A Charming and Original YA Fantasy
921536
I don't read many YA fantasy books, but this one is worth seeking out. It's a charming and original story with a gentle touch. Eason has created a fully realized fantasy place, time and people. The mythology and rituals of the displaced Nanchuti are particularly impressive. The sense of visiting a specific time and place is vivid. The pace is relaxed and old-fashioned. She lets the story unfold, rather than pushing for action, action, action. This makes the climatic drama more impressive.

I particularly enjoyed the realistic adult woman characters as seen through the eyes of the young girl. Katy's admiration of Sarah (the visiting teacher/example of a woman from outside the limited world along the river), her devotion to Oleana (the traditional doctor) and her fear and grudging respect for Mama Hank (a poker playing tough cookie), are clearly drawn.

There are a few typos and some minor coding issues, but I urge readers to ride through them. Life on the river Talum is too compelling to let anything get in your way.

Heron's Path is an exceptional read with an admirable young heroine at its center.
4489978
Great world-building, wonderful characters (and even the supporting characters are distinct and not flat archetypes plopped in to further plot points or support the heroine), does take a bit for you to figure out the overall plot line, but this is a truly unique spin on Cinderella.  I've read "Scarlet" as well, and that's also an original and creative take on Little Red Riding Hood.  I look forward to seeing how these worlds and fairy tales continue to collide.
3288289
Oracle (The Sunken Earth is #1) is a fun YA Fantasy book by promising new author C.W. Triself. It is set in more or less modern times, in the Florida keys.  Our hero/protagonist is young (just entering High School) Ret Cooper, who appeared in a mysterious manner, and has unusual looks and (as the book develops) odd powers. He reminds me a bit of Kyle XY, and the Percy Jackson series.

What's fun & different here is that the kids are mostly the level headed serious types, while the adults are mostly weird, secretive and eccentric.  Admiral "Ben Coy", the school Principal, the Admirals valet (who is a Igor type) and so forth. This is fun and refreshing although since the author is new, perhaps it is taken a tad too far.  C.W also needs to work on pacing a little.

But what needs no improvement at all is the amazing imagination shown here. Not to mention the very well done characterization.  The idea of there being SIX "elements" is also intriguing and interesting.

I am sure C.W. (who is a little mysterious too) will have a great writing future ahead.
2444712
The Second Guard is a solidly written late middle grade alternate universe fantasy drawing upon both Spanish and pre-columbian cultures. The mixture creates a very unique and striking world into which we have politics, betrayal, and the strength of friendships. The characters are earnest and the author spent considerable effort to create a very vivid and well-drawn world (read: it's logical and coherent).

Story: In the City of Tequende, their peace in a continent fraught with continual war is earned through mandatory servitude of the second child of every family. Tali is on her way to join the army on her 15th birthday. Along the way, she befriends two boys also traveling to the capitol for their service. The three, though from different faiths and cultures, will soon become embroiled in the politics of Tequende as betrayals and scheming endanger both their families and their own lives.

The world building is quite distinct in The Second Guard. Using continental politics and setting the story in a pseudo-Spain - but then culturally overlaying the nature-mysticism of pre-columbian America makes for a fascinating mix. The religions of our three main characters dictate a lot of their perspective - from the studious moon sect, to the outgoing sunfolk and the grounded workforce of the lower caste in the Earth worshippers. As well, we have a Moorish transplant, a gypsy, and a nobleman. Each has talents and advantages that will help our main characters navigate Tequende and stay alive.

The book is very straightforward and info-dumps about the densely plotted world are limited to a few brief paragraphs introducing each chapter. They can be skipped but I felt they added quite a bit to the story. The book is a deceptively easy read - there's a lot packed into each chapter but author Vaughn has deftly woven action around the dialogue to keep young and older readers invested.

If I had one quibble, it would be that everyone is drearily earnest and comic relief was hard to find. Tali and her friends are quite serious nearly all the time and the book really could have used some off beat characters to lighten the tone (e.g., a Hagrid to the Harry Potter). There is a quirky professor but he's more a Dumbledore than a Hagrid.

The strength of this book is a very logical but fascinating world that for once, eschews the over-trodden English medieval fantasy trope. It was a pleasure to delve into this world and discover the twists at the end.

Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
203371
I bought this book awhile ago and stumbled upon it on my kindle when I was looking for something to read. I was really impressed by the author's world building. His take on mythology and fairy tales is unique. It was a refreshing YA fantasy that didn't wallow in romances nor did it make me feel that it was only half written and would be 7 books long for no reason. I will definitely look out for more novels from this author.
337930
Rebecca Hahn slips into the YA masses with a powerfully written debut about a girl who suddenly finds herself amidst countless responsibilities and must embrace her destiny.

In one word, A CREATURE OF MOONLIGHT can be described as magical. But its more than that.

A CREATURE OF MOONLIGHT is the perfect treat for a rainy day, when youve got time to savor every word. The prose is lyrical and gorgeous and the story isn't your typical one. Theres very little romance, for one. And the story, despite being a fantasy, revolves very closely around Marni, our protagonist, and focuses less on a plot involving outside elements. Hahns debut is pure fantasy, but pulls real elements to the surface  responsibilities, decisions, and the harsh insecurities of growing up.

Plot aside, I found A CREATURE OF MOONLIGHT eerily compelling. The magic bordered on the dark and mysterious and the tale was just so different, that I had to keep flipping the pages because I had no idea what to expect next. Dragons, imps, birds with human faces, vengeances that can be knittedthis wonderful, richly-imagined book has it all.

Our protagonist, Marni is a strong girl, with strong words that she isn't afraid to use. The book is narrated by her, and the writing reflects her village-upbringing dialect. But Marnis a princess, serving a sentence of growing flowers in a hut isolated in a village. Her crime? Being the supposed dragons daughter.

The writing is what makes this book. It was eerie, compelling, and drew a haze around the words, giving everything a dream-like feel. Dreamy and magical and so well-done. The story lingers long after, which is always a sign of a good book!

Its difficult to believe A CREATURE OF MOONLIGHT is Hahns debut. The prose was utterly beautiful, meriting a place beside Laini Taylor in my ledger. The storyline itself was a beautiful one, and I do hope it continues with a sequel. All in all, A CREATURE OF MOONLIGHT is a must read for fans of YA, fantasy, and most of all, dragons!
4164418
3.5 Stars

'Wonder Light: Unicorns of the Mist' is a fun Middle Grade fantasy that follows our young heroine, Twig, as she is sent away to a home for troubled girls on a supposedly haunted island pony ranch. While there, Twig is woken from a dream with the distinct impression that someone needs her help. Following the strange sounds, Twig finds a baby unicorn alone in the forest. The island has exposed it's secret to Twig: it has the last free herd of unicorns on Earth. Along with the help of a mysterious boy named Ben, Twig must care for and help the unicorns before the dark shadows hunting the forest can get them.

This was a truly mystical and enchanting middle grade fantasy novel that engages the reader from the first pages. Twig is a wonderful lead character. She's young, vulnerable and feels as though her father and his new family doesn't have a place for her anymore. She's lost, alone, and scared. We see her character grow and mature when she discovers the baby unicorn and the island's secret herd. It gives her a purpose and a secret all her own, which makes her gain confidence and inner strength. She's a very likable character and one that the readers can easily identify with. The setting of the book was a great one - the mysterious island shrouded in mist and secrets. It added a great tone to the story and made the adventure even more fun. I loved the plot of the book - I thought it was magical and interesting. Not just a herd of wild unicorn, but the last herd on Earth? The island and its residents all hold lots of secrets and the mysteries of the island were fun to discover alongside the characters. The writing was fast paced and had a great flow, which definitely keeps the reader engaged and eagerly turning the pages to see what will happen next. This is a great middle grade fantasy novel that readers of all ages will want to dive into.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
4671056
You may have read before how very much I love the work of Mary Borsellino. Well, heres some more of that love heading your way.

Borsellinos latest is a shortish YA fantasy called Ruby Coral Carnelian. The title is a reference to this worlds wizards, the kind of magic they use and their willingness (and success) in using blood magic.

The story sees Del, assistant to the Ruby Warlock, discovering the wizard intends to sell him on to another wizard and realizing that this isn't going to end well. As Del plans to run, he discovers that one of the Ruby Warlocks twin step-children, away at boarding school, is in trouble and that the other plans to rescue him. Del ends up helping, and he, Nicholas and Kelsie end up on the run, escaping from powerful people who mean them harm.

So far, so straightforward, and it gets difficult to provide details without also providing spoilers. As always with Borsellinos work, there is more going on than a simple plot explanation can reveal. The characters are flawed yet sympathetic, the story taking some unexpected turns as they learn about themselves and each other.

Ruby Coral Carnelian initially reminded me of my old favourite Diana Wynne Jones. Like many of Joness books, heres a tale that partly explores what happens when kids learn that the adults in their life aren't necessarily dependable, and are possibly even dangerous, and must fend for themselves and grow up at the same time.

Adding texture to this are themes relating to gender identity, concepts of privilege, the assumptions we make, and even notions of disability and wholeness.

In trying to capture the flavour of this book, I told a friend imagine Diana Wynne Jones pencilled the art, but then it was inked by a Vertigo artist.

So thats sort of it. The core of a story that feels as traditional and as sound as a book by the late great Jones, but with its own freshness (and darkness) that explores new territory and reaches different conclusions.

There are many reasons why I think Mary Borsellino is one of the great underappreciated genre writers this country has to offer. The way she combines horror and compassion. Her capacity to create detailed, believable worlds full of cruelty and beauty. Her splendid characterisation. Her queer sensibilities and sure sense of creating people with real flaws and imperfections that are somehow both very real and simply perfect.

Frankly, I know the hyperbole is a lot for a writer to live up to, but also frankly, I have never yet been disappointed by one of her books. I struggle more to tame my praise than to find enough adjectives to add.

If you're not sure you want to tackle Borsellinos longer works like The Wolf House or The Devils Mixtape, give Ruby Coral Carnelian a try to see if what makes me pretty much get a literary boner speaks to you too.
4354829
This is one of the finest young adult books I've read in some time. Typically, I've only indulged in big-name YA writers like Philip Pullman and J.K. Rowling, and I'm glad I gave this a chance.

The book opens at a leisurely pace, building the mythology of Cassaforte, a magic-tinged city that might feel like 19th century Venice. The book does a wonderful job of making this nation feel alive; midway through the book, I already wanted to visit.

Risa is a splendid heroine, likable and flawed, and the supporting cast is charming and alive. The book quickly steps up its pace when Risa's world starts crashing down around her; we switch from dreamy, candle-lit evenings among a noble family to sword-fights, gondola-chases, betrayal, romance, and magic.

The book is woven subtly with strong young women and the beginnings of a social conscience. There's genuine humor and danger, and the ending is tremendously satisfying.

I hear there's going to be a second book; I recommend getting in on the ground floor.
1810179
This book is a really wonderful and charming YA fantasy story, clearly and beautifully written and with such obvious care for every aspect of the story.

My heart ached for Kevin, my giggles were uncontrollable at Morgans fish out of water earnest bluntness. Supporting characters are written well, as true and integral parts of the boys lives who have their own personalities and motivations. The California setting is truly painted with beautiful clarity and is absolutely perfect for the story.

If you love magic and selkies and sweet seaside teenage love stories, well, here is the book you were waiting for!
3278889
So often,  I will see reviews that will mention another title, intimating that this is the "same", and diminishing the book being reviewed by insinuating it is an imitation.  While there are obvious correlations to the set-up for the Harry Potter series here, the similarity ends quickly.
This is a uniquely styled blend of fantasy and reality, with characters who are very current and solidly developed, who just happen to be a part of a training programme that involves magic and spells.

Daniel Fife has managed to create a book that even reluctant readers can enjoy: there is enough of the fantastical to break up the mundanity of every eighth grade life,  and the ultimate quest of good versus evil, as you are just learning what powers and skills you have makes for a gripping tale.  Yes there are friends, and the friendships are tested, and the importance of trust and being there all create small lessons on the way.  But mostly: this is a highly enjoyable read that holds your interest from page to page as you learn and discover this new world with Danny.

As the start of a new series - this one shows great promise: the pacing and world-building were well done and maintained after some early repetitive moments. I was fortunate to have received the newly-edited version: and what I had was a very clean, well-written story that managed to keep interest and flow after a bit of a slow start early on.  As a debut novel, in a high-fantasy style written to appeal to (but never pander to) younger readers, it was an impressive work.  And I am looking forward to book 2 in the Light & Dark Series.

I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review and inclusion in Children Read week.  I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
2370741
My ten-year old is a voracious reader, already having sped through the Percy Jackson series, The Maze Runner, and Harry Potter. While looking for another series to read together, I came across Patrick Hatts novel, Max Blizzard and the Gem of Camelot. I was immediately intrigued by the gorgeous cover of the book, which reminded me of a cross between Hogwarts and Sleeping Beautys castle.

The story opens with Max, a young boy, dealing with nasty classmates on the schoolyard. From the description, settings, and characters, The Giver by Lois Lowry came to mind. As part of a world in which everyone and everything is the same, precocious Max notices things no one else does, talks about things no one else talks about, and daydreams aloud. Though Max finds some comfort in his friendship with Trudesile, hes singled out for being different, struggling to find his place in the world.

Soon after a run in with the school principal, Max and Trudesile get ported to an entirely new realm, where Max is charged with completing his fathers quest to save Camelot, the Earth, and lost realms from Sir Dreadvent.  Along with his friends, Max must find the Gem of Camelot. The action ramps up considerably at this point, and max launches into the meat of his adventure, running into the likes of Davy Jones and King Arthur.

Max is an adorable lead charactera kid that children of all ages will identify with. Dreadvent is a delightfully evil villain, and the secondary characters (Bandaid, Bazooka) provide a bit of comic relief. The storyline is fast-paced and creative, so much so that my son and I kept reading far past bedtime! Max Blizzard and the Gem of Camelot is appropriate for early teens and anyone who enjoys a twist on Arthurian legends.
4041390
This is a fantasy that has great balance of world-building, romance and character development.  With intrigue, mystery and bright flashes of humor, it's a story that keeps the pages turning. The story starts with a bang and the pace move along well throughout.  The characters all feel different and unique, with some amazingly descriptive scenes that have me thinking about the book long after I finished reading.

Overall the plot is well developed, with a few good surprises along the way and I can't wait for the sequel.
I'd recommend for readers 12+ and not just girls.  I'm handing it off to my 13 year old boy, too!
4859905
Although there isn't that much originality in the story itself (which is sorta the point, right?), there's much new goodness to love in the setting and the premise. Loved the whole cyborg angle, and Cinder comes across as a very likable character: spunky, vulnerable, down-to-earth, and determined. I would have liked to have seen a little more maturity in the prince, but that's a minor quibble. This is YA, after all!

The setting was a delight, the supporting characters (especially Iko) were great, and the overall affect charming. I could have done without the cliffhanger ending, but I will be reading on to the sequel.
3756638
A fantastic second book in the best YA fantasy series I've ever read, including That-Which-Shall-Not-Be-Named. It's clever and the hero is wonderful. Elizabeth Haydon is a stellar writer who can truly make the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of her world come alive. Ven Polypheme is my favorite childrens/young adult heroes because he is, in spite of belonging to an old, magical race in an old, magical world, absolutely and utterly real.
3104383
Holy cow! This novel took me by surprise! I'm an avid reader of YA Fantasy and I really enjoyed that this debut novel was so well thought out and completely different from anything I've read before. I really enjoyed the world that he built, as well as the texts that he provided from the works of the world he built, they follow a holy text called the Cataclysmos. I think that added some extra flair that I wasn't expecting.

While most of the book focuses on multiple POV's, we mostly follow that of Nara - although we get a very well rounded story here. Nara has somewhat of a mysterious past, seeing as how she's adopted. Nara has never been a fan of secrets - so having these huge holes in her life doesn't really sit well with her. We start off the book with a ceremony of sorts - one that plunges our female lead into a world of secrets and truths; where she is willing to do just about anything to make things right.

I really enjoyed the journey these characters set out on; one of self-discovery, coming of age, and good versus evil. The pacing was good, balanced well with development. This book is very clean, a true YA read.
610919
Sweet is the first word that comes to mind when it comes to describing INNOCENT DARKNESS. There's something sweet and innocent about the main character and the story that makes the transition from the mortal world to the fae world almost believable. Almost everything about the novel is original, whether it's the characters, the setting or magic. As a debut novel, I think the mash-up between steampunk and fairy is unique and works very well to create an engaging story.

Magnolia, or Noli as her friends call her, started off as a normal girl, despite her keen ability to get into trouble. Crashing an unregistered flying car was the last straw, and the police force more or less forced her mother to send her to reform school. However, Findley School is unlike any normal boarding school. They pride themselves in sucking the life out of girls, or the Spark as the fairies like to call it, in order to create "proper" and "marriageable" society ladies. Personally, I would call it brainwashing.

Noli's spirit can only endure so much of this torturous school so she does the only thing she can think of: she decides to run away. When she unknowingly wishes to be "anywhere but here" while sitting in a fairy tree, she's transported to the Otherworld, the world of fairies. Attracted by her Spark, Kevin Silver, the fairy Queen's huntsman, follows her in the portal and tries to gain her confidence once on the other side. No ordinary huntsman, Kevin's quest is to find a girl with strong Spark every seven years in order to sacrifice her to stabilize the magic that bind the Otherworld and all worlds together. Unaware of the threat Kevin poses, Noli still doesn't entirely trust the fae, especially since he never delivers on his promise to bring her back home to her mother.

Steven (or V as Noli likes to call him) is a character I can't fail to mention. Noli's childhood best friend, he has secrets of his own and he'll stop at nothing to bring Noli back home. I admire his tenacity and his dedication to the task, especially since helping a mortal escape the fairy world isn't a small task. I would love to talk more about him but since I don't want to ruin the surprise, I'll let you discover his secrets on your own.

Personally, I find steampunk America and fairy elements work well together to create this unforgettable world. I would have liked to have seen more steampunk elements but since a lot of the story was set in the fairy world, the author was restricted a little bit on that front. I find it interesting that the author used Los Angeles and San Francisco as the settings for the novel instead of using the typical Victorian London that so many others use. The writing is still a bit raw and could use a little work but overall, I found INNOCENT DARKNESS to be an engaging read. Every little element of the book combine to make an excellent young adult read that I would recommend it to anyone who likes the genre. I will definitively read the rest of the series, especially since the ending of INNOCENT DARKNESS sets us up for a interesting sequel. What do you think? Do you find fairy and steampunk work well together?