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Journey into the Realm #1
The Elf Girl
The beginning of an incredible journey...
At fifteen, Ramsey Wilder spends every day receiving numerous taunts and insults from those around her because of her strange, exotic looks. With her pale skin and striking features – not to mention the pointy ears – she struggles with self-confidence, often feeling out of place in her small home town of Wisconsin.
One night, Ramsey nearly drowns from what she can only describe as a magical encounter, and when she meets a beautiful pair of siblings who happen to have the same physical features as she, Ramsey learns that she is far more different than she once realized. She is an elf.
Whisked away to a magical Realm with unique beings like her, Ramsey finds herself placed with the duty of finding her long lost sister. Kidnapped by fairies in the middle of a dangerous war between fae and the elf kind, her sister is the key to a secret surrounding Ramsey’s past that could potentially affect the outcome of the war. Without her, Ramsey will never know why her parents sent her to live with the humans in the first place, or why threats far deadlier than the war itself seem to be waiting in the wings.
Dangers lie waiting for Ramsey wherever she goes, and as she delves deeper into the world of fantasy, she learns that magic isn’t always wondrous and beautiful; it can be cruel and wicked.
Surrounded by mystery, magic…and even a little romance, Ramsey sets out to save her sister, unveil her past, and discover herself.
At fifteen, Ramsey Wilder spends every day receiving numerous taunts and insults from those around her because of her strange, exotic looks. With her pale skin and striking features – not to mention the pointy ears – she struggles with self-confidence, often feeling out of place in her small home town of Wisconsin.
One night, Ramsey nearly drowns from what she can only describe as a magical encounter, and when she meets a beautiful pair of siblings who happen to have the same physical features as she, Ramsey learns that she is far more different than she once realized. She is an elf.
Whisked away to a magical Realm with unique beings like her, Ramsey finds herself placed with the duty of finding her long lost sister. Kidnapped by fairies in the middle of a dangerous war between fae and the elf kind, her sister is the key to a secret surrounding Ramsey’s past that could potentially affect the outcome of the war. Without her, Ramsey will never know why her parents sent her to live with the humans in the first place, or why threats far deadlier than the war itself seem to be waiting in the wings.
Dangers lie waiting for Ramsey wherever she goes, and as she delves deeper into the world of fantasy, she learns that magic isn’t always wondrous and beautiful; it can be cruel and wicked.
Surrounded by mystery, magic…and even a little romance, Ramsey sets out to save her sister, unveil her past, and discover herself.
357 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 7, 2015
Ramsey has spent her whole life feeling like an outsider; she suddenly realises why when a girl who looks a lot like her, takes her to the Elf Realm, where she discovers her true family and true identity.
I recently signed up for a read and review of The Spell Master (Journey Into The Realm #2), so I figured I best buy and catch up on Ramsey's story thus far. To be very honest, I wish I hadn't. These books were very long-winded, and as I wasn't as enthralled by them as many other reviewers, it was a lot to get through in a relatively short time.
Ok, possibly one of the main reasons that I did not like this book is because I did not like Ramsey. And as this story is from her perspective, there's no getting away from her.
She is the most selfish, attention-seeking little hermit I've come across. She's constantly being bullied at school for her pointy ears, perfect and pale complexion, and bone-straight silvery-blonde hair. Her figure is tall and graceful (although she has the token clumsy gene). Despite swearing that she's a reclusive freak, Ramsey is constantly being described in a way that you know she's beautiful.
Ok, yes, I realise that girls can bully pretty girls they find a threat. But seldom does the bullied party ever feel pretty.
Then Addison comes along, reveals that Ramsey is an elf, given to be raised by humans when she was a baby because of The Secret. Addison needs Ramsey to come home because her real sister, Zora, has been kidnapped and only Ramsey can find her. Then Ramsey, despite saying how heartbroken she is over the whole situation, abandons her human family, follows Addison into another world, then doesn't give them another thought.
Cue the elf realm. Ramsey spends her time with Addison's family, flirting with the swoon-worthy Stellan, and generally being introduced to elf life. When she is away from these strangers that treat her with such reverence, she is exploring her family's old house. She is checking out her sister's wardrobe and getting an idea of what Zora is like by reading a how-to-be-an-elf guide Zora wrote and left especially for her. Oh, it turns out that her family is also really really rich. And the town is super-friendly, and all these cute elf guys work in shops, and such nice jewelry and books for her to peruse at her leisure - where's the urgency? Ramsey's sister has been kidnapped by violent elemental fairies? She could be getting tortured as we speak?!
Likewise, I was appalled with Addison and Stellan - they were both close to Zora in their own way. Why aren't they doing something? Why aren't they pushing this so-called saviour to go and actually save her sister?
It's not just the content that keeps things slow - the writing is... correct in terms of grammar and spelling and all that; but there is so much exposition and description of the mundane. It hits pause so many times to analyse and assess one particular point or another. It's almost like Grabo is scared someone's going to come along and start pointing out plotholes with a neon finger, so she completely overdoes tying up every last little loose end.
I find it very frustrating when someone creates a world and then has to show you every last inch of it, you have to trust readers to understand the world before them.
So why 2 stars, instead of 1? Ok, I'll admit that the world Grabo has created is very imaginative, and caught my interest.
I recently signed up for a read and review of The Spell Master (Journey Into The Realm #2), so I figured I best buy and catch up on Ramsey's story thus far. To be very honest, I wish I hadn't. These books were very long-winded, and as I wasn't as enthralled by them as many other reviewers, it was a lot to get through in a relatively short time.
Ok, possibly one of the main reasons that I did not like this book is because I did not like Ramsey. And as this story is from her perspective, there's no getting away from her.
She is the most selfish, attention-seeking little hermit I've come across. She's constantly being bullied at school for her pointy ears, perfect and pale complexion, and bone-straight silvery-blonde hair. Her figure is tall and graceful (although she has the token clumsy gene). Despite swearing that she's a reclusive freak, Ramsey is constantly being described in a way that you know she's beautiful.
Ok, yes, I realise that girls can bully pretty girls they find a threat. But seldom does the bullied party ever feel pretty.
Then Addison comes along, reveals that Ramsey is an elf, given to be raised by humans when she was a baby because of The Secret. Addison needs Ramsey to come home because her real sister, Zora, has been kidnapped and only Ramsey can find her. Then Ramsey, despite saying how heartbroken she is over the whole situation, abandons her human family, follows Addison into another world, then doesn't give them another thought.
Cue the elf realm. Ramsey spends her time with Addison's family, flirting with the swoon-worthy Stellan, and generally being introduced to elf life. When she is away from these strangers that treat her with such reverence, she is exploring her family's old house. She is checking out her sister's wardrobe and getting an idea of what Zora is like by reading a how-to-be-an-elf guide Zora wrote and left especially for her. Oh, it turns out that her family is also really really rich. And the town is super-friendly, and all these cute elf guys work in shops, and such nice jewelry and books for her to peruse at her leisure - where's the urgency? Ramsey's sister has been kidnapped by violent elemental fairies? She could be getting tortured as we speak?!
Likewise, I was appalled with Addison and Stellan - they were both close to Zora in their own way. Why aren't they doing something? Why aren't they pushing this so-called saviour to go and actually save her sister?
It's not just the content that keeps things slow - the writing is... correct in terms of grammar and spelling and all that; but there is so much exposition and description of the mundane. It hits pause so many times to analyse and assess one particular point or another. It's almost like Grabo is scared someone's going to come along and start pointing out plotholes with a neon finger, so she completely overdoes tying up every last little loose end.
I find it very frustrating when someone creates a world and then has to show you every last inch of it, you have to trust readers to understand the world before them.
So why 2 stars, instead of 1? Ok, I'll admit that the world Grabo has created is very imaginative, and caught my interest.
May 4, 2014
Within a magical realm of wonder lies a deftly woven, multifarious mystery just waiting to be explored!
In a land of myth, and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of a young Elf. Her name is…Ramsey.
Plunging into a darkly mesmeric world of sweeping imaginative concepts and awe-inspiring vision, I encountered a concoction of characters and creatures amid an enchanting backdrop of singularity. The journey I took into this fantasy realm was one of impressive epicness and memorability that ultimately left me inwardly shaken. Not since JK Rowling or Phillip Pullman have I encountered a remarkably distinctive children’s/ Young Adult fantasy story of such divergence to all that is commonly found within this competitive, popular (and rather overcrowded) genre! As fantastic main protagonist Ramsey set out to save her sister, unveil her past and discover herself…I could not help but be compulsively pulled along by such an addictive and intriguing multi-layered tale.
How many books are there about Elves? Certainly not many despite being a common creature within both high/ epic fantasy fiction and children’s literature! This was the main element that makes this incredibly exciting new series standout a mile from other books, and so I give sanction for you to behold something supremely singular.
I did not expect to be so overwhelmed by such a well-crafted and brilliantly realised storyline nor by the intensity within the extensive narrative. Not only did this dazzling debut exceed expectations but surpass them by the refreshing originality and avoidance of common clichés. Ramsey is a likeable heroine whom I instantly warmed to as she faced many difficult challenges along her path of self-discovery, and grew and developed into a strong individual. This undeniably addictive adventure will delight fans of fantasy both young and old, and so I cannot thank Markelle Grabo enough for providing me with an e-copy of “The Elf Girl” to read.
I eagerly await delving into book 2 with keen interest…
In a land of myth, and a time of magic, the destiny of a great kingdom rests on the shoulders of a young Elf. Her name is…Ramsey.
Plunging into a darkly mesmeric world of sweeping imaginative concepts and awe-inspiring vision, I encountered a concoction of characters and creatures amid an enchanting backdrop of singularity. The journey I took into this fantasy realm was one of impressive epicness and memorability that ultimately left me inwardly shaken. Not since JK Rowling or Phillip Pullman have I encountered a remarkably distinctive children’s/ Young Adult fantasy story of such divergence to all that is commonly found within this competitive, popular (and rather overcrowded) genre! As fantastic main protagonist Ramsey set out to save her sister, unveil her past and discover herself…I could not help but be compulsively pulled along by such an addictive and intriguing multi-layered tale.
How many books are there about Elves? Certainly not many despite being a common creature within both high/ epic fantasy fiction and children’s literature! This was the main element that makes this incredibly exciting new series standout a mile from other books, and so I give sanction for you to behold something supremely singular.
I did not expect to be so overwhelmed by such a well-crafted and brilliantly realised storyline nor by the intensity within the extensive narrative. Not only did this dazzling debut exceed expectations but surpass them by the refreshing originality and avoidance of common clichés. Ramsey is a likeable heroine whom I instantly warmed to as she faced many difficult challenges along her path of self-discovery, and grew and developed into a strong individual. This undeniably addictive adventure will delight fans of fantasy both young and old, and so I cannot thank Markelle Grabo enough for providing me with an e-copy of “The Elf Girl” to read.
I eagerly await delving into book 2 with keen interest…
January 11, 2013
The Elf Girl was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest review and I want to take the opportunity to thank the author for providing me with a copy. I must say I that the blurb had me intrigued. I love a good fantasy and I was eager to dive right into this since I've never really read of anything with Elves in it, besides Tolkien's of course.
We begin the story with our main protagonist, fifteen year old, Ramsey. She is different in every way, both physically and emotionally. She feels "out of place" and can't seem to fit in and is always the butt of everyone's jokes. Then, one day, when she is visiting her local bookstore, she stumbles upon a book that sort of explains exactly who she is. From discovering this book, she soon realises that her feeling "different" was because she really isn't human after all, but in fact an Elf. An Elf, who must set out on a quest to save a sister she never knew she had.
I have to give credit to the author in creating this world and you can clearly see it come to life with all these amazing characters but I have to say, although it was a very interesting plot and had potential, it didn't grip me like I thought it would. I felt it didn't flow in some places and just when you think you were getting somewhere, you are left with no answers. Considering the length of the read, I thought we could of had some resolve but I totally understand why the author would want to wait it out till the next book…which author doesn't do that.
It's a good attempt for a debut novel and the fact the author is a teenager is remarkable. Fantasy may seem very easy to write but it isn't so I applaud the author's efforts.
We begin the story with our main protagonist, fifteen year old, Ramsey. She is different in every way, both physically and emotionally. She feels "out of place" and can't seem to fit in and is always the butt of everyone's jokes. Then, one day, when she is visiting her local bookstore, she stumbles upon a book that sort of explains exactly who she is. From discovering this book, she soon realises that her feeling "different" was because she really isn't human after all, but in fact an Elf. An Elf, who must set out on a quest to save a sister she never knew she had.
I have to give credit to the author in creating this world and you can clearly see it come to life with all these amazing characters but I have to say, although it was a very interesting plot and had potential, it didn't grip me like I thought it would. I felt it didn't flow in some places and just when you think you were getting somewhere, you are left with no answers. Considering the length of the read, I thought we could of had some resolve but I totally understand why the author would want to wait it out till the next book…which author doesn't do that.
It's a good attempt for a debut novel and the fact the author is a teenager is remarkable. Fantasy may seem very easy to write but it isn't so I applaud the author's efforts.
May 2, 2014
***I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.***
The Elf Girl follows the story of Ramsey Wilder. She is a teenager who has always felt out of place because of her pointy ears, which everyone made fun of. So, when she finds out that she is an elf, she is very happy that she finally found a place where she will blend in with others. But why is she taken to the Realm now, and not before? That's because she has a task to do.
I really, really enjoyed this book. I actually didn't expect it to be this good. I have to say, this was one big book. Yet I breezed through it. I honestly loved this book. This is my first book about Elves, and I was very excited to read it. It crossed my expectations. I can't wait to start the next book!
The plot is very intriguing and the execution also didn't disappoint. Though I felt that the chemistry between Ramsey and Stellan was kind of forced at first. There is also a lot of character development. I liked the side-characters a lot, which rarely happens. My favorite character has to be Brielle. I absolutely loved her. I really really want to know what is the deal with the Stranger.
Overall, awesome book. Like I said before, can't wait to start the next one!
The Elf Girl follows the story of Ramsey Wilder. She is a teenager who has always felt out of place because of her pointy ears, which everyone made fun of. So, when she finds out that she is an elf, she is very happy that she finally found a place where she will blend in with others. But why is she taken to the Realm now, and not before? That's because she has a task to do.
I really, really enjoyed this book. I actually didn't expect it to be this good. I have to say, this was one big book. Yet I breezed through it. I honestly loved this book. This is my first book about Elves, and I was very excited to read it. It crossed my expectations. I can't wait to start the next book!
The plot is very intriguing and the execution also didn't disappoint. Though I felt that the chemistry between Ramsey and Stellan was kind of forced at first. There is also a lot of character development. I liked the side-characters a lot, which rarely happens. My favorite character has to be Brielle. I absolutely loved her. I really really want to know what is the deal with the Stranger.
Overall, awesome book. Like I said before, can't wait to start the next one!
January 24, 2016
I want to thank the author for a copy of this book for my honest review.
This book was amazing. I was drawn into the story because of Ramsey's flash back to how her life as "Elf Girl " started. Yes kids can be cruel. This high fantasy was compelling and intense. Ramsey was a great character. Being thrown into the life she was Ramsey acted as you would expect a 15 year old to react lending her believability. Ramsey faced the changes in her life with courage. The supporting characters are well written and help the stories flow. The challenges that face Ramsey are both mysterious and adventurous.
Markelle Grabo is a young writer that grasps the genre with great energy. I felt the worlds she created was outstanding and I want and will read more. I felt like I was in the world created and I did not want to leave. This writer is compelling and amazing to read. I loved this story I can not praise this story enough.
April 27, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love worlds like these filled with excitement!! I love that it was about elves. I haven't read anything about elves, so I was greatly surprised how much I enjoyed this story!! The author had a very nice way of guiding us along the journey. Ramsley starts off not really knowing who she is exactly, she just knows and feels completely different from everyone else. Especially her family, not being able to explain the reasons why she has pointed ears. Which I found interesting, how she goes on that journey to discover what she really is. The way the author was able to maneuver the worlds was incredible. It allowed me to feel like I was actually right there along for the ride. Meeting the people and the places first hand. The characters were nicely established and well written. I enjoy them all. I enjoyed the read greatly!!
I love worlds like these filled with excitement!! I love that it was about elves. I haven't read anything about elves, so I was greatly surprised how much I enjoyed this story!! The author had a very nice way of guiding us along the journey. Ramsley starts off not really knowing who she is exactly, she just knows and feels completely different from everyone else. Especially her family, not being able to explain the reasons why she has pointed ears. Which I found interesting, how she goes on that journey to discover what she really is. The way the author was able to maneuver the worlds was incredible. It allowed me to feel like I was actually right there along for the ride. Meeting the people and the places first hand. The characters were nicely established and well written. I enjoy them all. I enjoyed the read greatly!!
January 3, 2013
An interesting read as I have not come across any books mainly about elves before. Being the first in a series, this book set up the world building and relationships and whilst it was not riveting at times, it was necessary. Sometimes I felt this did not flow in places but towards the end I was looking forward to finding out if Stellan had a chance or the gorgeous stranger was her number one pick. I will definitely pick up the next book to see who wins her hand.
Read
June 25, 2011I think this story would make for an exciting and visually appealing movie.
July 5, 2011
Ramsey Wilder, our fifteen year old main character has always known she's different....she just never envisioned just how different she'd turn out to be. One day on her semi regular trip to her local bookstore, Ramsey discovers a tome of a book that she's never seen the likes of...'The Mysterious Guide to Fantasy'. It may not sound eye popping to one and all but for a girl that likes a bit of magic in her life (like Ramsey) it's a match made in heaven.
But wait...ever since the moment she set eyes on the book, strange things have been happening. Like what you ask? Well, how about the girl at the checkout (Addison) knowing her name despite them never having met...or the personalization in the book directing her to a certain page having to do with elfens. No? Still not strange enough? Okay, how about when a tendril of WATER attacks her and a mysterious (and handsome) stranger barely manages to save her life? Yep...told you, strange things. They may seem out of the blue, but they're not when considering Ramsey's past and she's about to learn quite a bit in short order. Let's hope she catches up quick because their are lives, worlds even, at stake....including her own.
Now we begin the analysis since you have the back story...I'll be relatively brief. The story had A LOT of potential, it truly did and while I can't say I didn't like it (because I did), it fell short in a few areas for me. First, the story seemd to circle back in a repetitive cycle....outcast character, finds a place of belonging, crisis situation and repeat without a real sense of resolution. The scenary changed and magical aspects were introduced (some pretty clever ones too) but I could all too often foresee what was going to happen because of the repetitive formula.
Second and pretty much my last "grievance" of sorts was dealing with the secret. This could well be resolved in the next book of the series but it seemed like an awfully big part of the puzzle to well, "leave hanging" after 352 pages. I was rather exaspirated myself....but I digress.
I will definitely tip my hat to the author's ability to create a 3-dimensional world....especially for a first effort. You could really see the Realm take shape as you were reading, the good and the not so good. The characters were distinctive (love the little gnome) and their beauty will not go unnoticed...nor their fury when dealing with the fairies *shudders*. Even the relationships, both platonic and romantic are represented well and in good measure. Rest assured though their are emotional entanglements to deal with, that is NOT the heart of the story.
In my opinion, the heart of this story is Ramsey and her quest to find a place in this world (or the magic Realm) where she truly belongs. It's a story about accepting others for who they are not what they are, or rather what they look like, because in the end love is what matters. Love for oneself, love for others and love for the world around us. A recommended read for all ages as there is something for everyone in the story. Rest assured I'll be keeping an eye out for book two and hoping for a big reveal!
But wait...ever since the moment she set eyes on the book, strange things have been happening. Like what you ask? Well, how about the girl at the checkout (Addison) knowing her name despite them never having met...or the personalization in the book directing her to a certain page having to do with elfens. No? Still not strange enough? Okay, how about when a tendril of WATER attacks her and a mysterious (and handsome) stranger barely manages to save her life? Yep...told you, strange things. They may seem out of the blue, but they're not when considering Ramsey's past and she's about to learn quite a bit in short order. Let's hope she catches up quick because their are lives, worlds even, at stake....including her own.
Now we begin the analysis since you have the back story...I'll be relatively brief. The story had A LOT of potential, it truly did and while I can't say I didn't like it (because I did), it fell short in a few areas for me. First, the story seemd to circle back in a repetitive cycle....outcast character, finds a place of belonging, crisis situation and repeat without a real sense of resolution. The scenary changed and magical aspects were introduced (some pretty clever ones too) but I could all too often foresee what was going to happen because of the repetitive formula.
Second and pretty much my last "grievance" of sorts was dealing with the secret. This could well be resolved in the next book of the series but it seemed like an awfully big part of the puzzle to well, "leave hanging" after 352 pages. I was rather exaspirated myself....but I digress.
I will definitely tip my hat to the author's ability to create a 3-dimensional world....especially for a first effort. You could really see the Realm take shape as you were reading, the good and the not so good. The characters were distinctive (love the little gnome) and their beauty will not go unnoticed...nor their fury when dealing with the fairies *shudders*. Even the relationships, both platonic and romantic are represented well and in good measure. Rest assured though their are emotional entanglements to deal with, that is NOT the heart of the story.
In my opinion, the heart of this story is Ramsey and her quest to find a place in this world (or the magic Realm) where she truly belongs. It's a story about accepting others for who they are not what they are, or rather what they look like, because in the end love is what matters. Love for oneself, love for others and love for the world around us. A recommended read for all ages as there is something for everyone in the story. Rest assured I'll be keeping an eye out for book two and hoping for a big reveal!
August 14, 2014
**Received book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
**Beware! Does contain some spoilers!**
I have never read a book about elves and fairies before (I have not read any of The Hobbit or Lord of the Ring books), so for me this was a first time trying one out and I was highly impressed and thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Markelle Grabo did an excellent job in building a world where three realms collide: Human, Elf and Fairy. The world building throughout this book is detailed, intense and captivating. You will surely get sucked into the world. The writing was purely gold for me. It was an intense read because of all the details, but it definitely was smooth and easy to read.
This story follows fifteen year old Ramsey. She lives in the Human Realm in Wisconsin, with her family. She gets teased for having pointy ears and she doesn't understand why? She also realizes that she is extremely different from her family in looks. Things to start to go strange when she meets a young lady by the name of Addison, she gets attacked by water, saved by a random person and meets a handsome guy with the same ears. She soon learns she is different because she is in fact an elf or rather an elfen (female elf).
When she finds out her true identity and her real life, thanks to Addison, she decides to go to the Elf Realm in which she ventures out to save her real sister Zora from the Elemental Fairies (currently war between the Elves and Elemental Fairies), find out what her secret is and why the fairies want her dead over her secret that she knows nothing about. Along the way she makes new friends, falls in love and learns that she is finally home.
Throughout the book you have a bit of everything: romance, action, comedy, friendship, finding ones self and family struggles.
This book is definitely one of a kind!
Time for some information on what I enjoyed and didn't enjoy...**beware of spoilers...continue at own risk**
Highly suggest anyone looking for a good elf novel to check this book and the whole series out!
**Beware! Does contain some spoilers!**
I have never read a book about elves and fairies before (I have not read any of The Hobbit or Lord of the Ring books), so for me this was a first time trying one out and I was highly impressed and thoroughly enjoyed reading this. Markelle Grabo did an excellent job in building a world where three realms collide: Human, Elf and Fairy. The world building throughout this book is detailed, intense and captivating. You will surely get sucked into the world. The writing was purely gold for me. It was an intense read because of all the details, but it definitely was smooth and easy to read.
This story follows fifteen year old Ramsey. She lives in the Human Realm in Wisconsin, with her family. She gets teased for having pointy ears and she doesn't understand why? She also realizes that she is extremely different from her family in looks. Things to start to go strange when she meets a young lady by the name of Addison, she gets attacked by water, saved by a random person and meets a handsome guy with the same ears. She soon learns she is different because she is in fact an elf or rather an elfen (female elf).
When she finds out her true identity and her real life, thanks to Addison, she decides to go to the Elf Realm in which she ventures out to save her real sister Zora from the Elemental Fairies (currently war between the Elves and Elemental Fairies), find out what her secret is and why the fairies want her dead over her secret that she knows nothing about. Along the way she makes new friends, falls in love and learns that she is finally home.
Throughout the book you have a bit of everything: romance, action, comedy, friendship, finding ones self and family struggles.
This book is definitely one of a kind!
Time for some information on what I enjoyed and didn't enjoy...**beware of spoilers...continue at own risk**
Highly suggest anyone looking for a good elf novel to check this book and the whole series out!
June 19, 2011
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading this. I had never read about elves before and this was written by a teenager. Let me tell you I was pleasantly surprised. I really enjoyed it! I felt like I was reading a book by an author that had written many great books already.
The story starts out with Ramsey living in the Human Realm and wondering why she has pointy ears and is different than the rest of her family. She finds out when Addison and her brother Stellan tell her and take her back home to the Elf Realm. This is where the story really takes off from I thought. Ramsey gets settled and then starts to figure out how she can rescue her kidnapped sister Zora. What an incredible story this was. It was fantasy but I felt like I was in a small town walking around to the different shops and meeting people.
I loved the main characters as well as most of the others that Ramsey meets along the way. I thought the Queen was a wonderful down to earth person and I liked how she knows things. My other favorite was Mac, he is so cute and funny. I don't like Finn and I'm sure no one does. I don't want to give away an spoilers so I'm just going to say that I loved it. While some questions were answered by the end there are still many unanswered questions left. I'm guessing and hoping that there is a sequel to come soon. I have to know what happens next.
While this was my first book to read about Elves it won't be my last. This is the author's debut book and I am going to keep her on my list of favorite authors. I hope she continues to write, I can't wait to see what she has in store for the future.
This book was given to me by the author for review. This did not in any way affect my review.
The story starts out with Ramsey living in the Human Realm and wondering why she has pointy ears and is different than the rest of her family. She finds out when Addison and her brother Stellan tell her and take her back home to the Elf Realm. This is where the story really takes off from I thought. Ramsey gets settled and then starts to figure out how she can rescue her kidnapped sister Zora. What an incredible story this was. It was fantasy but I felt like I was in a small town walking around to the different shops and meeting people.
I loved the main characters as well as most of the others that Ramsey meets along the way. I thought the Queen was a wonderful down to earth person and I liked how she knows things. My other favorite was Mac, he is so cute and funny. I don't like Finn and I'm sure no one does. I don't want to give away an spoilers so I'm just going to say that I loved it. While some questions were answered by the end there are still many unanswered questions left. I'm guessing and hoping that there is a sequel to come soon. I have to know what happens next.
While this was my first book to read about Elves it won't be my last. This is the author's debut book and I am going to keep her on my list of favorite authors. I hope she continues to write, I can't wait to see what she has in store for the future.
This book was given to me by the author for review. This did not in any way affect my review.
July 2, 2015
The Elf Girl is a wonderful story about an elfin raised in the human realm. She learns that she has a sister Zara, who has been kidnapped by the Elemental fairies. It is up to her and her new friends to find and rescue Zara. In order to do so, Ramsey has to leave the only realm she has ever known to return to the Elf realm. There, she learns about the elves, fairies, and fae. She learns their customs, religion, and history. She does not, however, learn the BIG secret about herself and why she is so important to both the fairies and the elves.
Grabo does an excellent job of relaying elfin beliefs and culture to the reader. She paints beautiful images with her words. I could picture the beautiful scenery and unusual dress as I read. The characters are warm and extremely likeable. I look forward to reading Book 2. I am eager to find out what happens next.
Grabo does an excellent job of relaying elfin beliefs and culture to the reader. She paints beautiful images with her words. I could picture the beautiful scenery and unusual dress as I read. The characters are warm and extremely likeable. I look forward to reading Book 2. I am eager to find out what happens next.
April 20, 2014
This was a pretty good read. The world building and character creation were great, and the plot was very imaginative. I did feel though that there were times when the story seemed to drag a bit, and times when descriptions weren't as clear as they could have been. Also, I was a bit annoyed that with all the fuss that was made about the secret we didn't even get a hint as to what it might be by the end of the book. I understand that with this book being the first in a series some things need to be left unresolved, but I felt that with how important the secret was meant to be we should have found out what it was. All in all though, I did think the book was worth the read, and look forward to finding out what happens next.
September 20, 2012
I read the book when it first came out and just finished it again before reading the second one in the series. Great book! Loved it the second time around too. Markelle is an excellent writer and I am hooked! I usually will not read a new writer knowing it will be a awhile before the next book so I am hoping the second book is as good as the first so I can read it again in anticipation for the third. From what I hear from friends and reviews the second is just as good if not better then the first since we are brought deeper into the Realm.
July 27, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book was absolutely brilliant. The world that the author created was remarkable. The elf world was descriptive and I felt like I was a part of that world!
Ramsey is tormented in the human world where she grew up believing that she was human. The other kids humiliated her every chance they got. Her transition to the elf world was remarkable. This is where she started her journey to discover who she really is.
This book is awesome! Great book for YA readers!!
This book was absolutely brilliant. The world that the author created was remarkable. The elf world was descriptive and I felt like I was a part of that world!
Ramsey is tormented in the human world where she grew up believing that she was human. The other kids humiliated her every chance they got. Her transition to the elf world was remarkable. This is where she started her journey to discover who she really is.
This book is awesome! Great book for YA readers!!
April 24, 2014
Wow I just read through this book and the second and was blown away! The coming of age story of Ramsey,and her mysterious past leads her into a magical realm of elves! As a fantasy lover this book has all the elements that I would want if I were Ramsey. I wish I was magical, and had a family secret that was really cool. I had so much fun I am so glad I got the chance to read these books! And Hail to Wisconsin, because that's where I'm from! So maybe my own dreams are closer than I think.
November 7, 2012
This book is probably one of the best books i ever read!!! I couldn't put it down and i felt like i was in the story, going threw everything Ramsey was going threw. This book is a great way to escape reality and enter a world of fantasy:)
July 15, 2014
An interesting YA fantasy with a hint of romance, “The Elf Girl” is the first in this promising series.
Read full review in the 2014 June/July Double Issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 June/July Double Issue of InD’tale Magazine.
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August 5, 2013Really enjoyed this book! it's not your usual book and goes alot into the realms and elf history! the author has a great imagination! am defiantly reading book 2!!
November 2, 2018
Loved this first book
April 23, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Elf Girl is a creative and fun story about a young girl, Ramsey, who just doesn't fit in. She's used to being called a freak and ended up believing it herself, because she always had pointy elf ears. One night, she takes a stroll to the closest bookstore just to find an old-fashioned fantasy book and a new bookstore clerk, who happened to know her name. Finding this odd, it was nothing compared to what happened next. Walking home, she was grabbed by water and nearly drowned before a stranger came and saved her. After encountering the clerk from the bookstore, Addison, at school, she realized she might not exactly be human. Addison and her brother Stellan approached Ramsey to express that she's actually an elf from the Elf Realm who had a power that was only known to her elf family, and that the Elves were in a war with the fairies. It was enough for the fairies to want her dead. She soon realized that the fairies because of Ramsey’s secret kidnapped her real sister and Ramsey is the only one that can save her.
I want to start off and say I liked this story and it had a lot of potential. I did like the world-building. I loved how the author went into detail about the different kinds of elves, fairies, and other mythical creatures. It was creative and a fun adventure. However there were times when the author went on and on about nothing. I don't care about Ramsey's free afternoon. And the writing didn't flow for the most part and could be really choppy. When a story was being told within the story, it flowed well. It showed that author was only 17, but I couldn't do any better. And while the writing wasn't wonderful, she did write an intriguing and fun read. I was interested on how she was going to find her sister and finding out about this elf world. It was a lot of fun.
Another problem was that I just didn't like Ramsey. I felt she was whiny and a little brat quite often. She snapped and overreacted what seemed like all the time, over rather trivial things. And not to mention, the whole thing with Stellan was just…off. They didn't know each other and they were all gaga over each other. I'm not a fan of the insta-love. I will say that it's understandable for Ramsey to like him right away. He's cute and he's the first guy ever to show an interest in her. And also when Ramsey was all like 'i hate you' one minute and then 'I love you' the next made me face palm myself. I honestly could've done without the whole love story between the two. This is a story that doesn't need a love story with it.
I don't think the Stranger really added anything to the story. It just showed how naive Ramsey is. However, I'm curious where it's going to take them. If Stellan wasn't already a love interest, I wouldn't have cared as much. But I HATE love triangles and I just smell one coming.
Besides Ramsey, I liked the characters. I liked Addison, Stellan, Zora. Etc. They seemed to have good character development and I did feel like I knew all the characters, including Ramsey. Even though Stellan did something wrong, I think he was just a confused teenager, and is a pretty sweet person.
Overall, I liked the story. The writing could have been better, but the story makes up for it.
The Elf Girl is a creative and fun story about a young girl, Ramsey, who just doesn't fit in. She's used to being called a freak and ended up believing it herself, because she always had pointy elf ears. One night, she takes a stroll to the closest bookstore just to find an old-fashioned fantasy book and a new bookstore clerk, who happened to know her name. Finding this odd, it was nothing compared to what happened next. Walking home, she was grabbed by water and nearly drowned before a stranger came and saved her. After encountering the clerk from the bookstore, Addison, at school, she realized she might not exactly be human. Addison and her brother Stellan approached Ramsey to express that she's actually an elf from the Elf Realm who had a power that was only known to her elf family, and that the Elves were in a war with the fairies. It was enough for the fairies to want her dead. She soon realized that the fairies because of Ramsey’s secret kidnapped her real sister and Ramsey is the only one that can save her.
I want to start off and say I liked this story and it had a lot of potential. I did like the world-building. I loved how the author went into detail about the different kinds of elves, fairies, and other mythical creatures. It was creative and a fun adventure. However there were times when the author went on and on about nothing. I don't care about Ramsey's free afternoon. And the writing didn't flow for the most part and could be really choppy. When a story was being told within the story, it flowed well. It showed that author was only 17, but I couldn't do any better. And while the writing wasn't wonderful, she did write an intriguing and fun read. I was interested on how she was going to find her sister and finding out about this elf world. It was a lot of fun.
Another problem was that I just didn't like Ramsey. I felt she was whiny and a little brat quite often. She snapped and overreacted what seemed like all the time, over rather trivial things. And not to mention, the whole thing with Stellan was just…off. They didn't know each other and they were all gaga over each other. I'm not a fan of the insta-love. I will say that it's understandable for Ramsey to like him right away. He's cute and he's the first guy ever to show an interest in her. And also when Ramsey was all like 'i hate you' one minute and then 'I love you' the next made me face palm myself. I honestly could've done without the whole love story between the two. This is a story that doesn't need a love story with it.
I don't think the Stranger really added anything to the story. It just showed how naive Ramsey is. However, I'm curious where it's going to take them. If Stellan wasn't already a love interest, I wouldn't have cared as much. But I HATE love triangles and I just smell one coming.
Besides Ramsey, I liked the characters. I liked Addison, Stellan, Zora. Etc. They seemed to have good character development and I did feel like I knew all the characters, including Ramsey. Even though Stellan did something wrong, I think he was just a confused teenager, and is a pretty sweet person.
Overall, I liked the story. The writing could have been better, but the story makes up for it.
June 28, 2015
I really hate to give a negative review on any book but this one just didn't come together for me. I found it to be tedious and lacking in any of the magical qualities you would expect from this genre. I understand that it is written for a younger audience but I have read many stories that were still entertaining and worthwhile reads for all ages, despite this. It is sadly not the case with this book. The storyline is implausible. What 15 year old just walks away from the only family she has ever known when told, out of the clear blue, that she belongs in another realm? There is no dialogue or interaction to suggest the character has reached the end of her endurance for being what she labels as "different". It just feels like all the scenes in the Human realm are unfinished and set up to explain her departure without really laying a solid basis for her decision. Once she arrives in the Elf Realm, her main concerns seem to be making sure she has money and planning a trip to the jewelry store and a book store. This sounds like something a child would find important.
My first impression was that this story was written for a teenage girl, by a teenage girl and finding out at the end that this is exactly what has happened, makes sense now. I have to be honest, as I felt there was such a lack of connection. The story dragged on too long and the characters were forgettable at best. All in all, it was tedious and lacked spark, but as it was written by such a young author, I think there is potential for growth but would require that the author gain some life experience before writing about people with complex relationships and life commitments. For this reason, I have given 2 stars where I was only going to give one. It was a huge accomplishment for a teenager to write such a complex story and I have to commend the author for following through.
I received this eBook free through Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
My first impression was that this story was written for a teenage girl, by a teenage girl and finding out at the end that this is exactly what has happened, makes sense now. I have to be honest, as I felt there was such a lack of connection. The story dragged on too long and the characters were forgettable at best. All in all, it was tedious and lacked spark, but as it was written by such a young author, I think there is potential for growth but would require that the author gain some life experience before writing about people with complex relationships and life commitments. For this reason, I have given 2 stars where I was only going to give one. It was a huge accomplishment for a teenager to write such a complex story and I have to commend the author for following through.
I received this eBook free through Goodreads in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2016
The premise of this book intrigued me--a young girl who doesn't quite fit in learns her true place is a the Elf Realm where there is an ongoing war with the Element Fairies. What I didn't know is this novel was written by a high schooler. I gave the novel a chance. I did get through the novel. It was evident that the author lacked experience. The voice slipped from the main character, Ramsey, to the author's quite frequently and when is slipped it was very apparent the author was a high schooler.
"...so I went out to the hallway to get a drink of water at the bubbler. Yes, I called it a bubbler. I was from Wisconsin...need I say more?" page 25
In this one sentence, I was jarred out of the story. It was so unlike the main character to sound so snotty. She was nearly a loner who did her own thing and did her best to avoid conflict. Additionally, at no point in the first 25 pages had there been a mention of the location of the story.
My other complaint would be the vastness of the Universe Grabo created. Elves, five kinds (the novel says 4 on page 151) of fae (Golden, Element, Woodland, Butterfly and Flower) plus dryads, nymphs, pixies. There is even a short appearance of a gnome, Mac, and a mention of the mermaids and mermen. With so many different kinds of creatures floating around plus all the different powers the elves can have like sharing memories, teleportation, shape-shifting just to name a few, at times my head a reeling trying to follow it all. (Chapter 8)
I did finish the book. There was a hook. Ramsey has a secret. I read 352 pages only to learn the secret would not be revealed in this book. Ramsey gives up (page 352) despite the build up towards the end of the novel when someone other than Ramsey's sister, Zora, threatened to share Ramsey's secret with her.
Book was a Good Reads First Reads giveaway.
"...so I went out to the hallway to get a drink of water at the bubbler. Yes, I called it a bubbler. I was from Wisconsin...need I say more?" page 25
In this one sentence, I was jarred out of the story. It was so unlike the main character to sound so snotty. She was nearly a loner who did her own thing and did her best to avoid conflict. Additionally, at no point in the first 25 pages had there been a mention of the location of the story.
My other complaint would be the vastness of the Universe Grabo created. Elves, five kinds (the novel says 4 on page 151) of fae (Golden, Element, Woodland, Butterfly and Flower) plus dryads, nymphs, pixies. There is even a short appearance of a gnome, Mac, and a mention of the mermaids and mermen. With so many different kinds of creatures floating around plus all the different powers the elves can have like sharing memories, teleportation, shape-shifting just to name a few, at times my head a reeling trying to follow it all. (Chapter 8)
I did finish the book. There was a hook. Ramsey has a secret. I read 352 pages only to learn the secret would not be revealed in this book. Ramsey gives up (page 352) despite the build up towards the end of the novel when someone other than Ramsey's sister, Zora, threatened to share Ramsey's secret with her.
Book was a Good Reads First Reads giveaway.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2015
This was a bit of a struggle for me. I enjoyed the book….once I got half-way through it. It was a quick read over-all, I think it would have been one of those books that I just needed to set aside 3 or 4 hours and sat down and read the entire thing from start to finish. Briefly, I mean I read the first half over the course of 3 days, then finished the second half all in one. Talk about a roller coaster of emotions! Moving on!
I believe that the hardest part for me in this story was connecting with the characters. The entire story felt so rushed, I was surprised that our main character, Ramsey, didn’t collapse out of pure exhaustion! I did enjoy how completely our author created a world that could exist outside of our own and how she made them all coexist in some form….even if it was at war with each other. The disdain between the higher ups of the realms came through as very intense, but from looking through the eyes of Ramsey, these things seem so trivial and silly. Moving on to the other characters, I didn’t connect with them as well as I would until the second half, after the journey to the capital had started, Where I believe I connected most with Addison, who wasn’t the main character but seemed like a good peacekeeper. The added bonus of meeting characters like Mac also helped me get more and more into the book and I read the second half all the way through without break.
I don’t want to give away too much about the plot or exciting parts of the book, but I believe that this one is definitely worth a read.
I believe that the hardest part for me in this story was connecting with the characters. The entire story felt so rushed, I was surprised that our main character, Ramsey, didn’t collapse out of pure exhaustion! I did enjoy how completely our author created a world that could exist outside of our own and how she made them all coexist in some form….even if it was at war with each other. The disdain between the higher ups of the realms came through as very intense, but from looking through the eyes of Ramsey, these things seem so trivial and silly. Moving on to the other characters, I didn’t connect with them as well as I would until the second half, after the journey to the capital had started, Where I believe I connected most with Addison, who wasn’t the main character but seemed like a good peacekeeper. The added bonus of meeting characters like Mac also helped me get more and more into the book and I read the second half all the way through without break.
I don’t want to give away too much about the plot or exciting parts of the book, but I believe that this one is definitely worth a read.
July 5, 2015
The word building is spectacular but the actual story and character development is lacking. When describing the Realm I could envision everything and I loved the stories about all of the different creatures and their history. I soaked up every bit of it and loved it all.
When it came to the story though, I will just give a couple examples. Someone's life is in danger and the protagonist is taking long strolls to the fruit orchard and going on lunch dates. Right away she discovers a book that can help her open a trunk that she thinks probably holds the key to helping her rescue her sister. However, it takes her days to go back for the book and when they are finally heading off to begin the rescue mission, she remembers she forgot to try and open the trunk. She remarks that there's no time now. What? Now there's no time? After she just wasted a week doing nothing about it. When they made the decision to actually leave it's morning and they had a rough night so they decide they should wait another day so that they can leave well rested. I'm sure the girl being tortured to death would prefer they get going ASAP, I know I would be getting a move on. It was very frustrating.
I feel that the author has a great talent but could use some more writing classes and learn how to pull it all together as a whole. Normally when an author goes into deep descriptions my eyes glaze over but with this book I savored every word. She is very talented there. So please keep writing! I would love to read more in the future.
When it came to the story though, I will just give a couple examples. Someone's life is in danger and the protagonist is taking long strolls to the fruit orchard and going on lunch dates. Right away she discovers a book that can help her open a trunk that she thinks probably holds the key to helping her rescue her sister. However, it takes her days to go back for the book and when they are finally heading off to begin the rescue mission, she remembers she forgot to try and open the trunk. She remarks that there's no time now. What? Now there's no time? After she just wasted a week doing nothing about it. When they made the decision to actually leave it's morning and they had a rough night so they decide they should wait another day so that they can leave well rested. I'm sure the girl being tortured to death would prefer they get going ASAP, I know I would be getting a move on. It was very frustrating.
I feel that the author has a great talent but could use some more writing classes and learn how to pull it all together as a whole. Normally when an author goes into deep descriptions my eyes glaze over but with this book I savored every word. She is very talented there. So please keep writing! I would love to read more in the future.
July 9, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I gave this book 1.5 stars.
I wanted to like this book, I really did but it just made me feel weighed down and sleepy. First off, Ramsey is the most inconsistent character ever. She loves her family but finds out she has a new family and leaves the people who raised her with hardly a backwards glance. She thinks about this family once or twice but otherwise seems completely caught up in her new life and new family who she hasn't even met yet.
We spend the entire book knowing that Ramsey has a secret that not even she knows so of course we expect to get it out of Zora, nope.... Fall in love and start pretty seriously dating a guy you only met a few days ago, check. Be infamous in a realm you know nothing about, check. Talk with every stranger you run across in order to get random expose, check. Move around a lot but use the main character's curiosity to world build, check.
There was very little action in this book. The main premise was to move from scene to scene, location to location with different characters to inform the reader of how things work in the world. Not much of which I think we actually needed to know. I forced myself through this book.
I gave this book 1.5 stars.
I wanted to like this book, I really did but it just made me feel weighed down and sleepy. First off, Ramsey is the most inconsistent character ever. She loves her family but finds out she has a new family and leaves the people who raised her with hardly a backwards glance. She thinks about this family once or twice but otherwise seems completely caught up in her new life and new family who she hasn't even met yet.
We spend the entire book knowing that Ramsey has a secret that not even she knows so of course we expect to get it out of Zora, nope.... Fall in love and start pretty seriously dating a guy you only met a few days ago, check. Be infamous in a realm you know nothing about, check. Talk with every stranger you run across in order to get random expose, check. Move around a lot but use the main character's curiosity to world build, check.
There was very little action in this book. The main premise was to move from scene to scene, location to location with different characters to inform the reader of how things work in the world. Not much of which I think we actually needed to know. I forced myself through this book.
June 30, 2015
I was interested to read this book because mainly of the elf fanatasy theme.
While the Elf Girl has an interesting plot, I felt it was a bit scattered and the characters needed something more. Ramsey was quite a contradiction to herself. One minute she says something and the next she's against. Although I'll give her points for being brave even if she was a little reckless.
Throughout the whole book I was expecting at least to know even partially her secret but none. As in nothing even if her sister is there. Plus, it even feels like her sister won't be telling her the truth.
There's also an inkling of maybe a love triangle. I won't go into details but Ramsey is very contusing of her feelings. Like I mentioned a contradiction of herself.
The other characters need something more. It was just like reading them and I couldn't really connect to them.
It's expected to have the ending in a cliffhanger. I want to continue on reading this just to find out what her secret is and who she'll most likely end up with.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
While the Elf Girl has an interesting plot, I felt it was a bit scattered and the characters needed something more. Ramsey was quite a contradiction to herself. One minute she says something and the next she's against. Although I'll give her points for being brave even if she was a little reckless.
Throughout the whole book I was expecting at least to know even partially her secret but none. As in nothing even if her sister is there. Plus, it even feels like her sister won't be telling her the truth.
There's also an inkling of maybe a love triangle. I won't go into details but Ramsey is very contusing of her feelings. Like I mentioned a contradiction of herself.
The other characters need something more. It was just like reading them and I couldn't really connect to them.
It's expected to have the ending in a cliffhanger. I want to continue on reading this just to find out what her secret is and who she'll most likely end up with.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2015
I won this book (and shamefully forgot all about it last year)
The story had typos (boy did I run into some typos) but they weren't debilitating and by and large they didn't take away from the momentum of the story.
It was just one of those debut novel things that I have realized are par for the course.
The story itself was insight, albeit fairly predictable at points, and touching.
I was moved to almost tears at some junctures and I had a few "Awww" moments.
As with all fantasy, there were parts that were just plain weird and left me thinking "What the heck?"
And if you are looking for spoilers, I'm not giving any.. read it for yourself.
The story had typos (boy did I run into some typos) but they weren't debilitating and by and large they didn't take away from the momentum of the story.
It was just one of those debut novel things that I have realized are par for the course.
The story itself was insight, albeit fairly predictable at points, and touching.
I was moved to almost tears at some junctures and I had a few "Awww" moments.
As with all fantasy, there were parts that were just plain weird and left me thinking "What the heck?"
And if you are looking for spoilers, I'm not giving any.. read it for yourself.
February 24, 2016
This was a fun story to read. I just felt like some of the emotions were misplaced.
My Husband read this before I did, so I'm hoping he will be able to review this book as well.
I would definitely recommend this book to others looking for a fantasy title.
My Husband read this before I did, so I'm hoping he will be able to review this book as well.
I would definitely recommend this book to others looking for a fantasy title.
May 7, 2013
Too tired to give a review. Wiil do tomorrow! I can give a prereview...awesomesauce book!
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