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WHO’S SIDE AM I ON?
This book got me FEELIN’ over that ending. WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO NOW. I have THOUGHTS and I need resolutions in the last book or we might be seeing a book throwing scenario. I can’t trust anything in this series and I hate [read: LOVE] that. By the time I’m feeling settled in one scene and its movement I am twisted around by the next chapter trying to find my footing again. The intense action and politics are continuing on and I can’t even begin to tell you which side I actually stand on.
Rin annoyed me on and off this go around. Many many decisions were made for her and I wish that she would have listened or been more open about those in her life. It did move the story along, but it did leave me wondering what hill our main character is going to stand on. I did however, enjoy seeing Rin develop a lot of relationships (platonic, and maybe something else?!?). That was a big part of this read and I think is going to play an even bigger role in the last book.
I love the audio version and how well everything is narrated. I am easily swept away by the story and it helped pass the slower middle area quicker by listening rather than physically reading this go around. I am anxious to get my hands on book three to see how this all ends. WHO SURVIVES.
Overall audience notes:
- Adult fantasy
- Language: some strong throughout
- Trigger/Content Warnings: rape, sexual assault, attempted assault and rape, extreme gore and violence; extreme blood and physical altercations; dismemberment, loss of loved ones, war scenes, racism, genocide, colonization, substance abuse and addiction, PTSD, suicide, self-harm, suicide ideation, forced medical examinations, animal death/torture
Thank you to the authors for a copy. All opinions are my own!
WELL.
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This was unfortunately disappointing. Urban fantasy is a tough genre for me to get into, and that how it felt here too. I do think a younger audience would be more into some of the tropes/story lines than I was though.
Insta-romance abounded for these two teens. There was one cute date, and then BAM. Couldn’t be without each other. It wasn’t that Zan and Ellie didn’t have chemistry, I just wanted more of a build-up with them, a little more angst. So much was trying to happen at once that this story line fell to the side and then felt disjointed.
There’s a lot of action! Sinking City keeps you busy. The nature behind the magic system was interesting and I appreciated that it seemed to have clear definitions on what could/could not be accomplished. It always seems more ridiculous when magic doesn’t have boundaries so I’m glad they were present here. The Italian setting was nice too. It was a nice wanderlust adventure around the cities.
I liked Zan as a main character. I think he holds a lot of promise for the next book in growth and coming into his power. Ellie, on the other hand, needs to drop the damsel in distress vibes. There were many times she admitted it as well and I get annoyed when a character can’t take care of themselves (I’m cool with them learning/growing into it, but this was a continual issue).
Overall audience notes:
- YA Urban Fantasy
- Language: a little; light
- Romance: Kisses
- Violence: murder, magical attacks, physical altercations, guns
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of a loved one
WELL.
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This was unfortunately disappointing. Urban fantasy is a tough genre for me to get into, and that how it felt here too. I do think a younger audience would be more into some of the tropes/story lines than I was though.
Insta-romance abounded for these two teens. There was one cute date, and then BAM. Couldn’t be without each other. It wasn’t that Zan and Ellie didn’t have chemistry, I just wanted more of a build-up with them, a little more angst. So much was trying to happen at once that this story line fell to the side and then felt disjointed.
There’s a lot of action! Sinking City keeps you busy. The nature behind the magic system was interesting and I appreciated that it seemed to have clear definitions on what could/could not be accomplished. It always seems more ridiculous when magic doesn’t have boundaries so I’m glad they were present here. The Italian setting was nice too. It was a nice wanderlust adventure around the cities.
I liked Zan as a main character. I think he holds a lot of promise for the next book in growth and coming into his power. Ellie, on the other hand, needs to drop the damsel in distress vibes. There were many times she admitted it as well and I get annoyed when a character can’t take care of themselves (I’m cool with them learning/growing into it, but this was a continual issue).
Overall audience notes:
- YA Urban Fantasy
- Language: a little; light
- Romance: Kisses
- Violence: murder, magical attacks, physical altercations, guns
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of a loved one
3.5 stars
Thank you to Amulet Books and Netgalley for an eARC!
MOSTLY FINE.
Ahhhhhhck.
Okay. The story was good. It was. The world building with all of the different nations is well written. I mostly liked the magic system and I once again really love this found family council that Tarisai has.
This book draaaaagged. I had to look up the page number amount because I swore I was reading something 450ish pages. Nope, 336. Felt so much longer and not in a good way. The repeated plot of Tarisai finding another group of council members rang hollow. When the other lines of the story with redeeming the horrific children sacrifices were being discussed, that was where everything was strong. The pacing was just off between the two major schemes.
Random plot lines were also thrown out and others added in. All of a sudden, Sanjeet was out for 90% of the book, and a newcomer (not named because, spoilers) is kind of involved, but not really? I don’t like random toss-ups like that. I did end up liking how the second “interest” worked into the story. He played a much bigger role than I expected and helped further the plot rather than being there purely for a love triangle.
Still really into this found family and all of the type of love witnessed. It’s such a great cast and I wanted more of them like I read in Raybearer. I love that there was more Dayo, but I wanted everyone else too.
The ending wrapped up the story well. All of the underworld scenes were really short compared to what I thought was coming. I felt like at least I wasn’t left with a long list of questions. I think it gave the final pages hope for a different and new future that did make sense for the world.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy
- Language: a little
- Romance: kisses to heated make-outs
- Violence: physical altercations, battle scenes, magic attacks
- Trigger/Content Warnings: alcohol consumption, drug use, child abuse and neglect, murder
Thank you to Amulet Books and Netgalley for an eARC!
MOSTLY FINE.
Ahhhhhhck.
Okay. The story was good. It was. The world building with all of the different nations is well written. I mostly liked the magic system and I once again really love this found family council that Tarisai has.
This book draaaaagged. I had to look up the page number amount because I swore I was reading something 450ish pages. Nope, 336. Felt so much longer and not in a good way. The repeated plot of Tarisai finding another group of council members rang hollow. When the other lines of the story with redeeming the horrific children sacrifices were being discussed, that was where everything was strong. The pacing was just off between the two major schemes.
Random plot lines were also thrown out and others added in. All of a sudden, Sanjeet was out for 90% of the book, and a newcomer (not named because, spoilers) is kind of involved, but not really? I don’t like random toss-ups like that. I did end up liking how the second “interest” worked into the story. He played a much bigger role than I expected and helped further the plot rather than being there purely for a love triangle.
Still really into this found family and all of the type of love witnessed. It’s such a great cast and I wanted more of them like I read in Raybearer. I love that there was more Dayo, but I wanted everyone else too.
The ending wrapped up the story well. All of the underworld scenes were really short compared to what I thought was coming. I felt like at least I wasn’t left with a long list of questions. I think it gave the final pages hope for a different and new future that did make sense for the world.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy
- Language: a little
- Romance: kisses to heated make-outs
- Violence: physical altercations, battle scenes, magic attacks
- Trigger/Content Warnings: alcohol consumption, drug use, child abuse and neglect, murder
GREAT READ.
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What a fun fantasy series! I really enjoyed this installment.
I love the found family Morrigan has found and how she’s learning to escape people’s expectations. She’s striving to find who she is and what her magic can do in the world around her. Morrigan is such a wonderful character and this is such a fantastic series two books in.
The world building is unique and I love the idea of knacks and all the different versions people have. I’m curious how Wunder functions in the magic system and how that’ll continue to progress! The plot keeps the action rolling and all of the side characters are filled with personality.
This is a charming series fit for the middle-grade category, but definitely appeals to a broad audience. I can’t wait to continue reading these books.
Overall audience notes:
- Middle grade fantasy
- Language: none
- Violence: kidnapping, physical (nothing gory/intensely violent)
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What a fun fantasy series! I really enjoyed this installment.
I love the found family Morrigan has found and how she’s learning to escape people’s expectations. She’s striving to find who she is and what her magic can do in the world around her. Morrigan is such a wonderful character and this is such a fantastic series two books in.
The world building is unique and I love the idea of knacks and all the different versions people have. I’m curious how Wunder functions in the magic system and how that’ll continue to progress! The plot keeps the action rolling and all of the side characters are filled with personality.
This is a charming series fit for the middle-grade category, but definitely appeals to a broad audience. I can’t wait to continue reading these books.
Overall audience notes:
- Middle grade fantasy
- Language: none
- Violence: kidnapping, physical (nothing gory/intensely violent)
THE DISAPPOINTMENT I FEEL HURTS.
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My one main sentiment is that of the previous sentence. Why can’t I get a good ending to a series? Is this why I have a hard time finishing them? UGH.
I love the characters and this world and I think that’s also what made the dissatisfaction more apparent. Everyone on this cast is solid and well rounded with flaws and strengths. Wit and passion that make me love them. And I desperately needed more of that.
What I missed most was Reid and Lou, being Reid and Lou. In vague terms, both characters were dealing with separate debacles that took until page FIVE HUNDRED THIRTY FIVE to be completely and fully resolved. To say I was salty was an understatement. I wanted the banter and flirtation that was way more present in the first two novels. The main conflict doesn’t always have to come between the couple. Especially if the couple has already truly gotten together before the finale then why not LET THEM WORK TOGETHER. Gosh dang it, such a missed opportunity.
With those debacles came a very round about and torturously long route to the final battle. With many scenes that dragged on. And when the sex scenes came into play I didn’t love those either. They didn’t fit the story, and they definitely didn’t fit the YA category. A big mash up of MEH.
I was full of anguish at how all of this went down. I loved the tidbit from a past character. That was sweet and hopeful. The ending wrapped things up at least, and the epilogue was cute.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy
- Language: a little
- Romance: kisses to two brief open door scenes
- Violence: physical, magical, near drowning, fires, loss of friends, battle scenes
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My one main sentiment is that of the previous sentence. Why can’t I get a good ending to a series? Is this why I have a hard time finishing them? UGH.
I love the characters and this world and I think that’s also what made the dissatisfaction more apparent. Everyone on this cast is solid and well rounded with flaws and strengths. Wit and passion that make me love them. And I desperately needed more of that.
What I missed most was Reid and Lou, being Reid and Lou. In vague terms, both characters were dealing with separate debacles that took until page FIVE HUNDRED THIRTY FIVE to be completely and fully resolved. To say I was salty was an understatement. I wanted the banter and flirtation that was way more present in the first two novels. The main conflict doesn’t always have to come between the couple. Especially if the couple has already truly gotten together before the finale then why not LET THEM WORK TOGETHER. Gosh dang it, such a missed opportunity.
With those debacles came a very round about and torturously long route to the final battle. With many scenes that dragged on. And when the sex scenes came into play I didn’t love those either. They didn’t fit the story, and they definitely didn’t fit the YA category. A big mash up of MEH.
I was full of anguish at how all of this went down. I loved the tidbit from a past character. That was sweet and hopeful. The ending wrapped things up at least, and the epilogue was cute.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Fantasy
- Language: a little
- Romance: kisses to two brief open door scenes
- Violence: physical, magical, near drowning, fires, loss of friends, battle scenes
STRONG ROMANCE.
That would probably be my favorite part of the story, the initial romance is solid. I adored Christian (and him an audio is woooooonderful). The way he catches the feels and dotes on Violet is nothing short of adorable. Chemistry is there from the get go, with fiery banter and tender moments.
Things were riding on a strong 4 star read until the conflict came about. It was clear from the get-go what it would be, but the shakedown after left much to be desired. Communication and listening was a big issue here. And waiting as long as Violet did to even do that much frustrated me. And the secret she kept for too long as well. I just didn’t appreciate those aspects. Christian was doing a lot and I think she should have heard him out much sooner.
This is a super quick read that I would recommend in audio format too! It’s got a fast pace, plenty of swoon, and for those who love spice, PLENTY of that (for those like me who don’t love that, I did have to skip a good bit after the halfway point). I was looking for a HEA and I did get that in the end. There was a set-up for the next book too that I can’t wait to read!
Overall audience notes:
- Historical romance
- Language: some
- Romance: kisses to multiple very open door scenes
- Violence: a carriage crash resulting in body injuries
I love the change-ups in this one and the ships that I want to sail so badly!! Really hoping there's more after this. I'll probably go look up the companion novels.
WAY TOO LONG.
I finally picked this series back up (I don’t know why it took me so long, I loved The Last Magician!). This was a hefty tome to read, and was filled with a lot…and nothing…all at the same time.
My biggest complaint is the length, there was no way this needed to be 700 pages. It became very unfocused and searching after ONE stone took up the entire book. It led to off pacing, moments where the characters themselves were dragging their feet and I was wishing things would get a move on.
The writing is great though. Even with how thick it is, I didn’t start feeling that strain until late in the second half of the book. I wanted to read every word, wanted to know what was going to happen next. I think it’s also because I enjoy most of the characters. They’re endearing and frustrating, which makes them feel real. Esta probably annoyed me the most because she kept FLAT OUT REFUISNG to let Harte help her with anything. It was like she had to prove she could do anything on her own, every. dang. time. I need this character arc to bring in some ability to ask for and accept help.
There’s MANY points of view here. Some that made sense, I understood, was overall fine with. Then, there were others that I’m questioning why they were necessary? I don’t think the handful of them really added anything and probably could have been left out and the story wouldn’t be lacking.
The historical aspects of this were interesting. I haven’t read a book set in this time period and in this location. I liked the Author’s Note at the end as well that explained some more of the history, her writing choices and other books to read on the subject. I love when this is put in there for historical fiction-ish based books.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Historical Fiction / Fantasy
- Language: some
- Romance: kisses to heated make-out
- Violence: physical altercations, explosions, magical attacks, train wrecks, poisoning
- Trigger/Content Warnings: hate crime, racism, substance abuse, pain-med addiction
UNPREDICTABLE.
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I’m not a general sci-fi fan. Is Sanderson changing my mind? At least about his sci-fi books! I am really enjoying this series. I am luckily clicking with all things dystopian and sci-fi in this young adult series.
I ADORE David. Oh my goodness. I legitimately laugh out loud multiple times as I was reading. I know his inability to craft puns/similes is ridiculous, but it truly adds to his charm. He’s a brave character who has a stubborn streak. I love seeing David grow over these books and after that ending I can’t wait to see how it all comes together.
Firefight could have been in this a bit more (I mean, it is titled after her?). Really could have used more of her throughout. The new location and villains were solid additions. It added a change of pace to the storyline and spread out the entire plot. We even got some more information on Calamity itself. I love the way Sanderson drops in the information and tidbits for an epic conclusion.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult dystopia / sci-fi
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: physical, superpowers, murder, guns (not gory, but is fairly violent)
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I’m not a general sci-fi fan. Is Sanderson changing my mind? At least about his sci-fi books! I am really enjoying this series. I am luckily clicking with all things dystopian and sci-fi in this young adult series.
I ADORE David. Oh my goodness. I legitimately laugh out loud multiple times as I was reading. I know his inability to craft puns/similes is ridiculous, but it truly adds to his charm. He’s a brave character who has a stubborn streak. I love seeing David grow over these books and after that ending I can’t wait to see how it all comes together.
Firefight could have been in this a bit more (I mean, it is titled after her?). Really could have used more of her throughout. The new location and villains were solid additions. It added a change of pace to the storyline and spread out the entire plot. We even got some more information on Calamity itself. I love the way Sanderson drops in the information and tidbits for an epic conclusion.
Overall audience notes:
- Young adult dystopia / sci-fi
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: physical, superpowers, murder, guns (not gory, but is fairly violent)