The first thing that will strike you when reading The Frost Eater by Carol Beth Anderson, is her impeccable world-building. Her post-apocalyptic worldThe first thing that will strike you when reading The Frost Eater by Carol Beth Anderson, is her impeccable world-building. Her post-apocalyptic world is vibrant and full of small details that make the story pop. Her magic system, with its “eaters” that take on the ability to create and cast the materials they consume, is unlike anything I have read before. Every time Krey swallowed feathers, I was squirming in my seat, imagining the feeling of them going down his throat.
The story opens with Nora, a spoiled princess - not spoiled in a bratty, unlikeable way, but rather in a coddled, cared-for manner you might expect for a princess who doesn’t have to face the everyday realities of the world. A small detail that spoke volumes for me: Nora has an endless supply of ice for her casting; a luxury that other frost eaters don’t have, and she has as much as she can use. She has the affection of her father and the confidence of a young woman who has never really heard “no” in her life. Into this pampered life comes Krey, a young man, on a mission to find someone dear to him, whatever the cost. Through her friendship with Krey, Nora will learn that her world isn’t quite as perfect as she might think.
The tale has action, intrigue, love-interests, and a strong core of friendship at its heart. It is a perfect read for YA fans who want something that will carry them to another place and time without delay. The story starts and whisks the reader along, exploring the world that Anderson has crafted so well. As a reader, I felt confident that I was in good hands, and Anderson never disappointed. She is a talented writer and her inventive world is not to be missed. ...more
As a fan of Nash's previous work, the Wicked Wolves of Windsor, I knew I was in good hands with this YA fantasy offering. Nash has a wonderful way of As a fan of Nash's previous work, the Wicked Wolves of Windsor, I knew I was in good hands with this YA fantasy offering. Nash has a wonderful way of weaving old myths and fairytales into modern stories and Book One of this new series is no exception. She excels in world-building and creating a vibrant reality for her characters. I loved the small touches - characters that have flaws and quirks like all of us. Her main character, Brigit, is capable and confident - maybe even a bit too confident - and she reminds me of many new college students who are now in a new environment and are finding their way. The fact that the story involves fae students, a Siren with some serious boundary issues, and a fictional European country that I would love to visit is just bonus. At its heart, the story is the start of a coming of age tale that promises growth and change for our heroine, along with adventure for her bondmates. Never Date a Siren is perfect for fans of YA/NA as well as though who like thoughtful fantasy and old tales with new twists....more
Full disclosure: I am one of the authors. That said, the other 13 stories are varied, engaging, seasonal and inventive in how they approached our commFull disclosure: I am one of the authors. That said, the other 13 stories are varied, engaging, seasonal and inventive in how they approached our common theme. I really think there is something for every reader in this anthology. I hope you check it out and support a worthwhile charity. Cheers, KA Miltimore...more
4.5 stars. This story really engaged me, primarily with the relationship of the main character, Bella, and her father. You don't often see how ageing,4.5 stars. This story really engaged me, primarily with the relationship of the main character, Bella, and her father. You don't often see how ageing, and mental health issues, can affect adult children and how they interact with their parents. It was refreshing to see the challenges of dealing with a parent in crisis, woven into a mystery and budding romance. It added depth and character to Bella's story. The duo of Bella and Gideon would make a nice series and I could see all kinds of adventures for them. Enjoyable read when you want something with heart, connection, mystery and grown up romance....more
I loved this prequel because the whole time I was wondering "what would I do" in the main character's shoes. She's a teenager in Chicago, when somethiI loved this prequel because the whole time I was wondering "what would I do" in the main character's shoes. She's a teenager in Chicago, when something very wrong breaks out very quickly. Things we all rely on break down - cellphone service, electricity, security. The Change is a shorter story and my only criticism is that for me it could have been a little longer because Cass Kim did a great job building tension and planting hints as to what was coming. I am glad I read this prequel before jumping into the subsequent novel, Wilders. I can't wait to see where this situation goes. For me, a modern horror story is scariest when it deals with a plague type situation and how life is impacted by that Change....more
I loved this prequel because the whole time I was wondering "what would I do" in the main character's shoes. She's a teenager in Chicago, when somethiI loved this prequel because the whole time I was wondering "what would I do" in the main character's shoes. She's a teenager in Chicago, when something very wrong breaks out very quickly. Things we all rely on break down - cellphone service, electricity, security. The Change is a shorter story and my only criticism is that for me it could have been a little longer because Cass Kim did a great job building tension and planting hints as to what was coming. I am glad I read this prequel before jumping into the subsequent novel, Wilders. I can't wait to see where this situation goes. For me, a modern horror story is scariest when it deals with a plague type situation and how life is impacted by that Change....more
Fairytales from a modern perspective - I loved each one. As a fan of fairytales but not always the archaic language and sensibilities of writers from Fairytales from a modern perspective - I loved each one. As a fan of fairytales but not always the archaic language and sensibilities of writers from long past, it was great to read motifs done in a modern view point. Whimsy, humor, and plenty of lessons to teach - as all good fairytales have. I really enjoyed this short read and look forward to more....more
Set in the 1950s, the dialogue and descriptions are spot on in this engaging and fun paranormal detective mystery. Whistleberry's intrepid reporter, JSet in the 1950s, the dialogue and descriptions are spot on in this engaging and fun paranormal detective mystery. Whistleberry's intrepid reporter, Jim Malhaven, starts off as a hard-boiled WWII vet with scars both internal and external, chasing down a "human interest" story involving a ghost named Wally. The story evolves from there and the author brings in classic noir elements such as the femme fatale, gritty night scenes and atmospheric locales. She also brings in such nuanced topics as race in 50s America and small town secrets. I highly recommend The Weird Sisters of Wynter's Hill. It has all the fun and page turning drama of a great pulp fiction novel from the golden era of noir, with a dose of supernatural that will keep you guessing about what is really haunting Wynter's Hill. ...more
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