Category Archives: Book Review

Magic’s Price by Mercedes Lackey

May 6, 2016Book ReviewFantasy, Mercedes Lackey, Romance, The Last Herald Mage, Valdemar, Vanyelskyebjenner

Title: Magic’s Price
Author: Mercedes Lackey
Series: The Last Herald Mage #3, Valdemar #6
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Fantasy, Romance
Pace: Medium
Format: Novel
Publisher: Daw fantasy
Year: 1990
5th sentence, 74th page: What if he thinks I’m just some kind of bedazzled child?

Valdemar – the once-peaceful kingdom protected by the magic of its Herald-Mages – is now beseiged on all fronts. The king lies near death, the neighboring land of Karse wages a relentless war against Valdemar, and the forces led by a master of dark forbidden magic are massing to strike the final devastating blow against the kingdom.

And Vanyel, the most powerful Herald-Mage Valdemar has ever known, has become the primary target of the evil which is reaching out to poison all the land. With all his fellow mages slain, Vanyel alone remains to defend his people against the dark master’s army. yet a dream vision has revealed to Vanyel the fate which awaits should he and his Companion Yfandes take up the dark master’s challenge. And if either Vanyel or Yfandes falters, the dream will become a horrifying reality in which both Valdemar and its last Herald-Mage must pay the ultimate price…

I loved the entire The Last Herald Mage trilogy, and the finale certainly didn’t disappoint. Even though I knew what the ending would be from mentions in other Valdemar books, but, I still wanted to watch the entire tragedy unfold.

This stunning conclusion not only restored your faith in the world and love, but it also took you on a journey to the creation of so many things within the Valdemar world. The woods were Talia and Kris fought, the vrondi from the Collegium chronicles, the fact that the Heralds became automatically connected – it all made sense because of this story. Not only did I have the pleasure of watching Vanyel’s last stand unfold, Lackey helped me to understand so many other aspects of the Valdemar-verse that I didn’t even realise I was misunderstanding.

And then there was the introduction of Stefan – Bard Stefan who we hear so much about in the other books finally bought to life in all of his beauty and vibrancy. The moment he entered the pages, I was in love. Actually, his purity, sweetness and talent reminded me so much of one of my best friends that I just wanted to hold him.

Although I knew how Vanyel’s last stand would end – I did not expect the ending to the book. Lackey takes a feeling of disappointment (after Vanyel finally finds Stefan and vice versa) and makes it into a beautiful ending that will definitely bring a tear to your eyes.

<- Magic’s Promise

Foundation ->

Image source: Wikia

Magic’s Promise by Mercedes Lackey

May 3, 2016Book ReviewFantasy, Mercedes Lackey, Romance, The Last Herald Mage, Valdemar, Vanyelskyebjenner

Title: Magic’s Promise
Author: Mercedes Lackey
Series: The Last Herald Mage #2, Valdemar #5
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Fantasy, Romance
Pace: Medium
Format: Novel
Publisher: Daw fantasy
Year: 1990
5th sentence, 74th page: The Inn had certainly marked his passage into a different world, though young Vanyel Ashkevron, more than half a prisoner of his escort, had not gotten the attention that Herald-Mage Vanyel got now.

The wild magic

Is taking its toll on the land. Many Heralds and Herald-Mages have died fighting to preserve peace. Even Vanyel, the most powerful of the Herald-Mages is almost at the end of his strength, in need of a respite from the dual threats of war and dark magic.

But for Vanyel, there can be no reast. Not when his Companion, Yfandes, receives a summons which can’t be ignored – a desperate cry for help which draws them both into the heart of a magical holocaust in the neighboring kingdom. Almost overwhelmed by the devastation they discover there, Herald-Mage and Companion must try to unravel this tragic mystery. Is the young Prince Tashir, a newly Chosen Herald who can’t control his own magic, responsible for the destruction? Or is Tashir a pawn in a deeper, more deadly game – and, if so, will Vanyel be able to find and defeat the true destroyer before this master of dark powers can strike again?

It took me a while to pick this one up after the first book in this series. Actually, I had to go and read an entirely different, but happier book to be able to face more of Vanyel’s tale. But, on the same token, I was just itching to find out what happened next in his journey. And, let me tell you, I wasn’t disappointed!

The book starts years after Vanyel has learnt to deal with the pain of his loss. And I say deal with, not accept. And not move on. Sometimes there is only one true love in life, and I can’t fathom losing such a one so early in life. I found that very thought to be so incredibly gut-wrenching and heart-breaking. But, also in dealing with such loss in life to serve and protect others, a kind of light and inspiration. That we may feel pain, and we may lose loved ones, but there is always someone left behind who needs you. I think that this is a tie for many people to the living world, and it very much struck me that this was the case with Vanyel.

Not only has Vanyel found a purpose in a life without romantic love, but he also has managed to gain control of an unfathomable amount of power. I loved that this was a story about a man with power – who used it for the greater good.

Even though I still think that this is the darkest series I have so far read by Lackey, I also found it to be the most inspiring. It’s true that there is no light without the dark, and I think that this is just so beautifully highlighted in this book. Just make sure you have some chocolate next to you to light your way in the darkest moments…

<- Magic’s Pawn

Magic’s Price ->

Image source: Goodreads

Magic’s Pawn by Mercedes Lackey

April 29, 2016Book ReviewDepression, Fantasy, Heralds, LGBTQ, Mercedes Lackey, Romance, The Last Herald Mage, Valdemar, Vanyelskyebjenner

Title: Magic’s Pawn
Author: Mercedes Lackey
Series: The Last Herald Mage #1, Valdemar #4
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Fantasy, Romance
Pace: Medium
Format: Novel
Publisher: Daw fantasy
Year: 1989
5th sentence, 74th page: She watched the power-barrier he had built about himself with her Mage-Sight, and Saw the pale violet half-dome waver as he turned his attention to her question and lost a bit of control over the shield.

Mage-craft

Though Vanyel has been born with near-legendary abilities to work both herald and Mage magic, he wants no part of such things. Nor does he seek a warrior’s path, wishing instead to become a Bard. yet such talent as his if left untrained may prove a menace not only to Vanyel but to others as well. So he is sent to be fostered with his aunt, Savil, one of the famed herald-Mages of Valdemar.

But, strong-willed and self-centered, Vanyel is a challenge which even Savil can not master alone. For soon he will become the focus of frightening forces, lending his raw magic to a spell that unleashes terrifying wyr-hunters on the land. And by the time Savil seeks the assistance of a Shin’a’in Adept, Vanyel’s wild talent may have already grown beyond anyone’s ability to contain, placing Vanyel, Savil, and Valdemar itself in desperate peril…

This is one of the most hard-hitting books that I’ve read in a long time. Ever since I read The Pact by Jodi Piccoult, actually. I think that it probably impacted me so heavily because Lackey investigated ideas of depression and not really believing that you are worth the air you breath. Feelings that I experienced a long time ago. This reminded me of those moments, but it also reminded me that I got through it and the strength that it can take to overcome such a debilitating illness.

This book for me was about not only dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts, but also about coming to terms with who you are. Which, for me, is a large part of overcoming such mental illnesses (I am well aware that this is different for everybody). Vanyel does this through the acceptance of his sexuality – as I said, this is a pretty hard-hitting book, not only does it investigate mental health, but also the struggles of the LGBTQ community. I haven’t read many books about this aspect of life that I have enjoyed so thoroughly and that have made me think and connect with my LGBTQ friends.

At the beginning of the book, Vanyel appears to be a very selfish, and almost unlikable hero. But, as it develops, you understand this is a coping mechanism (we all have them, and it’s fascinating how different people cope in different ways). Following him on his journey you discover more about how systematic abuse can seriously damage and change people and how the understanding of self and sexuality can be so integral to a healthy outlook on life and self. Thus far in reading the Valdemar books, Vanyel is definitely the most flawed and damaged hero. But in the end, this unique vulnerability and incredible journey is what really pulls on the heartstrings.

I haven’t felt so emotionally distraught and vulnerable after reading a book in a long time, and for that I’m glad. This was a book that made me think about my own past experiences and sympathise with what others around me are going through in their quest to accept themselves.

<- The Silver Gryphon

Magic’s Promise ->

Image source: Goodreads

I’d Rather Be Alone

April 28, 2016Book ReviewFriends, Introvert, OnDit, Study, Universityskyebjenner

Originally published by OnDit Issue 84.4 on Tuesday 26 April 2016.

Last month I was asked to go on my honours camp. It wasn’t compulsory, and was not only going to cost me money, but also mean that I would be missing work (and therefore losing more pay.) I decided not to go. Enter: my Mother. ‘Why don’t you go?’… ‘You should make some more friends.’….‘Stop being antisocial.’ It was really irritating, but it also made me wonder if there was something wrong with me. No, there’s not something wrong with me. I am just introverted. I’m not saying that myself (or other introverts) don’t have friends or enjoy their company. But, I personally like my very small group, and their familiarity with the ins, outs n crazies of Skye.They’re the people who know my history and are the key players in my life. And they love me. But these friends also get that I will quite literally disappear for a week or two without a word. They understand that I’d rather be alone.

Sometimes.

Sometimes being an introvert, and (in my case) just a little too weird for most people, isn’t fun at university. I remember my first year I was told that it was all about making friends.. I met new people, I laughed, I talked. And a month later I still didn’t feel like I’d made friends. But the years have taught me that uni isn’t necessarily about that, it’s about embracing who you are. So here are some of my favourite things about being an introvert and just being alone.

Being Weird
Not having a group of people around me all the time means that I can just be myself. I am slightly (alright, incredibly) kooky at times and sometimes it is really frustrating having to explain yourself to others. ‘No, I’m not “special”’. ‘Yes, I am smart’. And my personal favourite, ‘Yes I know what traffic lights are!’ (I’m from the Barossa, apparently some people assume that means no traffic…)

I love being able to dance and sing to my music when I want and not worry that I’m bothering somebody with the noise. Being alone means that I get to do what I want, when I want and that’s okay. Some days that means writing, or reading, or even crocheting a scarf (still mastering that skill I’m afraid). But regardless of what it means, sometimes being alone (even if you’re an extrovert) lets you embrace yourself – scars, bumps and everything.

Few Friends
I love my small group of friends; most days I can count on one hand the people that I class as true friends. It’s always refreshing to rock up to your mate’s house – in trackies, no bra s and a packet of favourite junk food in hand. They’re the friends that will let me come over, flop on their couch and sometimes never even say a word. I don’t get worried that I’ve made an ass of myself in front of them or that I’d somehow said something stupid.

Some of my more extroverted friends are constantly running around with other people’s drama – they love it, so I guess kudos to them. But that seems like the most draining thing to be doing.

Study
This is a university magazine, so eventually I was going to talk about study. I am in constant awe about how much I get done with no one else around. I get my assignments finished so much quicker, and it means I have heaps more time to do the things I love.

My first year of university I had one classmate who would rock up to a Biology tute every Wednesday morning hungover. Apparently he got insanely drunk every day or two. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good drink with friends, but being hungover in class? I’d rather not. Go the introverted sober studiers!

Fur Babies
I’d rather be alone, but I’m not technically alone. Even now with the house entirely to myself, I still have company. Not socialising every spare moment means that I get to spend so much more time with my fur babies.

Stressed out? Stuff a call to my friend, I’ll just grab my beagle puppy and give her a huge hug (if she holds still for long enough). In need of entertainment? Watch the dogs run around in circles. Or try and stop my possum from going straight down my shirt and scratching my stomach. Need a good, emotional booster? Start up a game with the dog and watch her be delirious with happiness.

In the end, I didn’t go to my honours camp. I spent the week reading, relaxing and just enjoying the company of myself and my fur babies. I can’t think of a better, or more productive way to spend my time.

Image source: Odyssey
Image source: The Huffington Post
Image source: Taken by author

Homecoming by Patricia Briggs

April 27, 2016Book ReviewGraphic Novels, Homecoming, Mercedes Thompson, Paranormal Fantasy, Patricia Briggs, Strong Women, Werewolvesskyebjenner

Title: Homecoming
Author: Patricia Briggs
Series: Mercedes Thompson #0.4, Mercy-verse #2
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Graphic novels, Paranormal fantasy, Strong women, Werewolves
Pace: Medium
Format: Graphic Novel
Publisher: Penguin
Year: 2009
5th sentence, 74th page: He’s hardly even a snack.

Mercy Thompson is a walker, a magical being with the power to transform into a coyote. She lives on the fine line dividing the everyday world from a darker dimension, observing the supernatural community while standing apart.

When Mercy travels to the Tri-Cities of Washington for a job interview, she quickly finds herself smack-dab in the middle of a gang war between rival packs of werewolves. And as if fangs and fur weren’t bad enough, Mercy must deal with the scariest creature of all: her mother, who is convinced that Mercy is making a mess of her life and determined to set her daughter on the right course.

This is the first graphic novel that I have read in my adult life, possibly my entire life. And I found it really enjoyable. I’m not hunting out other comics / graphic novels that will capture my fancy. Although I still don’t think that anything can replace a good, solid book. Homecoming was the origin story of one of my favourite fantasy characters – Mercedes Thompson. I’ve loved her from the moment I read Moon Called and this love affair has extended to all of Patricia Briggs’ books.

I thought that visiting Mercy Thompson’s first days in the Tri-Cities and telling the full story that is alluded to in the series, was a really nice concept. And doing this in a graphic form was such a novel idea to me (I’m sure many other authors have done this, just none that I’m currently obsessed with). Some of the storyline was not what I expected – I didn’t realise that there was a competition for control of the Tri-Cities for example when she first moved in. But so many details from the books were beautifully illustrated on these pages.

The characters in the graphic novel look nothing like what I pictured – but I think that that’s the beauty of writing – you can create your own images as you read. I had a similar experience with the Harry Potter books and movies. I’ve read a few reviews that said that this completely put them off, but I just found it to be a different take on what I was already visualising.

This was a nice, quick, easy to read story that I was able to digest on a car ride into the city. I liked the simplicity and the ease of access to Mercy’s story and thought that this was a great little addition to a series that I am already WAY too obsessed with.

<- Silver

Gray ->

Image source: Patricia Briggs

Tears of Laughter – The Umbilical Brothers, Speedmouse

April 26, 2016Book ReviewComedy, Fringe, Umbilical Brothersskyebjenner

I’ve watched live shows by The Umbilical Brothers time now. The first time was to see KiDSHoW (not for kids), and more recently, I got the distinct pleasure of viewing Speedmouse. Words can’t explain how hard I laughed.

Speedmouse by The Umbilical Brothers has been around for years. In fact, it was the first show of theirs that I watched on TV. On a VCR to be more specific (yes, it’s been that long)! But their latest show at The Adelaide Fringe took a well-known and beloved comedy and twisted it into a modern context.

I’ve never been a huge fan of mime or alternate theatre – I’ve always needed a little help visualising the actors’ world. It’s also much easier to engage when there are a range of objects and colour s to grab my attention. Even some comedians can be a little tedious to watch – staring at a single person for an hour can get more than a little tedious (at least for me). However, the brilliant vocalisations of Shane Dundas and David Collins bought an entire world to life for an hour and a half. That, and the changes in lighting styles throughout the show made me feel like I was in a porno, one with the dinosaurs and underwater.

The ability of the Umbilical Brothers to draw their audience in with their VERY quirky sense of humour and ability to bring a stage to life is well known. But, their ability to adapt and change their shows, to keep creating new material is what keeps the audiences coming back again and again and again. It’s certainly what keeps me coming back! Whether it’s pooping in a new Australian political comment, using the latest pop song or complaining about the latest news; Speedmouse 2.0 was a brilliant show full of laughter and tears (of laughter).

Yet another amazing experience at the theatre with The Umbilical Brothers. If you are looking for a good night out and want to laugh, and possibly pee yourself a little, then I’d recommend heading out to a show by David Collins, Shane Dundas, and of course, the very creepy Roadie. And if you can’t find one in your local area, why not head down to your local did store and watch them from the comfort of your own home?

Image source: The Sydney Morning Herald
Image source: Taken by author

The One by Kiera Cass

April 25, 2016Book ReviewDystopia, Easy Reading, Kiera Cass, Romance, The One, The Selectionskyebjenner

Title: The One
Author: Kiera Cass
Series: The Selection #3
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Dystopia, Easy reading, Romance
Pace: Fast
Format: Novel
Publisher: HarperTeen
Year: 2014
5th sentence, 74th page: “I’d like that.”

When she was chosen to compete in the Selection, America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown – or to Prince Maxon’s heart. But as the end of the competition approaches, and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose – and how hard she’ll have to fight for the future she wants.

Ever get to that point in the series when you just know that it’s the book that you’ve been waiting for – the time when the hero (or heroine) is going to triumph, win their lover or finally make it home? THIS was that book for me. After reading (and falling in love with) The Selection and The Elite, I knew that The One was when all my dreams (and America’s) were going to come true. But, Cass managed to add in some great twists and turns so that you were still held in suspense.

Every single time I was sure that the story was going to end in a nice little bow, Cass threw a spanner in the works – someone was attacked, someone died, someone said something stupid. While I was reading this, it was REALLY frustrating – why couldn’t America and Maxon just end up together, happy ending, icing on the cake? There were even moments that I was like “what are you doing to me?!?!” Why can’t it just happen? But, don’t let that fool you. Every single twist and turn, every dramatic pause and spanner in the works just made the finale of this book so much more gut wrenching, deliriously joyful and tear jerking.

Those moments when Maxon’s inability to just decide, and America’s talent for putting her foot in it that I found inherently frustrating throughout just made that final chapter so breathtakingly beautiful that (I’m not ashamed to say) I wept like a baby. Yes, Maxon frustrated the hell out of me, but that final commitment, that final moment was just so gooey goodness. The very indecision that was so prevalent throughout the book made every good moment more special – which I’m sure was Cass’ goal all along. After all, why write an entire novel that has no conflict before reaching the happy ending? Boring!!!

The epic journey to find love not only had me devouring this book in less than a day – it is also one of the most realistic love stories that I’ve read in a long time. Alright, we don’t all find princes and we’re not living in some far out dystopian reality, but I don’t think that love (or a person’s love story) is ever really simple. Every couple has had battles to get to that moment of peace. And even after that commitment, I’d be surprised to find anyone who isn’t still plagued with moments of doubt and conflict – it’s human nature and life. And it’s what makes those stolen glances and moments all the more precious. At least in my case.

<- The Favorite Review

The Heir Review ->

Image source: Wikia

The Elite by Kiera Cass

April 24, 2016Book ReviewCinderella, Dystopia, Easy Reading, Kiera Cass, Romance, The Elite, The Selectionskyebjenner

Title: The Elite
Author: Kiera Cass
Series: The Selection #2
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Dystopia, Easy reading, Romance
Pace: Fast
Format: Novel
Publisher: HarperTeen
Year: 2013
5th sentence, 74th page: I was left gasping for breath after the song, so I took a seat at one of the many tables sprinkled around the room.

America Singer is one of THE ELITE and Prince Maxon only has eyes for her.

If she wins the competition for his heart, she will leave her pre-destined life for a world of luxury. But the outcome is less than certain; the threat of rebel violence just beyond the palace walls is escalating into war and bitter rivals are ready to take her down.

And as America’s feelings for Maxon grow stronger, ex-lover Aspen waits for her in the shadows. Where do her loyalties truly lie?

The next step in The Selection series, The Elite follows the final six girls in the competition. Those that are left were the obvious choices, since they featured more predominately in the first novel. However, their journey is just amazing. Even though you’re sure that America has Maxon’s heart, that Celeste is positively evil and that Aspen is going to continue fighting for her, every single twist still pulls at your heart.

I loved both the characters of Aspen and Maxon from the beginning, and America’s inability to decide between them comes to a head in this novel. It is the classically difficult decision to make between the familiar, comfortable past and the exciting, dangerous present. As you watch Maxon and America’s relationship deepen, you feel her fear and reluctance to let Aspen go. I was curled into a tight ball the entire time I read this, I was so tense about her decision. But, no spoilers here – you need to read the book to find out who she chooses!

As with The Selection, Cass doesn’t just focus on the romantic storyline, the rebellion is alluded to and introduced in the first book, but it is in The Elite that we begin to understand more about its complexities. This subplot starts to really gain traction and adds another layer of excitement and suspense to an already brilliant storyline.

<- The Selection Review

The Guard Review ->

Image source: Goodreads

The Selection by Kiera Cass

April 23, 2016Book ReviewCinderella, Dystopia, Easy Reading, Kiera Cass, Romance, The Selectionskyebjenner

Title: The Selection
Author: Kiera Cass
Series: The Selection #1
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Dystopia, Easy reading, Romance
Pace: Fast
Format: Novel
Publisher: HarperTeen
Year: 2012
5th sentence, 74th page: “Would you like to say something, dear?”

In a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels THE SELECTION is the chance of a lifetime: to compete for gorgeous Prince Maxon’s heart. But for America Singer it means turning her back on her secret love, and leaving home for a prize she doesn’t want.

Then America meets Maxon and all her plans start to crumble. Can the life she’s always dreamed of compare to a future she never imagined?

I loved The Selection on two entirely different levels. The first was just the beautiful imagery and story of this dystopian Cinderella story. The idea that a strong-willed and tough girl somehow accidentally ends up in a bid for the Prince’s hand and heart is such a Cinderella-rags-to-riches story. Even though you’re sure that she is going to develop feelings for the prince (what kind of romance would it be otherwise?), every step of the journey from The Selection to The Elite is beautiful, intricate and makes you fall in love again and again and again. Not only with the characters, but the setting, the dystopian future and Kiera Cass herself.

The other aspect of this novel that I am entirely obsessed with is the comments that Cass makes on stereotypes of class systems with the use of the eight-tiered Caste system. This reminds us that our thoughts and judgements of others according to their position in life are not always correct. Nor should people be forced to fit a certain mould because they are born into it. I thought that Cass subtly and brilliantly commented on both the current socio-economic climate and our perceptions of it. This book not only reminded me to believe in true love, but also that everyone deserves a change – regardless of their socio-economic status.

I think that America Singer is one of my new favourite heroines. I fell in love with her in the first pages and the more I got to know her, flaws and all, the more I was able to relate to her. I loved the contrasts in her character, she’s so innocent in the pursuit of love (both of Aspen and Maxon), yet so stubborn and strong in her knowledge and experiences of the world and poverty. This characterised contrast was further emphasised in the storyline – the innocence of love between people was offset by the fear of royalty and the unknown that is so heavy and obvious within the text.

<- The Prince Review

The Elite Review ->

mage source: WordPress

Switched by Amanda Hocking

April 22, 2016Book ReviewAmanda Hocking, Changelings, Easy Reading, Fae, Paranormal Fantasy, Switched, Trylleskyebjenner

Title: Switched
Author: Amanda Hocking
Series: Trylle #1
Rating Out of 5: 3.5 (Liked this)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Fae, Paranormal fantasy
Pace: Slow
Format: Novel
Publisher: Tor
Year: 2010
5th sentence, 74th page: A wind came up, blowing back her coat a bit, and she reminded me of some kind of action star, like she should be in The Matrix.

Wendy Everly knew she was different the day her mother tried to kill her and accused her of having been switched at birth. Although certain she’s not the monster her mother claims she is – she does feel that she doesn’t quite fit in…

She’s bored and frustrated by her small town life – and then there’s the secret that she can’t tell anyone. Her mysterious ability – she can influence people’s decisions, without knowing how, or why…

When the intense and darkly handsome newcomer Finn suddenly turns up at her bedroom window one night – her world is turned upside down. He holds the Key to her past, the answers to her strange powers, and is the doorway to a place she never imagined could exist: Forening, the home of the Trylle.

Finally everything makes sense. Among the Trylle, Wendy is not just different, but special. But what marks her out as chosen for greatness in this world also places her in grave danger. With everything around her changing, Finn is the only person she can trust. But dark forces are conspiring – not only to separate them, but to see the downfall of everything that Wendy cares about.

The fate of Forening rests in Wendy’s hands, and the decisions she and Finn make could change all their lives forever…

I have to admit that I was a little worried when I started reading this. Goodreads had suggested Amanda Hocking as an author, so I obliged. And the beginning of this book felt a little bit like a teeny-bopper romance along the lines of Twilight. I love a good romance novel, but not the teeny-bopper, angsty, dramatic crap. Most of the time I think that it just makes the lead female look whiny, needy and kind of sad. Luckily for me, this novel quickly turned out not to be one of these sagas.

Don’t get me wrong, there was still a little teenage angst and she kind of made a fool of herself multiple times for a guy. But who hasn’t really? The darkness of her past and her inability to connect with others echoed a state that many of us have felt as teenagers. I also thought that it added a sobering amount of reality. Love stories are rarely easy (in my experience), and it’s the hurt, both in one’s past and present that make it such a beautiful thing.

Switched wasn’t just about romance and teenage love though, it embraced the idea of Changelings and the Fae (a not-so-mild obsession of mine). I loved the incorporation of teenage dilemmas with faery tales that have existed since modern man stood on his hind legs. The new and the old were a great combination that has made me order the second book online… now I just have to wait for it to arrive!

<- More Amanda Hocking reviews

Torn Review ->

Earth and Skye

The ramblings of a bibliophile.