Conflicted about The Iron Trial

Title: The Iron Trial

Author: Holly Black, Cassandra Clare

Series: Magisterium #1

My Rating:★★★☆☆

Genres: MG, Fantasy, Magic

Published: September 9th 2014 by Doubleday Children's Books

Source: eARC via NetGalley

Goodreads/Amazon/Book Depository

Description from Goodreads

From NEW YORK TIMES bestselling authors Holly Black and Cassandra Clare comes a riveting new series that defies what you think you know about the world of magic.

From two bestselling superstars, a dazzling and magical middle-grade collaboration centering on the students of the Magisterium, an academy for those with a propensity toward magic. In this first book, a new student comes to the Magisterium against his will -- is it because he is destined to be a powerful magician, or is the truth more twisted than that? It's a journey that will thrill you, surprise you, and make you wonder about the clear-cut distinction usually made between good and evil.

My Thoughts

I wasn't sure how to rate this book. In the end I decided to give it 3 stars, because although it reminded me a lot of Harry Potter, I ended up enjoying it. I haven't actually read the Harry Potter series, but I know the movies well (I'm a big fan of them) and so I couldn't help but notice the similarities.

Okay. So, let's discuss this book. The Iron Trial is about a kid who enters a magic school. Sounds familiar? I thought so. But wait. The similarities don't end here, there is more. So the main character is Call, and he is special; he's the only one who survived the Cold Massacre. He's the boy who lived, you see. Though in this book, Call doesn't lose both his parents like Harry Potter, only his mom dies. Another thing that bugs me is that the antagonist in this book (the Enemy of Death) sounds a lot like Voldemort, especially because he craves immortality and leaves Call with a mark during the Cold Massacre. Also, shall I mention that when Call enters the school of magic, he is deliberately grouped with two other kids, a boy and a girl to be specific. Ron and Hermione, perhaps?

So, yeah. My initial thought was this:

However, even though I hated the fact that it was very much like Harry Potter, I must confess that I found it quite addicting. I truly liked the writing, and there was all this mystery going on, which was really compelling. And to be honest, towards the second half of the book I could kind of put aside the similarities. kind of. And the ending! THE ENDING JUST BLEW MY MIND! It was very shocking and completely unexpected.

Therefore, I'm very conflicted about this book. I hate how it isn't original, but I can't deny the fact that I was captivated. And because of that fantastic ending, I'm quite intrigued to know what happens in the sequel.

Overall, this gif explains my conflicted feelings.

Review: Stolen Songbird by Danielle L. Jensen

Title: Stolen Songbird

Author: Danielle L. Jensen

Series: The Malediction Trilogy #1

My Rating: ★★★★★

Genres: YA, Fantasy, Romance, Magic

Publication: April 1st 2014 by Strange Chemistry

Format Read: Paperback, purchased

Goodreads/Amazon/Book Depository

Description from Goodreads

For those who have loved Seraphina and Graceling comes another truly fabulous fantasy...

For five centuries, a witch’s curse has bound the trolls to their city beneath the ruins of Forsaken Mountain. Time enough for their dark and nefarious magic to fade from human memory and into myth. But a prophesy has been spoken of a union with the power to set the trolls free, and when Cécile de Troyes is kidnapped and taken beneath the mountain, she learns there is far more to the myth of the trolls than she could have imagined.

Cécile has only one thing on her mind after she is brought to Trollus: escape. Only the trolls are clever, fast, and inhumanly strong. She will have to bide her time, wait for the perfect opportunity.

But something unexpected happens while she’s waiting – she begins to fall for the enigmatic troll prince to whom she has been bonded and married. She begins to make friends. And she begins to see that she may be the only hope for the half-bloods – part troll, part human creatures who are slaves to the full-blooded trolls. There is a rebellion brewing. And her prince, Tristan, the future king, is its secret leader.

As Cécile becomes involved in the intricate political games of Trollus, she becomes more than a farmer’s daughter. She becomes a princess, the hope of a people, and a witch with magic powerful enough to change Trollus forever.

My Review

I've been taking a break from fantasy books, and after reading Stolen Songbird I realized how much I miss the genre and why I love it so much! This book has been on my wish-list ever since it got published; I've read a lot of good reviews about it, and I'm so glad I finally decided to read it.

So, let's talk about Stolen Songbird. This novel is about Cecile, a girl who has been training to become a singer ever since she was a child. When she turned 17 she was ready to move to the city and finally sing on stage, but unfortunately that didn't happen; Cecile ended up being kidnapped by trolls and got trapped into a world full of wonders and magic.

I have never read anything about trolls before, and because of that I thought Stolen Songbird was very refreshing. The world building was solid and I was captivated by Trollus, the lost city of trolls; whenever I imagined it in my head, I couldn't help but see the Walls of Moria from The Lord of The Rings. And because I love LOTR, it's hard for me not to like Stolen Songbird. The trolls themselves were very interesting creatures, and I found myself engaged with their magic, politics and society.

I liked Cecile as the main character, even though she wasn't the kick-ass type of girl. It took her a while to accept that there was no escaping from Trollus, and as the story progressed we saw her act foolishly most of the times. But I didn't find her annoying at all, in fact I thought that all the feelings she went through were completely understandable. And I felt for her because she was just this fragile, little human among the deceitful and scary trolls who wanted to rule the world.

The romance was one of my favorite aspects of this book. Tristan was well, swoon *fans self*. He acted all cold and indifferent, but in the inside he was a kindhearted person, troll I mean.

I loved almost everything about this book. The only negative thing I have to point out is that I thought the author dragged the story out, but nevertheless I truly enjoyed reading Stolen Songbird. The writing was so beautiful, there is giddy romance and the world was just captivating. And the cliff-hanger at the end! I'm so keen for the sequel! 

DNF Review: Bentwhistle the Dragon in a Threat from the Past by Paul Cude

Title: Bentwhistle the Dragon in a Threat from the Past
Author: Paul Cude
My Rating: ★☆☆☆☆
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Published: October 1st 2011
Format: Ebook, 360 pages
Copy provided by Author

Description from Goodreads

An adventure story children and adults alike will love, about the present dat world in which dragons disguised as humans have infiltrated the human race at almost every level, to guide and protect them.


My Review:

When the author contacted me to review his book, I was a bit skeptical to read it because truth be told, the cover isn't very attractive. However, I realized I wasn't being fair so I decided to put my first impression aside and give this book a chance.

There are several things that I didn't like about this book. The first was the slow pacing. I kept putting this book down because I had a really hard time getting into the story. I didn't like how flashbacks were used for the world building and to tell the background story. I think it made the tale really slow and boring. There were also a lot of information to take in, and I felt that some things could have been omitted as they weren't relevant. Another reason why I didn't enjoy this book, was that I didn't click with the characters. After reading more than 200 pages I still didn't feel for them. I even tried to take a break from reading, so I could have a fresh start but when that didn't work, I eventually gave up. I feel that the main character, Peter, is very shallow which didn't make him interesting to read. He isn't a brave person, he allows others to walk over him and always relies on his two friends, Tank and Richie. Although I think he probably may have changed by the end of the book, I didn't think he was an enjoyable character to read. This book has also a mystery aspect to it, but it unfolds really slowly and I didn't find it very intriguing.

However, the fascinating thing about Bentwhistle the Dragon in a Threat from the Past was that it focuses a lot on sport. It's something I have never encountered in other novels before, and I think it's what differentiates this book from other similar-sounding books. I also like the idea it's based upon. It's set in the present where dragons live secretly amongst humans. Since they were born, the dragons have been training to assume human forms and learning about human lifestyle, so they could easily blend in. I liked how there's a whole "dragon community" that lives underground, and how all the training doesn't happen in secret academies and schools. 

To summarize, I think this could have been a really great book. I liked the setup, but didn't like the execution. Sadly, this is neither a plot-driven nor a character-driven book.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ecopy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Aurora Abroad by Karen Kiefer

Title: Aurora Abroad
Author: Karen Kiefer
Rating: ★ ★ ★★ ★ 
Genres: YA, Fantasy, Fairy Tales
Format Read: Kindle, 283 pages

Description from Goodreads

Who hasn’t heard the story of the princess with an unfortunate tendency for coma-inducing finger pricks? And who could forget about the evil witch who wants to kill her by any means necessary, be it spindle or poisonous apple? Who hasn’t rolled his eyes at the thought of Prince Charming and his affinity for tights, tunics and baseless serenades? 

But the princess we know was never whisked away to a world of magic lamps and genies, and she most certainly didn’t go on a quest with the naked emperor from the Emperor’s New Clothes… until now. Big bad wolves, trolls, frog princes and pirates (among other things) come together in a madcap marriage of classic fairy tales. Hans Christian Andersen wouldn’t be proud!

At approximately 90,000 words, Aurora Abroad is a romantic comedy for all ages

My Review

This is a really fun and cute story that everyone will enjoy!

Since I was a little kid, I've never really liked princess Aurora, in fact I've always thought she was boring. But there are a lot of people on Goodreads who enjoyed this book, so I decided to give it a try. And it certainly didn't disappoint.

In this sweet fairy tale story, Aurora travels around the world to escape from her evil aunt Maleficient who, we all know, wants to kill her. As the story progresses she meets lots of people, some really weird creatures, and she also finds her true self. Yeah, I know it sounds just like an average and ordinary story, but I really liked it. I think it's a good YA adventure/fairy tale retelling book; it may not be one of those books that surprises you with twists and turns, but it has so many characters that you will easily get attached to. So, Aurora Abroad is definitely a character-driven book, and kudos to the author for creating such wonderful and enjoyable characters!

This book made me change my opinion about Aurora. She's not like the disney princess who falls in love at first sight. She is tough, and  not fond of romantic poems. I really like how she's completely oblivious to Lyric's feelings for her. The two constantly bicker and argue, and are just so cute together. Even though Lyric isn't really my type of fictional boyfriend (because he's too whiny), I think he's really perfect for Aurora. He's brave and kind. Well, not at first. 

I love how the author mixes tons of different fairy tale stories in this book: Rapunzel, Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, you name it! This book has it all! So, if you love fairy tales you should definitely pick up this book!

Review: Diego's Dragon: Spirits of the Sun by Kevin Gerard

Title: Spirits of the Sun (Diego's Dragon #1)

Author: Kevin Gerard
Rating: ★ ★ ★★ ☆

Genres: MG, Fantasy, Adventure
Format Read: Smashwords, 43,950 words
Copy provided by Author

Description from Goodreads
An eleven-year-old Latino boy wins a district-wide writing contest for sixth graders. When an author visits his school to award his prize, Diego Ramirez has no idea how much his life is about to change.Nathan Sullivan hands Diego his statue, a handsome, glistening black dragon. He shakes his hand and leaves him to his friends. The students crowd around Diego, asking for permission to hold it.After hearing the name Magnifico spoken aloud by family and friends, Diego awards it to his new dragon. If he only knew how fitting the name was, he might have known what lay ahead. Magnifico is the leader of the Sol Dragones, dragons that live within the magical fires of the sun. Nathan Sullivan is the earth's connection to the mysterious creatures. It is his task to find Magnifico's guide.As Magnifico comes to life he becomes quite mischievous, playing tricks on Diego to embarrass him. As he discovers his bloodline, however, Diego assumes greater control over his dragon and his destiny. In the climactic journey, he frees his people and suffers a terrible loss by guiding Magnifico to their goal.

My Review:

I've been seeing this book on lots of blogs lately. The cover was so eye catching and I was instantly intrigued. Needless to say that I was super excited to read about Diego's journey. 

Diego is a sixth grader, who is smarter than the other kids of his age. When an author gives him a statue of a dragon, for winning a contest, his entire life turns upside down. All sort of crazy stuff starts happening: his dragon, Magnifico, comes to life and plays tricks on him, the girl he has a crush on starts talking to him and the mysterious author tells him about a grand journey.

I really like the idea that's inspired Mr. Gerard to write this book. I think it's unique, and that Diego makes a really great hero. He is charming, intelligent and an adorable little kid who loves his family. I like how he follows what his instinct tells him; he immediately feels that there is something wrong with the dragon and when he realizes that it might harm his beloved ones, he doesn't think twice before getting rid of it.
Magnifico, on the other hand is a really mischievous and unpredictable creature. He has a temper and tends to cause trouble, and it takes a while for Diego to learn how to control and deal with his new dragon.
This book reminds me a little of Hiccup and Toothless from How To Train Your Dragon. The two stories are nothing alike, but whenever I read about Diego and Mangnifico dashing through the sky, I feel the same feelings of lightheartedness and joy that I felt when I watched How To Train Your Dragon. But maybe that's just because of my weird obsession with that movie.

The hispanic culture is beautifully portrayed in this book. I really love learning and reading about different values and traditions, and I think it's a pity how most YA books lack of those themes. However, this book also deals with issues that are very common in teen books like alcohol and rebellious teenagers. 

Although I really enjoyed reading this book, I confess that I was a bit confused about Racquel's mysterious part in Diego's journey. But later on I noticed that I woudn't have been that confused, if I read the last part of the book description attentively. Aside from that issue, the ending was really satisfying. 

Overall I really enjoyed reading Diego's Dragon. It's a great fantasy and adventure book with lots of amazing characters. I highly recommend it to those who are fans of How To Train Your Dragon.


Thank you to the author for providing me with an ecopy in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Tempus by Holly Lauren

Title: Tempus

Author: Holly Lauren
Rating: ★ ★ ★★ ★ 

Genres: YA, Fantasy, Paranormal
Format Read: ebook, 234 pages
Goodreads/Amazon/Book Depository

Description from Goodreads

Chapel Ryan isn't crazy. At least, that's what she's been trying to convince herself of for most of her life. But after being hallucination-free for three years, Chapel finds herself facedown on her English classroom’s gritty linoleum floor. When she looks up, everyone around her is suspended in animation. Mouths hang open mid-yawn, feet hover mid-cross, Ms. Freeman’s arm flexes mid-sentence diagram. It's another hallucination. Or, is it? 

Chapel prepares to tear herself back to reality when something happens. Something that has never happened before in any of her hallucinations--someone moves. And not just any someone—it’s the new guy with a scar over his lip and a reputation as black as his perfectly styled hair. And all of the sudden Chapel's white-knuckle grip on her life has slipped, and with it, her assurance that what she's experiencing isn't real.

My Review

I didn't know what this book was about before I started reading it. The description from Goodreads didn't give me much information. All I knew was that Chapel could freeze time. 

The synopsis is practically the first chapter of the book so it was really easy for me to get into it. I really love the dialogues and the interaction between the characters and how the author tells the story. There's a mystery aspect going on, and it all unfolds as the story goes on. I kept guessing what would happen, but was never 100% sure I knew how everything would turn out. 

Chapel Ryan is a truly unique and compelling character. She is aware that something is wrong with her, but that doesn't prevent her to live a totally normal life. She is anxious for the future, has family problems and breakup issues just like any other teenage girl. She is strong willed and stubborn, but she is also a really nice and good person. She stands for what she believes and it's fascinating how strong her faith in God is.

Zay is Chapel's love interest. He is playful but mature. I really enjoyed reading how he and Chapel grow to know one another. The romance was really sweet and cute.

This is one of those books that has really great characters that I've grown attached to. Chapel is so fortunate to be surrounded by so many good people, and I actually envy her a little. She might not have the perfect family, but she does have wonderful best friends that are always there for her.

There were hints of love triangle here and there, but thankfully the story didn't divert and focus solely on that.

Overall I truly enjoyed reading Tempus. It's a sweet and intriguing book that has the perfect mix of romance, mystery and paranormal. I was hooked from the very first page and couldn't stop reading. Can't wait to read the sequel!

I would definitely recommend Tempus to anyone who loves reading YA! 

Favorite Quotes

"I know that you're strong, but you aren't tough. You hate the night, but you're brave enough to wait for the day. And that you're the kind of girl who won't cry your own tears, but you will cry someone else's."  

"The thing about high school, Ryan, is that there are always girls. Sometimes they're pretty. But they're rarely interesting. And pretty without interesting is like a gun without bullets. All you can do is throw it at somebody, but it's not going to knock them down."

 "I don't think of pain as something that can be measured. It either hurts, or it doesn't."

Review: Kiss Me, I'm Irish by Bella Street

Title: Kiss Me, I'm Irish (Tennessee Waltz, #1)
Author: Bella Street
Rating: ★ ★ ★☆☆ (3.5)
Genres: YA, Fantasy, Time Travel
Format read: Kindle, Won

Synopsis from Goodreads

Emily Musgrave is heading a direction she never wanted to go in Regency England--namely a convent to turn her from her waywardness. But it's more loneliness than rebellion that motivates her to escape her certain fate. Liam Jackson is going nowhere fast in modern-day Tennessee. Playing his Dobro in seedy bars and backward dives along with his fiddling sister, Tinker, is doing nothing for his music career--and even less for the dark places in his soul. Pixie mischief can not only change time-lines, it can change hearts. Because sometimes a girl just needs a little magic in her life.

My Review:

I won this book from the author and was really excited to read it because the cover and the title were so attractive. And I actually started reading it on St Patrick's day, how cool is that?

So Emily Musgrave is from 1890 and she was unwillingly being sent to pass the rest of her life in a convent. But thankfully she is able to escape and somehow find herself in the future (in 2011 to be precise). She'll then meet two musicians Liam and Tinker who'll help her adjust and get used to the 21st century's life style.

Bella Street created some really realistic characters and I think she's done a great job on writing how a girl, from a previous century, would react to things we have in the present and that for us are ordinary and normal; like how Emily thought that the TV was a box with little people in it.

This book has got me laughing out loud because the dialogues were just so funny. Emily seems so naive and sometimes has no clue of what she's saying.

I liked that there is a mix of magic, piskeys and music in this book. What I didn't like though, was Liam's behaviour. He is Emily's love interest and he acts as if he were incapable to accomplish anything even though I know he has great potential. He is afraid of failing, but it's good that in the end he didn't disappoint me.

Overall the first half of the book was truly amazing, the second half not so much, but the ending was great.