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Bonfire Chronicles #1
Initiation
Welcome to Bonfire Academy! Set in the foothills of the alpine mountains in St.Moritz, this exclusive private school caters to a special kind of student. Enter at your own risk... but if you are human, you may not want to enter at all. WARNING: This YA story is set in a school for paranormals who are very different from normal human teens. Thus, the language and some scenes might not be appropriate for younger YA readers. Recommended for those sixteen and above.
412 pages, Paperback
First published November 23, 2011
About the author
Imogen Rose
27 books586 followersImogen Rose is the author of the bestselling series, Portal Chronicles, which has attained cult status within indie literature and become a favorite among teens and adults alike. An immunologist by profession, Dr. Rose published her first work of fiction in 2010. She now writes full time and is currently working on her second teen series, the Bonfire Chronicles. Imogen was born in Sweden and has lived in several places, counting London among her favorites. She moved to New Jersey in 2001. A self-confessed Hermès addict, Imogen freely admits to being obsessed with Kurt Cobain. She enjoys shopping, traveling, watching movies, and hanging out with her family, friends, and Chihuahua.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
March 4, 2012
Note: As this is a DNF, I'm not writing a detailed review, just stating why I didn't like it. For the same reason, this review will not appear on my blog.
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This was not what I was expecting. I was sure I would like it as I love books with boarding school settings and it sounded very intriguing. But I just wasn't interested in the characters, nor the plot.
I found the dialogue very hard to believe. The way The protagonist speaks is sometimes too formal, as well as always stating the obvious as if we didn't understand the reason for certain conversations. I also wasn't keen on the casual cheating on her boyfriend. Then she gets jealous when he cheats on her.
The plot itself is not particularly interesting. I couldn't get myself to finish it but up to 75% the whole plot was just finding and prosecuting the shifters who attacked Cordelia. Also, why wasn't anyone questioning how she didn't stay dead? Maybe this is common? Either way, It doesn't read like the first in a series at all. I was confused on a lot of details. I know this is a prequel to another series, but several reviews said it wasn't necessary to have read the other but I have to disagree.
I may give this another shot and finish it at another time when I'm in the mood for it, but at this time it's not holding my attention enough to care to finish.
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
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This was not what I was expecting. I was sure I would like it as I love books with boarding school settings and it sounded very intriguing. But I just wasn't interested in the characters, nor the plot.
I found the dialogue very hard to believe. The way The protagonist speaks is sometimes too formal, as well as always stating the obvious as if we didn't understand the reason for certain conversations. I also wasn't keen on the casual cheating on her boyfriend. Then she gets jealous when he cheats on her.
The plot itself is not particularly interesting. I couldn't get myself to finish it but up to 75% the whole plot was just finding and prosecuting the shifters who attacked Cordelia. Also, why wasn't anyone questioning how she didn't stay dead? Maybe this is common? Either way, It doesn't read like the first in a series at all. I was confused on a lot of details. I know this is a prequel to another series, but several reviews said it wasn't necessary to have read the other but I have to disagree.
I may give this another shot and finish it at another time when I'm in the mood for it, but at this time it's not holding my attention enough to care to finish.
--
For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
January 6, 2012
I have this little black book I carry everywhere in my purse, it’s small, tattered and to most people looks like it is filled with junk, but to me it’s important. See…a few years ago (ok…like 15) when I wrote my first book I strived to be just like everyone else. I thought conformity is what the world wanted, (an a-typical 3 part story with exactly 2 upsets and 1 very dramatic ending.) Then one day when I was curled up in a chair in the library I spotted (laying on the floor in a corner) this beautifully bound book with gold inlays and pages so old they looked as though they would crack when turning them. Curiosity obviously getting the best of me I picked it up. On the first page I saw this:
“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” – Herman Melville
That one phrase changed my life, AND my perception of what people expected. So I wrote it down, in a little black book, and put it in my purse.
Now, I can’t tell you exactly how many times I have read that 1 phrase since I wrote it down, but every time I read a book, and then bask in the brilliance of it’s originality I think of Herman and his wise advice. THEN…I think of the authors that exude this quality more than most.
Imogen Rose is one of these authors.
Synopsis:
“Set in the foothills of the alpine mountains in St.Moritz, this exclusive private school caters to a special kind of student. Enter at your own risk… but if you are human, you may not want to enter at all.”
There are, (and quite frankly always have been) a few prominent characteristics to Imogen’s writing that I go gaga over.
1. She (like I stated above) has this uncanny ability to create unique and often action packed plot lines. Yes, there are a fair share of paranormal “private school” series out there (For example the Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead) but Imogen always manages to find a way to make her’s stand out. This time (as with it’s predecessor Faustine) the school does not limit itself to paranormal “standards,” (1 race, 1 book) instead her world is as wide open as her imagination will allow; drawing from all aspects of the paranormal/occult world and mingling them into 1 very seamless thought.
2. She can write emotional entanglements like she herself is currently engaged in one. While most people focus solely on one angle of teenage “lust” or rather “angst,” Imogen explores the more rational side of the relationships as well (aka allowing her cast to admit their reservations and overall a-moral inhibitions and grow from them.) This alone enables us as readers to connect to the characters on a more personal level, AND do all of this while enjoying the push and pull of the always present teenage love triangle.
3. Though she may not realize it herself she is funny. Not slap stick, of course, (unless you consider a very nervous demon upchucking on a hot boy funny) but in more of a “wow…she is so totally cute with her wanna-be homespun slang” type of funny; other wise known as the word “hoot” (which for the record I think she uses about 400 times in this book.)
What about the concept of the book overall? Well…as per usual (because at this point if she writes “crap” I would be stunned and disappointed) it was spot on. (<– God I love that ridiculous British phrase.) I will be honest though, when I first heard that Imogen had opted for a “prequel” instead of a book 2 (Faustine being the 1st.) for her Bonfire Chronicles, I was a tad bit apprehensive. While I enjoy going back to the “roots” of a story and learning about a charachter’s past I was a tad concerned that she may have jumped the gun (considering most prequels don’t appear until several books into a series AFTER all of the characters have been feted out.) Again (which is becoming a horrible habit by the way) I was wrong and Imogen’s choice to show her “lady balls” and gamble with her timeline paid off. As a matter of fact, (though I thoroughly enjoy Faustine) I have to say I am much more excited about “Integration” (which is the NEXT book in this series) than I was about this one.
There is 1 thing however that I did NOT like (drum roll please cause you knew it was coming) the cover art. Though it makes sense (the emo black eye liner and the mountains in the background) there is just something about it that tickles the wrong toe. Is this a deal breaker? No, Imogen’s writing could stand up against a paper-bag, but that’s not to say that she won’t loose a few readers because of it. (Let’s just say it’s a good damn thing we all know how experienced of a writer she is.)
So do I think you should run right out and snag you a copy of this little ditty?
If you are a lover of YA, or any type of paranormal fantasy then yes, you will love it.
Do you have to read Faustine first to understand it?
No, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t read it as well. The two are very obviously meant to be read together so just save yourself the trouble and pick up both of them.
Well done Ms. Rose and congrats on another fantastic job.
Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: when in doubt, shout it out.
“It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” – Herman Melville
That one phrase changed my life, AND my perception of what people expected. So I wrote it down, in a little black book, and put it in my purse.
Now, I can’t tell you exactly how many times I have read that 1 phrase since I wrote it down, but every time I read a book, and then bask in the brilliance of it’s originality I think of Herman and his wise advice. THEN…I think of the authors that exude this quality more than most.
Imogen Rose is one of these authors.
Synopsis:
“Set in the foothills of the alpine mountains in St.Moritz, this exclusive private school caters to a special kind of student. Enter at your own risk… but if you are human, you may not want to enter at all.”
There are, (and quite frankly always have been) a few prominent characteristics to Imogen’s writing that I go gaga over.
1. She (like I stated above) has this uncanny ability to create unique and often action packed plot lines. Yes, there are a fair share of paranormal “private school” series out there (For example the Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead) but Imogen always manages to find a way to make her’s stand out. This time (as with it’s predecessor Faustine) the school does not limit itself to paranormal “standards,” (1 race, 1 book) instead her world is as wide open as her imagination will allow; drawing from all aspects of the paranormal/occult world and mingling them into 1 very seamless thought.
2. She can write emotional entanglements like she herself is currently engaged in one. While most people focus solely on one angle of teenage “lust” or rather “angst,” Imogen explores the more rational side of the relationships as well (aka allowing her cast to admit their reservations and overall a-moral inhibitions and grow from them.) This alone enables us as readers to connect to the characters on a more personal level, AND do all of this while enjoying the push and pull of the always present teenage love triangle.
3. Though she may not realize it herself she is funny. Not slap stick, of course, (unless you consider a very nervous demon upchucking on a hot boy funny) but in more of a “wow…she is so totally cute with her wanna-be homespun slang” type of funny; other wise known as the word “hoot” (which for the record I think she uses about 400 times in this book.)
What about the concept of the book overall? Well…as per usual (because at this point if she writes “crap” I would be stunned and disappointed) it was spot on. (<– God I love that ridiculous British phrase.) I will be honest though, when I first heard that Imogen had opted for a “prequel” instead of a book 2 (Faustine being the 1st.) for her Bonfire Chronicles, I was a tad bit apprehensive. While I enjoy going back to the “roots” of a story and learning about a charachter’s past I was a tad concerned that she may have jumped the gun (considering most prequels don’t appear until several books into a series AFTER all of the characters have been feted out.) Again (which is becoming a horrible habit by the way) I was wrong and Imogen’s choice to show her “lady balls” and gamble with her timeline paid off. As a matter of fact, (though I thoroughly enjoy Faustine) I have to say I am much more excited about “Integration” (which is the NEXT book in this series) than I was about this one.
There is 1 thing however that I did NOT like (drum roll please cause you knew it was coming) the cover art. Though it makes sense (the emo black eye liner and the mountains in the background) there is just something about it that tickles the wrong toe. Is this a deal breaker? No, Imogen’s writing could stand up against a paper-bag, but that’s not to say that she won’t loose a few readers because of it. (Let’s just say it’s a good damn thing we all know how experienced of a writer she is.)
So do I think you should run right out and snag you a copy of this little ditty?
If you are a lover of YA, or any type of paranormal fantasy then yes, you will love it.
Do you have to read Faustine first to understand it?
No, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t read it as well. The two are very obviously meant to be read together so just save yourself the trouble and pick up both of them.
Well done Ms. Rose and congrats on another fantastic job.
Happy reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: when in doubt, shout it out.
January 6, 2012
For someone that reads as much as I do, it’s nice (every once and a while) to settle in for the night with a nice familiar author; an author I KNOW can write an entertaining and captivating story; so when the opportunity presented itself to read “Faustine” the first book in the “Bonfire Chronicles” by the lovely Imogen Rose, I jumped at the chance to get my grubby little paws on it. I have never been shy with my adoration of Rose’s ability to connect with her readers through her work, so my continued appreciation for her new venture should come as no surprise.
Faustine is a demon. Well, ok, that’s not exactly accurate… Faustine is a half human/half demon hybrid princess who is about to be thrust into a very sticky situation. With her father’s sudden disappearance, Faustine, (though only 15,) finds herself with a very large pair of shoes to fill, and by large I mean people-are-being-slaughtered-and-it’s-her-duty-to-stop-it large. But finding a paranormal serial killer isn’t as easy as calling the cops. With (not only) her emotions, but her new advisors pulling her in 100 different directions Faustine finds herself on the brink of disaster. Can she find the killer before they harm anyone else? Who can she REALLY trust to keep her secrets, and at the end of the day will Faustine be able to keep it together or crumbled under the pressure of a whole culture of anxiety riddled paranormals?
There were (of course) a few things that annoyed me throughout this book, but first let me focus on the positive. #1. This book was REALLY good. I love paranormal adventures and “Faustine” had it all; action, intrigue, even a successful amount of angst shoved in for good measure. One better… Rose chose to expand her readers experience by leaving doors open. While most paranormal novels focus on 1 or 2 specific types of “creatures/humans” Rose opted for equal opportunity play time. There were demons, witches, warlocks, wanderers, vampires… blah ditty blah, chances are, if you’ve ever heard about them, they were in this book. And yes, yes.. I know what you are thinking, “Wouldn’t that make the book a little crowded?” Surprisingly…no! Rose’s plot was practically flawless, leaving no room for her characters to bump into each other or fight for control “inside” the development of the book.
Now, the bad. I know Imogen on a personal level, so for me… overlooking some of her idiosyncrasies aren’t an issue, however, for those of you that aren’t fluent in “Im Speak” you might find yourself rolling your eyes at her name dropping tendencies. For example: ” My feet were starting to ache in the five-inch Louboutins.” To me this says “Im found a new pair shoes she’s crazy about” to your everyday reader this sounds like blatant product placement. The other (very minor) issue I had was Rose’s lack of confidence in her readers ability to note sarcasm. On more than one occasion the word “not” was thrown at the end of a sentence to emphasis the previous statements ridiculousness, and on more than one occasion this was completely unnecessary. Thankfully, neither of these issues are deal breakers when it comes to the overall success of the novel, let’s just call them “nuggets of annoyingness.”
So, what did I think overall? Well.. duh, fantastic concept, fantastically executed, and a promising start to a new series.
Get it, Live it, Love it… pass it on!
Happy Reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: if you are 159 years old and plan on seducing someone, get a pedicure!
Faustine is a demon. Well, ok, that’s not exactly accurate… Faustine is a half human/half demon hybrid princess who is about to be thrust into a very sticky situation. With her father’s sudden disappearance, Faustine, (though only 15,) finds herself with a very large pair of shoes to fill, and by large I mean people-are-being-slaughtered-and-it’s-her-duty-to-stop-it large. But finding a paranormal serial killer isn’t as easy as calling the cops. With (not only) her emotions, but her new advisors pulling her in 100 different directions Faustine finds herself on the brink of disaster. Can she find the killer before they harm anyone else? Who can she REALLY trust to keep her secrets, and at the end of the day will Faustine be able to keep it together or crumbled under the pressure of a whole culture of anxiety riddled paranormals?
There were (of course) a few things that annoyed me throughout this book, but first let me focus on the positive. #1. This book was REALLY good. I love paranormal adventures and “Faustine” had it all; action, intrigue, even a successful amount of angst shoved in for good measure. One better… Rose chose to expand her readers experience by leaving doors open. While most paranormal novels focus on 1 or 2 specific types of “creatures/humans” Rose opted for equal opportunity play time. There were demons, witches, warlocks, wanderers, vampires… blah ditty blah, chances are, if you’ve ever heard about them, they were in this book. And yes, yes.. I know what you are thinking, “Wouldn’t that make the book a little crowded?” Surprisingly…no! Rose’s plot was practically flawless, leaving no room for her characters to bump into each other or fight for control “inside” the development of the book.
Now, the bad. I know Imogen on a personal level, so for me… overlooking some of her idiosyncrasies aren’t an issue, however, for those of you that aren’t fluent in “Im Speak” you might find yourself rolling your eyes at her name dropping tendencies. For example: ” My feet were starting to ache in the five-inch Louboutins.” To me this says “Im found a new pair shoes she’s crazy about” to your everyday reader this sounds like blatant product placement. The other (very minor) issue I had was Rose’s lack of confidence in her readers ability to note sarcasm. On more than one occasion the word “not” was thrown at the end of a sentence to emphasis the previous statements ridiculousness, and on more than one occasion this was completely unnecessary. Thankfully, neither of these issues are deal breakers when it comes to the overall success of the novel, let’s just call them “nuggets of annoyingness.”
So, what did I think overall? Well.. duh, fantastic concept, fantastically executed, and a promising start to a new series.
Get it, Live it, Love it… pass it on!
Happy Reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: if you are 159 years old and plan on seducing someone, get a pedicure!
March 25, 2012
First I have to say I absolutely loved this book, Imogen Rose is a fantastic author, the storyline and character descriptions were well written and she gave you enough information to get to know each of them, and fall in love with a few. Initiation was one of those novels you don’t put down and I definitely will be following this series.
Welcome to Bonfire Academy a school for supernatural’s...we first meet Cordelia who has decided to stay for a third year at Bonfire Academy so she could build up her skills and play tennis. Her first day back she is asked to go to the student president’s office for a meeting which is very unusual as the student president is normally kept a secret throughout the year, curiosity gets the better of her and she heads to the meeting. Here we meet Jagger; he asks Cordelia if she would be interested in becoming a mentor for a new initiate, Faustine who is half human and half demon. Cordelia wants to refuse but because of the unique situation she agrees. Cordelia and Faustine are both demon princesses and Cordelia realizes that because Faustine is half human this may put her in some difficult situations with so many other supernatural’s around the school.
This story is full of mystery, suspense and a fantastic love triangle. Quinn who is Cordelia long time boyfriend is kind, caring and you fall in love with his character. Jaggar also has great qualities and knows that Cordelia and he somehow ended up synced together. The feelings that occur when they are together are intense and it appears like they have mated. So besides Cordelai dealing or should I say not dealing with all that going on in her life she still has to mentor Faustine.
When Faustine and Cordelia are attacked and strange things happen, one Cordelia dies and Faustine disappears into thin air, thank god Jaggar saves Cordelia and they find Faustine fast asleep in bed. Unsure of what happened and who attacked them Cordelia knows she needs to protect Faustine and figure out what is going on.
This story is fantastic and all I can say is it’s a must read, great beginning to what I think is going to be a superb series. The story does not focus on a lot of romance it is more action, suspense and mystery mixed with some romance. The author did an amazing job giving us a wonderful story, great characters and I cannot wait to read book two. I would recommend Initiation to all my friends and anyone who loves paranormal novels.
Welcome to Bonfire Academy a school for supernatural’s...we first meet Cordelia who has decided to stay for a third year at Bonfire Academy so she could build up her skills and play tennis. Her first day back she is asked to go to the student president’s office for a meeting which is very unusual as the student president is normally kept a secret throughout the year, curiosity gets the better of her and she heads to the meeting. Here we meet Jagger; he asks Cordelia if she would be interested in becoming a mentor for a new initiate, Faustine who is half human and half demon. Cordelia wants to refuse but because of the unique situation she agrees. Cordelia and Faustine are both demon princesses and Cordelia realizes that because Faustine is half human this may put her in some difficult situations with so many other supernatural’s around the school.
This story is full of mystery, suspense and a fantastic love triangle. Quinn who is Cordelia long time boyfriend is kind, caring and you fall in love with his character. Jaggar also has great qualities and knows that Cordelia and he somehow ended up synced together. The feelings that occur when they are together are intense and it appears like they have mated. So besides Cordelai dealing or should I say not dealing with all that going on in her life she still has to mentor Faustine.
When Faustine and Cordelia are attacked and strange things happen, one Cordelia dies and Faustine disappears into thin air, thank god Jaggar saves Cordelia and they find Faustine fast asleep in bed. Unsure of what happened and who attacked them Cordelia knows she needs to protect Faustine and figure out what is going on.
This story is fantastic and all I can say is it’s a must read, great beginning to what I think is going to be a superb series. The story does not focus on a lot of romance it is more action, suspense and mystery mixed with some romance. The author did an amazing job giving us a wonderful story, great characters and I cannot wait to read book two. I would recommend Initiation to all my friends and anyone who loves paranormal novels.
June 1, 2012
This book is, alas, a mess. The plot is nonsensical, the setting is even worse (I'm trying to figure out how parents send their children to an academy where the student council holds "hearings" on their colleagues to determine their culpability after said colleagues attacked and tried to kill the hero), the mythos is... different but not in a good sense, and the romance was contrived at best.
I didn't like the heroine enough to care, I didn't enjoy her romantic double standards, and her attempts at feeling guilty for liking another guy that not her boyfriend left me uncaring as did the drama of her finding out he was boinking others on the side.
The storytelling and writing ability were also sub par.
Sorry. No, doesn't do it for me, and I don't plan on picking up this series again.
I didn't like the heroine enough to care, I didn't enjoy her romantic double standards, and her attempts at feeling guilty for liking another guy that not her boyfriend left me uncaring as did the drama of her finding out he was boinking others on the side.
The storytelling and writing ability were also sub par.
Sorry. No, doesn't do it for me, and I don't plan on picking up this series again.
March 3, 2011
Faustine Spencer may seem like every other Upper East Side socialite. She grew up with all the privileges that wealth affords – a nanny, doormen, car service, access to all the latest fashions and the opportunity to attend an exclusive boarding school.
But Bonfire Academy isn’t just your typical Swiss preparatory school where the well-to-do leave their children to a life of study, skiing and partying. And Faustine’s attendance isn’t optional.
At the age of fifteen, after three years apart from her family, learning everything she could from the Academy, she is allowed to return home to New York to her mother. Faustine just wants to pick up where she left off with her normal teenage lifestyle of school, shopping and hanging out with her best friend, Neave. But her return is conditional and failure to comply will have consequences.
Bonfire Academy has only three rules. One, you do not talk about the Academy. Two, you trust no one. And three, the most important of them all – never miss a meal.
***
Faustine is an elaborate, fast-paced paranormal mystery with a multitude of suspects and a “to be continued” ending. The story has a number of twists and turns and just when you think you’ve identified whodunit, think again.
While this book is just over three hundred pages, there is so much going on that it becomes difficult at times to keep up with what the many characters are up to, where they stand in the scheme of things, who they are and what Faustine’s opinion is of them.
There are an overwhelming number of key characters in this book, and with almost everyone a suspect with something to hide, and no one for Faustine to truly trust, the mystery becomes a bit muddled, as there just isn’t enough time to fully develop their characters and motivations. As the story continues there are more and more elements added into this mystery, more secret relationships discovered and more paranormal abilities attributed to each character than were initially known.
The action is virtually non-stop, so when the pace does slow to include some of the more normal events like attending school, relaxing or watching television, it doesn’t flow naturally. Even the relationship between Ryker and Faustine feels somewhat forced and in this book in the series no real explanation is given as to why the two who virtually had no contact in the three years they attended school are now an instant couple.
The complexities and pace aside, author Imogen Rose has created an engaging story with a slew of interesting characters. The author’s writing does flow, with brief touches of humor added in, and will keep you connected with the main character and the story as it progresses.
There are many characters still to meet, heredities to be determined, alliances to be uncovered and bad guys still to be caught.
And for those who haven’t yet read this book, you’ll soon find out just who Faustine really is.
On a personal note:
This is the first book I’ve read from author Imogen Rose. I own the first book in the Portal Chronicles but it is currently in my TBR pile. I’ve heard wonderful things about the series and the author so was excited to read this book.
It’s been difficult to write this review and even harder to write my personal opinion without giving away any spoilers, especially with the book teasing, “Who is Faustine?”
So, I’m trying to be as careful as possible, and if I’m vague it’s on purpose.
What I can say is that there is a lot that I liked about this story and some things I didn’t.
This was definitely an evenly balanced story of mystery and paranormal, which I liked.
Ryker is my favorite character. He’s very likable, helpful, supportive and oh so mysterious. Do I like him? Yes. Do I trust him? Not quite yet. We’ll see in the next book. But then again, I think no one is truly trustworthy in Faustine.
I also enjoyed that there were so many different characters with differing paranormal abilities and personalities. But with all the complex plot developments and changes, I would have liked to have seen more character development to go along with it. And I would have liked to see more development in the Faustine-Ryker relationship as they got very comfortable with one another very quickly when they had almost no interaction or dialogue in this book.
There were a lot of “surprise” revelations, which I didn’t like too much. There were times when some new piece of information was revealed that didn’t really have any build-up. It sort of came out of left-field but not in a shockingly surprising way, but more as if it was just thrown in to create a distraction or as a last-minute add-on.
I loved the elements of humor. I liked that Faustine was so temperamental, especially when she didn’t get her steak.
And I really do want to find out more, in the next book, about Taylor, Neave, Finch, Tessa, the twins, Audrey and Viola, Ryker, Faustine, and especially Faustine’s elusive sister, Kismet.
But Bonfire Academy isn’t just your typical Swiss preparatory school where the well-to-do leave their children to a life of study, skiing and partying. And Faustine’s attendance isn’t optional.
At the age of fifteen, after three years apart from her family, learning everything she could from the Academy, she is allowed to return home to New York to her mother. Faustine just wants to pick up where she left off with her normal teenage lifestyle of school, shopping and hanging out with her best friend, Neave. But her return is conditional and failure to comply will have consequences.
Bonfire Academy has only three rules. One, you do not talk about the Academy. Two, you trust no one. And three, the most important of them all – never miss a meal.
***
Faustine is an elaborate, fast-paced paranormal mystery with a multitude of suspects and a “to be continued” ending. The story has a number of twists and turns and just when you think you’ve identified whodunit, think again.
While this book is just over three hundred pages, there is so much going on that it becomes difficult at times to keep up with what the many characters are up to, where they stand in the scheme of things, who they are and what Faustine’s opinion is of them.
There are an overwhelming number of key characters in this book, and with almost everyone a suspect with something to hide, and no one for Faustine to truly trust, the mystery becomes a bit muddled, as there just isn’t enough time to fully develop their characters and motivations. As the story continues there are more and more elements added into this mystery, more secret relationships discovered and more paranormal abilities attributed to each character than were initially known.
The action is virtually non-stop, so when the pace does slow to include some of the more normal events like attending school, relaxing or watching television, it doesn’t flow naturally. Even the relationship between Ryker and Faustine feels somewhat forced and in this book in the series no real explanation is given as to why the two who virtually had no contact in the three years they attended school are now an instant couple.
The complexities and pace aside, author Imogen Rose has created an engaging story with a slew of interesting characters. The author’s writing does flow, with brief touches of humor added in, and will keep you connected with the main character and the story as it progresses.
There are many characters still to meet, heredities to be determined, alliances to be uncovered and bad guys still to be caught.
And for those who haven’t yet read this book, you’ll soon find out just who Faustine really is.
On a personal note:
This is the first book I’ve read from author Imogen Rose. I own the first book in the Portal Chronicles but it is currently in my TBR pile. I’ve heard wonderful things about the series and the author so was excited to read this book.
It’s been difficult to write this review and even harder to write my personal opinion without giving away any spoilers, especially with the book teasing, “Who is Faustine?”
So, I’m trying to be as careful as possible, and if I’m vague it’s on purpose.
What I can say is that there is a lot that I liked about this story and some things I didn’t.
This was definitely an evenly balanced story of mystery and paranormal, which I liked.
Ryker is my favorite character. He’s very likable, helpful, supportive and oh so mysterious. Do I like him? Yes. Do I trust him? Not quite yet. We’ll see in the next book. But then again, I think no one is truly trustworthy in Faustine.
I also enjoyed that there were so many different characters with differing paranormal abilities and personalities. But with all the complex plot developments and changes, I would have liked to have seen more character development to go along with it. And I would have liked to see more development in the Faustine-Ryker relationship as they got very comfortable with one another very quickly when they had almost no interaction or dialogue in this book.
There were a lot of “surprise” revelations, which I didn’t like too much. There were times when some new piece of information was revealed that didn’t really have any build-up. It sort of came out of left-field but not in a shockingly surprising way, but more as if it was just thrown in to create a distraction or as a last-minute add-on.
I loved the elements of humor. I liked that Faustine was so temperamental, especially when she didn’t get her steak.
And I really do want to find out more, in the next book, about Taylor, Neave, Finch, Tessa, the twins, Audrey and Viola, Ryker, Faustine, and especially Faustine’s elusive sister, Kismet.
February 28, 2011
I'm really going to try to write this without spoilers because fans of The Portal Chronicles will undoubtedly read this next series - The Bonfire Chronicles. Imogen Rose does not disappoint with the first book of this series. Her smooth and easy-flow writing continue with this book. I couldn't decide if I wanted to curl up with a glass of wine (err, orange juice, is it is YA afterall) or if I wanted to sit up in bed and read it quickly before I fell asleep. I did a bit of both, in the end :)
Her characters have depth, with a lot more room to grow in the coming books. But where the author shines is her ability to write a YA novel where I actually like the main characters. It's very rare that I don't want to smother the main characters and I kind of wanted to adopt Faustine. It's all very confusing because I keep looking for a character that I hate. I didn't even hate the bad guys all that much.
The cover art for this edition kind of grabs you. Who is the girl with the red eyes and what is her story? I will admit that her story was absolutely nothing like I thought it would be. To be brutally honest, I wasn't sure if Ms. Rose could pull it off. The Portal Chronicles were well done, but very niched. I thought if she stuck to what she knows, we'd be okay, but while the book first unfolded and we found out more about Faustine I was wondering how'd she pull it off. Well, she certainly pulled it off. The woman has a gift...
.... until I got to a certain part of the book. I don't want to give anything away, but a certain word in the book sent me running around to search my books from her first series. Imogen Rose is a genius... an evil genius. I just... oh, I want to say more, but you guys would hate me if I ruin it! Having said that, it's VERY small and you do NOT have to have read the first series to read this one. It was just a... thing.
The story itself is well written. The storyline unfolds with grace and and pace. The plot is well-thought-out and well-planned, but leaves enough room to add in a few surprises. I was shocked when I learned Faustine's secret. It came a bit out of left field, but a very pleasant surprise - I was folded in and felt invested in her life and what was going on around (and within) her.
I realize I'm not telling you much here, but I don't want to give anything away from the description (make sure you read it!). Just trust me... it's a great book and makes my "must read" for the year.
This book is recommended for for fans of Young Adult books and those who are looking for something easy and fun to read.
Her characters have depth, with a lot more room to grow in the coming books. But where the author shines is her ability to write a YA novel where I actually like the main characters. It's very rare that I don't want to smother the main characters and I kind of wanted to adopt Faustine. It's all very confusing because I keep looking for a character that I hate. I didn't even hate the bad guys all that much.
The cover art for this edition kind of grabs you. Who is the girl with the red eyes and what is her story? I will admit that her story was absolutely nothing like I thought it would be. To be brutally honest, I wasn't sure if Ms. Rose could pull it off. The Portal Chronicles were well done, but very niched. I thought if she stuck to what she knows, we'd be okay, but while the book first unfolded and we found out more about Faustine I was wondering how'd she pull it off. Well, she certainly pulled it off. The woman has a gift...
.... until I got to a certain part of the book. I don't want to give anything away, but a certain word in the book sent me running around to search my books from her first series. Imogen Rose is a genius... an evil genius. I just... oh, I want to say more, but you guys would hate me if I ruin it! Having said that, it's VERY small and you do NOT have to have read the first series to read this one. It was just a... thing.
The story itself is well written. The storyline unfolds with grace and and pace. The plot is well-thought-out and well-planned, but leaves enough room to add in a few surprises. I was shocked when I learned Faustine's secret. It came a bit out of left field, but a very pleasant surprise - I was folded in and felt invested in her life and what was going on around (and within) her.
I realize I'm not telling you much here, but I don't want to give anything away from the description (make sure you read it!). Just trust me... it's a great book and makes my "must read" for the year.
This book is recommended for for fans of Young Adult books and those who are looking for something easy and fun to read.
February 25, 2012
When I finished reading Initiation, the first realization I had of the novel is that it resembles Harry Potter in a lot of ways. It’s not the same as the epic HP series, but Initiation is a good novel in a very different way.
I can confidently say that the story’s original. There wasn’t a clear plot in the first place, it was until later on that I realized that the first plot was the real thing already. I hated this part of the novel. I will tell you why, I didn’t actually know what to expect in this book. The beginning, first and foremost, shocked the hell out of me. It started of normally (for a paranormal) then it’s like walking on a solid pavement, and suddenly you’re plummeting down the drain. I was really surprised when . You’ll understand this better when you’ve read the book. Anyway, moving on. Generally I liked the story plot but it gets confusing at times because it’s not clear which is the more pressing matter in the story: Cordelia’s death threat or Faustine’s developing powers. Personally, I didn’t think this made a very strong basic foundation for the series. I understand that there’s another series related to this one, but I’m reviewing without any knowledge about the other one.
Another thing I didn’t like was Cordelia’s indecisiveness. I understand she’s a demon and all, but her love life is really confusing. I hate girls who can’t just choose in the first place, and are too selfish to let the other go. I feel like there’s so much details missing in the book. Although I enjoyed the actions and the writing was really great, but I strongly feel something was still missing in the story. It didn’t have that certain umph I’m looking for in a Paranormal book.
Though this doesn’t go to my favorites section, but it was still a good read.
I can confidently say that the story’s original. There wasn’t a clear plot in the first place, it was until later on that I realized that the first plot was the real thing already. I hated this part of the novel. I will tell you why, I didn’t actually know what to expect in this book. The beginning, first and foremost, shocked the hell out of me. It started of normally (for a paranormal) then it’s like walking on a solid pavement, and suddenly you’re plummeting down the drain. I was really surprised when . You’ll understand this better when you’ve read the book. Anyway, moving on. Generally I liked the story plot but it gets confusing at times because it’s not clear which is the more pressing matter in the story: Cordelia’s death threat or Faustine’s developing powers. Personally, I didn’t think this made a very strong basic foundation for the series. I understand that there’s another series related to this one, but I’m reviewing without any knowledge about the other one.
Another thing I didn’t like was Cordelia’s indecisiveness. I understand she’s a demon and all, but her love life is really confusing. I hate girls who can’t just choose in the first place, and are too selfish to let the other go. I feel like there’s so much details missing in the book. Although I enjoyed the actions and the writing was really great, but I strongly feel something was still missing in the story. It didn’t have that certain umph I’m looking for in a Paranormal book.
Though this doesn’t go to my favorites section, but it was still a good read.
March 2, 2012
At first glance at the new cover for this book I was drawn in. The cover is just delightful.Initiation is a book about Bonfire Academy a school for aparanormals to learn about their abilities and hope to cope with them. The descritptions used to describe the school are so vivid they paint such a lovely visual for readers. The school sounds so enchanting and like such a beautiful place. We start off by meeting Cordelia who is a demon princess.Cordelia sucked me in right away because she is fearless and kick butt. She jumps right into the action headfirst to help a girl she is mentoring named Faustine. Faustine is apparently a demon/human hybrid princess who is there to learn about her powers. I liked her from the beginning too. She had such a cool personality and wasn't easily intimidatedby others eventhough she was in way over her head. She was able to hold her own. We also meet Jagger and Quinn who are both helping keep Faustine safe. Jagger strikes me as the more brooding strong silent type and Quinn is more like the boy next door type. I loved both boys for different reasons and will be waiting to see how it all plays out. This book had it all with the paranormal aspects, suspense, romance, and friendships. Its a great read and it was nice seeing the kids learning to deal with their abilities along with normal teenage hormones. This book has the potential to become a really good series and I have to say Imogen Rose has done it again. This book was captivating and kept me hooked from beginning to end.
May 12, 2017
What did I think do you ask?
I'm not going to go so far as to say this book was a terrible monstrosity; because unfortunately I have read a lot worse. But I could not finish this book. I can't even be subtle about this I just hated it.
By the way SPOILERS but to be honest there isn't much to spoil don't waste your time attempting to read this book (anybody who read it in it's entirety I tip my hat to you, as much as it is possible to tip a beanie anyway).
From the beginning I was already confused. You're immediately dumped into the middle of a Hogwarts/Hexbound scenario wherein the main character is in her final year. Normally whenever an author does this kind of thing; as long as she is able to perform literary acrobatics and make that shit work in way that makes me go "ahhh I see how you did that well played, well played indeed... >_>" then I don't mind.
But she throws us right in the deep end with syncopated heart rhythms, and making out with a random fairy dude who she's known for 5 minutes, and getting torn limb from limb until she apparently is a human/werewolf jigsaw yet still surving.
The thing I hated the most was that she was cheating on her boyfriend, the fairy guy was cheating on his girlfriend and somehow it was all okay and no big deal. That, is not cool and quite distateful.
Don't read it.
I'm not going to go so far as to say this book was a terrible monstrosity; because unfortunately I have read a lot worse. But I could not finish this book. I can't even be subtle about this I just hated it.
By the way SPOILERS but to be honest there isn't much to spoil don't waste your time attempting to read this book (anybody who read it in it's entirety I tip my hat to you, as much as it is possible to tip a beanie anyway).
From the beginning I was already confused. You're immediately dumped into the middle of a Hogwarts/Hexbound scenario wherein the main character is in her final year. Normally whenever an author does this kind of thing; as long as she is able to perform literary acrobatics and make that shit work in way that makes me go "ahhh I see how you did that well played, well played indeed... >_>" then I don't mind.
But she throws us right in the deep end with syncopated heart rhythms, and making out with a random fairy dude who she's known for 5 minutes, and getting torn limb from limb until she apparently is a human/werewolf jigsaw yet still surving.
The thing I hated the most was that she was cheating on her boyfriend, the fairy guy was cheating on his girlfriend and somehow it was all okay and no big deal. That, is not cool and quite distateful.
Don't read it.
September 25, 2012
Cordelia is a demon princess who is starting her third and final year at a private school for paranormals; The Bonfire Academy. Cordelia is expecting her last year to be easy with nothing to do except concentrating on Tennis and her boyfriend, Quinn, but the Student Council President has other ideas for her.
Cordelia is asked to mentor a half-human/half-demon twelve year old girl named Faustine, who is also a demon princess. After being attacked, Cordelia quickly realizes that her last year at the Bonfire Academy isn’t going to be as easy as she had hoped it would be.
I absolutely loved the characters in Initiation. The main character, Cordelia was really easy to like and a wonderful mentor to Faustine. Jagger is a total hottie and an absolute charmer. Faustine, although she is very young, she really speaks her mind and she really come into her own by the end of this book. I’m not really sure how I feel about Quinn, he seems too perfect.
Initiation had me hooked from the very beginning; it was a very fast read for me. There are a lot of ‘private school’ books out there but Initiation was very fresh and it has just enough action and mystery to keep your attention to the very last page. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one.
Cordelia is asked to mentor a half-human/half-demon twelve year old girl named Faustine, who is also a demon princess. After being attacked, Cordelia quickly realizes that her last year at the Bonfire Academy isn’t going to be as easy as she had hoped it would be.
I absolutely loved the characters in Initiation. The main character, Cordelia was really easy to like and a wonderful mentor to Faustine. Jagger is a total hottie and an absolute charmer. Faustine, although she is very young, she really speaks her mind and she really come into her own by the end of this book. I’m not really sure how I feel about Quinn, he seems too perfect.
Initiation had me hooked from the very beginning; it was a very fast read for me. There are a lot of ‘private school’ books out there but Initiation was very fresh and it has just enough action and mystery to keep your attention to the very last page. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one.
July 26, 2012
I don't about you guys but I am harbouring some SERIOUS LOVE for that cover!!!
.. Anyways, this book was just excilarating!
It was cool to see all these paranormals all in one book- witches, demons, vamps, shifters, wanderers and fay.. All of them!
I really liked the concept of synching however I must admit I didn't like how popular Faustine was when Cordelia was also a princess and daughter of the demon king of Paris. She didn't seem to get enough credit to me.
I love Jagger, Quinn, Jewel and Sienna! I'm not sure how about Ryker yet..
I must get started on the next installment right away ;D
.. Anyways, this book was just excilarating!
It was cool to see all these paranormals all in one book- witches, demons, vamps, shifters, wanderers and fay.. All of them!
I really liked the concept of synching however I must admit I didn't like how popular Faustine was when Cordelia was also a princess and daughter of the demon king of Paris. She didn't seem to get enough credit to me.
I love Jagger, Quinn, Jewel and Sienna! I'm not sure how about Ryker yet..
I must get started on the next installment right away ;D
January 17, 2012
Cordelia Hammer thought she was returning to Bonfire Academy for a year of improving her tennis game and spending time with her boyfriend Quinn. She chose to go back because she thought it would be easy, fun and relaxing.
She already learned everything the school had to teach her. She had the three rules of Bonfire Academy down cold. She knew how to control her abilities. And she knew just who to avoid.
But when she was ordered into Frau Schmelder’s office on her very first day and was told she was to be a mentor to the young daughter of one of the bigwig donors to the school, she knew any chance at having a relaxing year was over.
Because her new charge, Faustine, was not only one of the youngest students to attend Bonfire Academy, but she was human. Or at least partly human.
And being human was not exactly welcome at Bonfire Academy. It was not practical. And it was definitely not safe.
Making it through a week would be surprising. Making it through Initiation would be a miracle. But with her luck, Cordelia was just hoping they’d manage to survive even one day.
***
Initiation is the irresistibly addictive, action-packed first book in the new prequel series to The Bonfire Chronicles. With a plot that is filled with twists and turns, mystery and suspense, and danger lurking around every corner, this story will be unputdownable.
And with a wide variety of characters with some rather unique abilities and unpredictable natures, the tension at Bonfire Academy is palpable. An environment that can quickly turn chaotic in an instant keeps both the characters and readers on edge.
Cordelia Hammer has returned to Bonfire Academy for her third year, a voluntary year, to be close to her boyfriend Quinn and to improve her game of tennis. But that all changes when she meets the new student council president, Jagger.
Jagger is a mystery. Cordelia’s not exactly sure just what he is, not completely anyway. But because of Bonfire Academy’s three Golden Rules, she can’t ask. And when they form an instant bond she’s not sure whether to be upset or happy about it.
While she probably should be enraged, Jagger is gorgeous and she has bigger problems. She’s been asked to mentor a new student, Faustine, whose very nature – her human nature – is a risk to her and to Cordelia.
And when a seemingly unplanned attack turns out to be much more than that, Cordelia has even more to be worried about. Especially since Faustine seems to possess a skill that she doesn’t even know she has.
Author Imogen Rose has created an incredibly inventive story with Initiation, that combines all the tension and suspense of a mystery novel with the action and danger that have come to be expected in every book with a paranormal element. And the interesting characters, the labyrinthine plot, the quick pace and easy flow of the writing, will keep readers hooked.
Taking this series back to Bonfire Academy was a brilliant decision by the author. It gives readers a peek at just what life was like at Bonfire Academy prior to the events in The Bonfire Chronicles. It introduces them to Faustine at a younger age, gives them insight into some of the other characters’ abilities, and sets up the mystery and intrigue that surround Faustine long after she leaves the Academy.
Initiation can be read without having read Faustine. And in fact, the mystery will be even greater for those who opt to start the series with this prequel novel.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy paranormal stories with a twisty-turny plot, a mystery or two that need to be solved, characters that aren’t always to be trusted, enemies with hidden agendas and action that’s quick to devolve into chaos.
On a personal note:
I loved this first book in the prequel series to The Bonfire Chronicles. What an amazing start to this series. It was so easy to get caught up in the story and everything that was happening with, and to, the characters. The writing flowed beautifully and kept me engaged with all that was going on from beginning to end.
I also loved that the author decided to create a prequel series to tell the story of what happened at Bonfire Academy. I happen to be a huge fan of books set in boarding schools so when I heard that the author was doing a series set at Bonfire Academy I was ecstatic.
Especially since Bonfire Academy isn’t exactly a normal boarding school. Not even close. While it’s a school for the privileged, it’s not one you’d want to attend if you were human. Even those that aren’t don’t always have it easy.
And while I want to reveal just what types of students attend Bonfire Academy and just what chaos and mayhem goes on at that boarding school in the foothills of St. Moritz, I will keep my lips sealed. It is one of the Golden Rules after all. And I am not going to be the one to break that rule, or any of the other rules for that matter.
In fact, the school has three rules, the most important being to trust no one. And the author definitely created a story where nearly everyone was suspect. No one seemed particularly trustworthy, except maybe the main character, Cordelia. And even those you wanted to trust you couldn’t because of the school’s rules and the fact that the author made sure there was an air of secrecy behind each of her characters.
Cordelia was awesome. I loved being able to see the story through her eyes. She was definitely strong, confident but not overly arrogant, had a temper but didn’t go ballistic too often – unless provoked, of course – and was incredibly protective of Faustine even though she didn’t have to be.
And I loved, loved, loved Jagger. His immediate connection to Cordelia surprised me at the beginning and it took me a few pages to figure out just why, and how, they were connected, but I loved that the two characters had this connection. And I can’t wait to see what happens with that in the next installment. Especially since….
Nope, I’m not going to say. I’ve been purposely cryptic about just what Bonfire Academy is and what the characters are, so I’m not about to reveal anything more about the Cordelia, Jagger and Quinn situation. Anyway….
Where Jagger would definitely be the bad boy in this series, which is probably why I love him so much, Quinn would be the good boy. As Cordelia’s boyfriend, he’s pretty perfect, but of course because he is so perfect I can’t but help loving Jagger more.
And what surprised me most was that I even loved the young Faustine. She was just as entitled as I remember her, but as a twelve-year-old, and seeing her through Cordelia’s eyes, she showed a softer, more vulnerable side that I would never have imagined. She was even sweet at times.
There were two pretty big mysteries that were set into motion at the outset of this book. And there were a number of other smaller mysteries that were left up in the air at the story’s end to hopefully be revealed at some point later in the series. I was able to guess at one, but the motives for the other were completely hidden from me until they were revealed at the very end.
It’s not absolutely necessary to have read Faustine in order to fall in love with this book. I actually think that in some ways reading this book first would be even better because one of the two big mysteries would be a total mystery to those who hadn’t read that other book.
While this story doesn’t completely leave you hanging from a cliff, there are a number of things left up in the air that make you desperately want to get your hands on the next book immediately. Besides, after surviving a year at Bonfire Academy and making it through the Initiation who wouldn’t want to come back to start a second year and see if they make it through Integration?
I know I can’t wait to see what’s coming in Integration. And I hope it’s told from Cordelia’s point of view again. Though I wouldn’t mind seeing things from Jagger’s point of view.
She already learned everything the school had to teach her. She had the three rules of Bonfire Academy down cold. She knew how to control her abilities. And she knew just who to avoid.
But when she was ordered into Frau Schmelder’s office on her very first day and was told she was to be a mentor to the young daughter of one of the bigwig donors to the school, she knew any chance at having a relaxing year was over.
Because her new charge, Faustine, was not only one of the youngest students to attend Bonfire Academy, but she was human. Or at least partly human.
And being human was not exactly welcome at Bonfire Academy. It was not practical. And it was definitely not safe.
Making it through a week would be surprising. Making it through Initiation would be a miracle. But with her luck, Cordelia was just hoping they’d manage to survive even one day.
***
Initiation is the irresistibly addictive, action-packed first book in the new prequel series to The Bonfire Chronicles. With a plot that is filled with twists and turns, mystery and suspense, and danger lurking around every corner, this story will be unputdownable.
And with a wide variety of characters with some rather unique abilities and unpredictable natures, the tension at Bonfire Academy is palpable. An environment that can quickly turn chaotic in an instant keeps both the characters and readers on edge.
Cordelia Hammer has returned to Bonfire Academy for her third year, a voluntary year, to be close to her boyfriend Quinn and to improve her game of tennis. But that all changes when she meets the new student council president, Jagger.
Jagger is a mystery. Cordelia’s not exactly sure just what he is, not completely anyway. But because of Bonfire Academy’s three Golden Rules, she can’t ask. And when they form an instant bond she’s not sure whether to be upset or happy about it.
While she probably should be enraged, Jagger is gorgeous and she has bigger problems. She’s been asked to mentor a new student, Faustine, whose very nature – her human nature – is a risk to her and to Cordelia.
And when a seemingly unplanned attack turns out to be much more than that, Cordelia has even more to be worried about. Especially since Faustine seems to possess a skill that she doesn’t even know she has.
Author Imogen Rose has created an incredibly inventive story with Initiation, that combines all the tension and suspense of a mystery novel with the action and danger that have come to be expected in every book with a paranormal element. And the interesting characters, the labyrinthine plot, the quick pace and easy flow of the writing, will keep readers hooked.
Taking this series back to Bonfire Academy was a brilliant decision by the author. It gives readers a peek at just what life was like at Bonfire Academy prior to the events in The Bonfire Chronicles. It introduces them to Faustine at a younger age, gives them insight into some of the other characters’ abilities, and sets up the mystery and intrigue that surround Faustine long after she leaves the Academy.
Initiation can be read without having read Faustine. And in fact, the mystery will be even greater for those who opt to start the series with this prequel novel.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy paranormal stories with a twisty-turny plot, a mystery or two that need to be solved, characters that aren’t always to be trusted, enemies with hidden agendas and action that’s quick to devolve into chaos.
On a personal note:
I loved this first book in the prequel series to The Bonfire Chronicles. What an amazing start to this series. It was so easy to get caught up in the story and everything that was happening with, and to, the characters. The writing flowed beautifully and kept me engaged with all that was going on from beginning to end.
I also loved that the author decided to create a prequel series to tell the story of what happened at Bonfire Academy. I happen to be a huge fan of books set in boarding schools so when I heard that the author was doing a series set at Bonfire Academy I was ecstatic.
Especially since Bonfire Academy isn’t exactly a normal boarding school. Not even close. While it’s a school for the privileged, it’s not one you’d want to attend if you were human. Even those that aren’t don’t always have it easy.
And while I want to reveal just what types of students attend Bonfire Academy and just what chaos and mayhem goes on at that boarding school in the foothills of St. Moritz, I will keep my lips sealed. It is one of the Golden Rules after all. And I am not going to be the one to break that rule, or any of the other rules for that matter.
In fact, the school has three rules, the most important being to trust no one. And the author definitely created a story where nearly everyone was suspect. No one seemed particularly trustworthy, except maybe the main character, Cordelia. And even those you wanted to trust you couldn’t because of the school’s rules and the fact that the author made sure there was an air of secrecy behind each of her characters.
Cordelia was awesome. I loved being able to see the story through her eyes. She was definitely strong, confident but not overly arrogant, had a temper but didn’t go ballistic too often – unless provoked, of course – and was incredibly protective of Faustine even though she didn’t have to be.
And I loved, loved, loved Jagger. His immediate connection to Cordelia surprised me at the beginning and it took me a few pages to figure out just why, and how, they were connected, but I loved that the two characters had this connection. And I can’t wait to see what happens with that in the next installment. Especially since….
Nope, I’m not going to say. I’ve been purposely cryptic about just what Bonfire Academy is and what the characters are, so I’m not about to reveal anything more about the Cordelia, Jagger and Quinn situation. Anyway….
Where Jagger would definitely be the bad boy in this series, which is probably why I love him so much, Quinn would be the good boy. As Cordelia’s boyfriend, he’s pretty perfect, but of course because he is so perfect I can’t but help loving Jagger more.
And what surprised me most was that I even loved the young Faustine. She was just as entitled as I remember her, but as a twelve-year-old, and seeing her through Cordelia’s eyes, she showed a softer, more vulnerable side that I would never have imagined. She was even sweet at times.
There were two pretty big mysteries that were set into motion at the outset of this book. And there were a number of other smaller mysteries that were left up in the air at the story’s end to hopefully be revealed at some point later in the series. I was able to guess at one, but the motives for the other were completely hidden from me until they were revealed at the very end.
It’s not absolutely necessary to have read Faustine in order to fall in love with this book. I actually think that in some ways reading this book first would be even better because one of the two big mysteries would be a total mystery to those who hadn’t read that other book.
While this story doesn’t completely leave you hanging from a cliff, there are a number of things left up in the air that make you desperately want to get your hands on the next book immediately. Besides, after surviving a year at Bonfire Academy and making it through the Initiation who wouldn’t want to come back to start a second year and see if they make it through Integration?
I know I can’t wait to see what’s coming in Integration. And I hope it’s told from Cordelia’s point of view again. Though I wouldn’t mind seeing things from Jagger’s point of view.
March 9, 2012
As a book blogger I have a very hectic “book life”. My “To Be Read” pile is enormous. I wanted in this tour as soon as I saw it on the Bewitching Blog Tours site. Then I got the book, and paid it no mind until it was time to read. Then I opened it up on my kindle. Over 400 pages! My first thought was “oh no, what have I got myself into???” Seriously, I was worried.
And that was the most useless thought I’ve had in a very long time because – no joke – this book had me hooked from the very first page, and I barely put it down until I was finished. Less than 24 hours later (which includes work, some sleep, and a bit of time with my daughter) and I was done.
So lets start, eh? This is a super power / paranormal private school type book. But that’s about where the similarities to any other private school book end. Perhaps this book is YA, but it’s definitely on the higher end. There is violence and swearing, and there is some steam, but not outright steam. Got it?
Cordelia is a third year student at Bonfire Academy, which is an ultra posh paranormal prep school in Switzerland (interesting note – that’s where the author is from!). She isn’t required to attend this year, but she does so that she can focus on tennis a bit more. Because demons have interests outside of being well, demonic. That’s when Jagger, uber hot Student Council President fae, assigns her to a new student as a mentor. It should be easy, since both girls are demonic princesses. Yep, I told you it was an ultra posh school! The new student is Faustine, and she’s only 12. But she is rare in the fact that she is half human. The paranormal beings often procreate outside their own race, but hardly ever with us humans.
“My words were supposed to come out in a firm demonic growl, but instead, they slithered out in an unfortunate raspy whisper”
Then something happens between Jagger and Cordelia that is 1) totally unexpected, and 2) totally life changing. And I loved every minute of it!! If there is one thing I could wish for this book, or this series, is more Jagger and Cordelia!! Of course, Cordelia has a boyfriend, Quinn, but who cares?? He is clearly not the one for her. She needs to drop him like a hot demon potato and get with some hunky fae Student Council President action!
This book has a lot going on. You’ve got vampires, weres, shifters, demons, fae and even more. And here’s something great – they don’t all get along! And this creates a ton of drama and mystery at school. You expect that you can go to school and feel safe walking down the hallway, but at Bonfire, things are more than a little different!
Something else that I absolutely loved – when demons or shifters shift into their paranormal form, it doesn’t mean that they turn into some 7 foot beautiful demigod of a being. Nope. Some of them are downright ugly and repulsive. Perfect!! It was surprise after surprise in this book, and I love how Imogen Rose has not only bent the rules, she’s downright broken and rewrote them.
Cordelia, that poor girl haha. She really takes a beating in this book. I hope the rest of her life doesn’t go on like her third year at Bonfire, because she’s spent so much time in the infirmary she should get a personal room there! Anyhow, she is a wonderful character. She has heart and a conscience, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t a demon.
And there is a myriad of colorful characters to choose from. Mysterious Jagger, helpful Quinn, naïve Faustine, mile a minute Martha, and Ryker – another mystery. You will definitely not get bored reading this book, and I couldn’t recommend it any more than this! Read it! Love it! Come back here and tell me what you thought, cause I love to dish about my favorite books. And that’s where this book is going, my favorites list!
And that was the most useless thought I’ve had in a very long time because – no joke – this book had me hooked from the very first page, and I barely put it down until I was finished. Less than 24 hours later (which includes work, some sleep, and a bit of time with my daughter) and I was done.
So lets start, eh? This is a super power / paranormal private school type book. But that’s about where the similarities to any other private school book end. Perhaps this book is YA, but it’s definitely on the higher end. There is violence and swearing, and there is some steam, but not outright steam. Got it?
Cordelia is a third year student at Bonfire Academy, which is an ultra posh paranormal prep school in Switzerland (interesting note – that’s where the author is from!). She isn’t required to attend this year, but she does so that she can focus on tennis a bit more. Because demons have interests outside of being well, demonic. That’s when Jagger, uber hot Student Council President fae, assigns her to a new student as a mentor. It should be easy, since both girls are demonic princesses. Yep, I told you it was an ultra posh school! The new student is Faustine, and she’s only 12. But she is rare in the fact that she is half human. The paranormal beings often procreate outside their own race, but hardly ever with us humans.
“My words were supposed to come out in a firm demonic growl, but instead, they slithered out in an unfortunate raspy whisper”
Then something happens between Jagger and Cordelia that is 1) totally unexpected, and 2) totally life changing. And I loved every minute of it!! If there is one thing I could wish for this book, or this series, is more Jagger and Cordelia!! Of course, Cordelia has a boyfriend, Quinn, but who cares?? He is clearly not the one for her. She needs to drop him like a hot demon potato and get with some hunky fae Student Council President action!
This book has a lot going on. You’ve got vampires, weres, shifters, demons, fae and even more. And here’s something great – they don’t all get along! And this creates a ton of drama and mystery at school. You expect that you can go to school and feel safe walking down the hallway, but at Bonfire, things are more than a little different!
Something else that I absolutely loved – when demons or shifters shift into their paranormal form, it doesn’t mean that they turn into some 7 foot beautiful demigod of a being. Nope. Some of them are downright ugly and repulsive. Perfect!! It was surprise after surprise in this book, and I love how Imogen Rose has not only bent the rules, she’s downright broken and rewrote them.
Cordelia, that poor girl haha. She really takes a beating in this book. I hope the rest of her life doesn’t go on like her third year at Bonfire, because she’s spent so much time in the infirmary she should get a personal room there! Anyhow, she is a wonderful character. She has heart and a conscience, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t a demon.
And there is a myriad of colorful characters to choose from. Mysterious Jagger, helpful Quinn, naïve Faustine, mile a minute Martha, and Ryker – another mystery. You will definitely not get bored reading this book, and I couldn’t recommend it any more than this! Read it! Love it! Come back here and tell me what you thought, cause I love to dish about my favorite books. And that’s where this book is going, my favorites list!
December 3, 2011
Let me lay it out for you. This is a five star book. Period. Heck, I think nearly all of Imogen Rose's books are five stars in my eyes so far. It's kind of crazy. Did the author make a deal with the devil or something to get this level of pure talent or what? Or maybe one of these demons from this book? Hmmm...
So. I'm conflicted, confounded, confused... I'm something... about this book. I really liked Faustine, the first "book" in the series. I'll admit when I got this request for review (and then bought it because I loved it so much and wanted to share with others), I was really a little disappointed that she was putting out a prequel already. It seemed odd. I'm so used to those coming 2-3 books after a series is going.
My confliction (is that a word? No? I just made it up! YES!) comes from the fact that I think I liked Cordelia a whole heck of a lot more than Faustine (the character). I mean A LOT more. In fact, I'll say that there were a few times when I thought Faustine was just downright annoying in this particular book. I think that was because Cordelia comes off as such an amazing strong and deep character that she completely overshadowed everyone else she came into contact with - the good news is that this covers up those few times that I was on the Faustine-hate-train.
So, book 2 (errr... 3... err.. whatever) will be out eventually. Who do I want to read more of? Faustine or Cordelia? It's very confusing - you see my problem right? I SHOULD want to read more about Faustine, but right at this moment, two days after reading it, I could care less about that brat. Bring more Cordelia, baby!
Having said that, you absolutely do not have to have read Faustine to read this book. It will help because you'll have some clues, but it's not necessary. The writing is amazing, it flows off of the page easily. I read this on my Kindle and the formatting was absolutely gorgeous and the editing was amazing, impeccable even - so unheard of in the independent realm of publishing.
There's a bit of a warning written into the description and it's true, this is for the older set of YA, but ya know... I'd let my kids read it probably at the age of thirteen (I'm a very lenient parent, so maybe even earlier) - BUT it is a bit edgier. There's some sex (barely worth mentioning, if I'm being honest) and some cursing. But ya know... these kids had to grow up eventually, right?
I'll be honest, folks. I keep waiting for Imogen to write a bad book. I mean, it happens, right? I have yet to read an author that has written more than five or six books that I didn't dislike one of them. She is one of the YA authors to watch and I'm glad to have gotten to know her work before she gets all famous and writes that really bad book ;)
I wish I could say more... but really, just go buy it.
I recommend this for her fans, of course, but also for those of us that enjoy some good Young Adult fiction. This is well done YA. I'm considering making my book club read one of her books, actually.
So. I'm conflicted, confounded, confused... I'm something... about this book. I really liked Faustine, the first "book" in the series. I'll admit when I got this request for review (and then bought it because I loved it so much and wanted to share with others), I was really a little disappointed that she was putting out a prequel already. It seemed odd. I'm so used to those coming 2-3 books after a series is going.
My confliction (is that a word? No? I just made it up! YES!) comes from the fact that I think I liked Cordelia a whole heck of a lot more than Faustine (the character). I mean A LOT more. In fact, I'll say that there were a few times when I thought Faustine was just downright annoying in this particular book. I think that was because Cordelia comes off as such an amazing strong and deep character that she completely overshadowed everyone else she came into contact with - the good news is that this covers up those few times that I was on the Faustine-hate-train.
So, book 2 (errr... 3... err.. whatever) will be out eventually. Who do I want to read more of? Faustine or Cordelia? It's very confusing - you see my problem right? I SHOULD want to read more about Faustine, but right at this moment, two days after reading it, I could care less about that brat. Bring more Cordelia, baby!
Having said that, you absolutely do not have to have read Faustine to read this book. It will help because you'll have some clues, but it's not necessary. The writing is amazing, it flows off of the page easily. I read this on my Kindle and the formatting was absolutely gorgeous and the editing was amazing, impeccable even - so unheard of in the independent realm of publishing.
There's a bit of a warning written into the description and it's true, this is for the older set of YA, but ya know... I'd let my kids read it probably at the age of thirteen (I'm a very lenient parent, so maybe even earlier) - BUT it is a bit edgier. There's some sex (barely worth mentioning, if I'm being honest) and some cursing. But ya know... these kids had to grow up eventually, right?
I'll be honest, folks. I keep waiting for Imogen to write a bad book. I mean, it happens, right? I have yet to read an author that has written more than five or six books that I didn't dislike one of them. She is one of the YA authors to watch and I'm glad to have gotten to know her work before she gets all famous and writes that really bad book ;)
I wish I could say more... but really, just go buy it.
I recommend this for her fans, of course, but also for those of us that enjoy some good Young Adult fiction. This is well done YA. I'm considering making my book club read one of her books, actually.
August 16, 2012
Firstly, I absolutely love the cover. The piercing red eye is just so gorgeous and I can't seem to draw my eyes away from it!
I was completely hooked from the moment I read the very first page of Initiation. This is such a compelling and interesting read that it was simply impossible to put down once I'd started.
I loved how this was a really easy book to read. The words simply flowed off the page and it required very little effort to read this book. It's the sort of book that you fly through in a few hours without even realising that any time has passed at all. Some parts of the story weren't properly developed and I thought they were a little rushed but for the most part, this was a well structured and well written book with a really interesting plot line.
I was quite surprised by the story line for some reason. For starters, there are many more paranormal creatures than I imagined with faeries, shifters, demons, vampires, wanderers and witches. Some things that the characters do are completely unpredictable and surprising which I both like and dislike. I suppose this was because we don't really know the characters all that well yet and the academy's second golden rule: 'Trust no one', doesn't help when you're trying to figure out what everyone's up to. The action started pretty much from the beginning and continued all the way through. Some pretty gruesome things happened along the way which I was not expecting at all, but I like it when a book surprises me.
The chemistry between the characters is great and that really helped to cement this story. The majority of the characters are new to each other so they all had a certain air of mystery about them as we don't have any prior knowledge of any of them. My favourite character was Jagger because he just sounds so sexy. He has a really commanding presence and I love the way he is written in the novel. I find the character of Faustine a little annoying because I found Cordelia's love life far more interesting than Faustine's initiation, but that's probably just me.
One problem for me was that I liked too many of the characters. There was a sort of love square going on between Cordelia, Jagger, Quinn and Jewel and because I liked all of these characters I couldn't decide which team I was on. Another thing that bothered me was that because I liked all of these characters, it didn't really seem wrong to me that two of the characters were cheating on their girlfriend/boyfriend, when of course it was.
All in all, Initiation is a great paranormal book with lots of excitement and drama and I'd highly recommend it for fans of young adult paranormal romances! :)
I was completely hooked from the moment I read the very first page of Initiation. This is such a compelling and interesting read that it was simply impossible to put down once I'd started.
I loved how this was a really easy book to read. The words simply flowed off the page and it required very little effort to read this book. It's the sort of book that you fly through in a few hours without even realising that any time has passed at all. Some parts of the story weren't properly developed and I thought they were a little rushed but for the most part, this was a well structured and well written book with a really interesting plot line.
I was quite surprised by the story line for some reason. For starters, there are many more paranormal creatures than I imagined with faeries, shifters, demons, vampires, wanderers and witches. Some things that the characters do are completely unpredictable and surprising which I both like and dislike. I suppose this was because we don't really know the characters all that well yet and the academy's second golden rule: 'Trust no one', doesn't help when you're trying to figure out what everyone's up to. The action started pretty much from the beginning and continued all the way through. Some pretty gruesome things happened along the way which I was not expecting at all, but I like it when a book surprises me.
The chemistry between the characters is great and that really helped to cement this story. The majority of the characters are new to each other so they all had a certain air of mystery about them as we don't have any prior knowledge of any of them. My favourite character was Jagger because he just sounds so sexy. He has a really commanding presence and I love the way he is written in the novel. I find the character of Faustine a little annoying because I found Cordelia's love life far more interesting than Faustine's initiation, but that's probably just me.
One problem for me was that I liked too many of the characters. There was a sort of love square going on between Cordelia, Jagger, Quinn and Jewel and because I liked all of these characters I couldn't decide which team I was on. Another thing that bothered me was that because I liked all of these characters, it didn't really seem wrong to me that two of the characters were cheating on their girlfriend/boyfriend, when of course it was.
All in all, Initiation is a great paranormal book with lots of excitement and drama and I'd highly recommend it for fans of young adult paranormal romances! :)
October 11, 2012
Originally posted at OMFG!Books
The cover was the first thing that got me. I know, I know, don't judge a book by it's cover but sometimes it's really hard not to! The striking eye and the half face close up really suckered me in. I jumped at the chance to be able to review Initiation.
I was completely unaware that this was actually a prequel series to Imogen's first series - The Bonfire Chronicles - which apparently centers around Faustine, the demon-human hybrid that the main character in Initiation, Cordelia, is entrusted to mentor and protect. But I'm not going to get ahead of myself.
Initiation reels you in and hooks you from the very first line. Trust no one. Immediately I was captivated and I wanted to read and read and read until I was finished, but alas I had to work. I was immediately intrigued by the storyline. I am a sucker for any boarding school kind of story but especially the supernatural kind. I thought it was very interesting and original that there was more than two supernatural species that call the Academy home. There are demons, vampires, witches, shifters, and even hybrids. I wondered how Imogen was going to do it and she did a fantastic job.
I will say that Initiation is not for the squeamish. They are teenagers and they are supernatural. Regular human teenagers can be vulgar at the best of times but throw into that them being supernatural and there being animosity between some species and, well, hormones flying around, and that is a recipe for sex and violence, which there are plenty of in Initiation. While the sex isn't exactly described, it is still very much there.
Cordelia is a strong lead. She is a full blooded demon. She has good characterization but the one thing that bothered me about the book overall was the love triangle. While her and Jagger have off the charts chemistry I didn't like that she was a) hot and cold with him and b) cheating on her boyfriend Quinn. I understood that she was torn but the cheating thing just really rubbed me the wrong way. That said, I still really like her with Jagger.
There are plenty of great characters in this book besides Cordelia. There's Jagger, Quinn, Faustine, and many more. A way Imogen kept people on their toes was that if you're a student at the Academy, you cannot ask another paranormal what they are. That creates a lot of mystery and intrigue around characters.
Initiation is chock full of action, suspense, romance and all around bad-assery. If you're looking for a page turner that will keep you hooked, Initiation is the way to go!
The cover was the first thing that got me. I know, I know, don't judge a book by it's cover but sometimes it's really hard not to! The striking eye and the half face close up really suckered me in. I jumped at the chance to be able to review Initiation.
I was completely unaware that this was actually a prequel series to Imogen's first series - The Bonfire Chronicles - which apparently centers around Faustine, the demon-human hybrid that the main character in Initiation, Cordelia, is entrusted to mentor and protect. But I'm not going to get ahead of myself.
Initiation reels you in and hooks you from the very first line. Trust no one. Immediately I was captivated and I wanted to read and read and read until I was finished, but alas I had to work. I was immediately intrigued by the storyline. I am a sucker for any boarding school kind of story but especially the supernatural kind. I thought it was very interesting and original that there was more than two supernatural species that call the Academy home. There are demons, vampires, witches, shifters, and even hybrids. I wondered how Imogen was going to do it and she did a fantastic job.
I will say that Initiation is not for the squeamish. They are teenagers and they are supernatural. Regular human teenagers can be vulgar at the best of times but throw into that them being supernatural and there being animosity between some species and, well, hormones flying around, and that is a recipe for sex and violence, which there are plenty of in Initiation. While the sex isn't exactly described, it is still very much there.
Cordelia is a strong lead. She is a full blooded demon. She has good characterization but the one thing that bothered me about the book overall was the love triangle. While her and Jagger have off the charts chemistry I didn't like that she was a) hot and cold with him and b) cheating on her boyfriend Quinn. I understood that she was torn but the cheating thing just really rubbed me the wrong way. That said, I still really like her with Jagger.
There are plenty of great characters in this book besides Cordelia. There's Jagger, Quinn, Faustine, and many more. A way Imogen kept people on their toes was that if you're a student at the Academy, you cannot ask another paranormal what they are. That creates a lot of mystery and intrigue around characters.
Initiation is chock full of action, suspense, romance and all around bad-assery. If you're looking for a page turner that will keep you hooked, Initiation is the way to go!
August 24, 2012
This is my first read by Imogen even though I own several of her books, okay I think I own all of her books. I bought them after hearing so much about her talent as an author, something I always hesitate to do because lets face it, there is nothing more disappointing that getting all excited about a book or series or author and then finding out that the hype wasn't worth it.
All I have to say is that I am so glad I already own several of her books because if I didn't already, I would certainly be buying them all up now, in fact I plan on getting whichever ones I don't own (if there are any) as soon as I get done writing this review.
Yep, I loved this book and her writing that much.
I don't even know where to begin to describe this book other than to say if you like the Hex Hall series, H.P. Series, Vampire Academy Series and the Mythos Academy series you will love this book! Not saying her work is a copy of any of those, because it certainly isn't but it does have that same feel of greatness that those series hold.
Truly this was such a fun book to read. There is a little bit of everything in this one. Mystery, romance, more supernaturals than even I, lover of all paranormal, knew what to do with, twists and turns, action and just plan really good writing.
I couldn't help be swept up into the story and the lives of the characters. Cordelia, Faustine, Jagger, Quinn, really I loved them all. The secondary characters are just as fabulous as the main ones. In fact, it is really hard to pin down who my favorite actually is they are all that wonderful.
I know, I know, I sound a little fan girl, but I feel a little fan girl about this series. I can't believe it took me so incredibly long to pick up one of Ms. Rose's books. I mean, what it wrong with me?!
So if that little spiel up there wasn't enough to make you consider buying one of her book, then I don't know what will make you want too, seriously, what are you waiting for? Go buy it and read it now, any one of them, I;m not picky!
You won't be disappointed! Imogen Rose is an extremely talented author, this book will blow you away with its beautiful writing, engaging storyline, loveable characters and unforgettable uniqueness.
I very seldom give first books in series a 5 Stars rating but I feel like I would be doing this book (and the author) a huge injustice if I didn't so...5 Stars it is!
All I have to say is that I am so glad I already own several of her books because if I didn't already, I would certainly be buying them all up now, in fact I plan on getting whichever ones I don't own (if there are any) as soon as I get done writing this review.
Yep, I loved this book and her writing that much.
I don't even know where to begin to describe this book other than to say if you like the Hex Hall series, H.P. Series, Vampire Academy Series and the Mythos Academy series you will love this book! Not saying her work is a copy of any of those, because it certainly isn't but it does have that same feel of greatness that those series hold.
Truly this was such a fun book to read. There is a little bit of everything in this one. Mystery, romance, more supernaturals than even I, lover of all paranormal, knew what to do with, twists and turns, action and just plan really good writing.
I couldn't help be swept up into the story and the lives of the characters. Cordelia, Faustine, Jagger, Quinn, really I loved them all. The secondary characters are just as fabulous as the main ones. In fact, it is really hard to pin down who my favorite actually is they are all that wonderful.
I know, I know, I sound a little fan girl, but I feel a little fan girl about this series. I can't believe it took me so incredibly long to pick up one of Ms. Rose's books. I mean, what it wrong with me?!
So if that little spiel up there wasn't enough to make you consider buying one of her book, then I don't know what will make you want too, seriously, what are you waiting for? Go buy it and read it now, any one of them, I;m not picky!
You won't be disappointed! Imogen Rose is an extremely talented author, this book will blow you away with its beautiful writing, engaging storyline, loveable characters and unforgettable uniqueness.
I very seldom give first books in series a 5 Stars rating but I feel like I would be doing this book (and the author) a huge injustice if I didn't so...5 Stars it is!
March 6, 2012
This is another book that I simply could not put down. Oh and there is even a sort of love triangle, but I totally did not care!lol. That is unusual for me. If you love the sort of boarding school paranormal books you are in for a treat.
When we first met Cordelia I just was not sure if I was going to like her. But after a few pages I decided I really did. Once she has to mentor the young half demon half human girl she showed me a totally different person. She took her mentor duty seriously and even almost was killed for it.
This is one of those books there is just so much going on. Cordelia has a boyfriend but she also "synched" with another guy. This is where the love triangle came in, but it was nicely done that it never truly bothered me. Then there is also the fact that shifters tried to kill her the very first day back, the girl she is mentoring is a blood magnet to the vamps, and this was suppose to be her relaxing year.
We also have a story within the story Faustine (the girl Claudia is mentoring) well she is a half demon but anytime her demon side wants to take over she magically disappears and reappears with no knowledge how she got there. Then in comes Jaggers brother who is also just a huge bag of mystery.
So we have all these things going on and I was just hooked to the pages. I needed to see what was going to happen. I liked how this book was a YA book but with adult twists. I loved almost every second of it. The only thing I did not like was the ending. It seemed to end out of nowhere and it wasn't so much of a cliffhanger ending but it ended without getting to know a lot of things I wanted to know. It was still a fun ride and will be looking forward (or hoping) to see more of these characters!
When we first met Cordelia I just was not sure if I was going to like her. But after a few pages I decided I really did. Once she has to mentor the young half demon half human girl she showed me a totally different person. She took her mentor duty seriously and even almost was killed for it.
This is one of those books there is just so much going on. Cordelia has a boyfriend but she also "synched" with another guy. This is where the love triangle came in, but it was nicely done that it never truly bothered me. Then there is also the fact that shifters tried to kill her the very first day back, the girl she is mentoring is a blood magnet to the vamps, and this was suppose to be her relaxing year.
We also have a story within the story Faustine (the girl Claudia is mentoring) well she is a half demon but anytime her demon side wants to take over she magically disappears and reappears with no knowledge how she got there. Then in comes Jaggers brother who is also just a huge bag of mystery.
So we have all these things going on and I was just hooked to the pages. I needed to see what was going to happen. I liked how this book was a YA book but with adult twists. I loved almost every second of it. The only thing I did not like was the ending. It seemed to end out of nowhere and it wasn't so much of a cliffhanger ending but it ended without getting to know a lot of things I wanted to know. It was still a fun ride and will be looking forward (or hoping) to see more of these characters!
July 14, 2012
Imogen Rose is an absolute genius when it comes to writing in the supernatural genre. I'm sure of it. So far, I've not been disappointed by her. Ever.
Having read the Portal Chronicles (well, most of them, anyway) I fell in love with Ms. Rose's writing. I never expected that these two series would somehow be connected. And by connected, I should add that you don't have to have read one, to get the other. But, the connections are so subtle that only a really big fan of Ms. Rose's would be able to pick up on it and be so excited about it. (Yeah, that's me)
So, I totally and completely fell in love with Cordelia. She is probably now one of my favorite heroines. She's smart, feisty, loyal, but she's also so different from most of the other main characters out there.
As a Daemon, she's obviously got a set of morals that are...Um...Questionable. But, it makes sense for her character and I feel like as with so many other characters, we're not getting a view of the author's personality. We're getting a bona fide, original character.
The story is mainly just a prequel to Faustine. It's a way for the readers to get a peak at Faustine and how her life as a supernatural being began.
Poor Faustine has SO much to learn, when she first starts Bonfire Academy. And she has Cordelia there to guide her through it.
I'm absolutely anxious to read the next book, Integration.
So, check back here soon, for my stop on the Integration blog tour!
Christy @ Captivated Reading
Having read the Portal Chronicles (well, most of them, anyway) I fell in love with Ms. Rose's writing. I never expected that these two series would somehow be connected. And by connected, I should add that you don't have to have read one, to get the other. But, the connections are so subtle that only a really big fan of Ms. Rose's would be able to pick up on it and be so excited about it. (Yeah, that's me)
So, I totally and completely fell in love with Cordelia. She is probably now one of my favorite heroines. She's smart, feisty, loyal, but she's also so different from most of the other main characters out there.
As a Daemon, she's obviously got a set of morals that are...Um...Questionable. But, it makes sense for her character and I feel like as with so many other characters, we're not getting a view of the author's personality. We're getting a bona fide, original character.
The story is mainly just a prequel to Faustine. It's a way for the readers to get a peak at Faustine and how her life as a supernatural being began.
Poor Faustine has SO much to learn, when she first starts Bonfire Academy. And she has Cordelia there to guide her through it.
I'm absolutely anxious to read the next book, Integration.
So, check back here soon, for my stop on the Integration blog tour!
Christy @ Captivated Reading
Read
January 20, 2014Great read
I really enjoyed this book because it never really slowed down but just kept getting better. The characters each have their own voice, it's not just about one specific person. there is, of course, several characters who stand out. I rated it a 5 because it kept me hooked with the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading books with paranormal characters.
I really enjoyed this book because it never really slowed down but just kept getting better. The characters each have their own voice, it's not just about one specific person. there is, of course, several characters who stand out. I rated it a 5 because it kept me hooked with the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading books with paranormal characters.
February 16, 2012
Such a good storyline, and pretty neat to know that she's got a 2nd spin off series book out at the same time as this one, called Faustine. This story had you right at the beginning & it was a hard book to put down. Can't wait to read the 2nd of this series and the spin off book too!!! Love this author!!
February 29, 2012
I couldn't get enough of this book, the idea around it, and everything it was about! It was sooooo good! Paranormal fans are going to go insane when they read this cool tale, that is almost reminiscent of the Xmen school, but so much more.
I couldn't get enough of this book, and I loved the violent nature, which it was at times.
I couldn't get enough of this book, and I loved the violent nature, which it was at times.
February 6, 2015
Exciting roller coaster of a ride!
I was gifted this book by the author, & I have to tell you this is one I really enjoyed! It is full of excitement & action mixed with a little romance & plenty of comedy! I think these characters are awesome, & Cordelia is one demon I'd love to have on my side any day! Jagger's not too bad either! ;•)
I can't wait to read her next book!!!
I was gifted this book by the author, & I have to tell you this is one I really enjoyed! It is full of excitement & action mixed with a little romance & plenty of comedy! I think these characters are awesome, & Cordelia is one demon I'd love to have on my side any day! Jagger's not too bad either! ;•)
I can't wait to read her next book!!!
September 2, 2012
Very much like vampire Academy. I enjoyed the book and the characters. Heading to read #2 now.
March 31, 2013
Impresionante! En breve estará lista y disponible en Español.
Esta serie es genial, es fresca, MUY original y absolutamente atrapante.
100% recomendada para YA lectores
Esta serie es genial, es fresca, MUY original y absolutamente atrapante.
100% recomendada para YA lectores
May 14, 2014
I love it...I love this whole series...on to the next...
July 5, 2017
Cordelia is an interesting character, a little self absorbed at times, she is in the middle of a love triangle. she develops a lot throughout this book and grows in her maturity as a character as time goes on. Jagger well I'm in <3, hes a bad boy who wants to claim Cordelia?
Fav Quote:
"Speaking of energy, i could feel the surges from Jagger. He was being very quiet, but his knee rested casually against mine, and he was dominating my personal space. I slipped my right arm down and slid my fingers through his, without turning to look at him."
A good paranormal YA book, certainly need to read the rest of the series.
Fav Quote:
"Speaking of energy, i could feel the surges from Jagger. He was being very quiet, but his knee rested casually against mine, and he was dominating my personal space. I slipped my right arm down and slid my fingers through his, without turning to look at him."
A good paranormal YA book, certainly need to read the rest of the series.
May 24, 2018
I truly enjoyed the beginning of bonfire series. However, the beginning of book one seemed as if I started some what smacked in the middle of the story.
I am still unaware of Mason's resaosn for trying to kill Cordelia. And she need to dump her current boyfriend and stop stringing him along since she synced with someone else.
I am still unaware of Mason's resaosn for trying to kill Cordelia. And she need to dump her current boyfriend and stop stringing him along since she synced with someone else.
July 30, 2018
Great story
I love paranormal fiction, and I like that Imogen includes different types in this book. I loved the entire book series so much that I am reading the books again for the 2nd time so far. It has been a couple years since I read this series, but I enjoyed reading this book as much as the first time.
I love paranormal fiction, and I like that Imogen includes different types in this book. I loved the entire book series so much that I am reading the books again for the 2nd time so far. It has been a couple years since I read this series, but I enjoyed reading this book as much as the first time.
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