King of Mist by Jordan Rivet

King of Mist by Jordan Rivet
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This second installment of the series did not disappoint. We know Dara is strong from reading the first story, but in this novel, her character is developed thoroughly. She has found a purpose apart from dueling, and we see her struggle with duty and matters of the heart.

Siv also has growth in this book, and we see him mature from an impulsive, somewhat obnoxious character, into a young man who is doing his best to be kingly. I believe I liked his portrayal more in this story than the first, mainly because there is some angst when Siv realizes his heart and head do not agree on the right course of action.

I enjoyed the first novel, however, there is a more definite sense of urgency and danger in this book that sets it apart from its predecessor. The villains have a name, face, and motive in "King of Mist," making it highly addictive. I recommend this series to fans of GoT, Eragon, and Percy Jackson.



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Duel of Fire by Jordan Rivet

Duel of Fire by Jordan Rivet
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 STARS
I want to do this novel justice in my review, because I think it is a wonderful story. It's unique not only in its setting, but in the character development as well.

Dara Ruminor has no magic. She is a trained female duelist, which we come to understand isn't exactly rare; however, Dara is better than the women and some men in this sport. She has honed her skills because of dedication to her passion, against the wishes of her parents. Dara has an iffy relationship with her mom and dad, and even though she wishes to please them, she can't imagine a life where she isn't doing what she loves.

The perimeter characters are also fairly well-developed. Prince Siv is quite likable in that he has more than just good looks. He is witty, caring, and a little sneaky, and the big brother to two of the most diverse princesses I have read about lately. Sola has a head for politics, and Selivia is your typical young teen: giddy, boy-crazy, and lots of fun.

The plot is also well-developed. Fire magic isn't new to the fantasy world, but Rivet deviates from the norm, and if I told you how, it would RUIN the story. So, you're just going to have to read the book! Best part is that this novel and its sequel are FREE on Kindle Unlimited!!! If you aren't a subscriber to Kindle Unlimited, they are only $3.99. It's well worth that, trust me! :)

The only reason I dropped my review from 5 stars to 4.5 is that I didn't quite understand some of the figurative language. There were similes I had difficulty with, only because I didn't have enough of a backstory to base them on. This in no way affected my reading the book, it just is something the author may need to consider in her next novels.



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The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a four-star book for me for only one reason: it took me a while to become invested. I have a bad habit of reading multiple reviews prior to the book, and several "so-so" reviews often hinder me from fully appreciating a entire body of work.

I read where others said this was a religious book, and that they weren't comfortable recommending it because of the God factor. I think it definitely is religious, relative to the book itself. The characters are deeply spiritual, but I never once felt "preached at" or encouraged to pick up my Bible. The God I serve doesn't put stones in people's navels, so I was certainly able to distinguish the line between fantasy and reality.

The book itself was an enjoyable read, and the characters were likable. I loved Alina, and how Carson develops and matures her character. She struggles with weight, trust, naivete, and general teenage girl issues. The writing never felt contrived or shallow.

Other reviews I read complained because Alina loses weight before the end of the story, and that others don't see her beauty until she is skinny. I disagree wholeheartedly. I am the reader, the most important person to the story, correct? I adored Alina from the get-go, even if I didn't understand the premise. Also, Hector and Humberto see Alina's worth well before she experiences her weight loss, and also, I'd like to point out, that Alina is never truly thin! She talks many times about extra skin and how she will never be dainty or delicate. What I gathered from my reading was that Alina became healthy. Her muscles grew strong, her appetite changed, and she also developed a firmer inner resolve.

I highly recommend this book.

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Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton

Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a slow start, and despite the pretty cover, I was hesitant to continue reading it after scanning through some reviews. I decided to push through, and I am so glad I did!

As I said before...SLOW beginning. The setting was different than your normal YA novel, and other than a magic horse, I didn't really see any hint of the fantasy genre. I could see the romantic setup coming from a mile away, but I didn't mind it. The characters were likeable, and the world-building is strong.

If you like a character that toes the line of being a villain, this book is definitely for you. Hamilton does a great job depicting her protagonists, but an even better job making one of her "bad" guys relatable.

Overall, I thought this was an enjoyable read. Just be prepared to sift through a few chapters before being hooked.

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The Bird and The Sword by Amy Harmon

The Bird and the Sword by Amy Harmon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am not sure I can adequately describe this book. It was magical, everything a YA fantasy novel should be. No wimpy heroines, actual relationships, and no cliche characters. EVERY person in this book mattered. Any more of a review might do this novel a disservice, and it will take away from whatever your thoughts are going into this. The Kindle version is well worth the $3.99, and I promise you will be like me, ordering the hardcover within minutes of finishing.

GO READ THIS BOOK!

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