Review: Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Title: Grave Mercy

Series: His Fair Assassin #1

Author: Robin LaFevers

Publisher: Andersen

Publication Date: 7 June 2012

Source: NetGalley

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

Young, beautiful and deadly. Trained as an assassin by the god of Death, Ismae is sent to the court of Brittany, where she finds herself under prepared - not only for the games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death's vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

REVIEW

I love the premise of this one and its a deep case of cover love. Before I start I will tell you the one thing I really didn't like about the book - the use of the word MAYHAP, it may or may not fit with the historical setting I do not know but I hated its use with a vengeance, saying that it was the only thing I didn't like. 

Grave Mercy has a compelling story-line, well balanced characters, a fast, flowing plot with an interesting paranormal element alongside a fabulous romance.

Told in first person narrative from Ismae perspective. Ismae is a wonderfully complex character, suffering through a horrendous childhood at the hands of a physically abusive father and believing her mother never wanted her. Physically scarred from birth due to a herbal concoction her mother took during pregnancy, Ismae is rather timid with very little self confidence. Rescued by the local Herb Witch from an arranged marriage.

Ismae finds herself at the Convent of St Mortain, where she finds comfort and shelter for the first time in her life. The training as a Handmaiden gives Ismae confidence she hasn't possessed before. There are even lessons in the art of seduction, although Ismae avoids these like the plague which made me giggle out loud.

Initially Ismae serves the convent without question, although as a reader you question the ethics and credibility of what Ismae is told. The nature versus nurture debate can be seen in the way Ismae thrives in the convent. I really respected Ismae, her ability to be true to herself is an admirable quality and not always an easy choice to make. Her character development throughout the book provides a spectacular journey. The decision to be who you want to be rather than what others want you to be or expect you to be is not an easy one and can often be a painful process. 

The way in which taking orders from other people is scrutinized within the plot as part of Ismae's development showed that you can not always believe what you are told by others. People are fallible and often have ulterior motives for their actions.

I know absolutely nothing about french history so I cannot comment as to the accuracy of the historical events portrayed. The historical setting did add dramatic tension to the plot with the intrigue and suspense, betrayal and conspiracies. Cloak and dagger tension, divided loyalties, patriotism, treaties and arranged marriages all add to the setting and imagery. Secrets, personal agendas and conspiracy theories are all hinted at within the narrative providing a lot of scope for the series to continue.

The romantic element within the book is what really made it for me. The chemistry between Ismae and Duval was electrifying. Both have had to overcome prejudice in their lives. they really do bring out the best in each other, they were literally made for each other.

I am really looking forward to Book 2 in the series, although not a direct sequel as it is told from a differnt characters point of view, I am hoping Ismae and Duval make an appearance. As well as the required answers to the outstanding questions in this book.

Spotlight: Guest Post: Historical Book Recommendations by Barbara Mitchelhill

Title: Road to London

Author: Barbara Mitchelhill

Publisher: Andersen

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Thomas dreams of becoming an actor, and when Shakespeare comes home to Stratford, Thomas's life changes forever.

Thomas is desperate to join 'the players', he'll do anything to watch them perform, even skip school and risk a caning. But when Thomas's rule breaking gets him in trouble with more than just his school master, he has to flee his home and make his way to London. Here he meets his hero, Shakespeare, and his players. But behind the excitement of the theatres is a grimy world of deception, poison and treason. Will Thomas manage to uncover the plot in time? And will he manage to save Shakespeare from a fate worse than death?

Barbara has kindly put together a list of 5 historical novels that provide action and adventure as well as a great introduction to historical novels. Have you read any?

These are five historical fiction books for children published within the past five years.  I found all of them very exciting page-turners.

Fallen Grace by Mary Hooper

Set in London 1861 about young Grace whom we first meet carrying the body of her baby to Brookwood Cemetery. We watch her struggling to earn enough money to pay the rent and to avoid the unscrupulous family whose shady business deals with death and mourning. A wonderful story with lots of detail of Victorian London.

Powder Monkey by Paul Dowswell

Lots of action in this story of Sam Witchall working in difficult and dangerous conditions on board one of Nelson’s ships. Exciting and packed with action for those readers who can’t get enough of gory battles. Wonderful descriptions and historical details in the telling of the adventures of this young sailor.

Witch Child by Celia Rees

When Mary’s grandmother is hanged for being a witch, she is taken by a mysterious lady to begin a new life in New England where she lives in a strictly religious and isolated community. But Mary has a deep connection with the natural world and forms a secret friendship with Native Americans. With the arrival of the Witch Finder in the community, she must take care to avoid being branded as a witch. This exciting story gives the reader wonderful insight into the lives of the early settlers.

The Diamond of Drury Lane by Julia Golding

The best of the Cat Royal books. London 1790. Feisty Cat is an orphan living in the Drury Lane theatre where strange and amazing things happen in the theatrical world, including involvement with London’s underclasses. Exciting and funny. Full of historical detail of the theatre and 18th century London.

The Falconer’s Knot by Mary Hoffman

Italy, 1316. Silvano is accused unjustly of murder and runs away from home while Chiara is abandoned by her family and takes refuge in a neighbouring convent. When the two teenagers meet, they become friends but soon several murders strike fear into the close-knit community. In an attempt to avoid becomes victims, they try to solve the crimes themselves. This is a thrilling medieval murder mystery.

Are there any other historical novels you would recommend for my pupils as an introduction to this genre?

Guest Review: Road to London by Barbara Mitchelhill

Title: Road to London

Author: Barbara Mitchelhill

Publisher: Andersen

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Thomas dreams of becoming an actor, and when Shakespeare comes home to Stratford, Thomas's life changes forever.

Thomas is desperate to join 'the players', he'll do anything to watch them perform, even skip school and risk a caning. But when Thomas's rule breaking gets him in trouble with more than just his school master, he has to flee his home and make his way to London. Here he meets his hero, Shakespeare, and his players. But behind the excitement of the theatres is a grimy world of deception, poison and treason. Will Thomas manage to uncover the plot in time? And will he manage to save Shakespeare from a fate worse than death?

GUEST REVIEW BY SHELLY

“Plots, Treason and Drama! When Thomas flees to London in search of a life in the theatre, he meets his hero, William Shakespeare, and thinks his dream has come true.

But Elizabethan London is a grimy place; full of scoundrels, treachery and murder. Thomas and his friend, Alice, find themselves caught up in a treasonous plot to kill the Queen.”

I have to say that this kind of book is right up my street. I do love a good historical novel and this is an easy read. I know I am not the targeted audience for this book, I am after all no longer a teenager, but I have to say that I enjoyed travelling with Thomas into the grimy streets of Tudor London.

Thomas has always dreamed of being an actor and so when he meets his hero William Shakespeare in Stratford he feels that his dreams may come true. His Father though has different ideas and Thomas must attend school and become a lawyer. Circumstances change for Thomas and he must flee Stratford and there begins the tale of treason and murder. I feel that this is where the story really takes off and the way that the author has captured the dirty smelly streets of London is quite something. Although basic in language she manages to give you the sights and smells of that era.

Along the way Thomas meets Alice. She is a very feisty character and sometimes I did have to suspend belief in her as I did wonder if there were female characters like her at that time. But go with it as she becomes a truly likeable and enjoyable part of the book. She is the one who finds out about the plot to kill the Queen and with Thomas’ help, they manage to foil it.

There were some lovely references in the book to past historical events. Look out for the baker on Pudding Lane, a very witty nod to the Great Fire of London.

I enjoyed reading this and as I said at the start it is a very easy read with uncomplicated language but this does not detract from the great story that Barbara Mitchelhill weaves for her reader. I think this is a perfect book for those who want to delve into historical novels but don’t know where to start.

Guest Review: Merion of the Stones by Allan Frewin Jones

Title: Merion of the Stones

Series: Destiny's Path

Author: Allan Frewin Jones

Publisher: Hodder Children's Books

Publication Date: 5 Jan 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Branwen must bravely follow destiny’s path even when it leads her into the enemy’s stronghold …Branwen is set her next task by the Shining Ones: she must rescue an ancient god trapped in a Saxon prison. But the trail leads into the heart of Saxon territory, and she and her followers face their greatest challenge yet…until she learns that she is being hunted by the most feared warrior of all Scandinavia. Surrounded by danger, it is the worst time for her loyal band to splinter. But as Branwen seeks to outgrow her mentor, tensions within her band are growing. In her darkest hour, can Branwen remain on destiny’s path?

Branwen, is a really strong heroine in this story, faced with the difficult task set by Merion of the Stones, an ancient God, in order to free her homeland. The task she faces is very difficult, she must face and kill one of the most feared warriors in the country. With her team by her side, Branwen sets off on this impossible mission, facing many fierce warriors along the way.

Branwen is such a terrific character, brave and powerful, a great role model. She is kind and thoughtful to the people around her, as well as clever. The one thing I didn't like was that Branwen didn't listen to the good advice Gavan gave her, she was too ashamed to admit that he was right doing what she thought was best to the detriment of the others. My favorite part was when Branwen was fighting Sker, the action was fast paced, exciting and thrilling. I really hope that Branwen and Iwan's relationship is developed further.

 I can't wait to read the other books in the series. 

MG Monday: Guest Review: Black Arts by Prentice and Weil

Title: Black Arts

Series: Black Arts #1

Author: Andrew Prentice and Jonathan Weil

Publisher: David Fickling Books

Publication Date: 29 Mar 2012

Synopsis from Amazon

Elizabethan London: a teeming city of traders and thieves, courtiers and preachers, riff-raff and quality, cut-throats - and demons. When scrunty Jack the 'Judicious Nipper' picks the wrong pocket at the Globe Theatre, he finds himself mixed up in an altogether more dangerous London than he could have imagined - a city in which magic is real and deadly.

An outbreak of devil-worship has led to a wave of anti-witch fervor whipped up by the Elect, a mysterious group of Puritans recognizable from their red-stained right hands, led by the charismatic Nicholas Webb, a growing power at Court. Rumour has it that he wants to purge the city entirely and build a New Jerusalem. Jack has his own reason for hating him: he saw him kill his mother.

Helped by Beth Sharkwell the Thief Princess of Lambeth, Kit Morely the Intelligencer and Dr Dee the Queen's Wizard, Jack pits himself against Webb's Puritans. But this is no straightforward struggle. Things are not as they seem. In fact, ever since his encounter with Webb, there has been something wrong with Jack's vision. He keeps seeing things. Demons.

Black Arts is the first in a series of thrilling time-travel adventures, each bringing the past to glorious life, as Jack and his companions hurtle from one epic struggle to the next.

Jack (Nipper as he is known) is a thief, when he cuts the wrong purse he ends up in a completely different London to the one he is used to. As well as travelling through time he gains the ability to see demons/devils, this is where his search for Preacher Webb begins. Preacher Webb is also the man that killed Jack's mother. Jack is hindered in his search by his ties to his Master, Sharkwell, whose rules must be obeyed or else.

My favorite part of this book happens near the end, I'm not giving away any spoilers. I will say that it was thrilling and interesting in equal measure. I just couldn't put it down, absolutely thrilling. Jack is my favorite character, he is sneaky and sly but he needs to be in order to survive. His cleverness shines through the story.

I have to say that I didn't like how the Intelligencer and The Doctor kept Jack trapped as I think Jack would have been able to discover things necessary to help him in later situations if he hadn't been trapped. I would have really liked to have seen Beth and Jack's relationship develop further and to have seen exactly how Kit escaped captivity. 

I am really looking forward to more in this series and would highly recommend it.

MG Monday: Guest Review: The Adventures of The New Cut Gang by Philip Pullman

Title: The Adventures of the New Cut Gang

Author: Philip Pullman

Publisher: David Fickling Books

Publication Date: 1 Sep 2011

Synopsis from Amazon

Thunderbolt, Benny, Bridie and Sharky Bob are a mixed bunch of vagabonds and urchins who come together to form the New Cut Gang in two comic tales of stolen silver, skulduggery and desperadoes.

Fake coins are turning up all over Lambeth and the finger of suspicion is pointing at Thunderbolt's dad - could he really be the forger? The crime-busting New Cut Gang come to the rescue!

And when just two clues - a blob of wax and a Swedish match - are discovered at the scene of a break-in, the children find themselves on the trail of an extremely cunning criminal.

Set in late Victorian London, these two action-packed thrillers have now been put together in a single volume - with new illustrations throughout from Horrible Histories illustrator, Martin Brown.

This book combines 2 stories in one. The first being that of Thunderbolts Waxwork, the other The Gas Fitters Ball.

The main characters in both books are Sharky Bob, Bridie, Benny, Thunderbolt aka Sam alongside the twins, Angela and Zerlina. The book follows them through the 2 mysteries which they have to solve together as The New Cut Gang. In Thunderbolts Waxwork fake coins are being given out while in The Gas Fitters Ball £10,000 of silver is stolen. The New Cut Gang have to solve these mysteries to restore order to the town.

My favorite part was when the gang were trying to make a wax model because I thought it was a really sweet thing for them to try to do as well as it being funny how they went about trying to make it look real. Benny was my favorite out of all the characters because he was always coming up with crazy plans. He had a wonderful imagination and amazing crime solving skills when combined with the other members of the gang.

Unfortunately I did find some parts of the book a little predictable but I put this down to the age level it is geared for. I would have also changed some of the language used as I think old fashioned words may have been a bit difficult for younger children to understand.

Although I enjoyed this book I did find it on the young side; I would recommend it to younger readers who enjoy crime, mystery novels.

Guest Review: The Flappers: Vixen

Title: Vixen

Series: The Flappers #1 

Author: Jillian Larkin

Publisher: Corgi Childrens

Publication Date: 1 Mar 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Jazz . . . Booze . . . Boys . . . It’s a dangerous combination.

Every girl wants what she can’t have. Seventeen-year-old Gloria Carmody wants the flapper lifestyle—and the bobbed hair, cigarettes, and music-filled nights that go with it. Now that she’s engaged to Sebastian Grey, scion of one of Chicago’s most powerful families, Gloria’s party days are over before they’ve even begun . . . or are they?

Clara Knowles, Gloria’s goody-two-shoes cousin, has arrived to make sure the high-society wedding comes off without a hitch—but Clara isn’t as lily-white as she appears. Seems she has some dirty little secrets of her own that she’ll do anything to keep hidden. . . .

Lorraine Dyer, Gloria’s social-climbing best friend, is tired of living in Gloria’s shadow. When Lorraine’s envy spills over into desperate spite, no one is safe. And someone’s going to be very sorry. . . .

GUEST REVIEW BY BETH OF THE PIECES OF ME

This novel can only be described as fabulous and that’s not a word I’d usually use but it’s the only word which is in keeping with the mood and atmosphere created in this work. The 1920s Flapper girls have always intrigued me, as has the whole jazz music/prohibition ‘scene’ in the States but it’s not something I’ve ever known much about. After reading this novel I wouldn’t say I know a lot more about the period but I am spurred on to looking into it from a cultural/socio-historical perspective as the plot and characters in this work made it all seem so exciting and dangerous.

The three main characters in the novel are brilliant crafted. At first, I took an instant dislike to Gloria, despite her role as the ‘golden girl’ of the novel. This lessened towards the end but was never fully dealt with, she’s still not a particularly likeable character from my point of view. Her best friend, Lorraine is deeper and potentially more interesting but turns out to be even more despicable and goody-two-shoes Clara turned out to be my absolute favourite. Clara’s character is complex and interesting and there’s much more than meets the eye with her. The female characters are surrounded by a cast of males whose roles as the good guy and bad guy seem to interchange as much as the females. It’s really interesting that Larkin manages to keep the reader guessing throughout as to who the heroes and villains really are.

The plot itself quickens in pace as things become more complex and dangerous and some of the seemingly wholesome characters begin to show their true colours. The ending is absolutely brilliant and is a perfect beginning to what looks to be a really thrilling series. I don’t know how many novels out there cover this period but if this is anything to go by, more should.

Guest Review: Prisoner of The Inquisition by Theresa Breslin

Title: Prisoner of the Inquisition

Author: Theresa Breslin

Publisher:   Corgi Childrens 

Publication Date: 31 March 2011

Source: Review Copy

Synopsis from Goodreads

Zarita is used to basking in the pampered lifestyle being the only daughter of the town magistrate affords; she is free to roam the town as she likes, consort with the son of a nobleman and spend her days studying the arts. Saulo's family have fallen on hard times, and when his father is hanged for an assault on Zarita he did not commit and Saulo is hauled off to be a slave at sea, Saulo swears revenge. But when Zarita's mother dies in childbirth, and the formidable and frightening Inquisition arrives in the area, a curtain of suspicion and brutality comes down on her old life for good. Saulo may believe that Zarita is his sworn enemy, but in a time when the whole of Spain is in turmoil, are him and Zarita each other's only hope of survival?

GUEST REVIEW BY BETH OF THE PIECES OF ME

This novel took some time for me to get into but once I did, it was worth every minute. The characters felt real and believable. They were so beautifully written that even characters who initially seemed detestable (Zarita) turned out differently.

It’s not the kind of book or period I’d usually choose to read about so it was really interesting to be transported to a land and a time I knew nothing about. Its story switches between the narrative perspectives of Zarita and Saulo which I really enjoyed as it was possible to see how the one event in their past shapes all their actions in the future.

I much preferred Zarita’s side of the story to Saulo’s, mainly because I’m not really interested in swash-buckling sea-faring stuff whereas Zarita’s narrative was much more interesting, probably because it took more time for her character to bloom and develop. The characters were written really well and were easy to engage with, which made it even more enjoyable to read.

From a historical point of view some of the events covered are horrifying, with the burning of those convicted of heresy and the reliance on tittle-tattle and rumour to convict these people. The ending of the novel is extremely climactic and as the pace increases I didn’t even guess what was going to happen until it happened, which is clearly the mark of a good storyteller.

Having never read anything else from the period I found this novel really enlightening and enjoyable and I’d definitely give other works by this author a go, especially if they were similar in style.

MG Monday: Guest Mini Review: The Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M Auel

Title: The Clan of the Cave Bear
Series: Earths Children
Author: Jean M Auel
Publisher: Hodder Paperbacks
Publication Date: 23 Dec 2010

Source: Publisher - thank you




Synopsis: From Amazon
Leave 21st century London and go back to Ice Age Europe. Follow Ayla, a Cro-Magnon child who loses her parents in an earthquake and is adopted by a tribe of Neanderthal, the Clan. See how the Clan's wary suspicion is gradually transformed into acceptance of this girl, so different from them, under the guidance of its medicine woman Iza and its wise holy man Creb. Immerse yourself in a world dictated by the demands of survival in a hostile environment, and be swept away in an epic tale of love, identity and struggle.

Review:
The premise of this story is very interesting, showing that where you live in the world affects your development. Applicable to today's society by the parallels with '3rd World countries' as opposed to 'Developed Countries'.

The research that went into this book really shines through the narrative. Giving depth to the story. Not only from a historical point of view but the way in which aromatherapy/herbalism/homeopathy was included. Natural remedies that should be utilised more often in today's society.

I will state truthfully that I did not finish this book, although I do intend to, as it is quite heavy going. Lots of characters to remember and how they fit into the story. With regard to it slotting in to the current teen market, again I am undecided on this one. I feel that the avid historical/fantasy reader will lap this up but as it is on the weighty side it may put off the 'average' teen. 

Many thanks to J for reading this book and dictating his review to me [ : D ]

MG Monday: Review: Prophecy of Days by Christy Raedeke

Title: Prophecy of Days
Series: The Daykeepers Grimoire
Author: Christy Raedeke
Publisher: Flux
Publication Date: 1 May 2010

Source: Library




Synopsis: Fom GoodReads
Is the story of Caity Mac Fireland, a girl from San Francisco whose parents drag her to an isle off the coast of Scotland to manage some family property. Caity finds that a Mayan relic is concealed there, intentionally left centuries ago by Mayan Daykeepers in an attempt to keep their profound knowledge about the year 2012 alive into the current era.
As she delves into this world of secret knowledge, Caity is helped along by a visiting family friend and Feng Shui master, Uncle Li; a Mayan elder named Bolon; and Mr. Papers, her pet monkey that communicates through origami. A handsome Scottish lad gets pulled into the intrigue, as do several other people with questionable motives and loyalties. Caity must weave together a tapestry of information in order to make her radical discovery, a mystery protected by an elite coterie of power-brokers who influence world events. Caity’s twenty-first century mind is put to the test as she tries to uncover the answer to an ancient riddle while trying to outwit this powerful group that will stop at nothing to control the secret, and her.

Review:
OMG this book was phenomenal prepare for gushing [ ; ) ] What could be more totally awesome than a monkey that does origami. I want one [ : D ]

Written in first person narrative from Caity's perspective. Your typical teenager with wonderful snarkiness. Directly addressing the reader giving it an air of confiding her secrets in you. Her parents are both genius's in their respective fields, being somewhat unconventional: her Mum is a safe-cracker, while her Dad is a computer whizz but full of conspiracy theories (YAY). Caity underestimates herself when comparing her intelligence to her parents. In that respect you can understand why she would want to keep the unravelling of the mystery to herself rather than directly asking for their help, fearing they would take over like previous school projects.

Wonderfully descriptive writing with captivating imagery. Visually dynamic with the use of prose, email and text formats, giving a totally rounded depiction of both modern technology alongside ancient beliefs. Caity's narrative tends to jump about a bit but is totally relatable and keeping in character with a 16 year old girl.

A terrific clue trail is scattered throughout the narrative, I found my mind jumping to conclusions and then assumptions all the way through. Nothing should be taken at face value. Mystery after mystery is piled together, seemingly unrelated until the pieces are fitted together.

All the characters were interesting and colourful, I couldn't say there was anything normal about any of them.

The weaving of myths and legends into the narrative was astounding. It was amazing to see how many different cultures have very similar myths and legends. Provoking the mind to gather the common thread and search for the truth behind them.

Not only does Christy Raedeke weave the ancient history into the plot but sprinkles in a good bit of spirituality. She takes it to another level by adding in quantum physics and conspiracy theories. Be still by beating heart; all the things I totally love because that is what goes on in my head. Meshing it all together, finding the common threads and examining the principles behind it. Totally amazing how science/spirituality and mythology all came together to create such an amazing plot.

*faints* I have raved so much about this book at home that J (who does not read) went back to the library and borrowed it for himself *falls over* *thud* and yes he is actually reading it.

Review: Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink

Title: Guardian of the Gate
Series: Prophecy of the Sisters
Author: Michelle Zink
Publisher: Atom (UK) Thank you for the review copy
Published: 5 Aug 2010

Synopsis: From Amazon
Sixteen-year-old Lia Milthorpe must journey to the uncharted isle of Altus to continue her search for the missing pages of the Book of Chaos - the pages that could tell her how to end the prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other. But the journey will test more than just her courage, it will also test her loyalty to her beloved boyfriend, James. Meanwhile, twin sister Alice will stop at nothing to reclaim Lia's role as the Gate. And that's not the only thing she wants from her sister: there's also Lia's true love. The outcome of their battle could have consequences of Biblical proportions and, in the end, only one sister will be left standing.

Review:
I cant tell you how much I looked forward to this sequel to Prophecy of the Sisters, the mix of realism, Gothic convention and historical setting, so richly depicted in Michelle Zink's writing provided an imaginary world in which I could totally immerse my imagination. The descriptions so sensory I could almost feel as if I was right there in the story with them.

Let me start by saying that I love how the title is a play on words of the plot, completely ingenious. I can only describe this book in terms of a roller-coaster ride; the start builds slowly as you are chugging along to the top of the ride, but as soon as you hit that peak you are sent flying along with fast paced action and drama. The gentle start lulls you into a false sense of security, before the plot takes off with adrenaline fuelled action. Dramatic and intense Gothic imagery combined with fast paced action create a compelling storyline. The gathering forces of darkness held at bay by a small band of light/hope.

The history of the prophecy and the genealogy revealed expand the plot drawing the reader further into the plot.

Lia is a wonderful protagonist; fiercely loyal, insecure in her power to begin with but as time passes her belief in herself grows. Her sense of duty over-shadows her own desire for peace and security. She gradually gains both power and inner strength as the plot progresses.

The introduction of a new love interest for Lia gives an extra dimension to the plot with the parallels to Lia's parent's relationship. Dimitiri has a high sizzle factor mixed with a truly lovable nature. You have a sense that Lia and Dimitiri are connected on a profound level. I am adding them to my favourite literary couples along with Bella and Edward plus Vance and Portia.

Alice continues to be absolutely terrifying in her calm assurance that she should rule with Samael (the devil). Her power and lack of respect for the rules instills a shudder of terror whenever she is mentioned in the narrative. Her manipulation of people and events is chilling in its premeditation and complete callousness.

Altus would be my kind of utopia; mix in a few supernatural powers and I would move there in a heartbeat. However, the treatment Lia receives on Altus show how people base their judgements on preconceived notions rather than letting peoples actions speak for themselves. Most people don't bother to get to know people for themselves, instead they trust in rumours and gossip like it is the right thing to do. This makes me both angry and sad. It was lovely to see how Lia was able to alter peoples preconceived ideas about her.

Back to the roller-coaster analogue: there are some amazing twists and turns that take the reader by surprise.

I cant wait to see where this story goes from here.