Christy Trujillo, who is totally nice, is releasing her next novel, True North, tomorrow! She's having a release event, which you're all invited to so check it out.
True North by Christy Trujillo Release!
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Christy Trujillo, who is totally nice, is releasing her next novel, True North, tomorrow! She's having a release event, which you're all invited to so check it out.
Review: Wisdom's Kiss by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Wisdom's Kiss by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Copy Courtesy of Netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Already Released
Summary
Three people are brought together to save Montagne from certain destruction.
Commentary
The writing shifted through multiple different formats (3rd person omni prose, letters, play, 3rd limited prose) which made reading very choppy. I read through about the first 100 pages and really had no sense of the characters or what was happening because of the constant shifting so I stopped reading it.
All told, supposedly there are 7 viewpoints although because I never knew who was who because they also seemed to all have nicknames which were used inconsistently. The characters might have been interesting for all that I couldn't tell them apart.
Honestly, there are better and easier to read books out there.
Star Rating: 0/5.0 - Mostly Structural
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Third Sentence Thursday (#44)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Grab the Code
Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to sculpts castles out of clouds!
1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!
"She was right." -Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez
o_0 Who was right?! About what?! And maybe there's a cute boy ^.~ I know, I'm evil ^,..,^
Low Rating Books vs Low Rating Books (There is a Difference)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
So, a lot of bloggers have commented on low ratings some have retracted their ratings systems, others don't see a point in posting low rating reviews, or a myriad of other opinions and combinations of dealing with things. I will continue to post low ratings and negative reviews because I blog to express my opinions on all books whether good or bad. I think it's important for you to know what I like and what I don't so that you, the reader, know what things annoy me because they may in fact be things you like.
Aside from things I dislike though, there are books which I think have structural flaws (shallow main characters, information dumping, implausible settings, lack of research, etc). So from now on, for low rating books (anything under 3.0 so a rating of 2.5 or less) I will make an extra notation as to whether the low rating is due to mostly structural or mostly elements that I just didn't like (love at first sight for example). Granted, I will make that clear in the reviews, but I get that some people only look at the star rating line ^.~
I know a lot of you have opinions on this subject so tell me what you think!
Aside from things I dislike though, there are books which I think have structural flaws (shallow main characters, information dumping, implausible settings, lack of research, etc). So from now on, for low rating books (anything under 3.0 so a rating of 2.5 or less) I will make an extra notation as to whether the low rating is due to mostly structural or mostly elements that I just didn't like (love at first sight for example). Granted, I will make that clear in the reviews, but I get that some people only look at the star rating line ^.~
I know a lot of you have opinions on this subject so tell me what you think!
Taiwan Trip Recapped!
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
So there were a couple requests for info on my trip to Taiwan so here we go ^.^
I generally have a terrible memory for taking pictures as I've mentioned before so.. we'll try to have some pictures, but don't expect anything complete~~
I was there for 2 weeks total, which is longer than I've been in awhile although perhaps not as long as I would've liked to be there. I spent most of my time in Taipei, which is the capitol. There, I did many tourist-y things like going to night markets where there is much eating and shopping. What's nice about the night markets is that they are frequented by people who live in Taiwan so they are less tourist traps and more just fun places to go.
Boyfriend wanted to try snake meat at one of the night markets (see below) so we tried that.
It was chewy and a tad too salty
I also got Boyfriend to try a vegetarian buffet (run by a Buddhist organization and frequented by monks) which he declared a great success. These buffets have a lot of variety and just about everything was really tasty. They have these hand rolls that I really wish I had had enough stomach to eat more of. Unfortunately no picture because I am fail.
We also got to try lots of restaurants which have really fresh seafood. As in, they get their fish (including shellfish) off boats in the morning, and the fish are then stored in tanks until they are chosen to be eaten (you get to choose which ones you want or you can just note what type and have the seller/chefs choose).
I should probably emphasize at this point that a lot of the trip centered around eating. The Taiwanese are obsessed with eating, and everyone likes to take pictures of their food. Since Taipei especially is packed in really tight, you really don't have to go much farther than downstairs (most people live in flats/condos/apartments) to find food.
We did visit an aboriginal reservation/preservation area that also had an amusement park attached:
Aboriginal Cultural Village (this was more a display than anything else)
The amusement park part. Boyfriend informed me that the roller coaster was pretty awesome although I didn't go on it because well... I'm not a fan of roller coasters.
We did also visit a Memorial for one of the important figures in Taiwanese history although the styling of the memorial has made people comment that it looks like Lincoln T_T
I think I mentioned before that we did explore other parts of Taiwan besides Taipei (which is in the Northmost part of Taiwan). One of the places was this wilderness area surrounding a waterfall:
There was quite a bit of hiking to get around it and to see some of the other cool stuff in the area. Also, we took one of the best scenery pictures of the trip (at least in my mind) at just a little bit beyond the base of the waterfall.
All in all it was a really fun trip although it was during the hot and wet season ( Boyfriend was overwhelmed from the heat and humidity, and I probably didn't drink enough water). The food was delicious, and the relatives were fun as usual. I'm excited to bring Boyfriend back sometime (this was his first trip there).
I generally have a terrible memory for taking pictures as I've mentioned before so.. we'll try to have some pictures, but don't expect anything complete~~
I was there for 2 weeks total, which is longer than I've been in awhile although perhaps not as long as I would've liked to be there. I spent most of my time in Taipei, which is the capitol. There, I did many tourist-y things like going to night markets where there is much eating and shopping. What's nice about the night markets is that they are frequented by people who live in Taiwan so they are less tourist traps and more just fun places to go.
Boyfriend wanted to try snake meat at one of the night markets (see below) so we tried that.
It was chewy and a tad too salty
I also got Boyfriend to try a vegetarian buffet (run by a Buddhist organization and frequented by monks) which he declared a great success. These buffets have a lot of variety and just about everything was really tasty. They have these hand rolls that I really wish I had had enough stomach to eat more of. Unfortunately no picture because I am fail.
We also got to try lots of restaurants which have really fresh seafood. As in, they get their fish (including shellfish) off boats in the morning, and the fish are then stored in tanks until they are chosen to be eaten (you get to choose which ones you want or you can just note what type and have the seller/chefs choose).
I should probably emphasize at this point that a lot of the trip centered around eating. The Taiwanese are obsessed with eating, and everyone likes to take pictures of their food. Since Taipei especially is packed in really tight, you really don't have to go much farther than downstairs (most people live in flats/condos/apartments) to find food.
We did visit an aboriginal reservation/preservation area that also had an amusement park attached:
Aboriginal Cultural Village (this was more a display than anything else)
The amusement park part. Boyfriend informed me that the roller coaster was pretty awesome although I didn't go on it because well... I'm not a fan of roller coasters.
We did also visit a Memorial for one of the important figures in Taiwanese history although the styling of the memorial has made people comment that it looks like Lincoln T_T
I think I mentioned before that we did explore other parts of Taiwan besides Taipei (which is in the Northmost part of Taiwan). One of the places was this wilderness area surrounding a waterfall:
There was quite a bit of hiking to get around it and to see some of the other cool stuff in the area. Also, we took one of the best scenery pictures of the trip (at least in my mind) at just a little bit beyond the base of the waterfall.
All in all it was a really fun trip although it was during the hot and wet season ( Boyfriend was overwhelmed from the heat and humidity, and I probably didn't drink enough water). The food was delicious, and the relatives were fun as usual. I'm excited to bring Boyfriend back sometime (this was his first trip there).
IMM (Sept 25)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Hosted by The Story Siren
So it is time again to give the books/swag I've received in the mail! It's extra long this week because I've been gone so long. So, without further ado...
Witchlanders by Lena Coakley
Epic fantasy with witches!
Havoc by Jeff Sampson
Continuing saga of the Deviants!
Incarnate by Jodi Meadows
First new soul in the incarnation cycle in thousands of years.
Sweet Venom by Tera Lynn Childs
Three descendants of Medusa!
Goliath by Scott Westerfeld
Finale to the awesome steampunk trilogy!
God's Eye by A.J. Scudiere
Strange occurrences lead to an epic battle.
The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Paranormal by David Borgenicht, Ben H. Winters
The title says it all.
I also got some awesome swag from Stephanie Dray for her upcoming book Song of the Nile!
So I Was Away For Awhile
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
...and I went to this place called Taiwan. It was full of shopping, gorgeous scenery such as the picture you see above, and oh so much food. So, just in case you're curious, here are some pictures from around Taiwan. (Mostly just scenery pictures)
View from a Fisherman's Wharf of Taipei
Stream next to a camping site
Wicked awesome looking tree
Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial Hall
Old style town/market
Bones!
Countryside
These bakers have some skillaz~~
Black Swans!
Of course there were more photos which I took, but I didn't want to overwhelm you guys. I hope you guys get a chance to visit Taiwan sometime, it's a place I love ^.^
Song of the Nile Giveaway!
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
So, Song of the Nile by Stephanie Dray is all set to be released on Oct 4th! Are you excited, and isn't the cover gorgeous? In preparation for its release, I got a whole bunch of swag that I'd love to share with you guys!
Here's what you could win!
I have 4 sets to giveaway of
1 x Sample of First Chapter of Song of the Nile
1 x Song of the Nile bookmark
1 x Lily of the Nile booksmark
1 x Selena romance trading card
Some Rules:
1) Open to US residents.
2) Must fill out the form (also embedded below)!
3) Must be 13 years or older to win.
4) There will be 4 winners!
5) Contest Ends Sept 30, 2011
Third Sentence Thursday (#43)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Grab the Code
Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to wander around in the forest!
1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!
"Because most of us work in the dark, we want our bodies to lie in the sun" -Mastiff by Tamora Pierce
I'm still not over my squee-ness that this book is finally coming out. This is such a grim sentence although this series has been generally grim so I guess it's no surprise. In case it's not entirely obvious which bodies, the author means the bodies of those that are dead.
Review: The Iron Witch (The Iron Witch #1) by Karen Mahoney
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney
Copy Courtesy of Flux
Already Published
Summary
Donna has iron tattoos all over her hands that she keeps covered with gloves so that no one else sees them. Her former classmates thinks she's a freak, but when the evil wood elves appear in the city, she may have to accept what she is and face them.
Commentary
There are books that tuck in pieces of world-building here and there, that weave the history of a place beautifully into the story, this is not one of those books. Donna has a best friend who is her very bestest friend, but his place in the story is really as a prop for Donna to tell the history of the story and for her to have someone to rescue.
There is never a sense that Donna has any idea what she is doing despite being trained in this mythical world for the last seven or eight years. There is all too much time spent telling the reader how Donna is and not enough time by far showing the reader. I think this is probably the biggest failing of this book.
I had really hoped this book would be good, but it seems that is not the case. Perhaps others will think differently, but I can't recommend this book.
Star Rating: 1.0/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Books the Kitty Is Waiting For! (Sept 18)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
It is time again to share a couple books that I'm looking forward to reading!
When the Sea is Rising Red by Cat Hellisen
Comes out February 28, 2012
Initially the cover drew me in, but then I read that it was about a magical (possibly) dystopian society, and well, I needed to read it. If this debut can live up to its summary, I think this will be an author to watch for years to come.
Summary from Goodreads
In sixteen-year-old Felicita’s world, magic is strictly controlled—or so those in power like to believe. After her dearest friend, Ilven, kills herself to escape an arranged marriage, Felicita chooses freedom over privilege. She fakes her own death and leaves her sheltered life as one of Pelimburg’s magical elite behind. Living in the slums, scrubbing dishes for a living, she falls for charismatic Dash while also becoming fascinated with vampire Jannik. Then something shocking washes up on the beach: Ilven’s death has called out of the sea a dangerous, wild magic. Felicita must decide whether her loyalties lie with the family she abandoned . . . or with those who would twist this dark power to destroy Pelimburg’s caste system, and the whole city along with it.
The Forgetting Curve by Angie Smibert
Comes out April 2012
When I read Memento Nora (the first in this series) I was struck by how much story Angie packed into her book, and I'm excited to see where else she takes us in this one. The main character is different in this one, but characters from the previous book will make appearances. This one promises to explore even more deeply the dark shadows of a world where forgetting is THE lifestyle.
Summary from Goodreads
Aiden Nomura likes to open doors—especially using his skills as a hacker—to see what’s hidden inside. He believes everything is part of a greater system: the universe. The universe shows him the doors, and he keeps pulling until one cracks open. Aiden exposes the flaw, and the universe—or someone else—will fix it. It’s like a game.
Until it isn’t.
When a TFC opens in Bern, Switzerland, where Aiden is attending boarding school, he knows things are changing. Shortly after, bombs go off within quiet, safe Bern. Then Aiden learns that his cousin Winter, back in the States, has had a mental breakdown. He returns to the US immediately.
But when he arrives home in Hamilton, Winter’s mental state isn’t the only thing that’s different. The city is becoming even stricter, and an underground movement is growing.
Along with Winter’s friend, Velvet, Aiden slowly cracks open doors in this new world. But behind those doors are things Aiden doesn’t want to see—things about his society, his city, even his own family. And this time Aiden may be the only one who can fix things... before someone else gets hurt.
When the Sea is Rising Red by Cat Hellisen
Comes out February 28, 2012
Initially the cover drew me in, but then I read that it was about a magical (possibly) dystopian society, and well, I needed to read it. If this debut can live up to its summary, I think this will be an author to watch for years to come.
Summary from Goodreads
In sixteen-year-old Felicita’s world, magic is strictly controlled—or so those in power like to believe. After her dearest friend, Ilven, kills herself to escape an arranged marriage, Felicita chooses freedom over privilege. She fakes her own death and leaves her sheltered life as one of Pelimburg’s magical elite behind. Living in the slums, scrubbing dishes for a living, she falls for charismatic Dash while also becoming fascinated with vampire Jannik. Then something shocking washes up on the beach: Ilven’s death has called out of the sea a dangerous, wild magic. Felicita must decide whether her loyalties lie with the family she abandoned . . . or with those who would twist this dark power to destroy Pelimburg’s caste system, and the whole city along with it.
The Forgetting Curve by Angie Smibert
Comes out April 2012
When I read Memento Nora (the first in this series) I was struck by how much story Angie packed into her book, and I'm excited to see where else she takes us in this one. The main character is different in this one, but characters from the previous book will make appearances. This one promises to explore even more deeply the dark shadows of a world where forgetting is THE lifestyle.
Summary from Goodreads
Aiden Nomura likes to open doors—especially using his skills as a hacker—to see what’s hidden inside. He believes everything is part of a greater system: the universe. The universe shows him the doors, and he keeps pulling until one cracks open. Aiden exposes the flaw, and the universe—or someone else—will fix it. It’s like a game.
Until it isn’t.
When a TFC opens in Bern, Switzerland, where Aiden is attending boarding school, he knows things are changing. Shortly after, bombs go off within quiet, safe Bern. Then Aiden learns that his cousin Winter, back in the States, has had a mental breakdown. He returns to the US immediately.
But when he arrives home in Hamilton, Winter’s mental state isn’t the only thing that’s different. The city is becoming even stricter, and an underground movement is growing.
Along with Winter’s friend, Velvet, Aiden slowly cracks open doors in this new world. But behind those doors are things Aiden doesn’t want to see—things about his society, his city, even his own family. And this time Aiden may be the only one who can fix things... before someone else gets hurt.
Review: The High Lord (Black Magician Trilogy #1) by Trudi Canavan
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
The High Lord by Trudi Canavan
This is the third book in the trilogy, and the review may contain some spoilers if you haven't read book one and two. You should check out my review of The Magicians' Guild (book one) and my review of The Novice (book two).
Summary
As Sonea gets to know the High Lord better, she learns that the evil he is dabbling with may be related to an ancient enemy just waiting its chance to take over. Can Sonea navigate these treacherous plans and survive?
Commentary
If nothing else, Trudi is completely willing to do evil things to her characters. Did I mention the tension these books have. Yikes! Every time I hope it breaks, I just get wound up even tighter.
We get to spend more time with Cery in this one, which was kind of fun although I wish we had seen more of him in the last book since it feels like we didn't get to see his character development. He's kind of badass now, and I really like the trap things that he sets up (yes, I know you have no idea what I'm talking about). Trust me they're pretty cool.
I do wish it had ended on a different note because as I've mentioned before, I like my satisfying happy endings, but it is in the style of writing throughout this trilogy so I won't say that it wasn't fitting.
Star Rating: 3.0/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Review: The Novice (Black Magician Trilogy #2) by Trudi Canavan
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
The Novice by Trudi Canavan
This is the second book in the trilogy, and the review may contain some spoilers if you haven't read book one. You should check out my review of The Magicians' Guild (book one).
Summary
Sonea is the only member of the Magicians' Guild who is not a noble. This, unfortunately, means just about everyone is really mean to her until the High Lord intervenes. His intervention though isn't all it's cracked up to be though.
Commentary
This book, as with the first, is filled with a lot of tense scenes and not a whole lot of comedic relief which wears on me a bit although plot wise I am sucked in. I want to know what happens although we keep getting pulled off to follow Dannyl who is off being an ambassador.
It feels like there are two main characters in this book because we spend so much time with Dannyl, and while his story is interesting, I'm not as invested in his character because the first book was all about Sonea. I also want to punch every single person who is mean to Sonea. The author steals your hope little by little that things will turn out ok for Sonea, which was different and interesting but made me like the book less at the same time.
Again, not a happy book, so don't expect it. It's still an interesting read with characters that I care about, but a little too much meandering off on Dannyl's journey.
Star Rating: 3.0/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Third Sentence Thursday (#42)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Grab the Code
Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to eat Cheez-Its!
1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!
So, I know I already posted the review for Michael Vey last week, but I wanted to feature it again because I liked it so much so:
"Not yet, the well-dressed man on the other end of the phone replied." -Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 by Richard Paul Evans
Something about the emphasis about how the man is well-dressed makes me think ominous things although that might also have to do with the fact that I've read the book already ^,..,^ What has the man not yet? Oh the suspense for you! Hehe, ok I'm being evil. Go read this book already!
Review: The Pace (The Pace #1) by Selena Shorts
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
The Pace by Shelena Shorts
Summary
Weston is not immortal, but he doesn't age. Sophie is strangely drawn to him, and she also wants to know why his body does such strange things. Also
Commentary
My biggest gripe with this book: UC Berkeley doesn't have a medical school. Really, how hard would it have been for the author to do basic research BEFORE writing this book. It's not like Berkeley hides what schools it has >.>
My other big gripe: it claims that the blood from an animal injected into a human will completely overtake the human system, change the cells - in essence all of the DNA. If this were presented as magical blood, I would've been OK with it, but NO it's an old science experiment that did this.
Also, the male love interest strikes me as a total pushover stalker, and there's love at first sight which is somewhat nullified by 'historical' stuff, but I still wasn't all that pleased. In short, I did not like this book; it made me angry.
Star Rating: 1.0/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Review: Dragon's Egg by Robert L. Forward
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Dragon's Egg by Robert L. Forward
Summary
A neutrino star has made its way into our solar system, and on it live a race called the cheela. Because they move at the speed of neutrinos, a year of their life takes place in less than a minute of our time. This also means that their speed of evolution is incredible. From the time the humans notice the star, to our meeting with the cheela, and the brief time we talk to them, the evolution of the cheela is incredible. This book follows that evolution.
Commentary
Wow! Just, wow! What an incredibly thought provoking book. Each epoch of the cheela civilization is sketched in poignant vignettes, and we don't really stay with any one cheela for very long because we are spanning hundreds of millions of years in their evolution, but this journey is so great.
Forward manages to imbue each cheela we meet with just enough personality for a connection to be made as well as give us an overview how everything is changing even as the humans make their 'slow' way toward the inevitable meeting. It's tough to describe just how awesome this journey through time is. Imagine a time lapse video of a civilization in book form, but so much more poignant.
Now, there is quite a bit of science terminology at the beginning of the book, but for the most part if you don't understand, it doesn't matter for the story. Basically, don't let the fact that this is a hard sci-fi book stop you from enjoying the incredible journey it can take you on. Piece of advice though, the timestamps are very important for the story so pay attention to them.
Oh, also there is a sequel to this story, so even though this book is really awesome as a stand along, I will read the sequel at some point and post a review.
Star Rating: 5.0/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Review: Curse of the Bane (The Last Apprentice #2) by Joseph Delaney
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Curse of the Bane by Joseph Delaney
This is an audiobook review.
*Note this is the second book in the series. You can take a gander at the review for the first book Revenge of the Witch.
Summary
Thomas is learning more about being a spook, and now he's accompanying the Spook to Priest town where they are really not welcome. He and the Spook are going to try to take care of a monster called The Bane which has poisoned the minds of the priests in Priest Town, but of course, that's easier said than done. Also, we get to see Alice again.
Commentary
The second book in this series also had it's slightly comical moments although I think the first book did it better. There are still the elements of a horror story here so some gruesome images although toned down for a younger audience.
Delaney manages the expectations of the reader really well yet again. I love the way he builds tension for the most part. I do think some of the moments could have been a bit faster, but I think my feelings may have more to do with my impatience with listening to an audiobook though although the narrator really does a great job with the voices again. I hope he continues to voice the other books.
At this point, I am still happy with this series although I can see the style losing its luster for me. You should definitely give this series a try though.
Star Rating: 3.5/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Visitng Sf? Borderlands is a Must See!
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
image from Borderlands site
Today I would like to introduce you to one of my local indy book stores which I LOVE. It's called Borderlands, and it is located in the Mission District of San Francisco. It's really easy to get to since it is located only about 4 blocks from either 16th or 24th st BART stations, and you can get delicious Mexican food after you visit the store.
They carry an incredible array of Sci-Fi and Fantasy books (they also have a section where you can pick up used books). This place has such incredible character. The staff are helpful and fun to talk to, and longtime customers trust their recommendations.
If you happen to be there when an author you like is having a signing, definitely head in because well 1)you like the author and 2) the space is intimate although they can hold a decent sized crowd, which makes hearing easy, and definitely gives you a chance to feel like you're getting personal attention from the author.
I've had the privilege to meet Jacqueline Carey and John Scalzi there, and I'm looking forward to attending more events.
OK, so an address:
866 Valencia St.
San Francisco CA 94110
URL:
http://www.borderlands-books.com/contact.html
Their Phone:
Regular: 415.824.8203
Toll Free: 888.893.4008
Basically, if you love Sci-Fi Fantasy books and are in San Francisco whether living here or visiting, there is EVERY REASON for you to visit this place.
the small print: I am not affiliated with Borderlands; I just really love them.
Review: Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 (Michael Vey #1) by Richard Paul Evans
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 by Richard Paul Evans
Copy Courtesy of Simon and Schuster
Already Published
Summary
Michael Vey has never fit in due in part to his Tourette's syndrome and also the constant moves he's had since he was younger. Michael, though, has power he can deliver very powerful electric shocks, and when the most popular girl in school reveals that she too has a special power, they accidentally alert a very powerful organization to their existence. One which will stop at nothing to control them.
Commentary
Ok, so the basics of this plot are very typical kind of mutant children (super-hero) and evil organizations, but the execution puts this story at the top of the heap. You might not think a lot about research for a book like this, but this author has done his homework from the thoughts and actions of someone with Tourette's to the mechanics of electricity in various situations.
Michael is bumbling at times, but he's got a lot of spunk which really made me want to cheer him on. Also, while there is a lot of information that he needs to convey about himself and his abilities, there is never a feeling that the author is just having an info-dump and plausibility be damned.
There is a secondary character called Ostin (pronounced Austin), who is incredibly endearing. He's a know-it-all and likes to spout off facts about everything, but instead of glossing over his lines with summaries, the author actually puts in the relevant facts that Ostin says. These little additions really built up the character and made him realistic despite the incredible claims on his intellect.
You NEED to read this book. It's got just the perfect mix of action, suspense, interpersonal relationships, and character building. I am eagerly (did I mention eagerly?) awaiting the next book in the series.
Star Rating: 4.5/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Review: The Falling Machine (The Society of Steam #1) by Andrew P. Mayer
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
The Falling Machine by Andrew P. Mayer
Copy Courtesy of Pyr Books
Already Published
Summary
Sarah's father is a member of the Paragons, a group of super heroes with steampunk weapons that fight off the bad guys, but when the leader of this group is assassinated in front of her, it may be up to Sarah and the Automaton (the leader's greatest creation, a robot with really good AI) to save the day. Of course, this is complicated by the fact that in her day and age, women are basically objects to be possessed by men.
Commentary
Ok, I will admit this book may seem slow at times (I was perfectly happy with the speed), but oh the steampunkery and sleuthing! I also love how the author keeps you guessing as to whether a character will be able to get out of a tough situation, and if they do, how on earth they did it without making the reader agonize for too long.
Despite the multiple points of views, each viewpoint was delineated by chapters and it is very clear from the beginning who you are following so I never lost track. There is a lot of male chauvinism in the book, but it was appropriate to the era this book was set in although I still wanted to smack some of the male characters.
I think this was a really good addition to the Steampunk genre even though it did end on a major cliff-hanger that really leaves you going noooooo I need answers! I'm looking forward to seeing what the author does with the next book (Hearts of Smoke and Steam).
Star Rating: 4.0/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Third Sentence Thursday (#41)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Grab the Code
Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to wander around in the forest!
1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!
"Sarah and Nathaniel stood nearby, looking up at the old man, quietly and respectfully waiting for him to continue, but before he could say another word, his intended dramatic pause was broken by a long, throaty groan rising up from behind them." -The Falling Machine by Andrew P. Mayer
That's quite a long sentence. One gets the feel that the author might be a tad long-winded or perhaps it's just an allusion to the old man since this seems like a lecture. I wonder who the interrupter is though!
Review:The Pearl Wars (Skyship Academy #1) by Nick James
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
The Pearl Wars by Nick James
Copy Courtesy of Flux
Release Date: September 8, 2011
Summary
Earth relies on the energy of the Pearls to survive after multiple cataclysmic attacks take place. Jesse is a rather inept Skyship Academy student, and Cassius is a much beloved Surface Pearlhound in training. When their paths cross, unexplained powers emerge, and well, the Pearls will take on a whole new meaning.
Commentary
I wanted to like this book because it promised to be a romance-light sci-fi/action heavy book. While it did deliver those parts of it, I didn't develop much of an emotional connection with Jesse or Cassius (the latter of whom had a very self-important, holier-than-thou attitude which made me want to smack him).
Jesse, I think, had more 'screen' time, and his motivations were better revealed. There just didn't seem to be enough back story and/or maybe it was just that he didn't seem to have anything that was important to him even while he's moving full speed toward his goal.
The premise was intriguing while the world-building was decent though not spectacular, but what I have perceived as weak characterization is perhaps a big part of why the revelations felt less poignant. Granted I thought Maze Runner (the author's book who is the prominent blurb-er for this one) was pretty weak on characterization too, and I'm guessing this one is supposed to appeal to that audience, so you may want to check it out for yourself.
Star Rating: 2.5/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Review: Blood Rights (House of Comarré #1) by Kristen Painter
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
Blood Rights by Kristen Painter
Copy Courtesy of Orbit Books
Release Date September 27, 2011
Summary
Chrysabelle is a Comarre, and that basically means she is really tasty blood for rich vampires. Now though, her patron (well owner more like) is dead, and she runs away unfortunately straight into the lair of another vampire, Malkolm. Unbeknownst to either of them, the death of Chrysabelle's master has set off a chain of events that will threaten the balance between the supernatural and the mortal worlds.
Commentary
The gold on the cover really made me want to stroke it, not that this really has to do with the content of the book. Anyway, Painter has built an interesting vampire society around these Comarré, and while it's not as elegant as I might wish, there turns out to be a surprising amount of depth to the world.
This story takes place in 2067 although for a good deal of it, the technology doesn't seem to reflect that since the supernatural set doesn't seem to like modern tech. I'm not entirely sure why the author chose the future as a setting if it doesn't play much of a role although there were modern-ish night clubs, which I guess required a less historical setting.
I think in some ways, Malkolm is the more interesting character although Chrysabelle also has some revelations, but she has a tad too much damsel in distress vibe for my taste. This was a political intrigue driven novel (in many respects), and well that's right up my alley, so I enjoyed this ^.^ I hope the next book is as good.
Star Rating: 3.5/5.0
For an explanation of the Star Rating go here.
Labor Day Readathon Wrap-up
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
So I managed to read 4 books!
Crossed by Ally Condie
At Graves End by Jeanniene Frost
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeanniene Frost
Michael Vey: Prisoner of Cell 25 by Paul Evans
Not a bad 3 days of reading!
Heads Up for Awayness
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
I'm going to be out of the country for a couple of weeks, I've got some posts scheduled so you should still see some before I come back although I won't really be able to respond to messages and comments as much.
Hopefully you don't miss me too much, and I'll be back before you know it!
Hopefully you don't miss me too much, and I'll be back before you know it!
Books the Kitty Is Waiting For! (Sept 4)
Posted by
Sniffly Kitty
It is time to share a couple books that I'm looking forward to reading!
Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
Comes out March 6, 2012
While I do think the old cover style was prettier, I'm still looking forward to reading Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver. I really enjoyed Delirium when I read it last year, and I hope the sequel lives up to the emotional ending Oliver left us with.
Summary from Goodreads
Lauren Oliver captivated readers with Delirium, the first book in a thrilling dystopian trilogy in which Lena Haloway dared to fall in love with Alex and escape the cure, the government-mandated procedure that renders a person immune to the disease of love. Lena and Alex staked their lives on leaving their oppressive society, but only Lena broke free.
Pandemonium continues Lena’s gripping story. After escaping from Portland, Maine, Lena makes it to the Wilds and becomes part of an Invalid community, where she transforms herself into a warrior for the resistance. A future without Alex is unimaginable, but Lena pushes forward and fights, both for him and for a world in which love is no longer considered a disease. Swept up in a volatile mix of revolutionaries and counterinsurgents, Lena struggles to survive—and wonders if she may be falling in love again.
Full of danger, forbidden romance, and exquisite writing, Lauren Oliver’s sequel to Delirium races forward at a breathtaking pace and is sure to appeal to fans who crave the high-stakes action of The Hunger Games and the bittersweet love story of Romeo & Juliet.
Bridge of Dreams by Anne Bishop
Also comes out March 6, 2012
Anne Bishop wrote the delectable Black Jewels Trilogy; this though is another one of her series which is both sensual and capable of awakening your sense of wonder. I'm really looking forward to the latest installment. In case you want to get caught up with the series, the first is Sebastian and the second is Belladonna
No Summary Available Yet
Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
Comes out March 6, 2012
While I do think the old cover style was prettier, I'm still looking forward to reading Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver. I really enjoyed Delirium when I read it last year, and I hope the sequel lives up to the emotional ending Oliver left us with.
Summary from Goodreads
Lauren Oliver captivated readers with Delirium, the first book in a thrilling dystopian trilogy in which Lena Haloway dared to fall in love with Alex and escape the cure, the government-mandated procedure that renders a person immune to the disease of love. Lena and Alex staked their lives on leaving their oppressive society, but only Lena broke free.
Pandemonium continues Lena’s gripping story. After escaping from Portland, Maine, Lena makes it to the Wilds and becomes part of an Invalid community, where she transforms herself into a warrior for the resistance. A future without Alex is unimaginable, but Lena pushes forward and fights, both for him and for a world in which love is no longer considered a disease. Swept up in a volatile mix of revolutionaries and counterinsurgents, Lena struggles to survive—and wonders if she may be falling in love again.
Full of danger, forbidden romance, and exquisite writing, Lauren Oliver’s sequel to Delirium races forward at a breathtaking pace and is sure to appeal to fans who crave the high-stakes action of The Hunger Games and the bittersweet love story of Romeo & Juliet.
Bridge of Dreams by Anne Bishop
Also comes out March 6, 2012
Anne Bishop wrote the delectable Black Jewels Trilogy; this though is another one of her series which is both sensual and capable of awakening your sense of wonder. I'm really looking forward to the latest installment. In case you want to get caught up with the series, the first is Sebastian and the second is Belladonna
No Summary Available Yet
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
I am currently NOT open to review requests for books in print, audiobook, or e-book forms. Please check out my .png)
