2010 Debut Author Challenge: The Iron King

Loved. This. Book.

The fairies in The Iron King are definitely not the “innocence and pixie dust” kind. Not even close. The Fey in this book are definitely darker and much more menacing. The Fey of mythology–the kind that people back in the old days would make charms for to prevent irking them or being a target.

In all the mythology I’ve read surrounding the Fey, the Summer and Winter courts and the sidhe in general, this is exactly the type of world that I would really be inclined to believe existed–a world of dark and terrifying creatures, ancient power and fey that thrive on making binding promises (like the kind for your first born or a memory or something equally as precious).

I could definitely relate to Meghan’s journey in this book. She was a perfect balance of strong and “hesitant” heroine–not too feisty but not a damsel in distress either. True she did rely on Puck and Ash and Grimalkin to get her out of many a scrape, but I’d suspect if most of us were plopped into a situation like hers at sixteen–or at any age–we’d probably react the same, if not more hesitant. There were plenty of instances that Meghan had to face where I probably would’ve wet myself, yet she kept her fear hidden well enough. But it was also nice to see her grow gradually as the book progressed and face each challenge with increasing confidence and bravery.

Loved the characters too. Puck had to be my absolute favorite. I think I’d choose him over Ash any day 🙂 The cat Grimalkin is a close second. If cats could speak, I’m certain Grimalkin echoes many a cat’s true thoughts, especially with their wily nature and unpredictability.

Definitely a highly recommended book, especially if you’re looking for the world of fey that’s not all magic and golden pixie dust.

2010 Debut Author Challenge: Magic Under Glass

So let me say that it’s been awhile since I’ve had a hard time putting a book down. Magic Under Glass was certainly one of those books; I stayed up until 1 AM last night finishing it.

Anyway, the book was as amazing as I’d hoped it’d be. Dolamore creates such a vibrant world and her descriptions paint such a picture that it seems like Lorinar was as real to me as any place on earth. The story hardly had a slow moment; each chapter ended at such a point that I couldn’t wait to read the next one…and the next and the next and so forth.

The main character, Nimira, has to be one of my favorite female heroines that I’ve read in awhile. She’s strong and brave, yet graceful and determined. I love how she’s not the standard “spitfire” heroine; her strength comes from within and she’s not the type to quickly speak whatever comes to mind; she carefully considers what to say–and who to say it to–instead of making the same mistakes as so many heroines her age by letting her emotions get out of control. I have to say I’m not sure I’d have been able to act as she did, with such bravery and calmness–especially when people would make less than kind comments about her ethnicity. Yet she wisely kept quiet, even if her emotions were raging within.

I loved how Dolamore portrayed all the characters in this book–from the mysterious and conflicted Hollin Parry, to the automaton Erris (whom I love almost as strongly as Nim), to the quiet and meek Linza and the dark and sinister Smollings. Each character was so three dimensional, it was like reading about events and people that actually existed.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy and romance. It’s a quick read once you get started, trust me 🙂 And I’m really hoping that there will be a sequal to this fantastic world.

Definitely 5/5 stars.

2010 Debut Author Challenge

 

I am going to participate in a reading challenge this year. This challenge is being hosted by The Story Siren, and goes throughout the course of 2010. The goal is to read at least 12 YA debut novels of 2010. The complete rule list is here, in case you wish to participate.

To sign up to take part in this fun challenge, head on over to The Story Siren’s sign up list (which is also in my sidebar). Be sure to read ALL the rules before participating!

To see my list of books I plan on reading over the course of the year, as well as updated links to my reviews of them on Goodreads, check out my new page at the top, titled “2010 Challenge.”