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Airborne Saga #1
Airborne
Avery knew she had a knack for attracting trouble, but even she is shocked when a six-foot-something harpie shows up on her doorstep. Coping with the existence of a mythological race? Okay. Unwittingly finding herself in the middle of a vicious harpie conflict? A little less okay. Having to rely on an arrogant harpie boy who gets under her skin? Now that is something Avery isn't sure she can handle.
318 pages, Paperback
First published March 28, 2011
22 people are currently reading
5440 people want to read
About the author
Constance Sharper
5 books162 followersConstance Sharper juggles following her writing passion with completing her doctorate degree. She's been a lover of urban fantasy and young adult books, and published The Airborne Saga as her first series. She continues to write multiple books in the same and similar genres. She currently lives with her beagle and wishes a Starbucks would open up nearby.
Details of her whereabouts are best found at her site http://www.constancesharper.com or by following her twitter @CSibline.
Personal note:
I wish I could say I was on Goodreads as much as I should be, but I rarely am these days. So anyone who is trying to contact me, if you don't get a response from my Goodreads account, PLEASE email me! I don't ignore people, but I probably haven't checked my goodreads inbox!
As for questions in regards to book reviewers:
Unfortunately at this time I am unable to give out any paperback copies of my books to reviewers!
As for other questions about the books, most answers can be found on my website! Check it out before contacting me.
And be prepared. The harpie invasion is coming!
Details of her whereabouts are best found at her site http://www.constancesharper.com or by following her twitter @CSibline.
Personal note:
I wish I could say I was on Goodreads as much as I should be, but I rarely am these days. So anyone who is trying to contact me, if you don't get a response from my Goodreads account, PLEASE email me! I don't ignore people, but I probably haven't checked my goodreads inbox!
As for questions in regards to book reviewers:
Unfortunately at this time I am unable to give out any paperback copies of my books to reviewers!
As for other questions about the books, most answers can be found on my website! Check it out before contacting me.
And be prepared. The harpie invasion is coming!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
May 15, 2012
I'm guessing this is a self-published novel. The writing was horribly awkward and forced, and barely a (Kindle) page went by without a serious editing error (e.g. past instead of passed, ceased instead of seized, not to mention the sense that the author lacks even a basic understanding of when to use a comma). Overall, it read like something a 7th grader would write (and get a B- on, due to all the grammar and punctuation errors).
The only reason I gave it 2 stars instead of 1 is that the story is somewhat interesting, particularly for a YA audience. If this story had been written by someone who could write (or, as the author might say, "right"), it might have been quite good.
The only reason I gave it 2 stars instead of 1 is that the story is somewhat interesting, particularly for a YA audience. If this story had been written by someone who could write (or, as the author might say, "right"), it might have been quite good.
August 16, 2017
2.5 stars
Interested in more of my reviews? Visit my blog!
Storyline
Avery is on summer break visiting her brother in California when she discovers a mysterious shell on the beach. As she picks it up she’s shocked by a sudden pain and when she drops it the shell shatters into dust. Where the shell touched her hand a dark bruise takes its place and starts to spread. Once she returns to boarding school, a harpie named Mason shows up on her doorstep demanding she return the shell. She eventually shows him her bruise with explanation on how she got it after picking up this mysterious shell and Mason explains to her that it was a shell that contained extremely strong magic and it appears to have been absorbed by her. When additional harpies come after her in order to get the shell, she realizes that not all of them are going to ask nicely. And once they find out that the magic is now inside her they’ll stop at nothing to kill her to prevent the magic from being used.
Not So Fab
Highly original and well written, I actually really enjoyed most of this story. The story of course centers around Avery and Mason but naturally Mason is engaged. The love triangle wasn’t overly obnoxious but was enough to elicit a few eye-rolls.
When Avery is first introduced to this new part of her world that she never knew existed she immediately disregards it as bunk and refuses to accept it. Understandable. But once she begins to accept things it happens immediately and lacked any form of step-by-step development. Lacked in authenticity in my opinion.
The writing was as I said well written but considering I had 2nd edition copy I would have expected less grammatical errors. It wasn’t enough to truly impact the writing of the story but it was enough to become a bit of an eyesore. I understand that this is an Indie/self-published novel but I would’ve hoped for a story that didn’t appear to have skipped any sort of editing process.
Final Thoughts
I’m not invested enough to continue this particular series but the writing style was enough for me to consider picking up future books by this author; she definitely showed promise. Recommended for YA fantasy lovers and anyone looking for a new, original take on the paranormal world.
Interested in more of my reviews? Visit my blog!
Storyline
Avery is on summer break visiting her brother in California when she discovers a mysterious shell on the beach. As she picks it up she’s shocked by a sudden pain and when she drops it the shell shatters into dust. Where the shell touched her hand a dark bruise takes its place and starts to spread. Once she returns to boarding school, a harpie named Mason shows up on her doorstep demanding she return the shell. She eventually shows him her bruise with explanation on how she got it after picking up this mysterious shell and Mason explains to her that it was a shell that contained extremely strong magic and it appears to have been absorbed by her. When additional harpies come after her in order to get the shell, she realizes that not all of them are going to ask nicely. And once they find out that the magic is now inside her they’ll stop at nothing to kill her to prevent the magic from being used.
Not So Fab
Highly original and well written, I actually really enjoyed most of this story. The story of course centers around Avery and Mason but naturally Mason is engaged. The love triangle wasn’t overly obnoxious but was enough to elicit a few eye-rolls.
When Avery is first introduced to this new part of her world that she never knew existed she immediately disregards it as bunk and refuses to accept it. Understandable. But once she begins to accept things it happens immediately and lacked any form of step-by-step development. Lacked in authenticity in my opinion.
The writing was as I said well written but considering I had 2nd edition copy I would have expected less grammatical errors. It wasn’t enough to truly impact the writing of the story but it was enough to become a bit of an eyesore. I understand that this is an Indie/self-published novel but I would’ve hoped for a story that didn’t appear to have skipped any sort of editing process.
Final Thoughts
I’m not invested enough to continue this particular series but the writing style was enough for me to consider picking up future books by this author; she definitely showed promise. Recommended for YA fantasy lovers and anyone looking for a new, original take on the paranormal world.
June 4, 2011
Lots of typos and strange phrasing.
The writing style was disruptive and the narrative confusing.I think I re-read the first part 5 times before I got a hang of it.
I also questioned the main characters decision to take a walk late at night with a complete stranger. And after he attacks her she remains surprisingly unaffected and accepting of all the strange things hes telling her about magic and harpies :/
I also wished the naming of the harpies had been a bit more imaginative (Mason,Jericho,Eve,Rafale) I thought harpies originated in greek myth?
I recognized the difficulty of having a friend date someone you dislike (though her friend didnt seem to have self-respect,letting her crush hit on her best friend while she was in the same room)So could sympathize with that. But at best the characters came across as flat.
The concept of harpies was interesting though,too bad the author failed in execution. I suggest getting an editor and make the plotting more tight.
The writing style was disruptive and the narrative confusing.I think I re-read the first part 5 times before I got a hang of it.
I also questioned the main characters decision to take a walk late at night with a complete stranger. And after he attacks her she remains surprisingly unaffected and accepting of all the strange things hes telling her about magic and harpies :/
I also wished the naming of the harpies had been a bit more imaginative (Mason,Jericho,Eve,Rafale) I thought harpies originated in greek myth?
I recognized the difficulty of having a friend date someone you dislike (though her friend didnt seem to have self-respect,letting her crush hit on her best friend while she was in the same room)So could sympathize with that. But at best the characters came across as flat.
The concept of harpies was interesting though,too bad the author failed in execution. I suggest getting an editor and make the plotting more tight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2011
Rating: 1.5 stars
I made it to page 78 (in the Nook edition, which has 158 pages) before I honestly couldn't take it any more.
It wasn't as though it bad. Well, it was bad, just not, you know, Evermore bad *shudder*. It was just sooooooo draining. How? I don't know. It wasn't slow or anything... honestly this book just confuses me.
You know what? I think I'll use this review to sort out my bambozzled mind. And to do that, I must go back to were it all began...
The begining. Or as I like to call it, page 1.
This book is about Avery Something-or-other, who after cutting herself on a shell at the beach one day, finds herself embroiled (haha I love that word! It makes me think of steak.) in the world of harpies. And... Annnnnnndddddddd... that's all I got. Do you have anything to add Isaak? No? Okay then. Moving on.
I have searched my mind long and hard. And honestly? I can't remember the plot of this book for the life of me. The worst part? I'm not a forgetfull person. I mean, not in an creative, imagative, not at all related to real life sorta way. Yeah, I'll forget were I put my boots or what I ate for breakfast, but music lyrics and tempos, obscure facts, ( for instant did you know that snails and worms are genderless?), movie quotes.
And books.
So the fact that I can't remember this book is bad. Like really bad.
But since I'm to lazy to go get the book and refresh myself on the facts, I'll justrant about review the parts I remember.
One thing I remember: the love triangle.
Oh yes, I remember the love triangle.
And I hated it.
But, of course, I hate all love triangles . But this one...
well it just extra special.
Well, to give props where they are due, most authors have two guys fighting over the mainchica character. In this one the main character and the evil blonde harpy are fighting over the love interest, Mason. (By the way that name? Mason? Is awesome!)
But it's not configueration of the triangle that bothers me.
It's how the triangle came to be that ticks me off.
You see Mason is sent to retrieve Avery for some reason or other.
Anyway, the first time they meet she hates him (again, the reasons escapes me). Well she ends leaving with him, and he gets hurt or something. And she starts to think "well maybe he isn't evil incarnate". They would have traveled down the path to a causal friendship if it wasn't for Mason. You see he starts to lay on the charm, starts flirting with Avery-girl.
But thats not what's so unforgivible. If he was honestly attracted to her, single, and tried to get her to like him in return, then I would have gone with it, and probably would have finished this book.
But he's not.
Single that is.
You see Mason is engaged. To be married, that is.
And here he is, flirting up a storm with Avery.
If it had been an arraged marrige, than I could have dug that.
But it's not. Not by a long shot.
I forget the specifects (obviously), but I pretty sue that their relationship was forbidded, that he killed some dude cause he was standing in the way. That he was EXILED for her! And then he just randomly starts to flirt with a girl he barely knows?!
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA NO sorry but no.
I honestly doubt that would happen. No, just no.
But Emilee, you say, what love at first sight?
Well, my lovely reader, you want to hears a secret?
Love, actual LOVE, NOT lust, or infatuation, but real LOVE, does not happen "at first sight". Sure there can be attraction, but real love? Me no thinks so.
If you honestly love someone don't you love them for who they are, NOT what they look like?
And you can't know who someone is by just looking at them, you have to, you know, talk to them! You have to get to know them!
And that right there is my problem with the love triangle in this book (and YA PNR books in general).
And so concludes my rant of the love triangle.
But even with out this love triangle, I don't know I just found this book ... boring. After all, I can't remember this book for a reason.
Actually there is one thing I remember. A line really.
"She peered across the long referance table to where the Emo Librarian dabbled on the computer. Headphones wrapped over his ears..."
That's right an emo librarian...
Dude that is sooooooooooooo AWESOME! I wish I knew an emo librarian!
Honestly, I think this guy should have been named Mason, and he should have been the MC of the book. I would have loved it if the book had been about him.
But, alas, it wasn't.
Le Sigh.
I made it to page 78 (in the Nook edition, which has 158 pages) before I honestly couldn't take it any more.
It wasn't as though it bad. Well, it was bad, just not, you know, Evermore bad *shudder*. It was just sooooooo draining. How? I don't know. It wasn't slow or anything... honestly this book just confuses me.
You know what? I think I'll use this review to sort out my bambozzled mind. And to do that, I must go back to were it all began...
The begining. Or as I like to call it, page 1.
This book is about Avery Something-or-other, who after cutting herself on a shell at the beach one day, finds herself embroiled (haha I love that word! It makes me think of steak.) in the world of harpies. And... Annnnnnndddddddd... that's all I got. Do you have anything to add Isaak? No? Okay then. Moving on.
I have searched my mind long and hard. And honestly? I can't remember the plot of this book for the life of me. The worst part? I'm not a forgetfull person. I mean, not in an creative, imagative, not at all related to real life sorta way. Yeah, I'll forget were I put my boots or what I ate for breakfast, but music lyrics and tempos, obscure facts, ( for instant did you know that snails and worms are genderless?), movie quotes.
And books.
So the fact that I can't remember this book is bad. Like really bad.
But since I'm to lazy to go get the book and refresh myself on the facts, I'll just
One thing I remember: the love triangle.
Oh yes, I remember the love triangle.
And I hated it.
But, of course, I hate all love triangles . But this one...
well it just extra special.
Well, to give props where they are due, most authors have two guys fighting over the main
But it's not configueration of the triangle that bothers me.
It's how the triangle came to be that ticks me off.
You see Mason is sent to retrieve Avery for some reason or other.
Anyway, the first time they meet she hates him (again, the reasons escapes me). Well she ends leaving with him, and he gets hurt or something. And she starts to think "well maybe he isn't evil incarnate". They would have traveled down the path to a causal friendship if it wasn't for Mason. You see he starts to lay on the charm, starts flirting with Avery-girl.
But thats not what's so unforgivible. If he was honestly attracted to her, single, and tried to get her to like him in return, then I would have gone with it, and probably would have finished this book.
But he's not.
Single that is.
You see Mason is engaged. To be married, that is.
And here he is, flirting up a storm with Avery.
If it had been an arraged marrige, than I could have dug that.
But it's not. Not by a long shot.
I forget the specifects (obviously), but I pretty sue that their relationship was forbidded, that he killed some dude cause he was standing in the way. That he was EXILED for her! And then he just randomly starts to flirt with a girl he barely knows?!
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA NO sorry but no.
I honestly doubt that would happen. No, just no.
But Emilee, you say, what love at first sight?
Well, my lovely reader, you want to hears a secret?
Love, actual LOVE, NOT lust, or infatuation, but real LOVE, does not happen "at first sight". Sure there can be attraction, but real love? Me no thinks so.
If you honestly love someone don't you love them for who they are, NOT what they look like?
And you can't know who someone is by just looking at them, you have to, you know, talk to them! You have to get to know them!
And that right there is my problem with the love triangle in this book (and YA PNR books in general).
And so concludes my rant of the love triangle.
But even with out this love triangle, I don't know I just found this book ... boring. After all, I can't remember this book for a reason.
Actually there is one thing I remember. A line really.
"She peered across the long referance table to where the Emo Librarian dabbled on the computer. Headphones wrapped over his ears..."
That's right an emo librarian...
Dude that is sooooooooooooo AWESOME! I wish I knew an emo librarian!
Honestly, I think this guy should have been named Mason, and he should have been the MC of the book. I would have loved it if the book had been about him.
But, alas, it wasn't.
Le Sigh.
July 19, 2011
Airborne was a book of it's very own. I really haven't read anything really like it. I have seen great reviews on said book, however, it did nothing for me. This was a book that won't leave you with a lasting impression or one that lingers in your thoughts weeks down the road.
Positives:
*The cover is beautiful
Negatives:
*Harpies (unique) but I have a hard time finding a bird-like man very sexy...sorry. Seriously! Those talon like fingers!!! I'd run and hide!!
*I am really over the whole Ithinkilikehimbutidontknowifhewouldeverlikeme thing. O-V-E-R I-T
Other than that, the writting flowed well and the action kept your attention. I realy, really wanted to like this book but it fell short for me.
Positives:
*The cover is beautiful
Negatives:
*Harpies (unique) but I have a hard time finding a bird-like man very sexy...sorry. Seriously! Those talon like fingers!!! I'd run and hide!!
*I am really over the whole Ithinkilikehimbutidontknowifhewouldeverlikeme thing. O-V-E-R I-T
Other than that, the writting flowed well and the action kept your attention. I realy, really wanted to like this book but it fell short for me.
January 15, 2012
I honestly fell in love with this book. I love the characters and the plot. I cant pick a favorite character but I can say I will be buying the sequel when ever it comes out. I wish i could give more than a 5 star rating. I will be honest I just bought this book because it was only 1.99 but it was worth 10 dollars if you asked me. I love this book.
May 30, 2012
I have fallen head over heels for this series! I have had both Airborne and Grounded on my Nook since January and never got around to having time to get into both of them and this weekend was a perfect opportunity! And, I would like to add, I am almost GLAD I waited, because as soon as I finished book one I had to jump right into book two, so it’s good that I waited until I could stay up for hours on end to finish!
Airborne follows Avery returning to her school in Alaska after a summer with her brother in California. Upon her return to Mayweather Academy for her senior year, and within the first PAGE I was hooked! I love openings to books that get you right away and I mean get you like hook, line and line and line!
The overall concept for this book revolves around harpies, which in all my Mythological knowledge, I lacked any understanding of. This turned out to not really matter as my post reading research has turned up with stuff that would have utterly confused me if I had known prior to starting. Let’s just say that Constance Sharper’s version of the harpie world is much better! It was such a creative, distinctly original concept and contributed greatly to my new found love for this series. I will let you know though, that the harpy are the only Mythological concept within this book, there is no venture into other concepts, so don’t go into reading thinking you will be immersed in a Mythology setting, cause it’s not.
I will warn you that Constance Sharper is a self-published author, so editing could use some improvement, but things like that I can look past while reading, because to me, it’s not about grammar and punctuation, it’s about the story. Yes, yes I understand that we are reading works of writing, but when you pick up self-published titles you have to have an equal understanding of forfeiting editing for knock out finds, and this is definitely a knock out!
Best thing overall, ACTION ACTION ACTION. It didn’t stop, there were no lolls in chapters where you are just reading dialog or character thought that drags on. The story keeps going and never lets you sit back in your seat to take a breather. I think part of this stems from excellent character development. To me a huge contributing factor in staying hooked in a book is making sure that each character is fully vested in their initial mannerisms. Now, this doesn’t mean that characters can’t grow as the book and/or series progresses, but it means that you can’t let the character forget their roots; the end of the book needs to reflect characters who may have grown emotionally, but not CHANGE the way they act and talk. Constance Sharper was 100% in line with her characters and never faltered in remembering who they were and how they act. Sharper also managed to do something with the main characters that I have never experienced before. She created a female-lead that meets my high expectations, she created a male-lead-love interest that I never fell for, but still love, and a female-2nd-lead (BF to the lead) that I love to hate – sounds interesting, right? That’s because it is and it is one of the things I fell in love with most with this book.
Quick overview of main characters:
Fast pace, action, romance, harpies, suspense, kick-ass girl heroine, what else could you ask for in one book? Nothing – so go pick it up or download it, ASAP, a definite must read!
Review by Sliced Open Reviews
Source: Purchased
Airborne follows Avery returning to her school in Alaska after a summer with her brother in California. Upon her return to Mayweather Academy for her senior year, and within the first PAGE I was hooked! I love openings to books that get you right away and I mean get you like hook, line and line and line!
The overall concept for this book revolves around harpies, which in all my Mythological knowledge, I lacked any understanding of. This turned out to not really matter as my post reading research has turned up with stuff that would have utterly confused me if I had known prior to starting. Let’s just say that Constance Sharper’s version of the harpie world is much better! It was such a creative, distinctly original concept and contributed greatly to my new found love for this series. I will let you know though, that the harpy are the only Mythological concept within this book, there is no venture into other concepts, so don’t go into reading thinking you will be immersed in a Mythology setting, cause it’s not.
I will warn you that Constance Sharper is a self-published author, so editing could use some improvement, but things like that I can look past while reading, because to me, it’s not about grammar and punctuation, it’s about the story. Yes, yes I understand that we are reading works of writing, but when you pick up self-published titles you have to have an equal understanding of forfeiting editing for knock out finds, and this is definitely a knock out!
Best thing overall, ACTION ACTION ACTION. It didn’t stop, there were no lolls in chapters where you are just reading dialog or character thought that drags on. The story keeps going and never lets you sit back in your seat to take a breather. I think part of this stems from excellent character development. To me a huge contributing factor in staying hooked in a book is making sure that each character is fully vested in their initial mannerisms. Now, this doesn’t mean that characters can’t grow as the book and/or series progresses, but it means that you can’t let the character forget their roots; the end of the book needs to reflect characters who may have grown emotionally, but not CHANGE the way they act and talk. Constance Sharper was 100% in line with her characters and never faltered in remembering who they were and how they act. Sharper also managed to do something with the main characters that I have never experienced before. She created a female-lead that meets my high expectations, she created a male-lead-love interest that I never fell for, but still love, and a female-2nd-lead (BF to the lead) that I love to hate – sounds interesting, right? That’s because it is and it is one of the things I fell in love with most with this book.
Quick overview of main characters:
Avery: is the type of heroine that I like to read, she’s strong, slightly “forward” and I just love female leads that aren’t whiney and scared. She’s strong and I definitely fell right in pace with her.
Mason: tall, dark, mysterious, slightly aggressive and while most YA authors fight to make you swoon for the male lead, I have to admit, I never fell for Mason. In my mind it worked out well, because it keeps me reading to see the relationship grow and try and understand Avery’s passion. So, maybe it will come, and I will swoon as usual!
Leela: well, Leela and I have a love hate relationship. I love to hate her. I’m not sure why, I still cannot pin point the exact reason that I have this feeling. And while I love to hate her, I love to read her. Another extremely amazing thing about Constance Sharper’s writing, it is not very frequently that I hate a character, but love to read them. I just think there is something buried under Leela that will come out…I will just have to sit back and wait!
Fast pace, action, romance, harpies, suspense, kick-ass girl heroine, what else could you ask for in one book? Nothing – so go pick it up or download it, ASAP, a definite must read!
Review by Sliced Open Reviews
Source: Purchased
August 23, 2011
This novel has the making of being great. This book is different from the litter of YA novels that have been coming out lately, especially since it adds a new creature into the mix, Harpies. The story is very unique and nothing short of imaginative. I love all the action within this book, and all the twists and turns this novel takes.
Avery is a normal teen thrown into the vicious world of Harpies when magic passes from an amulet into her. This is something no one has ever seen before in the world of harpies, and they instantly see her as a threat. Mason comes to Avery to get the amulet from her when he discovers that Avery is now the containment for the magic. Mason and Avery then take a journey to help find a way for Avery to rid herself of the magic before the other harpies have a chance to kill her for it.
I still have a few problems with this book, but my most prominent is the English in this book. The grammar is very bad, but there are some simple solutions to help combat this.
(1) An editor- I’m positive if she would just have a second eye read this before she publishes it, this novel would be a lot better.
(2) A college course or two. A college course may allow her to get into touch with the grammar she’s forgotten since she was last in school (I’m not really sure how old the author is).
(3) If the author does not feel comfortable sharing her work for fear of it ending up on the internet or if she is short on time, then I suggest buying a Word 2007 package for her computer. While this will not solve all of her errors, it will catch her extra word usage and a great deal of her spelling errors.
This book’s good qualities far surpass its bad qualities though. It is imaginative, well drawn out, and filled with action. After a good editor’s check, this book could be something great. I’m giving this book 3/5 stars, I wanted to give it a 4/5, but I just can't get past the grammar.
So in all, if you can get past the grammar, I'm positive a reader would enjoy it.
Avery is a normal teen thrown into the vicious world of Harpies when magic passes from an amulet into her. This is something no one has ever seen before in the world of harpies, and they instantly see her as a threat. Mason comes to Avery to get the amulet from her when he discovers that Avery is now the containment for the magic. Mason and Avery then take a journey to help find a way for Avery to rid herself of the magic before the other harpies have a chance to kill her for it.
I still have a few problems with this book, but my most prominent is the English in this book. The grammar is very bad, but there are some simple solutions to help combat this.
(1) An editor- I’m positive if she would just have a second eye read this before she publishes it, this novel would be a lot better.
(2) A college course or two. A college course may allow her to get into touch with the grammar she’s forgotten since she was last in school (I’m not really sure how old the author is).
(3) If the author does not feel comfortable sharing her work for fear of it ending up on the internet or if she is short on time, then I suggest buying a Word 2007 package for her computer. While this will not solve all of her errors, it will catch her extra word usage and a great deal of her spelling errors.
This book’s good qualities far surpass its bad qualities though. It is imaginative, well drawn out, and filled with action. After a good editor’s check, this book could be something great. I’m giving this book 3/5 stars, I wanted to give it a 4/5, but I just can't get past the grammar.
So in all, if you can get past the grammar, I'm positive a reader would enjoy it.
November 4, 2011
First impression when I got the book:
I hate the font of the front and back cover, a lot. It looked unprofessional.
First impression when I read the blurb:
Wow, this sounds pretty good. I like the change of supernatural creatures, and harpies are definitely something that has not been written about, except maybe in the House of Night series by P.C. Cast.
The Review:
This book was surprised me. The blurb sounded like it had so much potential. I did not have high expectations for this book, I just treated it like any other book I would read. But Airborne was bad.
1. I did not like the author's writing style at all. Her writing style was very much like what you would read on story sites like Booksie or Quizilla, and it was quite amateurish.
2. I do like the "girl meets boy then falls in love" idea that is present in almost every teen/fiction book nowadays. However, the plot for this book was so badly written that I just couldn't finish the book. Avery meets Mason, who is looking for a magic amulet she happened to pick up while at the beach in California. Acceptable. But when she starts being attracted to him and just feeling as though she's quite infatuated with him, that's where I draw the line. They've only spent about a total of three days with each other? And half of that time was spent running away from thieves, meaning that the interaction between them was quite limited. And the sentence in the blurb about "handling an arrogant harpie boy who gets under her skin", made me think that Mason had this hot-cold, bad boy attitude going on. But he is completely different in the actual story. I found him cold, stone-cold.
Furthermore, the plot was also confusing most of the times, and I had to go back and reread some parts, even though I was already reading at a considerably slow place. This book was way too fast paced for me, and the action scenes....I doubt you can even call it that.
3. Last but not least, the characters. I don't like any of them, except maybe for Mason's sister. At least you more or less knew what her intentions were, and so did she. I couldn't connect with Avery no matter how hard I tried. She complained too much, worried too much, and has no taste in boys. And her friend, Leela, are they friends or frenemies? I didn't understand the relationship between these two, and it would have been nice if the author developed more of her characters.
I did not finish reading this book, but I will, because I don't like reading books halfway. So I'll finish it, and the rest of my review will be up by the end of this year. I've read about half of the book, and from what I've read, my advice? It is really not worth the read. I was very influenced by the good reviews, and I thought that I should give this book a chance, and that the bad reviews were just really harsh commentators. However, I see that I was gravely mistaken. Dear reader, don't make the same mistake.
I hate the font of the front and back cover, a lot. It looked unprofessional.
First impression when I read the blurb:
Wow, this sounds pretty good. I like the change of supernatural creatures, and harpies are definitely something that has not been written about, except maybe in the House of Night series by P.C. Cast.
The Review:
This book was surprised me. The blurb sounded like it had so much potential. I did not have high expectations for this book, I just treated it like any other book I would read. But Airborne was bad.
1. I did not like the author's writing style at all. Her writing style was very much like what you would read on story sites like Booksie or Quizilla, and it was quite amateurish.
2. I do like the "girl meets boy then falls in love" idea that is present in almost every teen/fiction book nowadays. However, the plot for this book was so badly written that I just couldn't finish the book. Avery meets Mason, who is looking for a magic amulet she happened to pick up while at the beach in California. Acceptable. But when she starts being attracted to him and just feeling as though she's quite infatuated with him, that's where I draw the line. They've only spent about a total of three days with each other? And half of that time was spent running away from thieves, meaning that the interaction between them was quite limited. And the sentence in the blurb about "handling an arrogant harpie boy who gets under her skin", made me think that Mason had this hot-cold, bad boy attitude going on. But he is completely different in the actual story. I found him cold, stone-cold.
Furthermore, the plot was also confusing most of the times, and I had to go back and reread some parts, even though I was already reading at a considerably slow place. This book was way too fast paced for me, and the action scenes....I doubt you can even call it that.
3. Last but not least, the characters. I don't like any of them, except maybe for Mason's sister. At least you more or less knew what her intentions were, and so did she. I couldn't connect with Avery no matter how hard I tried. She complained too much, worried too much, and has no taste in boys. And her friend, Leela, are they friends or frenemies? I didn't understand the relationship between these two, and it would have been nice if the author developed more of her characters.
I did not finish reading this book, but I will, because I don't like reading books halfway. So I'll finish it, and the rest of my review will be up by the end of this year. I've read about half of the book, and from what I've read, my advice? It is really not worth the read. I was very influenced by the good reviews, and I thought that I should give this book a chance, and that the bad reviews were just really harsh commentators. However, I see that I was gravely mistaken. Dear reader, don't make the same mistake.
September 23, 2011
Airborne by Constance Sharper was a huge surprise for me. I didn't know how I would like the story revolving around harpies but I was pleasantly satisfied where the plot line went. I've never read about harpies before and I was excited to read about something new and different.
Sharper took an unusual topic and made it great. The characters were believable and likeable especially Mason and Avery. The romantic attraction was awesome as well because it wasn't "love at first sight" like in most stories now-a-days, but more slowly acquired.
Avery was vacationing over the summer with her brother in California from her boarding school in Alaska when something weird happens. She is collecting shells from the beach when something shatters in her hand and causes this weird bruise to form. Avery thinks nothing of it and continues on with her daily life. But when a dreadfully attractive boy with an attitude shows up on her doorstep she is thrust into the world of Harpies.
Avery didn't just pick up any random stone on that beach, but a magic induced one. When that stone was broken the magic seeped into Avery's hand and has made her the top most sought after human in the Harpies world. This magic within her lets out a bright signal to all of the harpies, including the ones that want it only for themselves.
The first harpies Avery encounters is Mason. She is very leery of him and her first instinct is to run away from the insane story he is telling her. Then show up the out-law harpies, the Band, who want nothing more than to harness the power living in Avery, even if it means killing her. Forced to run into the forest from them Avery has no one to trust besides Mason.
They are always on the run from either the Band or the police of harpies and are constantly either being captured, escaping or eluding them. With the danger her life is put into over and over again Avery has to use the magic inside of her to survive. When she does this though the magic grows stronger and starts to cover more of her body. Since the magic was never supposed to be bound to a human the magic growing inside of her could become deadly.
The story took off a little slow but it began to pick up rather quickly. It was the kind of story that drew you in with the constant action and almost romance. It did end on a horrible cliff hanger, but the sequel, Grounded, was just released this month. If you are looking for something completely different from the normal YA Paranormal books, then this is the one for you. :)
Sharper took an unusual topic and made it great. The characters were believable and likeable especially Mason and Avery. The romantic attraction was awesome as well because it wasn't "love at first sight" like in most stories now-a-days, but more slowly acquired.
Avery was vacationing over the summer with her brother in California from her boarding school in Alaska when something weird happens. She is collecting shells from the beach when something shatters in her hand and causes this weird bruise to form. Avery thinks nothing of it and continues on with her daily life. But when a dreadfully attractive boy with an attitude shows up on her doorstep she is thrust into the world of Harpies.
Avery didn't just pick up any random stone on that beach, but a magic induced one. When that stone was broken the magic seeped into Avery's hand and has made her the top most sought after human in the Harpies world. This magic within her lets out a bright signal to all of the harpies, including the ones that want it only for themselves.
The first harpies Avery encounters is Mason. She is very leery of him and her first instinct is to run away from the insane story he is telling her. Then show up the out-law harpies, the Band, who want nothing more than to harness the power living in Avery, even if it means killing her. Forced to run into the forest from them Avery has no one to trust besides Mason.
They are always on the run from either the Band or the police of harpies and are constantly either being captured, escaping or eluding them. With the danger her life is put into over and over again Avery has to use the magic inside of her to survive. When she does this though the magic grows stronger and starts to cover more of her body. Since the magic was never supposed to be bound to a human the magic growing inside of her could become deadly.
The story took off a little slow but it began to pick up rather quickly. It was the kind of story that drew you in with the constant action and almost romance. It did end on a horrible cliff hanger, but the sequel, Grounded, was just released this month. If you are looking for something completely different from the normal YA Paranormal books, then this is the one for you. :)
June 24, 2011
I can't believe I waited so long to read this.
To begin, I love the characterization in this book. It is simply put, superb. I can't tell you how many books I've read where the main character either has one best friend that is real tight with her, or a bunch of friends. But here is a girl named Avery with one best friend who she constantly lies to! Finally something different! She doesn't fit in, but she tries to an extent. She's dated before but it didn't work out so well. She's risky, reckless and pretty lucky (or unlucky if you look at it from a completely different view). And I COULD RELATE!
And then Mason. He was different too. Not perfect because that just gets too unrealistic after a while. He was flawed. He had actual problems. He was too tall for her, could get a little pissy and wasn't perfection to stare at (I think that might have something to do with his trenchcoat). He was real and I could see the attraction.
Even smaller roles like Chase had a living human being aspect to them.
And the plot...oh the plot! So many angels and vampires these days which are good don't get me wrong but Sharper managed to keep paranormal while still being original. Harpies, genius!
The setting was great too. Alaska is the last place I would have picked but it fits. And California has been bumped up my need-to-visit list just so I can try to spot an unaware harpie.
The plot moved a lot quicker than I thought it would, but the ending killed me. Can't wait for the sequel!
One of my favourite quotes: Mason in context to Avery, bickering
" 'You know, you're not that bad looking for a human.' He said.
'Okay, quit that.' She spit out. 'Look at the wall or something.'
Her hands were shaking enough that she struggled to put on the hoodie right. Avery fumbled with the
zipper.
'It’s a compliment. Take the compliment.'
'Not from you.' She successfully zipped the hoodie all the way up to her neck, but she still refused to look at him.
'Why not from me? A harpie giving anyone a compliment is a plus. I don’t know why you’re so
twitchy about it. Have you really never been with a guy before?' "
Oh Mason... the cocky bastard.
To begin, I love the characterization in this book. It is simply put, superb. I can't tell you how many books I've read where the main character either has one best friend that is real tight with her, or a bunch of friends. But here is a girl named Avery with one best friend who she constantly lies to! Finally something different! She doesn't fit in, but she tries to an extent. She's dated before but it didn't work out so well. She's risky, reckless and pretty lucky (or unlucky if you look at it from a completely different view). And I COULD RELATE!
And then Mason. He was different too. Not perfect because that just gets too unrealistic after a while. He was flawed. He had actual problems. He was too tall for her, could get a little pissy and wasn't perfection to stare at (I think that might have something to do with his trenchcoat). He was real and I could see the attraction.
Even smaller roles like Chase had a living human being aspect to them.
And the plot...oh the plot! So many angels and vampires these days which are good don't get me wrong but Sharper managed to keep paranormal while still being original. Harpies, genius!
The setting was great too. Alaska is the last place I would have picked but it fits. And California has been bumped up my need-to-visit list just so I can try to spot an unaware harpie.
The plot moved a lot quicker than I thought it would, but the ending killed me. Can't wait for the sequel!
One of my favourite quotes: Mason in context to Avery, bickering
" 'You know, you're not that bad looking for a human.' He said.
'Okay, quit that.' She spit out. 'Look at the wall or something.'
Her hands were shaking enough that she struggled to put on the hoodie right. Avery fumbled with the
zipper.
'It’s a compliment. Take the compliment.'
'Not from you.' She successfully zipped the hoodie all the way up to her neck, but she still refused to look at him.
'Why not from me? A harpie giving anyone a compliment is a plus. I don’t know why you’re so
twitchy about it. Have you really never been with a guy before?' "
Oh Mason... the cocky bastard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2011
I would call Airborne, a self-published novel by Constance Sharper, a young-adult urban fantasy. It's about a high school girl who finds herself in the midst of a war between supernatural creatures.
At this point you're probably thinking, I've read this book. When I picked it up and started it I thought the same thing. This is not the same book. For one thing, the locality is much different. We start in Alaska, an unforgiving and to most of us, alien landscape. This might not be true for people who live there, but just that setting gave me a sense of urgency about the book. Being outside isn't just against the rules, it's dangerous. In an ordinary book, the 'walking' portions, where you're getting your character A to point B are sometimes grueling or if the author is smart, skipped over as quickly as possible. In this landscape it becomes a place to try our character against obstacles that are realistic and help us get a better sense of them.
Then there's the white bird in the room. Oh, wait, it's a harpy. Yes, there are harpies, and they are everything you imagine harpies to be. Everything I imagined harpies to be, at least. Being-harpy is a very important part of their character and how they view the world, and I appreciate this a lot because harpies are so... Well, they're not vampires. And they're not used in this book as vampire/werewolf/sparkle bunny analogs. They're very much themselves and very new feeling. I love them.
Honestly, this is a great book, and I couldn't find anything wrong with it. If there's a reason I'm not bouncing off the walls for the sequel, it's because I'm just not at a point right now where I'm interested in another YA fantasy. However, our main character is in her senior year at the beginning of this novel, so maybe the next novel will transcend the high school scene and I won't have to worry about it.
Check out my other reviews at my blog
At this point you're probably thinking, I've read this book. When I picked it up and started it I thought the same thing. This is not the same book. For one thing, the locality is much different. We start in Alaska, an unforgiving and to most of us, alien landscape. This might not be true for people who live there, but just that setting gave me a sense of urgency about the book. Being outside isn't just against the rules, it's dangerous. In an ordinary book, the 'walking' portions, where you're getting your character A to point B are sometimes grueling or if the author is smart, skipped over as quickly as possible. In this landscape it becomes a place to try our character against obstacles that are realistic and help us get a better sense of them.
Then there's the white bird in the room. Oh, wait, it's a harpy. Yes, there are harpies, and they are everything you imagine harpies to be. Everything I imagined harpies to be, at least. Being-harpy is a very important part of their character and how they view the world, and I appreciate this a lot because harpies are so... Well, they're not vampires. And they're not used in this book as vampire/werewolf/sparkle bunny analogs. They're very much themselves and very new feeling. I love them.
Honestly, this is a great book, and I couldn't find anything wrong with it. If there's a reason I'm not bouncing off the walls for the sequel, it's because I'm just not at a point right now where I'm interested in another YA fantasy. However, our main character is in her senior year at the beginning of this novel, so maybe the next novel will transcend the high school scene and I won't have to worry about it.
Check out my other reviews at my blog
September 15, 2011
Avery will capture the readers' attention. She is funny, somewhat abrasive, caring, and intelligent. The setting is in Alaska, a very different setting that a reader is not likely to find in many, if any, other books. The setting sets the scene for a pervading sense of danger, the reader will feel a sense of urgency while reading.
Then there are the harpies. Harpies are creatures, male and female, who are not friendly to humans and are quick to anger. Avery encounters her first harpy, Mason, when she is accosted by him. He demands to know where a special pendant is and threatens her several times. Avery handles it fairly well, considering the situation. The reader will find out that the pendant may actually be part of Avery, making her a prime target for the other Harpies.
The reader will meet many other Harpies much to Avery's chagrin. Each Harpy in the book has a unique quality and/or quirk that will make him/her memorable. Mason, for instance, becomes the potential love interest-a tabboo among his kind. He can be protective, caring, and thoughtful when he isn't flying off the handle at something Avery did or said AGAIN.
This book was very fast-paced, filled with exciting scenes and plenty of action, had a very unusual plot, and provided the reader with the perfect cliff-hanger to make the reader instantly mark "Grounded", the sequel, as a to-read. This book would be terrific for those who enjoy fantasy with a touch of romance and mystery.
July 4, 2011
This book.
It sounds totally interesting, right?
Like a good teenage fantasy read?
NO.
i was disappointed. SO VERY DISAPPOINTED. The main character really is a likable character though, and she struggles through a great adventure. But there were toooooo many equally unlikable parts to this book. The main romance, the harpie boy, is...oddly developed...like umm...WHERE DID IT SUDDENLY COME TO BE? it just -BAM- appeared.
Also- Mr. Harpie-- he's engaged.
woops. did i let that slip?
OH WAIT. he tells you that in the beginning so it MUST not be that important... o.O WHAT? VERY IMPORTANT IF YOU HAPPEN TO BE FLIRTING WITH OUR PROTAGONIST MR. HARPIE.
and the writing....
oh dear.
i write better.
my brother writes better.
my grandmother writes better.
its called sentence fluency. diversity.
sorry but thats the ugly truth.
:p
It sounds totally interesting, right?
Like a good teenage fantasy read?
NO.
i was disappointed. SO VERY DISAPPOINTED. The main character really is a likable character though, and she struggles through a great adventure. But there were toooooo many equally unlikable parts to this book. The main romance, the harpie boy, is...oddly developed...like umm...WHERE DID IT SUDDENLY COME TO BE? it just -BAM- appeared.
Also- Mr. Harpie-- he's engaged.
woops. did i let that slip?
OH WAIT. he tells you that in the beginning so it MUST not be that important... o.O WHAT? VERY IMPORTANT IF YOU HAPPEN TO BE FLIRTING WITH OUR PROTAGONIST MR. HARPIE.
and the writing....
oh dear.
i write better.
my brother writes better.
my grandmother writes better.
its called sentence fluency. diversity.
sorry but thats the ugly truth.
:p
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2011
I’ll be the first to admit I’ve never read, or ever heard about, a book concerning harpies. Constance brings a new creature to the paranormal/mythological table, and she isn’t afraid to throw you in with them. Airborne is a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat supernatural thriller with a lot of action and a budding romance.
Avery is thrust into the world of harpies after she cuts her hand on what she thought was a seashell. As it turns out, the “seashell” wasn’t a seashell at all; it was an amulet from the harpy king himself. The magic inside the amulet leaked into Avery and now others are after her. But with a little help from Mason, son of the harpy king, she’ll have to protect the magic inside of her until they figure out how to release it. A way that doesn’t involve death.
Avery is thrust into the world of harpies after she cuts her hand on what she thought was a seashell. As it turns out, the “seashell” wasn’t a seashell at all; it was an amulet from the harpy king himself. The magic inside the amulet leaked into Avery and now others are after her. But with a little help from Mason, son of the harpy king, she’ll have to protect the magic inside of her until they figure out how to release it. A way that doesn’t involve death.
July 10, 2011
Airborne was diffrent compared to all the other books with vampires, werewolve, and angels. This book was about harpies, I mean how often do you get to read about harpies? The answer is never. The storyline was amazing, it was fast-paced and action packed. There was a combination of everything that makes up a good story. There was mystery, romance, suspense and did I mention action. Honestly I couldnt put it down, I tried hard to pace myself but failed (-__-). I couldnt stop, I was so submerged into the book that I forgot where I was most of the time. I loved that the relationship between Avery and Mason wasnt rushed into, but it progressed through out the story. This book had everything I wanted and then some.
April 14, 2011
Honestly, I usually avoid self-published books because(and lets admit it) they can be horrible. But I decided to give this one a try because of a friend recommendation. Since I was shocked about how good it was, I gave it a five. I could see it in any bookstore.
The writing, pacing, and story line were good. There were some missing commas here and there but I never struggled to understand anything. Less romance than I expected though and I wanted to see the classic story book ending! I read the synopsis for Grounded, the sequel, so I definitely see that dynamic relationship developing eventually.
Looking forward to the next one.
The writing, pacing, and story line were good. There were some missing commas here and there but I never struggled to understand anything. Less romance than I expected though and I wanted to see the classic story book ending! I read the synopsis for Grounded, the sequel, so I definitely see that dynamic relationship developing eventually.
Looking forward to the next one.
March 31, 2011
I didn't know what to make of the harpie idea from the summary but upon reading, I loved it. She took the mythology and made it a modern paranormal classic. Harpies are arrogant, nasty, and very tall people (human looking) with angel wings. Mason (the starring harpie) is a character to fall in love with. His personality isn't flat but instead he's one of the most round character in the book. In fact, all of the characters seemed dynamic barring few. Avery is the protagonist of the story. The author did a good job in making her realistic, unique, but with universal appeal. Her personality develops dynamically over the course of the show.
I loved the characters but it's still a plot driven story. The plot is quick paced and has a clear goal by the end of the book.
*Some spoiler starting here*
The plot follows Avery, a normal high school student who happens to stumble upon a "shiny rock" on her California vacation. She returns to her boarding school only to find that the "shiny rock" she picked up was a harpie amulet. Mason shows up to get it back. The problem arises when they figure out that the amulet has broken open and the magic has gotten stuck in Avery's body. Stuck together, Mason and Avery go on a mission to get the magic out of her body and they go bashing heads the entire way. There is a lot of humor and not too much romance. The author makes it entertaining but realistic. No undying love at first sight done here which is a relief. Anyways, their escapades are complicated by the other harpies who want to cut Avery open to get the magic back. The plot is complex and interlinking and I was surprised how much it kept you thinking. There is a little bit of mystery here.
It leaves off for a sequel, which is needed to wrap up the characters lives, but I'm happy of where it ended.
I loved the characters but it's still a plot driven story. The plot is quick paced and has a clear goal by the end of the book.
*Some spoiler starting here*
The plot follows Avery, a normal high school student who happens to stumble upon a "shiny rock" on her California vacation. She returns to her boarding school only to find that the "shiny rock" she picked up was a harpie amulet. Mason shows up to get it back. The problem arises when they figure out that the amulet has broken open and the magic has gotten stuck in Avery's body. Stuck together, Mason and Avery go on a mission to get the magic out of her body and they go bashing heads the entire way. There is a lot of humor and not too much romance. The author makes it entertaining but realistic. No undying love at first sight done here which is a relief. Anyways, their escapades are complicated by the other harpies who want to cut Avery open to get the magic back. The plot is complex and interlinking and I was surprised how much it kept you thinking. There is a little bit of mystery here.
It leaves off for a sequel, which is needed to wrap up the characters lives, but I'm happy of where it ended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2011
Airborne by Constance Sharper is a surprising and entertaining novel about Harpies and humans!
I have never heard about Harpies before nor have I ever encountered anything with Harpies. I was primarily interested in this novel because I have never heard of Harpies and was deeply interested to learn more about who they were.
Avery is your typical average girl/human. On vacation, she discovers an amulet, but when she picked it up, it dissolved and the magic contained in the amulet is now within her. Unknown to what the magic holds, she knows it is powerful and she is now in danger to all Harpies seeking the magic contained in that amulet.
Mason, the boy who stalked Avery to her school, knows that Avery holds the magic. Determined to “get the magic” from her, he saves her over and over again trying to look for ways help her and to help himself retrieve the magic. Little did they know, only one thing can get the magic out of Avery and that is…
The world of Harpies is very different. Yeah, there are humans in the Harpies world, but they are slaves.
What I like is the magic that Avery possesses. It is extremely powerful! I also like the idea of Harpies and humans in a world together. It contrasts each other a little bit, being able to see something that is similar and different in both worlds.
Avery and Mason are great characters. Even though Mason seemed kind of scary to me in the beginning, he gets better as you progress in the book further. I already had a hunch that there would be something between the two of them and I think it is great. It is better than the other person in their lives.
Airborne is very entertaining novel. The ending leaves you hanging a little, which means, I would have to read the next novel for more information about the magic, and Avery and Mason!
I have never heard about Harpies before nor have I ever encountered anything with Harpies. I was primarily interested in this novel because I have never heard of Harpies and was deeply interested to learn more about who they were.
Avery is your typical average girl/human. On vacation, she discovers an amulet, but when she picked it up, it dissolved and the magic contained in the amulet is now within her. Unknown to what the magic holds, she knows it is powerful and she is now in danger to all Harpies seeking the magic contained in that amulet.
Mason, the boy who stalked Avery to her school, knows that Avery holds the magic. Determined to “get the magic” from her, he saves her over and over again trying to look for ways help her and to help himself retrieve the magic. Little did they know, only one thing can get the magic out of Avery and that is…
The world of Harpies is very different. Yeah, there are humans in the Harpies world, but they are slaves.
What I like is the magic that Avery possesses. It is extremely powerful! I also like the idea of Harpies and humans in a world together. It contrasts each other a little bit, being able to see something that is similar and different in both worlds.
Avery and Mason are great characters. Even though Mason seemed kind of scary to me in the beginning, he gets better as you progress in the book further. I already had a hunch that there would be something between the two of them and I think it is great. It is better than the other person in their lives.
Airborne is very entertaining novel. The ending leaves you hanging a little, which means, I would have to read the next novel for more information about the magic, and Avery and Mason!
May 31, 2012
I wanted to like this novel, I really did. For one, it's self published. Which means its a labour of love. Two, I won a copy off an indie writer blog and the author signed it for me. I love that personal touch. Plus, self publishing isn't cheap so I appreciate the fact she was giving away copies.
Despite all that, I didn't enjoy this novel. The writing style is awkward, the grammar is poor and the plotting is full of holes. There are certain things you expect in a novel. Plot devices, sequencing that makes sense, strong characterisation... All these things were lacking.
Stuff just happened in this novel. Lots of stuff. With no foreshadowing, no build up... It's like the author had all these great ideas but couldn't quiet get them down on paper in a way which made sense.
Lastly, the phrasing and conversations in this book were strange. I had to reread a number of paragraphs to make sense of them. Also, half way through the book the main female character says "I'm just here for shits and giggles". You are not Austen Powers! It didn't suit the story or the character which is why it stood out.
I honestly don't think this book was edited. At least, not by a third party. An editor is important and this book is a good example why. I think with some tough editing and guidance this could have been a good story.
I am sure once the author has more experience writing, she will get better. Passion for writing is the only positive aspect which showed itself throughout this novel. Which also tells me sometimes there is a reason you need to keep working and keep trying to be picked up by a publisher. Self publishing isn't always a good thing.
Despite all that, I didn't enjoy this novel. The writing style is awkward, the grammar is poor and the plotting is full of holes. There are certain things you expect in a novel. Plot devices, sequencing that makes sense, strong characterisation... All these things were lacking.
Stuff just happened in this novel. Lots of stuff. With no foreshadowing, no build up... It's like the author had all these great ideas but couldn't quiet get them down on paper in a way which made sense.
Lastly, the phrasing and conversations in this book were strange. I had to reread a number of paragraphs to make sense of them. Also, half way through the book the main female character says "I'm just here for shits and giggles". You are not Austen Powers! It didn't suit the story or the character which is why it stood out.
I honestly don't think this book was edited. At least, not by a third party. An editor is important and this book is a good example why. I think with some tough editing and guidance this could have been a good story.
I am sure once the author has more experience writing, she will get better. Passion for writing is the only positive aspect which showed itself throughout this novel. Which also tells me sometimes there is a reason you need to keep working and keep trying to be picked up by a publisher. Self publishing isn't always a good thing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2011
This is the first book I've ever read with harpies and I was pleasantly surprised where Constance Sharper took the story. The characters were engaging, the romantic attraction between characters wasn't love at first sight but built slowly through the story and the harpy civilization was believable.
Avery was just your average girl hanging out on the beach when the simple act of picking up a stone threw her into the world of the harpies. When she broke the stone, the magic within seeped into the nearest organic life it could find - Avery - and unfortunately, the magic within her shines bright and attracts all sorts of harpies who want the magic for themselves.
Mason is the first to arrive and discover the magic has left its' protective stone. He's willing to help her get it out but isn't optimistic it can be done without her death. Of course, Avery's instinct is to run from the winged man but when a separate group of harpies crash in and are willing to cut it out of her immediately, she has no option but to trust him.
Constantly on the run and in and out of the enemy's grasp, desperate acts to save her life cause Avery to use the power inside her. But it comes with a price. With each use, the magic grows stronger and spreads further across her body. The magic was not meant to bind to a human - one use too many will end her life.
About a third into the book, the story just took off and didn't stop till the end. The story felt resolved but left a cliffhanger that'll make your mouth water until Grounded is released.
http://devonashleywrites.blogspot.com
Avery was just your average girl hanging out on the beach when the simple act of picking up a stone threw her into the world of the harpies. When she broke the stone, the magic within seeped into the nearest organic life it could find - Avery - and unfortunately, the magic within her shines bright and attracts all sorts of harpies who want the magic for themselves.
Mason is the first to arrive and discover the magic has left its' protective stone. He's willing to help her get it out but isn't optimistic it can be done without her death. Of course, Avery's instinct is to run from the winged man but when a separate group of harpies crash in and are willing to cut it out of her immediately, she has no option but to trust him.
Constantly on the run and in and out of the enemy's grasp, desperate acts to save her life cause Avery to use the power inside her. But it comes with a price. With each use, the magic grows stronger and spreads further across her body. The magic was not meant to bind to a human - one use too many will end her life.
About a third into the book, the story just took off and didn't stop till the end. The story felt resolved but left a cliffhanger that'll make your mouth water until Grounded is released.
http://devonashleywrites.blogspot.com
May 14, 2011
"Airborne" is a great story about Harpies living among humans off the coast of California. Avery attends boarding school in Alaska. However, this past summer she visited her brother in California. On the fourth of July she discovers an unusual shell on the beach and when she picks it up, she receives a minor cut (or so she thinks).
Upon returning to school for her senior year, Avery finds things have not changed. She is still an outcast but her best friend awaits her. Her best friend is also dating Nathan, a jerk who loves 'em and leaves 'em. Before Avery gets a chance to voice her opposition to this relationship, a tall (6'7") handsome stranger appears at her door with her school schedule. He asks Avery to take a walk with him and that is when her world changes forever. Avery discovers harpies exist and that the cut she received was not just a regular old mishap.
I truly enjoyed this book and the blend of mythology into the modern day world. It is refreshing to read something other than vampires and werewolves. This book is chocked full of action, mystery, betrayal and lust. It is a coming of age story that does not rush the romance aspect faster than believable as so many YA novels do. I found that I could not put it down. My only regret is that I purchased the kindle version and now I need to buy the paperback so that I can loan it out so my students.
I cannot wait until the next installment of this story. If you are interested in something new, different and exciting, Airborne is the book for you!
Upon returning to school for her senior year, Avery finds things have not changed. She is still an outcast but her best friend awaits her. Her best friend is also dating Nathan, a jerk who loves 'em and leaves 'em. Before Avery gets a chance to voice her opposition to this relationship, a tall (6'7") handsome stranger appears at her door with her school schedule. He asks Avery to take a walk with him and that is when her world changes forever. Avery discovers harpies exist and that the cut she received was not just a regular old mishap.
I truly enjoyed this book and the blend of mythology into the modern day world. It is refreshing to read something other than vampires and werewolves. This book is chocked full of action, mystery, betrayal and lust. It is a coming of age story that does not rush the romance aspect faster than believable as so many YA novels do. I found that I could not put it down. My only regret is that I purchased the kindle version and now I need to buy the paperback so that I can loan it out so my students.
I cannot wait until the next installment of this story. If you are interested in something new, different and exciting, Airborne is the book for you!
June 1, 2011
This debut novel takes a risk and includes a rare paranormal character - harpies.
According to the dictionary, a harpy is: "A rapacious monster described as having a woman's head and body and a bird's wings and claws or depicted as a bird of prey with a woman's face." In her novel, harpies come in both male and female. They are bad-tempered beings, quick to anger and intolerant of humans. The vast majority of humans have no idea that harpies even exist.
Avery attends The Mayweather Academy, a boarding school in Alaska. She notices a tall man watching her as she returns to school for the fall semester. It seems that she has somehow obtained a magical amulet that belongs to a Harpy Prince. The fun begins......
I enjoyed this book. The harpies are great characters, and Avery is your typical teenager. Not popular, or even especially brainy, she has a best friend, Leela, and boy troubles. Or, shall we say, lack of boy troubles. That changes once Mason, the Harpy Prince's son, comes into her life.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, but there is plenty of action and magic involved, along with some teen angst. Does Avery really like Mason, or are her feelings a result of the drastic situations they find themselves in? Does Mason have feelings for Avery, or is he just out to reclaim the magic Avery possesses?
This isn't a tender YA book, but neither is it overly graphic. I would recommend it for ages 14+. I am definitely going to be looking for the next book in this series
According to the dictionary, a harpy is: "A rapacious monster described as having a woman's head and body and a bird's wings and claws or depicted as a bird of prey with a woman's face." In her novel, harpies come in both male and female. They are bad-tempered beings, quick to anger and intolerant of humans. The vast majority of humans have no idea that harpies even exist.
Avery attends The Mayweather Academy, a boarding school in Alaska. She notices a tall man watching her as she returns to school for the fall semester. It seems that she has somehow obtained a magical amulet that belongs to a Harpy Prince. The fun begins......
I enjoyed this book. The harpies are great characters, and Avery is your typical teenager. Not popular, or even especially brainy, she has a best friend, Leela, and boy troubles. Or, shall we say, lack of boy troubles. That changes once Mason, the Harpy Prince's son, comes into her life.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, but there is plenty of action and magic involved, along with some teen angst. Does Avery really like Mason, or are her feelings a result of the drastic situations they find themselves in? Does Mason have feelings for Avery, or is he just out to reclaim the magic Avery possesses?
This isn't a tender YA book, but neither is it overly graphic. I would recommend it for ages 14+. I am definitely going to be looking for the next book in this series
April 14, 2012
sooo.. it ended up as a DNF. I might still slog through, and maybe it'll get better, but as of right now I'm about half way, and I couldn't care less. I honestly don't even remember enough details to right the best review, and I put it down about a week ago.
Avery is in a word... annoying. Whiny, childish, somewhat sympathetic I guess? I felt a little sorry for her? I couldn't bring myself to care at all what would happen to her, but I could feel for her crappy situation, maybe a little? Same goes for Mason. Arrogant, crooked smile, beautiful, somewhat wounded..etc..etc. (sound familiar?) Mason. Who, wait, is engaged to another woman?
I really liked the premise, I thought I could get into it, but it felt like the plot was kind of unorganized. The harpy thing was cool, the fights were kind of neat. I was pleased in the beginning when Avery left the boarding school pretty early on, and her escape with Mason was exciting, but then she had to go back to school?? I mean, going back to the original setting is not entertaining I'm afraid, it really can ruin the pacing. Not to mention the original setting is such an overdone one that I almost have the same exact school in my imagination for every one of these boarding school series because most of the authors fail to describe anything to make me see it differently. Anyways, read it if you want, it does follow some of these typical YA outlines, so you might dig it, but I didn't. I give it two stars because I liked the very beginning, but it died fast.
Avery is in a word... annoying. Whiny, childish, somewhat sympathetic I guess? I felt a little sorry for her? I couldn't bring myself to care at all what would happen to her, but I could feel for her crappy situation, maybe a little? Same goes for Mason. Arrogant, crooked smile, beautiful, somewhat wounded..etc..etc. (sound familiar?) Mason. Who, wait, is engaged to another woman?
I really liked the premise, I thought I could get into it, but it felt like the plot was kind of unorganized. The harpy thing was cool, the fights were kind of neat. I was pleased in the beginning when Avery left the boarding school pretty early on, and her escape with Mason was exciting, but then she had to go back to school?? I mean, going back to the original setting is not entertaining I'm afraid, it really can ruin the pacing. Not to mention the original setting is such an overdone one that I almost have the same exact school in my imagination for every one of these boarding school series because most of the authors fail to describe anything to make me see it differently. Anyways, read it if you want, it does follow some of these typical YA outlines, so you might dig it, but I didn't. I give it two stars because I liked the very beginning, but it died fast.
June 4, 2011
It’s got quite an eloquent writing style which is nice and something you don’t see often anymore. Let me tell you, I’m so sick of “he did this, she did that, she felt like this…” books. The author has at least taken one writing class and can form more than simple sentences unlike most of the YA genre. Now, maybe it’s not for the younger audience at a higher level of reading but the story does involve a high school girl and is very much a young adult tale. The gist is this. Seventeen year old Avery Zane is your average teenager off at some boarding school in the middle of no where. She has school troubles, boy troubles, but nothing out of the ordinary until “harpie” shows up at the doorstep. This isn’t like greek mythology harpies because the author took a creative spin like everyone does with vampires now a days. They resemble the legend very little.
Overall, I quite liked the book and would be interested in reading the sequel.
Overall, I quite liked the book and would be interested in reading the sequel.
November 2, 2012
Ughhhh. I don't know. I got REALLY bored reading this book, to the point that I don't even want to know what will happen in the end. (I usually look up the ending if I think its a waste of time) Well, IT REALLY IS.
I totally hated Mason. I mean, I tried to look into him, to understand him. Reading the book, giving chances of how Mason will prove himself a jerk that he is (well i see him that way) and have this nasty remarks on the main girl with having his fiancé all along! -____- *yeey for those who hate a 2cake-faced person*
I don't like the paranormal stuff all along. with band of thieves and such, ughh.
Hmm. I don't think it will get better in the succeeding chapters, so I gave up on it.
I totally hated Mason. I mean, I tried to look into him, to understand him. Reading the book, giving chances of how Mason will prove himself a jerk that he is (well i see him that way) and have this nasty remarks on the main girl with having his fiancé all along! -____- *yeey for those who hate a 2cake-faced person*
I don't like the paranormal stuff all along. with band of thieves and such, ughh.
Hmm. I don't think it will get better in the succeeding chapters, so I gave up on it.
December 9, 2011
LOVED IT! This book was unique and totally amazing. It has everything: action, a hot hero, a tough heroine, and tons of sexual tension (seriously, the entire book I was on the edge of my seat yelling "get together already!")The fact that Airborne uses harpies makes it an anomaly; new mythological creatures that I now adore (well, maybe some of them; some of them I hated)
The only problem I had was that the plot was jumpy. One thing would happen and before I had time to process, the plot jerked somewhat ungracefully to the next event. This makes Airborne fastpaced, but it flow wasn't the greatest.
Overall, though, Airborne is AMAZING! I would recommend it to anyone.
The only problem I had was that the plot was jumpy. One thing would happen and before I had time to process, the plot jerked somewhat ungracefully to the next event. This makes Airborne fastpaced, but it flow wasn't the greatest.
Overall, though, Airborne is AMAZING! I would recommend it to anyone.
July 4, 2011
Better editing would have helped this book immensely (for both content and copy). The number one question I wanted to ask through the whole book was....why the heck was she in an Alaskan private school, living on campus???? Where were her parents when she took off? Where was the concern from family and school friends??? This book had so many what the heck moments it drove me nuts. There were many typos, grammatical errors and obvious spell check errors. The idea was interesting but nothing fleshed it out. I probably would not read another one by this author.
July 20, 2011
I found Airborne a fun light read. I have never read a book about harpies before and found the harpie mythology to be very interesting. I enjoyed Mason’s humor the most and admired Avery’s bravery. The story line really sucked me in from the very beginning. This is a well written book and I was able to feel the tension and humor in different situations. I look forward to reading the second book to see where the author takes Mason and Avery’s relationship to.
July 25, 2011
Honestly, I was expecting more. I bought this off of Amazon and thought the idea of using 'harpies' was unique and interesting. However, the book did absolutely nothing for me. It took me a long time to finish which for me isn't a great sign. I didn't get drawn in by the female lead in any way and I only like the male lead a little. It's not a horrible book by any means but still not something I would ever read again or tell my friends about. Sorry :(
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