Breakup From Hell by Ann Dávila Cardinal

Breakup From Hell is a new YA fantasy book that was sent to me by the publisher. It was released today! Miguela (Mica) Angeles is excited to get away from her small Vermont town and her strict grandmother by attending college in California. One day, she meets and falls for Sam, a new boy in town. Sam is not who he says he is, and Mica and her friends begin to experience supernatural strength, speed, and terrifying visions. Her plans and perception of herself and her friends' heritages will forever change as Mica is thrown into an ancient battle of good vs evil. 

Let me start out by saying that I am not at all religious, and I know absolutely nothing about Catholicism, a "Saint Michael" or any bible verses. The most education I have about archangels is the song's music video by one of my favorite bands, Amaranthe. I am very happy that the author did explain most of the religious references and bible quotes, otherwise I would have been very, very confused. I usually avoid books that center around religion, but I actually really liked this book. You absolutely do not need to believe in a god or have any knowledge of churches at all to be able to fully comprehend the story. I love discovering books that are unique and bring something new to the table. I've never personally read a YA fantasy book that was even remotely similar to this, but take that with a grain of salt since I don't often read books that involve religion.

I'm glad that Mica and her friends weren't extremely religious/evangelical, because it made it easier to relate to her. It felt like a normal YA fantasy book, a group of teens discovering their powers and ancestry. Zee was my favorite character. She is so sensitive and kind, and her visions and feelings played a key role in the mystery. I loved the mystery aspect. In many fantasy books that involve people with powers, the world-building is completely explained and established in the beginning. It was refreshing to see the teens come into their own while also having that suspense. Breakup From Hell definitely had some creepy moments, but I appreciated that the evil part of good vs evil wasn't too terrifying. 

However, I do have a few nitpicks. I would have wished we had some more background on the characters and perhaps had them showing some signs of powers before we met Sam, because I'm still not sure if Sam and Rona influenced them, or if their presence coincidentally activated their instincts. It would have been nice if their romance started for real, and then along the way we become suspicious of Sam and Rona. I also think that the feelings with Rage (Yes, that is a real character's name), came on a bit suddenly and could have been built up to more. Also, who actually names their kid "Rage?" Seems like you're dooming them to have anger issues. It took me like 20 pages from when he was introduced to realize that he was a character and not a metaphor or imaginary friend. Those aren't big things, just little things. 

I recommend this book! The way it ended, I am curious if we will receive a sequel eventually, and I cannot wait to read that if it did come out. 

Title: Breakup from Hell
Author: Ann Dávila Cardinal
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 304
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

The Memories of Eskar Wilde by E.H. Wilde

The Memories of Eskar Wilde is a YA realistic fiction book that was sent to me by the author. Eskar Wilde had just turned 18, and faced with grief and uncertainty, he sits down to write a memoir of his life over the past few years. From his father's suspicious death to his unfortunate love life, Eskar tells a story filled with mystery and mistakes.

While organized as a memoir, the author explained that too much of it was fictionalized to be labeled that way. E.H. Wilde is also a pen name.

Despite the informal tone, the writing still felt sophisticated. I tend to enjoy books that are structured as journals and where the reader feels valued by the protagonist. Eskar is a good person who highly values his family, and I enjoyed reading the passages that focused on the relationship between him and his mother. I was pleased that he acknowledged his mistakes and had a matured sense of self-reflection. I was initially concerned that he wasn't allowing himself to feel grief, anger, and sadness, but I was happy with Eskar's emotional development towards the end. 

The Memories of Eskar Wilde isn't particularly exciting, but it is still an intriguing and perhaps a calming story. I am not a person who understands French, and I am grateful that the translations to French dialogue were given in the footer. I am a person who highly values background information, but the one complaint that I would have is that at times it felt like too much information, and at times I skimmed some pages in a rush to find out what happens next! The ending was most certainly bittersweet. While I was secretly hoping for a happily-ever-after, I appreciate how it stuck to realistic outcomes. 

I recommend that you read this book!

Title: The Memories of Eskar Wilde
Author: E.H Wilde
Publisher: Tablo Pubishing
Pages: 384
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

The Prince of Infinite Space by Giano Cromley

The Prince of Infinite Space is a New Adult realistic fiction book that was sent to me by the publisher and is released today! 

A few years later in a sequel to The Last Good Halloween,  Kirby is doing well at the military school and has found a passion for journalism. But when the top editor position for the school newspaper is given to someone just because of their socioeconomic status, he loses his progress. He stumbles on a newspaper clipping that shows Izzy, his once-girlfriend, homeless in Chicago. When his father randomly shows up at the school and wants to take him to meet his dying grandmother near Chicago, Kirby seizes the moment to find her.

Kirby based his self-worth and purpose in life based on journalism, and I can understand how this loss sent him spiraling into depression and defiance. Getting in a dark car with someone you've never met, that claims to be your father, is definitely not something I would do, but I can understand and appreciate his motives. To be honest, I skimmed some of the middle passages about his biological father because I was just so excited to see Izzie again! I loved Kirby being on the streets searching for Izzie, but unfortunately their reunion was not what I was imagining and hoping for.

It is a shorter read than the first book, and I do wish that the author had made the book longer; instead of listing examples of what happened, it would have been nice to experience them. I also wish the ending was more concrete. However, The Prince of Infinite Dreams was still well-written and its depiction of homelessness and mental illness was accurate. To be honest, I liked the first book much better than the sequel. However, I am still glad that I read it!

I recommend this book! While the publisher advertised it as a possible stand-alone, I highly recommend reading the first book first to have adequate background knowledge.

Title: The Prince of Infinite Space
Author: Giano Cromley
Publisher: Propertius Press
Pages: 171
Series: Yes, Book 2 of 2
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Tale of the Pack: Elizabeth Forty and the Treasure of Odin's Island by B. P. Williams

Tale of the Pack is a middle grade fantasy book that was sent to me by the author. After 10-year-old orphan Elizabeth Forty escapes from her abusive orphanage, she  saves Kona, a 3-legged kitten from bullies. However, she was also struck on the head with a rock. When she comes to, Elizabeth gains the ability to talk to animals. Now homeless, the animals welcome her into their home. Her troubles are not over, however, when she learns of a threat at the nearby animal rescue. 

I wish that being hit on the head lead to superpowers! It would be awesome if I could talk to animals, particularly squirrels! That is why this book is a fantasy despite including many realistic themes. It is quite ironic that the nightmare of a children's home and school that Elizabeth ran off from is called "Happydale." Take this quote for example: "Singing, playing, smiling and laughing were strictly forbidden. They were corrosive to the development of character" (Williams 22). I would probably take my chances on the street as well! However, Tale of the Pack quickly took another direction very far from the school and my predictions, with the central antagonist and problem centering on how Isadora Moorson, a dark and greedy woman who abuses animals, is gaining control of an animal rescue center.

As Elizabeth is just 10 years old, her decisions and realizations are not always rational. She still seems a bit more mature than that age, but Elizabeth's intellect and character were written well for a child, missing the bigger picture and consequences of her actions in the "real world." I am not very knowledgeable in property law, but let's just say there were a few moments of laughter in reaction to those ideas. Elizabeth is very bright, however, and has a curious personality. I think that young readers would relate really well to her.

For the ending, I do wish there was an epilogue of what happens after, as there are dozens of possibilities and consequences that could result from the climatic ending. Lessons on the value of friendship and greed were established, but I did feel that there were too many unknowns and plot angles not resolved. I also think that there would be a lot of educational value in explaining the real-world outcomes. 

I recommend this book!

Title: Tale of the Pack: Elizabeth Forty and the Treasure of Odin's Island
Author: B. P. Williams
Publisher: B. P. Williams
Pages: 183
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Rise of the Sidekicks by Charity Tober

Rise of the Sidekicks is a middle grade fantasy book that was sent to me by the author. 12-year-old Ethan Parker attends the Justice Academy school for kids with superpowers. He and his friends are ecstatic for the Sidekick Tryouts competition where the Nexus Guardian superheroes of the city will choose recruits. While he doesn't have powers like super speed or pyrokinesis, he hopes that his tech skills and inventions will impress them. But a week before he can, the "Hero Smasher" tricks the Guardians into leaving and mind-controls the population into surrendering all the supers for neutralization. Ethan and his friends band together to take on the Hero Smasher and his army of mechanical robots.

While a very familiar concept of those with powers banding together to save the city and mind-controlled robots, Tober weaved an interesting plot of the Sidekick auditions and the kids desperate to prove themselves to the Guardians. Irony is, they aren't here to see it. The author also did a great job of character development, overcoming self-doubt and fear. Rise of the Sidekicks is the type of book that can be read over and over again, even knowing the ending. For the author's first middle grade book, it is impressive.

A central theme was also what defines a superhero. Ethan doesn't have flashy powers, and battled the belief that he doesn't have "real" superpowers. His cleverness, tech-savvy skills, and leadership abilities are outstanding. Ethan did remind me of Richard Greyson (Robin), from the Teen Titans, and most others reminded me of those featured in The Arrowverse. That isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it made the book a bit nostalgic and more enjoyable.

The only complaint that I have is the lack of origin for their powers. Where did these powers come from? Why these families? The Hero Smasher's background story of why he came to hate the Guardians was strongly written, and it made perfect sense. His origin story was great, but I am just missing the piece of people had these powers to begin with. But for middle grade readers, they may not care about that part.

I recommend this book!

Title: Rise of the Sidekicks
Author: Charity Tober
Publisher: Charity Tober
Pages: 315
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Journey to the Kingdom of No Return (Shelf Life Book 2) by Leslie R. Henderson

Journey to the Kingdom of No Return is the second book in the Shelf Life series that was sent to me by the author. Little Book accomplished his dream of becoming an international best-seller, and is back in the bookstore. But soon, he learns that his shelf-life is running out, and he will be put on sale. Desperate to have more time, he strikes a deal with the lead Space-Arranger to go on a reconnaissance mission to the dark side and retrieve scifi hero Luke Shelfwalker, who has apparently been booknapped to the dark side.

I find it really funny that the video game section is the furthest back in the store that borders the dark side. Is there some symbolism to the dark nature of video games over books? I enjoyed the extension of the setting of the bookstore. The "dark side" actually takes place in the storage room. The assumption would be that nobody cleans out the storage spaces, so the books and other items can stay there forever. The cover is once again amazing, and it shows an actual scene from the story. Henderson also did a great job making that environment creepy; I hate spiders and silverfish. *Shudder*

I enjoyed the subtle humor and frustration, like how Timothy Smithers never puts a book back where it belongs. I understand that frustration completely as I used to volunteer at my local library. Putting the children's section and the ones near it back in order were quite a chore sometimes. It is also true that sunlight can fade the art of a book and can trigger chemical changes in the pages, and many places do try to rotate shifts of what books are in the windows the longest. I also love the comedic and truthful timing of phases like "guns and kids don't mix" (49).

I may be reading too much into this, but one thing I found a bit strange or slightly confusing was that it was never mentioned how many copies of each book there were; one would assume that with how Little Book a best seller that he would have been sold; or he is the only one of x amount of copies that is "alive" and stayed in the bookstore out of luck? Or does each copy of the book have the same memories and thoughts and personalities? Also, one would think that being on sale is sort of a good thing; being right at the front of the store with a compelling price would make it more likely that they would be sold; isn't it ironic that the books are desperate not to go on sale as a last-ditch effort to be sold and want to stay in the bookstore forever? 

I recommend that you read this book and I look forward to reading the next one!

Read my review of the previous book in this series, Never Turn the Page Too Soon.

Title: Journey to the Kingdom of No Return
Author: Leslie R. Henderson
Publisher: Leslie R. Henderson
Pages: 209
Series: Yes, Book 2
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Project Bold Life: The Proven Formula to Take on Challenges and Achieve Happiness and Success by Edward M. Kopko

Project Bold Life is a self-help guide to living a happier, more confident, and overall bolder life through their formula (a committed goal from the Bold Life Pillars (Pi), plus a stretch specific goal (S²) and an Action Plan (Ap). PBL=Pi+S²+Ap). Written by accomplished businessman and entrepreneur, Project Bold Life aims to help one transform their doubts and challenges into boldness and success. This book was sent to me by the company.

Self-help and motivational books are tricky when trying to be relatable and differentiating between lecturing, teaching, and simply giving advice. However, Project Bold Life did find a balance between this. Project Bold Life is broad enough for the messages to be relevant for almost all, but also specific enough so that they can be followed through. I also like how the advice and steps the book offered were explained in relatable, understandable parallels with Ted Talks, events in history, and songs. 

From word clouds to cartoons, the illustrations are both helpful, cute, and relevant. The cartoon to the right is a reference to how stress can be positive; diamonds cannot form without high stress and pressure. 

I enjoyed the empowering tone behind the Fall off the Horse Plan chapters, where one envisions what types of falls and issues they could have, with steps on how to get back on and people who will help them. Often, many books strive for positivity in goal setting and mindset, but fail to address what happens if something goes wrong. 

While this is a review of the book, I did look up the website, quizzes, and worksheets that the book mentioned. The worksheets are very specific in terms of goals for each day, each month, and each year; this provides a higher likelihood of it actually working. The website, projectboldlife.com, is more helpful than the book in my opinion in terms of helpful stories and precise steps. Project Bold Life certainly has some good ideas, but not most of what is in the book is not necessarily original.

I felt that the book spent too long explaining how and why it was/will teach the Bold Life Formula/steps and not enough time actually teaching it. I also wish that the features on people who completed the Bold Life Formula were longer and more detailed. I was unrealistically expecting a style similar to Chicken Soup's books. 

I do think this book and the website can help many people.

See this video on the project and the different pillars: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlmKgeQklUY

Title: Project Bold Life
Author: Edward M. Kopko
Publisher: Edward M. Kopko
Pages: 268
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Signs in the Dark by Susan Miura

Signs in the Dark is a YA mystery thriller novel that was sent to me by the publisher. 17-year-old Haylie Summers is kidnapped one night after getting a text that (supposedly) came from a classmate she liked, Nathan. Now she is tied up, gagged, and blindfolded for ransom. While Haylie tries to stay alive and piece together why she ended up there, Nathan tries to clear his name and fight to get Haylie back by any means necessary. Oh, by the way: Haylie is deaf.

Nathan is selfless and caring. He risked his life to find Haylie. Some might call him rebellious; I call him heroic. I have no doubt that he would make a great firefighter. Haylie is bright and a wonderful girl despite her being deaf. She leads mostly a normal life, and Signs in the Dark does tackle some audism and other stereotypes. I liked the diversity of characters' personalities. Mr. Kingsman, the hilarious and nutty neighbor, is my favorite supporting character. Particularly with Mr. Kingsman, I enjoyed the emphasis on how people are not always how they seem- or speak, for that matter. Haylie's involvement in the local Wildlife Rescue Center was a nice touch, especially with the signing gorillas.

The plot made sense, which is sometimes a concern with mystery novels. I enjoy watching crime shows like Chicago PD and NCIS, and as far as kidnappings go Signs in the Dark portrayed the crime and the kidnappers well. However, I will say that at times it felt like information-overload, and the reader can easily interpret and come to many of the drawn-out conclusions and explanations. Never underestimate the intelligence of the reader!

Title: Signs in the Dark
Author: Susan Miura
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing
Pages: 203
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

High Spirits (Spirits Book 4) By Rob Keeley

High Spirits is the fourth book in the middle grade fantasy series Spirits. This book was sent to me by the author. Evil spirits have impersonated King Edward VIII and his girlfriend, and are bent on preventing World War II and helping Hitler. Due to Ellie's involvement in the new connection between the spirit world and mortal world, she is sent back in time again- this time, to 1936, to keep history in order. 

The educational value is strong, and I personally did not understand the significance of who Edward VIII was until now. While I did have some knowledge of the relationship between England and Germany prior to the war, it is surprising to me that the action of getting married became the pivoting factor between WWII and a Nazi-controlled Europe. For all the times Keeley could have chosen to write the book on, 1936 was a great pick to drive home how unstable history is. 

My critique is how short all the books are, especially this one in particular. The ending fight felt rushed, and I wish there was more suspense. 

I do recommend this book and look forward to reading the next, The Coming of the Spirits.

Title: High Spirits
Author: Rob Keeley

Publisher: Troubador Publishing Ltd
Pages: 129
Series: Yes, Book 4 of 5
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

The Octopus Under the Bridge by Alice Kinerk

The Octopus Under the Bridge is a middle grade dystopian book that was sent to me by the author. After American troops were deployed into the Middle East to search for missing teenagers, a bomb was dropped on the White House that decimated most of the East Coast. Since then, food is scarce, electricity is a luxury, and rival groups like the Collectivist and Phoenix fight and terrorize the populations. After the President is shot, 14-year-old Jay Everton's parents send him away to live with his grandmother on the Key Peninsula. But when Jay learns of his father's secret work and Phoenix attacking his family and friends, he must sail back to Tacoma and save his sister. 

For a book this short, I am surprised that The Octopus Under the Bridge still contained a developed plot structure with round characters! Jay is shy and intelligent, and I liked watching him gain the confidence to stand up for himself and his family. The hint of romance with Sarah was also nice. The setting is eerie and mysterious. I love the amount of imagery and other figurative devices that were used to make the setting rich and full of suspense.

I like how the book contradicted the Guilt by Association Fallacy, which unfortunately is common in times of conflict, as is assumption of good and evil. The Collectivists and the Phoenix both have major issues with the current government, but have different ideas and ways to get there- similar to the octopus and the squid. Initially I had a hard time understanding the theme and metaphor around the octopus, but further into the book it did make a lot more sense. Well, now I know that Washington is famous for octopi!

I will say that the cover definitely needs some work to convey the seriousness of the story. Never from reading the synopsis on Amazon (or the nonexistent one on goodreads) or looking at the cover did I guess that this would be an exciting dystopian book! While the ending is climatic and does conclude Jay's specific journey, I am still very curious as to what happens to the nation and Tacoma. I wish it was longer, and I hope Kinerk writes a sequel! However, the length could make it more appealing for younger readers.

I recommend this book!

Title: The Octopus Under the Bridge

Author: Alice Kinerk

Publisher: Alice Kinerk

Pages: 142

Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Heir of G.O'D. by Harper Maze

Heir of G.O'D. is a YA science fiction book that was sent to me by the publisher. After fracking caused an enormous earthquake that triggered a volcanic winter, humanity plunged into sickness and depression. Gary O’Drae then created Sol, a virtual reality world. This allows Ana, secretly blind, to see. But Drae put an expiration date in Sol, unless his child comes forward. Faced with the reality of her blindness, Ana must take extreme risks to find someone who can help her see in the real world, which puts her directly into the path of the Church of G.OD. and their mysterious intentions.

For a science fiction book, the premise is extremely realistic with the environmental disasters that fracking caused and the turn to virtual reality as a result. Heir of G.O'D. managed to be educational as well, driving home the point about the dangers of fracking and ignoring scientific warnings. There is a glossary at the end, which appeared useful at times. The description of Ana being blind was heart-wrenching, and Heir of G.O'D. shows the extreme risks one is willing to take to save their life. The ending provides an intriguing premise for the second book which would completely change their world.

It was very fast-paced, and my critique is that I wish it could have slowed down and expanded some parts. Often two or three arena battles could be covered in the same page, and I wish the most important ones could have been further described. I also wish there would have been an explanation for why the blind are persecuted, and the storyline was rather predictable. Despite these concerns, I did enjoy reading it!

I recommend this book, and I am interested in reading the next book.

If you are interested in this book, I recommend you read Warcross!

Title: Heir of G.OD.
Author: Harper Maze
Publisher: Harper Maze
Pages: 230
Series: Yes, Book 1
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

The Land of the Purple Ring by Deborah J. Natelson

Sent to me by the author, the fantasy book, The Land of the Purple Ring, is one of the most creative, witty books I have ever read! The clockwork man is held bound to Time, a slave built by the Clockmaker. But he refuses to remain a slave, and escapes, venturing on a journey across the universe to discover imagination, magic, and the strength to create a true name for himself as a living being.

The clockwork man's perspective on ordinary objects was intriguing. In fact, almost a whole page was simply him pondering types of chairs, and why many are designed for decoration and less for practicality. His confusion of the importance of eating and puzzling thoughts over men who drink until they must stumble home was refreshing. Also creative was how some of these objects were alive, like lampposts, clocks, the magical lakes of cheese and dancing shrimp. One must wonder how the author even came up with some of these bizarre elements! The names of some of the creatures in the story- like "Forsoothians"- was entertaining and curious at the least. If you read it before bed you'll have quite the interesting dreams!

The so-called "clockwork man" had a large amount of character development as he struggled to find an identity. First, he was just Boy, a slave, even taking on the name of his "father" (The Clockmaker) before discovering a true name and soul that defines him as a living being of art- not simply a manikin of clockwork. The one complaint I might have is that sometimes it felt like there was too much going on at once, and I did not see any clear stages of plot, but rather felt more as a collection of short stories.

I recommend this book!

Title: The Land of the Purple Ring
Author: Deborah J. Natleson
Publisher: Thinklings Books, LLC
Pages: 201
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

A Summer Taken (Council of Friends Book 1) by Jason Milgram

A Summer Taken is the first book in the Council of Friends series. This YA realistic fiction book was sent to me by the publisher. It is 2041, and 14-year-old Julia must return to Camp Auctus to write a speech honoring her cousin Lizzie, who was shot two summers ago shortly after leaving the camp. But Julia is still struggling with her shyness and feels lost without Lizzie beside her. This summer, Julia will find the words to express the vast range of emotions bottled inside her and find the strength to speak for change.

I enjoyed the story and Julia's character development over the course of the novel. Readers see her initially shy and reclusive, torn apart over her cousin's murder to being an inspiring force for change in gun violence laws. Milgram was skilled at depicting the stages and the complicated range of emotions one experiences while grieving a loved one, like anger, guilt, numbness, and sadness. The added element of Julia's struggle with anorexia only made it more insightful. A Summer Taken also explores common obstacles that occur in friendships. This book could teach one to become a better friend. I was impressed with the level of detail and imagery in some of the flashback scenes, and how the book still had a nice flow despite alternating from the past and present.

One of my concerns, however, would be that setting the book in 2041 was strange and somewhat distracting from the plot at hand. I understand that it draws attention to the fact that gun violence is still an issue and will still be for many decades, however there was not much in the story that made that year make sense. The only cue that it didn't take place in 2020 was one talking typewriter. I was hoping for more creative integration of the future setting.

Despite my issue with the setting, I do recommend this book! The second book, A Summer Remembered, will be released in October 2020.

Title: A Summer Taken (Council of Friends Book 1)
Author: Jason Milgram
Publisher: Gaby Triana
Pages: 129
Series: Yes, Book 1
Rating: 4 Stars
Amazon

Dwarf Story by W.W. Marplot

Dwarf Story is a middle grade fantasy book involving Welsh mythology that was sent to me by the publisher. Eastward Manor, the fairies' world of all mythical and legendary creatures, is no longer pure, but made dark and war-torn by Gwyllion, the Old Woman of the Mountains. So they gather to America, emerging to befriend the last children in the legendary ancestry line to help them defeat Gwyllion and ensure the restoration of a peaceful home for all worlds. These children include Arty, Mary, Cry, Emma, and Ted.

The writing style was unique in the sense that it writes rambling but also controlled at the same time. The reader is thrown instantly into these children's heads with their (often strange) thoughts, dozens of rhetorical questions, and one or two word sentences. When it transitions to another chapter with a new narrator, they often speak very matter-of-fact and interrupt each other, like "I am Ted. You know what’s great about me? I can get involved in any story whenever I want" or "I’d rather have Emma handle this chapter, but I couldn’t find her." This structure initially put me off a bit, but eventually this narration grew on me to be very entertaining.

This was a very funny book, and I enjoyed the author's use of creative puns like "a pain in the axe". I was extremely curious to find out how these fantasy creatures emerged into the "real world" and why this group of teens were chosen. It did take much longer than I thought to find those answers, and the book could have been shorter. But alas, I was hooked to the end. The huge battle at the end was mind-blowing and exciting. The climax was worth the wait.

I recommend this book!

Title: Dwarf Story
Author: W.W. Marplot
Publisher: Waxing Gibbous Books
Pages: 388
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Skate the Thief (The Rag and Bone Chronicles, #1) by Jeff Ayers

Skate the Thief is the first book in a YA fantasy series sent to me by the publisher. After nine-year-old Skate's parents died in a tragic fire, Skate was taken in by the criminal organization The Ink. In exchange for stealing valuable items, she is given a place to stay and food to eat. When a steal goes awry and she is discovered by the wizard Belamy, he offers her a surprising deal; she can earn a place to stay if she "borrows" books for him. He even teaches her how to read and some magical spells. However, she lies to Belamy and still works for The Ink, preparing to steal from him. But as she grows fond of Belamy, Skate must decide who is deserving of her loyalty. She must decide soon, because everyone's lives may soon be at risk.

In Skate the Thief, the setting and coincidental circumstances make Skate special, not the other way around like in many stories. The idea that anyone can practice magic, if taught, is marvelous. One doesn't have to come from a special bloodline to be able to change the color of a fireplace. That sense of equality is unique in most literature, and helps contradict the hierarchical structure of their world. The setting was unique to have magical and mythical creatures co-existing with humans, especially for the most part even aware of each other.

Skate the Thief also brings up important ethical issues and challenges the traditional beliefs of right and wrong. In Skate's case, both choices (of remaining loyal to The Ink or to Belamy) are morally wrong and right. While The Ink took her off the streets, Belamy showed her nothing but kindness, even when she didn't deserve it. While she must betray someone in the presence of many lives at stake, kindness is the most important value. While staying with Belamy, Skate evolves from a cold criminal on the streets to an girl capable of independence with a strong moral compass and the ability to care for others. Skate the Thief teaches that while loyalty and survival are important, trust and compassion are more essential forces.

The ending held a strong climax, and I enjoyed the increase in intensity. However, some of the chapters felt very information-heavy. Some chapters would just be Skate asking multiple questions and Belamy listing the answers. I feel like there could have been a way to trim down some of the background information, which was sometimes irrelevant and distracting from the plot. It is also difficult to believe that Skate is only nine- her emotional maturity puts her, in my mind, closer to thirteen or fourteen.

Despite that, I recommend you read this book! I'm excited to read the next book!

Title: Skate the Thief
Author: Jeff Ayers
Publisher: Thinklings Books, LLC
Pages: 349
Series: Yes, Book 1
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Esme's Wish (Esme Series Book 1) by Elizabeth Foster

Esme's Wish is a middle grade fantasy book that was sent to me by the author. 15-year-old Esme refuses to move on from her mother's death and accept her new stepmother, with a deep suspicion that something terrible happened to her. Esme, harboring her magical gift to look into the past, travels to the world of Esperance to find her mother. Little does she know that her gift may be the key to saving Esperance and finding the pearl that keeps their world at peace.

I enjoyed the deep thematic connections to John Steinbeck's The Pearl. Greed is one of the foundations that draw people to evil actions, and love and friendship is a major foundation and power for light and virtuous actions. The world-building was skilled and full of creative imagery that was wonderful and easy to picture. It is obvious that Foster spent a long time being thorough with all the details of the setting. The magical elements of the town were wonderful. Esme's Wish is certainly a fun, relaxing read! The hint of Greek mythology was interesting to say the least, and I liked the involvement of dragons!

Esme is a sweet, lovely protagonist who is determined to find her mother and will not let anything get in her way. As a character, what makes her unique is her devotion and love to her mother, no matter the danger. Esme's emotions are powerful, however she always manages to think clearly despite them. I will say that I wished the description of going through the portals to and from Esperance were more vivid, and with higher intensity of emotion. In addition, I wish the climax with the pearl's power at the end was more powerful.

I recommend you read this book!

I look forward to reading the second book in this series, Esme's Gift.

Title: Esme's Wish (Esme Series Book 1)
Author: Elizabeth Foster
Publisher: Odyssey Books
Pages: 252
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 2
Rating: 4 StarsGoodreads

The Boaters' Club by Deanne Baker

The Boaters' Club is a middle grade mythology book that was sent to me by the author. One day, Russian teen Matt and his friends run into Rusalka, a water zombie. Initially they hope it was just a hallucination- but when a house start catches fire and friends of theirs start losing their lives, it becomes clear that Rusalka and the monstrous mythical lizards must be stopped. Not by the police- but by Matt and his friends, Amy, Joe, and Tyler.

I enjoyed the foreshadowing, and while I could predict most of the events, it was awesome when something unexpected happened. I enjoyed learning about the Ruslka and other Russian mythology and culture, which made The Boaters' Club unique and fascinating to read. I also loved the frightening imagery of the creatures! The story was certainly terrifying at times and was very fun!

I love how each main character had extremely distinct personalities. Amy is my favorite character in the story, mostly because of Amy's involvement in commanding a scene and being a leader. She is an inspirational character and I enjoyed following her brilliant personality and her humorous, proactive approaches to troubling situations. Baba, the supernatural woman, was creepy and mystifying. I loved the wide range of emotions and character types in the story. For Matt, I was disappointed with the how his Synesthesia did not hold immense significance to the plot, and while it provided him with some internal conflict, he seemed much duller than all the other characters. However, him being the narrator with a calmer, constant temperament held the story together and allowed for more extraordinary scenes.

I recommend you read this book!

Title: The Boaters' Club
Author: Deanne Baker
Publisher: Sunbury Press
Pages: 205
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars

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Boon on the Moon by John Huddles

Boon on the Moon is a middle grade science fiction story that is perfect for younger readers who have an interest in space with a big imagination! This book was sent to me by the author. ten-year-old Byron, nicknamed "Boon" is always getting into trouble on Earth. From his wacky inventions to running away to explore caves, he is a handful to say the least. But when his family gets the chance to travel to a colony on the moon, Byron has the chance to redeem himself by using his creativity to save the world from a White Wormhole.

If you enjoyed Frozen Secrets, you'll love this read! The hypothetical scenario of this White Worm (wormhole theory, or formally known as the Einstein-Rosen bridge theory), was super fun to read about! I enjoy that despite how complicated the idea actually is, Huddles shaped this theory into a circumstance that actually seemed straightforward and rather simple to understand. Honestly, the pages explaining the creation of the White Worm should be on Wikipedia or Kids Britannica. This approach is also impressive and unexpected considering Huddles' track record with his recent film, The Philosophers, being a R-rated thriller. But that background was particularly useful for having an immense amount of suspense and excitement.

Boon on the Moon is a fun, creative read that can encourage curiosity and enthusiasm for science. Some of the plot was extremely unexpected and I enjoyed some of the similarities to The Martian. I enjoyed the conclusion of the book and how it summed up future generations nicely. Even if one is not a 10-year-old boy, I still liked the story with its heavy involvement in science. However, one complaint I have is that the emphasis of Bryon's overactive imagination sometimes made it slightly confusing for me to distinguish between reality and daydream.

I recommend that you read this book!

Title: Boon on the Moon
Author: John Huddles
Publisher: Notable Kids Publishing
Pages: 216
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
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Witch Child (Witch Child #1) by Celia Rees

Witch Child is a YA historical fiction novel with a fantasy twist. In England, 1659, teen Mary Newbury's grandmother is hung for being a witch. Mary barely escapes her grandmother's fate and hops aboard a ship for America- only to land in Salem, Massachusetts and become targeted by the Puritans. As Mary tries to blend in and become "normal", she is faced by the fact that she actually may be a true witch.

The format to make Witch Child a diary was very clever. As the writing felt so true and innocent, I was shocked to find out after googling that Mary Newbury actually did not exist. The air of mystery surrounding her was magnificent, and I love the uncertainty behind whether or not she is actually a witch. Some of the instances in which she has "powers" seem to be hasty judgements on the part of the townspeople- but then towards the end of the book I started to really believe that she does truly have magical powers. 

Something else I loved was the whole topic of the Witch Trials themselves. I enjoyed how clearly this book showcased some of the cruel attitudes of society and their stereotypes regarding outsiders. Those days were no stranger to prejudice and discrimination, and I loved those themes. There were certainly some creepy scenes near the end, and I loved the paranormal climax! The author has major talent in building suspense.

However, I did have some issues with Witch Child. In many instances the plot felt weak and at an almost boring standstill. Many themes were slightly underdeveloped. It was also difficult understand at times, and near the end, almost too bizarre. While I did enjoy the mystery of whether or not Mary is written to have powers, it made the text slightly confusing as the author's note at the end and introduction made it seem nonfiction. I think Rees could have made what genre Witch Child is more clearly.

Despite some issues, I recommend this book and I will try to read the sequel, Sorceress . 

Title: Witch Child
Author: Celia Rees
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Pages: 240
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 2
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads

Legacy (Keeper of the Lost Cities Book 8) by Shannon Messenger

Legacy is the eighth book in the middle grade fantasy series, Keeper of the Lost Cities. Sophie Foster is tired of endless secrets and is determined to uncover the truth about her family and her friends' legacies. As the Dwarves land in danger and Keefe ultimately launches headfirst into his destiny, Sophie must face that some mysteries might be better left unsolved.

My favorite element of Legacy is the involvement of more characters shown in different lights. Messenger has a true talent for world building with dozens of characters emphasized in balanced amounts of attention and value. In addition, I love how Messenger is able to shock me with plot twists and revelations that are extreme but also believable.

Stina had extremely interesting character development because now she is no longer simply a "mean girl" or an enemy but an alliance with a developing friendship. I also enjoyed the greater role of Maruca and other previously backseat characters. Keefe's mom has always been a mysterious villain in the sense of her devoted love for her son and righteous points of view, and her development and plan by the end was rather shocking. The introduction of Glimmer as a character is fascinating and mysterious, and I cannot wait to see what Messenger has in store for her in the next book!

I also really liked the further development of Sophie's inflicting ability. In addition, I am so happy that one of Sophie's genetic parents is revealed! As usual, Messenger wrote an incredible cliffhanger and I cannot wait to read the ninth book when it is released next year! I started reading this series back in seventh grade and it amazes me that in next November when the ninth book comes out I'll be in college already! This is a series I will always keep with me.

I will say that I did have a few issues- primarily the pacing. For 800 pages, the huge climactic event at the end seemed too short and fast paced while other parts, like the beginning of the book, were slow and drawn-out and had the potential to be removed. While I do have tremendously high standards for Messenger as this is my favorite series, I love some of the previous books, like Neverseen, more.

I recommend you read this book!

Read my previous reviews of books in this series here.

Title: Legacy (Keeper of the Lost Cities Book 8)
Author: Shannon Messenger
Publisher: Aladdin
Pages: 816
Series: Yes, Book 8
Rating: 4 Stars
Goodreads