The Secret Garden will always have a special place in my heart because I watched the 1993 film plenty of times when I was growing up. I loved the idea of a secret place you could go to that nobody knew about, the blooming flowers and tame animals. But I hated Mary Lennox.
And I mean hated. She's a spoilt, vicious, unruly brat who is finally taught a good lesson. She ends up being bearable. In the book, she's even worse. However she's more likable at the end.
So, as you now know, I was brought up with the film, which actually has slightly more to it than the book. They made the family situation more complex and certain characters have more of a part to play. It makes a bit more sense.
I know those of you who read the book first and loved it as children are probably thinking that I must not have read the same book and watched the same film, but I assure you, I have.
I think the main reason I wasn't so enthused is because I'm not a child. I think if i had read this as a child then i would have laughed along with them, found a sense of wonder in the changes that the garden and the moor bring and most of all, not been annoyed at the spelling when people are talking in a Yorkshire accent. I can quite easily imagine a Yorkshire accent, thank you. But If I were still a child, I might have even tried to do one.(Although I can see why it was used).
In it's own right, it's a nice little story about friendship, changes and gardens. Which is all well and good, as long as you haven't read anything you deem to be amazing, because then in comparison this is a really dull book. I had to force myself to keep reading it, and it's not even very long. I was happy when my kindle told me i had less than half and hour to go.
The language is extremely dated, and the overuse of the word 'queer' really started to annoy me. However the garden and nature imagery in general was lovely, and the whole premise of the story is good. I also did like a bit nearing the end that was talking about Archibald Craven. That was very nicely done.
Overall, I'm sure children would still enjoy it, but find it a little difficult, but i felt there was something distinctly lacking from it. This is may be partially due to the fact that the film had a few plot points done differently and I preferred them (and the presence of Maggie Smith).
I give it 2 out of 5 stars.
Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Review. Show all posts
Wednesday, 23 January 2013
Monday, 17 September 2012
0.4 by Mike Lancaster
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| The book cover - image from google |
I love the cover of the book. It's pretty awesome and makes you think about what weirdness could possibly be in this book. So, just by looking at it you can tell that it's a sci-fi. Futuristic in some ways and completely normal to the point of mundane in others. It has everything to do with technology. It's so sci-fi, I wasn't quite sure how to react when I finished the book. I think my thoughts were: "Well, that's odd, and also pretty cool". one thing I can say for sure is that it has some great ideas and leaves you thinking about reality.
Reality itself is a huge theme here. And I thought the book was a bit short actually, because it didn't explore reality in the way I would have liked. Sure, it was action-packed, but I wanted more background and insight.
It's an easy read, and very interesting (I read it in a few hours). But I don't think it's for everyone. Basically if you're not a fan of dystopias, weird goings-on, mysteries or classic science fiction, don't read it. If you're in it for a story that is different, interesting, and plot-driven it's for you. A good thing is that it can be read by either gender, as long as they like the premise.
Unfortunately I didn't really feel much for the characters. I understood Kyle, but wasn't really overly empathetic towards him. I think perhaps the author could have described his feelings a bit more. It was probably more aimed at a teen audience though, so I'm not really the target audience.
However, I think teens would love this, I think especially boys who like sci-fi and gadgets.
For me, this book gets 2/5 stars. While it was a good idea, and I loved the premise, I don't think it was executed quite right for me. I didn't feel much fro the characters and it was on the young side.
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There is a sequel already out, called 1.4, which tells you about the aftermath of 0.4.
0.4 /Human4 on Goodreads.com.
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
Bumped by Megan McCafferty
This was a book that I saw on Amazon and was interested in, but it wasn't until my sister lent me the book (with not overly sparkling reviews) that I managed to read it.
Bumped is set in the 2030s, after a virus has 'swept the world', making everyone over 18 infertile. This has lead to the use of surrogates (both professional and amateur). Melody is one of these surrogates. She's worth more as a surrogate because genetically she's practically perfect. But before she can do the deed her religious twin sister Harmony turns up on her doorstep to spread the word of God.
The characters were interesting, and the choices they make, and what they go through and have gone through are a good subject for a book. However, I found both Melody and Harmony to be annoying at various points throughout the book. It was mainly their use of language, and the way they would get overemotional at some things, but not emotional enough at others. In that way I guess they weren't a very realistic representation of the girls in society today.
The fact that the were twins was also interesting, and the whole plot surrounded it. Only one problem, first they were very distant with each other, as you might expect when you find your long lost sister, but at the end they had a link that was really unrealistic.
Speaking as a twin myself, I hated it. We twins don't have a random connection, we're just like any other sisters, only closer (sometimes). Although there wasn't any ridiculous psychic abilities, it still annoyed me.
However, I loved Zen as a character. He's well rounded and normal, which is more than I can say for the rest of them.
Some of the language was good, but there were parts that also really annoyed me. here are some examples:
'pregging', 'negging', 'bumping', 'for serious'. These I can just about understand. i know what they mean and there will be some slang in the future. But what the hell is 'renegging', 'thumped' and 'PTL!'? Which reminds me, there are also far too many exclamation marks, and sexual music excerpts.
If you can get past these things though, it's actually not a bad book. It deals with very important issues, that we all face and that we all understand.
Bumped deals with a lot of issues and themes, which I really like, such as religion, teen pregnancy, surrogacy, sex in general, advancement, cultural values, perfectionism and choices. This does redeem it, as it does make you think (something I love in a book).
Overall, a good book, but with some really annoying habits. Awarded 3 out of 5 stars.
Bumped is set in the 2030s, after a virus has 'swept the world', making everyone over 18 infertile. This has lead to the use of surrogates (both professional and amateur). Melody is one of these surrogates. She's worth more as a surrogate because genetically she's practically perfect. But before she can do the deed her religious twin sister Harmony turns up on her doorstep to spread the word of God.
The characters were interesting, and the choices they make, and what they go through and have gone through are a good subject for a book. However, I found both Melody and Harmony to be annoying at various points throughout the book. It was mainly their use of language, and the way they would get overemotional at some things, but not emotional enough at others. In that way I guess they weren't a very realistic representation of the girls in society today.
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| Picture from Google |
The fact that the were twins was also interesting, and the whole plot surrounded it. Only one problem, first they were very distant with each other, as you might expect when you find your long lost sister, but at the end they had a link that was really unrealistic.
Speaking as a twin myself, I hated it. We twins don't have a random connection, we're just like any other sisters, only closer (sometimes). Although there wasn't any ridiculous psychic abilities, it still annoyed me.
However, I loved Zen as a character. He's well rounded and normal, which is more than I can say for the rest of them.
Some of the language was good, but there were parts that also really annoyed me. here are some examples:
'pregging', 'negging', 'bumping', 'for serious'. These I can just about understand. i know what they mean and there will be some slang in the future. But what the hell is 'renegging', 'thumped' and 'PTL!'? Which reminds me, there are also far too many exclamation marks, and sexual music excerpts.
If you can get past these things though, it's actually not a bad book. It deals with very important issues, that we all face and that we all understand.
Bumped deals with a lot of issues and themes, which I really like, such as religion, teen pregnancy, surrogacy, sex in general, advancement, cultural values, perfectionism and choices. This does redeem it, as it does make you think (something I love in a book).
Overall, a good book, but with some really annoying habits. Awarded 3 out of 5 stars.
Monday, 11 June 2012
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Steifvater
The cover is blood red with the shadow of a horse on it. Curly dark red is strewn across it in the shape of a heart, and the white writing over the top is pretty cool too. I do like an interesting font.
However, I don't usually like seaside stories, and aren't usually fond of horses either, but the idea of the story was what made me pick it up. The Scorpio races happen every year. They are a race of sea horses, and to race means that someone will die. It is a certainty.
The idea is that a girl enters the race (the very first girl may I add) to save her family from poverty as there is a hefty amount of money available if you win the races. So, that's a good start - it has danger and a touch of romance. From there it went downhill.
This book, in one word, was disappointing. The idea was good, the sea horses were actually pretty scary, but to me the characters did not have enough substance to them. I liked most of the characters, but I wasn't overly invested in them. The only one I thought was interesting was Finn, the girls brother.
It might be worth a mention here that I did think it was a bit weird how easily people got over deaths, for example, of their parents and friends. You would have thought that some of the book would be about their feelings on that, but not much time is put into it, it is more about the feelings of now. Saying this, it does make for a quicker pace.
The romance was quite well written, it played out how you might expect it to in a usual teen relationship. But the whole tone of the book was either solemn, nervous or occasionally exhilarated. However, it was easy to read, unless the tone depresses you.
Something that I did think was very good though, is the fact that Steifvater deals with women's rights and the treatment of women in a mans sport. It was well done in mu opinion.
I do think that this is written with younger readers in mind, even though one of the main characters is supposed to be 19. I think this is more for 14-15 year olds who love horses. I'm not a fan of horses, but I thought that the idea would make it worth the read, which it certainly is. But, for me there was still something missing in this book.
The ending is very exciting, but everything comes off as you might expect it to, so, yeah, disappointing. The ending isn't so much of a bang as a small fizzle in which everything goes as you always expected it to.
However, it was, overall, fairly enjoyable, and brilliant to the right audience. Unfortunately, I'm not the right audience so it gets 2 out of 5 stars, because quite frankly, there's not much substance to the characters.
( Also, don't read this if you hate it when authors use people's whole names. It grated on my nerves.)
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Quite a lot of other people seem to like it, so have a look at these opinions:
From GoodReads.com
Tuesday, 5 June 2012
The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern
This book has been on my Amazon wish list for a long time. I finally got a copy as a birthday present, and was ecstatic.
Firstly, I have to say what made me want it was the cover. It's just so beautiful and elegant. The circus and the well-dressed old fashioned couple on the front are wonderful, all in black and white, with just a dash of silver and red.The man in looks particularly charismatic. Underneath the cover is the face of a clock. The most intriguing clock, as it doesn't have any numbers or numerals on it. And if you open up the cover there are white top hats and bowler hats on a black background, the odd few red. But what got me is the pages. Every page lined with black so it looks like the book has a velvet side. I love it when the pages are coloured that way. and to top it off, a red bookmark.
So basically, it was the most beautiful book I'd ever seen and I had to have it.
Then there's the blurb, also particularly intriguing.
All we know is that there is a circus that comes at night, the Cirque du Reves (the circus of dreams), and two people have been bound.
The plot was interesting, I loved the premise and all the ideas surrounding it, but I still feel that there could have been more in detail descriptions so that I could fully appreciate the circus, although it does make it more mysterious not to have them. The atmosphere of the whole tale is beautiful.
Saying this, some of the ideas within the tents were wonderful, I especially loved the cloud maze, bottle room and ice garden, and the descriptions of these were perfect.
Now for the bad bit.
The game itself, although connected to the circus, was not as exciting as I wanted it to be. The whole book was more about the ethereal and mysterious nature of magic, and less about any kind of magical battle/duel. It isn't as quickly paced as anticipated. The love scenes, however, were well written, with just enough detail, but not too much information. Although Marco is incredibly fickle, too much so for my liking, and they are a little quick to fall in love.
The main characters were good, especially Bailey and Marco, as I thought that they developed well, although others did not. This may have been because there were so many different characters, and so not many characters got a spotlight, the ones that did are not especially well developed, like Celia, but others are much better. Too many characters was a major downfall of this book, as most of them were not well rounded, and did not serve much of a purpose in the book. Characters such as Isobel, Mr. Barris and Madame Padva.
However, Alexander is a very good character. he is the perfect concoction of mystery and intrigue, with a cloudy, elongated past and never revealing his true feelings or intentions. Although the author dos not make it clear why there is a competition between Alexander and Prospero, you feel that Alexander has a good reason.
Balance, time and stories were some very interesting themes associated with the book, and I would have liked them to be explored more, and can only hope that it will be in the future.
Overall this is an intriguing book with some beautiful ideas, concepts, descriptions and mysteries, but there are far too many characters to the author to keep up with (it felt like each character was hanging by a loose thread, whilst being juggled precariously) and the plot was not quite as snappy as I would have liked it to be. So I'm awarding it 3/5 stars.
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This nook has divided views a lot. So here are some more:
Goodreads.com
The Guardian Review
Erin Morganstern's Blog
Firstly, I have to say what made me want it was the cover. It's just so beautiful and elegant. The circus and the well-dressed old fashioned couple on the front are wonderful, all in black and white, with just a dash of silver and red.The man in looks particularly charismatic. Underneath the cover is the face of a clock. The most intriguing clock, as it doesn't have any numbers or numerals on it. And if you open up the cover there are white top hats and bowler hats on a black background, the odd few red. But what got me is the pages. Every page lined with black so it looks like the book has a velvet side. I love it when the pages are coloured that way. and to top it off, a red bookmark.
So basically, it was the most beautiful book I'd ever seen and I had to have it.
Then there's the blurb, also particularly intriguing.
All we know is that there is a circus that comes at night, the Cirque du Reves (the circus of dreams), and two people have been bound.
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| The Beautiful Cover. Image from Google. |
Saying this, some of the ideas within the tents were wonderful, I especially loved the cloud maze, bottle room and ice garden, and the descriptions of these were perfect.
Now for the bad bit.
The game itself, although connected to the circus, was not as exciting as I wanted it to be. The whole book was more about the ethereal and mysterious nature of magic, and less about any kind of magical battle/duel. It isn't as quickly paced as anticipated. The love scenes, however, were well written, with just enough detail, but not too much information. Although Marco is incredibly fickle, too much so for my liking, and they are a little quick to fall in love.
The main characters were good, especially Bailey and Marco, as I thought that they developed well, although others did not. This may have been because there were so many different characters, and so not many characters got a spotlight, the ones that did are not especially well developed, like Celia, but others are much better. Too many characters was a major downfall of this book, as most of them were not well rounded, and did not serve much of a purpose in the book. Characters such as Isobel, Mr. Barris and Madame Padva.
However, Alexander is a very good character. he is the perfect concoction of mystery and intrigue, with a cloudy, elongated past and never revealing his true feelings or intentions. Although the author dos not make it clear why there is a competition between Alexander and Prospero, you feel that Alexander has a good reason.
Balance, time and stories were some very interesting themes associated with the book, and I would have liked them to be explored more, and can only hope that it will be in the future.
Overall this is an intriguing book with some beautiful ideas, concepts, descriptions and mysteries, but there are far too many characters to the author to keep up with (it felt like each character was hanging by a loose thread, whilst being juggled precariously) and the plot was not quite as snappy as I would have liked it to be. So I'm awarding it 3/5 stars.
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This nook has divided views a lot. So here are some more:
Goodreads.com
The Guardian Review
Erin Morganstern's Blog
Tuesday, 22 May 2012
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
Cinder is the story of a cyborg mechanic in futuristic New Beijing. Captivating already.
Now, it also has other elements: the stepmother (legal guardian), handsome prince, a ball. This is Cinderella, but not at all as you know it.
As an avid consumer of fairy-tale adoptions, both in literature and film, I was always going to go for this one. But the thing that really got me wanting to read it it the setting, and in fact the general premise of it. What makes it so different from other adaptations is that it is futuristic (kind of like in A Long, Long Sleep, but better). The idea of Cinderella being a cyborg in New Beijing is wonderful, especially as we get to know the perks and difficulties that come with it. Throw in a few androids, portable screens, I.D chips and were peachy for the future. These ideas are very, very well thought through, and for such a small book I am very impressed with how much was explained, although I would like to see more explanation of what happened to the world in the next few books. The ideas of the futuristic earth aren't really that far out of reach, which I love.
The characters have the depth that is needed to really bring this story to life, with Cinder far more feisty and interesting than her Disney counterpart. (I was always very disappointed with Cinderella, because she let things happen to her, and gave up far too early for my liking. If it were me I'd have moved out of that house waay back). The prince has a far larger role to play than in original stories, with emotional turmoil and the weight of a kingdom on his shoulders he has his work cut out.
The themes in this are wonderful. It has all the usual that you would expect: Love, life issues, death, good and evil, and so on, but they are looked at in ways that I've rarely seen before. It makes them more interesting.
Then theres the other themes: duty, loyalty, betrayal, freedom, guilt, lies, finding who you are, all weaving into Cinder's life to make a truly complex book.
The narrative is good, the story completely sucks you in within the first few pages. The plot points, revelations and details are executed well. I think that this book is more aimed at young adult readers, although I would still recommend this to adults and slightly younger teens too.
Also, look out for other fairy tale references.
The themes are good, the heroine is believable (even if she is a cyborg) and the twists are cutting, so I'm giving this book 5/5 stars.
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Marissa Meyers Website
Marissa Meyers Journal
Reviews from Goodreads.
Now, it also has other elements: the stepmother (legal guardian), handsome prince, a ball. This is Cinderella, but not at all as you know it.
As an avid consumer of fairy-tale adoptions, both in literature and film, I was always going to go for this one. But the thing that really got me wanting to read it it the setting, and in fact the general premise of it. What makes it so different from other adaptations is that it is futuristic (kind of like in A Long, Long Sleep, but better). The idea of Cinderella being a cyborg in New Beijing is wonderful, especially as we get to know the perks and difficulties that come with it. Throw in a few androids, portable screens, I.D chips and were peachy for the future. These ideas are very, very well thought through, and for such a small book I am very impressed with how much was explained, although I would like to see more explanation of what happened to the world in the next few books. The ideas of the futuristic earth aren't really that far out of reach, which I love.
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| Image from Google. |
The themes in this are wonderful. It has all the usual that you would expect: Love, life issues, death, good and evil, and so on, but they are looked at in ways that I've rarely seen before. It makes them more interesting.
Then theres the other themes: duty, loyalty, betrayal, freedom, guilt, lies, finding who you are, all weaving into Cinder's life to make a truly complex book.
The narrative is good, the story completely sucks you in within the first few pages. The plot points, revelations and details are executed well. I think that this book is more aimed at young adult readers, although I would still recommend this to adults and slightly younger teens too.
Also, look out for other fairy tale references.
The themes are good, the heroine is believable (even if she is a cyborg) and the twists are cutting, so I'm giving this book 5/5 stars.
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Marissa Meyers Website
Marissa Meyers Journal
Reviews from Goodreads.
Wednesday, 11 April 2012
Before I Go To Sleep by S.J. Watson.
Before I go to Sleep follows Christine on her daily journey to regain a handle on who she is, as well as trying to confront the shadows of her past that come back to haunt her every day. Christine has been suffering from amnesia for twenty years. Every day she wakes up and doesn't know where she is, or even sometimes who she is. She needs to be told every detail upon waking. Today she gets a phone call which starts todays journey into the life that she doesn't know she has lived.
This book deals with very interesting ideas, such as the nature of memory, grief, betrayal, paranoia, love, fear, trust, ambitions and losses. It deals with every emotion imaginable. In one book with less than 400 pages this is quite a feat.
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| Image from Wikipedia |
Despite this, it is a wonderfully powerful book. Hard hitting and well written. On the cover of the version I own it describes Before I go to Sleep as 'unsettling'. I think this is exactly the perfect word to describe it. Of course, it being a book about amnesia some of the content is repeated and mulled over a few times, but I think this only contributes to the feeling of utter confusion and distrust apparent in the book. Other reader might be put off by the repetition though.
I barely knew that it was a thriller when reading it, until it hit me full in the face. It feels much more of a slow terror rising inside you. S.J. Watson is a good writer, but not amazing. However, Watson is very good at holding the reader at arms length, supposedly letting you in on secrets, but still having more to reveal. And that's the way I like it.
I am awarding it 4 out of 5 stars, as I am not sure it is for everyone, but for most it is a book that would be an insightful, and intriguing read.
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S.J. Watson Website.
Richard and Judy Book Club Reviews. - scroll down to see more reader reviews.
Thursday, 5 April 2012
1984 by George Orwell
(Warning: Possible Spoilers)
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As a classic, 1984 was always going to be on my reading list. So many people reccommend it, and now I can finally see why. The themes and ideas presented in this book make you think. This is a quality in a book that I value very highly.
Winston Smith is an average man. He works, eats and sleeps like any other person. But Winston works for the Ministry of Truth, he is a member of The Outer Party. To some he is privaleged but to him his life is mediocre and has no meaning. Winston hates The Party, and wants to destroy it, but this is thoughtcrime, punishable by death.
This is the story of the individual struggle against the oppressive dictatorship of Oceania.
Nineteen Eighty-Four is a true dystopian It is often said to be one of the first that truly captured the atmosphere of perpetual war and the ideas of what is reality and what is only in the mind, and how the mind can trick itself if you will it to.
we can see how 1984 has made its mark upon society in many ways, the most obvious being that words coined by it: 'Big Brother', 'Room 101', 'double-think', and the term 'Orwellian' also came from this book.
There are various themes, all of which are some important themes to deal with even in the most ideal life and world: Futility of war, individuality, oppression, death, life, the different natures of love, the workings of the mind and so on.
I was not sure what to make of Winston, nor in fact any of the characters. In fact there was only one person in the whole book who I felt something for, the rest of them I felt sorry for because if their experiences, not because I was attached to them in any way. The person I felt something for was Winstons mother, who may have laid down her life and her daughters' life in order for her older son to live.
I found 1984 quite difficult to read, most especially when Winston is reading The Book. This is a similar experience to how I felt when reading 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde. I suppose this is probably because they are both classics, and also because it is, in my opinion, a very long winded and complex piece of writing in some areas. Although I enjoyed both books immensely, their themes and stories being wonderful, this is something which puts me off a book.
Although towards the end Winstons struggle with how he views society is very interesting, I was slightly disappointed in the ending of the book. As although itthe reader always knows in their hearts how it will end, I couldn't help but feel that there should have been more explosive than it was. It was a bit tame for my liking.
I am giving 1984 three out of five stars, because, although it is good story with interesting themes, it was not to my taste in terms of the ongoing war and complex writing at some points.
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1984 on Wikipedia
1984 on GoodReads, if you would like a second opinion.
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As a classic, 1984 was always going to be on my reading list. So many people reccommend it, and now I can finally see why. The themes and ideas presented in this book make you think. This is a quality in a book that I value very highly.
Winston Smith is an average man. He works, eats and sleeps like any other person. But Winston works for the Ministry of Truth, he is a member of The Outer Party. To some he is privaleged but to him his life is mediocre and has no meaning. Winston hates The Party, and wants to destroy it, but this is thoughtcrime, punishable by death.
This is the story of the individual struggle against the oppressive dictatorship of Oceania.
Nineteen Eighty-Four is a true dystopian It is often said to be one of the first that truly captured the atmosphere of perpetual war and the ideas of what is reality and what is only in the mind, and how the mind can trick itself if you will it to.
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| Image from Wikipedia.org |
There are various themes, all of which are some important themes to deal with even in the most ideal life and world: Futility of war, individuality, oppression, death, life, the different natures of love, the workings of the mind and so on.
I was not sure what to make of Winston, nor in fact any of the characters. In fact there was only one person in the whole book who I felt something for, the rest of them I felt sorry for because if their experiences, not because I was attached to them in any way. The person I felt something for was Winstons mother, who may have laid down her life and her daughters' life in order for her older son to live.
I found 1984 quite difficult to read, most especially when Winston is reading The Book. This is a similar experience to how I felt when reading 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde. I suppose this is probably because they are both classics, and also because it is, in my opinion, a very long winded and complex piece of writing in some areas. Although I enjoyed both books immensely, their themes and stories being wonderful, this is something which puts me off a book.
Although towards the end Winstons struggle with how he views society is very interesting, I was slightly disappointed in the ending of the book. As although itthe reader always knows in their hearts how it will end, I couldn't help but feel that there should have been more explosive than it was. It was a bit tame for my liking.
I am giving 1984 three out of five stars, because, although it is good story with interesting themes, it was not to my taste in terms of the ongoing war and complex writing at some points.
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1984 on Wikipedia
1984 on GoodReads, if you would like a second opinion.
Thursday, 19 January 2012
The Heir Chronicles by Cinda Williams Chima
The Heir Chronicles is a trilogy surrounding the world of the Weir (that's magical beings to you and me). These are people with Weirstones, allowing them to have capabilities beyond what is usually possible. There are five types of Weir: Wizards, Warriors, Enchanters, Sorcerers and Seers.
These three books focus on three young people each belonging to a group of Weir, and the events surrounding them.
Now these books are apparently for ages ten and up, which is why I could so accurately predict what was going to happen presumably. Although with the amount of death threats and actual death in these books I would probably not give them to a ten year old to read.
The themes surrounding this set of novels were simple: Relationships, Trust, Strength and Courage, Life Struggles and Overcoming Evil.
These are the kind of themes I very much enjoy, but sometimes find lacking as they are used over and over in books, especially of the fantasy genre.
But these books did not dissapoint me. The characters with these ideals were well rounded and I did feel something for the characters, although I would say not as much as I have for other characters.
There was one character in particular that I loved, and for those of you who have read this trilogy, or are yet to read it, this character is Jason. Definitely my favourite. I can't say much else otherwise I will definitely spoil the plot.
Which reminds me, the plot was good, if predictable quite a lot of the time, but younger readers would probably find it less so and therefore enjoy the suspense more. As it was, the only suspense I had was wondering what else would happen inbetween finding out major plot points.
Although at times I found myself wavering on boredom, over all I would say that this is a good set of books, to be enjoyed mostly by younger readers, but young adults would also enjoy it.
For that reason I give it three and a half stars out of five.
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- Apparently there are two more Heir Chronicles yet to come out, but this works as a trilogy. But I will be reading the next two books :).
Wikipedia Page (WARNING: PLOT SPOILERS)
Fantastic Fiction Review
Need more opinions? Here's Good Reads on The Warrior Heir.
These three books focus on three young people each belonging to a group of Weir, and the events surrounding them.
Now these books are apparently for ages ten and up, which is why I could so accurately predict what was going to happen presumably. Although with the amount of death threats and actual death in these books I would probably not give them to a ten year old to read.
The themes surrounding this set of novels were simple: Relationships, Trust, Strength and Courage, Life Struggles and Overcoming Evil.
These are the kind of themes I very much enjoy, but sometimes find lacking as they are used over and over in books, especially of the fantasy genre.
But these books did not dissapoint me. The characters with these ideals were well rounded and I did feel something for the characters, although I would say not as much as I have for other characters.
There was one character in particular that I loved, and for those of you who have read this trilogy, or are yet to read it, this character is Jason. Definitely my favourite. I can't say much else otherwise I will definitely spoil the plot.
Which reminds me, the plot was good, if predictable quite a lot of the time, but younger readers would probably find it less so and therefore enjoy the suspense more. As it was, the only suspense I had was wondering what else would happen inbetween finding out major plot points.
Although at times I found myself wavering on boredom, over all I would say that this is a good set of books, to be enjoyed mostly by younger readers, but young adults would also enjoy it.
For that reason I give it three and a half stars out of five.
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- Apparently there are two more Heir Chronicles yet to come out, but this works as a trilogy. But I will be reading the next two books :).
Wikipedia Page (WARNING: PLOT SPOILERS)
Fantastic Fiction Review
Need more opinions? Here's Good Reads on The Warrior Heir.
Monday, 12 September 2011
Numbers by Rachel Ward
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| Image from google |
I have to say, Rachel Ward has written a stunning book. Everything in it, no matter how different to our lives or how spectacular, is so utterly believable.
All the characters are very well-rounded. Their emotional journeys are perfect. Even the smaller, less featured characters seem to be quite well developed, which is remarkable for such a small book.
One thing which is also pretty cool, is that this time I knew that Ward had definitely done her research as a writer, or at least been to Basingstoke, among other areas. If you know/have driven in Basingstoke, please, please read the part of this book that mentions it. I won't ruin it for you. So very, very funny.
The amount of detail that the book goes into it utterly brilliant.
Numbers has everything I wanted from a book; adventure, morals, explorations of society (free will, control and predestination to name a few), mortality and even romance.
I may have also teared up a tiny bit at the end. (It was quite emotional, to be fair.)
So I'm giving this book a definite 5 out of 5. Number 2: The Chaos is on it's way in the post and Numbers 3 I'm sure will be too!
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| Image from google |
Rachel Ward's Website.
The Guardian's Review
Review by Galleysmith
Monday, 29 August 2011
Reckless by Cornelia Funke
I have to admit at first I thought that Reckless was about werewolves, what with the vampire-werewolf-paranormal hype going on at the moment. But I soon learnt that this wasn't the case.
Jacob Reckless has been going through the mirror for a long time. But never before has he been followed through. Now his brother Will is in deep trouble. Will is becoming a Goyl, the stone-faced creatures who prefer darkness, whose cold and angry characters are revealed in their golden eyes. Jacob will go through everything to stop it, but how far is too far?
Now, I love Cornelia Funke. Inkdeath is one of my favourite books. So this book just reminded me how much I adore her beautiful prose and wonderful descriptions of both the land beyond the mirror, and the imaginative creatures roaming around the land. I think my favourite part was the novel idea of stone/jewel people. I've always loved the beauty and idea of precious stones, so this kind of topped it a little for me.
I was quite surprised when the second chapter landed us smack-bang in the middle of the story, and even though it did vaguely tell us how Will had become hurt and how he could become as Goyl, it was never fully explained.
Another thing that I wasn't overly impressed with, that seemed to be explored better in Funke's Inkworld (although probably because it was a trilogy, and the books were bigger.. I think) was the relationships and any bonds between the characters. There was already bonds between them and so nothing was really introduced in the story. The existing relationships weren't explored during the book. As readers we were expected to believe that the relationships had substance, without much evidence. The only real conviction I got was how much Jacob wanted Will not to become a Goyl.
Saying this, Reckless was filled with adventure, fairy tales and creatures of all sorts. Quite a lot happened within the book that I loved. It's the kind of book I knew I would like.
Luckily, there seems to be a sequel in the works, so hopefully the relationships will be explored more, and we get to know what happens in the next chapter of Jacob's life. Should make for an interesting read.
I'm giving reckless around a 4 out of 5. Although because of the relationships I was tempted to give it a little less. But the adventure was exceedingly likable, as was Jacob.
And I WILL be getting the sequel, when it comes out.
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Goodreads.com Reviews
Wikipedia Page
Reckless Website
Jacob Reckless has been going through the mirror for a long time. But never before has he been followed through. Now his brother Will is in deep trouble. Will is becoming a Goyl, the stone-faced creatures who prefer darkness, whose cold and angry characters are revealed in their golden eyes. Jacob will go through everything to stop it, but how far is too far?
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| Image from Wikipedia |
I was quite surprised when the second chapter landed us smack-bang in the middle of the story, and even though it did vaguely tell us how Will had become hurt and how he could become as Goyl, it was never fully explained.
Another thing that I wasn't overly impressed with, that seemed to be explored better in Funke's Inkworld (although probably because it was a trilogy, and the books were bigger.. I think) was the relationships and any bonds between the characters. There was already bonds between them and so nothing was really introduced in the story. The existing relationships weren't explored during the book. As readers we were expected to believe that the relationships had substance, without much evidence. The only real conviction I got was how much Jacob wanted Will not to become a Goyl.
Saying this, Reckless was filled with adventure, fairy tales and creatures of all sorts. Quite a lot happened within the book that I loved. It's the kind of book I knew I would like.
Luckily, there seems to be a sequel in the works, so hopefully the relationships will be explored more, and we get to know what happens in the next chapter of Jacob's life. Should make for an interesting read.
I'm giving reckless around a 4 out of 5. Although because of the relationships I was tempted to give it a little less. But the adventure was exceedingly likable, as was Jacob.
And I WILL be getting the sequel, when it comes out.
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Goodreads.com Reviews
Wikipedia Page
Reckless Website
Monday, 27 June 2011
To the Moon and Back By Jill Mansell
Ellie Kendall has everything she needs from life, until her husband is suddenly taken from her.
She eventually emerges from her hollow existence, realising all she needs is a new start (due to her father-in-law), even though she still keeps something old with her. Her husband Jamie. But the thing with Jamie is, he talks to her.
Roo is a party girl. And she just so happens to live opposite Ellie. She has a secret. in fact.. a few really.
Zack has just met the woman of his dreams. But she doesn't know he exists, and wouldn't be interested if she did.
This story is about the intricacies of relationships, both old and new, and the pain of loss. But most of all it's about love. And if anything describes a Jill Mansell novel, it's the word romance.
This book is quick, indulgent and a perfect summer read. Always a good book for lazing around on a beach or reading in the garden (when the weather perks up). Although this is not altogether as light hearted and fun as some of Jill Mansells other novels, but still rather good.
It also weaves and interlaces the characters stories skillfully, as you may expect from seasoned writer.
So I'm giving this book 4 out of 5.
It's only a 4 because I'm looking for new and different aspects to be brought to the table now, especially after reading Delirium by Lauren Oliver. Although it is always comforting to settle down with something you know will be a well written predominantly light-hearted romance.
She eventually emerges from her hollow existence, realising all she needs is a new start (due to her father-in-law), even though she still keeps something old with her. Her husband Jamie. But the thing with Jamie is, he talks to her.
Roo is a party girl. And she just so happens to live opposite Ellie. She has a secret. in fact.. a few really.
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| From Book Depository.com |
This story is about the intricacies of relationships, both old and new, and the pain of loss. But most of all it's about love. And if anything describes a Jill Mansell novel, it's the word romance.
This book is quick, indulgent and a perfect summer read. Always a good book for lazing around on a beach or reading in the garden (when the weather perks up). Although this is not altogether as light hearted and fun as some of Jill Mansells other novels, but still rather good.
It also weaves and interlaces the characters stories skillfully, as you may expect from seasoned writer.
So I'm giving this book 4 out of 5.
It's only a 4 because I'm looking for new and different aspects to be brought to the table now, especially after reading Delirium by Lauren Oliver. Although it is always comforting to settle down with something you know will be a well written predominantly light-hearted romance.
Wednesday, 1 June 2011
Raising Demons by Rachel Hawkins
WARNING: MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS
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Raising Demons is the explosive second book of the Hex Hall series by Rachel Hawkins.
The story starts where it left off, at Hex Hall. it's been six months since the last book, and not much has changed, unlike Sophie's life so far. And there's more to come. So much more.
This summer Sophie has even more to think about. The mysteries keep unfolding and the tables keep on turning. This book really does have twists an turns that I did not expect, although some I really did.
I also managed to read this within 24 hours. With long breaks. That includes sleeping and a film.
The characters are just as lovable, especially Jenna, the pink-loving Vampire, and the story may just grab hold of you even more than the first book.
I really looked forward to reading this one, and the next one I'll definitely be buying as soon as possible.
As before with Rachel Hawkins the book flows well, with laughs here and there, elegant descriptions, ghosts, demons and men. Everything a good book should most definitely have.
So, after what seems a pretty glowing review, I'd better give it 5 out of 5, and admit that these books are kind of addictive.
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Hex Hall Series Website
Review on Wondrous Reads
Raising Demons on Amazon.co.uk
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Raising Demons is the explosive second book of the Hex Hall series by Rachel Hawkins.
The story starts where it left off, at Hex Hall. it's been six months since the last book, and not much has changed, unlike Sophie's life so far. And there's more to come. So much more.
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| Picture from fictionalfantasy.com |
This summer Sophie has even more to think about. The mysteries keep unfolding and the tables keep on turning. This book really does have twists an turns that I did not expect, although some I really did.
I also managed to read this within 24 hours. With long breaks. That includes sleeping and a film.
The characters are just as lovable, especially Jenna, the pink-loving Vampire, and the story may just grab hold of you even more than the first book.
I really looked forward to reading this one, and the next one I'll definitely be buying as soon as possible.
As before with Rachel Hawkins the book flows well, with laughs here and there, elegant descriptions, ghosts, demons and men. Everything a good book should most definitely have.
So, after what seems a pretty glowing review, I'd better give it 5 out of 5, and admit that these books are kind of addictive.
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Hex Hall Series Website
Review on Wondrous Reads
Raising Demons on Amazon.co.uk
Monday, 16 May 2011
Delirium by Lauren Oliver
Delirium is a quiet masterpiece. The descriptions are beautiful and the storyline is good. It's different, even from other futuristic society novels.
Delirium is all about love. Only love is a disease. Amor Deliria Nervosa to be precise. And the way it's described is perfect. It wreacks havoc upon you. At least, that's what the government is saying. Lena believes whole heartedly in the cure for this disease. A cure you have at 18. She has 95 days.
But then something happens on the day of her Evaluation. And that's when the adventure really begins.
Delirium is a haunting and detailed story. I'm sure I'll have it in my head for a good few days, even if I start reading another book. But this book. Wow.
It shows a change of perspectives, this time it's from the viewpoint of someone who agrees with society. And it takes a hell of a lot for her to think that it may not be right. It's quite refreshing to see this. Usually people who are against society in fiction are already inclined to be against it.
Whereas her best friend Hana is breaking rules left right and centre.
Lena is the perfect herione. She's flawed and interesting. But she's just like you and me, which makes you like her even more. In fact, the only thing that annoyed me about her was the fact that during the first half of the book she was very derogatory about herself. She was hard on herself. but as always she matures and grows throughout the book., so I guess it was kind of needed.
If anyone thought that we didn't need love, reading this book would make them think otherwise. It's heart wrenching and beautiful, and makes you see all kinds of love. Romantic, Friendship, Familial and so on.
It also made me think about the divide and difference between adults and children. This was defined even more by the cureds and uncureds, the adults and children in Lena's world. It made me think that adults still need fun in their lives, otherwise it's not really living.
And the ending is a complete heart breaker.
This book is stunning. And I'm giving it 5 out of 5.
And I'm getting her previous book.
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Links.
Lauren Oliver's Website.
Delirium by Lauren Oliver in Cari's Book Blogs.
Wikipedia: Love
Delirium is all about love. Only love is a disease. Amor Deliria Nervosa to be precise. And the way it's described is perfect. It wreacks havoc upon you. At least, that's what the government is saying. Lena believes whole heartedly in the cure for this disease. A cure you have at 18. She has 95 days.
But then something happens on the day of her Evaluation. And that's when the adventure really begins.
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| Picture from Google |
It shows a change of perspectives, this time it's from the viewpoint of someone who agrees with society. And it takes a hell of a lot for her to think that it may not be right. It's quite refreshing to see this. Usually people who are against society in fiction are already inclined to be against it.
Whereas her best friend Hana is breaking rules left right and centre.
Lena is the perfect herione. She's flawed and interesting. But she's just like you and me, which makes you like her even more. In fact, the only thing that annoyed me about her was the fact that during the first half of the book she was very derogatory about herself. She was hard on herself. but as always she matures and grows throughout the book., so I guess it was kind of needed.
If anyone thought that we didn't need love, reading this book would make them think otherwise. It's heart wrenching and beautiful, and makes you see all kinds of love. Romantic, Friendship, Familial and so on.
It also made me think about the divide and difference between adults and children. This was defined even more by the cureds and uncureds, the adults and children in Lena's world. It made me think that adults still need fun in their lives, otherwise it's not really living.
And the ending is a complete heart breaker.
This book is stunning. And I'm giving it 5 out of 5.
And I'm getting her previous book.
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Links.
Lauren Oliver's Website.
Delirium by Lauren Oliver in Cari's Book Blogs.
Wikipedia: Love
Friday, 6 May 2011
Matched by Ally Condie
Cassia has waited all her life to be matched. And on her seventeenth birthday she is matched with a young man. Except all is not what it seems. Cassia has two matches. The Society has made a mistake. The society never makes a mistake. Cassia is determined to find out why.
Cassia's world is our future. Set in an indeterminable place where The Society dictates exactly how people live; what they wear, what they eat, who they love, when they die.
It's a world I would hate to live in.
This story is a beautiful one about people, love and rules, exploring in detail various facets of love and society, and how lucky we are to be able to have choices of our own.
I also liked how the love scenes were so pure and thoughtful. How it wasn't just a rushed love story, and the characters fitted well together, and actually talked. Even though it was set fatalistically, this was realistic.
Cassia, in my opinion was a good heroine. She is thoughtful and clever, yet not quite as daring as I thought she would be, but that is also realistic. How often do we stop to think about our society? I very much enjoyed journeying through the questioning of society with her.
For me, there are many questions that need answering, so I hope that when I get 'Crossed', the next installment, that it will be just as thoughtful and well written as 'Matched'.
Of course, this book isn't one to be read lightly, and probably isn't for a lot of readers, but for me it was 5 out of 5 stars.
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Official Website for Matched by Ally Condie
Matched in Cari's Book Blogs
Cassia's world is our future. Set in an indeterminable place where The Society dictates exactly how people live; what they wear, what they eat, who they love, when they die.
It's a world I would hate to live in.
This story is a beautiful one about people, love and rules, exploring in detail various facets of love and society, and how lucky we are to be able to have choices of our own.
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| Picture from google |
The themes here are ones only ever lightly touched upon in today's novels: People's choices, Slow burning love, different types of love, the importance of words and culture and the importance of knowledge.
In fact, to me the scariest part of this Society was that there was such a limited amount of culture and history. Only alarming perhaps because so much of how we live today is influenced by it. This book really highlighted that fact. There were only 100 songs, 100 paintings, 100 stories and 100 poems. It made me realise how hungry people really are for knowledge.
Cassia, in my opinion was a good heroine. She is thoughtful and clever, yet not quite as daring as I thought she would be, but that is also realistic. How often do we stop to think about our society? I very much enjoyed journeying through the questioning of society with her.
For me, there are many questions that need answering, so I hope that when I get 'Crossed', the next installment, that it will be just as thoughtful and well written as 'Matched'.
Of course, this book isn't one to be read lightly, and probably isn't for a lot of readers, but for me it was 5 out of 5 stars.
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Official Website for Matched by Ally Condie
Matched in Cari's Book Blogs
Tuesday, 3 May 2011
Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins
I have literally just put the book down.
I only started it yesterday.
I think that tells you that this books was an easy read with plenty of twists and plot lines to keep me hooked. It was just one of those books.
This is the story of 16 year old Sophie, who, upon casting a pretty disastrous love spell, is relocated to Hecate/Hex Hall, a magical reform school. Even the first day of this school goes wrong, and Sophie finds she's left at a weird school where she doesn't fit in.
But what's under the surface of this school is the interesting part.
And this book tells the story of Sophie's discoveries of the best kept secrets the school has.
Although the story may not be overly original, and I could see what was going to happen in the book, it happened in a different way to what I had expected. There were twists and turns and the characters have some substance. There are always layers beneath what Hawkins has already shown us.
It was like an older version of a mash up between Harry Potter and the Worst Witch, only set in America, and with other creatures at the school. You could definitely see the inspiration from R.K Rowling's masterpiece sluicing through the book. And although Rachel Hawkins adored the use of the word 'heinous' I can forgive her because some of the circumstances were just that.
Also, I loved the ending. A bit of a cliffhanger and there are now endless possibilities running through my head.
At times the book was funny, sad, scary. But not a complete emotional roller coaster. And possibly a little on the younger side for the young adult readers out there. But still, I am very much looking forward to the next installment.
4 out of 5 stars
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Links.
The Hex Hall Website
I only started it yesterday.
I think that tells you that this books was an easy read with plenty of twists and plot lines to keep me hooked. It was just one of those books.
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| Book Cover - From Google/Waterstones |
But what's under the surface of this school is the interesting part.
And this book tells the story of Sophie's discoveries of the best kept secrets the school has.
Although the story may not be overly original, and I could see what was going to happen in the book, it happened in a different way to what I had expected. There were twists and turns and the characters have some substance. There are always layers beneath what Hawkins has already shown us.
It was like an older version of a mash up between Harry Potter and the Worst Witch, only set in America, and with other creatures at the school. You could definitely see the inspiration from R.K Rowling's masterpiece sluicing through the book. And although Rachel Hawkins adored the use of the word 'heinous' I can forgive her because some of the circumstances were just that.
Also, I loved the ending. A bit of a cliffhanger and there are now endless possibilities running through my head.
At times the book was funny, sad, scary. But not a complete emotional roller coaster. And possibly a little on the younger side for the young adult readers out there. But still, I am very much looking forward to the next installment.
4 out of 5 stars
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Links.
The Hex Hall Website
Friday, 25 March 2011
The Five People You Meet In Heaven by Mitch Albom
The Five People You Meet in Heaven is a story about life. Eddie's life in particular. But also yours and mine. Every single person's.
I adore this book, and can say right away that its 5 out of 5 stars.
To explain what this book is about, here's a passage from it:
' "There are five people you meet in heaven," The Blue Man suddenly said. "Each of us was in your life for a reason. you may not have known the reason at the time, and that is what heaven is for. For understanding your life on earth." '
So the book follows Eddie on his journey through the first step of heaven; making sense of your 'yesterdays'. As we walk through heaven with Eddie, as so look deeper into his life, I found myself looking at similarities with my own.
This is a story about many many things. There's Loss, Pain, Death and Shadows but also Love, Change, Stories and most of all Happiness.
Even if, like me, you don't believe in Heaven or God, this book is still about you.
Mitch Albom writes in such a way that you can't help but be drawn in, and to think about how it would reflect on your life.
It's simplicity and explanations of life will leave you quietly contemplating your own, and your version of a heaven, and also the people within your life.
I adore this book, and can say right away that its 5 out of 5 stars.
To explain what this book is about, here's a passage from it:
' "There are five people you meet in heaven," The Blue Man suddenly said. "Each of us was in your life for a reason. you may not have known the reason at the time, and that is what heaven is for. For understanding your life on earth." '
This is a story about many many things. There's Loss, Pain, Death and Shadows but also Love, Change, Stories and most of all Happiness.
Even if, like me, you don't believe in Heaven or God, this book is still about you.
Mitch Albom writes in such a way that you can't help but be drawn in, and to think about how it would reflect on your life.
It's simplicity and explanations of life will leave you quietly contemplating your own, and your version of a heaven, and also the people within your life.
Tuesday, 8 March 2011
The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly.
First and foremost. I loved this book when I read it.
As a fan of fantasy and adventure, and also fairy tales, this captured my eye when I saw it in a charity shop. The dark red cover with black creepers edging their way around it told me it was a dark and powerful book. I was under it's spell.
My sister has already reviewed this book, and seeing as it's pretty much exactly what I would have said about it I think that I can safely say that you should visit her review HERE.
Saying this, after reading such books as Fire by Kristin Cashore and The Pact by Jodi Picoult, I would have to give it more of a 4 1/2 out of 5.
As a fan of fantasy and adventure, and also fairy tales, this captured my eye when I saw it in a charity shop. The dark red cover with black creepers edging their way around it told me it was a dark and powerful book. I was under it's spell.
My sister has already reviewed this book, and seeing as it's pretty much exactly what I would have said about it I think that I can safely say that you should visit her review HERE.
Saying this, after reading such books as Fire by Kristin Cashore and The Pact by Jodi Picoult, I would have to give it more of a 4 1/2 out of 5.
Monday, 7 March 2011
Fire by Kristin Cashore
This novel by Kristin Cashore is set in the same, beautifully detailed world that her debut novel Graceling was set in. But a different part. Fire is the writers second book and is a companion book to Graceling.
(by that way, Graceling is a wonderful book, do give it a read.)
But this book in a way was a little more sophisticated than the writers first novel.
It explores the life a woman named Fire.
Fire is a monster. This means that she possesses a beauty so stunning that it entrances peoples minds. They can't help but feel something for her.
Another minor downfall was that it was slightly predictable, although so many twists and turns arose that for the most part I was a little dumbfounded.
Quite an intense read (if you read it all at once like I did) and infused with such a comprehensive set of emotions it leaves the mind wondering what exactly just happened.
This book I would say is along the Lines of Cornelia Funke and Tolkien proportions.
Though through multiple twists Cashore kept me reading and wanting to know how it panned out, and she ties up the ends rather nicely.
A definite 5 out of 5. But not for the idle reader.
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Another readers take on Fire by Kristin Cashore
A readers take on Graceling
Kristin Cashore's Blog
(by that way, Graceling is a wonderful book, do give it a read.)
But this book in a way was a little more sophisticated than the writers first novel.
It explores the life a woman named Fire.
Fire is a monster. This means that she possesses a beauty so stunning that it entrances peoples minds. They can't help but feel something for her. This is an intoxicating tale of a woman's quest to uncover her purpose whilst battling against her own horrific beauty.
It explores many themes; Monsters, Beauty and Control, Power, Strength, Parental Influence, Grief and Loss, Individuality, Embracing Yourself and so on, all in a mix of wonderfully developed characters and a wonderfully ambitious setting.
Again, as with Jodi Picoults The Pact, at first I found the names and areas confusing, having to retreat to the map a few times, but I was completely into it from the start.
I just couldn't put it down. Which is always a sign of a good book. (Though I would say this book was particularly suited to me, as I adore fantasy adventures.)
I just couldn't put it down. Which is always a sign of a good book. (Though I would say this book was particularly suited to me, as I adore fantasy adventures.)
Quite an intense read (if you read it all at once like I did) and infused with such a comprehensive set of emotions it leaves the mind wondering what exactly just happened.
This book I would say is along the Lines of Cornelia Funke and Tolkien proportions.
Though through multiple twists Cashore kept me reading and wanting to know how it panned out, and she ties up the ends rather nicely.
A definite 5 out of 5. But not for the idle reader.
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Another readers take on Fire by Kristin Cashore
A readers take on Graceling
Kristin Cashore's Blog
Saturday, 5 March 2011
The Pact by Jodi Picoult
Another masterpiece by the wonderful Jodi Picoult.
The Pact is a story that every one on us can relate to in some way. Even though the actual storyline is something which very few of us would ever have to go through, there are so many layers of thought put into it that you feel like you know each characters story personally.
And it goes like this:
Chris Harte and Emily Gold have known each other their whole lives so far. But today one of those lives has been cut short. Emily has died, and Chris is the prime suspect in her murder case. Is it murder, or is it suicide, or is it something completely different? What is the Truth?
This book immerses the reader into the lives of Chris and Emily and all those involved in the case. The sad thing is, Jodi Picoult tells Emily's story from so many loving points of view that you don't want her to be dead, even though she is. You see her through everybody else's eyes, very rarely her own.
It not only explores a large range of topics including: Loss, Prison, Trauma, Relationships, Expectations, How Well You Can Know A Person, Love, Family, Truth and so on, but also areas of research such as Crime, Law, Science, Psychology and Art. Which is always wonderful to see in a book.
Although it is at first confusing, noting who is who, and what their relationships are, soon you are entrapped in their world. This way you feel a great affinity for the characters.
I also adore the fact that you don't know what happens until nearing the end. You're free to make your own assumptions on whether Chris did kill Emily or not.
I absolutely despise an ending that I can foresee in a book. Especially if I can foresee it a mile off. But in this book, although I had my theories, there was nothing telling me the true story until the point it was revealed. And that's just how I like it.
Perhaps the only real bad thing about it is that you can't read it lightly. (But I hardly think that's a deal breaker.) And that it took me a small amount of time to get truly into it. But once you are, you're in for a literary treat with this suspenseful, emotional masterpiece.
As this book gave the the heart-wrenching story I was looking for, albeit with a few bad things, I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
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Another Review on The Pact.
Review #2 on The Pact.
Buy it Here at Amazon.
The Pact is a story that every one on us can relate to in some way. Even though the actual storyline is something which very few of us would ever have to go through, there are so many layers of thought put into it that you feel like you know each characters story personally.
And it goes like this:
Chris Harte and Emily Gold have known each other their whole lives so far. But today one of those lives has been cut short. Emily has died, and Chris is the prime suspect in her murder case. Is it murder, or is it suicide, or is it something completely different? What is the Truth?
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| Book Cover |
It not only explores a large range of topics including: Loss, Prison, Trauma, Relationships, Expectations, How Well You Can Know A Person, Love, Family, Truth and so on, but also areas of research such as Crime, Law, Science, Psychology and Art. Which is always wonderful to see in a book.
Although it is at first confusing, noting who is who, and what their relationships are, soon you are entrapped in their world. This way you feel a great affinity for the characters.
I also adore the fact that you don't know what happens until nearing the end. You're free to make your own assumptions on whether Chris did kill Emily or not.
I absolutely despise an ending that I can foresee in a book. Especially if I can foresee it a mile off. But in this book, although I had my theories, there was nothing telling me the true story until the point it was revealed. And that's just how I like it.
Perhaps the only real bad thing about it is that you can't read it lightly. (But I hardly think that's a deal breaker.) And that it took me a small amount of time to get truly into it. But once you are, you're in for a literary treat with this suspenseful, emotional masterpiece.
As this book gave the the heart-wrenching story I was looking for, albeit with a few bad things, I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
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Another Review on The Pact.
Review #2 on The Pact.
Buy it Here at Amazon.
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