Kathy A

3 Stars for The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes

Revisado: 06-08-20

3 Stars for The Ballads of Songbirds and Snakes

I loved The Hunger Games series, both the books and movies, and was so excited when I heard about the prequel. I had heard the prequel would focus on the early years of the infamous President Snow, yet I jumped into this book with an open mind. Overall, I liked The Ballads of Songbirds and Snakes but did struggle reading this.

What did I like?

The Ballads of Songbirds and Snakes takes place during the 10th anniversary of the Hunger Games. I thought it was interesting to see this world before all the high technology it evolved into. I was also surprised to hear of the struggles the residents of the capital experienced. Their problems are nothing like those in the districts, but it was shocking to see how they survived.

I hate to admit it but a part of me was starting to like Snow. Readers are given a glimpse into Snow's past and the tragedy he had overcome. He is torn between doing his duty, supporting his family, doing what is right and trying to survive. I wouldn’t say Snow is a swoon worthy character but he does show a softer side, which was a welcoming difference from the later books.

I really liked Lucy Gray Baird, the girl from District 12 who is paired up with Snow. She’s a quirky character and seemingly the weakest tribute. Lucy brought her performance background to the games, charming the crowd with her singing and friendly personality. This served her well in becoming the audience favorite.

I enjoyed the references to The Hunger Games books and I thought it was a creative way to tie them together. I won’t spoil it but once you finish reading this book you will understand the title and images on the book cover.

What didn’t I like?

I listened to the audiobook and I did not like the narrator. This is my first time listening to Santino Fontana and he was a poor choice. I love listening to audiobooks because narrators enhance the story by bringing the characters and scenes to life. Fontana failed in doing this. He basically read the book, even the scenes that involved singing. His narration added to my struggles with this book, making me not want to listen at times. 1 star for his performance.

I had some problems with the pacing of this book:
-The first half of this book the pace was very slow. Because of the new characters introduced in this book it took so much time to share their background stories. So the first part of the book is very slow and boring. I found it too hard to stay focused and remember who each character was.
-The last chapters of the book felt rushed. In the final scene with Lucy and Snow I had to rewind the audiobook multiple times to fully understand what had happened.


As a fan of the series this is worth reading and the hardback cover sits next to my copies of the trilogy. This isn’t a redemption story of President Snow, but it’s a glimpse in the history of the Hunger Games. I wish there was more of Panem history, hopefully the author can take fans further back to the days of the rebellion.

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4.5 Stars for Ninth House!

Revisado: 11-03-19

4.5 Stars for Ninth House!

Ninth House is the stunning adult debut from author Leigh Bardugo.  I’ve read her young adult series and the Ninth House is filled with the same magic and captivating storytelling.  Galaxy “Alex” Stern is starting her freshman year at Yale and is the newest member of the Lethe House, the secret police for nine secret societies. Why are they so secret?  Because they have rituals with human sacrifices to gain magical powers. Alex has a special power of her own, which is seeing ghosts (automatically I thought of the movie Sixth Sense, “I see dead people”). As she and her mentor, Darlington, patrol the societies the author introduces readers to this very dark and sometimes gory world.  I’m not a horror fan, but I was intrigued with the story and the characters. The story had many twists that kept me guessing. But I did think the first half of the book was very slow. There was a lot of details of the history of the societies and alternates between past and present, so as I listened to the audiobook I lost my concentration. Often times I had to reverse the audiobook because I missed a detail. Luckily the pace picked up and the details started fitting into place.

The audiobook is narrated by Lauren Fortgang and Michael David Axtell.  I thought their performance was excellent and they brought life to the story. I enjoyed the distinct voices they created for the characters and the intensity they brought to the scenes. 

Despite the slow beginning, I enjoyed the Ninth House.  This is a book I normally wouldn’t read so it was a nice change from my favorite paranormal romance genre. This story is intriguing, dark and creepy. Alex is a troubled character and is trying to get control of her gift and her life. I can’t wait to see her character growth in this series.

Warning:

You may have seen a warning on social media or in other reviews for this book, but I still think it is important to share. Alex has lived a troubled life, with drug abuse and violence. There is a rape scene in chapter 7 (when she goes in the bathroom) which can be skipped. If skipped, readers will still be able to follow the story and get an understanding of Alex’s character. There is also mention of date rape, but it is not played out in a scene.

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5 Stars for The Burning Shadow

Revisado: 11-03-19

5 Stars for The Burning Shadow

My thoughts (spoiler free)

The Burning Shadow is the long awaited second book in the Origin series and I loved it! The story picks up from where The Darkest Star ended and it feels so good to spend time again with these characters. Evie is still struggling with the truth of her identity and her friends are by her side to support her. Luc is still the bad boy alien but fans see more of his sensitive and passionate side. Their romance is slow building, with a mix of tender and steamy moments. Luc’s ranks in my BBF list jumps to the top because of his heart-warming revelations and protectiveness of Evie. JLA amazed me with his voice and often left me weak in the knees. Along with the romance the story has humor and I love the characters banter. It’s clear with this teasing how much love they have for each other and how they have become a family. There is also suspense, action and heart-breaking scenes that kept me glued to the story. The audiobook was 16 hours long and I tried to not rush into listening to this book. I did not want this book to end!

Saskia Maarleveld’s narration for the audiobook was excellent.She brought the characters to life with their unique personalities and emotions. Combined with JLA’s talented writing, the audiobook was entertaining and I highly recommend listening to this version.

I can’t wait for the next book!

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5 Stars for Nice Dragons Finish Last

Revisado: 07-12-19

I am so excited to have found a new urban fantasy series to be addicted to. I loved this book!

Nice Dragons Finish Last is the first book of the Hearstrikers series. This series centers around Julius, the smallest dragon of the Hearstriker clan, as he tries to survive in the human world. His goal in life was to stay out of the way of his mother and his ambitious siblings. Hiding in his room had worked until his mother finally lost her patience. Banished by his mother, Bethesda the Hearstriker, Julius is thrown into the human world of the DFZ (Detroit Free Zone), sealed as a human and penniless. But fate has plans for Julius as he finds allies in Marci, a human mage, and his reluctant siblings. This first book is the beginning of Julius adventures and I enjoyed every moment. There was exciting action scenes and a little romance. This also had me laughing out loud, which is a huge must for when I select series to read.

This was the first book I read from this author and I loved her writing and creativity. The world of this series is futuristic but easy to follow. The DFZ has a Blade Runner vibe with the high tech and out-of-this-world gadgets. The different species of creatures are unique and enhance the magical fantasy elements of this series. I loved the hierarchy the author developed for the Heartstriker clan. Bethesda is the only known dragon to have produced multiple clutches of dragon eggs. To maintain records of her clutches she used the alphabet system, in which each clutch was assigned a letter of the alphabet and the dragons produced from that clutch given a name starting with that letter. The first and oldest clutch began with letter “A”, so as we meet the Heartstriker dragons we can tell by their name how old they are. Julius is from the “J” clutch, which is often the butt of the joke as his older siblings were not aware his clutch existed. This may sound complicated, but it is actually funny when you read the book.

This series is told primarily from Julius point-of-view. I rarely read from a male POV, so this was refreshing. Julius is a nice guy, instead of being the cold-hearted dragon his family expects of him. It was surprising to see he maintained his values when approaching important decisions. His time spending hidden away in his room playing video games and taking online courses is now paying off, as he shows everyone his skill with negotiating without killing. Also in this series is a great supporting cast of diverse personalities. Marci is full of life and energy, and I loved how passionate she was about magic and gaining more knowledge of it. Brohomir (aka Bob), Julius’ older brother, is the clan’s seer and one of the funniest characters I’ve come across. He says the strangest things but his mind is sharp and has plans for Julius. Chelsie, Julius’ older sister, is the clan’s enforcer/assassin who everyone avoids. She may be tough and scary but Julius’ good guy nature is chipping away at her cold exterior, this is clear since she hasn’t killed him (yet). Finally, there is Justin, Julius’ slightly older brother but of the same clutch. He is the complete opposite of Julius with his arrogance but he cares for Julius and does what he can to help him.

Vikas Adam narrates the audiobook and I loved his performance. This is my first time listening to him and I loved the voices he created for the characters. He also does a great job of amplifying a scene by narrating with energy and excitement. I loved how he brought Bob’s quirkiness to life. I highly recommend the audiobooks for this series.

Nice Dragons Finish Last is a great introduction for a series I plan to binge read. I’m excited to find out what happens next for Julius and Marci. I highly recommend this series to fans of urban fantasy with action and humor.

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5 Stars for Finale!

Revisado: 06-17-19

Finale is the perfect ending for the Caraval series. I loved this book!

Finale picks up from the second book, Legendary, which you must read to understand this series. Because of this, my review will be spoiler free. I delayed reading Finale because I didn’t want to see this series end, but I gave in because I missed being a part of this world. Finale did not disappoint in giving the closure fans needed and the adventure, romance and passion the fans love. I especially loved witnessing all the characters mature and find their true destiny. For a YA series it’s important for me to connect with the characters but to also see them grow. I loved the characters independence and the strengthening of their relationships. Scarlett and Tella were up against some difficult challenges but they faced them with bravery, cleverness and determination to save the people they loved.

I met the author Stephanie Garber in May during her Finale tour and she is a pleasure to talk to. In person you can see how passionate she is about this series and it is also evident in her writing. All the books are magical. Ms. Garber has taken the time to create characters readers can connect with and a world that is both dark and beautiful. I loved her creativity, as seen with the Fates. More details of the Fates were revealed in Finale but I want more! I hope the author creates a spinoff to showcase characters of the Deck of Destiny.

Rebecca Soler is the narrator for the audiobook and as usual I loved her performance. She always brings the characters to life by portraying them with unique voices and the passion of the characters. The excellent narration and flawless writing made Finale an exciting and enjoyable read.

The Caraval series is magical and a great escape from the ordinary. I highly recommend this to fans of fantasy and I look forward to the next adventure Stephanie Garber takes us on next.

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5 Stars for The Triumphant

Revisado: 03-16-19

The Triumphant is an epic finale, written perfectly for the brave and courageous warrior sisters of the Ludus Achillea. I loved every moment of this book!

You must read the previous books, so I won’t spoil the story. The Valiant series is an amazing journey through the eyes of Fallon and her gladiatrix sisters. If you love strong, intelligent and fierce women then you must read this series. Author Lesley Livingston is a master storyteller, pulling me in with the struggles of female equality mixed with the treachery of Roman politics. Every scene was vivid, either with a battle or an emotional moment. Fallon’s journey of discovering her purpose was a bumpy ride, filled with heartbreak and joy. By her side are her gladiatrix sisters and friends to support her along the way. I loved the cast of characters each played an important role in the plot and were given a spotlight.

I’ve listened to the entire series as audiobooks and I highly recommend this format to everyone. Fiona Hardingham does an amazing narration for this series. In The Triumphant she put her heart and soul in her narration for this book, bringing me to tears at the emotional scenes. It is exciting to hear her perform the elegant voice for Fallon and Cleopatra, then change to the gruff male voices. At times it was hard to believe there was only one narrator and not many.

I loved The Triumphant and I’m so sad to see this series end. I enjoyed how the series ends, giving closure but I hope the author can create a spinoff of some of the characters. This series has something for everyone - exciting battle scenes, fierce women, treachery, sisterhood and romance. I look forward to reading more books from Lesley Livingston!

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5 Stars for Queen of Air and Darkness

Revisado: 01-22-19

5 Stars for Queen of Air and Darkness!

I loved Queen of Air and Darkness! This is the final book in The Dark Artifices series and you have to read the previous books, so this review will be short and spoiler free.

This book was an emotional rollercoaster ride from beginning to end. The early chapters were gut-wrenching, picking up from where the last book left off. I knew this part of the story was going to be difficult, but I wasn’t prepared for how emotional it left me. Had I known I would not have started listening to the audiobook while driving to work (I was in tears by the time I arrived at work). Cassandra Clare delivered an amazing finale filled with action, suspense, romance, friendship and family unity.

If you haven’t read Cassandra Clare’s books you should be prepared for the subplots within her stories. Some readers might find this frustrating, but I enjoy seeing what the other characters are dealing with and how in the end their stories connect. This does make for a slow pace which I also don’t mind since I love this world so much. I loved the creative twists in the story. It was surprising and entertaining, and it allowed some of the characters to heal from their grief. Along with her talented storytelling are the characters she creates, whom I’ve grown to love. Friends from other series join the fight, but it is Emma and the Blackthorns who shine in this book. From the youngest Blackthorn, Tavvy, to the eldest, Helen, they each play an important role in keeping their family together. Emma continues to be the fierce fighter devoted to loving and protecting the Blackthorns. There are so many supporting characters in this series that deserve a shout out and shown some love, it is so easy for me to get lost and addicted to this world. I loved the closure for this series and the peak into the books to come. Now I must endure the long wait for her next release.

I listened to the audiobooks for this entire series and I loved James Marsters performance. Marsters (Spike from TV’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer) brought the story to life. I was amazed at the range of voices he created for the characters. His performance for the evil Riders of Mannan gave me goosebumps. If you enjoy audiobooks I highly recommend listening to this series in this format.

I love the Shadowhunters world and I can’t wait for the next Cassandra Clare book.

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Another hit from Marissa Meyer!

Revisado: 12-29-18

Archenemies is the second book in the Renegades series, and I loved it!

Why did I love Archenemies?

• I love Marissa Meyer’s storytelling, so I was not disappointed with Archenemies. In this world there is no clear line between “good” and “evil”, as you’ll see in the politics of this society. Meyer clearly allows readers to understand what drives both sides actions, which makes it difficult to choose who is right and wrong. This adds conflict to the plot and readers see how the characters handle moral issues. Along with the seriousness of the story there is exciting action, funny moments and sweet romance that always makes Meyer’s books entertaining.
• Meyer’s writing always consists of well-developed and complex characters. In Archenemies I was drawn to the “good” and “evil” characters. I loved the characters and I enjoyed seeing the supporting characters get some spotlight. It was fun watching the banter between Ruby and Oscar. Adrian and Nova’s relationship is slowly growing into more than friends, but their secrets can jeopardize any future they can have together. The hopeless romantic in me wishes they will find their HEA at the end of this series. Nova continues to be torn between her alliances and her struggle is clear and realistic. I felt a connection with all the characters which made it easy for me to get lost in this world.
• The dual narration of Rebecca Soler and Dan Bittner was perfect. They brought to life the story and characters. I love that they both create distinct voices for each character and their personalities shine through. If I see Rebecca Soler as the narrator, it’s an automatic purchase for me. I love Rebecca Soler!

The ending of Archenemies is another chilling cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next book!

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Loved this!

Revisado: 12-27-18

The Darkest Star is a must read for Lux fans. I love Luc!

My thoughts

I loved being back in the world of Lux! Over the summer I finished the Lux series, so the story and characters are still fresh in my mind. The Darkest Star picks up several years after the finale in the Lux series. The world is different now that the truth of the Luxen alien’s existence has come to light. Evie Dasher is your normal teenager, juggling high school and a social life. Breaking the rules, she and her friend go to a night club for Luxens and humans. The night doesn’t turn out as planned when Evie meets Luc, a Luxen with a bad boy attitude, and the club gets raided. A rocky start to their relationship leads to further complications and unusual deaths in their small-town. The Luxens integration into society has not been equally welcomed by the humans, which mirrors the American social unrest of the segregated schools in the 60’s and the current political state of immigrants. As frustrating as it was, I think the author made a good choice of including this tension in the story so young readers can view how fear can drive people to panic and treat others cruelly.

This book has the same formula as the Lux series - a cocky alien and a strong-willed human. Evie is tough and smart, but at times her stubbornness annoyed me. But Luc is perfect! He has the cocky attitude but when his secrets are revealed you can’t help but fall in love with him. I loved their banter and chemistry, and their connection was partly predictable and shocking.

This book is a spinoff, but you don’t need to read the Lux series. I highly recommend you do since Daemon and Archer make cameos, and you don’t want to miss all the swoon worthy moments with Daemon in the other books. I love the other characters making an appearance and being mentioned, so I hope in the next books we get to see more of my favorite characters.

This was my first time listening to narrator Saskia Maarleveld and I enjoyed her performance. She sounds like Justine Eyre (the narrator for the Lux series) so it was an easy transition to a new narrator and series. The character voices and personalities were spot on and added life to the story.

The Darkest Star has it all – romance, action, suspense and comedy. I took my time to read this book because I didn’t want this to end. This was a great start to a new series with characters I’ve grown to love. I can’t wait to read the next book!

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5 Magical Stars for Legendary

Revisado: 06-17-18

Legendary is a magical adventure with romance and mystery. I loved this book!

Legendary picks up from the first book Caraval, which you must read to understand this series. Because of this my review will be spoiler free. In Legendary it is Tella’s turn to play the game and the stakes are higher (and deadlier). In the first book it took me a while to like Tella because she acted like a spoiled brat. But in Legendary we see the real Tella is brave, intelligent and loyal to her sister. The game requires making tough choices and sacrifices, and Tella proves she will do anything for the people she loves.

I was amazed with how creative and unique this series continues to be. The author created a world that is both dark and beautiful, and I was mesmerized with the details of each scene. There are new characters, new enemies and details of the mysterious Legend that has me wanting more. Caraval is a game but with the twists in the story Tella has a hard time knowing what is real or fake, and I was suspicious too. But this is what made this fun to read. I was glued to the story and couldn’t wait to see what happened next, but part of me also didn’t want this story to end.

Rebecca Soler is the narrator for the audiobook and I loved her performance. She is one of my favorite narrators because she creates unique voices and brings life and excitement to the story. As soon as I saw she was the narrator for Legendary I knew I had to listen to this audiobook.

Legendary has romance, suspense and adventure. I highly recommend this to fans of fantasy. I love this series and I can’t wait for the next book.

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