artemishi
The Seattle Public Library
artemishi's Completed Shelf
Filter your results by...
Format
The GiverThe Giver, Downloadable Audiobook
by Lowry, LoisDownloadable Audiobook - 2006Downloadable Audiobook, 2006
artemishi's rating:
Added Jun 14, 2015
The Girl With All the GiftsThe Girl With All the Gifts, Downloadable Audiobook
by Carey, M. R.Downloadable Audiobook - 2014Downloadable Audiobook, 2014
All copies in use
Holds: 0 on 3 copies
Holds: 0 on 3 copies
artemishi's rating:
Added Jun 12, 2015
Comment:
The Girl with All the Gifts is one of those books that I couldn't put down, and then didn't want to move on from when it was over. It combines real science with psychology and development to create a believable future world with well-developed characters. The tension is constant, gripping and served the plot well. And the pacing was perfect.
I could easily go on and on about how I loved this book, so I'll try to be succinct here:
The characters were universally three-dimensional, well-developed, and morally grey. There was one I loved, and one I hated, but even in those instances I understood the sticky and shining parts of their character that drove their decisions.
The world is our own, in a plausible future. The buildup for the first reveal is delicious, even though it's not a surprise, so I won't go too much into it. Suffice to say, the author did her homework, and that makes this concept all the more terrifying. I suggest, after reading, you Google the term and then let that possible evolutionary reality sink in.
The narrative voice shifts between the primary five characters, and each voice is unique, driven, and not at all superfluous. In fact, there wasn't a superfluous scene or line in this book- everything drove the plot.
The pacing was like watching a really good movie. The stakes and tension increased continuously, without ever feeling like the action scenes dominated the narrative. And it was such that, in between listening to chapters, I would get twitchy and startle at noises.
I listened to this on audiobook, and the narrator (Finty Williams) did a fantastic job. There was no annoying background music thrown in (have I mentioned how much I despise when audiobook publishers put music in a book? DESPISE IT). It only took about three chapters for me to visualize each character easily with Finty's change in tone, so I had zero issues understanding who was narrating at any given time.
It didn't make me cry, but it did make me yell at the iPod (a few times), as you do when a character makes a bad decision in a movie, or when you think the best character is in mortal jeopardy. And after it ended, I didn't want to leave it and listen to the next book. Even after I started the next audiobook, my mind kept returning to this book, and wondering the 'what if' after the end of the plot, and analyzing the characters, and projecting what that world would be like in twenty years.
So, yes, I recommend it for everyone. If you like a good book, you should read this. Even more so if you like ensemble casts, well-developed characters, great pacing, apocalyptic scenarios, true emotional impact, psychology, science, speculative fiction, creepy things, and descriptive writing.The Girl with All the Gifts is one of those books that I couldn't put down, and then didn't want to move on from when it was over. It combines real science with psychology and development to create a believable future world with well-developed…
artemishi's rating:
Added Jun 10, 2015
Comment:
The Canterbury Papers brought to life an historical figure I'd never encountered before- Alaïs Capet, stepdaughter of Eleanor of Aquitane. This book did an excellent job of bringing a little-known figure into life, especially as an older (for the day) woman caught in the typical Plantagenet drama of the day.
There's a fair amount of actual history in here, and the author is good at calling out the fictitious bits from it. It's got a lot going on- mainly intrigue and mystery, but also adventure, a strong female protagonist, and romance. It's a pretty well-paced novel, although I wanted to see more about William Marshall and a few of the other side characters (who are actual historical figures).
Overall, I recommend it for fans of historical fiction, especially 1200s England/France/Aquitane, the Plantagenets, and the Knights Templar. Even if you are only mildly interested in historical fiction, the narrative voice of a 40s-sh woman being given the breath and space to become her own person (at a time where she was, by status and birth, always meant to be a political pawn) was refreshing and sweet.The Canterbury Papers brought to life an historical figure I'd never encountered before- Alaïs Capet, stepdaughter of Eleanor of Aquitane. This book did an excellent job of bringing a little-known figure into life, especially as an older (for the…
The Ghost BrideThe Ghost Bride, Downloadable Audiobook
by Choo, YangszeDownloadable Audiobook - 2013Downloadable Audiobook, 2013
artemishi's rating:
Added Jun 02, 2015
Comment:
I listened to The Ghost Bride as an audiobook (narrated by the author), which was a wonderful way to experience this story. Set in Victorian Malaysia (controlled by the British, but a veritable melting pot of cultures), this is part folklore, part mythology and part magical realism.
There's a lot of Chinese culture undertones here, from belief in spirits and what happens in the afterlife, to food, dress, customs, filial duties, etc. For someone who knows very little about Chinese culture, it was a beautifully poetic backdrop to the story.
The story itself, while deftly interwoven with the folklore, is a young woman's adventure through death itself. I'd call it fiction, not YA, even though the protagonist is 18 years old. The themes are adult, and the projected path of the heroine is a bit more fraught than I expected.
Overall, listening to this story was like being read a beautiful take by my mother, and also like hearing a poetry reading by David Keplinger. It was just straight-up beautiful, with a healthy dose of mysticism thrown in for intrigue.
I highly recommend it to fans of Chinese folklore, mythology, and cultural beliefs in the afterlife, as well as fans of strong heroines, complicated romance, mystical journeys, historical fiction, and beautifully-developed environments.I listened to The Ghost Bride as an audiobook (narrated by the author), which was a wonderful way to experience this story. Set in Victorian Malaysia (controlled by the British, but a veritable melting pot of cultures), this is part folklore, part…
artemishi's rating:
Added May 29, 2015
Comment:
Between the Lines is a sweet middle-grade contemporary romance with inklings of magical realism. It pays homage to fairytales, with some clever interpretations of how stories live within out hearts and minds. It was a quick read, lacking much in the way of depth or character development.
The things I liked: The concept is clever, and finding the resolution was cleverly done (and not rushed).
The things I didn't like: instalove, inconsistencies with details (like, she's wearing a wool shirt but then three paragraphs later it's a t-shirt and shorts, etc), it's labeled YA but reads in depth like a middle grade novel (i.e. conflicts outside of the romance are resolved quickly and easily, by the protagonist suddenly realizing the answer), the characters are pretty one dimensional.
Overall, I found it to be 'meh'. It was more like reading a novella writing exercise on conflict development, than reading a fully developed novel.
I recommend it for fans of Jodi Picoult (I guess? I've never read her books, but look how much bigger her name is than the title!), and anyone looking for a quick contemporary romance read that focuses on a younger audience.Between the Lines is a sweet middle-grade contemporary romance with inklings of magical realism. It pays homage to fairytales, with some clever interpretations of how stories live within out hearts and minds. It was a quick read, lacking much in the…
Lola and the Boy Next DoorLola and the Boy Next Door, Downloadable Audiobook
by Perkins, StephanieDownloadable Audiobook - 2011Downloadable Audiobook, 2011
artemishi's rating:
Added May 24, 2015
Comment:
Lola and the Boy Next Door is kind of a sequel to Anna and the French Kiss. Kind of, because while Anna plays a small part in it and it's written by the same author, it has no true continuation of the initial story. It's adorable, and very typically contemporary YA romance. But I didn't care for it.
I loved, and related to, Anna. A lot.
Lola, though....I love the costuming, and I totally understand her teen pettiness. I just don't feel connected to her at all.
I'm also starting to get weary of the 'special names' thing that contemporary YA is so enamored of. Cricket? Calliope? Lola? What happened to the Bobs, Matts, Megans and Jennys of the world?
But mostly, it annoyed me because it revolves entirely around a love triangle. And I HATE triangles. Especially when the author clearly makes one of the love interests into a villain, and the other one isn't flawed at all.
A) people, and life, don't work like that
B) it's boring
C) the main character looks even more idiotic because she can't choose which one, given this easy-choice setup
Anna and the French Kiss has a love triangle, but it was muted, and more realistic (and everyone was flawed, and there was no clear good-choice/bad-choice, just Protagonist and Other.)
So I know Perkins can write this better. And if she phoned it in with this novel, which should I read her third (Isla and the Happily Ever After)? Just to see more quirky characters?
I dunno, if you've read Isla, please tell me if it's worth my time. I was so let down by Lola, given my expectations after Anna, and I don't want to go through that frustration again.
If, unlike me, you like a contemporary YA romance love triangle that is fairly shallow and has quirky/cute characters, you might enjoy it. But read Anna and the French Kiss, which is (in my opinion) better. If you read Anna, you do not need to read this one. Move along, folks, nothing to see here.Lola and the Boy Next Door is kind of a sequel to Anna and the French Kiss. Kind of, because while Anna plays a small part in it and it's written by the same author, it has no true continuation of the initial story. It's adorable, and very typically…
artemishi's rating:
Added May 20, 2015
Comment:
Scarlet is the sequel to Hood, which I reviewed last week. I'm sad to say, while Hood captured my interest and engaged me, Scarlet left me feeling 'meh'.
I'm not exactly sure why this is. It isn't poorly written, although both the narrator and the narration style differ from book 1 in the trilogy. Will Scarlet is a likable character, and the machinations from the first book continue to grind away in the plot. It just lacked something to make me feel invested.
Because I know the legend of Robin Hood, and the 'becoming an outlaw' part is apparently more interesting to me than the 'continued adventures of' part, I felt that the plot moved a bit more slowly. I don't regret reading it, but neither do I feel inclined to read the final book in the series, Tuck.
I recommend it for fans of the Robin Hood legend who have already read Hood. Because you'll definitely care more if you've read the first book in the series.Scarlet is the sequel to Hood, which I reviewed last week. I'm sad to say, while Hood captured my interest and engaged me, Scarlet left me feeling 'meh'.
I'm not exactly sure why this is. It isn't poorly written, although both the narrator and…
Reality BoyReality Boy, Downloadable Audiobook
by King, A. S.Downloadable Audiobook - 2013Downloadable Audiobook, 2013
artemishi's rating:
Added May 16, 2015
Comment:
Reality Boy is lovely. A.S. King, as usual, tackles the teen experience in America with some brutal honesty. That's what this author does: reality.
I may never have gone to school with kids who were on a "reality TV" show (I'm too old for that, thank goodness), but I knew plenty of kids who were angry, and didn't have a clear way to okay.
We all know that "reality TV" is farcical, where editors create storylines out of people's lives and NOBODY is represented accurately or fairly. But combining that with a bad home life (actually, two separate instances of bad home life) and resulting in characters who are real, pitiable but not necessarily likable, and a hero's journey of fixing yourself....it was lovely.
This was a fairly quick read, mostly because it's engaging. I really liked Gerald's voice, and the snarky narrative humor woven throughout, and the concept that anger is okay and accepting the humility and risk of love is okay. So I'm officially an A.S. King fan now.
Also, I listened to this via audiobook, and the narrator did a great job. There's a lot of swearing but it's edited as "Eff this" throughout....I couldn't tell if that was an edit done by the author, or the audiobook publisher.
I highly recommend this for fans of contemporary YA, classic but realistic 'coming of age' stories, people whose home lives were messed up or who have sympathy for those folks, fans of realism and honesty in narrative voice and (of course) anyone who had read and liked any A.S. King novel.Reality Boy is lovely. A.S. King, as usual, tackles the teen experience in America with some brutal honesty. That's what this author does: reality.
I may never have gone to school with kids who were on a "reality TV" show (I'm too old for that,…
artemishi's rating:
Added May 08, 2015
Comment:
The World Before Us centers around two mysteries, one that happened 16 years ago and one that happened over 100 years ago, but it's not a mystery. It's more of reflection, driven by a plot, about how events and memories form connections between people. So the synopsis is a wee bit misleading, and that can lead to disappointed expectations.
That aside, the narrative was interesting. It weaves among multiple perspectives and timelines, which was at times confusing, but the protagonist (Jane) is relate-ably a bit of a 30-something mess. And you're wanting, for the sake of the rest of the ensemble, to see her sort herself out.
I liked the honest look at Jane, a woman trying to find parts of her life that don't revolve entirely around that one incident, thinking she has, and then ultimately failing, but still creating things of value to others in the world.
It's definitely more 'literature' than modern novel, in terms of pacing and themes, but that doesn't mean it's not enjoyable. It's difficult to say much about this novel without giving anything away. I liked the journey, in that it was an interesting diversion that I could pick up and put down repeatedly as needed. I disliked the lack of closure about Lily.
I recommend it for fans of classic lit pacing, stories that meander between modern day and the Victorian era, stories that revolve around people more than events, and all things British.The World Before Us centers around two mysteries, one that happened 16 years ago and one that happened over 100 years ago, but it's not a mystery. It's more of reflection, driven by a plot, about how events and memories form connections between…
LumberjanesLumberjanes, Graphic Novel[1], Beware the Kitten Holy
by Stevenson, NDGraphic Novel - 2015Graphic Novel, 2015
artemishi's rating:
Added May 04, 2015
Comment:
The worst thing about Lumberjanes is that this library only has the first issue. And now that I finished that whimsical, funny, earnest, lovely graphic adventure of a diverse but very realistic group of girls...I need to read more! Honestly, the entire first issue is setting the stage for a supernatural mystery. I'm so Mal it's painful (in personality) but all of the characters are fun. Here's visual representation of girls of all types that aren't often represented (in graphic novels, film, etc.): the hyperactive tomboy, the girl who is really good at puzzles both numerical and linguistic, the nurturing girl who is supportive of others but not a mothering doormat type, etc. The visuals were fun and colorful, with a lot of comic-style facial expressions but nothing slap-dash. The plot is appropriate for middle grade (no cussing, no adult topics, very wholesome) but was also entertaining and funny to this 33-year-old cynic. So in short, I highly recommend it for anyone looking for some lighthearted humor and adventure, graphic novel-style. But especially if you like seeing diverse and realistic gender representation (on both sides!).The worst thing about Lumberjanes is that this library only has the first issue. And now that I finished that whimsical, funny, earnest, lovely graphic adventure of a diverse but very realistic group of girls...I need to read more! Honestly, the…
artemishi's rating:
Added May 02, 2015
Comment:
Hood was a great novel to follow up The Fool's Tale, as it's set in Wales around the same time frame, so I had a context for the political backdrop. Which is not necessary to enjoy the book (and it does a fine job setting up the political turmoil). The book also has a pronunciation guide in the back, which was also helpful.
So this is, obviously, a retelling of the Robin Hood myth, except it's pretty plausible. Robin in this case is Bran, a hotheaded Welsh prince. And the backdrop is less Sheriff of Nottingham and more Norman/Saxon/French overlords seizing the property and lives of Britons. It is definitely historical fiction that borders on fantasy, as there's deeply furrowed mysticism (which makes me want to read ancient Briton mythology) that plays a crucial role in character development.
This also mostly follows Bran becoming the man he's destined to be, before he's the known outlaw, and before the appearance of an Allen a'Dale or Will Scarlet character (although Little John, Maid Marion, Guy of Gisbourne, and Friar Tuck are all in this story). The next book in the series is title Scarlet, so I suspect those other iconic characters will make their way into the narrative that way.
In all, it was enjoyable, both for the recognizable elements of the classic tale, and for the story of a hero coming of age. And because I'm developing a keen fondness for all things Cymry.
I recommend it for fans of historical fiction, especially during the medieval era, especially England and thereabouts. Also for fans of magical realism and mysticism, and ensemble casts.Hood was a great novel to follow up The Fool's Tale, as it's set in Wales around the same time frame, so I had a context for the political backdrop. Which is not necessary to enjoy the book (and it does a fine job setting up the political turmoil).…
Dangerous WomenDangerous Women, Downloadable Audiobook
Downloadable Audiobook - 2013Downloadable Audiobook, 2013
artemishi's rating:
Added Apr 22, 2015
Comment:
Dangerous Women is an anthology from some really well-known Science Fiction, Historical Fiction and Fantasy authors. I mean, just look at that list. Every story somehow relates to a prompt of Dangerous Women. And as with all anthologies, some hit the nail on the head, while others had some vague possible connection with females in general and that was about it. Some had female protagonists, but the 'dangerous women' in some were side characters or characters we never met (but who impacted the main character offstage). I still can't decide whether that's a marginalization, or a clever reminder that not all dangerous women are heroes in their own right.
The majority of these stories were entertaining, and they felt longer than short stories usually do for me. More like novellas. I recommend it for fans of any of the above authors, female protagonists, the concept that women can be dangerous and even deadly (whether they're a force for good, or evil) and short stories. It's long, but even the lackluster stories weren't DNFs, and a handful of them really stood out.
Also, I listened to this as an audiobook, and there were something like 16 narrators for it. All of them did a great job (except Stana Katic, whom I loved in Castle but who chooses the oddest line breaks and thus her narratives came off like an open mic poetry jam). The volume needed adjustment on some as well, but the overall production value was good, and the narrators were engaging.Dangerous Women is an anthology from some really well-known Science Fiction, Historical Fiction and Fantasy authors. I mean, just look at that list. Every story somehow relates to a prompt of Dangerous Women. And as with all anthologies, some hit…
artemishi's rating:
Added Apr 22, 2015
Comment:
The Fool's Tale is not your usual medieval fiction. It's utterly compelling, with three main characters who are each lovable and hateful in equal measure (I love me some fallible characters). It makes for an excellent history lesson in terms of the relationship between Wales and England during the reign of Richard the Lionhearted (something I knew nothing about, previously). It's also an excellent story of human nature, obligation and power.
There's romance, but it's also not your typical setup. And nobody is made into a villain (and everybody is), and nobody is the hero (and everybody is). It's complex but not complicated, and although the first half was a bit slow and frustrating because I didn't like any of the three very much, by the middle of the book it took off. By the end, I was gasping and flipping pages like a fiend, skipping sleep and totally emotionally overwrought.
So, of course, I highly recommend it for fans of historical fiction, especially medieval. Also for fans of complex, three-dimensional characters with grey morality who are so real you feel like you could touch them. Also for fans of England, and Wales. And classic lit/myth (like Beowulf, Tristan & Isolde, Der Ring des Nibelungen, Arthurian legend, etc).The Fool's Tale is not your usual medieval fiction. It's utterly compelling, with three main characters who are each lovable and hateful in equal measure (I love me some fallible characters). It makes for an excellent history lesson in terms of the…
artemishi's rating:
Added Apr 06, 2015
Comment:
Right on the heels of The Serpent's Tale, I was lucky enough to read the third in the Mistress of the Art of Death series, Grave Goods.
Like with all the others, Adelia is a feisty, intelligent heroine, who is also hobbled by her gender (given that it's set during the reign of Henry II). This story takes place a few years after the second book does. This time, it's set around a mystery in Glastonbury. There's plenty of reference to Arthurian legend, as well as (of course) early medical science.
As before, you can read this as a stand alone, though you may be a bit lost with the rare references to events of the second and first books. Truthfully, those bits are only to establish that there's a romantic history between Adelia and Rowley- which is obvious enough as it is.
I recommend it for fans of the first and second book in the series, fans of Arthurian legend (especially the historical bits), medieval historical fiction, intelligent female protagonists, and CSI-style murder mysteries.Right on the heels of The Serpent's Tale, I was lucky enough to read the third in the Mistress of the Art of Death series, Grave Goods.
Like with all the others, Adelia is a feisty, intelligent heroine, who is also hobbled by her gender (given…
artemishi's rating:
Added Apr 03, 2015
Comment:
Ariana Franklin is one of my favorite historical fiction/mystery writers, so given that I devoured her first in this series (Mistress of the Art of Death), I was really looking forward to diving into The Serpent's Tale. And I was not disappointed!
Like a good CSI show, this book keeps you guessing about the guilty party until the end. Even when Adelia figures it out, she doesn't say it (thus letting us readers in) until it's necessary. But beyond the deeper double-mystery driving the plot, there's a delightful attention to detail with the historical fiction side of things. Adelia Aguilar is an exceptional woman- trained at the School of Medicine in Salerno (which did admit female students!) and working in England, she's more analytical and calculating than almost everyone around her. By modern standards, she's an amazing woman. By period standards, she's frightening. But the struggles she must endure, and the broader strokes of church and state power struggles, attitudes toward women, classism, etc. are all beautifully woven into the story, providing an accurate (but not distracting) environment.
In short, I loved it. It was an excellent follow-up to her first novel, and I'm about to dive into the third one (which I think, sadly, is the last Adelia novel). I highly recommend it to fans of Ariana Franklin and the first book. However, if you haven't read the first you can still pick up the second without being lost- there's good exposition in there. If you like medieval historical fiction, strong (intelligent) female characters, good murder mysteries, rural England of the past, political power struggles, the discovery of scientific processes, and good writing....you should definitely pick this one up.Ariana Franklin is one of my favorite historical fiction/mystery writers, so given that I devoured her first in this series (Mistress of the Art of Death), I was really looking forward to diving into The Serpent's Tale. And I was not…
artemishi's rating:
Added Mar 22, 2015
Comment:
So in an effort to break out of trilogies, I listened to the audiobook of The Maze Runner. Whoops! Turns out, it's a trilogy. Can we be done with trilogy obsession, please? I get the feeling this one could probably be two books and do just fine. *ahem* Anyway, that rant aside:
The Maze Runner was a decent YA adventure story. It's not very deep (though there's plenty of mystery) and the hero just 'gets' things without much effort (though he's apparently the only kid amid 25 that has the kind of compassionate honor that would lead one to try and save others). The plot is very much driven by the action, which is very much a summer blockbuster kind of thing. So I imagine the movie fits well with the story.
The audiobook narrator did a good job handling different voices, accents, and cadences, which I appreciated. I suppose my biggest impression of it was 'meh', because I didn't feel invested in any of the characters. Except maybe Newt, who is clearly awesome and haunted and we know virtually nothing about.
In the great tradition of YA dystopian, the ending is a cliffhanger and presumably the second book begins the day after the first one ends. I'll read it mostly because I want to see if there's a maze scenario that's all-female and how that differed. But I don't feel terribly compelled.
In all, I'd recommend it for anyone wanting a YA action novel, the kind of easy summer read that you can blitz through in a week and then move on from easily. Or anyone who liked the premise of Lord of the Flies (just don't expect the same thing here).So in an effort to break out of trilogies, I listened to the audiobook of The Maze Runner. Whoops! Turns out, it's a trilogy. Can we be done with trilogy obsession, please? I get the feeling this one could probably be two books and do just fine.…
artemishi's rating:
Added Mar 20, 2015
Comment:
I was told (twice, by two separate people) that the ending of Allegiant would make me want to throw the book across the room. So I went into it fully ready to be pissed off.
And you know what? I loved it. But it took some time. The initial switching of perspective between Tris and Tobias was off-putting. Tobias seemed to be making a lot of snap judgements and stupid decisions that seemed out of character for him...until I realized that we've only known his character through Tris' eyes, so of course it feels out of character. And of course when Tris is thinking he's acting like an idiot, so are we the reader.
But the thing is, Roth hit (albeit quickly, almost shocking quickly) the kernels of a relationship. I love that neither Tris nor Tobias are less individual without each other. I love that they don't pine, and even when they grab quick moments everything is very matter-of-fact (they way they themselves are). I love that they can see, and point out, fault. That they can assign blame without being at the emotional level of a three-year-old. That they can apologize, and recognize when they're projecting, and let go of the smaller annoyances AND stand their ground on the big stuff.
To me, their relationship, harried and rushed though it was, felt incredibly mature and healthy.
Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of "are you freaking kidding me WHY?!?!" moments (mostly aimed at Tobias, this time around). And the driving political tension plot stuff is pretty superficial. And the conflict resolution at the end seemed a little trite. But the big "throw the book at the wall" moment actually felt right to me- it felt real, it felt worthy. I was fearing some sort of "Who shot JR?" Dallas shenanigans, and I was pleasantly surprised.
I recommend it, of course, for fans of Divergent and Insurgent. But also fans of no-happily-ever-afters, earnest romantic relationships, female protagonists, characters seeking connection but remaining well fleshed-out, and tears (because they're a good chance you'll get sniffly during it). It was, all told, a really nice ending to a trilogy that I enjoyed.I was told (twice, by two separate people) that the ending of Allegiant would make me want to throw the book across the room. So I went into it fully ready to be pissed off.
And you know what? I loved it. But it took some time. The initial…
artemishi's rating:
Added Mar 15, 2015
Comment:
Well, I am not a true Janeite (no surprise, I suppose) because I have the very unpopular opinion of disliking Death Comes to Pemberley. I expected a mystery set in Jane Austen's world, but what I got was a snorefest.
That's not to say that P. D. James' writing style is amateur. The author captures the cadence and lilt of Austen's voice pretty darn well. The problem is that it lacks entertainment. Austen's appeal lies largely in her witty descriptions of characters, and our growing to know them throughout the book by their actions and reactions. James uses characters we already know and, rather than flesh them out more, basically explains things that Austen left vague (like Darcy's motivation in certain aspects).
The mystery is not tantalizingly dangled in front of the reader, for us to piece together or even engage with. A thing happens, a period-appropriate legal response happens, and then everything is explained. There was absolutely no sense of suspense or intrigue, or titillation, at all.
Overall, this story was flat and dull to me, a series of events that plod along with nothing to keep me invested. Part of this is probably because it's largely centered around Darcy (whom I actually dislike), and there's a style of "blah blah blah, he said" that I found grating on the nerves. While James is stylistically quite Austen, the meat of the story is lacking.
I recommend it only to huge Austen fans, those that adore P&P (and Darcy) and want to see the characters again in any respect, and those that enjoy long-winded, dry explanations for everything.Well, I am not a true Janeite (no surprise, I suppose) because I have the very unpopular opinion of disliking Death Comes to Pemberley. I expected a mystery set in Jane Austen's world, but what I got was a snorefest.
That's not to say that P. D.…
The Goose GirlThe Goose Girl, Downloadable Audiobook
by Hale, ShannonDownloadable Audiobook - 2005Downloadable Audiobook, 2005
artemishi's rating:
Added Mar 04, 2015
Comment:
This retelling of the (non-Disney, rather dark) Goose Girl fairytale is excellent for both fans of the source material and those who have never heard of it. Some of the gorier specifics are included, but this one dives deeper into kingdom politics, magic, etc.
Ani comes into her own, but I hesitate to call it a 'coming of age' novel (it straddles the line between middle grade and YA, I think) because Ani has the grace to take every hardship in stride. She does have some handicaps, and also some amazing powers, but I feel like her real power came from being around some amazing supporting characters.
That being said, it was an enjoyable read/listen (aside from some poor editing in the audiobook, with music and odd spacing between sections). I didn't feel particularly connected to Ani, but there were compelling moments of "can it get any worse?!" and a sweet romance that kept me reading. Complex themes weave throughout (such as classism, criminal justice, etc.) but they're more background noise than addressed issues.
I look forward to reading more of the Books of Bayern, which promise to delve deeper into the established setting (and maybe light on other fairytales?). I recommend this for fans of fairytale retelling in the YA genre, riches-to-rags stories, ensemble casts (though Ani is clearly the sole protagonist), fantasy and magic.This retelling of the (non-Disney, rather dark) Goose Girl fairytale is excellent for both fans of the source material and those who have never heard of it. Some of the gorier specifics are included, but this one dives deeper into kingdom politics,…
Cinnamon and GunpowderCinnamon and Gunpowder, Downloadable Audiobook
by Brown, EliDownloadable Audiobook - 2013Downloadable Audiobook, 2013
artemishi's rating:
Added Feb 24, 2015
Comment:
Cinnamon and Gunpowder is pure brilliance. It's a swashbuckling story with plenty of high seas adventure and action; it's a political story about the evils inflicted by the British Empire (and China) surrounding opium; it's a story of redemption, growth, and rediscovering oneself; it's many other wonderful things I can't tell you, because spoilers.
In short, this book far exceeded my expectations and I absolutely adored it. It made me laugh out loud several times, it made me teary-eyed, it made me drool with the meal descriptions- it engaged me such that I was eager to dive back into it every time I had to turn the audiobook off. And the narrator was fantastic!
I highly recommend this book for fans of historical fiction, pirates, swashbuckling, food, unexpected and delightful characters, juxtapositions, dry wit, and enjoyable stories. Everybody should read it (or listen to it)!Cinnamon and Gunpowder is pure brilliance. It's a swashbuckling story with plenty of high seas adventure and action; it's a political story about the evils inflicted by the British Empire (and China) surrounding opium; it's a story of redemption,…
The Undertaking of Lily ChenThe Undertaking of Lily Chen, Graphic Novel
by Novgorodoff, DanicaGraphic Novel - 2014Graphic Novel, 2014
artemishi's rating:
Added Feb 17, 2015
Comment:
is a difficult story, both because the art didn't engage me and because it deals with a lot of death but only ever follows the surface words and actions around characters. It's hard to see if the protagonist is ever haunted, until he's literally haunted in the story. Frankly, the story didn't engage me BUT the odd combination of gorgeous watercolor backgrounds and child-like figure drawings for the characters was oddly compelling. It's gritty, through and through, so be forewarned on that.is a difficult story, both because the art didn't engage me and because it deals with a lot of death but only ever follows the surface words and actions around characters. It's hard to see if the protagonist is ever haunted, until he's literally…
Delilah Dirk and the Turkish LieutenantDelilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant, Graphic Novel
by Cliff, Tony (Comic book author)Graphic Novel - 2013Graphic Novel, 2013
artemishi's rating:
Added Feb 17, 2015
Comment:
is one of those graphic novels that is pure fun. The art was lush with vibrant color and fun background details, there were hilarious little onomotapeias scattered throughout, and the characters were charming. Delilah Dirk is the swashbuckling protagonist who turns every gender-based trope on its head. Selim plays the straight man, full of culture and earnestness. It's hard to say which character I loved more, but I will definitely be reading the rest in this series, when they come out.is one of those graphic novels that is pure fun. The art was lush with vibrant color and fun background details, there were hilarious little onomotapeias scattered throughout, and the characters were charming. Delilah Dirk is the swashbuckling…
artemishi's rating:
Added Feb 17, 2015
Comment:
This is typical Alan Moore in both art and story. It's not my favorite line art, but the use of color and detail is really well done. It's imaginative, grotesque and charming in equal parts, very reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland with the story's juxtaposition of whimsical and horrible. There's also a lot of nods to New Age and ancient religion concepts, both in story and art. The story itself can sometimes get bogged down with the sense that Moore is trying to cram as much info about Promethea into every panel as possible. But aside from those lecturing moments, I liked the concept of Imagination as a world-shaping force. I don't think I'll continue with the series, as the main characters don't have enough of a personality to keep me turning the page (although I can see where in a few volumes, they will).This is typical Alan Moore in both art and story. It's not my favorite line art, but the use of color and detail is really well done. It's imaginative, grotesque and charming in equal parts, very reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland with the story's…
Please Ignore Vera DietzPlease Ignore Vera Dietz, Downloadable Audiobook
by King, A. S.Downloadable Audiobook - 2011Downloadable Audiobook, 2011
artemishi's rating:
Added Feb 10, 2015
Comment:
Please Ignore Vera Dietz was actually edgy and gripping, with some laugh-out-loud funny turns of phrase and snark, and the kind of real-life complications that make a story authentic. The protagonist, Vera, is not so general that anyone can relate to her, but she's admirable as one of the few characters in the entire town who is intelligent, self-confident, and driven. If I were in her shoes, I'd be Breakdown Central even a third into the book.
Because she's such an admirable narrator, you keep flipping pages to find out what happened. And you can also side with her reasoning, which is why parts of this book broke my heart. I felt like Charlie was an authentic, earnestly real voice as well. I went to high school with boys who, as surface appearances go, were very Charlie-like. So of course, reading this book makes 16-year-old me wish I'd actually dared to befriend those boys.
In all, it was a compelling, engrossing read that felt more fiction than YA. I listened to it on audiobook, and Lynde Houck and the male 'guest narrator' both did a fantastic job. I highly recommend this one for fans of contemporary fiction, YA or not, especially ones that deal with friendships, secrets, and father/daughter relationships.Please Ignore Vera Dietz was actually edgy and gripping, with some laugh-out-loud funny turns of phrase and snark, and the kind of real-life complications that make a story authentic. The protagonist, Vera, is not so general that anyone can relate…
artemishi's rating:
Added Feb 08, 2015
Comment:
Dearest is the third in the whimsical fairytale mashup series, The Woodcutter Sisters. I actually liked this one the best of the three. Kontis appears to be improving in style and scope with each book, which makes for a nice change!
We follow Friday Woodcutter, who knows herself and is more honest with herself than our previous two heroines. Her voice seemed authentic to me, but that's probably because I've known a few Friday Woodcutter types, myself. There's also the continuing homage to a handful of fairy tales, primarily (not not only) every swan and goose fairy tale you've heard of.
I think what sets this book apart in the series is that it feels less like a fairytale mashup, and more like a story (or retelling) in its own right, with a fairytale environment backdrop. The pacing was good, and continuous, and the love was less saccharine (although still very much fairy tale love). The timeline happens concurrently with book 2 (Hero), but in a different part of the country. Overall, this made for a sweet story of adventure and love, centering around a character who didn't need to have a coming-of-age story as much as a triumphing-through-diversity story.
I recommend this one for fans of the first two books, although you can read it as a stand alone just fine, and fairytale retellings. Also stubborn female protagonists, reluctant romance, magic, and underdogs. And I'm also still hoping for a Thursday Woodcutter story (though I want to know how she became the Pirate Queen, and thus far all three stories happen in a forward timeline, not a flashback). We've still got to figure out what's going on with Seven and her coma sisters, which I imagine may be Peter's story; we also need Monday reunited with her daughter now that we the audience know what's going on there. And more Conrad, please. But first, let's get the Thursday story!Dearest is the third in the whimsical fairytale mashup series, The Woodcutter Sisters. I actually liked this one the best of the three. Kontis appears to be improving in style and scope with each book, which makes for a nice change!
We follow…
Comment: