This book is a really well written book. It's adventurous, action-packed and the write influenced me in such a way that I was able to imagine myself fThis book is a really well written book. It's adventurous, action-packed and the write influenced me in such a way that I was able to imagine myself from the main protagonist's shoes. The story revolves around a seventeen year old boy, Áed, who lives with his partner, Ninian and an orphaned boy, Ronan. The story is really well-written and is able to convey the right amount of feelings that the author wanted to convey. In short, this book is a fast-paced thrilling, coming-of-age adventure. I would totally recommend it to everybody! I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me this opportunity to review this wonderful book.
Merged review:
This book is a really well written book. It's adventurous, action-packed and the write influenced me in such a way that I was able to imagine myself from the main protagonist's shoes. The story revolves around a seventeen year old boy, Áed, who lives with his partner, Ninian and an orphaned boy, Ronan. The story is really well-written and is able to convey the right amount of feelings that the author wanted to convey. In short, this book is a fast-paced thrilling, coming-of-age adventure. I would totally recommend it to everybody! I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me this opportunity to review this wonderful book....more
"The King Will Kill You" by Sarah Henning is the third and final installment in the Kingdom of Sand and Sky series, and it delivers a satisfying concl"The King Will Kill You" by Sarah Henning is the third and final installment in the Kingdom of Sand and Sky series, and it delivers a satisfying conclusion to the story of Amarande and Luca. The book is full of action, suspense, and heart, making it a fitting finale to the series.
Henning's writing style is immersive and engaging, drawing the reader into the richly detailed world she has created. The characters are well-developed, with Amarande and Luca continuing to be strong and likable protagonists who face numerous challenges and obstacles on their journey.
Another standout aspect of this book is the world-building. Henning has created a vivid and intricate world that is full of magic, political intrigue, and complex power dynamics. The different kingdoms and factions all have their own unique cultures and histories, which adds depth and complexity to the story.
However, one criticism of the book is that some plot points and character motivations are not fully fleshed out. The story moves quickly, and some elements feel rushed or underdeveloped, leaving the reader wanting more depth and nuance.
Additionally, while the action scenes are well-written, they can sometimes feel repetitive or formulaic. The battles and confrontations follow a similar pattern, which can make them feel less impactful and exciting.
Overall, "The King Will Kill You" is a solid conclusion to the Kingdom of Sand and Sky series that will satisfy fans of the previous books. While there are some criticisms to be made, Henning's writing style and the strong characterizations of Amarande and Luca make this book a worthwhile read....more
"Daughters of Sparta" by Claire Heywood is a captivating and richly detailed historical fiction novel that explores the lives of two legendary women o"Daughters of Sparta" by Claire Heywood is a captivating and richly detailed historical fiction novel that explores the lives of two legendary women of ancient Greece: Helen of Troy and her sister, Clytemnestra. Heywood's writing style is evocative and immersive, transporting the reader to the world of ancient Greece, with all its grandeur, beauty, and brutality.
The story follows the sisters from childhood to adulthood, as they navigate their complex relationships with each other, their families, and the men who shape their lives. Heywood does an excellent job of bringing the two sisters to life, imbuing them with unique personalities, desires, and struggles. Helen is portrayed as a fiercely independent and intelligent woman, who longs for adventure and freedom. Clytemnestra, on the other hand, is more pragmatic and stoic, but equally determined to chart her own path in life.
The novel's exploration of the sisters' relationship is one of its strongest aspects. Heywood delves into the complexities of their bond, highlighting the love, jealousy, rivalry, and betrayal that exists between them. The depiction of their sisterhood is realistic and nuanced, with both sisters portrayed as flawed and multidimensional characters.
Heywood's attention to historical detail is also impressive. The novel is steeped in ancient Greek mythology, culture, and politics, with the events and characters of the Trojan War serving as a backdrop to the sisters' story. The descriptions of the settings, clothing, and customs of ancient Greece are vivid and well-researched, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the story.
The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with enough action, drama, and character development to keep the reader engaged throughout the story. The alternating perspectives between Helen and Clytemnestra also add an extra layer of depth to the narrative, allowing the reader to see events from both sisters' perspectives.
Overall, "Daughters of Sparta" is a beautifully written and compelling historical fiction novel that will appeal to fans of Greek mythology and ancient history. Heywood's immersive writing style, well-developed characters, and attention to historical detail make for a captivating reading experience....more
First of, the cover looks awesome and appropriate for the novel. I immediately fell in love with it and clicked the 'Request' button on NetGalley.
TahiFirst of, the cover looks awesome and appropriate for the novel. I immediately fell in love with it and clicked the 'Request' button on NetGalley.
Tahira has her future all planned out, right from when she was seven years old. Get into an amazing fashion internship, keep designing for portfolio, increase social media influence and get in to the dream college in New York. But when a parakeet disrupts her perfect plan, she is left with no other choice but to go to Bakewell, where everything is flowery and gain fashion experience by working in her aunt's boutique. Not only did she have to deal with working at the simple boutique and living in a tiny house made of pine, but also the rude grumpy garden nerd next door.
The writing style is simple, easy to understand and laugh-out-loud humorous at places. The setting of Bakewell, the flower capital of Ontario, is wonderfully described. The characters were diverse- both in terms of personality and representation. There's representation of South Asian Muslim, Black, Pansexual and Bi. I loved how toxic friends were identified and how the mc realized it. I also liked the lovely way in which passion for art is described!
The desi-parent thing- the parents being totally supportive of their kids' ambition was totally unrelatable for me. I am an Indian (if you don't know that already), and I totally know the real 'desi parenting'- no matter what your ambitions are or where your interests lie, you are expected to become a doctor or engineer. You are not supposed to choose even your parents' profession (if they are not a doctor or engineer). I wish Rowan was more of a normal looking guy than a drop-dead-gorgeous guy. I keep telling myself while reading fantasy that, may be, the laws of nature in that world doesn't work the same way. I seriously feel that YA books, at least Contemporary, should have representation of not-so-gorgeous, not-so-perfect people. I also sometimes felt that the main character was too self-centered and a bit judgy but her character development in the second half of the book does solve some of that.
Overall, Tahira in Bloom is a quick, satisfying read that shows that life does not always go on as planned and is full of surprises. I thank NetGalley and Skyscape for giving me this wonderful opportunity to read and review Tahira in Bloom. All opinions are my own....more
The Apartment is a fast-paced psychological thriller. I was able to finish the entire book within one sitting. There were many twists but most of themThe Apartment is a fast-paced psychological thriller. I was able to finish the entire book within one sitting. There were many twists but most of them ended up being predictable. I liked the build-up towards the end. The climax was awesome too....more
I loved this book even more than the first one! It answers so many questions I had in the first book. This book offers us a wider perspective of the KI loved this book even more than the first one! It answers so many questions I had in the first book. This book offers us a wider perspective of the Kingdom of Sand and Sky. There are more scheming, politics, plot twists and badass characters in this book. Even though I felt a lack of relationship development in the first book, I absolutely adored Luca and Amarande. Luca and Ama, my heart!!! I need to take a breath before writing a full review (or a full fledged rant about Luca and Ama). So, its RTC I guess.
P.S.- I thought the cover couldn't get any better than the first book but BAMM!!! This one is even more gorgeous. I-could-just-stare-at-it-all-day, drop-dead, breathtaking gorgeous. Charlie Bowater has done an amazing job (AGAIN!!!) and I just can't wait for the next book's cover....more