Book Review: "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" by Laini Taylor: A Mesmerizing Tale of Love, Myth, and Destiny

"Daughter of Smoke and Bone" is a captivating and enchanting novel by Laini Taylor that weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and mythology. In this review, we will explore the intricate world-building, compelling characters, and the poetic prose that make this book a standout in the realm of young adult fantasy.

Review: "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" transports readers into a richly imagined world where the line between fantasy and reality blurs. The story revolves around Karou, a young art student in Prague who finds herself caught between two worlds: the human world she knows and the mysterious world of chimaera, creatures with both human and animal characteristics. As Karou embarks on a journey to discover her true identity, she becomes entangled in a centuries-old war between chimaera and seraphim.

Laini Taylor's world-building in "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" is nothing short of remarkable. From the streets of Prague to the hidden doors that lead to the otherworldly realms, every detail is intricately crafted. The author seamlessly blends real-world locations with fantastical elements, immersing readers in a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The rich tapestry of myth, magic, and history adds depth and layers to the narrative, creating a sense of wonder and awe.

Karou is a complex and relatable protagonist. Taylor's portrayal of her strengths, vulnerabilities, and inner conflicts makes her a compelling and multidimensional character. The supporting cast, including the enigmatic Akiva and the vividly drawn chimaera characters, further adds to the depth of the story. Their relationships and dynamics are fraught with tension, secrets, and unexpected connections, keeping readers invested in their journeys.

At the heart of "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" is a captivating romance that unfolds against a backdrop of war and ancient grudges. The love between Karou and Akiva is both passionate and tragic, transcending boundaries and challenging the forces that seek to keep them apart. Taylor's exploration of love, sacrifice, and destiny is both heart-wrenching and beautifully rendered, evoking a range of emotions within the reader.

One of the notable strengths of Taylor's writing is her poetic prose. Her lyrical and evocative language brings the story to life, painting vivid imagery and creating a sense of magic and wonder. The narrative flows seamlessly, capturing the reader's imagination and immersing them in the enchanting world she has created.

However, some readers may find that the pacing of the story slows down at certain points, as Taylor takes time to delve into the histories and intricacies of the world. While this provides depth to the narrative, it may slightly slow the momentum of the plot for those seeking a faster pace.

In conclusion, "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" is a mesmerizing and enchanting novel that combines elements of fantasy, romance, and mythology. With its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and poetic prose, Laini Taylor invites readers on a magical journey filled with love, secrets, and the complexities of fate. If you are looking for a beautifully crafted young adult fantasy that captures the imagination and tugs at the heartstrings, "Daughter of Smoke and Bone" is a must-read.

Sparrow Man Book 4 - RAVEN KING - available for preorder

A fast-paced paranormal fantasy.

Supernatural meets The Walking Dead in an action-packed, dark fantasy you can’t put down.

Blurb:

There’s no stopping these monsters.

There’s nothing worse than the ruler of Hell without wings. Unless it’s the ruler of Hell without Sparrow. Meg’s trying to get her footing in her own realm, while planning an escape to locate Sparrow. What starts as a simple rescue mission turns into disaster.

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10 Fantasy books that will change how you think

 

Fantasy literature is often dismissed as mere escapism, but the truth is that the genre has the power to challenge our assumptions, expand our imaginations, and change the way we think about the world. Here are ten fantasy books that have the potential to do just that:

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien: This classic epic fantasy is more than just a thrilling adventure story. Its themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil can inspire readers to think deeply about what it means to live a meaningful life.


A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin: This coming-of-age story follows the journey of a young wizard as he grapples with power, responsibility, and the consequences of his actions. Its exploration of the nature of magic and the human psyche is thought-provoking and profound.


The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood: This dystopian novel may not seem like a typical fantasy book, but its themes of gender, power, and oppression are just as relevant to the genre. Atwood's powerful prose and incisive social commentary make this a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of fantasy and politics.


The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss: This lyrical, beautifully crafted novel is a masterclass in world-building and character development. Its protagonist, the enigmatic Kvothe, is a flawed and complex hero whose journey will resonate with readers long after the last page.


The Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin: This series of novels and short stories set in the same universe as A Wizard of Earthsea explore themes of power, identity, and morality through the eyes of a diverse cast of characters. Le Guin's writing is rich, nuanced, and thought-provoking.


The Broken Earth Trilogy by N.K. Jemisin: This groundbreaking series reimagines the conventions of epic fantasy through the lens of race, gender, and social justice. Its world-building is both intricate and immersive, and its exploration of power and oppression is both timely and timeless.


The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis: This beloved children's series is often dismissed as simplistic or didactic, but its themes of faith, courage, and sacrifice are just as relevant to adults as they are to children. Its exploration of the nature of evil and the power of redemption is both moving and inspiring.


The Kingkiller Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss: This sprawling, multi-layered series follows the life of Kvothe, a legendary wizard and musician, as he recounts his adventures to a chronicler. Its intricate plot, vivid characters, and lyrical prose make it a standout in the fantasy genre.


The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: This dystopian series explores themes of power, inequality, and resistance through the eyes of a young heroine fighting for survival in a brutal, totalitarian society. Its vivid depiction of a world gone wrong is both gripping and disturbing.


The Gormenghast Trilogy by Mervyn Peake: This surreal, Gothic series is a tour de force of imagination and language. Its vivid descriptions of a decaying castle and its bizarre inhabitants are both unsettling and mesmerizing, and its exploration of power and identity is both haunting and thought-provoking.

These ten fantasy books are just a small sampling of the many works in the genre that have the power to change a person's thinking. Whether you're looking for escapism or enlightenment, fantasy literature is a rich and rewarding source of both.

Review: All the Birds in the Sky by Charlie Jane Anders

It's been a while since I've done a book review, that doesn't mean I haven't been reading I've just been reading a multitude of books and finding in hard to finish one.

All The Birds in the Sky by Charlie Jane Anders was a really interesting read. A combination of sci-fi and fantasy that takes the reader through the scenic route of intertwining moments of Patricia and Laurence's lives as they are children, then young adults, and then adults. The dialogue is quippy and smart and the world was a bit like ours but more dire.

It was a good read. 4/5 Stars.





Blurb:

A novel about the end of the world--and the beginning of our future

Childhood friends Patricia Delfine and Laurence Armstead didn't expect to see each other again, after parting ways under mysterious circumstances during high school. After all, the development of magical powers and the invention of a two-second time machine could hardly fail to alarm one's peers and families.

But now they're both adults, living in the hipster mecca of San Francisco, and the planet is falling apart around them. Laurence is an engineering genius who's working with a group that aims to avert catastrophic breakdown through technological intervention into the changing global climate. Patricia is a graduate of Eltisley Maze, the hidden academy for the world's magically gifted, and works with a small band of other magicians to secretly repair the world's ever-growing ailments. Little do they realize that something bigger than either of them, something begun years ago in their youth, is determined to bring them together--to either save the world, or plunge it into a new dark ages.

A deeply magical, darkly funny examination of life, love, and the apocalypse.

Live Interview by Stacey Cochran with R. E. Carr and M. R. Pritchard

Nominate Nightingale Girl on KindleScout

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If you've been anxiously awaiting the sequel to 'Sparrow Man' the wait is over!
'Nightingale Girl' is up for nomination on KindleScout. Read the preview, nominate the book, share the links. If the book wins a publishing contract you get a free copy!!

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Editorial Reviews for SPARROW MAN:



"Tantalizingly suspenseful, sending delicious shivers down the readers' spine! Not only are you engrossed in the story, but you really love both Meg and Sparrow Man. Meg isn't simply an empty vehicle of a main character, a host for the reader's experiences and reactions to everything going on in the book. She is her own person, clearly defined, and we respect her strong will and her grit." -Jessica Crawford, The Sentient

A 2014 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Contestant
"I was hooked from the get-go..." -ABNA Expert Reviewer

"It's unfortunate that one can't predict or be a part of aiding which books go viral, as Sparrow Man by M.R. Pritchard is certainly worthy of such reward ... this novel took me by complete surprise. What I thought was a simple zombie story morphed into something wild and completely unforeseen. Yet it fit perfectly within the world Pritchard has created, mysteries unfolding into fantastical developments. The eclectic characters were a joy to follow and the romance unfolded without being forced."-TheBehrg, KindleScout winning author of Housebroken

Seeker by Arwen Elys Dayton

According to Publishers Weekly, “In this powerful beginning to a complex family saga...Dayton excels at creating memorable characters.”

SEEKER is billed as a Young Adult fantasy novel. And while the characters are memorable and the family saga complex, there is something off.

What I loved: 
The relationship between Quin, John and Shinobu. This book reminded me nothing of the Hunger Games or Divergent, but at times I did find myself thinking it reminded me a bit of Clockwork Princess with the love triangle.

The little physics class about traveling between dimensions was fun.

The deceptions and family secrets intriguing, but not as intriguing as Maud’s character.

What I didn’t like: 
Wait, what’s a Seeker and what are they seeking? And why did Quin suddenly become this magnificent healer for 18 months and then we never revisit that power and it was never hinted at in the first place?

Parts of this book are great, but there’s something missing and the 18 month span in Hong Kong seems out of place in a book like this. It’s a good fantasy read, but lacking in the world building. Maybe book 2 will bring it all together, but the story didn’t draw me in enough to feel like I have to read the next one.

3/5 Stars

**I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review**

Reluctant Prince by Dani-Lyn Alexander

ARC received from the publisher.







Let's start with the cover. I Like it. I feel like the cover is a little dark for this book, and something seems a bit off. But I do like it, it's just not my favorite.

The Book:
This was a great read. I was hooked from the start with the action and intrigue. Reluctant Prince reminded me of a very toned down version of Elizabeth Norton's Eternal Guardian's series (which I loved). The romance was sweet but not overbearing.There was plenty of action so boredom was not an issue at all. And, there were dragons! Loved that tidbit in the book.

4/5 stars