Tuesday 26 May 2009

BlogMaintenance

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The Cry of the Icemark, by Stuart Hill


2006, The Chicken House
510 pages
Genre: Childrens' Fantasy, 10 years +
(I couldn't find a bigger picture)

14 year old Thirrin has what I call attitude. Sometime in the novel, she develops royal attitude (paraphrased from the story). There is little difference between the two: royal attitude is attitude which only royalty can wield: anyone else would be considered rude, indirect and countless other adjectives. Both are characteristics of a protagonist that I love. With a father who has a love of fluffy slippers, an advisor who is finally learning that Thirrin will pay attention if the lessons have anything to do with combat, and a cute kitten, life looks good for Thirrin. That is, until Scipio Bellorum, General of the Polypontian Empire invades the kingdom of Icemark.

Warfare follows, and with it the death of her father. Although this story is about war, there aren't chapters and chapters with long descriptions of each and every battle. The fights themselves flow quite quickly. It is the lead up to the battles and the alliances which Thirrin forms that are central to this story.

Thirrin's spirit keeps her strong after her father's death. She isn't cold hearted, at times her facade wobbles - as did my eyes - but she knows how people look at royalty. As much as possible she maintains a firm image of a strong Queen. She is supported by her father's aide, Maggiore, who now looks after the royal cat Primplepuss. Maggiore has experience of dealing with a monarch, and great knowledge about diplomacy, something that Thirrin learns over time. This is complimented by the Witch's Son, Ozkan, who Thirrin befriends early on. He can heal people, talk to the gods of the woods, understand the speech of werewolves, and, on occasion, catches glimpses of the future. His power has hidden depths: it is only through his growing friendship with Thirrin that the full extent of that power unravels. The consequences are devastating, for the reader and Thirrin.

Thirrin isn't afraid of saying no. Unlike her ancestors, she realises that with a vast army knocking on her door, she can't be fussy who her allies are. The relationship forged with the werewolves lasts well into the second book (review coming up soon, once I've finished it). This friendship helps forge alliance with other, less amiable creatures - the vampires. Furthermore, Thirrin is the first to persuade the snow leopards far in the north that human matters concern them. These cats are big - no, huge. Much larger than the snow leopards we know.

The humour in this book made me laugh a lot. Even when the situation was dire, there was always a light phrase at hand. I cried as hard as I laughed - although thankfully not as often. Stuart Hill has a way with words that had me turning over the page frantically once I'd reached the bottom.

From the names of those in the Polypontian Empire, I felt that this was the land of the Romans (I think the phrase veni, vidi, vici gave it away), and the land of Icemark was that belonging to the Vikings, with the details of the culture and the environment. This combination of cultures works well, making me think twice about situations and how the characters dealt with them.

I would happily read this book again, straight away! Content is appropriate for nearly all; a small love story as the relationship between Thirrin and Ozkan grows, but subtle in nature. Virtually nothing was blushable, perhaps the odd bit of rough language or intimation, but not worthy of a paperclip. As I said at the beginning, violence is low; however a few scenes are grisly so one dagger is needed here.

Daggers: 1
Tissues: 3
Smiles: 3-4
Overall rating: 5/5

This is book one in the Icemark Chronicle trilogy. The second bookl, The Sword of Fire, will be reviewed shortly. It might be a little while to review the third book, Last Battle of the Icemark, since I haven't yet borrowed it from the library.

Thursday 21 May 2009

Pure Dead Magic, by Debi Gliori


2002, Corgi
219 pages
Childrens: appeal for boys and girls, 9-12 years

Warning: do not drink anything while reading this. The drink will not stay in your mouth!

On first glance, I thought this would be entertaining. I got a glimpse of how entertaining it would be with the dramatis personae.

Titus (12 years), his sister Pandora (10 years old) and their younger sister Damp (14 months old) are living with their mother, Signora Baci Strega-Borgia in StregaSchloss when their father just ups and leaves. Just like that. No explanation as to why (although the reason is revealed in the novel). Baci, who is taking magic courses at the weekend to improve her magical ability, needs more help than Latch the butler and Marie Bain the cook can provide. Edible food is just the start. So she advertises for nannys.

Most have ended up in Tock the crocodile's stomach as he lounges around the moat. The 600 year old several times great grandmother, cryogenically preserved in the freezer is no help whatsoever: she only defrosts during a powercut to see if there's a 'cure' for her ailment. Multitudina, Pandora's pet rat has her hands full with ratlings (rat babies?) literally enters cyber space. Tarentella, the spider who loves lipstick scares Titus but proves a great babysitter for Damp. The latest nanny, Mrs Flora McLachlan (full name in the novel) has a great secret. She can do magic too - all with the help of a little box. For her current charges, she prefers to be normal. But, at the climax of the story, she brings out the box to save the family from their Mafia lineage.

The imagination here is incredible. Computers actually are live. The internet is a highway that rats, babies and children travel on. You don't want to be around when a dragon has severe tummy ache. Or when concrete is served as meal. Or when Pandora gets her hand on her mother's wands. Life is certainly not normal in the Strega-Borgia household.

This first book in a trilogy deals with the sensitive issue of what happens when parents separate (all is not as it seems and there is a HEA). The emotions felt by the children, and their mother's actions had me reaching for tissues. I nearly wept when Titus finally caved in and cried. The despair Pandora felt when she witnessed her brother not being strong, when the world caved in and her mother couldn't help struck a chord in me. People are wrong if they underestimate childrens books. Delve deeply into them, and pick out the messages that are a comfort for the reader.

Aside from Pure Dead Wicked, and Pure Dead Brilliant (the remainder in the series) there's also Deep Trouble, Deep Water and Deep Fear. I'll be checking this 2nd series out when I can.

This can't really get a cute rating, but it gets five smiles for humour.
Overall rating: 5/5

Information about Debi Gliori can be found here.

Fairy Secrets, by Gwyneth Rees



2008, Macmillan Childrens books
206 pages
Childrens: for girls!

I'm branching out even further in my reviews. There's a reason I love childrens books. Some, not all, are like this one and have suitable content. No boyfriends (not even a whiff of them). It has me very happy and if I ever have girls, I'll buy these books for them.

You know that piece of chocolate that went missing? You're convinced there was over half a bar left but now there's only a third? Well, its not mice. It's not your children/siblings/spouse. It's fairies. Fairies love chocolate.

Thankfully in the little Welsh village the owner of the shop, Mr Owen, believes in fairies. He doesn't think someone is shoplifting chocolate. He's happy for them to take it. In return, they leave him gifts. One of which he gives to Ellie, staying with her aunt (and unfortunately her brother) while their parents are on holiday.

The story follows the tale of Ellie as she meets two fairies, Myfanwy and Bronwen, and sets about saving the entry to fairyland. It lies in a toy museum, whose owner needs to sell it. There's more to this story than just saving fairy land. A lot more.

For starters, there are the cute illustrations: stars at the bottom of the pages, a fairy in each corner at the top. There are illustrations in most chapters too. They add to the whole picture painted by the story (sometimes I wish other books had more pictures). My personal favourite was the one where Myfanwy and Bronwen are flying while balancing chocolate buttons on their heads :) Chocoholics those two.

Plus, its a tale of how Ellie overcomes her shyness. At the beginning of the book, she is painfully shy, but circumstances make her find her voice and overcome her embarrassment at speaking to strangers. The fairies have a big hand in this. But its also a case of if Ellie doesn't say something, then no-one will. Her aunt refuses to do the talking for her (sensible lady).

Okay, if I'm analysing this book as an example for my future children to read, I'm not so fond of how many lies/deceptions Ellie does. However, she knows her actions are wrong, and does make amends for them.

I like this book so much that I'm going to check out the rest at my library - not just the fairy books either!

Cuteness factor: 5 clouds
Overall rating: 5/5

Check out more fairy stories on Gwyneth Rees' site

Wednesday 20 May 2009

Sword of God, by Chris Kuzneski


2007, Penguin
422 pages
Thriller

This was one of those books. You know. The one which you can't put down because every chapter has you wanting more. Got to love thrillers.

Nayu's thriller checklist:

Female protag - check. Two of them. Shari's a civilian, archaeologist, not quite on the right side of the Saudia Arabian law but she keeps her head underground. Literally. The other one, Kia, is a military interpreter. Both get put in danger a lot, and witness horrific scenes.

Military involvement: the good guys (and girl).

Weapons: happy sigh. Good range of arsenal (guns, C4, the usual).

Life or death scenario: it's not every day warped individual want to unite the Islamic community by blowing up the most revered site, Mecca, and blaming the Americans. (For the record I'm against violence, and like all people, of all religions).

This made a pleasant change from the other thriller's I've read (based on Christian or extra-terrestrial artefacts). Not that I didn't enjoy the others - I did, tremendously. Just nice to have something a little different. There's the usual friendly banter between members of the military team, a little bit of romance (not much smush, I promise). There is detailed gore and violence, so probably not for the faint hearted.

Why are you still here? That timer on world destruction is ticking - go read!

Daggers: 3
TGB: 2 (again...I read quite a few books before this one so I'm a little hazy on details)
Tissues: 1
Paperclips: 0.5.

Overall rating 5, and I want this book!

Chris Kuzneski can be found here

The Cassini Division, Ken Macleod


1998, Orbit
240 pages
Science Fiction

As well as 21st century books, naturally books I review hail from the 20th Century. The Cassini Divison is beyond doubt a sci-fi lover's dream. Spaceships. Alien races who need nuking. Almost sentient spacesuits that can change swiftly from combat gear to pyjamas and a duvet. Not to mention Ellen's quick thinking mind which gets her into trouble as well as out of it.

Part of an elite force, acting to defend those in the Solar Union, the Cassini Division is Ellen's family. Initially on her own, she seeks out her target for extraction. As her mission progresses, the rest of her team accompany her on a mission which, if they fail, could wipe out humanity.

What appealed to me here was the fact that Ellen isn't developing her abilities, she already knows how to use her special suit. It's how she explains her world to her target, and the female who tags along with him. Through their experiences thoughts on morality and ethics are discussed at length. Life on board a spaceship has both highs and lows, all of which are delved into.

I definitely want a spacesuit. It has a mind of its own: tailoring clothes usually to the wearer's choice. Lace, trousers, dress - any material and any outfit can be created within a few seconds. No need for a wardrobe. Dirt is absorbed into the suit. Any unwanted particle is also absorbed into the suit. It can even - no, I mustn't tell you about what it can do to a person's soul. You'll have to read for yourself :)

Paperclips: 2 (reference to physical relations, some language)
TGB: 1 or 2 (I'm sure things got blown up...I've read 8 books since!)
Daggers: 1 (mild)
Tissues: 0

Overall rating: 5

I'm now more immersed in sci-fi than I ever have been. Now, where's my suit...

Ken Macleod can be found here.

Liked this? Try Hybrids

Eye of the Moon, and Eye of the Sun by Dianne Hofmeyr (Children's, 11 years +, 10E/10E)




2007, (Moon) 2008 (Sun) Simon and Schuster
313 pages (Moon), 325 (Sun)

Ancient Egypt continues to be a source of inspiration for stories. Eye of the Moon sees Isikara, daughter to the Priest and Embalmer for Sobek, the Egyptian crocodile god, exchange the safety of her old life for one fraught with danger. No longer will her days be filled with set duties helping her father and brother. Instead, she lives life on the run with Prince Tuthmosis. Who, according to the High Priest, is dead, buried with his mother.

Along the way the spirited Isikara teams with Anoukhet, a girl with a past, who helps her and the prince escape the clutches of the High Priest. It's a story of survival and courage, as well as a tale of how Isikara lost two of her fingers. The best part of this book, was that it outlines the details of the servants' lives in Egypt's royal Court. All the rituals, the different status' the servants had are clearly laid out here, and in the sequel, Eye of the Moon.

Eye of the Sun doesn't exactly have a HEA. The end was a real shock to me. It starts where Eye of the Moon left off. It contains the tale of Tuthmosis fight to defeat the High Priest, but doesn't just evolve around him and Isikara. The other characters in Eyes of the Moon have their story told in further detail, and from their own POV's. This enriched the secondary characters for me, although at times the switches of POV felt a little disjointed.

These 2 books made me wonder more about life in the royal court, and a desire to read more stories about it. There are a lot of female POV's, enough for my satisfaction. The fight scenes and male POV's were pleasant to read, and had me looking forward to them.

The twists and turns in this series had me open mouthed at many pages. A captivating, character driven tale.

Dianne Hofmeyr can be found here.

Daughter of Venice, A Novel by Donna Jo Napoli


2004, Walker Books
264
Teen/YA: historical

I love books based on historical incidents/eras, and not just for the costumes! I find the research which the author puts into the novel creates a rich story, teaching me a little about the life of that time. Daughter of Venice is no exception.

1592, in Venice (obviously...), Donata is born to a wealthy family. However, at this time such families usually only marry off one son, and one daughter. Being a twin, with an elder sister who'll become married, Donata has a rebellious streak. She longs to find out what life is outside the strict social rules that govern her life. So she takes matters into her own hands, dresses up in boys' clothes and ventures outside. There she meets Noe. Not only is he a boy, but he's a Jew. At a time when Christianity is the main religion, it proves a learning curb for her.

This is a tale of discovery. Donata learns more about life in Venice, which leads her to seek knowledge and figure out what her life goals are. Her adventures aren't without danger or edge of the seat moments. Her relationships with the rest of her family definitely shape the woman she'll end up becoming as an adult. There's a lot of love in her family, which makes a change from protagonists who don't get on with their kin. I read this in one sitting, and the time flew past with Donata's exploits.

Paperclips: 0
TGB: 0
Tissues: 2
Daggers: 0

Overall rating: 5. Another book I wish to own.

Donna Jo Napoli can be found here.

Liked this? Try The Lady in the Tower.

Urchin and the Heartstone, by M L McAllister


2006, Bloomsbury
361 pages
Childrens/MG,

I love Brian Jacques' tales of Redwall, and this 2nd book in the Mistmantle Chronicles runs along a similar vein.

I haven't actually read the first book, but I didn't feel as though I'd missed much out (although I'll read it when I can). This follows the tale of Urchin, who lives with his friend on an island, protected (mostly) from harm by the mists surrounding it. When a ship enters port, the animals rejoice and hold a banquet. Unfortunately the visitors aren't as peaceful as they seem. Young Urchin the squirrel, pale in colour (a rarity on the island) is kidnapped. Not only this, the precious heartstone which the young squirrel king Crispin needs for his coronation, is a fake. Urchin's friends do all they can to get him back, and find the true heartstone.

Cute and funny are two words to describe this story. I loved the attitudes of the different animals: the kings friends are determined to find him a wife, Fingal has a vendetta against watersnakes (I back him on that one). What unites Urchin's friends are their desire to get him back. Their determination shines through their actions. His enemies are united by the hunger for power, and greed.

Definitely a book for all the family

Paperclips: none
Tissues: 1 or 2
Overall rating: 5

Betrayal, by Fiona McIntosh


2006, Orbit
521 pages
Fantasy

Betrayal is book one of the Trinity trilogy. It tells the story of Tor, who has some magical powers, and the woman he loves, Alyssa. The two are separated from each other to take on a journey, one which will let them cross paths, but won't necessarily let them be together again. All is not it seems. People who seem gentle and kind hide great secrets.

This held a lot of appeal to me: a typical fantasy book, with good and evil constantly battling against each other. Both the hero and heroine have protectors, who are a crucial part of the story. There's magic not just in the power the characters control, but also in nature (I'll never look at a forest in the same way again).

I loved Alyssa, whose story was told alongside Tor's. She gains strength as the story unravels, learning how to use her power. There were countless moments where I held my breath to her fate, or cried for the injuries inflicted on her. For, unfortunately, this book contains a lot of content.

There's a rape scene, coarse language, adult situations.

There is the usual fighting, and journeying. I cheered when the main antagonist got injured. I had tears in my eyes in many places. I even enjoyed All, yes All of Tor's tale. Which is pretty unusual since I prefer female protagonists. The story was written in such a way that none of it was dull, all the rich details painting the world had me happily reading along.

I'll be reading the rest of this trilogy at some point, although due to content I won't be reading it again :)

Paperclip rating: 4
Dagger rating: 1-2
TGB: 1 (I think)
Tissue rating: 3

Overall rating: 4

Hybrids, David Thorpe


2007, HarperCollins
304 pages
Young Adult: Science Fiction

Set in a world like our own, in a place where a virus causes body parts to take on the form of technology, David Thorpe teaches not to judge by appearances alone.

The virus took away Johnny's face. The computer screen replacement has those of the Centre for Genetic Rehabilitation unit seeking him out, since he refuses to register as a hybrid and let his whereabouts be put under constant surveillance. Kestrella, daughter of a man who plays a role in this story, crosses paths with Johnny, changing his life forever. Intially he sees their encounter as a negative one, but over the course of the story he gains an unbreakable bond with her, while taking actions to help others.

I haven't read much sci-fi recently, and seem to have the initial reaction of wanting to put a book down when things are a bit strange (having a phone instead of a hand is strange in Kestrella's character). However, it was the character's attitudes to their changes which drew me in. They usually didn't see them as an impediment. Yes, the differences were something to hide at times, but most of the time they just got on with it. I think this is a brilliant book for those who are different from so-called 'normal' people. It doesn't stop them loving, or being loved. It doesn't stop them from making a difference in the world.

I couldn't predict where this story took me, and thoroughly enjoyed the biggest twist at the end. I'm one of those readers who wants 'more' from a book, and it would be great to see another book carrying on with the story where it ended here. For it isn't really the end at all, but another beginning.

Paperclip rating: 0
Tissue rating: 2

Overall rating: 5. I want this on my bookshelf!

The Harsh Cry of the Heron, by Lian Hearn

2006, Macmillan
631 pages

The epic tale set in feudal Japan which started with Across the Nightingale floor ends the tale of Takeo and his family in this installment.

As ever, the style of the writing took me to a land full of betrayal, fighting and sorrow. This book was by far the darker of the 4 books. The ending is satisfactory, not necessarily a HEA, but for those who read the previous three books knew there would be sorrow here.

The story is tied up well. Both old characters (Kaede, Takeo) and relatively new ones (his children - all of them) have their stories in a way that lets me access their characters on a deeper level than when they were mentioned by a different point of view. Lots of female POV's for this reviewer!

I do have several small gripes. Initially, (for about 60 pages), I felt a lot of back story was told. I feel this back story, filling in around 16 years from the last book, could have merited a novel of its own. Considering that Takeo's daughters, the twins Maya and Miki, and their elder sister Shigeko have a significant role in this book, having a book before it to introduce their characters and how they came to be who they are would have cut the feeling of being 'told' events.

I did like the level of darkness surrounding the twin's tale. There are several story twists which I won't put here, but my spine shivered in several places where Lian guided the story. Almost verging on the horror genre for me.

The paperclip level is high, due to the content of this book. Concepts that were touched upon in other books were depicted in more detail, that was too much for me. I only read on because I wanted to learn of the end. The fifth book, Heaven's Net is Wide, hit 5 paperclips and I put it down. I can possibly see why the content was put in, although there were a few points that I felt the imagination was quite capable of filling in the blanks. If you're looking for a PG book, this isn't one. It deals with adult situations, and a variety of relationships.

Paperclip rating: 4
Tissue rating: 3
Dagger rating: 3

Overall rating: 3 (due to content and more telling).

Despite the ratings, I'm glad I read this book to discover how the story ended. I feel there is room for more books in the series about Takeo's daughters' lives, which are bound to be interesting.

It was well written, and there is little to say

Friday 15 May 2009

Small review hiatus...and books coming my way!

It might be a few days before the next review comes up. I have read a book since Monday, but I'm currently ill and need total rest. I'm still reading, but need time before I post a review. There might be a small batch in one go, but I'm sure no-one here will mind!

And a shout out to Penguin publishers for being so nice and agreeing to send me some books to review! That has made my weekend :) Reviews will be posted here, once I've devoured the books.

ETA: books have arrived! Very *shiny* :)

Monday 11 May 2009

Brilliance of the Moon, by Lian Hern


Tales of the Otori book 3
2004, MacMillan

I think the library copy is different: its a hardback book, with this cover (one shown for the paperback version). That's why the publisher might be different to the paperback one with the same cover.

For the third time I'm taken away with where Lian takes Kaede and Takeo's story. This installment is darker than the others, with more heartache, violence and turns in the plot I couldn't have predicted.

I do like the brief character list at the beginning of the book. It was there in book 2, but I forgot to comment on it. The map gives an idea of where everything takes place, although to be fair I often don't look at maps more than once.

There is no-one who escapes from all this. Takeo faces life without Kaede. He has to make decisions which go against what he believed the future to hold for him. He demonstrates great leadership skills. The tough decisions he makes would be hard for anyone to make, but he does so knowing sacrifices sometimes are the only way for life to improve.

Kaede accepts a terrifying fate to keep her loved ones safe. My poor tummy turned upside down when the action that changes her life here happened. If I hadn't peeked at the end of this book, and then the end of the fourth, more tissues would have been needed. I was a little disappointed, considering how much of her view there initially was in the book that there wasn't a chapter before the final one, explaining what happened after a liberating event. But then the overall story arc is mostly Takeo's, and not much needs explaining. I just love Kaede!

A newcomer to the POV telling is Shizuka. Previously a maid of Kaede's, and one of the Tribe who wish to kill Takeo, her viewpoint on events provides greater understanding for why the Tribe act as they do. And, she's definitely not a hardhearted woman.

Content: I went very red at one point: just one paragraph which I understand why it was included, but the story would have been just fine without it.

Turns out I somehow misread part of book 2 (I blame the germs currently attacking me) and there was a non male-female brief relationship. If you'd like this explained, message me. This relationship gets implied in this 3rd installment, hence the high rating.

The violence here isn't just beating back enemies, it is a bit gory too. Beheadings mostly. Not something for the faint hearted.

The story isn't all doom and gloom, there are a few moments of peace, where the scenary and clothing (see? I'm totally obsessed with costumes in the Otori story) have my mind thirsting for me. From the limited knowledge of Japan I have through anime, japanese lessons and general knowledge, this series captures a great many of the unique customs of the island nation.

Dagger rating: maybe 2-3.
Paperclip: 3
Tissues: 3
TGB: 0

Despite the extra gore and blushable content, I still totally recommend this series.

The content ratings give it a 4/5 overall rating. I'm about to start the 4th book now, the final chapter in Kaede and Takeo's story. I know how it ends, but I still wish to see how it unfolds.

Sunday 10 May 2009

Grass for his Pillow, by Lian Hearn


Tales of the Otori book 2

2003, MacMillan


Did you really expect to review other books before I finish this series? I'm sure I have 4 of them, I'm hoping I have all 5.


This installment = wow! It should have a side label 'Kaede's' story' (yes, I can't figure out the punctuation for that). It's all about Kaede!


I'm beaming at the computer screen at how full of Kaede's life the story is. Takeo does play a role, but not so much. He's learning what life is in like in the Tribe, the ones who kidnapped him in the first book so they can teach him his powers. They aren't as friendly as they appear. He never forgets Kaede, and is happily reunited with her at the end.


As for Kaede, my admiration for her continues to grow. I've read several other tales where a young woman, similar to Kaede, goes through an awful lot and builds up political power. What makes Grass for His Pillow unique, in my eyes, is the level of detail that Lian Hearn uses to explain the transformation. Kaede never forgets Takeo, and strives to strengthen her own position as she can. Unfortunately she suffers a great loss that ultimately strengthens her resolve even more, and gives her the extra boost she needs to survive.


The writing style, just like the first painted the details clearly for me. I want the costumes in this book! My mind fills in the blanks and I can feel the material beneath my skin. I want to visit the mountains they journey through, and experience the wonders of watching birds on lakes.


Content: it gets a higher paperclip rating, a few incidents are rather shocking and imply a lot. They are few and tastefully written, so I would still read this. The violence I think is a little less gory than the last one. It's so nice to read a relatively smush free tale of romance.


The two different styles for POV's are used here, and still read smoothly. I definitely would like to own this series some day. Until then, the library might have me taking them out quite a bit.


Link for Lian Hearn is in the first review. The next book, Brilliance of the Moon, should be reviewed shortly!


Dagger rating: maybe 1.

Paperclip: 2

Tissues: 2

TGB: 0

Overall rating: 5/5


Across the Nightingale Floor by Lian Hearn (Young Adult, 10/10E)


Tales of the Otori book 1
2002, MacMillan

Content: fair amount of violence/conflict, mild blushables, tissues needed

Those of you who follow me on Nayu's Realm know how excited I'm getting about books. From the previous review, a new genre had opened up for me; military fantasy. This book, first in what was a trilogy, but now has five books (I think one is a prequel but I'm not certain), has me whoohooing a lot. It's set in Japan!!!! (for an anime/sushi/manga loving reviewer, this is lovely).

This book also had surprises.

#1 Again, a male protagonist! They're everywhere, I tell you. However, there is a second protagonist, who's female, and other strong female characters who play relatively major roles.

#2 Different styles of points of view are used. For the male, Takeo, first person is used. The style was well written, overall the writing style has me wanting to be back in ancient Japan. For the female, Kaede, the third person POV is used. I can't think off the top of my head a book which uses such different view points. I mentioned to a friend it was strange, but it works.

I couldn't stop reading. The style had my mind conjuring up a clear image of the surroudings. I felt strongly for Takeo, the horrors he faced and who he has to become by the end of the book. I was in near tears at some points for his behalf (rare with male POV). As for Kaede – she may not be an amazing fighter, but when it counts she can hold her own. I wished there were pictures of all the costumes here; having seen photos of kimonos and other Japanese outfits I'd have loved a gallery for this book. Clothes are normally a side issue in novels for me, but these captured my imagination.

Amidst the fighting, both open and discreet between the Japanese lords, is the underlying romance between Kaede and Takeo. It is delicately written, with perhaps 2 paragraphs which nearly had me thinking '!' but took events no further than necessary. The ending isn't a HEA by any means. But then, it is only the first book.

Looking back at the books I read, I discover a love for people who have a power or skill that they nurture of the course of the story, a love for values of honour, a love for teachers and guardians. All of these concepts are embraced in Takeo's story.

There isn't anything I can grumble about for this book, so I thought I'd explain the concept of a nightingale floor. Don't worry, this information is given in the book blurb. A nightingale floor sings for its owner: no-one is supposedly able to cross it without it 'singing' out at each footstep. That isn't the case for one character, which changes the course of the region's political history forever.

Originally I was going to review this series as a whole, but after reading AtNF, each book needs its own review.

Lian Hearn can be found here.

Midshipwizard Halcyon Blithe by James M Ward (Fiction, Fantasy, 8/10E)


2005, Tor, 288 pages

Content: a little fighting, lots of action

Before I get to the review, I would like to share a few surprises.

1) The protagonist is male.
I openly confess I prefer female protagonists. I relate to them easier. In my imagination, I am them as I read the book. I can truly transport myself into the world within the pages. I have read books with male protagonists, and lately, it seems like I'm reading more of them. I'm even enjoying it!

2) There's a new genre in fantasy – military sci-fi/fantasy!
After a recent trip to Maryland, home to the US naval Academy, I'm in a pro-military frame of mind, especially shis. When I saw the title for this book, I picked it up without reading the blurb. I'm over the moon that a whole sub-genre exists revolving around one of my current fascinations.

Now that's over with, on with the review!

As the title suggests, this book tells the story of Halcyon Blithe, a midshipwizard freshly out of training. For those thinking midship-what? A midshipman is the name awarded to the lowest (or, according to some sources, second lowest) rank in the US navy. In this story, Midshipwizard is exactly what it suggests: a wizard in the navy. Magic and warfare go hand in hand.

The thing which I like most about Halycon, is that he isn't perfect. He shines in some areas, and is very green in others. He makes mistakes in the story, mistakes which threaten the lives of everyone on board the living dragonboat. I found it was his character, and times humerous interactions with the rest of the crew which kept me reading. There are a few females, but no smush here!

I guessed wrongly about the end of the book, and who the traitor was. I immediately wanted to reread it to spot the clues hinting towards the traitor.

The only thing preventing me from giving this a full star rating is the fact that I kept thinking 'where's the action?'. Don't get me wrong, I loved learning all the ins and outs of life for the midshipwizard, the strange rituals which recruits don't hear about until they happen, the sheer volume of daily tasks that need performing on a ship. I loved the idea of a living boat (well, I grew up with a few living space ships thanks to Anne McCaffrey). The major plot line remained subtle for a fair amount of the story. When things heated up, they did move along at a reasonable pace, and there were moments of 'how will Halcyon survive?'

The good news is, there's a sequel available now: Dragonfrigate Wizard Halcyon Blithe. I'm hoping to get my hands on a copy so I can review it here.

James M Ward doesn't appear to have a home page. There are several sites hosting information about them, so go check them out.

Disclaimer: if any information in this review is incorrect, please contact me so I can amend it.

Thursday 7 May 2009

The Lady in the Tower, by Marie-Louise Jensen (Young Adult, 10E/10E)

2009, OUP 336 pages

Content: mild romance, a little violence, tissues needed

For the observant among you, this is the second book written by Marie-Louise Jensen which I've reviewed. I unashamedly say this is my favourite so far.

Set in the 1800's, at the time when Henry the Eighth was making his way through his wives, Eleanor's life is turned upside down when her mother is arrested on accusation of witchcraft. She's taken away from her daughter, and locked up in a tower, with only the chaplain visiting her.

The story evolves around the fiesty Eleanor, who isn't like other girls. She can't sew well, she adores horse riding (and jousting), and isn't afraid of taking care of herself. Inevitably this gets her into trouble, not really the best idea when people are aware that she's trying to free her mother, but the end is most satisfactory. If you want to see what happens when a betrothal is forced upon here, go read the book!

Eleanor's spirit shines through the story. I'm glad I had several hours in a row to read this, because my tummy somersaulted, tightened and leapt for joy at so many places that there wasn't a good place to stop. Just when I thought things were improving, suddenly a plot twist appeared. Eleanor suffers a great deal in this story. She gets betrayed, makes mistakes which could harm others, yet somehow keeps a sense of humour throughout it all. She reminds me an awful lot of myself, although she does have slightly more courage than I do.

Unlike the last book, the ending wasn't a total surprise for me – I'd had my suspicions throughout the book, and was happily proved right. I want to read more about Eleanor, and her future life. She's so plucky that its not fair to keep her adventures to one book.

Prominent places/characters: well, its set in England and I've actually visited a few of places mentioned in the book so that adds an extra dimension when reading it. Some characters are down-right evil, others are two-faced, and thankfully some are friendly and likeable.

Summary: great for the action loving, fiesty heroine readers. Add in horses and fine costumes, and this reviewer is extremely happy.

Marie-Louise Jensen can be found here.

Liked this? Try Daughter of Venice.

Wednesday 6 May 2009

A Sorcerer's Treason by Sarah Zettel (Fiction, Fantasy, 8/10E)



Paperback, Voyager, Harper Collins Publisher, 2002, 595 pages

Content: Lots of tension, some blushables, tissues needed

Sorcerers and Sorceresses. Witches and animal spirits. The world of the dead, the world of the living. Zombie like creatures. All are in this well-written, first volume of the Isavalla trilogy.

Nothing in this book is at it seems. A lighthouse keeper as a heroine is an unusual choice, but it provides a platform for Bridget to meet the Sorcerer Kalami. Unlike the other sailors she rescues, Kalami presents a dilemma for Bridget. No matter what she does, he's stays by her side until she agrees to go back to his world with him. A world seeped in lies, deceptions, and disguises, which has everyone – the dowager Empress, the Empress, the Emperor, the guards, the handmaidens/servants – wrapped up so tightly that it takes Bridget's appearance to disrupt life.

There is little more I can say on the story without giving any of this well constructed novel. Initially I was rather confused about all the alliances and plots. It seemed every time I turned the page another layer threw itself on the already quite high mountain of mystery. And yet, by the end I understood it all very well.

The characters certainly aren't 2D. It took a while until I really connected with Bridget, I preferred the Empress Ananda. What Ananda goes through tweaked my emotions, something that didn't happen for Bridget until at least halfway through. I did get there eventually; it felt like her character suddenly blossomed out and became the type of protagonist I adore reading about; quick thinking and strong willed. There isn't a character I didn't care for; the secondary characters are fleshed out and either had me cheering them on or praying they met disasters.

There were moments when I nearly put the book down: certain things were very easy for Bridget to do, there wasn't always a challenge for her. I'm glad I stuck it out and kept going for the action picks up just as her character matures. I enjoyed the use of magic here, how it's twisted for evil purposes as well as good.

Blushables – yes. I would have liked to say 1 paperclip, since initially there was just 1 page, but near there end there are a few more pages with more detail so I raise the paperclip rating to 2. If what happened at the end had occurred earlier on in the novel, I would have put it down for fear the novel carried on in the same style. It was so near the end that I hastily skim read it, with blushes, until I reached safer ground. I wouldn't want this to put people off, so again if you want to know which pages to miss, let me know.

Sarah Zettel can be found here. There are several more series besides the Isavalta trilogy. Go check them out.

Saturday 2 May 2009

Between Two Seas by Marie-Louise Jensen (Young Adult, 10/10E)




2008, Oxford University Press
305 pages

Content: lots of tension, tissues needed

This is what I call a journey book. Set in 1885, Marianne leaves Grimsby, England, after her mother's death in search for her father who is in Denmark, the land of his birth. I actually haven't been to Grimsby – might make it there one day.

Initially, I thought this book was a little slow. I'm nothing against slow books, but I like them action packed and it can take a while for me to settle to the different pace. That happened quite a few chapters in, but from that moment on I was hooked and hated putting this book down.

Marianne's character develops from someone who I feel is naïve to a very strong young woman. Her stubborn nature exists at the beginning, but by the end she isn't someone I'd mess with. The other characters, such as Peter and Mikkel all make a difference in her new life in Denmark. When a new life is thoroughly planned, it can still be daunting for the person involved. Due to circumstance, Marianne wasn't able to plan her new life; this is her story of adapting to life in a strange land, where she doesn't speak the language and few speak English.

I identified with her because of all the sewing she does! That's always a bonus, when a character has a similar hobby to mine.

Reading how kind people are in this book, the hospitality they offer for Marianne makes me wonder what happens to girls like her now, in the 21st century. People wouldn't be so eager to provide board and lodging. Many – shamefully myself included – would doubt her motives and close the door on her. I would have helped her all I could, but thanks to the con artists of the world I'm more sceptical of people in need.

This is more a character driven than an action driven book, if I've interpreted those concepts correctly. I enjoyed it as much as a fast paced book because of all the twists and turns in Marianne's life which often had me going 'oh no'. She's not perfect, which makes her more human. As both a reader and a writer, I often try to guess the ending of a novel. I failed completely on this one, and went 'what?' when the end unraveled.

Go check out Marie-Louise's website.Her next book, The Lady In The Tower, is currently on sale - and in my local library! I'll give a review when I get my hands on it.