Refreshing and Unique
922321
Every single page is vivid and colorful. The sophisticated watercolors blend very well with the creative storytelling, making this a memorable book for both children and adults.
2864994
Susane Colsanti's debut novel offers a refreshing read in the contemporary YA genre, told in alternating POV voices, Sara and Tobey. What I loved most about this story was how refreshing it was. Colsanti manages to avoid the "insta-love" trope common in YA books, and really focuses developing Sara and Tobey's relationship over time. The romance wasn't too overly sweet either, but more importantly honest; so you can't help but root for Sara and Tobey as their interactions unfold in the novel. WHEN IT HAPPENS is definitely a fan favorite for any contemporary YA fans who want to read a fresh take on sweet, honest teen romance.
4568492
I downloaded the sample after reading the strong reviews and high star ratings, and was not disappointed.  This was such a unique story, with clever dialogue and references but underneath it all was a deeper story that was slowly unfolding.  I was really touched by this book, the romance and the strong characters.  After reading so many almost "me-too" YA supernatural romance novels, this was a totally refreshing read that did not have to rely on any magical elements.  The only reason for not giving this a 5-star rating is that I figured out early on what was happening, but it didn't detract from the book and I would highly recommend it.
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.
4707667
This book is written in a very unique manner that is both fun and touching. The honesty and down to earth delivery were both refreshing and poignant. One of the most unique books I've read on ones transgender personal experience.

Worth a read!
3299118
A very enjoyable read. It is refreshing and I am going to read the second book in this series.
2481631
This was an easy read but very interesting. I cannot think of any other books quite like this one. It was new and refreshing.
2031545
This is mostly a CD of old, traditional hymns and yet it's totally refreshing.  A much different take on almost all the songs.  A favorite is "The Strife is O'er" - it's actually pretty amazing.  "Amazing Grace" also is a fresh new take of a common song.  LeClerc does the vocals on all the songs as well as doing almost all of the instrumentation.  (Her producer also sang backup and played guitar on the odd song). The two songs written by LeClerc are funky and yet still fit in with the CD.  If you want to hear traditional hymns with a twist, check this out.
4888254
I won't bore you with the differences betwen this book and other fantasy books other than to say that it is unique and very refreshing.  This book is an excellent and quick read.  However, be prepared.  While the story  does not end in a cliffhanger, so to speak, it definitely is meant to be  the first of many books.  You can actually pick out the parts in the last  20 pages where the Tor editor cut out explanations for future use.  BUt, if  you are OK with starting a series, this is far better than Goodkind, more  thoughtful that Eddings, and quicker than G.R.R. Martin.  Also, unlike  Jordan, things actually happen.
3238427
This book was so refreshing... it was truly a breath of fresh air in the world of repetetiveness. You want to hate Pam, but something-you don't quite know what it is- keeps you from doing so. You want to love Paris-but something doesn't smell right. All the characters and writtes so that your emotional like to them is played with, toyed with... Triggering an emotional response from the reader is already a goal, but when you not only trigger one but shake the foundation of it, it's a wonderful thing! Loved it.

Reviewed by Deszion Nasir, Author of Untrust
3849656
The world-building in this book is refreshing. While simple, it does a really good job of making sure it isn't doing the "dwarves, elves, orcs" thing - and though I am an ENORMOUS fantasy nut with Lord of the Rings featured promptly on my 'favorite books' shelf, it can really work against other authors. The linguistics of each culture feels natural. The tug of the noble sibling protagonists casting judgment on others while hypocritically cursing like sailors I feel is deliberate. The monsters these characters meet are unique. The story of the Gods is unique too, and how it plays into and with the plot is a way that I haven't really seen in other books. The plot begins deceptively simple and even disappears for a portion of the book, but then the plot twists, when they finally arrive, actually catch you by surprise.
That isn't to say that the book doesn't have a few faults. While the mention of masturbation, menstruation and sex are a plus (yay being progressive at even MENTIONING them!) they do seem a little disjointed and out of place. A reader can assume it's because they were so sheltered at home and that now they're out on their own they have free reign from the suppression but...not much is given to you. You discover the sexual orientation of one of the siblings, which had hints and implications sprinkled in the beginning, but it's "outed" in an incredibly graphic, out-of-the-blue scene. Some warning or more exposition could have cleared that up more smoothly. A character that appears to be a lethal, formidable antagonist that appears very early on never makes a second appearance, making me question his/its significance. I had some questions regarding the pace of the book as well, but perhaps the sequel will clear it up.
Overall, I would not dissuade people from reading it. It's ambitious and daring enough to be worth the time. Books like this need encouragement for the next stages and installments, as well as criticism towards what didn't work.
2981300
Newstead project was so refreshing in that I've never read anything like it. There's something to be said for originality. It's a paranormal without vampires- finally! The biblical twists are good too. Not too much, but enough to season it. The Nephilim premise was a good one- it's got my interest. I liked that they were big, talented, and different.

I have to say that my favorite character was a guy named Steven- I wish I could have seen more between him and the MC, but then on second thought, I realized their lack of interaction kind of made it what it was. I think Schulz played that perfectly. She created a great relationship based on really little time together. I know the love interest didn't work for some people in the story, but I actually found it very sweet up until things got confusing (when the FTX starts and he gets all weird). I really liked Rachel. I loved her story, her voice, her background. The scenes in the pizza shop were my favorite. It was so very high-school, consistently so, and it earned a lot of points in my mind for those reasons.

The downturns to this book were the shifts in POV. There was no clear indication when they happened, so I would get confused (especially in the beginning) and have to backtrack. Also, there was a couple of points in the book where I wasn't really solid on what was going on, or if I'd skipped a page or two, but I hadn't. It gave me the feeling that I never quite had a grip. A scene in a restaurant between the MC and his love interest comes to mind, as well as a scene at the end. One other thing that makes me rate it at 3.5 is that the ending is built up, lots of great suspense and questions and motivation to figure out what is going on, and then an info dump by a brand new character. While it sets the next book up well (which I plan to read) it also lead to a let down. I also felt like I never really got a grip on the goal of Newstead. It speaks about it at the end, but felt flimsy and a bit underdeveloped.

From what I understand there's another book, and I definitely want to get my hands on it so I can read about what happens.

I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review- and I was so happy to read. Can't wait to read the next!
4600954
Reading Winter Passion was a refreshing change from a lot of the romance out there.  I enjoyed getting to know the characters, Arek and Trina. Moreover reading about their special abilities and how the author brings these two unique individuals together was delightful and creative. While at times, the author fails to lead in with their unique magical qualities the plot steadily unfolds to create the conflict.  While I would have appreciated more depth or reasoning from the crazy villain, the mysterious danger presented, made for some wonderful tense scenes.  All in all it was a pleasurable read!
64421
With the exception of some grammatical errors, this book was refreshing and well written. The story was interesting and kept me intrigued until the end. There are dark relationships that are so very different from what you find in most paranormal books. The concepts, ideas, and understandings of the supernatural are fresh and intriguing. I would most definately recommend this novel, especially considering the price steal!
857321
After a few recent disappointments, it was so refreshing to read a book like this. The language was so lovely and I adore how new words are constructed. Listen to this  when they had found flipper-footing they began to gallop toward me, as sheep hurry over their snowy field to a fresh-dropped hay bale, or pigs cross a sty at the clink of a slop bucket. Flipper-footing. I have a new favourite word.

I had before never ventured into the realm of selkie fantasy fiction, but Im glad to start here. Lanagan really captured the silent heartbreak of tearing these seal-women from the sea, the injustice and the cruelty of it. Although frankly, by the end of this book, I wouldve quite happy to stand around with Miskaella and Trudle and watch the men stay miserable. Having stolen wives for at least two generations (my math is probably not up to snuff), I thought they deserved all the misery they got. (But maybe Im just being very uncharitable.)

The book certainly did a good job of illustrating what an unhealthy love looks like, because none of these marriages, save that of Dominicks mam and dad, were healthy. Misskaella enchanted the men and trapped the women; the men could not look beyond themselves enough to set their wives free; the seal-women loved their husbands but loved the sea more.

The seal-wives were extremely docile for much of the book; stealing their skins seemed to sap them of the spirit to protest their circumstances. That was frustrating, especially since only Daniel seemed to have the guts to release them. However, the seal-women found strength enough to do what was needed to escape and protect their children.

I also appreciate the glimmer of hope there at the end, with Lory and Daniel's second meeting, him smiling. While slightly contrived, it was refreshing, like two souls breaking out of the shadows of the last generation. And Trudle I didn't expect to ever like her, but the final chapter from her perspective was so moving. I was happy that she was content as the island revived around her, that she discovered the last of Misskaellas secrets.

All in all, a lovely read and one Im proud to have on my bookshelf.
2631490
Found this to be a refreshing change from previous works. Story seems original and entertaining. Interest is dynamic and ongoing so that you wish the story goes on and on without being tiresome. The artwork really enhances the overall presentation of the completed work.
994681
I enjoyed this book - very different from other books I've read, and just as engaging.  It was a refreshing story and peaceful to read.