5 STARS
The long path to the throne has only just begun for Aelin Galathynius. Loyalties have been broken and bought, friends have been lost and gained, and those who possess magic find themselves at odds with those who don’t. As the kingdoms of Erilea fracture around her, enemies must become allies if Aelin is to keep those she loves from falling to the dark forces poised to claim her world. With war looming on all horizons, the only chance for salvation lies in a desperate quest that may mark the end of everything Aelin holds dear. Aelin’s journey from assassin to queen has entranced millions across the globe, and this fifth installment will leave fans breathless. Will Aelin succeed in keeping her world from splintering, or will it all come crashing down? WARNING…Some mild spoilers – not too much though. And what an epic of proportions are we facing…such an amazing, heart-breaking cliff-hanger! Is Aelin really going to die? It can’t be. Can’t we have a happy soppy fairy-tale ending for peat sake!?? Another absolute epic description of vast mysterious worlds and creatures. You smell the green pastures. You reek of vile dark blood. Your bones shiver from iron teeth and nails screeching. You dance and become one with the ocean. The saltiness lingers upon your tongue as you set sail with the crew. Your thoughts and words are vulgar matching the drunkards. Love consumes your heart as their touch shatters your body. You watch in awe as the sea monsters lunge out of the water licking the sun with their arrogance. Sarah J Maas really did a superb job on description of scenery. I really don’t have a favorite character as each and every one of Aelin’s cadre snuggled deeply into my heart. Even Manon Blackbeak. What a turn of events indeed. In this installment you really get annoyed with Aelin and her lies. But in the end, you cheer for her not being able to stay mad at her. She absolutely completely crawls under your skin. So much deception and betrayal. It stings all over. Just as you thought things are heading a certain way, some character…good or evil smacks a rock in your face. You can’t keep up. It’s crazy. I loved Lorcan and Elide’s story. Who would’ve thought. But then again, as you squirm within their chemistry, Maeve comes along with her invisible leash and tears everything to bits and pieces. There’s so much I want to swoon over when it comes to Lorcan and Elide…but it will reveal spoilers which...nope, read the book! Aedion and Lysandra, another beautiful description of something brewing which might just evolve into a blossoming flower. Some may find this cliché as every character now suddenly has a love interest. However, I kind of enjoyed learning both their soft sides and obviously their monstrosity sides. No other words to describe it really. Lots and lots of killing. War has indeed peaked and we have to wait and see what happens. Lysandra became a really strong character. She’s taking full control of her shifting capabilities. One of my best scenes happened in Skulls Bay as she morphed into a Sea Dragon. She toyed with the adults and the bull. Eventually after much screaming and loud chanting from my side, Lysandra kicked their fishy butts to the deepest depths of the oceans! An epic scene indeed. It was really difficult to decide which part in the book I enjoyed best, because the whole damn book kept me on edge…literally! The part that really saddened me, as if this series was based upon real events…that’s how deeply it affected me, was when Maeve captured Aelin and let Cairn whip her. The humility and horror. It was Endovier times a thousand all over again. Especially as the Fae warriors and the rest of Aelins’ cadre, some of them, only stood by and watched their queen bleed. Again, Sarah J Maas did not hold back while delivering a superb fantasy series. Detail upon detail. Twists and turns. Pain and heartache endured. Love explored to the ends of the worlds. I’m actually quite speechless. I can’t believe I have to wait until October this year before the next book comes out. Noooo!!
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5 STARS
Her destiny awaits. But first, vengeance… Everyone Celaena Sardothien loves has been taken from her. But she’s at last returned to the empire—for vengeance, to rescue her once-glorious kingdom, and to confront the shadows of her past… She will fight for her cousin, a warrior prepared to die for her to regain her throne. She will fight for her friend, a young man trapped in an unspeakable prison. And she will fight for her people, enslaved to a brutal king and awaiting their lost queen’s triumphant return. Celaena’s epic journey has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions across the globe. This fourth volume will hold readers rapt as Celaena’s story builds to a passionate, agonizing crescendo that might just shatter her world. What can I say? Where do I possibly begin? The heartache. The bravery. The evil plans. The courage. The backstabbing. The strength. The loathing. The friendships. The thrashing and slashing. Bonds forming. Killing occurs on a permanent basis. Love blossoms. Power grows stronger – good vs. evil. Shots of adrenaline as you turn the pages. Rattling your world as you delve deeper into this fantasy world…not sure if you’ll be able to swim back up for a breath of air. No, Sarah J Maas rocks the genre of YA fantasy. So much happened within this book. The plot becoming thicker and juicier and messier and more complex and evil. The amount of detail just keeps surprising me. There is no lack or rushing when it comes to every bit of detail. A perfect escapism as the vividness of the worlds immerses you deeper as if it were you roaming the streets. Observing the luxury of some, the poverty in areas, the blood and gore, but also the beauty here and there. Each and every character within this series, they truly make this series and ‘Awesome’ story…it’s like a drug. You keep coming back for more and you can’t stay away. Aelin Ashryver Galathynius, also known as Celaena Sardothien, is seriously starting to step into her role, reclaiming her power back as Queen. What could I possibly say about this girl. She’s a mean, butt-kicking Fae female. She knows what she wants. As powerful as she may be, she really does hurt, hurt for her people especially the one’s she loves. Just as you ponder upon what action should be taken next, Aelin has already completed the act, got home and jumped into bed! So many things occurred in this book. Enemies turn into allies and allies’ kind of become selfish. I absolutely lover her relationship with Rowan. Some heated scenes, fans will go crazy for. I thought it was excellent for her to have found a ‘friend’ who is stronger than her and can eyeball her down to such an extent where she actually completely surrenders. She has met her match for sure. Although, Rowan is a bit of a cliché being this immortal handsome Fae warrior with six packs and what-not. However, we ALL love Rowan! An added bonus for me…my hubby’s name is Rowan and packed with all kinds of hotness! Yep…he’s immortal too. 😉 Manon Blackbeak…what an amazing turn of events. Can’t go into too much detail…but this is now going to be even more interesting than anticipated for. I immediately picked up she is different. Where there is supposed to be no heart…she actually does have one. As soon as she chose Abraxos...it was evident, Manon Blackbeak is going to change the witchy world. Arobynn…what a psychopath! No…something worse…I don’t know. He is down right EVIL! I shoved every possible edible food into my mouth, holding onto my wobbly knees as I read the encounter with Arobynn and Celaena. But boy-oh-boy, what a spectacular twist! Sarah J Maas…you got me! It saddens me knowing the series is nearing the end. I’ve become so fond of all the people. I could read 10 more books in this series and afterwards I’ll watch the TV series…when is that happening by the way?? Sarah J Maas…Job Well Done! Many people have asked me where I’ve been and what I’ve been up to, since my Instagram account and my Book Blog have basically stood still for a couple of weeks now.
To answer your burning question and tickle those curiosity nerves…See the picture? That’s me…all hippy and ready for more self-discovery and healing, learning and guidance. Hubby and I joined an Ayahuasca retreat on a beautiful farm. It was all cosy, since we were only about ten participants. We were yanked back to our roots as we set up tents in which we slept in for ten days. There was no hot water. Not that you needed a shower really, since the Dieta rules were, ‘No showering’, until the shaman says so. Food we were allowed to eat was extremely bland since no salt or any flavoring was allowed. And you basically could only eat small amounts for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Yes, we were all nice and smelly and reeked of fire smoke. BUT IT WAS AWESOME!!! If you would like to gain more knowledge about what the Dieta and Ayahuasca is all about, please research it for yourself as there are loads of info on these plant medicines. I don’t really want to go on about explaining the finer details as this post would be much too long and boring. However, I would love to share with you my experience… I’ve used Ayahuasca on a previous occasion with the same shaman we had this time around again. All I can tell you really is…it was SCARY and I DIED and HELL and CONFUSION and FEAR took over. But… it was all worth it. Seven hours of scary shit I endured over and over and over as if my mind was in a washing machine just simply tumbling and tumbling and tumbling and there is absolutely NO WAY of stopping it. The part where I died…YES…that is how it felt. To use more understandable terms, my Ego died and that is the part where the breakthrough and healing took place. Ancestral Amazonian tribal women sat all around me while wrapping my whole body in these huge Amazonian leaves. They cocooned my body while gently patting my back. Did this really happen…Yes, within another altered dimension of my understanding. They weren’t there in physical form, they could only enter my space as soon as I let go of my Ego and invite them in. The big message why they did this? They showed me and made me believe again, that I am worthy to be healed. I have the right to live within this experience. To learn and teach. To come back to this current trip. No, unfortunately FEAR took over this time. My Ego had me literally by my ‘cahoonas’, (since I’m a woman and not a man). Fear crippled me this time and I really was disappointed within myself. However, I did have the opportunity to receive personal healing from our shaman, Yawa Bane, whom by the way is absolutely amazing and loving. His energy simply booms out of him and affects you in such a way, whereas you have no other choice of just being yourself. Don’t try to hide. Don’t try to shy away or even be arrogant. This guy pulls out your core, shows it to you and then the choice is up to you…you going to continue your ways or start living a life of constant learning, awakening, evolving and expansion? I had Myocarditis which is inflammation of the heart due to my digestive tract being so out of whack the past few years. Doctors labelled me with all these fancy terms; Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis, Celiac Disease etc. I’m basically gluten, diary and wheat intolerant. Most chemical medications don’t work for me as it flare’s up my stomach. Ultimately, this trip played a huge factor in our lives for physical healing to take place. As I’ve mentioned, I received 30 minutes of personal heart healing where the shaman would smoke his healing pipe, blow the smoke into my heart and into my crown chakra and then the ‘gunk’ will be energetically sucked out which he spits out into a bucket. No, he doesn’t literally suck out anything. This happens on an energetic level; however, he does spit out mucus with every inhalation and then blowing. It symbolizes the healing energy entering my physical body and as the smoke attach to all the illness within my body, it then gets sucked out with a shamanic prayer and he would then spit it out into the bucket. I’ll tell you… My heart felt much lighter afterwards and it’s now been almost a month since we’re home. After a recent follow-up from the doctors, my heart dysrhythmia has become significantly less. This beautiful physical heart of mine is on the road to recovery. My gut is more stable and less achy. Things are seriously looking good health wise. On our retreat, I did drink San Pedro. Oh, my oh my. I just LOVE Papa San Pedro. Again, please feel free to google and do some research on these plant medicines. They are truly healers which come straight from Mother Gaia. Now, Papa San Pedro has always been very gentle with me. It’s true as they say, this medicine has a masculine energy, but in such a way where you actually feel safe and protected. As if being in your Father’s arms whilst you are a young boy or girl. San Pedro is more of a physical healer. I drank a small amount since I’m extremely light-weight when it comes to plant medicines. It’s an overall buzz and warm feeling. It immediately started glowing within my whole body, all the sore parts literally started glowing as if a coal, but not in an uncomfortable sense. I just knew that San Pedro pinpointed all the yucky parts which needed healing, and so healing took place. My overall experience was absolutely fantastic and so worth it. Sometimes you really need to face uncomfortable spaces in which you can find yourself. Get to know yourself. See where you thrive and where work is needed. Once again, I have come to the realization that all is not as you perceive it to be in your reality. You are an experience within this human body and it’s up to you to gather as much information for your soul to absorb, in order for you to evolve and expand. It’s all about expanding our consciousness, but never ever forget to have fun within this experience we call life upon Earth. 5 Stars
Consumed by guilt and rage, Celaena can’t bring herself to spill blood for the King of Adarlan. She must fight back… The immortal Queen will help her destroy the King – for a price. But as Celaena battles with her darkest memories and her heart breaks for a love that could never last, can she fulfill the bargain and head the almighty court of Terrasen? And who will stand with her? A clash of Kingdoms. Rather, war between worlds where Kings and Queens rule. Some seeking the ultimate power to rule the living, dead and beyond. Whereas she only wishes to be free…to free her people…all people from slavery and the wicked, cruel clutches from a grip squeezing and ruining their lives. Allies form, yet who will fight and defend, and whom will cower and succumb to the dark? Loyalties run root deep and you’re hesitant to which side will be chosen. Sides are chosen. Friendships in the most unlikely places are shaped. Bonds that serve for eternity are formed. Wicked, dark, nasty, ruthless, heartless and downright evil monsters, demons and witches roam the forests and caves. You dare not whisper their name. They smell your fear-stricken breath. I’m totally creeped out…we’re introduced to a new character…Manon. At first, I wasn’t that much interested in Manon’s story, getting to know her vile tribe with their utterly gruesome and scary iron teeth, nails and hair. However, as soon as Abraxos entered ‘the room’, I sensed an unbreakable bond forming between witch and beast… a twitch of a heartbeat where there are no hearts. It was a very interesting take, getting to know the Ironteeth Clans. You do not want to stay awake for this one! Creepy! Getting to know Maeve and of course, the prince that’s blood bound to Maeve as her servant, Rowan Whitethorn. Let’s just say it out loud… We loathe Maeve. We cringed when it came to Rowan’s ‘methods’, but we love him anyway. 😊 Back at the Glass Castle, a new character also has been introduced, Aedion Ashryver. I just love me some twists and turns! I can’t let out any more than that at this time. Rather read the book. Dorian and Chaol…I feel so bad for them! Especially for Chaol. He is really turning around as a character we’re starting to understand more deeply than before and the more you get to know him, why he is doing what he does…reasons behind his reasoning and actions…it really sucks being him! He is seriously suffering…okay – too much said already. The King, you just wait and see, you...you..evil..evil..man. Celaena – kick his butt to hell and burn the locks girl! This is going to be sooo interesting. So freakin much happens in this book. You think you’ve just hit rock bottom and then reached the plot’s climax – OH NO! This book is filled with so much laughter, sadness, horror, action and much more. I really am trying to refrain from giving out any spoilers. I think I’ve enjoyed this book the most thus far. However, all the books are pretty amazing, lures you in and you’re stuck like a magnet, not wanting to anywhere other than nose in the book. You hold your breath when characters encounter danger. You laugh out loud at their goofy and smirky comments. You cry and hurt with them, feeling their pain. And when you think Celaena has had her ass kicked around enough, you want to throttle Rowan and make him squirm a bit. We get to really delve deep into Celaena’s past ten years ago. It really solidifies so much unexplained behaviors she portrays. I can really go on and on about this book. You know what, get yourself the series. I’m hooked for sure! 5 STARS
Eighteen-year-old Celaena Sardothien is bold, daring and beautiful – the perfect seductress and the greatest assassin her world has ever known. But though she won the King's contest and became his champion, Celaena has been granted neither her liberty nor the freedom to follow her heart. The slavery of the suffocating salt mines of Endovier that scarred her past is nothing compared to a life bound to her darkest enemy, a king whose rule is so dark and evil it is near impossible to defy. Celaena faces a choice that is tearing her heart to pieces: kill in cold blood for a man she hates, or risk sentencing those she loves to death. Celaena must decide what she will fight for: survival, love or the future of a kingdom. Because an assassin cannot have it all . . . And trying to may just destroy her. Good Lord…where do I even begin? I’m still catching my breath from all the assassination going on. Can we give a hand of applause and rate this book 6 STARS please? Yes, that’s how much I enjoyed this story. The plot thickens thoroughly. More mystery and misery. More complicated relationships. More heartache and sorrow. And do I even dare touch the political stickiness going on. My word! I’m very much intrigued to find out what master evil awaits us. Just as I thought…okay…I predict this and that, this twist happens gutting out your insides and you’re not quite sure if you love or hate it. However, so far, The Throne of Glass series has had me on my toes, guessing and guessing and trying to predict the outcome…NONE! Twists galore. I now, more than before, understand our female lead, Celaena. She cares so deeply. Loves so deeply. But man...do not stand in this girl’s way. Just as you think…okay...cut her some slack, give the woman a rest will you…Nope! Someone she loves will be ripped apart and that viciousness that completely consumes her…it’s scary stuff. At times I kind of cringed with Celaena’s methods of ‘getting rid of a particular enemy’. The passion runs root deep within her and even if she doesn’t completely realize it yet…that is what drives her forward. Her survival instinct kicking in full throttle. I wasn’t completely taken with Dorian’s charm. I will admit, I was relieved when Celaena ended things between them. But I will confess, with Dorian’s newly found discovery…this is going to be quite a journey as we discover who/what he is and ultimately the why’s of his purpose in all of this. Nehemia…can I just please finish wiping my nose and the tears thereof? Whyyyyyyy? ☹ I was devastated for Celaena’s part. And the graphic description…now I’ll have nightmares for quite some time. Do you really get such monstrosities out there? To be honest…I think so. I’m refraining from giving out any spoilers. Read the book and cry with me. Chaol…Chaol…Chaol. A devoted and loyal Captain of the guard. At times his loyalties and properness or eagerness towards his…twisted King really caused me wanting to punch him in the face. Can we open a portal here please, let me just get my fist into these pages! But I absolutely LOVED how his and Celaena’s chemistry thickened. They truly had a friendship and the slow build-up of their relationship blossoming and ultimately…I…I…I just can’t say it. Am I team Chaol and Celaena? I don’t know yet. Let’s see. My heart does ache for them both though. And you know what, Chaol still has this mystery surrounding him of which you’re not quite sure what he’ll do next or react. Where does his loyalties lie? Guess we’re gonna find out. There are a couple of things I for sure didn’t expect in this book. I love the unpredictability. You think the story can’t get any better, I think we are in for a huge surprise! 4 Stars
In a land without magic, where the king rules with an iron hand, an assassin is summoned to the castle. She comes not to kill the king, but to win her freedom. If she defeats twenty-three killers, thieves, and warriors in a competition, she is released from prison to serve as the king's champion. Her name is Celaena Sardothien. The Crown Prince will provoke her. The Captain of the Guard will protect her. But something evil dwells in the castle of glass--and it's there to kill. When her competitors start dying one by one, Celaena's fight for freedom becomes a fight for survival, and a desperate quest to root out the evil before it destroys her world. I really staggered between 4 and 5 stars with this book. Ultimately, I opted for 4 stars due to a few things I’ll discuss later. However, don’t fret…we are talking about ‘The’ Sarah J Maas. She simply does not fail in delivering. A very strong female lead…Celaena Sardothien. The protagonist who is the deadliest assassin…but hey…she actually has a heart. An added bonus, she loves pretty clothes and jewels and parties! Some would dismay this as a bad character move. I really beg to differ. This in fact makes her story so much more worth reading. We really get to delve deep into Celeana’s history a bit; her fears, thoughts, likes and dislikes. An undertone of childish behavior, yet that sassy, witty and lethal assassin lurks around the corner with no intention of backing out! She’s smart, brave and courageous. Simultaneously, barely a child…wanting, needing a hint of normalcy in her life. Sarah J Maas takes us on an adventurous fantasy ride filled with clever political intrigue, rich in history and landscapes filled with mystery we only dare to put our toes upon. There is a hint of a love triangle, but tends to navigate more towards a trio of becoming friends, rather than being intimate. Dorian in my opinion was a bit daft and took advantage…thinking he is royalty and can get what he sets his eyes upon. However, I really started enjoying their witty playfulness with one another. Won’t go into details, I don’t want to spoil anything. I just do hope Dorian will rise way above his father’s shadow…silencing that…King…forever!! Chaol. He knows his place and sticks to it. Yet, he is in serious denial and refrains from ever thinking of Celaena in ‘that’ way, after all, she IS an assassin. But I really loved how their story played out. I’m sure we’ll see a lot more of Chaol…I hope. After reading the explosive Assassin’s Blade first and then diving into Throne of Glass, it felt a bit slow. Draggy at times. I will admit, I stumbled a bit on the fact that I got use to this bad-ass heroine, her then finally leaving with Sam…ultimately being betrayed in the worst possible way and then rotting in Endovier. Suddenly she gets swept off to become the King’s Champion. But as the story progresses…it’s all swooning and pretty dresses, candy and flirting. Only now and then will we catch a whiff of Celaena and realize…okay…phew…it’s still the same gal peeps. So that did throw me off a bit, however I was very much tempted rating this book 5 stars. Ultimately decided upon 4 stars. I’m really looking forward to Crown of Midnight. I’m sweating here as I have NO idea how Celaena will pull off doing the King’s dirty work for him. After all, how far would you go to get back your freedom? Thus far, it’s a gripping fantasy tale filled with betrayal at its core and an underlying story-line I can’t wait to unravel. 5 Stars
Celaena Sardothien is her kingdom's most feared assassin. Though she works for the powerful and ruthless Assassin's Guild, Celaena yields to no one and trusts only her fellow killer for hire, Sam. When Celaena's scheming master, Arobynn Hamel, dispatches her on missions that take her from remote islands to hostile deserts, she finds herself acting independently of his wishes-and questioning her own allegiance. Along the way, she makes friends and enemies alike, and discovers that she feels far more for Sam than just friendship. But by defying Arobynn's orders, Celaena risks unimaginable punishment, and with Sam by her side, he is in danger, too. They will have to risk it all if they hope to escape Arobynn's clutches-and if they fail, they'll lose not just a chance at freedom, but their lives . . . A prequel to Throne of Glass, this collection of five novellas offers readers a deeper look into the history of this cunning assassin and her enthralling-and deadly-world. Included in this volume: The Assassin and the Pirate Lord The Assassin and the Healer The Assassin and the Desert The Assassin and the Underworld The Assassin and the Empire **This review may contain spoilers… Except for some classics I really adore, never have I again come across a book I enjoyed this much. You would wonder…Why? How come? Much hype has been made over Sarah J Maas’s Throne of Glass series. I usually don’t fall for such hype, due to the fact that things overall have become much perverted and bad novel writing these days are best sellers. It’s the second time I reread The Assassin’s Blade book and I’ll tell ya…it’s really worth it reading certain books twice. You tend to miss detail and emotions you didn’t pick up on before. Let me first make a fuss about a few things that truly drew me into the world of Celaena Sardothien… World Building – Holy Moly…I absolutely LOVE Sarah J Maas’s world building. Eloquent and sophisticated and just simply freaking bad-ass if you ask me!! No getting past that. This book consists out of five novellas. ALL of them are extremely addictive and so finger-lickin good…it hurts my eyes man! Which novella is the best? ALL of them! They fit perfectly into this giant Assassin puzzle which leaves you drooling for more. You can’t help yourself…You have to turn each page and devour each word extremely slowly. The action…suspense…thrilling adventure and of course build up of romance that breaks your heart into a million pieces. No…not in a good way. Sorry. The plot thickens and is explosive. Reaching climax over and over just as you think you have a second to exhale…no…you keep inhaling and need to hold your breath as Celaena crouches into position awaiting her prey. Celaena Sardothien…what an incredible bad-ass, smart, witty, bitchy, epic horrific assassin! To top it off, she has the looks and elegance. We have a sixteen-year-old girl, severely toughened up or rather roughened up… She has a past we don’t yet get to explore. She is a loyal, devoted puppy when it comes to Arobynn. A love and hate relationship. However, the inexcusable and unforgiving act this guy pulled off…just because he has controlling issues due to his own sick past… At this stage…Arobynn needs to watch his back…not from enemies or even Celaena’s much deserved revenge…not that revenge EVER takes away the pain or brings closure…but he needs to watch his back, because I’m gonna hunt him down and…and…sit on him…and…uhm…give Celaena the go-ahead to end his wonderful glamorous life…? Celaena’s character just keeps growing and she encompasses so much power she is yet to discover. On the other hand, she had to kill and doing so in unthinkable ways. She had to endure years and years beyond her own years, worth of pain. She had to really grow up in such a short time period since she is only seventeen years old. It’s hard to even fathom what she had to do and endure…the pain, guilt, regret and above all of this, she still shows us that she does have a heart. She is only human. Within your own reality to keep your head above water, she had to do what she felt she needed to do. To achieve a certain amount of respect and status, she needed to be the best at what she does. Now please…we are talking about a fictional fantasy novel here. In no way am I encouraging any real human being to become the next best assassin in real life. Please people…we are talking about fictional characters. They aren’t real. No matter how real we wish they could be…put away those fancy tailored assassin suits, boots and blades and daggers! Phew…that out of the way…let’s continue… Sam Cortland. I actually didn’t expect this one. As fierce as his opponent, Celaena. I had my suspicions here and there, but author, Sarah J Maas carefully interwove every bit of detail without spilling any beans. No predictions here folks, too many twists and turns! Sam is as tough as nails. Yet, I sensed his softer side quite early in the beginning. He didn’t encompass so much hate and anger as Celaena did. I take my hat off for this guy…to withstand and withdraw his emotions he felt towards Arobynn…this guy has nerves of steel. All because he wanted to…needed to…protect Celaena. And then he met his fate…horribly horrifying sadness. That is truly what I can tell ya. This poor poor bloke did not deserve such a fate. Man…if he were real, my heart would’ve been shattered only to never be mended ever again. Sara J Maas did a superb job at filling every single void we readers might have felt. So much detail. Action, plot and climaxes never-ending…if that makes any sense. I’m really looking forward to Throne of Glass. The soft cover is beautiful; however, this series deserves a hardcover spot on my bookshelf. I can sense this is a series I’ll reread even when I’m 80-years-old and lookin for an “Oomph’ at such a young age. 3 Stars
How much can you hide? Jemima Hutton is determined to build a successful new life and keep her past a dark secret. Trouble is, her jewellery business looks set to fail - until enigmatic Ben Davies offers to stock her handmade belt buckles in his guitar shop and things start looking up, on all fronts. But Ben has secrets too. When Jemima finds out he used to be the front man of hugely successful Indie rock band Willow Down, she wants to know more. Why did he desert the band on their US tour? Why is he now a semi-recluse? And the curiosity is mutual - which means that her own secret is no longer safe ... I bought this book sometime during 2014. The cover was cute, and the story did stir curiosity within me. I started reading it and lost interest before I reached half of the book. For me, a book really needs to grab the reader’s attention and interest from page 1 until the end. However, I did struggle with this read. From the beginning I could pick up on predictability, too cliché and your typical heroine and hero romance. Jemima, the heroine in her own life, and written in 1st POV. Your typical gorgeous girl with a past to run as far away as possible…hell…you need to run girl…that kind of past…Most of her turmoil played off within her head. Angst, fear and flight mode kicking in every time someone came too close. She was likable, witty and the almost perfect friend. However, her story lacked. It felt like there could’ve been more story, more detail. Her heroism kind of lacked real power. It was a bit rushed. Even the part, where she finally came clean on her part…it came way too fast and ended way to fast. I already forgot what her past was about…and that’s sort of a part that really needs to stand out, so we can sense where her growth took place and when she became this heroine powerhouse…which in fact did not happen. It was all too quick. Ben…celebrity gone bad, fled the scene and disappeared for no-one to ever find the truth, or in this case, finding him. But we all know how this usually turns out. I felt Ben, the hero…his character was much more powerful. A connection sparked, me really feeling his pain, hurt, fear and anxiety. At times his character was a real powerhouse, a bit too strong for the lead character, being Jemima. However, the character combination somehow worked. Saskia…the evil villain went at it well. I could taste the sourness and smell the disgust I felt towards this woman…a character living up to our expectancy of a real bitchy villain. However, nearing the end and coming to conclusion why she was this way…it fell flat. A strong character lead, gone completely soft which for me did not fit within this scenario which played off. As if an alternative ending or ‘her reasons’ could’ve been different. The story overall in this section started off great, but lost track in my opinion. Now I simply regard her as a weak character. Rosie…a sweet sweet single mother trying to find her own two feet, never mind finding her own way. The twist in the end was a bit… ‘Huh? Okay…’ More detail again could’ve been added. Rosie’s ending was weak and strange. Yes, things like this happen, but for some reason it simply did not fit into this story-line for me. The plot only really started picking up nearing the end. All the twists which I did not expect…that was interesting. I’m trying hard not to give out any spoilers. I really enjoyed each character’s dirty/painful secret and how it caught you by surprise never to think that was possible. A real ‘Oh my word’ moment. Quite a few actually. I’m rating this book 3 stars. The story could’ve been better. Lack of volume if I may, rushing over important details. The whole book felt a bit rushed and I really would’ve enjoyed it if it weren’t for the above. When a character is in turmoil, you really need to dive into details as to why. Make the reader believe as to why the character is the way he/she is. In this case, details were rushed, and focus was placed upon irrelevant details which didn’t need attention. If this makes sense at all. Now for the big question…will I read anything else from the author, Jane Lovering? Of course, I will. She really pulls you in. Her stories are interesting, and I really want to give her another change before judging too harshly. This story wasn’t awful. Don’t get me wrong. In my opinion as a reader, it lacked here and there. But I will most definitely pick up her other novels and see what she has to offer. 5 STARS
this is the journey of surviving through poetry this is the blood sweat tears of twenty-one years this is my heart in your hands this is the hurting the loving the breaking the healing -rupi kaur How does one respond in a non-cliché manner to such a person who endured such hurting, loving, breaking and healing? How does one resonate with such hatred, pain, anger and darkness when you know nothing of what that given person had to witness and endure? This writing. This heart on a platter. This tear dripping from our hands as we turn each page. When you read something as raw as this…what are your thoughts? How do you feel? Could you relate in any way? Did you manage to sympathize? These are all questions, emotions and responses that swam in my head when I read the book and related to every single page. As with many, too many in fact, other woman in the world…we know what it is to be violated, spat out with our bare bones exposed, hurt…our hearts ripped out of our chest. The abused who ultimately becomes the abuser. In the end, all you long for, crave and need is that one touch which will make you whole again. But that touch will never come. Because it is not the other who makes us whole, instead it is recognizing that it is us who make ourselves whole and then ultimately heals. It’s strange to have read this book at this exact moment in my life. If I had read the book a few months ago, I would have told you exactly how I managed to relate to Rupi Kaur. You see, I know what it feels like staring into the predator’s eye, hungry for a child’s flesh…only to rip her open and devour every single piece. I know what it feels like to long for a father who was never to begin with. Instead he created his own bubble with his new wife and children…leaving me out of the equation. I know what it feels like to be hunted by those who crave only our tears, screams and sweat. When they finished absorbing our energy, they spat us out like fish bones, exposed to the heat of the scorching sun. I know what it is to have an alcoholic parent… a mother…who betrayed my love…she was suppose to protect me in every single way, instead she left me for the wolves. I know what it feels like to have been the abused becoming the abuser…ripping out another heart…not feeling much. Why should I care… But you see, I’ve searched for myself for many years. Yearned for healing. Longed for love. Needed to become whole again. And I found myself. I now know that that girl wasn’t me. That which was, did not define me. I needed to experience all of that, just as Rupi Kaur had to, for we grew stronger and learned valuable lessons and getting to know ourselves…how strong we truly are. It’s the first time I’ve read such poetry that truly resonated with me on every single level. It was me she was writing about. I became one with Rupi Kaur. But the most beautiful thing in life has and always will be…we have a choice. We always had a choice. Do you choose the path of destruction? Or do you choose the path of reconciliation and healing? We constantly are given choices, in fact, on a daily base are we given a choice. Left, or right? Onward or backward? As Rupi Kaur so beautifully depicts, she chose to move onward. She chose to rise above the horizon and touch the moon. She chose to bathe her heart within the drops of the rain. Our scars may still be visible on the surface. But we wear them proudly. Because within our hearts, we nurture the seedlings of love, light and peace. Let me first apologize for being absent for quite some time now.
Usually when it comes to blogs, reviews and being social-media active…there is this expectancy vibe floating around that we who write, review and create an online presence, that we do not have a life other than sitting in front of our laptops, books and social media apps. But that is where the misconception hides…You see, we do have a private life other than nose-in-the-book and being socially hungry. It all comes down to the individual, what he/she wants for himself and why he/she is creating an online presence. All of us are unique and different and do things our own way. That is indeed the beauty of free will. I chose to create an online presence for myself. Not to become the next best blogger in town. Neither to become socially famous. I chose to review books, read books, create a small space on Facebook and Instagram, because I enjoy reading, writing and creating…and of course to share it with those who may be interested. With that small intro and explanation, let me share with you a little as to where I’ve been the past few weeks. As a toddler and very young girl, straight through to my teens, I witnessed and endured hell. No need to elaborate as every individual has his/her own story. As a young adult; confusion, hatred and fear consumed me whereas it ruled every fiber within me. As a wife and mother, for the first time, healing started taking place in all areas, but at a very slow pace. All gratitude energy flows to my husband for this, as he was the one who broke down my walls brick by brick and helped me realize I can actually heal. It wasn’t easy though. I then entered my thirties. A time where that nudging feeling grew stronger of... “This life as we know it, living it…this can’t be it. There is more. I know it. I feel it.” However, my stubbornness and constantly living-in-the-future mindset…I drove myself freakin crazy and created this web of fear in which I fell for…my own trap. The warnings were heard. Guidance was accepted. Love and healing was absorbed. Yet, my EGO just didn’t turn the hell OFF. What is it with our monkey brains that keep taking control? You realize as an individual, which road, idea or turn to take in certain circumstances. You know the consequences of each and every decision you make. Still, knowing, I really struggled to turn off my mind for one bit and really feeling clarity within. Until I found Ayahuasca. The whole Ayahuasca ‘thing’ belonged to my husband as he is a psychonaut. In a positive way. He researches these subjects in-depth, test it if possible and then tell us all about his ventures and experiences. Now, if there is a person in need of deep-core-healing…I vouch for my hubby. And after all, he deserves drinking the ancestral medicine at a first go, since he is the one who introduced us to it. Within three weeks, my life as I thought I knew it, flip-flopped 180 degrees. Not quite sure what happened, but my ticket was booked and bags packed. I’m on my way to my very first Ayahuasca retreat ever. Minor details of why and how is quite irrelevant. Fast forward 7 days… Due to unforeseen circumstances, I had to cut my trip short. However, I did have the privilege to experience a single Ayahuasca ceremony which by the way lasted for seven hours. The shaman said it was an incredibly powerful ceremony and much deep healing took place. I also drank San Pedro twice…of which I couldn’t stop crying for two days by the way! The only thing that I can say… “I literally died over and over and over during those seven hours. Just as I was about to give in, utter bliss, gratitude and love consumed me”. You want to know details? Go on an Ayahuasca ceremony…find out your own story. It is absolutely terrifying and magnificent and so freakin worth every penny, tear and blood that has been shed. So, I returned home…Weeks passed and I met people who even more so changed my life. During the past few weeks, I’ve got to know myself internally. I’m not this fragile weakling. All the obstacles and challenges I had to face was placed before me, so that I could grow spiritually, open my eyes and really observe life, and to ultimately realize that I am not who I think I am. I am an essence, part of the collective consciousness experiencing a human existence within a human body. All of us are a drop of ocean within the vastness of consciousness. I chose to be here, face things I had to face, learn what I have come to learn and grow, to enter the next level. I’ve realized that I have never been alone. I was never an outcast. It was only created by my perception of energies that surrounded me of which I absorbed and thought and believed the false deception in front of me, around me and within me. I’ve realized that I am loved. I can love. I am love. I’ve realized that I do have a home of which I so craved for, longed for…my ancestral family has always been there. My teachers, healers, guides and protectors have always been with me. I simply resonated at a different vibrational level whereas I could never feel them, experience them. I have lived many many lives. I have endured much pain and seen darkness. But for once, I managed to break through the web of lies and deception. I’ve pushed through and now acknowledge my place within this space in this 3D world. Never again will I be silent. I will speak my truth coming straight from my heart. I will cherish my human body. Feed it with high vibrational energy we call food which we need to sustain ourselves. I will surround myself with love, light and peace. Lower vibrational energies I will pull into my space, only to lift their spirits and make them realize…You are not who you think you are. I will help you see the light, experience the love and feel utter peace. Allow me to share a very special and powerful message with you. After all, I am a Messenger… Do not be afraid of the dark. Do not be afraid of the unknown. Get out of your comfort zone and explore your heart. Do not let your monkey brain silence you. Do not let your Ego rule you. Explore new ventures and feel what is right from within your heart. Walking this path has never been easy. Find the Warrior within you… I am a Warrior My scars are battle scars I wear them proudly I am not ashamed of them I am a Warrior Trauma I had to experience in my life, happened to this body These were the challenges my soul chose to learn and evolve from I am not scared anymore I embrace every memory I embrace my power within I am a Warrior I can now freely share my story I can now motivate and encourage others I can help those to climb out of their own created web I can let them feel the rain on their skin I can let them touch the rays of the sun and feel the heat I am a Warrior My scars are battle scars I wear them proudly I am not ashamed of them I am a Warrior 5 STARS
Juliet Young has always written letters to her mother. Even after her mother’s death, she leaves letters at her grave. It’s the only thing that helps Juliet cope. Declan Murphy is the kind of tough guy you wouldn’t want to cross. But while on community service doing landscaping at the local cemetery, he is haunted by ghosts of his own past. When Declan finds a letter left beside a grave, he can’t resist writing back. Soon, he is sharing his pain with a perfect stranger…Except they’re not strangers, and when real life interferes with their secret life of letters, Juliet and Declan discover truths that might tear them apart. Let’s start off by talking about the cover. Beautiful, isn’t it? A captivating cover really adds to the emotion of any book. It took me a few days to finally be able to write this review. I had to really process what was going on. This was truly not a plot driven book, instead a character driven read which was captivating and emotional to read. You read stories every other day and it’s a perfect moment where you are entertained…just like watching a movie or your favorite TV series. But then every once in a while, you pick up a book and it truly grabs you. Reels you in, tumbles your emotions, swings you around on one of those swing roller-coaster rides and then eventually spits you out leaving you expose…naked like fish bones… At the end of the day, 90% of novels are simple fiction and on the market to entertain. However, there will always be someone who can relate no matter how unusual or weird. In this case I can relate completely with Juliet and Declan. I’ve experienced both their worlds in my own life. Juliet suffers. She’s completely drowning within her emotions of heartbreak and guilt. She wants to be normal, but no longer know how that feels. She’s lost all sense of who she was and where she’s headed. Losing her mother crippled her and the only coping method she found was writing her deceased mother letters. Declan. Retracted completely from the age of 13. What else was he supposed to do? No-one else cared to figure him out. Instead they themselves created this wash-out persona of whom he is. Instead, internally he was screaming and crying out for help and guidance and forgiveness…but to whom? Nobody listened. Everyone only judged and dismissed him, accepting his front he put forth. Until he saw that letter and found salvation within time. Rev was such an excellent friend to Declan. Even though he struggled immensely with his own demons of his past, he still managed to hang onto Declan without suffocating him in any way. I would love to read his own story though. I despised Declan’s mother and Alan. Who I disliked more is still up for debate as both of them are despicable in their own way. I’ve experienced people just like this, so in no way did the author exaggerate or suck emotions and behaviors out of her thumb. And I think therefore the story touched me so immensely to a point that I had to evaluate my own feelings after I read this story. Nor Juliet or Declan showed any signs of those typical energy-vampire characters where they seem like your typical victims or poorly written heroes. No, these characters were faced with severe intense emotions of which they had no idea of how to cope with it. I don’t want to give out any spoilers. If you have a strong cup of coffee near and you feel brave to literally dive into and intense emotional gut-wrenching story…read this book. A story that will stay with me for a very long time. 5 STARS
A witch’s curse. A world-ending prophecy. A daring rescue mission. On the run from the Guild of Guardians, Calla Larkenwood and her team of fellow outlaws plan a daring rescue operation into the Seelie Court itself. As if that isn’t enough to keep them busy, the power-hungry Princess Angelica has begun preparations for a horrifying prophesied spell that will forever change both the magic and non-magic realms. When Calla is blindsided by an unspeakable tragedy before the rescue can be carried out, she struggles to remain focused on her mission. She believes she’s reached her lowest point – until a witch reveals the final blow: she has cursed Calla’s magic. With time running out, can Calla save the one she loves and stop the prophecy from being carried out before the curse claims her life? 5 Stars simply doesn’t suffice for this read. Really, I haven’t been so utterly satisfied by reading a book filled with so much intensity, heart-throbbing aches and pains, suffocating grief, serious kick – ass scenes and a love that completely consumes you. This is truly a story of forgiveness and redemption. The plot simply just fit into the perfect puzzle where everything came together and solidified to such an extent of utter blissfulness. Maybe I’m just cliché like that…I want to be introduced to the protagonist and the antagonist. I want to see and most importantly feel their struggles and challenges. Your typical Problem-Reaction-Solution theory where the author completely pulls in the reader, messes with our minds, takes us on an exhausting thrilling ride and spitting us out like fish bones. We the readers, simply gaze up into the sky with our heads flat against the surface. We may feel like crap enduring so much heartache and grief, anger and frustration, confusion and happiness. However, we simply lay on the ground outstretched and in utter bliss, because we got to witness the good, the bad and the ugly. Book Six carved everything into stone for me as the reader. I could FEEL Calla’s guilt and her pain. She and Chase are perfect for one another as both, kind of went through something similar yet completely different. They understand what the other one must endure and why they experience the feelings they do. I’m really trying not to give away any spoilers here. Ryn and Vi…I have NO words for what they were put through as characters. Rachel Morgan did an absolute perfect job in stabbing that knife deep into our hearts and slowly twisting it with the intention…never to stop. Read the book and you’ll know what I’m referring to…a lump in my throat with tears running down my cheeks. That’s how much it hurt and this is exactly what an author aspires to. To create long lasting memories that will haunt the reader long after the book has been put down. It was great to see how many evil characters came together in the end and tried to redeem themselves by saving the innocent or at least trying to do good. Book Six was truly filled with so much going on. Emotions that felt like your heart can’t possibly bear any more pain. Emotions that hurdled towards anger as if you were the one fighting against the bad guy. Emotions that soothed my Ego to such an extent where I truly felt satisfied and happy to pack away the book with a broad smile upon my face and knowing… ‘Justice has been served. Fate has won. Love does prevail.’ Since this series consists out of 9 books in total (3 books per character); in other words, Book 1-3 was Ryn and Vi’s story. Book 4-6 was Chase and Calla’s story. Apparently Book 7-9 will be about The Glass Faerie who I haven’t met yet. I do have Book 7 with me. Book 8 was only released a few days ago and I presume Book 9 will hopefully be released later this year. However, I’m one of those readers, when I start reading a series, I wait until ALL books have been released before I delve into it. (Yep…The Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas is patiently awaiting on my shelf as I’m still waiting for Tower of Dawn to be delivered. I haven’t read any of her books yet…so I’m excited to begin). So, I’m going to wait until Book 9 has been released before I conclude the Creepy Hollow Series as done. Again, I’m really refraining from giving away any details with this book. If you haven’t delved into the Creepy Hollow series yet, do yourself a favor…it’s something different. A unique read/series which I really enjoyed. A clean read, no profound language used. Rachel Morgan has really done an excellent job creating all these complex characters who really struggle, but within their own way and time, they sort of become the hero in their lives. Leave a comment, don’t be shy and tell me your thoughts. 5 Stars
Someone is killing guardians... Still reeling from a shocking revelation, guardian trainee Calla Larkenwood finds the threads of her world unraveling further when she's accused of a horrifying crime she didn't commit: A deadly magical disease has entered the Guild, threatening to wipe out every guardian--and someone is intent on framing Calla for it. With the Guild Council focusing their investigation on her instead of searching for the real criminal, Calla watches her dream of becoming a guardian rapidly slipping away. Time is running out. As the lines between good and bad, right and wrong, begin to blur, whom can she turn to for help? Not sure if I should contain myself or rather jump up and down, fist-punching the air...doing a twirly-wirly and screaming out loud... “Hell yeah!” This book was absolutely AMAZING!! From start to end. It was amazing. Sorry Ryn and vi...but please step aside...It’s Chase and Calla time!!! Damn, did I enjoy this book. Action packed galore. Every second page I turned, my stomach was in knots not knowing what was about to happen next. Calla Larkenwood...such a powerful heroine in her own way. She really developed beautifully. I love her witty, sassy side jumping out now and then. Courageous, brave and strong. She’s got some serious nerves of steel. She’s handled every situation with much caution, yet simultaneously she’ll rethink each step and act accordingly or appropriately. Not once did she backtrack from Saskia, nor her trainer from hell...Olive. Oh yes...my blood boils when it comes to Olive...Saskia we all can handle. Typically, that spoilt, arrogant character we all meet at some stage in our lives. But Olive...my toes curl...not in a good way! When you face characters, who seem to have all that control over you and there is not a damn thing you can do about it! Oh Olive, I’m vouching for some serious ass-kicking scenes...Calla...you better hear me! That woman can’t treat you that way! Okay...ranting over. 😉 Chase, I so did not see this coming. Author, Rachel Morgan, you sure had all fans and readers flabbergasted with this twist!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH. We love you for this. Remember how I mentioned in my review, I think it was book 2 or 3’s book review...how I simply couldn’t place Nate. He was such a mystery and in all honesty, such a weak character in the beginning...that was my opinion. But damn, did I take a 360-degree flip-flop on this one! Everything makes sense now. These books seriously get better as you progress through the series. Do I still despise him or has he won my vote for... “Come on? Everybody makes mistakes...right?” ...kind of attitude change. Yes, he has won my vote. I forgive you Chase! (Please any fans out there, don’t throw a banana peel at my head! Come on...we all forgive him...right?) Chase has really developed and we get to see a completely different side. Unfortunate that he has a mother from hell and is surrounded by so many evil influences, however he really redeemed himself. He’s fighting his way through all the darkness and misery he created, but he doesn’t stop. He needs to make things right. Chase and Calla...I love them together. It’s not your typical romance swooning scene where the heroine falls into the hero or then rather the villain’s arms and it’s happy ever after. No way! These two are electrifying together. Calla let Chase know exactly who he is, what he did, how he disappointed her and so much more. She refuses to step back. Now it’s kind of a relationship where she finds herself as the second fugitive...she was responsible for so many things in her own way as well, how could she be better in any way than Chase – her own feelings. She takes full responsibility for her own actions and I really like that. I do feel extremely sorry for her though. Gaius...he is adorable and I love me some Gaius. I LOVED this character. He is that feel good character. You had a terrible day...go to Gaius. You need some serious help magic or potion wise...go to Gaius. You want a good laugh...go to Gaius. I had such a good laugh-out-loud moment when Calla was practicing her Griffin ability with Gaius and she made a HUGE bagel rolling towards him. And he does love his bagels! Read the book and you’ll know what I’m talking about. It was funny okay... Zed Zed Zed! This guy had trouble around him which I sniffed out since the beginning. AND WAS I RIGHT OR WHAT! My heart plummeted, my breathing accelerated and my stomach turned upside down when he got hold of Calla. I’m so not going to spoil this scene here. I just let out an extremely loud sigh of relief when...READ THE BOOK. The author, Rachel Morgan’s, world building has really started to sink in and she has created this believable world where one feels you want to find and explore. Calla and Chase have become incredibly believable characters. Emotions run deep. Their pain cuts you like a knife. You really get sucked into each scene where you feel so much part of as if you were there. I’m really excited to get started with Book Six. Rescue mission impossible...here we come! 4 Stars
Everyone has secrets. Calla Larkenwood wants nothing more than to be a guardian, but her overprotective mother has never allowed it. Battling fae creatures is too dangerous a job for a young girl, and there’s that pesky magical ability she needs to keep hidden from the Guild. How can she do that if she’s working right under their nose? When circumstances change and Calla finally gets to follow her dream, she discovers guardian trainee life isn’t all she hoped it would be. Her classmates are distant, her mentor hates her, and keeping her ability, a secret is harder than she thought. Then an Underground initiation game goes wrong, landing Calla with a new magical ability she can’t control. She needs help – and the only way to get it is by bargaining with the guy who just discovered her biggest secret. I am utterly confused and horrified. I’ve been smacked in the face with something really icy and confusing and horrifying! What the hell just happened What an amazing freakin cliff-hanger! Calla is definitely sassy, though determined. She knows what she wants and she works damn hard for it. Her character developed beautifully and I really started growing fond of her. She’s tough and no matter what comes her way, she won’t back down and she goes full throttle forward in achieving her goals, even if fear does creep in now and then. I did struggle with the first part of the book. It was a bit slow. It did give you a nice background and much depth of who is who and what’s going on, but I felt it was a bit slow at times. I think what bothered me the most was the total transition from Vi and Ryn to Calla. I just struggled to get into Calla’s character at first after such a powerhouse couple, Vi and Ryn. Let’s talk a little about Olive, the mentor, and Saskia, the typical bad-girl bully, we all now and then encounter within our own lives. Boy oh boy... Either you love their cocky-arrogant-selfish characters or you absolutely despised them. Wish they kind of flushed themselves down their toilets! A bit harsh? You decide and let me know your thoughts. Chase has mystery and danger written all over him. A good thing? A bad thing? The author, Rachel Morgan, did an excellent job of describing and creating Chase’s character. I’m not sure where he is headed within this story, but I’m sure as hell very excited to find out. The overall pace of the story was a bit slow in the beginning, but it did pick up, especially nearing the end of Book 4. The plot’s consistency runs fluently, no hiccups I’ve picked up or confusion, where you kind of get lost in the read, not sure what’s going on. No, not at all. The series thus far is easy to follow and we really fall in love with the characters...which side depends on whom you choose. I’m trying not to give too much away from what is going on. No spoilers from me at this stage, as I feel many more readers should pick up this series and read it. And of course, I really want to stop writing now as I’m so freakin curios to find out...What the heck just happened??? A Faerie’s Revenge (Book Five) ...Here I come! I honestly didn’t know what to expect from this month’s book box which was themed ‘Darkness’. I kept on postponing my ‘click-on-the-buy-link’ finger…waited until the 3rd week of July month. I constantly contemplated… “Should I buy it?” “Should I skip this month?” You might gawk at me, mouth hanging wide open with a jaw dropping to the floor and ask… “Why would you even consider contemplation??? Purchase the box!” Let me fill you in on a tiny secret… DARKNESS MONSTERS ANXIETY BLOOD AND GORE VIOLENCE RUN…ASHLEIGH!! I’m scared okay! Yep, this mama of two kiddos, wife of the best husband ever, Omega of two Alaskan Malamutes (Papa is the Alpha of course) … I don’t do well with horror or suspense or crime. Blood and gore creates this massive void within the pit of my stomach fueling anxiety as if it’s going out of fashion! I don’t do well with darkness… all lights simply can’t be off. A lamp or two... or three should be on in my space where I sleep or move around. You know… monsters creep around the corners waiting for that perfect moment to lunge at my ankles and pull me into some weird eerie closet with screeching noises filling my mind! People gurgle within their own blood, trying to reach out for some relief of enduring excruciating pain! With that said… let’s continue… The Book Case really impressed me this time. I don’t know if I’ll read the book…which we’ll discuss a bit later…but the goodies were really gorgeous! Let’s start chatting about the goodies. A stunning Six of Crows bookmark made by Once Upon A Time SA was in the box. One of my TBR books which I can’t wait to delve into. An absolute beauty which I really like was a Ransom Riggs pencil case inspired by ‘Miss Peregrine’s home for peculiar children’ made exclusively by PaperCUTe. A real beauty this one. My 13-year-old son received a beautiful wooden box from his grandmother a while back. This is now his memory/treasure box. Anything special gets a sacred space within this box. His eyes lit up when he saw this pencil case… “Here you go my boy…make space for this beauty”. The next item was a Frankenstein Ballpoint pen by Bee-autifully Yours. I do enjoy my variety of weird pens I’ve collected over the years. However, my dearest beautiful 9-year-old daughter receives all my stationary as she really loves Art…well…she kind of snatches them…Mama not remembering where I’ve ‘misplaced’ my pens… oh… look at that sweet adorable innocent face that knows not where I’ve put them… weeks later, I’ll find them between her sheets or under her pillow. Get my picture, right? An item I was really chuffed with was an exclusive owl winter hand warmer from our one and only, The Book Case. Such a clever idea I really never thought of. This baby will keep my hands warm during these cold cold winter nights. A Professor Snape’s Chalk Board was included. Really cute item. I passed this baby to my baby who loves writing and drawing. If she continues with her passion, she’ll turn out to be a real stunning artist. She’s really Artsy…and where did Professor Snape’s chalk board end up… in front of the bathroom hanging on the door handle… “DON’T DISTURB! I’M BUSY!” 😉 We received another make-a-wish bracelet by Bee-autifully Yours. Smaug’s Dragon Heart – The Hobbit. Now…to get to that really SCARY topic…Ashleigh…what’s the title of the book?? The Call by Peadar O’ Guilin. Apparently, this book has been compared with Hunger Games and Game of Thrones, just much more blood and gore and horror. I haven’t read the above books. I’ve only seen the Hunger Games movies. I haven’t touched the Game of Thrones TV series yet…I’ll go with the books first and decide afterwards. BUT…that anxiety just bursts and pumps into my blood. I scare really easily okay… Don’t judge! I’m such a light weight when it comes to scary stuff or anxiety filled scenes. Gimme some Bambi! So, will I read the book? I don’t know. Maybe I’ll do a giveaway at some stage. Once again, Thank You The Book Case for delivering another and even better book case…the goodies okay…! This is a blog where I mostly review books. However, the occasional ‘random topic’ will be added.
My idea for this blog would be to create a space for the love of books, but also including some personal stories/events which truly affects each and every human being. 04 July 2017, 17:55 PM, we received a phone call… My husband’s grandfather just died. Questions containing how’s, why’s, when’s etc. are quite irrelevant at this stage. Sadness crept in. An overwhelming sensation of hollowness grew larger within us…second’s and BAM! It hits you. It hits you again. It hits you over and over. Fear creeps in. Slithering through your system. Poisoning your blood. Nausea is overwhelming. Panic causes havoc. Heart rate spikes. Breathing becomes hollow. Tears blind you. Cringing forward, we hold one another and weep. It’s Saturday morning, 8th of July 2017, 8:04 AM. The funeral is today. Grandma is all alone in that big house. Family offered that she lives with them…but, how can she? Grandpa still lingers. His scent is everywhere. She touches his clothes. It still feels warm. She stares at his side on the bed. Creases still fresh. Can’t touch it. No…leave it as it is. Slowly she’ll slip into her side on the bed. He’s there. Breathing, softly and slowly. She can hear his heartbeat. His voice silently, yet loudly echoes in the house. Grandma has to leave Tiny behind this morning. Tiny is barking and crying… feeling… knowing… his dad has gone home. But Tiny wants to go with. Grandma can’t stop crying. In fact, she hadn’t stopped crying since Grandpa said good-bye 4 days ago. She needs to get ready for the funeral. Tiny has been their only child for years. He isn’t familiar staying home alone. He needs his Mom and Dad each moment of every day. Family came to fetch Grandma for the funeral. She’s confused. She’s heartbroken. She’s lonely. She doesn’t like this. Why is Grandpa not here with her? They were supposed to go home together. Why did he leave so early? Why did he leave her and Tiny? You see, Grandpa had this energy about him. He always smiled, laughed, made jokes and most important of all encouraged us constantly. He was the only person that never judged us. e was the only one to say: “You just watch…Rowan is going to stand out and surprise you all. You just wait and see.” Rowan is my husband. Grandpa is actually his grandfather. He always believed in Rowan since childhood. While mothers and fathers, aunts and uncles doubted and judged Rowan, Grandpa waved it all away and only always saw the best in his grandson. We decided to become Vegetarians…Grandpa never asked why. We decided to home-school our children…Grandpa never judged. We decided to follow our spiritual journey…Grandpa only encouraged us. We decided to follow our hearts and walk our own path…Grandpa never condemned us. Family will die. We’ll be sad, grieve for a moment and then life simply continues. However, this time is different. A legend in our eyes and hearts has passed. An energetic shift has taken place. Grandpa touched so many lives unknowingly. He was the anchor. He was the boat. He was the Captain of the ship. He held everything together. Grandpa Dirkie…Thank You for who you were. Thank You for all the good and fun times. Thank You for joking constantly and making us laugh that our tummies hurt. Your laughter alone was incredibly contagious. Thank You for your kind, loving and encouraging words always. Thank You for believing in me – Rowan. Thank You for accepting me – Ashleigh. Thank You for cherishing me – Arjay. Thank You for adoring me – Saskia. We’ll miss your voice. Your touch. Your hugs. Your laughter. Your words. We’ll miss you. Go now Grandpa. Go home. Your mother, father and brothers are waiting for you. Go now. Be still child. You return to your creator. We love you forever and always. R.A.A.S Family Wow, another month has sped past us. We simply can’t keep up with…time. 2017 came… a few more months and we’re entering 2018… a… moment…a philosophical one. Let’s get talking about ‘The Book Case’ is in the house once again! Constant progress updates on their social media tabs… CHECK. Delivery time AMAZING… CHECK. Awesome bookish goodies… CHECK. This case was truly filled with Legendary Ladies. We had Hermione; Katniss; Feyre; A House Targaryen and then Mariko. What a powerhouse! I love the scented, natural soy candle. Hermione’s Enchantment was the theme of the candle. I loved the small 100g tin. It’s a fusion of marshmallow and caramelized pear – very nice smell and color. Not sure out of which cave I crawled, but this is my very first tinned scented candle I own. The hype over all the beautiful scented soy candles has certainly taken its rounds. I’m one of them fans! However, I would’ve loved it if the label had some colour…something was just missing. C’MON – give me some color!! Let’s talk about another cave dwelling moment… I’ve until this day not yet read any of the ‘Game of Thrones series’ books, nor have I watched the TV series either. Yes, Yes...okay. I’m only waiting for the next GOT novel instalment to arrive! Thank you for my ‘A House Targaryen’ coaster. Now I’ll go and buy me some Game of Thrones books to add to the collection. Who doesn’t want a Mockinjay key ring?? I really like the key ring, but it does have a very plastic feel to it. Something that can break easily. I do realize these kinds of merchandise can be quite expensive. I’m kind of 50/50 on this one. However, in the end…my son gave me those puppy googly eyes and begged me for it…how can a mother possibly say no? ME!! IT’S MINE! (okay, okay..sonny boy did receive it 😉) Continuing to the next item. I do own the ACOTAR trilogy…which is still on my TBR pile. Yes, I’m dragging it out as long as possible. I really like the ACOTAR Night Court sterling silver pendant necklace by Bee-autifully Yours. However, hubby already claimed the necklace. But it has inspired me even more to dive into the ACOTAR series. We received a ‘Flame in the Mist’ art print from Jonathan Ball publishers. Stunning art print! Gorgeous. It’s tucked safely into my book…which we’ll soon discuss. ‘Make a Wish’ bracelet by Bee-autifully Yours. I thoroughly enjoy these bracelets. They’re so pretty. I’ve actually been collecting these wish bracelets for my daughter. She’s 9-years-old. Last night this excitement over-flowed within me. I asked myself, why wait till she’s a bit older. Time truly never awaits anybody. Sooo…ding ding…And the wish bracelet goes to…Baby Feet! And now, for the goodie we’ve all been waiting for…WHAT’S THE BOOK ASHLEIGH…you would ask? ‘Flame in the Mist’ by Renee Ahdieh. I shamefully have to admit, I’ve never heard of this author or read any of her books for that matter. Immediately I ran to the laptop and googled her. I’m really intrigued by this story. Never have I read something like this. What makes this story even more special is the author’s personal letter we received with the book. She explains why she wrote this story and how the protagonist resembles herself. The cover is absolutely stunningly beautiful. Definitely a hard cover goody to be added to my book case. We received the soft cover which is also absolutely gorgeous…but yes…this one I want in hard cover format as well. Thank You The Book Case for delivering another AWESOME book case box! The fate of the fae world is in her hands…
Violet Fairdale is in big trouble. Her home is gone, her beloved forest lies in ruins, the guy she gave her heart to has deserted her – and she doesn’t remember any of it. The powerful Lord Draven is taking over, brainwashing guardians into fighting for him. No one is safe from the evil spreading throughout the fae world. As alliances are forged between the remaining free fae, Vi struggles to reclaim her identity and figure out where she belongs in this new world. When someone from her past shows up, things get even more complicated. He brings with him a long-forgotten weapon and an ancient prophecy that places Vi at the centre of the fight against Draven. With the future of the fae world at stake, can Vi carry out the prophecy’s instructions before it’s too late? 5 stars If you’ve been following my reviews on the Creepy Hollow series, you’ll remember what I wrote about Nate in book #1 ‘The Faerie Guardian’. If you’re new to this blog…let me fill you in a bit. Nate was a character I couldn’t really place. He was introduced in a subtle way. No solid back story there. Violet fell in love with him. He betrayed her. She rejected him. Thus, Draven, the most powerful halfling was born. That’s roughly described in a nutshell and not nearly as cliché as it may seem. Rachel Morgan (author) in my opinion did an excellent job at introducing, developing and ending this character, we learned to love, then basically despise and ultimately felt extremely sorry for. I would’ve enjoyed or understood better or even connected with Nate’s character if there was more solidity and a better understanding of his sudden change of heart. A bit rushed at times. He was the lord of destruction – caused great havoc within the fae realm – so maybe he deserved more story… With this said, Nate leaves much food for thought. The story builds up beautifully and engages the reader in such a way where you feel you could duck and dive. Chapter 28 really concluded what caused or rather what it meant to bring Nate to his death. Actually, really sad…swallowing hard…lump in throat! “They didn’t know the real Nate.” “By the strike of the sword, and the death of innocence, evil will be laid to rest. Nate was the innocence. Lost. Confused. Alone”. New characters were introduced. Jamon and Tilly stood out the most. In fact, Tilly reminded me so much of Luna Lovegood in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Incredibly unique in her own way. A real hero saving Violet and Ryn from those bounty hunters. I really enjoyed all the twists, plot building becomes thicker and messier…in a good clean way. Suspenseful action scenes and so much more. Violet…This awesome heroic faerie has endured so much heartache…don’t even mention the physical injuries! She’s grown so much. Naïve and innocent, but yet incredibly tough and strong. Each action Violet performs is fueled by passion. She wanted to be the next best guardian…no…she needed to be the best. For good reason, though. She desperately wanted to ‘meet’ her mother even if it were only contact through energetic presence and a wooden box (since her mother died a long time ago). The guilt, hurt, pressure and anger was simply too much. She became vulnerable and cracked. The scenes were described vividly. I wanted to weep and grieve for Violet’s part…and that right there is the ultimate goal from an author’s perspective…drawing the reader into the world of the creator. Pulling cords. Knock you off your feet with gut-wrenching scenes! Where is my tissues?! Let’s briefly touch the scene where my stomach literally plummeted…Violet and Ryn seeing one another for the first time after ‘The Destruction’. Slow motion…tense…painful. We got to know Ryn pretty well in this book. Violet for sure brings out his best and not so good sides. I enjoyed reading where he never once forced himself or his feelings upon Violet. He gave her space irrespectively of the turmoil he himself experienced. He let her be. Let her discover her own truth when she was ready to face it. Would you want an ability to be able to feel other’s emotions? Ryn actually had such a burden of an ability. I’m sure it served him well in times of need, but in general...pretty overwhelming if you ask me. What would you do if you knew you were responsible for creating so much havoc, destroyed your world, caused too many deaths, especially those you loved? Imagine this was real. Would you want to forget? Would you want to perish rather than face the havoc you’ve created? These are the questions that really pull you in when reading this story. Yes sure, it’s fantasy fiction about butt-kicking faeries, goblins, trolls and whatnot! Yet, words are written in such a way that evoke all these emotions and questions. Creating curiosity, luring you in for more. Lastly, but not least…YES! I want a shrinking dragon too! So freakin cool. While writing this review, I ran back and forth between the books I’ve read for reference and only now realized… Was this the end of Violet’s story? Was this the end of Ryn’s story? No, can’t be! I want to read more of them. I’ve grown attached to them. So…run with me to the next book. We need to dive in and continue our journey. Maybe Vi and Ryn will come and say “Hi”. Let’s go and meet... Calla Larkenwood. The magical world is a dangerous one…
Guardian trainee Violet Fairdale is just weeks away from one of the most important occasions of her life: graduation. After messing up big time by bringing a human into the fae realm, Vi needs to step up her game and forget about Nate if she hopes to graduate as the top guardian of her year. Everything would be fine if she wasn’t forced to partner with Ryn, her ex-friend, ex-enemy, current ‘sort of friend.’ They might be trying to patch up their relationship, but does she really want to spend a week undercover with him for their final assignment? On top of that, the possibly insane Unseelie prince is still on the loose, free to ‘collect’ as many especially talented faeries as he can – and Vi is still at the top of his list. Add in faerie queens, enchanted storms, complicated not-just-friends’ feelings, and a murder within the Guild itself, and graduation is about to become the least of Vi’s problems. 5 stars OH, MY GOOD GOLLY???!! What just happened? Who is responsible? What the hell? No no no! Who is the freakin culprit here?? Okay, enough ranting. You probably want a review…right? Violet’s character is developing quite beautifully. She’s growing, though very naïve still. She’s a tough, kick-ass faerie though vulnerable. She has endured a lot of loss given both her parents died. We experience her tough don’t-mess-with-me side, however her softer don’t-hurt-or-leave-me side screams loud and clear. Violet’s father returns from the dead…Hmm...What a freakin shocker! An intense suspenseful ride as she chases this familiar stranger that shapeshifts into the liking of her father – how dare this shapeshifter do such a thing! A real tear-jerking moment. What an unexpected twist! I’m loving this. Violet’s mother’s secret message…was it satisfying or disappointing? I’m not sure yet and don’t want to judge too quickly. I’m really looking forward to Violet finding that wooden box and maybe…hopefully it’s something from her mother – a personal mother-daughter message. It’s so obvious Violet yearns for such a moment. Violet and Ryn’s relationship. What a freakin fantastic scene it was when Ryn took Violet on the flying carpet adventure! Boy-oh-boy…the glow bug butts…that sure put Ryn at top rank when it comes down to Violet’s heart! “Well, clearly I took that as a challenge, and since it’ll apparently take the shining butts of a gazillion glow-bugs to prove myself to you, here they are.” That was such an Epic moment! I hear all Creepy Hollow fans swooning right there! I was so nervous that Violet was going to reject Ryn for some reason, but instead she crashed into him and sparks exploded! What a hot chocolate with marshmallow moment…Ahhhh… Ryn’s character has definitely developed beautifully as well. We’ve experienced his arrogant assiness side, his gorgeous flirtatious moments, grieving and hurtful memories and then his vulnerable softer side towards Violet. Looking forward to reading more about these two. Plot development thus far has been freakin crazy and confusing. Well done to the author, Rachel Morgan, for creating such an awesome world and characters we meet, learn to love and hate and those we kind of fear while annoyingly grinding our teeth! Don’t you just wish you could pull out those Unseelie Queen’s whole family tree’s wings one by one!? Do they even have wings? Action scenes are continuous throughout the whole book. You think a breather is in order, but as soon as you inhale deep and graciously…you fall into a darkness hole created either by Violet or Ryn with their stylus and you grab your stomach…not sure where you’ll drop and gasp for air. There is lots of drama. Sometimes a little dragged out, however it kind of balances things out a bit. No complaints here. The general flow of the series is easy to read, follow and understand. The real action has now only begun. Hold onto your horses’ peeps, I get the sneaky feeling, we’re in for a mean roller-coaster ride. I just have to add…That last scene…Chapter 33-34. My eyes are cringing. I’m shocked, horrified and heartbroken. “Violet honey…you drank the forget-me potion!” No! No! No! Somehow, we as humans can relate to experiencing so much pain, pressure and grief, that we wish we had a forget-me potion. Would you drink it? What would you gain? What would you lose… 5 stars
Legends and Myths theme Father’s Day…Wives, children and parents scurry around the shopping mall trying to find that perfect gift for their husband, father and son. Some spend a few Rand, others don’t mind going the extra few thousand Rand in total. Many children indulge in their creativity and make beautiful hand-crafted items whereas there are quite a few Dad’s out there that don’t feel or have the love that is spread throughout this day. My heart truly goes out to all of them! As we all usually follow tradition or then the ‘norm’ of things, we end up giving our significant others a fat delicious chocolate or some Daddy’s toy gadget. But don’t you get bored with the same kind of gift year in and year out? Not to keep you in the dark any longer – I found the perfect gift…FOR ANY OCCASION REALLY! Let me introduce to you our very own ‘The Book Case’ book box. The theme for this special Father’s Day was ‘Legends and Myths’ – “When something goes wrong, the first thing I always think is, it is Loki’s fault”. Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman. I really wasn’t sure how my hubby would feel about receiving his own book box. Does he read? Not really. Does he share my excitement when I receive my monthly book box? Hell Yes! Does he ‘hint-hint’ that he wants some of the goodies in the box as well? Freakin YES YES! Well, then this book box would be the perfect gift – none of us know what Daddy will be receiving, and it’s something completely out of the norm…well at least for us. Once again, The Book Case has delivered and to hear a “Wow” from Daddy…pat on my back…yeah, that was my gift idea! “😊 Again, to no surprise, we received the box in record time given our categorization within the courier departments. So, the box was placed on the bed. Kiddo’s buzzed like flies around the room of course. Daddy walked around with a huge smile on his face and I of course couldn’t contain my excitement… “What book is inside honey????” Eventually after much begging…from our side…Daddy finally started opening the box…literally piece by piece. The look on his face was a once in a lifetime photographic moment I will treasure always. He was so chuffed when he pulled out the magical ‘Evil Eye Talisman’ bookmark exclusively by Bee-autifully Yours. Next, it was an exclusive mythology atlas notebook – Mixed Artwork. What we really liked about this notebook was its synthetic hard cover leather feel. Really fancy! Then of course what would a special day be without some socks!? They were cute funky socks by Toe Porn. Eventually it was given to me as a gift – Daddy wasn’t too fond of the ‘funkiness’, but now I’m wearing it. So, who’s complaining! Then he took out a little tin mug made exclusively by PaperCUTE. Now this he really loved, as it was added to his survival back-pack. You know, for that unexpected “GRAB YOUR BAGS AND RUN” moment… Now for the biggest surprise in the book box…I mean, this is after all the main idea behind such a box, except for all the cool bookish goodies. When hubby saw the book, he sat quietly and just absorbed what he held in his hands. Now remember, this is a guy that doesn’t really read. The whole look and feel of the book was absolutely stunning! We received the paperback, but MAN, what an absolute beauty. Soft feel. A real mystical type of energy. Coming to the conclusion…once again The Book Case, you really delivered. Hubby absolutely loves his book…and survival little mug! He’s loving his new read and dreading each moment he nears the end. |
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