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obscurepages's Reviews (410)
Titan's Curse is another amazing journey and it's only getting us closer to the big prophecy, the gods and the titans, the looming final battle, everything.
We meet several new characters and it was so fun going on a journey with these new people here in this third book! Zoe Nightshade (bless her), Bianca di Angelo (oh, Bianca), Nico di Angelo (a.k.a. one of my favorite characters from the PJO universe), and of course Thalia! It was so exciting to finally see Thalia in action and get to know her, seeing as in the two previous books she was just this character in a backstory. But she's here in Titan's Curse and she definitely left a mark on me.
Also, Percy and Thalia's dynamic was just so good. I remember thinking about something Annabeth had said in the Sea of Monsters...
Thalia and Percy were both powerful, dangerous, loyal, insecure, and somehow, even just for a little bit, waiting for a chance to prove themselves to their fathers. I wish there were more scenes with them, actually. I would have loved to see them actually team up and just obliterate anyone who was on their way. They'd be the perfect duo!
Of course, what really amazes me the most is Riordan's storytelling—the way he weaved the plot and tied it all up perfectly at the end. Even if I've already read Titan's Curse, I still got shocked, I still held my breath, I still anticipated for the next things to come. This, for me, is just awesome.
There was also a part near the end where Athena tells Percy what his fatal flaw is, and wow. I just loved it so much! She nailed it! Percy's fatal flaw can truly be a good thing or a bad thing, and I'm reminded just how much I love his character.
Such a great book! So excited for the next one!
(This book review is a part of Enthralled Bookworm's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Series Review.)
We meet several new characters and it was so fun going on a journey with these new people here in this third book! Zoe Nightshade (bless her), Bianca di Angelo (oh, Bianca), Nico di Angelo (a.k.a. one of my favorite characters from the PJO universe), and of course Thalia! It was so exciting to finally see Thalia in action and get to know her, seeing as in the two previous books she was just this character in a backstory. But she's here in Titan's Curse and she definitely left a mark on me.
Also, Percy and Thalia's dynamic was just so good. I remember thinking about something Annabeth had said in the Sea of Monsters...
"Percy, you know who you remind me the most? Thalia. You guys are so much alike it's scary. I mean, either you would've been best friends or you would've strangled each other."
Thalia and Percy were both powerful, dangerous, loyal, insecure, and somehow, even just for a little bit, waiting for a chance to prove themselves to their fathers. I wish there were more scenes with them, actually. I would have loved to see them actually team up and just obliterate anyone who was on their way. They'd be the perfect duo!
Of course, what really amazes me the most is Riordan's storytelling—the way he weaved the plot and tied it all up perfectly at the end. Even if I've already read Titan's Curse, I still got shocked, I still held my breath, I still anticipated for the next things to come. This, for me, is just awesome.
There was also a part near the end where Athena tells Percy what his fatal flaw is, and wow. I just loved it so much! She nailed it! Percy's fatal flaw can truly be a good thing or a bad thing, and I'm reminded just how much I love his character.
Such a great book! So excited for the next one!
(This book review is a part of Enthralled Bookworm's Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Series Review.)
I received an e-arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much Page Street Publishing!
Though I had trouble with the first few parts of the book, Beyond the Shadowed Earth flaunted exquisite story elements such as the writing style, the plot, and the rich world-building. At the end of it, I can say that I enjoyed reading the book!
Brilliant writing style
I adored the writing style of the author. It was poetic, sometimes haunting, and it was definitely atmospheric. The author also did a great job with the imagery, whether that be a description of the various places and cities or the clothing worn by the characters. It was great!
Okay characters
I struggled a lot with the first few parts of this book, mainly because of the main character. I had trouble liking Eda, connecting with her or relating to her. She was selfish, cruel, and probably conceited as well. I understand that she’s a “villainous” lead and I expected as much, but 30% of the time I was just completely annoyed by her attitude and her thinking that I couldn’t read continuously. I didn’t lose hope immediately though. I hoped for some sort of character development and in a way, there was. Her character went through a journey filled with vengeance, betrayals, lies, sacrifices, and friendship. Do I think her character has been redeemed? Not entirely. But I did love that she was finally on the right path at the end of the book.
As for the minor characters, Ileem was an interesting addition to the mix. Rescarin was annoying, but I loved his part as a “villain”. Domin was an interesting kind of character, and I loved the change he went through. I adored Morin and Tainir as well, and what they symbolize what’s next for Eda. And Liah, I wanted to know more about her, I was disappointed that I didn’t get any more details about her and her story.
Intricate plot
I also came to love the plot of this book—it wasn’t the usual “I’m going to save my people” kind of plot, instead it was “I’m looking for revenge” and I found that refreshing. I also loved how it was unpredictable at times. For example, I already expected a few of the plot twists, but there were several that really shocked me and I wanted to scream just a little!
Great world-building
The world-building of Beyond the Shadowed Earth is definitely my favorite part. It was rich and expansive, and I loved the idea of the different “Circles”. And although this is a companion level, I had no trouble absorbing all details about the fictional world it was set in. All the little tales and myths plus the brilliant imagery were just enough to get me falling for the world-building.
I also liked the insertion of religion into the world-building and the story itself! I’m gonna be honest and say that I’m not the most religious person out there, but I loved the way they talked about the gods and faith here. (I definitely have a couple of lines highlighted!)
Overall, this was a pretty decent read. 3.5 stars for me! I know others will definitely love this kind of book!
(This book review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm.)
Though I had trouble with the first few parts of the book, Beyond the Shadowed Earth flaunted exquisite story elements such as the writing style, the plot, and the rich world-building. At the end of it, I can say that I enjoyed reading the book!
Brilliant writing style
I adored the writing style of the author. It was poetic, sometimes haunting, and it was definitely atmospheric. The author also did a great job with the imagery, whether that be a description of the various places and cities or the clothing worn by the characters. It was great!
Okay characters
I struggled a lot with the first few parts of this book, mainly because of the main character. I had trouble liking Eda, connecting with her or relating to her. She was selfish, cruel, and probably conceited as well. I understand that she’s a “villainous” lead and I expected as much, but 30% of the time I was just completely annoyed by her attitude and her thinking that I couldn’t read continuously. I didn’t lose hope immediately though. I hoped for some sort of character development and in a way, there was. Her character went through a journey filled with vengeance, betrayals, lies, sacrifices, and friendship. Do I think her character has been redeemed? Not entirely. But I did love that she was finally on the right path at the end of the book.
As for the minor characters, Ileem was an interesting addition to the mix. Rescarin was annoying, but I loved his part as a “villain”. Domin was an interesting kind of character, and I loved the change he went through. I adored Morin and Tainir as well, and what they symbolize what’s next for Eda. And Liah, I wanted to know more about her, I was disappointed that I didn’t get any more details about her and her story.
Intricate plot
I also came to love the plot of this book—it wasn’t the usual “I’m going to save my people” kind of plot, instead it was “I’m looking for revenge” and I found that refreshing. I also loved how it was unpredictable at times. For example, I already expected a few of the plot twists, but there were several that really shocked me and I wanted to scream just a little!
Great world-building
The world-building of Beyond the Shadowed Earth is definitely my favorite part. It was rich and expansive, and I loved the idea of the different “Circles”. And although this is a companion level, I had no trouble absorbing all details about the fictional world it was set in. All the little tales and myths plus the brilliant imagery were just enough to get me falling for the world-building.
I also liked the insertion of religion into the world-building and the story itself! I’m gonna be honest and say that I’m not the most religious person out there, but I loved the way they talked about the gods and faith here. (I definitely have a couple of lines highlighted!)
Overall, this was a pretty decent read. 3.5 stars for me! I know others will definitely love this kind of book!
(This book review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm.)
Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez is described as "A lush tapestry of magic, romance, and revolución, drawing inspiration from Bolivian politics and history." and to be honest, I have never come across such a perfect and accurate synopsis/description of a book. Everything is lush and gripping—from the writing style, to the characters, the immersive plot, and the incredible world-building. I absolutely loved it!
Great writing style
The writing style was great. I loved how the author narrated to the story from the littlest of details to the grander perspective. As a reader, I was shown a rich culture, a complex history of land and people, a harmful game of war and politics, a slow-burn romance, the process of learning to overcome judgment, and more. It was so good and I was hooked the moment I read the first page.
Remarkable characters
I loved the characters in this book! Ximena is a strong-willed character full of hope and heart, she's also intelligent and brave. I loved reading the story through her perspective. I also found her very interesting, especially her struggle to be her true self. She's a decoy, a stand-in, and as a result, she needs to act like the Condesa, think like the Condesa, not herself. I have to say, it was incredibly satisfying to see her finally show her true self.
Rumi is a charmer. He seems aloof at first, but we get to see more of him and know more of his agenda, is desires, and his loyalty as the story progresses.
The minor characters are memorable as well! There's Juan Carlos, Tamaya, El Lobo, Catalina, Suyana, the priest, and even the woolly animals! For me, they helped build the story and it really wouldn't be the same without them.
Immersive plot
Here's what I really like about the plot of Woven in Moonlight: it's entertaining, it's compelling, and best of all, it's cohesive—everything makes sense and the flow of the story was just smooth and well-written. There were some plot twists I didn't see (but loved), and there were some that were just obvious (but I still loved!).
I also love how the story provokes an inner battle in choosing between right or wrong and knowing the different shades of morality when it comes to war and politics.
As for the romance, I loved it! It was not rushed, which is something I really appreciate when it comes to romantic pairings in books. And although the romance affected the plot, it's not the main part of the story. It didn't steal the show, nor did it become something that will badly impact the characters or the story.
Incredible world-building
The world-building in Woven in Moonlight is nothing but incredible. From the food, to the language, to the culture, to the politics and history, the author really managed to show the readers the bad, the good, and the beautiful sides of a Bolivian-inspired world.
This book is one of a kind, indeed. Also, that cover is gorgeous! Did you know that the author herself designed it?! Anyways, 5 stars to this book!
(This book review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm as part of the Woven in Moonlight Blog Tour hosted by The Royal Polar Bear Reads.)
Great writing style
The writing style was great. I loved how the author narrated to the story from the littlest of details to the grander perspective. As a reader, I was shown a rich culture, a complex history of land and people, a harmful game of war and politics, a slow-burn romance, the process of learning to overcome judgment, and more. It was so good and I was hooked the moment I read the first page.
Remarkable characters
I loved the characters in this book! Ximena is a strong-willed character full of hope and heart, she's also intelligent and brave. I loved reading the story through her perspective. I also found her very interesting, especially her struggle to be her true self. She's a decoy, a stand-in, and as a result, she needs to act like the Condesa, think like the Condesa, not herself. I have to say, it was incredibly satisfying to see her finally show her true self.
Rumi is a charmer. He seems aloof at first, but we get to see more of him and know more of his agenda, is desires, and his loyalty as the story progresses.
The minor characters are memorable as well! There's Juan Carlos, Tamaya, El Lobo, Catalina, Suyana, the priest, and even the woolly animals! For me, they helped build the story and it really wouldn't be the same without them.
Immersive plot
Here's what I really like about the plot of Woven in Moonlight: it's entertaining, it's compelling, and best of all, it's cohesive—everything makes sense and the flow of the story was just smooth and well-written. There were some plot twists I didn't see (but loved), and there were some that were just obvious (but I still loved!).
I also love how the story provokes an inner battle in choosing between right or wrong and knowing the different shades of morality when it comes to war and politics.
As for the romance, I loved it! It was not rushed, which is something I really appreciate when it comes to romantic pairings in books. And although the romance affected the plot, it's not the main part of the story. It didn't steal the show, nor did it become something that will badly impact the characters or the story.
Incredible world-building
The world-building in Woven in Moonlight is nothing but incredible. From the food, to the language, to the culture, to the politics and history, the author really managed to show the readers the bad, the good, and the beautiful sides of a Bolivian-inspired world.
This book is one of a kind, indeed. Also, that cover is gorgeous! Did you know that the author herself designed it?! Anyways, 5 stars to this book!
(This book review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm as part of the Woven in Moonlight Blog Tour hosted by The Royal Polar Bear Reads.)
The Never Tilting World is a story full of adventure, romance, secrets, and dark magic. It took me on quite a journey and I want more!
The Never Tilting World has four perspectives, four characters taking turns in telling the story. This can be confusing at times, but I loved it. It was effective for me because as a reader, I kept on guessing, I kept on wondering, and I kept on turning the pages in search of the answers.
I also loved how the story explored and featured a couple of significant things: what it means to be powerful and the danger that comes with it, dealing and coping with trauma, learning to overcome prejudice and biases, a young woman defying gender norms in terms her roles and responsibilities, overcoming an abusive mentor/colleague, various environmental concerns, and more.
I also have to commend the author for taking the time to build the character arcs of the characters in this book, especially Odessa! Her perspective was chilling and brilliant, and I felt that I was really inside her head. I adored the other characters as well, and most of all Arjun! The romance was an exciting part of the story as well!
The plot was really intriguing. It can get confusing sometimes, but I believe it's exactly the intention of the author. The characters didn't know the truth and were searching for answers, and so was I. I was with them with every struggle, every confusion, and every mystery.
The world-building. Gosh, the world-building is amazing! From the history and the mythology, to the intricate magic-system that relied on the environment, to the demons and the creatures that the characters encountered on their journeys, they all made the fictional world of Aeon so brilliant! Also, the very thought of a world that doesn't spin, where one half is stuck in a scorching day and the other is stuck in the freezing night, is enough to suck me into the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the sequel! (That ending was a cliffhanger! AAAHHHHH)
(This review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm.)
The Never Tilting World has four perspectives, four characters taking turns in telling the story. This can be confusing at times, but I loved it. It was effective for me because as a reader, I kept on guessing, I kept on wondering, and I kept on turning the pages in search of the answers.
I also loved how the story explored and featured a couple of significant things: what it means to be powerful and the danger that comes with it, dealing and coping with trauma, learning to overcome prejudice and biases, a young woman defying gender norms in terms her roles and responsibilities, overcoming an abusive mentor/colleague, various environmental concerns, and more.
I also have to commend the author for taking the time to build the character arcs of the characters in this book, especially Odessa! Her perspective was chilling and brilliant, and I felt that I was really inside her head. I adored the other characters as well, and most of all Arjun! The romance was an exciting part of the story as well!
The plot was really intriguing. It can get confusing sometimes, but I believe it's exactly the intention of the author. The characters didn't know the truth and were searching for answers, and so was I. I was with them with every struggle, every confusion, and every mystery.
The world-building. Gosh, the world-building is amazing! From the history and the mythology, to the intricate magic-system that relied on the environment, to the demons and the creatures that the characters encountered on their journeys, they all made the fictional world of Aeon so brilliant! Also, the very thought of a world that doesn't spin, where one half is stuck in a scorching day and the other is stuck in the freezing night, is enough to suck me into the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I cannot wait for the sequel! (That ending was a cliffhanger! AAAHHHHH)
(This review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm.)
Quick thoughts: This was entertaining! I wasn't completely blown away, but it's definitely a good read (especially for those who love anime!).
(Full review will be posted on Enthralled Bookworm as part of the Seven Deadly Shadows Blog Tour by The Fantastic Flying Book Club.)
(Full review will be posted on Enthralled Bookworm as part of the Seven Deadly Shadows Blog Tour by The Fantastic Flying Book Club.)
I received an e-arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was tempted to give this only one star, but I did like the way this book (briefly) talked about the fluidity of sexuality. Other than that, there was nothing else in this book that stood out for me.
The story just felt unoriginal and cliche. I feel like I've read a lot of stories like this already. The characters are a bit interesting, but they're uninspiring. They had the potential to be awesome characters for me, characters that will affect me and move me. Sad to say that didn't happen. Also, Jordan bothered me quite a few times when he kept implying/saying that he'll make Elliot realize he's gay. Uhm?? Maybe let the guy come to terms with it himself? It seemed so off and pushy. Oh and, at the start of the story, Elliot was having some inner problems about his future/college plans and his family. I would have loved to see that get resolved, but it was like Eli forgot about those the minute the love story presented itself in the story. The minor character Holiday was pretty awesome, though, but that was it. At the end, I was only left unsatisfied.
CW: Bullying, homophobia
I was tempted to give this only one star, but I did like the way this book (briefly) talked about the fluidity of sexuality. Other than that, there was nothing else in this book that stood out for me.
The story just felt unoriginal and cliche. I feel like I've read a lot of stories like this already. The characters are a bit interesting, but they're uninspiring. They had the potential to be awesome characters for me, characters that will affect me and move me. Sad to say that didn't happen. Also, Jordan bothered me quite a few times when he kept implying/saying that he'll make Elliot realize he's gay. Uhm?? Maybe let the guy come to terms with it himself? It seemed so off and pushy. Oh and, at the start of the story, Elliot was having some inner problems about his future/college plans and his family. I would have loved to see that get resolved, but it was like Eli forgot about those the minute the love story presented itself in the story. The minor character Holiday was pretty awesome, though, but that was it. At the end, I was only left unsatisfied.
CW: Bullying, homophobia
Wicked As You Wish is one of my most anticipated releases this 2020! With an exciting premise and the promise of vibrant Filipino culture, I was more than ready to dive into this book! Fortunately, I received an ARC from the December 2019 Fairyloot box and I had the chance to read it before the official release.
Wicked As You Wish is an exciting and adventurous book perfect for fans of classic fairy tales and those who hunger for Filipino representation!
My thoughts on Wicked As You Wish
Wicked As You Wish was adventurous and action-packed indeed! The storytelling takes the reader to different events and different places so easily. The writing style and tone was humorous, but also ominous, I can't help but wonder what lies ahead.
The characters were all interesting, but I feel like I liked them more when they were separated, when they could shine individually. A great part of the book was about Alex, Tala, and the Order of the Bandersnatch travelling together. That was nice and all but I really liked it when they got separated even just for a short amount of time. Because of that, I had the chance to know more about each of the characters, and get a feel of their backstory and their personality. Also, I applaud the author for giving us such complex characters (I'm not going to drop any names in case it's a bit of a spoiler). But know that there are some pretty fascinating characters that will shock you.
The world-building and the magic system in Wicked As You Wish is rich and intricate. There's Avalon, a country brimming with magic, and there's also the fact that fairy tales here are a part of history. It's exciting and unique and it's particularly fun seeing alternative sort-of retellings of the various fairy tales. The downside here is, it can get confusing at times. There's a lot of layers and principles regarding the magic system and one should really pay close attention since it has a lot to do with the plot.
The plot seemed simple at first, but it was actually not an easy journey. I loved how there were a couple of plot twists that I didn't see coming, and there were also a few that I already thought of. The author also made the plot more mysterious and ominous with the addition of prophecies and premonitions, and I can't wait to see these unravel. Also, I love how the author inserted certain significant issues into the story—racism, prejudice against refugees, abuse, discrimination against sexuality. They did this, too, in their other book The Never Tilting World and I'm definitely a fan. Also, that cliffhanger at the end wrecked me!
Best thing for me is the Filipino culture that's so vibrant and present in the book. As a Filipino myself, it was so wonderful to see our culture in these pages. I loved seeing all the Filipino food (beef kaldereta is the best y'all), Filipino profanities ("tangina", which is sort of the Filipino version of "son of a bitch" gets me every time), the family dynamics (you'll be surprised to know how chaotic and fun Filipino family gatherings could be), brief mentions of the Philippine history and so much more. I connected to this book on a spiritual level all because of this (and I may or may not have shed a few tears because of it).
4 stars for this one! I can't wait for the sequel (please, that cliffhanger is hurting me)!
(This review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm.)
Wicked As You Wish is an exciting and adventurous book perfect for fans of classic fairy tales and those who hunger for Filipino representation!
My thoughts on Wicked As You Wish
Wicked As You Wish was adventurous and action-packed indeed! The storytelling takes the reader to different events and different places so easily. The writing style and tone was humorous, but also ominous, I can't help but wonder what lies ahead.
The characters were all interesting, but I feel like I liked them more when they were separated, when they could shine individually. A great part of the book was about Alex, Tala, and the Order of the Bandersnatch travelling together. That was nice and all but I really liked it when they got separated even just for a short amount of time. Because of that, I had the chance to know more about each of the characters, and get a feel of their backstory and their personality. Also, I applaud the author for giving us such complex characters (I'm not going to drop any names in case it's a bit of a spoiler). But know that there are some pretty fascinating characters that will shock you.
The world-building and the magic system in Wicked As You Wish is rich and intricate. There's Avalon, a country brimming with magic, and there's also the fact that fairy tales here are a part of history. It's exciting and unique and it's particularly fun seeing alternative sort-of retellings of the various fairy tales. The downside here is, it can get confusing at times. There's a lot of layers and principles regarding the magic system and one should really pay close attention since it has a lot to do with the plot.
The plot seemed simple at first, but it was actually not an easy journey. I loved how there were a couple of plot twists that I didn't see coming, and there were also a few that I already thought of. The author also made the plot more mysterious and ominous with the addition of prophecies and premonitions, and I can't wait to see these unravel. Also, I love how the author inserted certain significant issues into the story—racism, prejudice against refugees, abuse, discrimination against sexuality. They did this, too, in their other book The Never Tilting World and I'm definitely a fan. Also, that cliffhanger at the end wrecked me!
Best thing for me is the Filipino culture that's so vibrant and present in the book. As a Filipino myself, it was so wonderful to see our culture in these pages. I loved seeing all the Filipino food (beef kaldereta is the best y'all), Filipino profanities ("tangina", which is sort of the Filipino version of "son of a bitch" gets me every time), the family dynamics (you'll be surprised to know how chaotic and fun Filipino family gatherings could be), brief mentions of the Philippine history and so much more. I connected to this book on a spiritual level all because of this (and I may or may not have shed a few tears because of it).
4 stars for this one! I can't wait for the sequel (please, that cliffhanger is hurting me)!
(This review was first published on Enthralled Bookworm.)