi.
Tutta la trilogia sembra creata sulla forma di una rappresentazione teatrale e non c’è da stupirci dal momento che fonte massima di ispirazione è stato appunto Shakespeare e l’autrice oltre a scrivere romanzi è anche autrice di teatro.
In questo terzo e ultimo atto si trova maggiormente narrata la dimensione magica e fatata della storia, New York e l’incantevole Central Park si perdono sullo sfondo e l’assenza della Grande Mela si avverte.
Alleanze segrete e tradimenti aggroviglieranno la trama di Tempestuous, personaggi che fin ora avevano visto più marginalmente o avevamo solo sentito nominare ora calcheranno le scene. I giani delle porte, i sovrani della corte dell’estate e della primavera in questo romanzo avranno modo di farsi conoscere dal lettore in tutta la loro potenza.
Bisogna scegliere le proprie battaglie e il segreto della vittoria sta nello scegliere quelle che si ha la certezza di vincere, questo è il consiglio che Fenris il Lupo dà a Kelley. Adesso sta a lei capire quali sono le strade da intraprendere, di chi fidarsi e chi combattere.
Va detto che dove la Livingston inserisce le dinamiche tipiche dello young adult il romanzo perde un po’ della sua lucentezza, che al contrario si sprigiona con tutta forza nelle parti, forse più care alla stessa scrittrice, dove i suoi personaggi calcano le scene della grande commedia delle azioni. L’inserimento di una specie di triangolo amoroso, anche se non preponderante nella storia, avvicina Tempestuous ad altri romanzi young adult uniformandolo, almeno in questi aspetti, alle tante narrazioni di genere che l’hanno preceduto.
Dopo Wondrous Strange, il secondo e terzo capitolo della storia di Kelley e delle creature fatate brillano un po’ meno, ma questo non significa che la storia che ci viene raccontata non sappia coinvolgere. Tra i vari romanzi che trattano la materia fatata certamente la trilogia della Livingston si colloca nelle sfere più alte della classifica grazie ad un’idea che nel complesso è e rimane originale e ben strutturata. Il lettore si è affezionato ai personaggi e leggerà Tempestuous con piacere e con il desiderio di scoprire quale sarà la scena finale una volta che Lesley Livingston deciderà di calare il sipario sui suoi personaggi e sulla loro storia.
Tra i vari young adult che ci sono in circolazione sicuramente la trilogia della Livingston ha saputo mettere in campo la sua originalità. Far rivivere in una dimensione urban fantasy i personaggi che popolano lo shakespeariano Sogno di una notte di mezza estate e più in generale il mondo della mitologia celtica e nordica è stata una idea brillante che è riuscita nel differenziare questa trilogia dalle altre, anche se si rimane sempre nell’ambito dello young adult e gli stilemi classici del genere non vengono meno.
Kelley è figlia di Auberon e di Mab, rispettivamente il re dell’inverno e la regina dell’autunno. Inizialmente ignara delle sue origini, ora sa bene che per riportare l’equilibrio tra le varie corti fatate e soprattutto riavere indietro il suo amato Sonny Flannery, guardiano delle porte che mettono in comunicazione la dimensione umana con quella magica, deve lottare a tutti i costi.
Lesley Livingston si giostra bene nella narrazione alternata dei due punti di vista dei protagonisti; Kelley e Sonny ci offrono una visione binoculare che permette al lettore di avere una comprensione più ampia di tutta la storia, venendo a conoscenza di cose che rimango oscure persino a parte dei personaggi.
Tutta la trilogia sembra creata sulla forma di una rappresentazione teatrale e non c’è da stupirci dal momento che fonte massima di ispirazione è stato appunto Shakespeare e l’autrice oltre a scrivere romanzi è anche autrice di teatro.
In questo terzo e ultimo atto si trova maggiormente narrata la dimensione magica e fatata della storia, New York e l’incantevole Central Park si perdono sullo sfondo e l’assenza della Grande Mela si avverte.
Alleanze segrete e tradimenti aggroviglieranno la trama di Tempestuous, personaggi che fin ora avevano visto più marginalmente o avevamo solo sentito nominare ora calcheranno le scene. I giani delle porte, i sovrani della corte dell’estate e della primavera in questo romanzo avranno modo di farsi conoscere dal lettore in tutta la loro potenza.
Bisogna scegliere le proprie battaglie e il segreto della vittoria sta nello scegliere quelle che si ha la certezza di vincere, questo è il consiglio che Fenris il Lupo dà a Kelley. Adesso sta a lei capire quali sono le strade da intraprendere, di chi fidarsi e chi combattere.
Va detto che dove la Livingston inserisce le dinamiche tipiche dello young adult il romanzo perde un po’ della sua lucentezza, che al contrario si sprigiona con tutta forza nelle parti, forse più care alla stessa scrittrice, dove i suoi personaggi calcano le scene della grande commedia delle azioni. L’inserimento di una specie di triangolo amoroso, anche se non preponderante nella storia, avvicina Tempestuous ad altri romanzi young adult uniformandolo, almeno in questi aspetti, alle tante narrazioni di genere che l’hanno preceduto.
Dopo Wondrous Strange, il secondo e terzo capitolo della storia di Kelley e delle creature fatate brillano un po’ meno, ma questo non significa che la storia che ci viene raccontata non sappia coinvolgere. Tra i vari romanzi che trattano la materia fatata certamente la trilogia della Livingston si colloca nelle sfere più alte della classifica grazie ad un’idea che nel complesso è e rimane originale e ben strutturata. Il lettore si è affezionato ai personaggi e leggerà Tempestuous con piacere e con il desiderio di scoprire quale sarà la scena finale una volta che Lesley Livingston deciderà di calare il sipario sui suoi personaggi e sulla loro storia.
January 11, 2011
Lesley Livingston left readers hanging with a gut wrenching conclusion to DARKLIGHT... not only was it intense, but readers were left to wait for answers for months. Luckily, Livingston knows exactly what her characters (and readers!) need. Every bit of emotional turmoil inflicted on the characters and readers in the second installment is essential to fully appreciate Kelley's journey and this phenomenal final chapter to her story.
I don't regret reading these books as they were released, but, if you haven't read any of them yet, I highly recommend reading them all in rapid succession rather than with months in between. Each time I picked up the newest installment, I was worried that I'd be forgetting a briefly mentioned detail that would tie everything together. I really love these books, so I have a pretty good memory of the events and whatnot, but there's something to be said about reading a trilogy or series all in one monstrous bite. I'm a strong proponent of Kelley and Sonny's relationship, so I felt the sting of DARKLIGHT's conclusion during the wait for TEMPESTUOUS, but I think some of my wild longing for this third book dissipated over the long months I waited. Take my word for it, these books are well worth reading, and, now that they're all released, it's the perfect time to pick them up.
Livingston writes absolutely fantastic love scenes... and fight scenes. Sometimes she even combines them... there will be an epic battle and then a little timeout for some kissing and then back to the fight. Love it!
I have a love/hate relationship with the Sonny-Kelley-Fennrys love triangle... because I honestly have a hard time choosing and that isn't normal for me. It does, however, show just how good Livingston at writing the romance aspect of her stories. This part of the novel is so realistic to me... Kelley loves Sonny, but that doesn't mean that she can't have feelings for someone else. Still, she must look within herself and determine what her feelings for Fenn mean not only for her, but for her relationship with Sonny. Ahhh, yes. Many of us have had to figure out this confusing debacle.
I appreciate that Kelley is such a strong individual and that her growth is clearly evident throughout each book. Not only does she develop her skills and gifts in regard to her faerie heritage, she also learns to take charge of her life and do what she thinks is right, even if it ends up causing all kinds of trouble and heartache. Even faerie princesses get confused when it comes to duty and love and all the rest... but Kelley takes charge and does what needs to be done.
I would be heartbroken about this trilogy ending, but for the fact that I know Livingston has more stories to tell and worlds and characters to introduce her readers to... and I'm anxious to meet them all!
I don't regret reading these books as they were released, but, if you haven't read any of them yet, I highly recommend reading them all in rapid succession rather than with months in between. Each time I picked up the newest installment, I was worried that I'd be forgetting a briefly mentioned detail that would tie everything together. I really love these books, so I have a pretty good memory of the events and whatnot, but there's something to be said about reading a trilogy or series all in one monstrous bite. I'm a strong proponent of Kelley and Sonny's relationship, so I felt the sting of DARKLIGHT's conclusion during the wait for TEMPESTUOUS, but I think some of my wild longing for this third book dissipated over the long months I waited. Take my word for it, these books are well worth reading, and, now that they're all released, it's the perfect time to pick them up.
Livingston writes absolutely fantastic love scenes... and fight scenes. Sometimes she even combines them... there will be an epic battle and then a little timeout for some kissing and then back to the fight. Love it!
I have a love/hate relationship with the Sonny-Kelley-Fennrys love triangle... because I honestly have a hard time choosing and that isn't normal for me. It does, however, show just how good Livingston at writing the romance aspect of her stories. This part of the novel is so realistic to me... Kelley loves Sonny, but that doesn't mean that she can't have feelings for someone else. Still, she must look within herself and determine what her feelings for Fenn mean not only for her, but for her relationship with Sonny. Ahhh, yes. Many of us have had to figure out this confusing debacle.
I appreciate that Kelley is such a strong individual and that her growth is clearly evident throughout each book. Not only does she develop her skills and gifts in regard to her faerie heritage, she also learns to take charge of her life and do what she thinks is right, even if it ends up causing all kinds of trouble and heartache. Even faerie princesses get confused when it comes to duty and love and all the rest... but Kelley takes charge and does what needs to be done.
I would be heartbroken about this trilogy ending, but for the fact that I know Livingston has more stories to tell and worlds and characters to introduce her readers to... and I'm anxious to meet them all!
January 14, 2011
The last book of the trilogy and another really good read. These books are loosely based on old characters of the fey who are a part of Kelley's life and of her heritage. As a budding young actress in Shakespeare plays, she fights to understand her powers and to keep Sonny from realizing just who he is. His incredible power and heritage is revealed in the second book, but Kelley has had the memory taken from him to protect him. Was she right in doing this or was it a betrayal of sorts not to allow him to make his own decisions? As the story proceeds, Sonny's fellow Janus Guard member (they are changelings who guard the gates between the mortal world and the otherworld),the Fennrys Wolf, comes even more into the story in a sort of love triangle way. It is not an obvious relationship but more of a subtle hint of feelings. Fenn has saved Sonny more than once and done the same for Kelley and has been their strongest ally against those who are out to harm them all. So far his loyalty to them both has been a constant, but at times one has to wonder if he would really rather Sonny were not around. This plays out throughout the book. It is an action packed book and a fun read.
I have to admit I was rather drawn to Fennrys throughout this series or at least in the second book and this one. Maybe he would have been my choice. He was a Viking prince taken by the Faeries as a child and raised to be a Janus Guard. Several times he mentions how he was cheated out of his rightful place leading his people and dying an honorable death instead of being given a longer life as a Janus. I won't do a spoiler but Fenn brought tears to my eyes in this book.
The cast in this book, and many of them are indeed a cast as the mortals in Kelley's troop, are part of the story and are interesting and varied. I had a little trouble identifying with Sonny and in the last book I still didn't have a real strong mental picture of him. That kind of took away from the books for me, and may be what kept them from being a five star read for me.
I have to admit I was rather drawn to Fennrys throughout this series or at least in the second book and this one. Maybe he would have been my choice. He was a Viking prince taken by the Faeries as a child and raised to be a Janus Guard. Several times he mentions how he was cheated out of his rightful place leading his people and dying an honorable death instead of being given a longer life as a Janus. I won't do a spoiler but Fenn brought tears to my eyes in this book.
The cast in this book, and many of them are indeed a cast as the mortals in Kelley's troop, are part of the story and are interesting and varied. I had a little trouble identifying with Sonny and in the last book I still didn't have a real strong mental picture of him. That kind of took away from the books for me, and may be what kept them from being a five star read for me.
December 3, 2010
Lesley's Wondrous Strange series is my all time favorite faerie creation. The sequel, Darklight concluded with a cliffhanger that left me salivating for the last installment, Tempestuous. Once I snagged a copy, my expectations were high for an enchanting and action-packed deliverance. Lesley continued to please me with her sophisticated writing and detailed character definitions. Each individual introduced, especially the lost fae, had their own voice and personality traits. The connection between the characters were established in a way, where I felt comfortable with their unannounced appearances. Now, Kelley remained an admirable female protagonist that blossomed into a fine faerie princess. Her knowledge and technique escalated her ability to gain access to her underlying roots. While Sonny, the handsome, heart-stopping Janus shocked me with a discovery I wasn't expecting.
This time around, due to an unexpected occurrence, the couple went separate ways. As individuals, their strength was present, however I missed the romantic and electric energy between the two. I must say though, the only disappointment was the slow build up throughout the novel. On a bright note, the last one hundred pages reminded me why I fell in love with this trilogy. The plot's twists and turns ignited a joyous ride, I wish didn't conclude. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. In my opinion, Lesley's creative and magical world will forever withstand any other faerie series (unless I'm proven wrong). The distinguished wording and endearing story line will leave me with good memories. I am saddened to see it go, but excited to see the next series, Starlight coming in 2012! If you haven't read this trilogy yet, I recommend you do so, especially if you love spunky females and sexy male leads.
This time around, due to an unexpected occurrence, the couple went separate ways. As individuals, their strength was present, however I missed the romantic and electric energy between the two. I must say though, the only disappointment was the slow build up throughout the novel. On a bright note, the last one hundred pages reminded me why I fell in love with this trilogy. The plot's twists and turns ignited a joyous ride, I wish didn't conclude. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. In my opinion, Lesley's creative and magical world will forever withstand any other faerie series (unless I'm proven wrong). The distinguished wording and endearing story line will leave me with good memories. I am saddened to see it go, but excited to see the next series, Starlight coming in 2012! If you haven't read this trilogy yet, I recommend you do so, especially if you love spunky females and sexy male leads.
October 12, 2012
I'm unsure how to start this review... It's been so long since I read 'Darklight', almost 8 months, and I've read a lot of other books in between so I've kind of forgotten what had happened at the end of the previous book. It didn't take me long to get back in to the swing of Lelsey Livingston's beautiful writing, but I felt like something was missing. I think that spark between Kelley & Sonny wasn't there for me or maybe I've read other books since where the connections between lovers is stronger than this. The magic and adventure wasn't there either. I would pick this up, read a chapter then put it down again because the story wasn't sucking me in. It took me nearly two weeks to finish this because of that reason.
I felt like there was so much build up during the first two books in to figuring out who the evil was behind it all that when I did find out, it was a let down. The reason I was let down was because I felt like everything was sorted out too quickly and was wrapped up too easily. Small thing to complain about, but it got to me. To give away the ending, it was happy (thankfully) and I will still think very highly of 'Wondrous Strange' and continue to read Lesley Livingston's books even though I didn't enjoy this as much.
To sum up, I don't know if it was the mood I was in when reading this or simply I had lost the connection to the series. Whatever the reason, I felt like it was a chore to read 'Tempestuous' which is very, very sad. (Still 3 stars because of my past love for these characters.)
Also on my blog http://love-sami13.blogspot.com.au/20...
I felt like there was so much build up during the first two books in to figuring out who the evil was behind it all that when I did find out, it was a let down. The reason I was let down was because I felt like everything was sorted out too quickly and was wrapped up too easily. Small thing to complain about, but it got to me. To give away the ending, it was happy (thankfully) and I will still think very highly of 'Wondrous Strange' and continue to read Lesley Livingston's books even though I didn't enjoy this as much.
To sum up, I don't know if it was the mood I was in when reading this or simply I had lost the connection to the series. Whatever the reason, I felt like it was a chore to read 'Tempestuous' which is very, very sad. (Still 3 stars because of my past love for these characters.)
Also on my blog http://love-sami13.blogspot.com.au/20...
January 10, 2012
I enjoyed this book a lot. I loved that the author actually separated Kelley and Sonny for a bit. That way, they learned more about themselves before they could save one another. Kelley gets into her power more and seems to have grown more. And despite her beliefs, Sonny doesn’t go off the deep end. I liked that Sonny grew to like the Lost Fae. He was taught to hate them as well, but found out they were only defending themselves against him and the other guards. But besides our great main characters, the side characters were incredible. We got some new ones that we find have a connection to some of the Janus Guards. We also get more of our favorites; Bob, Tyff, and my favorite character, Fennyrs. I am praying that Livingston makes another series for him. He played a big role in this book and we find he isn’t the heartless smartass we have come to love, that he actually has feelings for Kelley too.
I have a love/hate relationship with the Sonny-Kelley-Fennrys love triangle... because I honestly have a hard time choosing and that isn't normal for me. It does, however, show just how good the author is at writing the romance aspect of her stories. This part of the novel is so realistic to me... Kelley loves Sonny, but that doesn't mean that she can't have feelings for someone else. Still, she must look within herself and determine what her feelings for Fenn mean not only for her, but for her relationship with Sonny
A perfect way to end the serie and thumbs up to Lesley Livingston to have incorpoprate shakespeare so brillantly in this story!
I have a love/hate relationship with the Sonny-Kelley-Fennrys love triangle... because I honestly have a hard time choosing and that isn't normal for me. It does, however, show just how good the author is at writing the romance aspect of her stories. This part of the novel is so realistic to me... Kelley loves Sonny, but that doesn't mean that she can't have feelings for someone else. Still, she must look within herself and determine what her feelings for Fenn mean not only for her, but for her relationship with Sonny
A perfect way to end the serie and thumbs up to Lesley Livingston to have incorpoprate shakespeare so brillantly in this story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2011
A satisfying ending to the trilogy. Didn't see the dragon coming! Kind of Sleeping Beauty almost there at the end. There were plot twists that I did not expect, so I enjoyed being surprised. I like how the whole time Kelley thought she would be Sonny's greatest weakness but in the end she was his greatest strength. Aw. Sweet. :)
I like how the parental issues Kelley has with her parents are reunited. I like how Sonny gets to find out who is dad is.
I feel bad for Mabh. I know she's wicked, and she certainly was in the first novel, but she isn't really too wicked in this one and the second one. Probably because she is too busy keeping her power and staying alive, but I still feel bad for her. She never seems to get to have a love, a companion.
Titania is just . . . annoying. And clueless. And easily manipulated.
I really like how the author tied in so many Shakespeare references to all three of the novels.
"There are always two sides to every story, Kelley. Something I learned playing Richard the Third and Macbeth: if you're playing the 'bad guy,' you never really think of yourself as bad. It's just that your motives are often . . . misunderstood by everyone else."
All in all, it is a pretty solid trilogy if you are looking for a bit of fun involving faeries. There is some violence and a bit of swearing.
I like how the parental issues Kelley has with her parents are reunited. I like how Sonny gets to find out who is dad is.
I feel bad for Mabh. I know she's wicked, and she certainly was in the first novel, but she isn't really too wicked in this one and the second one. Probably because she is too busy keeping her power and staying alive, but I still feel bad for her. She never seems to get to have a love, a companion.
Titania is just . . . annoying. And clueless. And easily manipulated.
I really like how the author tied in so many Shakespeare references to all three of the novels.
"There are always two sides to every story, Kelley. Something I learned playing Richard the Third and Macbeth: if you're playing the 'bad guy,' you never really think of yourself as bad. It's just that your motives are often . . . misunderstood by everyone else."
All in all, it is a pretty solid trilogy if you are looking for a bit of fun involving faeries. There is some violence and a bit of swearing.
December 13, 2012
Rating: 3.5
An awesome end to this series, and a great pick up from where the last book left off. I am really happy with the balance of the real world, fae world, romance, action, and adventure. There are quite a few twists and turns, but the characters are still truthful to who they are, and you can see the development from book one. I think this was the strongest book of the series. And I loved the ending.
And this little reference to book one:
...Sonny Flannery stared down at her, his face a stony mask. He leaned forward, reaching out a hand toward her...then plucked a rose petal from the tangles of her hair and held it up between them...The petal quivered and multiplied until he had a perfect bloom in the palm of his hand. He looked at it, as if seeing a rose for the first time. "I remember...I only wanted to give you this," he murmured. "You looked as though you could use something...nice..."
"You were right," Kelley said, remembering, too, the moment they'd first met...
An awesome end to this series, and a great pick up from where the last book left off. I am really happy with the balance of the real world, fae world, romance, action, and adventure. There are quite a few twists and turns, but the characters are still truthful to who they are, and you can see the development from book one. I think this was the strongest book of the series. And I loved the ending.
And this little reference to book one:
...Sonny Flannery stared down at her, his face a stony mask. He leaned forward, reaching out a hand toward her...then plucked a rose petal from the tangles of her hair and held it up between them...The petal quivered and multiplied until he had a perfect bloom in the palm of his hand. He looked at it, as if seeing a rose for the first time. "I remember...I only wanted to give you this," he murmured. "You looked as though you could use something...nice..."
"You were right," Kelley said, remembering, too, the moment they'd first met...
August 15, 2011
I would love to give this a five star rating I really would. I adored this series; but I have to say that toward the end I was somewhat expecting the ending.
Oh Fenn! Arggh!! (all I'm saying)
Sonny and Kelley of course are fantastic together.
I was however shocked how early on in the book the lies started being revealed but such is fiction :-)
Any way it was a good read; some unexpected alliances, some unexpected sacrafices *maybe not so much* but in theory.
A nice closing to the triology; may I just say maybe she could do a spin off with Fenn and his new adventures (just a thought)
Oh Fenn! Arggh!! (all I'm saying)
Sonny and Kelley of course are fantastic together.
I was however shocked how early on in the book the lies started being revealed but such is fiction :-)
Any way it was a good read; some unexpected alliances, some unexpected sacrafices *maybe not so much* but in theory.
A nice closing to the triology; may I just say maybe she could do a spin off with Fenn and his new adventures (just a thought)
April 25, 2011
I must say that was disappointed at the conclusion of this entertaining series. The first half of the book is really tedious. Kelley dumped Sonny (for his own good) and he wanders lost for a good 100 pages while Kelley is despondent and mopey for the same 100 pages. We finally get some action around page 125. and for a while it was exciting and dangerous. But the ending was rushed and unlikely given the animosity between the Faerie courts. I think this conclusion could have been handled better and more realistically. Disappointed but glad the series is over since I'm not sure I could read another one.
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