Good afternoon friends, how about some more Fall 2019 reviews for your week? I enjoyed both of these titles very much, and am grateful to the publishers for sending them my way!
Bright Star by Erin Swan
RELEASES: August 13, 2019
RATING: 4.5 stars
REVIEW:
After an assassination at the manor where Andra is serves, she is thrust into a growing rebellion plot to overthrow the corrupt government who run the land of Paerolia. As she begins to find herself, and her voice, among these rebels, she also learns of a great power within her, that could be the key to a ensuring peace in Paerolia once again.
I absolutely loved this story - the bold fantasy realm, the brewing rebellion, and a girl with an unknown amount of power. Readers follow along as Andra learns to stand up for herself, and those she loves. It was enjoyable to see her character grow and mature throughout the novel. I liked the writing style - it was fast paced, and had a great mix of action, romance, and magic. The fantasy world had magic, expansive and lush lands, and dragons, and it was interesting to read about the bond between dragons and their Riders. The chemistry between Andra and Kael was also enjoyable, and I like that it was not rushed throughout the novel. Overall, I highly recommend this one to fantasy fans, cannot wait for its official release!
* Thank you to the publisher for sending an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *
Review on
Goodreads
Lifestyles of Gods & Monsters by Emily Roberson
RELEASES: October 20, 2019
RATING: 4.5 stars
REVIEW:
Lifestyles of Gods & Monsters is a mythological mix of the Kardishian's and Hunger Games (bold, right!?), but a lot of fun. It follows Ariadne, who is always in the spotlight because of her family's entertainment empire. They are most well known for their popular TV show
Labyrinth Contest, where Ariadne leads fourteen teens into a maze to slay a monster, but in its 10 seasons, no one has made it out alive. This season, when the Prince of Athens shows up, and asks for help to survive this wicked beast, Ariadne did not expect falling for him. But as he yearns to end this deadly contest, she has to decide who to save - Theseus, the monster, or herself.
This novel was unlike anything I have ever read before, and I really enjoyed it! I liked Ariadne's character development, and learning to stand up for what she wanted and taking control of her own life. Her budding romance with Theseus was engaging and added a softer side to the story. The mix of modern day society and the Greek mythology elements were unique and should appeal to a large reader audience. At times, it did feel a bit rushed, but the writing was easy to follow throughout. I liked the resolution of the story, but do wish we could have seen a bit more of Ariadne and Theseus's relationship after the events that occurred.
* Thank you to the publisher for sending an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *
Review on Goodreads
Described as Project Runaway meets Mulan, this magical retelling follows Maia, an aspiring tailor in a fantasy land. When an opportunity for her ill father to compete for the position of Imperial Tailor at the palace, Maia decides to take his place, dressed as a boy. As she delves deeper into the competition, she learns that her fellow competitors and court members are not above sabotage and betrayal. With the help of a secret keeping enchanter, she will have to have to work harder than ever to save her position, and her life.
