Take a photo of a barcode or cover
heddas_bookgems's Reviews (490)
The Mad Ship, Part Two of The Liveship Traders, commences with a high-octane opening. Pirate king Kennit strives to win over Vivacia and form a partnership with her, while Wintrow is mysteriously jealous of their connection. Meanwhile, Althea endeavors to reclaim control of Vivacia by joining the crew of Liveship Ophelia. In Bingtown, Malta grapples with the loss of her lavish lifestyle. When all seems lost, Amber embarks on a treacherous mission to persuade the mad liveship Paragon to assist them.
In March, I concluded reading the first book in the trilogy. Although I wasn't initially captivated, the ending left me yearning for more. I promptly proceeded to the second installment, but it took some time to fully immerse myself in the story. This book was an absolute beast to consume.
It's common to be wary when the second book in a trilogy is lengthy. Typically, it's not a good sign. However, in this case, it's quite the opposite. This installment is far from being a disappointment. Instead, it offers some remarkable character and narrative developments that are guaranteed to keep you invested.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the evolution of some of its characters - they started out as the least likable and grew into the most fascinating. Furthermore, this book has some significant "what you reap, you sow" moments that will have you cheering.
The author's impressive skill lies in interweaving the mysteries into the storyline in this and other books. It's evident that Hobb put a lot of thought into the story and world-building. It's no surprise that the she has surpassed themselves with this book. Reading it only amplified my appreciation for this world, its characters, and the story.
In March, I concluded reading the first book in the trilogy. Although I wasn't initially captivated, the ending left me yearning for more. I promptly proceeded to the second installment, but it took some time to fully immerse myself in the story. This book was an absolute beast to consume.
It's common to be wary when the second book in a trilogy is lengthy. Typically, it's not a good sign. However, in this case, it's quite the opposite. This installment is far from being a disappointment. Instead, it offers some remarkable character and narrative developments that are guaranteed to keep you invested.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this book is the evolution of some of its characters - they started out as the least likable and grew into the most fascinating. Furthermore, this book has some significant "what you reap, you sow" moments that will have you cheering.
The author's impressive skill lies in interweaving the mysteries into the storyline in this and other books. It's evident that Hobb put a lot of thought into the story and world-building. It's no surprise that the she has surpassed themselves with this book. Reading it only amplified my appreciation for this world, its characters, and the story.
.jpg)
Yelena Zaltana, convicted of murder, faces a difficult decision as her execution approaches. She must choose between becoming the commander's food taster or facing certain death. While this job comes with the daily risk of being poisoned, Yelena has little choice but to accept. Refusal means certain death. However, life at court proves to be just as dangerous and shrouded in mystery.
When a friend recommends a book, it's natural to want to enjoy it. Unfortunately, this was not the case for me. Although I'm grateful for the recommendation, I have to be honest, Alana – the book was just okay.
This particular story has all the elements of fantasy that I adore. A strong female protagonist, the allure of forbidden magic, assassins, poisons, a grand castle, delectable cuisine, intensive combat training, an intriguing mystery, and a budding romance.
Although a book may contain all the necessary elements, it doesn't necessarily mean it will be a favorite. In my experience, I wasn't able to connect with the main character, who seemed a bit one-dimensional. Even though there were some interesting aspects to the book, it wasn't enough to keep me engaged for long. Perhaps it was due to the pacing or the lack of intrigue, or maybe I'm not the target audience.
I might not remember it in the future, I enjoyed reading the book. It is a great choice for those looking for a thrilling read with elements of mystery, magic, and romance. However, I must warn you that certain sections may be triggering.
When a friend recommends a book, it's natural to want to enjoy it. Unfortunately, this was not the case for me. Although I'm grateful for the recommendation, I have to be honest, Alana – the book was just okay.
This particular story has all the elements of fantasy that I adore. A strong female protagonist, the allure of forbidden magic, assassins, poisons, a grand castle, delectable cuisine, intensive combat training, an intriguing mystery, and a budding romance.
Although a book may contain all the necessary elements, it doesn't necessarily mean it will be a favorite. In my experience, I wasn't able to connect with the main character, who seemed a bit one-dimensional. Even though there were some interesting aspects to the book, it wasn't enough to keep me engaged for long. Perhaps it was due to the pacing or the lack of intrigue, or maybe I'm not the target audience.
I might not remember it in the future, I enjoyed reading the book. It is a great choice for those looking for a thrilling read with elements of mystery, magic, and romance. However, I must warn you that certain sections may be triggering.
Adalyn Grace, while working at a live theatre and watching a performance of Secret Garden, came up with the idea for her latest novel, Belladonna.
The story follows Signa Farrow, a young, orphaned heiress who has been raised by a series of guardians. All of these guardians had two things in common: they were all seeking her fortune, and they all met an untimely end. When Signa is invited to live with her only remaining relatives, the wealthy Hawthorns of Thorn Grove, she soon discovers that things are not as they seem. The lord is mourning his deceased wife, the son is struggling to keep the company afloat, and the daughter is gravely ill. When the ghost of Lady Hawthorn reveals that she was murdered, Signa must solve the mystery to prevent further tragedy.
This eerie and gothic novel features ghosts, poisonous plants, sweeping gowns, tea parties, and the character of Death himself. It has been a while since I have enjoyed a young adult book, but Belladonna reignited my love for the genre.
Although the novel begins as a murder mystery, it eventually takes a romantic turn. The mystery aspect of the story, however, kept me engaged throughout. While the plot may not be the most surprising of all time, it is still a thrilling and dangerous quest to solve.
And then there is Death, a wonderful and illustrious character who brings philosophical monologues about the meaning of life and how death is a part of it. The budding romance between two people who deal with death on a daily basis is beautifully explored.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed this dark and dangerous novel that blends Bridgerton with Crimson Peak. I am eagerly looking forward to the sequel.
The story follows Signa Farrow, a young, orphaned heiress who has been raised by a series of guardians. All of these guardians had two things in common: they were all seeking her fortune, and they all met an untimely end. When Signa is invited to live with her only remaining relatives, the wealthy Hawthorns of Thorn Grove, she soon discovers that things are not as they seem. The lord is mourning his deceased wife, the son is struggling to keep the company afloat, and the daughter is gravely ill. When the ghost of Lady Hawthorn reveals that she was murdered, Signa must solve the mystery to prevent further tragedy.
This eerie and gothic novel features ghosts, poisonous plants, sweeping gowns, tea parties, and the character of Death himself. It has been a while since I have enjoyed a young adult book, but Belladonna reignited my love for the genre.
Although the novel begins as a murder mystery, it eventually takes a romantic turn. The mystery aspect of the story, however, kept me engaged throughout. While the plot may not be the most surprising of all time, it is still a thrilling and dangerous quest to solve.
And then there is Death, a wonderful and illustrious character who brings philosophical monologues about the meaning of life and how death is a part of it. The budding romance between two people who deal with death on a daily basis is beautifully explored.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed this dark and dangerous novel that blends Bridgerton with Crimson Peak. I am eagerly looking forward to the sequel.
The Blade Itself, the first book in The First Law series, is an intriguing epic fantasy novel that delves into politics, war, and the distinction between heroes and villains from multiple points of view. The book follows the lives of three individuals: torturer Glotka, nobleman Captain Jezal, and notorious barbarian Logen Ninefingers, whose lives unexpectedly interconnect.
Despite being character-focused, the book is gripping, featuring amazing dialogue that is both funny and gruesome while tackling sensitive mental health topics. The characters are so realistic that you can't help but feel a connection to them. Logen's character was particularly captivating, while Jezabel's shallowness was irritating, and Glotka's cynicism was amusing.
Although the book didn't have a lot of plot, this did not detract from its appeal. The story is set in an early medieval kind of setting, and it features a mysterious magical system, which adds to its intrigue. It is no surprise that this book has been gaining renewed popularity, and it is entirely justified. It has been one of my favorite reads of the year.
Despite being character-focused, the book is gripping, featuring amazing dialogue that is both funny and gruesome while tackling sensitive mental health topics. The characters are so realistic that you can't help but feel a connection to them. Logen's character was particularly captivating, while Jezabel's shallowness was irritating, and Glotka's cynicism was amusing.
Although the book didn't have a lot of plot, this did not detract from its appeal. The story is set in an early medieval kind of setting, and it features a mysterious magical system, which adds to its intrigue. It is no surprise that this book has been gaining renewed popularity, and it is entirely justified. It has been one of my favorite reads of the year.
The Shire is bustling with excitement as Bilbo celebrates his 111th birthday. He has a grand surprise in store - his last adventure, and he intends to leave everything, including the ring he found with the creature Gollem, to his cousin Frodo. However, Gandalf the Grey is suspicious of the ring and soon discovers it to be the one ring of the Dark Lord. Frodo must escape the Shire with the ring to keep it from falling into the hands of Sauron.
I read this book for the first time twenty years ago, and it was a life-changing experience. It was my first epic fantasy read, and I was immediately hooked. Reading it again, I felt the same wonder and awe, but on a deeper level. The journey was magical, with poems, songs, and new characters that I had forgotten about, and beloved characters that I cherished. Tolkien's writing style was impeccable, and the way he crafted the characters and world was simply breathtaking.
I understand that some might find the book a bit slow-paced, especially in the prologue and the Council of Elrond, but the rest of the book, with its wonderful and famous lines, was an absolute delight. It remains one of my all-time favorite books.
If you're hesitant to give it a try, I highly recommend the audiobook narrated by Andy Serkis. He makes even the slow parts bearable and brings the characters to life in a way that is truly captivating.
I read this book for the first time twenty years ago, and it was a life-changing experience. It was my first epic fantasy read, and I was immediately hooked. Reading it again, I felt the same wonder and awe, but on a deeper level. The journey was magical, with poems, songs, and new characters that I had forgotten about, and beloved characters that I cherished. Tolkien's writing style was impeccable, and the way he crafted the characters and world was simply breathtaking.
I understand that some might find the book a bit slow-paced, especially in the prologue and the Council of Elrond, but the rest of the book, with its wonderful and famous lines, was an absolute delight. It remains one of my all-time favorite books.
If you're hesitant to give it a try, I highly recommend the audiobook narrated by Andy Serkis. He makes even the slow parts bearable and brings the characters to life in a way that is truly captivating.
Briseis lives with her mothers in Brooklyn and possesses a unique gift – plants seem to come back to life and flourish just by her looking at them. The family struggles with finances until Bri inherits an estate from an aunt. They decide to leave Brooklyn and try their hand at rural living. Perhaps this time, Bri can let her powers bloom and form friendships along the way.
This book was an unexpected delight. It had all the makings of a captivating read: intriguing magic, mysterious lore inspired by Greek mythology, and strong representation with black girl magic and queer moms. Speaking of those moms, they were hilarious and stole the show. I found myself enjoying their characters more than even the protagonist, though that might be due to my not being the target audience.
While it may not have been the greatest read, it was still entertaining and filled with lush descriptions of (poisonous) plants. The writing style may have had some flaws, and not all the characters were as developed as others. Additionally, the ending felt rushed with some unnecessary additions, and the cliffhanger at the end was not my favorite. Nonetheless, I would still recommend this book.
This book was an unexpected delight. It had all the makings of a captivating read: intriguing magic, mysterious lore inspired by Greek mythology, and strong representation with black girl magic and queer moms. Speaking of those moms, they were hilarious and stole the show. I found myself enjoying their characters more than even the protagonist, though that might be due to my not being the target audience.
While it may not have been the greatest read, it was still entertaining and filled with lush descriptions of (poisonous) plants. The writing style may have had some flaws, and not all the characters were as developed as others. Additionally, the ending felt rushed with some unnecessary additions, and the cliffhanger at the end was not my favorite. Nonetheless, I would still recommend this book.
