Game of Thrones Roundup - Chapters 44-58

Extremely late, but here I am for post number 4 in the ASOIAF Book Club with Jamie from Mithril Wisdom, Ria from Bibliotropic, and Heather from Reading, Writing, and Everything In Between! We are reading Game of Thrones together in 10 weeks.

Ria: What do you think of the chapters from Bran's perspective? Do they more like filler material, a means to see what's going on where other main characters can't be, or do you think there's going to be something more important that he'll take a central role in? - See more at: http://www.mithrilwisdom.com/2013/08/game-of-thrones-chapters-44-58.html#sthash.tym5PgGp.dpuf

Ria: What do you think of the chapters from Bran's perspective? Do they more like filler material, a means to see what's going on where other main characters can't be, or do you think there's going to be something more important that he'll take a central role in?

I have a suspicion that Bran is going to become very important, perhaps gain the gift of prophecy or something, and I think these chapters are leading up to whatever it is.

Allison: Why do you think so much emphasis is put on Dany's dragon eggs in the story so far?

I think they are to remind us that she is the last dragon, but I also think they will have a significant role in the future. Yes, I am waiting for them to hatch.

Jamie: Why do you think Jon Snow goes to such great lengths to protect and help out Sam Tarly?

I think Jon wishes he had a friend like that to protect him when he was younger. His friendship with Sam is sweet!

Heather: Do you think Ser Jorah Mormont is helping Daenerys as part of a new life for himself, or rather he sees her as his ticket back to his homeland?

I wonder about Mormont's agenda; I am unsure what it is. I feel like he wants to get back at Ned at some point, and maybe sees Daenerys as his ticket to do that. I wonder if he is also falling in love with her. We'll see...

Final Thoughts:
Almost to the end of the book, and still so many unresolved things. It was satisfying seeing Viserys get his comeuppance, that's for sure.

Ria: What do you think of the chapters from Bran's perspective? Do they more like filler material, a means to see what's going on where other main characters can't be, or do you think there's going to be something more important that he'll take a central role in? - See more at: http://www.mithrilwisdom.com/2013/08/game-of-thrones-chapters-44-58.html#sthash.tym5PgGp.dpuf

Ria: What do you think of the chapters from Bran's perspective? Do they more like filler material, a means to see what's going on where other main characters can't be, or do you think there's going to be something more important that he'll take a central role in? - See more at: http://www.mithrilwisdom.com/2013/08/game-of-thrones-chapters-44-58.html#sthash.tym5PgGp.dpuf

Ria: What do you think of the chapters from Bran's perspective? Do they more like filler material, a means to see what's going on where other main characters can't be, or do you think there's going to be something more important that he'll take a central role in? - See more at: http://www.mithrilwisdom.com/2013/08/game-of-thrones-chapters-44-58.html#sthash.tym5PgGp.dpuf

Game of Thrones Roundup - Chapters 29-43

This is post number 3 in the ASOIAF Book Club with Jamie from Mithril Wisdom, Ria from Bibliotropic, and Heather from Reading, Writing, and Everything In Between! We are reading Game of Thrones together in 10 weeks.

Here are our questions this week:

Heather: What do you think of Catelyn Stark's sudden capture of Tyrion Lannister and her trek to see her crazy sister? Was it a mother's reaction seeking revenge, or a strong woman trying to do her best for the Realm?

I actually felt at the time I was reading it that Catelyn was reacting out of fear. Tyrion Lannister, in her mind, tried to murder her son and initiated the traumatic attack on herself, and I think she is actually afraid of him. This in conjunction with her anger and grief at what was done to Bran, I believe, caused her rash reaction. She has shown that she is capable of hating someone irrationally before (Jon Snow), and this seems to be happening here with Tyrion as well.

Ria: It seems that the author uses a good deal of archetypes as a base for his characters. Do you feel that this weakens the story when characters are models bordering on stereotypes, or does the large cast with a diverse number of archetypes balance that out?

Martin does seem to use archetypes, but I also think that he likes to do surprising things with these characters that break them out of their molds. For example, dwarfs in fantasy are known to bring humour to the story; Tyrion Lannister does this, yes, but he also says some of the most thought-provoking things in the novel and brings so much more to the story.

Jamie: Danaerys has grown quite bold since she was sold off to Khal Drogo, to the point where she has much less of a problem swinging for Viserys 'douchebag of the year' Targaryen. Do you think her development is down to her becoming stronger, the fact that she has a child to protect or is she getting comfortable in the safety of the khalasar?

Dany's story has actually been one of my favourite character development arcs so far. I think she is getting stronger because she feels like she finally belongs with a people in combination with her growing up and realizing she doesn't have to do everything Viserys says anymore. I loved the parts where she finally stood up to Viserys!

Allison: So far, I am generally pro-Stark and anti-Lannister, but in the case of Catelyn vs. Tyrion I am torn. Who do you feel allied with in their situation?

I'm leaning towards Tyrion, but I really do feel for Catelyn and applaud her for outwitting him! I am impressed that she was able to outsmart him, I really am. Though I think her decision to take him captive was stupid and based on irrational feelings.

Final Thoughts:

There aren't really any boring parts to this book yet, and I appreciate that. The action, interesting story, and character development just keep coming. I actually started watching the TV show this week because my brother had it; I watched up to the parts I've read. They have done a good job of keeping to the book so far, and I love the actors chosen for the parts!

Game of Thrones Roundup - Chapters 15-28

This is the second post for the A Song of Ice and Fire Book Club, where Jamie from Mithril Wisdom, Ria from Bibliotropic, Heather from Reading, Writing, and Everything In Between, and I are reading Game of Thrones in ten weeks, and asking each other questions as we go.

Jamie: Littlefinger and Varys banter really well with one another; I love their back and forth as they try to outdo one another. Who do you prefer and why?
We don't know much about Varys yet, but from what we do know I prefer Littlefinger. Even though Littlefinger is creepy, I kind of like him. He is witty and clever, and has made his own path for himself. I like that he helped out the Starks, though I wonder how strong his allegiance is. I guess we'll find out!

Heather: Arya and Sansa are clearly very different personalities with very different views on the world, despite coming from the same origins. Which do you identify with the most? Do you think the chasm building between them is becoming too great to be bridged, despite their father’s efforts to keep them closer?
I don't identify with Sansa very well. She is a princess, in more ways than one. I absolutely love Arya; she is one of my favourites. I like that she is brave and smart, and loves adventure. I think the two can bridge the chasm that's come between, though. They are different, but I think they will come to see that they need each other.

Allison: Ned Stark seems to be a pretty honourable guy so far–he obviously cares about his family and duty is important to him. I liked the part where he gives Arya back Needle and arranges for her to have lessons. However, I can’t bring myself to like him, because I have this foreboding feeling that he is going to do something terrible and make me hate him. What do you think of Ned so far?
I sort of answered my own question in my question! I like him so far, but I am hesitant to become attached because I feel like winter is coming with him yet. I do love the idea of him being played by Sean Bean in the movie, and look forward to seeing that!

Ria: What do you think of the situation involving how Jon turned enemies into allies on the Wall? Effective strategy, or overused Saturday-morning-cartoon plot device?
Some might get tired of the turning-enemies-to-allies plot device, but I love it. Jon has constantly been thinking about his self and his own problems so far (and who can blame him), but now he's learning to think about others too. I think he's got the heart to be a big encouragement and inspiration to these other boys, and the ability to make some life-changing friendships.

Final Thoughts:
I am enjoying the multiple points of view in Game of Thrones. And despite my efforts to not get attached, I already have found favourites in Arya, Jon, and Tyrion.

Game of Thrones Roundup - Chapters 1-14

Welcome to the Game of Thrones read-a-thon, otherwise known as the A Song of Ice and Fire Book Club, where Jamie from Mithril Wisdom, Ria from Bibliotropic, Heather from Reading, Writing, and Everything In Between, and I are reading Game of Thrones in ten weeks.

First thoughts:
Can this George R.R. Martin guy write, or what? He had me at the first page, which is something I haven't experienced lately in the newer books I've been reading.

A Song of Ice and Fire Book Club Questions:

Jamie: In the few chapters that we've seen already, Tyrion is amazing. His snark and wit mark him out as one of my favourites. Do you think his role is more the comic relief or a juxtaposition for the cruelty of his sibling Lannisters (opposites in appearance as well as personality)?
I think Tyrion's role is definitely much more than the comic relief. He has already said a lot of thought-provoking things, even in just these first chapters. He is an odd combination of wise, sarcastic, witty, and dark, and I look forward to reading more about him.

Allison: What do you think the names chosen for the direwolves say about the children's personalities? (Bonus question: what would you name your direwolf?)
I found the naming of the wolves really interesting in these chapters, because they seemed to describe the children's characters. Jon Snow names his wolf Ghost, which seems appropriate for a bastard child whose step-mother wishes he was invisible. Rickon names his Shaggydog, which seems appropriate for a little boy that we don't know much about yet. Arya calls hers Nymeria after a warrior queen, which says a lot about her aspirations (confirmed when Jon gives her a sword later).

Sansa names hers Lady, which fits perfectly with the princess-y character she seems to be so far. Robb's wolf is Grey Wind, which seems fitting for a fighter and an older boy. Bran's wolf is unnamed yet, which is interesting because he is so young and most little boys would slap a name (like Shaggydog) on immediately, but he took time to think it through.

I would probably name my direwolf something shadowy, like Spectre, or something Old English, like Bardou.

Heather: Have you seen the television series before reading the books? If yes, has it influenced how you read them?
I haven't, but I'm inspired to after I read this first book. I'm curious to see the differences, and how the actors portray these characters.

Ria: "[...] a mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge." What do you think about the veracity of Tyrion's line there, especially in a world that seems to prize physical strength more highly than intelligence.
I think many characters have undervalued the importance of intelligence, and they will probably end up paying the price for it. Tyrion may be saying that because it's all he's got to hope for, but I think there's truth in it, and we will see some pretty awesome things from him to prove it yet.

Final Thoughts:
I know that lots of characters die in this series. I won't get attached to anyone. I won't.

Darn it, Jon Snow's already my favourite.

Want to read A Game of Thrones?

Have you, like me, been wondering what all the hype is about with this series, but have been holding off because the books just look so long? Or perhaps you love the show and want to see how it came into being? Or maybe you just want a new epic fantasy series to dig into?

Well then, join me and my fellow adventurer Jamie Gibbs from Mithril Wisdom in the beginnings of A Song of Ice and Fire Book Club.

Starting today, July 1, we are going to read through A Game of Thrones in ten weeks (this figures to about 10 pages a day—a leisurely pace, I think). And we will be doing some conjunctive roundup posts every other Saturday as we read.

If you want to read along with us, please do! If you just want to keep up with our possibly wild, possibly meandering, possibly entertaining thoughts on Martin's masterpiece, stay tuned for the Saturday posts (and Twitter conversations using the hashtag #asoiafbookclub)!

Jamie is actually planning to read the first four novels—A Game of Thrones, A Clash of Kings, A Storm of Swords, A Feast of Crows—in the upcoming months before season 4 of the TV show airs next March (read his post here).

I have only promised to read the first one, and will only continue on the adventure with him if I really like it (I know, I'm a fickle fellow adventurer, aren't I, Jamie?).

A Game of Thrones, here we come. I'm ready to be wowed.

(Haven't heard of George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series? Check it out on Goodreads.)

(Like the cool House sigil above? I made it on www.jointherealm.com. Jamie's got one too. We're geeks like that.)

My Attempt to Read Zombie Novels

The nice folks at Titan Books were kind enough to offer me a couple zombie novels to add to my to-read pile. I've never tried the genre, but decided I'd give it a go to see what all the fuss is about.

Plague Town and Plague Nation are about Ashley Parker, a "wild card" who is immune to the zombie virus. Because of this, she is recruited by the government to fight the rapidly expanding plague of zombies.

Ashley is sassy, witty, and bad-ass. She also uses an awesome sword, which gives her even more points in my books.

One of my favourite scenes is in Plague Nation when one of the "regular" soldiers makes some inappropriate comments about her, and she (giving him every chance to apologize and walk away) ends up breaking his nose without breaking a sweat.

I also appreciate many of the geek references that I didn't expect to find in a zombie novel. The author often mentions movies and shows like Star Wars and Big Bang Theory, and makes many other pop culture references.

Ashley's wit and quick tongue make for entertaining reading, but I wish she'd show some weakness at some point. She seems to deal with pain and stress by being angry, and I did find this tiresome after a while. That's partly what held these "okay" books from being "good" for me. I love characters that show me they are truly human.

I am also the first to admit that zombies aren't really my thing, and these books have confirmed that for me. There was lots of violence, lots of blood and gore, lots of swearing--all things to be expected in zombie novels, of course. I do like action, but violence for the sake of violence seems to be what zombie stories are all about.

My final thoughts: entertaining, but not my cup of tea.

My next foray into the zombie universe will be the Walking Dead, and if I don't like that, I give up on zombies!

Best Magic Systems: Part 2

When reading sci-fi and fantasy, I am always attracted by unique magic systems. Sometimes authors come up with the most creative ideas that enthrall me and give the fantasy world life. I am going to share with you the few of the best I've come across.

Second on my list (and these are in no particular order) is the magic system from the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. It is such an intricate, well thought out system and is perfect for a sweeping fantasy saga like Wheel of Time.

In Wheel of Time, some people are able to channel the One Power, which has two sections: saidin and saidar. Men can channel saidin and women can channel saidar. The One Power can be woven into spells using the five elements: earth, water, air, fire, and spirit.

At the heart of the story is the fact that saidin has been tainted by the Dark One, so any man who channels it will eventually go mad and die. Because of this, female channelers formed an organization called Aes Sedai and hunt down male channelers.

There are so many complex rules to the magic system that I don't even know where to start to tell you how amazing Robert Jordan's creative mind is. For example, the Aes Sedai use the One Power to bond Warders to them for protection, they can make inter-dimensional portals, they can heal, create illusions and wards, use mind control, and much more.

Not every channeler can do all these things; everyone has their own strengths and abilities. Men are generally stronger with earth and fire and women with water and air. Women can form a circle to do more powerful channeling and shield someone from the One Power.

Jordan's world has the most amazingly complex magic system that I have ever read about.

Book Review: THE GOLEM AND THE JINNI

Author: Helene Wecker
Publisher: Harper
Pub Date: April 23, 2013

Chava is a golem, a creature made of clay, brought to life to by a disgraced rabbi who dabbles in dark Kabbalistic magic. When her master-the husband who commissioned her-dies at sea on the voyage from Poland, she is unmoored and adrift as the ship arrives in New York harbor in 1899.

Ahmad is a jinni, a being of fire, born in the ancient Syrian desert. Trapped in an old copper flask by a Bedouin wizard centuries ago, he is released accidentally by a tinsmith in a Lower Manhattan shop. Though he is no longer imprisoned, Ahmad is not entirely free-an unbreakable band of iron around his wrist binds him to the physical world.

Meeting by chance, Chava and Ahmad become unlikely friends whose tenuous attachment challenges their opposing nature-until the night a terrifying incident drives them back into their separate worlds. But a powerful threat will soon bring the Golem and the Jinni together again, challenging their existence and forcing them to make a fateful choice. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 It's been a long time since I've opened a book and devoured huge chunks of it at a time. The Golem and the Jinni was captivating.

There wasn't a lot of action, which I normally demand in a book; The Golem and the Jinni is just plain good storytelling. Wecker delves into what it would be like to be a supernatural creature living among humans, trying to hide. She masterfully weaves magical fantasy and historical fiction in this tale, combining the stories of characters and showing how their lives intertwine.

The characters are fleshed out and believable. Chava, the golem, is passive and afraid of herself and others, yet she stubbornly holds on to her life. She is also gentle and aware of others' feelings. The Jinni is outgoing and selfish with a temper to boot, yet somehow the two end up becoming friends. Some of the best dialogue in the story is after they meet and commence to arguing with each other.

I love how Wecker portrays them as fugitives, not as superheroes. These are creatures that would be destroyed if they are found out, and they know it. They also have to deal with the loneliness of being one of a kind.

At over 500 pages, I thought this book might be a tedious read, but it didn't feel too long and the pages flew by. The Golem and the Jinni is stunningly written and will take you to an enthralling world of magic and 19th century New York. Highly recommended.

 

This post was part of a TLC Book Tour for The Golem and the Jinni. Go here for a list of the rest of the tour stops, and to read more reviews of the book. Also, check out the book trailer!

 

Best Magic Systems: Part 1

When reading sci-fi and fantasy, I am always attracted by unique magic systems. Sometimes authors come up with the most creative ideas that enthrall me and give the fantasy world life. I am going to share with you the few of the best I've come across.

First on my list is the magic system from The Seventh Tower series by Garth Nix. I love how creative the world building is in this series, and the magic system is integral to it. The story is set in a world of darkness, where a veil covers the sky, hiding the sun completely.

The Chosen, the people who live in the castle below the veil, rely on light magic as a means of life. To use light magic, you have to possess a sunstone, and every Chosen is trained in its use.

Sunstones emit different colours of light when you concentrate on them, and each colour can do different things, or they be weaved together to make more complicated spells. Red, as the first colour in the spectrum, does the most basic spells. Violet, as the last colour, can be used to make the most complex and powerful magic.

Certain powerful artifacts were made out of sunstones, like the fingernail Milla finds that produces an awesome whip of light, and sunstones are used to bind shadows to their masters.

Cool, no? I have no idea how Garth Nix came up with this stuff, but it's brilliant, and it makes this series unique.

Book Review: THE FOREVER KNIGHT

Author: John Marco
Publisher: DAW Hardcover
Pub Date: April 2, 2013

Lukien is the Bronze Knight, beloved by his kingdom and renowned in battle throughout his world. After betraying his king and losing his beloved, he wishes only for death, but rather than die, Lukien is given a chance for redemption: to be the protector of the Inhumans—those fragile mortals who live deep in the desert, far from the prying eyes of their world. These remarkable individuals have been granted magical powers in exchange for the hardships and handicaps life has handed them. And Lukien, now immortal himself, must be their champion. But how can one man, even an immortal warrior, protect hundreds from a world of potential enemies? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

Though it was the fourth book in a series, I didn't have trouble following Lukien's journey in this book. His back story was made clear without slowing down the narrative (in fact, I'd be interested to go back and read the first books), and the plot clipped along with the adventure and some heart-wrenching events.

The thing that drew me in from the beginning was Lukien's spirit protector, Malator, who resides in Lukien's sword. Lukien seems to be close to immortal because of Malator, and this is something that the knight struggles with. At points, he just wants to give up and die--or he thinks he does, until he is brought face to face with that option.

One thing I didn't buy was Lukien's choice to bring a little girl, Cricket, along with him to a dangerous land to act as his squire. Lukien is brave and honourable, and clearly struggles with things like right and wrong, and life and death. I feel like a knight like him would never, ever bring a young girl to certain danger like that, no matter how much she begged to come along.

However, Cricket's involvement in the story is key, so I have to overlook that fact. She is my favourite character in the book, bringing cheer to Lukien's darkened heart. And the fact that she can't remember her past keeps me curious throughout their journey.

The Forever Knight was an entertaining read, well written with a tragic twist. It could be read as a stand alone, but I'd suggest starting at the beginning of the series if you are interested in following Lukien's transformational journey.

This post was part of a TLC Book Tour for The Forever Knight. Go here for a list of the rest of the tour stops, and to read more reviews of the book.

My To-Read Pile

I like to see what other people have on their reading lists, so I thought I'd show you mine. Summaries from Goodreads.

Emilie and the Hollow World

While running away from home for reasons that are eminently defensible, Emilie’s plans to stow away on the steamship Merry Bell and reach her cousin in the big city go awry, landing her on the wrong ship and at the beginning of a fantastic adventure.

Taken under the protection of Lady Marlende, Emilie learns that the crew hopes to use the aether currents and an experimental engine, and with the assistance of Lord Engal, journey to the interior of the planet in search of Marlende’s missing father.

With the ship damaged on arrival, they attempt to traverse the strange lands on their quest. But when evidence points to sabotage and they encounter the treacherous Lord Ivers, along with the strange race of the sea-lands, Emilie has to make some challenging decisions and take daring action if they are ever to reach the surface world again.

 Encounters of Sherlock Holmes

A brand-new collection of Sherlock Holmes stories from a variety of exciting voices in modern horror and steampunk, including James Lovegrove, Justin Richards, Paul Magrs, Guy Adams and Mark Hodder. Edited by respected anthologist George Mann, and including a story by Mann himself.

 Quintessence

 Imagine an Age of Exploration full of alchemy, human dissection, sea monsters, betrayal, torture, religious controversy, and magic. In Europe, the magic is thin, but at the edge of the world, where the stars reach down close to the Earth, wonders abound. This drives the bravest explorers to the alluring Western Ocean. Christopher Sinclair is an alchemist who cares only about one thing: quintessence, a substance he believes will grant magical powers and immortality. And he has a ship.

 The Golem and the Jinni

Chava is a golem, a creature made of clay, brought to life to by a disgraced rabbi who dabbles in dark Kabbalistic magic. When her master-the husband who commissioned her-dies at sea on the voyage from Poland, she is unmoored and adrift as the ship arrives in New York harbor in 1899.

Ahmad is a jinni, a being of fire, born in the ancient Syrian desert. Trapped in an old copper flask by a Bedouin wizard centuries ago, he is released accidentally by a tinsmith in a Lower Manhattan shop. Though he is no longer imprisoned, Ahmad is not entirely free-an unbreakable band of iron around his wrist binds him to the physical world.

Meeting by chance, Chava and Ahmad become unlikely friends whose tenuous attachment challenges their opposing nature-until the night a terrifying incident drives them back into their separate worlds. But a powerful threat will soon bring the Golem and the Jinni together again, challenging their existence and forcing them to make a fateful choice.

Earth Girl

2788. Only the handicapped live on Earth. While everyone else portals between worlds, 18-year-old Jarra is among the one in a thousand people born with an immune system that cannot survive on other planets. Sent to Earth at birth to save her life, she has been abandoned by her parents. She can’t travel to other worlds, but she can watch their vids, and she knows all the jokes they make. She’s an ‘ape’, a ‘throwback’, but this is one ape girl who won’t give in.

Jarra invents a fake background for herself – as a normal child of Military parents – and joins a class of norms that is on Earth to excavate the ruins of the old cities. When an ancient skyscraper collapses, burying another research team, Jarra’s role in their rescue puts her in the spotlight. No hiding at back of class now. To make life more complicated, she finds herself falling in love with one of her classmates – a norm from another planet. Somehow, she has to keep the deception going.

What looks interesting to you? What's on your reading list?

Book Review: BLOODFIRE QUEST

Author: Terry Brooks
Publisher: Del Rey
Pub Date: March 12, 2013

I usually only write a book review if I love the book; I know how much work an author puts into his writing and I don't want to drag him down just because his story wasn't my cup of tea. However, Terry Brooks is my favourite author and I've written many good reviews of his work, so I don't feel bad telling you I was a bit disappointed by this book.

I loved the first book in the series, Wards of Faerie, as it set up the story just right with a perfect amount of suspense and adventure. Bloodfire Quest, however, just seemed to drag on without progressing the plot much at all. Not only that, but I'm confused as to why it is called "Bloodfire Quest" in the first place, as I didn't think that was the main part of the tale. They do set off to find the Bloodfire, but I felt the heart of the story was with the Ard Rhys and Redden who are trapped in the Forbidding.

Also, I liked the love story brewing between Cymrian and Aphenglow since the previous book, but then it abruptly came to a climax without really climaxing--I didn't feel as tense or involved as I should have.

Eventually the story did progress about half way through the book, and it was still a good adventure, just not what I've come to expect from Terry Brooks. I will still read the next one, of course, and I hope it will draw me in more like Wards of Faerie did.

Ebook News: The Seafort Saga

David Feintuch's sci-fi series, The Seafort Saga, is now available from Open Road Media in ebook format. The first book, Midshipman's Hope, was originally published in 1994 by Orbit.

I'd never heard of the series before Open Road sent me the announcement, but I am intrigued by Goodread's description:

A hideous accident kills the senior officers of UNS Hibernia--leaving a terrified young officer to save three hundred colonists and crew aboard a damaged ship on a seventeen-month gauntlet to reach the colony of Hope Nation. With no chance of rescue or reinforcement, Nicholas Seafort must overcome despair, exhaustion, guilt; he must conquer malfunctions, mutiny, and an alien horror beyond human understanding. He must save lives. And he must take them, in the name of duty.

Sounds like it could be an adventurous good time, though I am often hesitant about adult sci-fi because sometimes it develops in favour of tech and politics instead of plot and character development. Open Road has kindly provided me with a copy of Midshipman's Hope, so I'll let you know what I think when I finish it! Anyone read anything by Feintuch and can tell me what I'm getting myself into?

About the Author: In the 1990s, David Feintuch took the science fiction community by storm with his literary debut. Feintuch won the prestigious John W. Campbell for Best New Science Fiction Author with his first Seafort novel, Midshipman's Hope.

For more information or to see the new ebook cover art, please view the author's profile page here, or his fun Facebook page here.

Looking Forward to 2013

I posted about my favourites from 2012 last week, so I thought I'd share the books, video games, movies, and tv series that I am most looking forward to in 2013.

Books

Fantasy - Bloodfire Quest by Terry Brooks
Pub Date: March 12, 2013

Long ago, many dangerous creatures were locked behind a magical barrier, bringing peace and prosperity to the land. But now those barriers are eroding, and generations of embittered prisoners are about to escape. War seems inevitable...unless a few brave souls can stem the tide. While some venture into the forbidden lands, others must undertake a perilous quest-a quest whose success will mean the death of a young girl who has barely even begun to live, but whose failure will have unimaginable consequences. From riveting start to cliffhanger ending, this is an epic for the ages! (synopsis from Goodreads)

Sci-Fi - The Best of All Possible Worlds by Karen Lord
Pub Date: February 5, 2013

A proud and reserved alien society finds its homeland destroyed in an unprovoked act of aggression, and the survivors have no choice but to reach out to the indigenous humanoids of their adopted world, to whom they are distantly related. They wish to preserve their cherished way of life but come to discover that in order to preserve their culture, they may have to change it forever.

Now a man and a woman from these two clashing societies must work together to save this vanishing race—and end up uncovering ancient mysteries with far-reaching ramifications. As their mission hangs in the balance, this unlikely team—one cool and cerebral, the other fiery and impulsive—just may find in each other their own destinies . . . and a force that transcends all. (synopsis from Goodreads)

YA Fantasy - Pantomime by Laura Lam
Pub Date: February 5, 2013

R. H. Ragona’s Circus of Magic is the greatest circus of Ellada. Nestled among the glowing blue Penglass—remnants of a mysterious civilisation long gone—are wonders beyond the wildest imagination. It’s a place where anything seems possible, where if you close your eyes you can believe that the magic and knowledge of the vanished Chimaera is still there. It’s a place where anyone can hide.

Iphigenia Laurus, or Gene, the daughter of a noble family, is uncomfortable in corsets and crinoline, and prefers climbing trees to debutante balls. Micah Grey, a runaway living on the streets, joins the circus as an aerialist’s apprentice and soon becomes the circus’s rising star.

But Gene and Micah have balancing acts of their own to perform, and a secret in their blood that could unlock the mysteries of Ellada. (synopsis from Goodreads)

YA Sci-Fi - Dualed by Elsie Chapman
Pub Date: February 26, 2013

The city of Kersh is a safe haven, but the price of safety is high. Everyone has a genetic Alternate—a twin raised by another family—and citizens must prove their worth by eliminating their Alts before their twentieth birthday. Survival means advanced schooling, a good job, marriage—life.

Fifteen-year-old West Grayer has trained as a fighter, preparing for the day when her assignment arrives and she will have one month to hunt down and kill her Alt. But then a tragic misstep shakes West’s confidence. Stricken with grief and guilt, she’s no longer certain that she’s the best version of herself, the version worthy of a future. If she is to have any chance of winning, she must stop running not only from her Alt, but also from love . . . though both have the power to destroy her. (synopsis from Goodreads)

Video Games

Mistborn: Birthright
Developer: Little Orbit
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360, Windows, Mac
Release Date: Fall 2013
Genre: Action-RPG

This game is a prequel to the Mistborn series by Brandon Sanderson, and the story and dialogue were written by Brandon Sanderson. I've heard great things about the Mistborn series though I've never read it. This game looks promising. 

Star Wars 1313

Developer: LucasArts
Platform: PS3, Xbox 360, PC
Release Date: 2013
Genre: Action-Adventure

I get to play as a bounty hunter instead of the usual Jedi? Yes, please. (Not that being a Jedi isn't fun, but, you know, it's been done.) This game sounds more gritty than past Star Wars games, as you navigate Coruscant's underworld trying to uncover a mystery using bounty hunter gadgetry and weapons. Sounds like fun times to me!

Movies

Iron Man 3
Release Date: May 3, 2013

Star Trek Into Darkness
Release Date: May 17, 2013

Ender's Game
Release Date: November 1, 2013

Thor: The Dark World
Release Date: November 8, 2013

TV Shows


Doctor Who, Season 7.5
Airing: April, 2013

Fringe, the End
Airing: January, 2013

Warehouse 13, Season  4.5
Airing: April, 2013

Woo! And there is my long list. Any of the above look good to you? What are you looking forward to in 2013?

2012 Highlights

Happy new year, everyone! I hope your new year's eve was filled with fun and cake. What, cake's not a new year's thing? Well, it should be. I thought I'd share with you my highlights from 2012 in books, video games, movies, and TV series.

Book: Wards of Faerie by Terry Brooks

I am a huge Terry Brooks fan, though some of his later books I'm not enjoying as much as the older ones. But I am loving this new series. The second book in the Dark Legacy of Shannara is on my Kindle waiting to be read and reviewed, and I can't wait to get to it. You can read my review of Wards of Faerie here.

Video Game: Mass Effect 3

I am cheating a bit with this one as I haven't actually gotten to play it yet, but I will say it has been my most anticipated to play game that came out in 2012, and I can't wait to get to it.

 Movie: The Avengers

I don't think this one needs an explanation. There was action. There was humour. There was Joss Whedon directing. It was a masterpiece. (My short review is here).

TV Show: Eureka

On it's final season this year, Eureka did not suffer from the "too many seasons" syndrome, where the show gets boring (Terra Nova), old (How I Met Your Mother), or just weird (Lost). The characters were great, the plots appropriately wacky, and the funny parts made me giggle. It was a satisfying end to a satisfying show. I love it when a show ends well.

 
 You can also check out my list of Top 5 Sci-fi/Fantasy TV Shows of 2012 on TV Geek Army.

Book Review: THE SEVEN MARKETS

Author: David Hoffman
Publisher: Ohbalto Media
Pub Date: November 22, 2012

Her whole life, Ellie MacReady has heard stories of the mysterious market that comes only once every century for three days.It's said the market is full of wonders--delicious foods, unusual trinkets, and strange travelers.When she finds out the market is coming to her town, Ellie is overcome with excitement. She can't wait to explore it with her soon-to-be fiance, Joshua.

She is unaware of the danger the market brings with it, however, in the form of an irresistible, self-centered prince who always gets what he wants. And at this market, he wants Ellie.

Imaginative, thrilling, and original, The Seven Markets is the most creative book I've read this year. Though it focuses on the main character, Ellie, every chapter was different and I didn't know what to expect next, which is what I loved about it.

The story begins in the 18th century, with a fantasy-like feel to it as there are mentions of magic and the market itself is other-worldly. However, it proceeds in leaps and bounds across time and we witness seven markets in a row, like the title suggests. As the markets only come once every century, the story ends well into the future. That's right, this book is both fantasy and sci-fi. Hoffman leaves the boundaries of what is expected of a genre writer well behind him in this fantastical mash-up.

Ellie gets caught up in something bigger than the small-town 18th century life she was expecting to live, and her journey is a harsh one. I can't say I liked her personality very much until the very end, and not feeling attached to the main character is usually a deal breaker for me, but her story was so fascinating I couldn't put this book down.

The one thing I didn't like was being jerked around in time--I wish these transitions could have been made smoother. First we were in the 18th century, then suddenly the story jumps to the 19th with no breather in between, and so on. However, I'm not sure how else spanning that many centuries could have been done without making the novel 1000 pages long.

This book fascinated me. Do pick it up and give it a read if you are looking for something unconventional in the sci-fi/fantasy realm.

Book Review: A COMING OF AGE

Author: Timothy Zahn
Publisher: Open Road
Pub Date: October 16, 2012 (first published 1984)

The first colonists to reach Tigris thought they had found Eden... but the planet had a horrifying effect on their children. Babies born there developed frightening telekinetic powers at the age of five. No one could control them -- and as the changelings grew and became aware of their abilities they initiated a bloodbath of chaos and violence that nearly destroyed the planet.

Two centuries after the Lost Generation, Tigrins have learned to cope with their strange planet and its effects. But a new threat is rising. In secret a medical researcher is experimenting with the TK ability. His guinea pigs are stolen children; his object, to extend their powers past adolescence and into adulthood. If he succeeds, Tigris faces disintegration. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

After reading this book, I am adding more Timothy Zahn novels to my to-read pile. The story was not what I was expecting, but it was fantastic. I was expecting a fast-paced action story, and instead I got a thought-provoking detective novel. 

The world building is what makes this story shine. Zahn asks the question "What would happen to our society if children suddenly developed the powers of telekinesis?" His answer: A world dependent on depriving children of knowledge until after their powers disappear at puberty, keeping them in line with a "hive" system where the children mentor each other. This new society also gives reign to adults who kidnap kids from their hives, exploit their abilities through manipulation, and then discard them after the kids reach puberty, leaving them without a home or education.

It is a bit slow moving at first, but picks up as the mystery of a kidnapped boy unravels. The story mainly follows three characters: Lisa, a girl struggling with her upcoming transition to adulthood and loss of her teeking abilities; Tirrell, the detective looking for the kidnapped boy; and Omega, a "prophet" manipulating a large group of children for his own purposes. It is only near the end of the book that we discover how these characters' lives intersect as answers to the mystery are revealed.

A Coming of Age is a fascinating read with a thought-provoking set of events and characters. If sci-fi mixed with a healthy dose of gritty mystery sounds good to you, give this one a go!

Timothy Zahn Ebook News

I know Timothy Zahn from his Star Wars novels (The Thrawn Trilogy), but he is also the author of many original works, including the Blackcollar Series, Spinneret, Deadman Switch, The Backlash Mission, Triplet, and A Coming of Age. I am pleased to announce these books are now available as ebooks!

To celebrate the release, here is a mini-documentary on Zahn:

I like how he compares writing to playing both sides of a game of chess (especially because I enjoy playing chess). When you have clever protagonists and antagonists, first you figure out a good move for one side, then turn the board around and figure out how the other side will get out of that sticky situation! Great comparison, Zahn.

A bit more on Zahn's books:

• The Blackcollar Series is a military science fiction series about a group of superhuman combatants
• A Coming of Age is a thoughtful tribute to what it means to come of age, face your fears, and even save the world. Readers of Dune, A Wrinkle in Time, Ender's Game, and The Chronicles of Narnia will be delighted to discover another tale that records the difficult yet crucial passage into adulthood.
• Spinneret poses a scientific puzzle whose answer could threaten humanity's salvation, or destruction.

Well I for one am captivated by the comparisons for A Coming of Age. A book like Dune, A Wrinkle in Time, Ender's Game, and Chronicles of Narnia? Let me at it. It is also about  telekinesis, which is what my work in progress is about, and I'd love to see another author's take on the subject. I've already got a copy on my Kindle and have started reading it, and I will be sure to post a review on it when I am finished.

You can check out Zahn's author page for more info on the releases and to see the brand new covers.

Are you a Zahn fan? Which of these books sounds interesting to you?

Cover Reveal: THE FAERIE GUARDIAN

Today, I'm honoured to help reveal the cover of Rachel Morgan's The Faerie Guardian! Isn't it lovely? I've enjoyed reading Guardian and Labyrinth, and now they are compiled in one book along with Traitor and Masquerade! Congratulations, Rachel!

Title: The Faerie Guardian
Author: Rachel Morgan
Release Date: 5 Nov 2012
Add to Goodreads

Protecting humans from dangerous magical creatures is all in a day’s work for a faerie training to be a guardian. Seventeen-year-old Violet Fairdale knows this better than anyone—she’s about to become the best guardian the Guild has seen in years. That is, until a cute human boy who can somehow see through her faerie glamour follows her into the fae realm. Now she’s broken Guild Law, a crime that could lead to her expulsion.

The last thing Vi wants to do is spend any more time with the boy who got her into this mess, but the Guild requires that she return Nate to his home and make him forget everything he’s discovered of the fae realm. Easy, right? Not when you factor in evil faeries, long-lost family members, and inconvenient feelings of the romantic kind. Vi is about to find herself tangled up in a dangerous plot—and it’ll take all her training to get out of it alive.

[This novel was originally published in four separate parts: Guardian, Labyrinth, Traitor and Masquerade. It includes bonus scenes at the end.]

Giveaway Time!

The bonus scenes at the end of the book are NOT written from the main character's point of view. If you'd like to win a $10 Amazon gift card, all you have to do is guess whose point of view these scenes are written from! Head on over to the cover reveal post at Rachel Morgan Writes and fill in the Rafflecopter form. There's a list of characters there that you can choose from. Good luck!

Book Review: THE ASSASSIN'S CURSE

Author: Cassandra Rose Clarke
Publisher: Angry Robot
Pub Date: October 2, 2012

Ananna of the Tanarau abandons ship when her parents try to marry her off to an allying pirate clan: she wants to captain her own boat, not serve as second-in-command to her handsome yet clueless fiance. But her escape has dire consequences when she learns the scorned clan has sent an assassin after her.

And when the assassin, Naji, finally catches up with her, things get even worse. Ananna inadvertently triggers a nasty curse — with a life-altering result. Now Ananna and Naji are forced to become uneasy allies as they work together to break the curse and return their lives back to normal. Or at least as normal as the lives of a pirate and an assassin can be. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

Pirates and assassins, you say? Yes, please. What I liked most about this book was the unconventional heroine and hero. Ananna is not beautiful, shy, or princess-like in any way. She is a pirate, and she acts and talks like a pirate. I especially enjoyed the scenes where she and Naji get a ride on a ship during their journey, and you really see her shine as she is in her element helping the crew sail it.

Naji reminds me of Howl from Howl's Moving Castle. He is brooding, grumpy, and totally oblivious to Ananna's feelings. Yet you can't help but like him and wonder about his past and how he got the scar on his face. The few moments where you see his vulnerability make me curious to know him better, and I hope the author will deliver in the next installments of the series.

I was expected more of a climax in the story, but there wasn't really one. The summary pretty much sums up what happens, though it is a great adventure. The ending leaves it wide open for the sequel. I enjoyed the Arabian/piratey flavour of this novel, and look forward to the next one.