REVIEW: THE FEATHERED MAN

Author: Jeremy de Quidt
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: Random House
UK Release date: 1st November 2012
Genre: YA, Horror, Historical
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

In a German town, long ago, lives a tooth-puller's boy called Klaus. It isn't Klaus's fault that he sees his master steal a diamond from the mouth of a dead man in Frau Drecht's lodging house, or that Frau Drecht and her murderous son want it for themselves.

He has nothing to do with the Jesuit priest and his Aztec companion who turn up out of the blue looking for it, or the Professor of Anatomy who takes such a strange interest in it. No, Klaus doesn't want any trouble. 

But when he finds himself with the diamond in his pocket, things really can't get much worse - that is, until the feathered man appears. Then they become a matter of life . . . and death.

The Feathered Man features some very strong characters, some of whom are very cruel and heartless. Particularly Frau Drecht who uses children as free labour and has an unusually high number of deaths in her boarding house. I loathed this woman and really wanted her to get her just desserts. In comparison, the two young children, Klaus and Liesel, were so innocent, naive and vulnerable. Because of this they ended up constantly on the run and all I wanted was for them to find safety and hope. My heart went out to them both because they had no parents or anyone to look out for them, and sorely needed someone to give them a hug, food and a warm bed. But in the poverty stricken German setting, safety and love were very hard to find.

The setting very much reminded me of Victorian London, due to the historical timing as well as the stark contrast between those with money and education and the poor struggling just to survive. There were also a fair few gruesome acts in the story from murder, torture and maltreatment which gave the town a very dark and sinister underbelly. This poverty meant that Klaus and Liesel were forced to work for horrible adults just to survive, and when they were both in danger (which was quite often!) I was wracked with fear for them. The plot also took a number of sharp twists and turns, and there was plenty of intrigue when new characters were introduced and I tried to figure out how hey might fit into the puzzle.

A huge part of the plot links to the spiritual and what happens after death. I’m not sure I completely understand the other world. In fact, if that’s what it is like afterwards, I’m not sure I want to know. And yet, the desire to know what lies beyond drove several of the characters to commit heinous acts of violence and murder. I did like that this spiritual element was balanced against the exploration of the physical through anatomy, and that the anatomists were intrigued in life after death despite having a scientific background. 

The Feathered Man is a dark and chilling tale of human nature and what happens when our curiosity about death exceeds the value of life.

Jeremy de Quidt is currently taking part in blog tour for The Feathered Man. Here on My Book Journey Jeremy will be answering some questions about his latest book – be sure to stop back on November 6th 2012. 

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: DEBUTANTES

Author: Cora Harrison
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
UK Release date: August 2012
Genre: Historical YA
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

It’s 1923 and London is a whirl of jazz, dancing and parties. Violet, Daisy, Poppy and Rose Derrington are desperate to be part of it, but stuck in an enormous crumbling house in the country, with no money and no fashionable dresses, the excitement seems a lifetime away.

Luckily the girls each have a plan for escaping their humdrum country life: Rose wants to be a novelist, Poppy a jazz musician and Daisy a famous film director. Violet, however, has only one ambition: to become the perfect Debutante, so that she can go to London and catch the eye of Prince George, the most eligible bachelor in the country.

But a house as big and old as Beech Grove Manor hides many secrets, and Daisy is about to uncover one so huge it could ruin all their plans—ruin everything—forever.

Although Debutantes is a historical fiction, I felt it a little hard to categorise as part of the swinging jazz era. Yes, it's the 1920s, jazz is up and coming, and fashion is changing to short skirts and bobbed hair. But there was still a feel of the Victorian tradition to it: family standing and inheritance by the eldest son is still common, and debutantes have coming out parties and are presented to the Queen. There was quite a lot of cross over between the two periods, particularly for the Derrington family. The four sisters redesigned old fashioned gowns to short dresses and skirts and they have to fight their old fashioned aunt and father who can often be stuck in their ways.

I found this mix of eras a little surprising and disconcerting at first, but the story also an exciting edge to it, as women were becoming more independent and could go out to work and earn their own living. Daisy's dream of becoming a film director and Rose's dream of becoming a journalist were real future options to them, but would not have been an option for women in a time not long before that.

Each of the four sisters had a very distinct personality. I liked Poppy, Daisy and Rose who each had their own ideas for making their way in the world and wanted to do things because they enjoy it. Poppy was passionate about jazz and her music, Rose constantly created and worked with words, making amusing little taglines to what was happening at any given moment, and Daisy filmed on her movie camera. Out of the sisters, I would say Violet was my least favourite, because she was moody, intent on marrying for money and wanted all the best material things. I think she became a better person as the story went on, but at the start of the book I was slightly bothered about the constant concern of being poor and desire to marry into a wealthy family.

The story was written from Daisy's perspective, who was very astute at understanding other people and their individual habits, and as the reader you get to an insight into each of the sister's lives. The plot was interesting, with twists and turns, romance and parties. The ending was slightly predictable, but overall I found it to be an enjoyable read. There were different mysteries and clues that had to be pieced together, which gave the story different elements beyond Violet's debutante season. If you like fashion, then you will love reading about the sister's redesign of old clothes, the parties they went to and their trips to London.

Debutantes is a lighthearted, fun read set in a time where everything is changing and there is plenty of fashion, romance, fun and frolicking.

Rating: 3.5*

REVIEW: THE PECULIARS

Author: Maureen Doyle McQuerry
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: May 2012
UK Release date: Amulet
Genre: YA
Read via NetGalley

On her 18th birthday Lena Mattacascar decides to leave the safety of home and travel to the dangerous and wild lands of Scree to find her father and discover the truth behind her goblin-like hands and feet. On her journey she meets young Jimson Quiggley on his way to start a new life as librarian to Mr Beasley at Zephyr House, and he offers Lena a job and a safe haven when she needs it. But as the hunt for peculiars increases, Lena, Jimson and the eccentric Mr Beasley must flee to Scree to survive.

Lena is on a journey of self discovery as she heads off to Scree to find out who her father really is and if the rumours of her being descended from a goblin are true. As being a peculiar is a considered shameful and peculiars are treated with discrimination, contempt and mistrust, Lena tries to hide her hands and feet and who she really is. As she travels further north though, she is faced with people who accept her for who she is and others who vilify her, and she must learn to stand up for herself and accept herself no matter what. She does this with courage and bravery, and she was a great protagnoist for the story.

The most intriguing characters for me were the inventor Mr Beasley and his mysterious cat. Mr Beasley was an eccentric, missing his eyebrows, and able to invent pretty much anything; and he was constantly joined by his cat, who seems to be rather human-like and hyper-intelligent and potentially hiding some deep dark secret. I loved the mystery surrounding this unusual pair and the fact that they seemed to somehow know everything and could pretty much solve anything too.

I was intrigued to find out who the peculiars might be. Do they have special abilities? Are their abnormalities just genetic anomalies? Is Lena one or not? In fact peculiars seems to pass down unusual traits, such as wings or goblinism. I would tell you more about them, but actually these are the only two types of peculiars that were mentioned and I don't know much else about peculiars in general. I spent a lot of the story waiting and wanting to find more peculiars but it never happened, and because of this expectation I was a little disappointed at the end. From the research I've done, this seems to be a standalone book. But actually it reads like there is more to come and frankly I think it would benefit from a follow-on book as such, which could involve more peculiars and more of a definitive conclusion to the story.

I had to admit I also had trouble placing the time and setting of the story. At first I thought it was set in a completely new fantasy place with Scree as a wilderness at its north. But as references were made to Darwin, Lister, and historical authors, I realised it was set somewhere in the late 1800s to early 1900s. I always get thrown a little when fantasy and reality are mixed together this way, and whilst other readers might not find it an issue I prefer historical and fantasy genres to be kept pretty separate.

The Peculiars is a steampunk infused, historical fantasy. Although I didn't necessarily enjoy some of the different aspects of the story, I think there is still plenty of potential for character development and more involvement from peculiars which could be better harnessed in a second book.

Rating: 3.5*

REVIEW: HARBINGER OF THE STORM

If you haven't yet read the first in this series, Servant of the Underworld, you can find my review here. There may be spoilers for this first book in the following review.

Harbinger of the Storm (Obsidian and Blood #2)
Author: Aliette de Bodard
Series: Yes, #2
UK Publisher: Angry Robot
UK Release date: January 2011
Genre: Historical fantasy

When the Revered Speaker Axayacatl-tzin dies, the fifth world is left vulnerable. Without a ruler, the Mexica Empire is no longer under the protection of Huitzilpochtli, the God of War, but is at the mercy of flesh-eating stardemons, not to mention the politics of electing a new emperor.

In order to discover who is behind the deaths of a council member and the Guardian to the Empire, Acatl, High Priest of the Dead, must throw himself into the political melee that ensues. Discovering that a stardemon was summoned from within the court means that Acatl must interview council members and become embroiled in discerning each man’s own political agenda, and figuring out who is telling the truth and who is playing a dangerous game.

When Axayacatl’s wife and sister to the ruler of neighbouring Texcoco, is found to have consorted with the murdered councilman, the mystery escalates and soon Acatl realises that the crimes are bigger than he could have imagined. Acatl will once again have to enter the god’s world of sacrifice, deception and trickery, with only the company of his fellow priests to help him survive. He must decide whether he can put aside his mistrust of politics and priests’ ambitions to save the empire.

Harbinger of the Storm is a complex murder mystery, spanning the everyday and the world of the gods. Set in Aztec culture, life is filled with danger as men struggle to gain power and favour from the menacing and unforgiving gods.

Despite his dislike of politics, Acatl is once again thrown into the midst of meddling high priests and scheming council members, of which he must decipher where the truth lies. Not trusting in politics or the men who dabble in it, Acatl is forced to fight for the future survival of the empire and put aside the ambitions and flaws of his counterparts. Although he doesn’t undergo such a dramatic personal trial as he did facing the past death of his father in Servant of the Underworld, Acatl is forced to make an important but personal decision that could affect the entire empire.

One of my favourite characters is Teomitl, brother of Axayacatl and previous sidekick to Acatl. Having fallen in love with Mihmatini, Teomitl must face his brother and heir to the throne, Tizic-tzin, who is adamant that their relationship cannot continue. Being of low rank, Mihmatini, Acatl’s sister, is deemed unworthy of being with Teomitl who will one day be heir apparent. With his patronage to Chalchiuhtlicue, Goddess of Lakes and Streams, Teomitl has become stronger and more powerful, and we see him bringing with her magical power throughout the story. He must not only learn to control his temper and rage, but must also put aside his own feelings and pride when he clashes with the ruler of Texcoco, Nezahual. Both are young and powerful, and I enjoy the interplay between the two as their personalities battle against each other.

I’m also really pleased to see Mihmatini become more involved in the story when she takes on an important role as Guardian of the Empire, which cements her relationship with Teomitl much to Tizoc-tzin’s disgust. In a very male dominated cast and after the loss of the previous Guardian Ceyaxochitl, it is good to see another female take some of the limelight, however she certainly deserves more. She is an interesting character with her own strengths as a woman and as a budding priestess. I can’t wait to see more of both her and Teomitl and how their relationship might blossom in the future.

Following on from its predecessor, Harbinger of the Storm encompasses an even greater cast of characters each with their own back stories and secrets, and it can often be confusing trying to remember who is priest of what and what each is hiding. Likewise the plot is made up of numerous twists, turns and subplots, which keep the pace fast and give a real sense of urgency to the story. It certainly left me guessing although slightly befuddled; this is not the kind of book where you could possibly predict what might happen at the end let alone in a chapters time, and it makes you feel as Acatl must – caught up in a whirlwind of mystery and intrigue.

Refreshingly new and different, Aliette de Bodard’s series has built up an impressively real and spectacular backdrop filled with Aztec culture, mythology and deities. The fast pace and intrigue pull you into a captivating world, where the fury and vengeance of the gods can change everything and no one can be trusted. One can only imagine what might happen next in Master of the House of Darts, but you can guarantee it will be a stunningly fast and furious ride of Aztec proportions.

Rating: 3.5*

REVIEW: CHIME

Author: Franny Billingsley
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: Bloomsbury
UK Release date: April 2011
Genre: YA
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

Before Briony's stepmother died, she made sure Briony blamed herself for all the family's hardships. Now Briony has worn her guilt for so long it's become a second skin. She often escapes to the swamp, where she tells stories to the Old Ones, the spirits who haunt the marshes. But only witches can see the Old Ones, and in her village, witches are sentenced to death. Briony lives in fear her secret will be found out, even as she believes she deserves the worst kind of punishment.

Then Eldric comes along with his golden lion eyes and mane of tawny hair. He's as natural as the sun, and treats her as if she's extraordinary. And everything starts to change. As many secrets as Briony has been holding, there are secrets even she doesn't know. (Goodreads)

I have to admit, it took me a while to get into this book. As I started reading I thought it might be set somewhere between 1400-1700s due to the stigma about being accused a witch, but the more I read the more I realised it was set at a much later time - around late 1800s to early 1900s. This disorientation made me feel a little unsettled to start, and in addition to this I found the writing style a struggle to get used to only because it is different to most reads. If I rated the book based on the first few chapters, I would probably put it very low. But reading it did get easier and I'm glad I persevered to read the whole book because I really started to like it.

Chime certainly isn't your generic YA book and Briony is by no means your run of the mill heroine. She is self-loathing and self-effacing. She openly admits to herself that she is a witch and believes she is wicked. She berates herself and feels she deserves to be punished for her wrong doings. Unlike other girls of her age and in her village, she's honest, witty and she has many a secret. She is also desperately protective of her sister, Rose who is eccentric and very special in her own way. Her quirks, such as creating little drawings full of meaning, are sweet and although she might not appear it she is very clever and perceptive. At first I mistook Rose for a spoilt and selfish girl who screamed to get her own way, but then I realised what her real character is like and I though she was very endearing.

Likewise, Eldric was a real sweetheart. He could read Briony and Rose and came to understand them and protect them. His outgoing and easy nature made him very likeable, but he also inspired a lot of change at Swampsea.

I as I got further into the book, I started enjoyed it more and more and found the plot intriguing. The blend of magic and hidden truths combined to make a compelling story. The way it was written was also very unique. Although it was written from Briony's first perspective, she often changed to third person to refer to herself. Briony's own thoughts and internal monologues were also often poetic, and oddly beautiful.

I can only describe Chime as quirky, eccentric, yet beautifully crafted.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: FATEFUL

Author: Claudia Gray
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: HarperCollins
UK Release date: March 2012
Genre: Historical Paranormal
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

Tess is embarking on the journey of her life. As maid to the Lisle family, she will be travelling with them to America on the HMS Titanic. However she secretly plans to run off and live a life free of servitude as soon as she arrives in America. But when she meets the handsome and rich Alec on board the ship, Tess becomes embroiled in a fight against dark forces. Soon she will be trapped, hunted throughout the ship and with no means of escape. Little does she know what else awaits on the journey across the Atlantic.

It seems the Titanic is having a bit of a revival at the moment, particularly so in this retelling of the tragic and ill-fated voyage. Gray has taken a unique point in time and given it a paranormal twist with the surprising element of werewolves, pushing the well-known story down a completely different path. As a sometimes-fan of historical stories, I loved the historical elements and how well it had been researched and portrayed with all the rich finery in first class and boisterous playfulness in third class.

For me, Tess was the perfect kind of heroine. She's kind, brave and knows her own mind, but isn't unnecessarily pushy or subservient. She really pushed forward the plot, coming up with plans and taking action when other characters were stuck in their own situation. I think without Tess's strength, the story wouldn't have been as good.

Although Alec was rich, handsome and protective of Tess, he wasn't necessarily your typical hero. His countenance was generally quite sad and depressed, which at some points overpowered any sense of individuality or personality. However I still liked Alec - even in the most difficult or unusual of situations he still protected her and felt a link to her. With plenty of secrets, he certainly has the element of mystery surrounding him, which is always an attraction for me!

I couldn't help but feel sorry for so many of the characters. Each of them had a reason for travelling across the Atlantic, which may or may not come to fruition. I mean, we all know what happens, but they are all oblivious to the fate that awaits them. I kept wondering who might survive and who might be swallowed by the dark cold waters (and who I actually wanted to survive!), which for me added an undercurrent of tension and suspense throughout the story. Although I never like giving spoilers, I will at least say that Gray did a great job with the inevitable ending, making it gripping, scary, powerful and yet very true and real.

Fateful is an enjoyable read, adding thrilling paranormal elements to a famously ill-fated tragedy.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: SWORD OF LIGHT

Sword of Light (Pendragon Legend)
Author: Katherine Roberts
Series: Yes, #1
UK Publisher: Templar
UK Release date: February 2012
Genre: Historical MG
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

As the secret daughter of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere, Rhianna Pendragon has been kept hidden in the faery world of Avalon since her birth. But now that Arthur has been defeated by Mordred and his army of Saxon invaders, young Rhianna must come out of hiding to rescue Excalibur, the Sword of Light, and bring her father back to life to regain the throne. In a world of men, Rhianna will need to be brave and bold to find Excalibur before the Saxons or Mordred discover who she is.

Review: Sword of Light has given an old legend a new and interesting twist. Elements of Arthurian legend including the holy grail and excalibur have been incorporated into the four lights - weapons which give ultimate power to any man that holds them all. The story also explores what happens after Arthur's reign, taking the legend further than ever before.

In a time when men fought battles and ruled kingdoms and women were vulnerable damsels, Roberts has created a spirited young female lead. Rhianna is spontaneous, fearless and quick thinking but is often led into trouble with her reckless and adventurous nature. She does however show that not all battles have to be fought with swords, and its not just the men that can stand up, defiant and fight for what is right and good.

Suitable for a young girls and boys alike the story has great characters that would make good role models, particularly young Prince Elphin who is so sweet and always there to help Rhianna. The plot is interesting and captivating with plenty of opportunities for Rhianna to get into a spot of bother and need good friends and some courage to help her win her way out.

Sword of Light is a magical and delightful read that ventures into the medieval world of King Arthur and the legend of the knights of the round table.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: INDIA DARK & GIVEAWAY

India Dark
Author: Kirsty Murray
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: Templar
UK Release date: 5th January 2012
Genre: Historical
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

It was 1909 when Posey Swift left Australian shores to tour America with the Lilliputian troupe, filled with dreams of singing and dancing her way across the country. But as funds run low and the Lilliputian group detours across South East Asia, the children find themselves fighting against the company owner Mr Arthur. How far will the children go to protect their rights, their freedom and get back home?

Review: Based on a true story, India Dark is set in a time when travel to different countries was limited to the rich or the British Empire army, and encounters with people of different cultures and heritages was rare. For the children in the Lilliputian dance and musical theatre troupe, their travels to South-East Asia and India open their eyes to different worlds, and the narrative has been written to encapsulate this and ensnare the reader’s senses and bring alive a land of foreign and beautiful wonders. The harsh treatment of the children did impinge on my enjoyment of the country’s wonders but it made me understand why many of the children began to hate certain parts of India, associating them with maltreatment and negative experiences.

The story is told from two perspectives: Posey Swift, a young and naive girl of 13 who is making her first journey with the Lilliputians, and 15 year old Tilly Sweetrick, who is much more world-wise and on her second tour. I liked Tilly because she was transparent in what she wanted, and saw people for what they really were, but she verged on manipulative and harsh. On the other hand, Posey was just so sweet and innocent, but didn’t realise what was going on around her or how her behaviour might affect others. Although it could be a little confusing trying to keep up with whose narrative I was reading, I think the story benefited hugely from the dual perspective. The fact that the two girls had different experiences of the tour and were completely different characters, helped me see what happened from different viewpoints and sympathise with different characters.

Like Posey, I fell for Charlie, as his interest in magic and the Indian fakirs (magicians) was really exciting. Reading about the illusions with mango trees growing on stage felt so magical, and I could see why he was entranced by the mysterious of India. He was also able to stay out of the fights and seemed wise beyond his years. The fact that he would dress like the locals and sneak out to see the real India was very courageous and rebellious (for a boy of 13), and I really admired that in him.

Starting in the courtroom, the story jumps back to before the children set off on their long journey, and follows them as things go from bad to worse. The plot was filled with lies, deception, excitement, suspense, drama, upsets and fighting, and throughout there was an underlying feeling of dread at what might happen to the children. Although the story slowed towards the end, I still wanted to know what happened to the cruel Mr Arthur and how the children were affected by their experiences in the troupe. The story most certainly touches on the children's loss of innocence and it feels such a shame and a crime, that the amazing adventure for the children turns so sour.

This captivating historical story will take you back to a different era and completely immerse you in the travels and troubles that happen on tour. Kirsty Murray has done a great job bringing the childrens' tale to life!

Rating: 4*

GIVEAWAY!!

Templar Publishing are kindly allowing me to give a brand spanking new copy of India Dark away! All you have to do is fill out the very simple form below :)

Rules:

This giveaway is for UK entrants only.

Winners will be picked using random.org, contacted by email and have 48 hours to get back to me or a new winner will be chosen.

I can't be held responsible for items lost/damaged in the mail.

Giveaway ends 22nd January 2012 (UK time).

One entry per person.

You don't need to be a follower, but it's always appreciated :)

To enter:

Fill out THE FORM below!

REVIEW: TWO MOON PRINCESS

Two Moon Princess

Author: Carmen Ferreiro-Esteban

Series: No, standalone

Publisher: Tanglewood Press

Release date: June 2010

Genre: historical fiction and contemporary

Read via NetGalley

Princess Andrea has never felt like she fitted in, and as her hopes of becoming a Knight are dashed she feels even more isolated in her medieval world. When she finds a doorway to another world, our modern California, she finally feels at home. But her new life might not be possible when she accidentally returns to her own world with someone else in tow, causing family truths to come to the surface and war to breakout. 

Review: At first I wasn’t sure how well the story would work, trying to cross from fantasy/historical fiction into contemporary, particularly as Andrea’s narrative and descriptions was very true to her upbringing in a historical setting. But I was pleasantly surprised and thought that Ferreiro-Esteban did a great job of seamlessly combining the two. When Andrea enters our world as we know it, her surprise and reaction to modern contraptions was natural but not overdone, and I enjoyed her reaction to the car engine starting up! The further I got into the book, I more and more I enjoyed it. By the time Andrea had saved the enemy king and was looking after him, I couldn’t put the book down. Their love-hate relationship was so charged and intense even though they never got together physically, but it was believable at the same time.

Two Moon Princess was full of action, love, revenge and rejection. It featured fighting and combat scenes which I enjoyed without being too heavy and bogging the plot down in detail. Some areas of the plot were easy to guess, but at other times I was left trying to keep up with the fast pace and Andrea’s understanding of the opposing motives and behaviours of other characters.

Despite having so many characters, I thought the character development was done really well. Each had their own distinct personality and motives and made me feel either admiration, annoyance or hatred. Andrea was a great protagonist – feeling inferior to her sisters as well as the Knights she wants to be, she berates herself for her lack of strength and courage when rescuing Don Julian, but I can’t imagine any of her sisters being able to do the things she did. She was strong and courageous, but at the same time unsure and vulnerable. Despite their various flaws, all of her sisters (and all of the women in the story) make their own choices and don't bow down to convention or the will of the men in their lives - for example, Princess Sabela gives up the crown for love, which in my book takes guts.

And then there was the enemy king, Don Julian. Cruel, gruff and fierce, he ruled his kingdom with power and respect and attacked his enemies without mercy. As his role as king was peeled back and I saw the hardships he had been through I really started to like him. The fact that he wasn’t your archetypical stunningly handsome hero or male protagonist, but was more complex and mysterious, made him so much more interesting.

Seamlessly blending historical and contemporary fiction, Two Moon Princess creates a superb and fast paced tale of a young girl trying to find her place in one world, only that discover that she might be destined for another.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: VELVET

Velvet

Author: Mary Hooper
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: Bloomsbury
UK Release date: September 2011
Genre: Historical YA
Kindly given by the publisher for an honest review

Saved from a life of hardship as a laundry girl in the early 1900's, Velvet is indebted to medium Madame Savoya. As Velvet learns that communing with spirits isn't always easy, she must decide whether she can trust the woman that she owes so much.

Review: Once again Mary Hooper manages to bring the Victorian period to life with such ease, from the luxury of carriages and jewels, to how Victorians spent their Christmas day, and the hardships of living from hand-to-mouth. So many details and historical facts are packed into the story making it feel so authentic and real.

We also get to see what the life of a medium was like in the height of spiritualism. Whilst more and more people were coming around to the idea that mediums were often fraudulently tricking grieving widows out of their money, there were still many ardent believers that they could commune with the other side. To keep their wealthy clients and fight off any suspicions, mediums had to be increasingly clever about the way they worked and the level of communing they performed. I wondered what parlour tricks Madame might be using, and would have liked to have learnt in more detail of the methods mediums used to 'prove' they were really in the presence of the deceased.

Madame Savoya's lifestyle is one of luxury and decadence. Like Velvet I couldn't help but be entranced by her charisma, pretty clothes, her royal Russian ancestry and apparent skill as a medium. But knowing what we know now about mediums, I often thought Velvet was naive and unquestioning of her new life. Considering she knew of tricks used by mediums and was warned by others, Velvet still lived in ignorance. Perhaps because she felt so indebted to Madame, and the alternative would be living back in poverty, I can understand why Velvet didn't want to think too much on the matter.

Also creeping into the story was baby-farms. A sad and horrific part of our history, baby-farms were unlicensed 'nannies' with whom young, poor women out of wedlock left their babes. To save money however these children were drugged and starved or even drowned. The fact that the young mothers were too ashamed to report the death of their children, meant that the farms continued to exist. The realities of these harsh times are apparent in the story, and what I like is that you learn so much about the time period, both good and bad, that history becomes interesting.

Velvet is another mysterious and fabulous historical YA from Mary Hooper who has fast become a top author in the genre.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: RED RIDING HOOD

As I saw a few trailers for this film on other bloggers' sites, I thought I would do a mini review of this enchanting werewolf film.

Red Riding Hood
Director: Catherine Hardwicke
Written by: David Johnson
UK Cinematic release date: April 2011

Young Valerie falls for poor orphaned woodcutter Peter, much to the consternation of her family who want her to marry blacksmith Henry. But will anyone survive when a wolf starts attacking the village?

Sharing a director and Vancouver setting with the Twilight films, Red Riding Hood has a similar feel and aesthetic quality to the aforementioned vampire films. The medieval village, swathed in snow and surrounded by woods and mountains, is absolutely stunning and a perfect backdrop to this creepy love story.

And what love story would be complete without a love triangle? Since childhood Valerie has been in love with bad-boy woodcutter Peter, however she is now betrothed to Henry. I could certainly see why she would be attracted to the dark and wild Peter, but I have to admit I warmed to the thoughtful Henry.

Gary Oldman's character, Solomon, enters the village in imposing style offering to rid them of their wolf. Whilst his character was ambiguous at first - is he a good guy come to rescue the villagers and protect his children or a man just out for revenge at the cost of everyone else? - his acting as always was impeccable. In fact I couldn't fault the acting at all throughout the film.

As the film plot is very loosely based on the Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale, I can see how some would be annoyed by the slant of the film, deviating from the original story by featuring a werewolf who is able to turn those it bites into wolves during the blood-red moon. I figure if you watch the film not expecting the fairy tale then you shouldn't be disappointed.

Who this werewolf is, is a big mystery throughout the film (thanks to all the actors wearing brown contact lenses or having brown eyes).

 Normally I can guess straight away who is the murderer or mysterious character, but I had absolutely no clue in this film until it was revealed at the end. This one will really keep you guessing!

Rating: 4*

If you haven't yet seen the film, here's a sneaky peek at the trailer...

REVIEW: WEST OF THE MOON

West of the Moon
Author: Katherine Langrish
UK Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books
UK Release date: March 2011
Genre: Historical fantasy

West of the Moon is an abridged version of three separate books, all following young Norse boy Peer Ulfsson after the death of his father, a revered wood craftsman. In the first story Peer is take away by his two uncles Baldur and Grim who set him straight to work in their mill at Trollfell. With only his dog Loki as a companion Peer is lonely and dejected, but soon he makes friends with young and wild farm girl, Hilde. When the uncles take Hilde’s younger twin siblings as a gift for the troll king, Peer and Hilde try to rescue the twins by entering the trolls’ underground lair.
In the second story, with his uncles gone, Peer leaves the mill to live with Hilde and her family and work on their farm. When Peer discovers the abandoned mill is working at night, he tries to find out who is using the mill and why. During his investigations he has to face Granny Greenteeth, a scary water witch who is looking to steal a child for her own.
In the third story, the arrival of a new long ship tempts Hilde and Peer to travel to Vinland to explore the unchartered country. They soon realise that they have set sail with a crew of outlaws and won’t be returning home for many years. Afraid of their Captain and his wild son Harold, Hilde and Peer struggle to come to terms with their new home in Vinland, the threat of natives and mythical creatures, all whilst trying to find a way home.

Review: The setting for the three stories is a Viking Age settlement several hundred years ago, when America was still unchartered territory and men still went-a-viking. Encompassed into the story are Norse legends and myths, including trolls, water witches and the nithing – a shy but friendly house elf that cleans and tidies for a bowl of gruel. When young Peer and Hilde travel to Vinland, they encounter ‘skraelings’, better known as Native American Indians, as well as other mythical creatures including Yetis. This combination of historical fact and mythology adds both reality and magic to Katherine Langrish’s beautifully crafted world.

Admittedly I was hesitant about what might happen in the story when I realized that Vinland was on the verge of being explored and how the skraelings might be treated. To my great relief, the story handled the invasion of Vikings in a balanced but realistic way, looking at a multitude of points of view from the bully Harold who viciously kills innocent skraeling, to the curious and superstitious natives.

Although the plotline is fairly simple, there is intrigue, peril and a few twists and along the way. A sense of darkness and impending danger surfaces in each of the stories, when Peer and Hilde enter the trolls’ underground lair and later when they discover they are stranded with a pirate crew and unpredictable captain. With the threat of mythical creatures lurking all around, this helps carry the stories along and keep them flowing at a steady pace.

The stories are set around Peer and Hilde, and written in a dual narrative. At first Peer is very much a victim – when his father dies from an infected wound he is taken in by uncles who he’s never met before and put straight to work. You can’t help but sympathise with the horrible circumstances he lives in and the cruel way he is treated. Peer is often a reluctant hero, being brave to impress the free spirited Hilde. In the third story, he undergoes a slow but steady transition from boy into young man, eventually standing up for himself against the bully. It is these little flaws and his transformation that makes Peer believable, likeable, and worthy of fighting for Hilde’s love and attention.
Unlike Peer, Hilde is a headstrong young girl not afraid to go into the trolls’ underground lair to rescue her family or to travel to Vinland, however it is this stubborn and impetuous nature that leads her and Peer into trouble. As we see their developing relationship from both perspectives, you can’t help but feel for Peer who has to compete for Hilde’s attention and fight against her perception of him as a brother.

The nithing, a friendly house elf, is my favourite character and reminds me very much of Dobby the house elf from Harry Potter. Hiding in the rafters of the house and coming out only at night, he tidies and cleans in exchange for gruel and butter. Treated badly by the uncles, the nithing gets on well with Peer as well as Hilde and her family, and moves to their farm to hide in their roof and help clean. His role expands with each book and in the third story he plays a part in helping tackle the bully Harold. His character brings humour to the stories, taking on new names such as ‘nithing the sea farer’ when Peer tells him he is the first nithing to travel by boat.

West of the Moon blends Viking history and mythology, drawing you into a captivatingly different setting for a fantasy story. A refreshing read, Katherine Langrish is certainly an author to keep an eye on!

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: FALLEN GRACE

Fallen Grace
Author: Mary Hooper
Series: No, standalone
UK Publisher: Bloomsbury
UK release date: June 2011
Genre: Historical fiction
Kindly sent by the publisher for an honest review

Orphaned sisters Lily and Grace struggle to survive in Victorian London, selling cress to keep a roof over their heads. At only 16, Grace is a fallen woman and must find a way to bury her stillborn child. In doing so she finds herself crossing paths with the Unwins, unscrupulous funeral directors who will not only save her from the workhouse but also try to rob her of much more.

Review: From the very start I was drawn into Grace’s world and her struggle to care for herself and her sister. Despite all the hardships and blows she suffers, Grace carries on and perseveres. Vulnerable, determined and plucky she shows a remarkable strength of character, and is one of the few characters I’ve come across that really tugs on my heartstrings. Told primarily from her perspective, Fallen Grace is a compelling story about this sweet young girl.

With a child’s mind, her sister Lily tries desperately hard to do the best, but is taken advantage of at every corner. As pawnshops and con artists trick her out of money for their own benefit, it made me think how hard it must have been to live in such times if you weren’t savvy and constantly vigilant.

The portrayal of the Unwin family and their funeral business is dark, sinister and slightly macabre. Emotionally blackmailing grieving families into paying beyond their means for a fancy funeral, they scam and scheme money from anyone they can. When Grace turns to them for help you instantly realise that they are truly manipulative and wicked people.

Victorian London is wonderfully portrayed in all its filth and finery. Little snippets at the start of each chapter from Dickens and newspaper adverts help build a picture of the splendor the rich live in as well as typical Victorian life and going-ons. There is a stark contrast between those living in poverty with no shoes on their feet and searching the streets for litter and those from the upper classes riding through Hyde Park in carriages and fine clothes. Rather than the romantic view of the rich, Fallen Grace looks at both sides and gives a very realistic and captivating perspective of daily life.

Mary Hooper obviously did a lot of background research into the historical element as they were so many facets of London and Victorian life that I never even knew about such as the different mourning stages and the steam train taking coffins to a cemetery outside the city. These details really help bring the story alive by adding authenticity and make me imagine what piece of history I could be walking past everyday as I walk the streets of London.

A delightfully dark and gripping read full of Victorian London slums and splendor, and the plight of Fallen Grace as she fights for what is rightfully hers.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
Author: Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith
Series: Yes, #1
UK Publisher: Quirk Books
UK release date: April 2009
Genre: Zombie, Historical fiction
Kindly sent by the publisher for an honest review

In order to fight the blight of zombies plaguing 19th century England, the Bennet sisters have been trained in the deadly arts of fighting unmentionables. However all their mother can think of is seeing her daughters married off to rich and handsome men. Whether Elizabeth will find the haughty Mr Darcy a suitable prospect when she has set her heart to killing zombies is another matter.

Review: Seth Grahame-Smith took on the hard task of reworking a well-known classic fiction by Jane Austen and adding in zombies. Imagine the Bennett sisters in their ball gowns slaying zombies. I can imagine many a Jane Austen fan might blanch at the thought, but oddly enough it works. To start it is a little difficult to adjust to changes and additions to the story but as you get further into the story it takes on a life of its own.

I was surprised by how much of the original text was kept and that the plot was very much the same, however adapted as it is, it’s amazing to see how well the zombie element fits into the original plot. It didn’t distract from the story of the Elizabeth and Mr Darcy but very much added another layer to it. Soldiers are employed to wipe out unmentionables, training in the deadly arts is another way for higher society to condescend those below them, and the plague itself can be seen as a metaphor in the case of Charlotte who is inflicted during her marriage to Mr Collins.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies takes the humour, wit and irony that Jane Austen infused into her characters and kicks it up a notch. There are some real humorous and comic moments that will have you smiling in twisted glee. Indeed Elizabeth is sassier, cheekier and even more brazen, but completely in keeping with her true character.

I also can’t help but think that Seth Grahame-Smith gave some characters their just deserts, and who could blame him. His cutthroat approach to dealing with malevolent characters certainly brings them down a peg and you can’t help but smile and agree.

Having studied the book in school and appreciated Jane Austen’s wit and irony, I can see how well the zombie element adds to this. But I can easily imagine that those new to the story entirely may find zombies and 19th century social satire a rather odd mix especially when faced with the original language and focus on women marrying and social standing.

Humorous, romantic and gruesome, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies takes the best of the original story and gives it an entertaining zombie injection.

Rating: 4*

REVIEW: SERVANT OF THE UNDERWORLD

Servant of the Underworld (Obsidian and Blood #1)

Author: Aliette de Bodard

UK Publisher: Angry Robot

UK Release date: January 2010

Genre: Historical fantasy

"I brought the tip of the knife in contact with my own hand, and carefully drew the shape of a human skull. As I did so, I sang a litany to my patron Mictlantecuhtli, God of the Dead.”

When Priestess Eleuia goes missing under supernatural circumstances, Acatl is charged with the task of solving the mystery of her disappearance. Sensing traces of magic in her blood-soaked room, it appears that a nahual spirit was summoned to kill her. The search begins by hunting the jaguar beast and potential suspects born on a Jaguar day. However Acatl soon learns that his estranged brother, Neutemoc, is the prime suspect after being found in the Priestess's room covered in her blood. Believing his brother to be innocent, Acatl must find the Priestess before his brother is executed for her murder.

To aid the investigation Ceyaxochitl sends an eager young boy, Teomitl to run tasks. Surrounded in protective spells, there is more to the warrior in training than meets the eye, but he is keen to prove himself by helping Acatl. Although reluctant to take him on, Acatl soon realises that the boy is more important to the unfolding events than first thought.

Review: Whilst the plot is complex due to the number of gods and different lands that Acatl must journey to, it is well paced with Acatl and Teomitl running from place to place and danger to danger. With plenty of mystery, gripping plot turns and natural world-building, the story keeps you enthralled right through to the end.

Although necessary to the plot, the number of characters in the book is huge especially when considering all the different gods. And in keeping with the period, traditional Aztec names are used, making it difficult to keep track of exactly who is who.

Acatl’s character is well developed and even though he is self-effacing, he is a likeable character. We learn that his relationship with his late parents was fraught with difficulties, seeing him as cowardly for going into priesthood and not becoming a warrior like his brother. Resentful and unappreciative of his rise to the position of High Priest, Acatl neglected many of his roles. Since his previous apprentice died trying to perform summoning magic, Acatl has since been reluctant to train anyone else. However, life-threatening events and the exuberant Teomitl force him to look again at his role as High Priest and face his own feelings of inadequacy and jealousy.

Servant of the Underworld is not only de Bodard's debut novel, but was also impressively written in English, her second language. Steeped in Aztec mythology and culture, it’s refreshing to read a story that is set in a time so rarely used as a fictional setting. With its complex plot, interesting cast of characters and magical mystery, Servant of the Underworld makes a great first installment to the Obsidian and Blood series. 

Rating: 4*


You can find the full review on Fantasy Faction.