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Unbidden Magic #4
Shadow Moon
Allie Emerson is hoping for a few quiet months to catch her breath after a summer that included the discovery she is not only a twin and of faery blood, but also destined to play a pivotal role in faery world. School has barely begun when Allie must kiss her hope of a normal year goodbye.
She can't escape her unfinished business with the fae, the Trimarks, or Junior Martinez, who is making it clear he plans to win her back. Signs, portents and whispers are pushing Allie to "find the girl" before it's too late. Hoping her twin can help her solve the riddle of their destiny, Allie uncovers old secrets and begins a cross-country journey that puts her in more danger than ever before. If she succeeds, she may just find the answers that can save everyone she loves.
Marilee Brothers is a former high school teacher turned full-time author. She married her college crush, and they have three sons. Marilee lives in Washington State, where she's hard at work on the next book in the Unbidden Magic series. MarileeBrothers.com
She can't escape her unfinished business with the fae, the Trimarks, or Junior Martinez, who is making it clear he plans to win her back. Signs, portents and whispers are pushing Allie to "find the girl" before it's too late. Hoping her twin can help her solve the riddle of their destiny, Allie uncovers old secrets and begins a cross-country journey that puts her in more danger than ever before. If she succeeds, she may just find the answers that can save everyone she loves.
Marilee Brothers is a former high school teacher turned full-time author. She married her college crush, and they have three sons. Marilee lives in Washington State, where she's hard at work on the next book in the Unbidden Magic series. MarileeBrothers.com
230 pages
First published November 1, 2011
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297 people want to read
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March 7, 2015
I thought Moon Spun was full of adventure and excitement then I moved on to Shadow Moon. The added mix of danger from our own government added to mix of already supernatural danger and Brothers’ play on government conspiracies was an expected yet unexpected, twist. What was once thought to be story filler tuned into full blown storyline. I can’t think of one thing I didn’t like about the newest installment other than it ended on cliff hanger that has me wanting to hunt down the author and beg for ARC of next installment.
The plot is so engrossing you can’t look away. Allie after finding out she has a twin, also has a evil looking fae who pops in and out at the oddest times. She has an encounter with a fae posing as a preacher who has evil motives at Kizzy’s. While checking him out she meets Sammie who she has a psychic connection to. Allie also gets suspended from school right before the holiday. Though she is vindicated in the by none other than Nicole it opens the path for her to search for her sister. Along for the ride is none other than Junior, Faye and Sammie. What started out as a mission to find her twin and save the world, ends in fight for her life and Sammie’s’?
I was a little disappointed again that Beck didn’t get much page time other than a phone call here and there. Yet I was also glad; it was one relationship I didn’t see working out with succubus side.
Where in the past Junior had lost favor with me he gained a lot in this installment. I expect to see the relationship between Junior and Allie blossom in the coming installments.
We didn’t see much of Ryker in this installment either. His love talker side leads me to think there may be some kin between him and Beck. The two sides seem so close. However in the end his hawk feather comes through.
We are introduced to Sammie, although she has a connection to Allie when they first meet it is not until the very end they both realize how close that connection truly is.
My final thoughts, it you haven’t already began to read the series… it’s never too late to start. There is a little something for everyone. I can’t wait to see wt Brothers’ weaves together next for Allie and her band of merry misfits.
Disclosure: I participate in reviews with Netgalley and an e-copy was provided to me by Netgalley and/or the publishers. No payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was not any obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist, or the readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
The plot is so engrossing you can’t look away. Allie after finding out she has a twin, also has a evil looking fae who pops in and out at the oddest times. She has an encounter with a fae posing as a preacher who has evil motives at Kizzy’s. While checking him out she meets Sammie who she has a psychic connection to. Allie also gets suspended from school right before the holiday. Though she is vindicated in the by none other than Nicole it opens the path for her to search for her sister. Along for the ride is none other than Junior, Faye and Sammie. What started out as a mission to find her twin and save the world, ends in fight for her life and Sammie’s’?
I was a little disappointed again that Beck didn’t get much page time other than a phone call here and there. Yet I was also glad; it was one relationship I didn’t see working out with succubus side.
Where in the past Junior had lost favor with me he gained a lot in this installment. I expect to see the relationship between Junior and Allie blossom in the coming installments.
We didn’t see much of Ryker in this installment either. His love talker side leads me to think there may be some kin between him and Beck. The two sides seem so close. However in the end his hawk feather comes through.
We are introduced to Sammie, although she has a connection to Allie when they first meet it is not until the very end they both realize how close that connection truly is.
My final thoughts, it you haven’t already began to read the series… it’s never too late to start. There is a little something for everyone. I can’t wait to see wt Brothers’ weaves together next for Allie and her band of merry misfits.
Disclosure: I participate in reviews with Netgalley and an e-copy was provided to me by Netgalley and/or the publishers. No payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was not any obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist, or the readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
August 8, 2012
The final book from the Moonstone bundle. It was better than Moon Spun, because it actually made some sense. But still, it could've been improved.
I didn't really like the constant repeating what had happened in the previous installments every time a character's name was mentioned. Sometimes that was done every time a character was mentioned, and it really got me rolling my eyes.
But there was lots of Junior, new mysteries, and finally there was some moving forward. We weren't stuck in faery land anymore, but we were exploring Allie's world along with her. I liked the motion and the new things that got revealed along the way.
I kind of got freaked out at the appearance of that Jessy dude (or however his name was spelled), and he honestly annoyed me. But it was a nice reality check - that one shouldn't believe in everything one hears and sees.
And the new girl, Sammie, appeared in just the right moment. I was sure who she was almost from the beginning, and was glad to see that I was right.
I enjoyed the book, it was a quick light read that had me occupied for a little while. I recommend it to the 14-17 year old girl audience. I think they'd love Allie's voice and her strong willed character.
I didn't really like the constant repeating what had happened in the previous installments every time a character's name was mentioned. Sometimes that was done every time a character was mentioned, and it really got me rolling my eyes.
But there was lots of Junior, new mysteries, and finally there was some moving forward. We weren't stuck in faery land anymore, but we were exploring Allie's world along with her. I liked the motion and the new things that got revealed along the way.
I kind of got freaked out at the appearance of that Jessy dude (or however his name was spelled), and he honestly annoyed me. But it was a nice reality check - that one shouldn't believe in everything one hears and sees.
And the new girl, Sammie, appeared in just the right moment. I was sure who she was almost from the beginning, and was glad to see that I was right.
I enjoyed the book, it was a quick light read that had me occupied for a little while. I recommend it to the 14-17 year old girl audience. I think they'd love Allie's voice and her strong willed character.
May 8, 2012
I received the first 4 books of the Unbidden Magic series from NetGalley (thanks NetGalley!) as a nice tidy bundle, and I have to say that if they weren't in a bundle I probably wouldn't have continued on to the second book. Here's a little peek at my thoughts on each of the books in the series:
All in all, I think teen girls interested in paranormal stuff would find this series intriguing. It's clean, with just a hint of romance. It has a sarcastic, strong heroine and ultimately draws you in with the action. So, with that said, I'll be waiting for book number 5 to come out so that I can find out how this all ends.
All in all, I think teen girls interested in paranormal stuff would find this series intriguing. It's clean, with just a hint of romance. It has a sarcastic, strong heroine and ultimately draws you in with the action. So, with that said, I'll be waiting for book number 5 to come out so that I can find out how this all ends.
March 4, 2012
This is going to be a review of the first four books.
Okay so, this series started out with a lot of promise. It was an interesting concept with a tough, relate-able lead. The first books was full of potential. The writing was smooth, the characters were interesting and the plot was exciting. The only problems were slightly one-dimensional characters (Junior and Allie's two friends were very flat; they seemed to serve very little real purpose.) and a somewhat predictable plot (It follows the format of just about every other YA book and the magic involved wasn't as featured as I thought it would be.) But these problems didn't ruin the book. It was still a fun read.
Book two was better. We got to know the characters better. The writing had improved and the plot became more unique.
Then came book three...I'm not sure why the author tried to cram in so many forms of mythology together, but it got a little bizarre. That plus that addition of a third "love interest" made the third book a bit of a let down.
And finally the forth book. Okay, so if book 3 was the overuse of mythology, book 4 was the absence. I felt like nothing significant happened until the final chapter.
The series as a whole:
The Unbidden magic series started off good. Just good. The characters were a little flat and the plot a little predictable, but overall I liked the series in the beginning. When a second love interest was brought in, I was fine with that, especially because it came in conjunction with an explanation of the whole Star Seeker magic. I thought that the way the love interests were switched was a little strange, but at least the author was being original.
My real problem in the series started in the third book, when the story line deviated entirely from the original mythology. In fact, it seemed like the series had skewed completely from its original start. First off, the entrance of faeries in addition to the Star Seekers. I don't mind mixing mythology, in fact I think it's awesome, but this didn't seem like mixing. It felt like the author piled on unrelated mythology and tried to make it mix with a hasty explanation, but didn't think it out properly and ended up failing to combine the mythologies smoothly. Second, the entrance of a third love interest was a little frustrating. I mean, it wasn't even done so that the various love interests throughout the series were handled well. It was more like Allie had one, dropped him; got another one; kind of dropped him; got a third one, rejected him; kind of got the first one back, really dropped the second one; and now she's in a weird on-and-off with the original, Junior. That's literally the story of Allie's lovelife in the first four books. It just didn't seem to fit right. It's like the author just made it up as she went along, rather having an idea of what was going to happen in the series.
Then, in book four, things got even more bizarre. At the end of book 3, we randomly find out that Allie has a twin. Now, she suddenly now her name and needs her to fullfill the entire prophecy. Junior is suddenly back. A secret US government service if after Allie to exploit her power. And the whole Star Seeker business is long gone.
It felt like the story line didn't fit, like the author had just strung it together without putting much thought into it. The mythology got mixed up; the love interests were jumbled; the entire plot felt like Frankenstein: pulled together with used parts.
The good parts: Allie was a strong lead. Her mother was definitely an interesting character. Ms. Brothers definitely surprised me a few times. Some of the characters were truly lovable (especially little Chad).
Overall, I would give the first four books a 3/5 as a whole. I enjoyed reading the series, I just didn't quite like the path it took. I'm not going to recommend it to everybody. I would only recommend it to those who like a conglomeration of chicklit, various mythologies, thriller, and drama. And only if they're looking for a quick, light, entertaining read. If you're looking for unique, magnificent books that go above and beyond the norm, this series isn't for you. It's a fun, light read and I would only say to read this series if that's all your'e looking for.
-I got this as a review set from Netgalley; thanks so much!
Okay so, this series started out with a lot of promise. It was an interesting concept with a tough, relate-able lead. The first books was full of potential. The writing was smooth, the characters were interesting and the plot was exciting. The only problems were slightly one-dimensional characters (Junior and Allie's two friends were very flat; they seemed to serve very little real purpose.) and a somewhat predictable plot (It follows the format of just about every other YA book and the magic involved wasn't as featured as I thought it would be.) But these problems didn't ruin the book. It was still a fun read.
Book two was better. We got to know the characters better. The writing had improved and the plot became more unique.
Then came book three...I'm not sure why the author tried to cram in so many forms of mythology together, but it got a little bizarre. That plus that addition of a third "love interest" made the third book a bit of a let down.
And finally the forth book. Okay, so if book 3 was the overuse of mythology, book 4 was the absence. I felt like nothing significant happened until the final chapter.
The series as a whole:
The Unbidden magic series started off good. Just good. The characters were a little flat and the plot a little predictable, but overall I liked the series in the beginning. When a second love interest was brought in, I was fine with that, especially because it came in conjunction with an explanation of the whole Star Seeker magic. I thought that the way the love interests were switched was a little strange, but at least the author was being original.
My real problem in the series started in the third book, when the story line deviated entirely from the original mythology. In fact, it seemed like the series had skewed completely from its original start. First off, the entrance of faeries in addition to the Star Seekers. I don't mind mixing mythology, in fact I think it's awesome, but this didn't seem like mixing. It felt like the author piled on unrelated mythology and tried to make it mix with a hasty explanation, but didn't think it out properly and ended up failing to combine the mythologies smoothly. Second, the entrance of a third love interest was a little frustrating. I mean, it wasn't even done so that the various love interests throughout the series were handled well. It was more like Allie had one, dropped him; got another one; kind of dropped him; got a third one, rejected him; kind of got the first one back, really dropped the second one; and now she's in a weird on-and-off with the original, Junior. That's literally the story of Allie's lovelife in the first four books. It just didn't seem to fit right. It's like the author just made it up as she went along, rather having an idea of what was going to happen in the series.
Then, in book four, things got even more bizarre. At the end of book 3, we randomly find out that Allie has a twin. Now, she suddenly now her name and needs her to fullfill the entire prophecy. Junior is suddenly back. A secret US government service if after Allie to exploit her power. And the whole Star Seeker business is long gone.
It felt like the story line didn't fit, like the author had just strung it together without putting much thought into it. The mythology got mixed up; the love interests were jumbled; the entire plot felt like Frankenstein: pulled together with used parts.
The good parts: Allie was a strong lead. Her mother was definitely an interesting character. Ms. Brothers definitely surprised me a few times. Some of the characters were truly lovable (especially little Chad).
Overall, I would give the first four books a 3/5 as a whole. I enjoyed reading the series, I just didn't quite like the path it took. I'm not going to recommend it to everybody. I would only recommend it to those who like a conglomeration of chicklit, various mythologies, thriller, and drama. And only if they're looking for a quick, light, entertaining read. If you're looking for unique, magnificent books that go above and beyond the norm, this series isn't for you. It's a fun, light read and I would only say to read this series if that's all your'e looking for.
-I got this as a review set from Netgalley; thanks so much!
April 5, 2012
Disclosure: I received a free special eBook version of this series, including all four books in one, from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Synopsis Book 4: Shadow Moon: Allie Emerson is hoping for a few quiet months to catch her breath after a summer that included the discovery she is not only a twin and of faery blood, but also destined to play a pivotal role in faery world. School has barely begun when Allie must kiss her hope of a normal year goodbye.
She can't escape her unfinished business with the fae, the Trimarks, or Junior Alvarez, who is making it clear he plans to win her back. Signs, portents and whispers are pushing Allie to "find the girl" before it's too late. Hoping her twin can help her solve the riddle of their destiny, Allie uncovers old secrets and begins a cross-country journey that puts her in more danger than ever before. If she succeeds, she may just find the answers that can save everyone she loves.
My Thoughts: This book is a real humdinger – fast-paced and full of wonderful twists and turns. There were a few issues; for one thing, Junior’s last name is Martinez, not Alvarez, so the synopsis is wrong. Fortunately, the name is right in the book – I’m not sure how the synopsis got messed up, but everywhere I checked it was the same, with the wrong name. As far as my confusion about Beck and Nichole and what year Allie is in school, as I mentioned in my review of Moon Spun – as it turns out, they were a year ahead of her, so that was OK – Beck graduated one year early, and Allie had Nichole in school with her for one more year because Nichole was a year ahead of Allie. So I guess I either wasn’t paying close enough attention to relative ages in book two, or it wasn’t made very clear. Overall, I have been quite pleased with the series, and really enjoyed this book and further development of the characters. Some new nasties were introduced, but I think maybe the cast is finally complete and ready for the denouement.
There will be one more book in this series, which is to be called Midnight Moon. An excerpt can be found on Marilee Brothers’ website. Ms. Brothers hopes to have it out by late 2012 – watch her website and Facebook author page for more details. I’m very excited about it and can’t wait for it, to find out what will happen in the end. 5 out of 5 stars.
General Thoughts on the Series so far: While there is still one more book to come out in this series, I wanted to make some general comments now that I’ve read all the books available. Allie is a great heroine – full of spunk, strong, but also human and somewhat messed-up. I really liked her a lot. Her development through the series has been wonderful, and I’m really looking forward to the upcoming final book in this series. But this series so far rates 5 out of 5 stars in my book. Recommended.
Synopsis Book 4: Shadow Moon: Allie Emerson is hoping for a few quiet months to catch her breath after a summer that included the discovery she is not only a twin and of faery blood, but also destined to play a pivotal role in faery world. School has barely begun when Allie must kiss her hope of a normal year goodbye.
She can't escape her unfinished business with the fae, the Trimarks, or Junior Alvarez, who is making it clear he plans to win her back. Signs, portents and whispers are pushing Allie to "find the girl" before it's too late. Hoping her twin can help her solve the riddle of their destiny, Allie uncovers old secrets and begins a cross-country journey that puts her in more danger than ever before. If she succeeds, she may just find the answers that can save everyone she loves.
My Thoughts: This book is a real humdinger – fast-paced and full of wonderful twists and turns. There were a few issues; for one thing, Junior’s last name is Martinez, not Alvarez, so the synopsis is wrong. Fortunately, the name is right in the book – I’m not sure how the synopsis got messed up, but everywhere I checked it was the same, with the wrong name. As far as my confusion about Beck and Nichole and what year Allie is in school, as I mentioned in my review of Moon Spun – as it turns out, they were a year ahead of her, so that was OK – Beck graduated one year early, and Allie had Nichole in school with her for one more year because Nichole was a year ahead of Allie. So I guess I either wasn’t paying close enough attention to relative ages in book two, or it wasn’t made very clear. Overall, I have been quite pleased with the series, and really enjoyed this book and further development of the characters. Some new nasties were introduced, but I think maybe the cast is finally complete and ready for the denouement.
There will be one more book in this series, which is to be called Midnight Moon. An excerpt can be found on Marilee Brothers’ website. Ms. Brothers hopes to have it out by late 2012 – watch her website and Facebook author page for more details. I’m very excited about it and can’t wait for it, to find out what will happen in the end. 5 out of 5 stars.
General Thoughts on the Series so far: While there is still one more book to come out in this series, I wanted to make some general comments now that I’ve read all the books available. Allie is a great heroine – full of spunk, strong, but also human and somewhat messed-up. I really liked her a lot. Her development through the series has been wonderful, and I’m really looking forward to the upcoming final book in this series. But this series so far rates 5 out of 5 stars in my book. Recommended.
March 2, 2012
Sadly, this book isn't as strong as the second or third, although it is still shades better than the first.
We tenderly say goodbye to one character (although I have a feeling that it may not be the last time we see them), and we're introduced to others...one in particular that I absolutely love.
There is a twist that I saw coming, but it's a nice twist nonetheless.
The plot isn't as strong and, for me at least, not as interesting or thrilling as the previous books. It seemed disjointed and awkward in places. It felt rushed, especially since this book is very short. I wish it had been longer and more character-driven.
But the series as a whole, although not yet complete (book 5, Midnight Moon, is due in July I believe), is a really fun read.
A few things bothered me, like Allie pretty much telling everyone about her powers and the moonstone. The book often mentions Allie's trust issues, then in the next chapter, she's telling yet another person her secrets.
As mentioned above, there are just too many boys...although I think I may understand why Ryker was introduced now that I've read Shadow Moon...but that's all just my little theory. ;)
All in all, these are some excellent little books that your teens will love. I'd highly recommend them for kids 14+.
I'm definitely looking forward to book five and reading the conclusion to Allie's story.
There's still so much plot left to resolve, I'm hoping Midnight Moon is a nice big, juicy book!
We tenderly say goodbye to one character (although I have a feeling that it may not be the last time we see them), and we're introduced to others...one in particular that I absolutely love.
There is a twist that I saw coming, but it's a nice twist nonetheless.
The plot isn't as strong and, for me at least, not as interesting or thrilling as the previous books. It seemed disjointed and awkward in places. It felt rushed, especially since this book is very short. I wish it had been longer and more character-driven.
But the series as a whole, although not yet complete (book 5, Midnight Moon, is due in July I believe), is a really fun read.
A few things bothered me, like Allie pretty much telling everyone about her powers and the moonstone. The book often mentions Allie's trust issues, then in the next chapter, she's telling yet another person her secrets.
As mentioned above, there are just too many boys...although I think I may understand why Ryker was introduced now that I've read Shadow Moon...but that's all just my little theory. ;)
All in all, these are some excellent little books that your teens will love. I'd highly recommend them for kids 14+.
I'm definitely looking forward to book five and reading the conclusion to Allie's story.
There's still so much plot left to resolve, I'm hoping Midnight Moon is a nice big, juicy book!
May 9, 2012
With the final book coming out this summer, Netgalley had an offer for their reviewers – all four of the current books of the Unbidden Magic Series as one long e-book. The number of pages was daunting but that didn’t stop me from burning through the books in a matter of days. Allie is just a normal girl trying to survive what life has offered her. She lives with her mother in a travel trailer on a piece of her mother’s step-brother’s land. Her mother was suffering from a mysterious illness that prevented her from working. Poor didn’t even begin to express how they lived. That was until Allie fell off the porch and something strange happened. Her life would never be the same. Allie was meant for greater things that involved magic, demons, fairies and an upcoming war between the light and the dark. The stories are witty and entertaining. Maybe a little over the top but I think that’s what I loved about them. It’s tough to talk about a series without giving away too much information but I will say the thing that tickled me the most was Allie’s boy trouble. She’s awkward and brash but that doesn’t stop the boys from lining up and threatening her reputation. They compare this series to Sookie Stackhouse, not sure I agree but I will say these are a fun read and I’m not all that excited that I now have to wait for the 5th book. Especially since the fourth ended with such a cliffhanger.
April 4, 2012
I read the first four books in the Unbidden Magic Series at once. To review them, I wrote a mini review of each book followed by an overall review of the complete series. For the full review of all four books, see Chronicles of a Book Evangelist.
Mini Review:
Shadow Moon frustrated me so much as a reader. Allie has developed as a character, and by this point she feels real. However, Brothers seems to have completely lost control of her plot and world at this point. She spends most of the book chasing red herrings and focusing on plot distractions, while characters and events that are integral to the progression of the series arc are barely even mentioned. In fact, Shadow Moon begins with such an info-dumpy barrage of new information - treated as if it is old news - that I at first thought I had mistakenly skipped a book!
Series Overall:
Do not read this portion if you do not want to be spoiled. Okay? Okay.
Thanks to Bell Bridge Books for the Review Copies
Mini Review:
Shadow Moon frustrated me so much as a reader. Allie has developed as a character, and by this point she feels real. However, Brothers seems to have completely lost control of her plot and world at this point. She spends most of the book chasing red herrings and focusing on plot distractions, while characters and events that are integral to the progression of the series arc are barely even mentioned. In fact, Shadow Moon begins with such an info-dumpy barrage of new information - treated as if it is old news - that I at first thought I had mistakenly skipped a book!
Series Overall:
Do not read this portion if you do not want to be spoiled. Okay? Okay.
Thanks to Bell Bridge Books for the Review Copies
Read
March 20, 2022Book 4 in a fun and fast-paced series with a teen who is an unlikely hero. Okay - the developments in book 3 with fairy make complete sense now. I just wish the transition between book 2 and book 3, along with the entire path to book 4, was a little less chaotic.
People of all ages will enjoy this YA paranormal/supernatural series. The character development and world building were done well. I enjoyed the author’s voice/writing style.
I was provided a 4-book review copy from NG.
People of all ages will enjoy this YA paranormal/supernatural series. The character development and world building were done well. I enjoyed the author’s voice/writing style.
I was provided a 4-book review copy from NG.
March 28, 2012
RECEIVED FROM: Net Galley For Review
***NOTE MY REVIEWS OFTEN CONTAIN SPOILERS***
Allie seems to have straightened out her relationship problems, but when government agents who know about the Moonstone come knocking at her door, she’s in for a whole new kind of trouble. Like she needs this when she’s in the middle of finding her long lost twin and trying to stop a Tri-Mark prophecy from basically ending the world. And just to make her life even more exciting Carmel has a new boyfriend, he’s an Unseelie in the disguise of a cult like preacher bent on turning everyone against people with paranormal abilities. With obstacles at every turn, does she even have a chance of succeeding this time?
When the book opened it seemed the Allie had yet another guy in her life when she goes to the Winter formal with Corey Philpot and I swear I thought I was going to scream. Fortunately it was a onetime date while Junior was out of town and kind of because Corey has changed. Brothers quickly eliminates this involvement when she turns Corey into only a friend and set him up with another girl soon after. She also settles a lot of the other romantic upheaval as well. Beck has moved on, they’re friends, they care about each other but they’re not together. Ryker is in boundless, he’s still convinced he’s betrothed to Allie, but is content to wait until she returns eight years hence. Junior is what I’d guess you’d call a nonexclusive boyfriend. Fortunately none of these relationships, since there’s now so many it’s hard to keep track, are the focus of this novel. All of the guys are background in this novel and while we get a scene or so with each of them, more so with Junior than the others, they’re clearly secondary characters here, not a focus.
However plot originality is still an issue in this novel like it was in the last. Basic plot points in this book are like a cross between Stephen King’s Firestarter (the movie not the book since I can’t read King, he’s too verbose to keep my attention) and The Lying Game (the television show, not the book because I haven’t had the chance to read that yet). We’ve got the long lost twin she doesn’t know about and yes one of the twins is filthy rich while the other is dirt poor. And yes the rich twin is shallow, selfish and vain, just like that television show. And then Firestarter in with the government division tracking down people with paranormal abilities and not taking no for an answer. Oh yeah those well known plots are very big parts of this story and while I’ve never been one who needs a completely original plot, if you’re going to use a well known plot you have to own it and make it original enough that you may be able to make comparison between that book an others but you aren’t pretty sure what’s going to happen in the current story because of the one it’s pulled from. So yeah my main issue is the one listed above, this series started out with some good originality, and now it’s sliding into used plots just to keep it going. However these aren’t the only plot lines in the book. She’s got a lot of things going on here at once. There’s the religious cult led by the evil guy plot and then finding the girl to unite the stone and of course save the world from the Tri-Marks who are now by the way part of the Unseelie court, something than was wondered about in the last novel and has somehow become confirmed in this novel. Both issues are related but they kind of have separate storylines all the same. While we receive a good story arc on some of the plot lines she’s got going in this book, Brothers is clearly setting up a larger story arc that will hopefully be completed in the next book because they ending leaves tons of questions and is in many ways open. The story remains in a fast paced, first person narrative, and it actually well written and interesting despite my complaints above.
The characters are mostly ones we already know and while she does give some of the well known characters more depth in this story, like Mike for example the major character development occurs in the new characters like Teagan and Sammie who are fairly well developed. One thing I will say is that she had so many characters going in this novel I started to get a little confused. Probably because a lot of the names begin with the letter A. So in scenes where we haven’t seen a character in a while I had to go back and figure out just who the person was. For example the scene on the road where Angela comes to the car window, I thought it was the sister not the government agent and it took me a bit to figure out who she really was. Each book seems to bring in so many new characters that it is getting hard to keep some of the minor ones straight.
Overall it’s not a bad book and fans of young adult paranormal fiction will probably enjoy it. Again I don’t think it was one of Brothers’ best, but the larger open ended story arc in this novel leaves me with high hopes for the next one in the series.
***NOTE MY REVIEWS OFTEN CONTAIN SPOILERS***
Allie seems to have straightened out her relationship problems, but when government agents who know about the Moonstone come knocking at her door, she’s in for a whole new kind of trouble. Like she needs this when she’s in the middle of finding her long lost twin and trying to stop a Tri-Mark prophecy from basically ending the world. And just to make her life even more exciting Carmel has a new boyfriend, he’s an Unseelie in the disguise of a cult like preacher bent on turning everyone against people with paranormal abilities. With obstacles at every turn, does she even have a chance of succeeding this time?
When the book opened it seemed the Allie had yet another guy in her life when she goes to the Winter formal with Corey Philpot and I swear I thought I was going to scream. Fortunately it was a onetime date while Junior was out of town and kind of because Corey has changed. Brothers quickly eliminates this involvement when she turns Corey into only a friend and set him up with another girl soon after. She also settles a lot of the other romantic upheaval as well. Beck has moved on, they’re friends, they care about each other but they’re not together. Ryker is in boundless, he’s still convinced he’s betrothed to Allie, but is content to wait until she returns eight years hence. Junior is what I’d guess you’d call a nonexclusive boyfriend. Fortunately none of these relationships, since there’s now so many it’s hard to keep track, are the focus of this novel. All of the guys are background in this novel and while we get a scene or so with each of them, more so with Junior than the others, they’re clearly secondary characters here, not a focus.
However plot originality is still an issue in this novel like it was in the last. Basic plot points in this book are like a cross between Stephen King’s Firestarter (the movie not the book since I can’t read King, he’s too verbose to keep my attention) and The Lying Game (the television show, not the book because I haven’t had the chance to read that yet). We’ve got the long lost twin she doesn’t know about and yes one of the twins is filthy rich while the other is dirt poor. And yes the rich twin is shallow, selfish and vain, just like that television show. And then Firestarter in with the government division tracking down people with paranormal abilities and not taking no for an answer. Oh yeah those well known plots are very big parts of this story and while I’ve never been one who needs a completely original plot, if you’re going to use a well known plot you have to own it and make it original enough that you may be able to make comparison between that book an others but you aren’t pretty sure what’s going to happen in the current story because of the one it’s pulled from. So yeah my main issue is the one listed above, this series started out with some good originality, and now it’s sliding into used plots just to keep it going. However these aren’t the only plot lines in the book. She’s got a lot of things going on here at once. There’s the religious cult led by the evil guy plot and then finding the girl to unite the stone and of course save the world from the Tri-Marks who are now by the way part of the Unseelie court, something than was wondered about in the last novel and has somehow become confirmed in this novel. Both issues are related but they kind of have separate storylines all the same. While we receive a good story arc on some of the plot lines she’s got going in this book, Brothers is clearly setting up a larger story arc that will hopefully be completed in the next book because they ending leaves tons of questions and is in many ways open. The story remains in a fast paced, first person narrative, and it actually well written and interesting despite my complaints above.
The characters are mostly ones we already know and while she does give some of the well known characters more depth in this story, like Mike for example the major character development occurs in the new characters like Teagan and Sammie who are fairly well developed. One thing I will say is that she had so many characters going in this novel I started to get a little confused. Probably because a lot of the names begin with the letter A. So in scenes where we haven’t seen a character in a while I had to go back and figure out just who the person was. For example the scene on the road where Angela comes to the car window, I thought it was the sister not the government agent and it took me a bit to figure out who she really was. Each book seems to bring in so many new characters that it is getting hard to keep some of the minor ones straight.
Overall it’s not a bad book and fans of young adult paranormal fiction will probably enjoy it. Again I don’t think it was one of Brothers’ best, but the larger open ended story arc in this novel leaves me with high hopes for the next one in the series.
June 16, 2012
Title: Shadow Moon (Unbidden Magic #4)
Author: Marilee Brothers
Rating: 5/5
Summary: Allie is a faerie princess, destined to marry Ryker, and she’s a twin. After all these discoveries, all she wants is some down time to process it and catch her breath, however, that is not going to be allowed. Any hope that Allie had of a normal school year is gone, and she has countless levels of unfinished business with the fae, the Tri-Marks and the returned Junior Alvarez, who wants her back in a major way. This danger filled cross-country journey will provide more twists and turns into Allie’s already convoluted life and hopefully she will find the answers and save everyone she loves.
Review: Two words: CLIFF HANGER! Dear god, I am restraining myself from tracking down Ms. Brothers and begging for an ARC of book number five that she is working on. Seriously, I want it that bad. This book was fantastic, this book was even more of a rollercoaster than the other books in the series. The adventure and excitement in Moon Spun have NOTHING on the twists and turns of this book.
The play on government conspiracies, the threat from our own government added to the mix, was something expected yet unexpected. Something I once thought as filler has become its own full blown storyline, and there was absolutely nothing that I could find fault with aside from the fact that it ends on a cliff hanger and those drive me crazy with want for more.
I seriously had to struggle to put this book down and do other things, like work and tend to household chores. It was that good, and you cannot look away. She has a twin, and an evil looking fae who pops in and out at the weirdest times. Also, there is the fae posing as a preacher who has evil motives. Then we meet Sammie, who Allie has a psychic connection to. A suspension right before the holiday, Allie is vindicated by Nicole, and this opens up the path to begin searching for her sister. A unique mix goes along for the ride: Junior, Faye and Sammie. However, things take a drastic turn and this search soon becomes a fight for Allie and Sammie’s life.
I wish Beck had gotten a bit more page time aside from a phone call every now and then, but perhaps it is a good thing, because of Beck’s succubus heritage. Junior has fallen out of favor with me, but he regained a lot of it in this installment, and I’m looking to see what develops between him and Allie in the future installments. Another beau that is absent in this installment is Ryker, but there are some hints that lead me to believe that there maybe some kin between he and Beck. However, the hawk feather comes through.
Sammie has become one of my favorites and I love the connection between she and Allie. One that we do not know how close it is until the very end of the story, and I can’t wait to see more of her.
If you’ve not read this series, it is never too late to start. There is something in it for everyone, and I am anxious to see what else is in store for Allie and her band of merry misfits.
If you have any questions, comments or recommendations you can contact me at simplicity.kindreth@gmail.com
My reviews can be found here:
Confessions of a Bibliophile
Idle Musings and Random Things
Cae's Smashwords
Author: Marilee Brothers
Rating: 5/5
Summary: Allie is a faerie princess, destined to marry Ryker, and she’s a twin. After all these discoveries, all she wants is some down time to process it and catch her breath, however, that is not going to be allowed. Any hope that Allie had of a normal school year is gone, and she has countless levels of unfinished business with the fae, the Tri-Marks and the returned Junior Alvarez, who wants her back in a major way. This danger filled cross-country journey will provide more twists and turns into Allie’s already convoluted life and hopefully she will find the answers and save everyone she loves.
Review: Two words: CLIFF HANGER! Dear god, I am restraining myself from tracking down Ms. Brothers and begging for an ARC of book number five that she is working on. Seriously, I want it that bad. This book was fantastic, this book was even more of a rollercoaster than the other books in the series. The adventure and excitement in Moon Spun have NOTHING on the twists and turns of this book.
The play on government conspiracies, the threat from our own government added to the mix, was something expected yet unexpected. Something I once thought as filler has become its own full blown storyline, and there was absolutely nothing that I could find fault with aside from the fact that it ends on a cliff hanger and those drive me crazy with want for more.
I seriously had to struggle to put this book down and do other things, like work and tend to household chores. It was that good, and you cannot look away. She has a twin, and an evil looking fae who pops in and out at the weirdest times. Also, there is the fae posing as a preacher who has evil motives. Then we meet Sammie, who Allie has a psychic connection to. A suspension right before the holiday, Allie is vindicated by Nicole, and this opens up the path to begin searching for her sister. A unique mix goes along for the ride: Junior, Faye and Sammie. However, things take a drastic turn and this search soon becomes a fight for Allie and Sammie’s life.
I wish Beck had gotten a bit more page time aside from a phone call every now and then, but perhaps it is a good thing, because of Beck’s succubus heritage. Junior has fallen out of favor with me, but he regained a lot of it in this installment, and I’m looking to see what develops between him and Allie in the future installments. Another beau that is absent in this installment is Ryker, but there are some hints that lead me to believe that there maybe some kin between he and Beck. However, the hawk feather comes through.
Sammie has become one of my favorites and I love the connection between she and Allie. One that we do not know how close it is until the very end of the story, and I can’t wait to see more of her.
If you’ve not read this series, it is never too late to start. There is something in it for everyone, and I am anxious to see what else is in store for Allie and her band of merry misfits.
If you have any questions, comments or recommendations you can contact me at simplicity.kindreth@gmail.com
My reviews can be found here:
Confessions of a Bibliophile
Idle Musings and Random Things
Cae's Smashwords
April 13, 2012
Reviewed at http://www.mandikayereads.com/archive...
Okay, moment of truth.
I have to admit that while I find these books so utterly and completely ridiculous and over the top, I can't put them down when I'm reading one.
That says a lot.
I don't know what it is about these books, quite honestly.
This installment was better than the others- it wasn't quite the three ring circus that was going on in previous books. There's no new guy- though I thought there would be for a moment there. There's no trip to faery, even though the fae do play a large role in this one. There is the introduction of a long-lost twin sister. But I can buy that, based on how the previous books led up to it.
The government agency kidnapping added to the over-the-top feeling, but still- it was less ridiculous than the previous book.
Things that bothered me:
1. "It sounds like I have a whole stable of hot guys just dying to take me out. Not true." Um, yes it is. Boys are a commodity in this series. It's frustrating, unrealistic, and annoying to read.
2. Allie manages to get all sorts of confidential information out of people. She asks a nurse she knows about her twin sister- born sixteen years ago- and miraculously gets all of the information she needs. Including a picture of her mom holding the twins the night they were born, courtesy of a former nurse, now turned Alzheimer's patient, who just happens to carry pictures in her purse of every single baby she helped deliver. How unrealistic is that? AND THEN she just happens to have a friend who is such a skilled hacker that he can find people who have fake names and have faked their deaths. Right.
3. Trilby. This was her last visit and it was set up as some big emotional scene. Trilby is a character we've seen exactly one time in each book. And each time her visit was not necessary as she never added anything new to the plot development.
4. "...and Luella Hoptowit, token Indian (feather, not dot)..." Are you freaking kidding me?
5. Allie's mom can't iron the clothes because of her fae-blood aversion to iron. At first, I thought it was just a bad pun. But then it was explained. In detail. But modern irons don't contain real iron. LAME.
But still, despite all of that, something about them has grabbed me. I've been pulled in. I truly want to read the next, and final, installment.
Okay, moment of truth.
I have to admit that while I find these books so utterly and completely ridiculous and over the top, I can't put them down when I'm reading one.
That says a lot.
I don't know what it is about these books, quite honestly.
This installment was better than the others- it wasn't quite the three ring circus that was going on in previous books. There's no new guy- though I thought there would be for a moment there. There's no trip to faery, even though the fae do play a large role in this one. There is the introduction of a long-lost twin sister. But I can buy that, based on how the previous books led up to it.
The government agency kidnapping added to the over-the-top feeling, but still- it was less ridiculous than the previous book.
Things that bothered me:
1. "It sounds like I have a whole stable of hot guys just dying to take me out. Not true." Um, yes it is. Boys are a commodity in this series. It's frustrating, unrealistic, and annoying to read.
2. Allie manages to get all sorts of confidential information out of people. She asks a nurse she knows about her twin sister- born sixteen years ago- and miraculously gets all of the information she needs. Including a picture of her mom holding the twins the night they were born, courtesy of a former nurse, now turned Alzheimer's patient, who just happens to carry pictures in her purse of every single baby she helped deliver. How unrealistic is that? AND THEN she just happens to have a friend who is such a skilled hacker that he can find people who have fake names and have faked their deaths. Right.
3. Trilby. This was her last visit and it was set up as some big emotional scene. Trilby is a character we've seen exactly one time in each book. And each time her visit was not necessary as she never added anything new to the plot development.
4. "...and Luella Hoptowit, token Indian (feather, not dot)..." Are you freaking kidding me?
5. Allie's mom can't iron the clothes because of her fae-blood aversion to iron. At first, I thought it was just a bad pun. But then it was explained. In detail. But modern irons don't contain real iron. LAME.
But still, despite all of that, something about them has grabbed me. I've been pulled in. I truly want to read the next, and final, installment.
March 21, 2012
Well, now I have to go cry in the corner because this was my last Unbidden Magic book that is published. This book was just too awesome! I had so much fun reading it. There is just so much that happens in Shadow Moon that I couldn't stop reading it. When I had to stop for a bit, I was thinking about it. My husband thinks I'm crazy because I can't stop talking about how much I love this series. It's really going to be hard waiting for the next book. I need to know what happens!!!
At the end of Moon Spun we are left with a cliffhanger, right from the beginning of Shadow Moon we learn that Allie does indeed have a twin, her name is Anna Starr Emerson. Allie also finds out that the Trimarks and Dark Fae are planning something awful and two girls are needed to stop them, Allie and someone else. She can only assume it's her long lost twin, so she really needs to find her. Will she be able to find her? So far her connection with the FBI has brought up nothing. If she finds her, will Anna Starr even want to help her? It's possible she might not be able to accept what she is. So off Allie goes, searching for her twin. There is lots of action and drama that happens along the way.
For our love intrests, we are basically back down to Junior and Ryker (kind of). Mostly Junior though. Beck is in the "friend zone". Ryker isn't really around much, he does make an apperance and help Allie out a bit, but hey, he just has to bide his time since she has to go back to Boundless in 8 years anyways. So she will kiss the hunky Junior for now.
I just cannot get over how much I love this series, it's going to be a long wait for the next book. I just can't wait to find out what happens next! I loved the ending of this book, it made me so happy! So I want to find out what happens next. If you still haven't checked out this series, you really should. It really is a great, exciting read! Thank you Marilee for writing such and amazing and awesome series! Seriously, go read this now!
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy
For more reviews, visit Owl Read It
At the end of Moon Spun we are left with a cliffhanger, right from the beginning of Shadow Moon we learn that Allie does indeed have a twin, her name is Anna Starr Emerson. Allie also finds out that the Trimarks and Dark Fae are planning something awful and two girls are needed to stop them, Allie and someone else. She can only assume it's her long lost twin, so she really needs to find her. Will she be able to find her? So far her connection with the FBI has brought up nothing. If she finds her, will Anna Starr even want to help her? It's possible she might not be able to accept what she is. So off Allie goes, searching for her twin. There is lots of action and drama that happens along the way.
For our love intrests, we are basically back down to Junior and Ryker (kind of). Mostly Junior though. Beck is in the "friend zone". Ryker isn't really around much, he does make an apperance and help Allie out a bit, but hey, he just has to bide his time since she has to go back to Boundless in 8 years anyways. So she will kiss the hunky Junior for now.
I just cannot get over how much I love this series, it's going to be a long wait for the next book. I just can't wait to find out what happens next! I loved the ending of this book, it made me so happy! So I want to find out what happens next. If you still haven't checked out this series, you really should. It really is a great, exciting read! Thank you Marilee for writing such and amazing and awesome series! Seriously, go read this now!
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy
For more reviews, visit Owl Read It
March 28, 2012
Shadow Moon affirmed everything that I loved about this series so far. Allie Emerson has grown up so much since Moonstone and she proves so many times that she's now a force to be reckoned with. And woe betide anyone who steps in her way. In the beginning she was meek but with a little attitude, and now she's full on 'don't mess with me!'.
The characters in the series all play their parts, and its Junior, her love interest in the first book, that comes to her rescue this time. The trimarks have involved a cult religious group and scour towns to bring in new followers. When they arrive at Peacock Flats everyone in Allie's confidence can tell somethings not right about them. Even Nicola, twin to Allie's ex boyfriend Beck, wants to find out what their plans and how they mean to rid the world of supernatural and demonic forces.
Ryker's gone back to faery land, Beck is still away at college (they're now 'justfriends') but Junior decides he's had enough of his TV stardom and settles back into town. He backs up Allie's decisions and becomes her voice of reason, and even wins Allie's mum over in the end.
While Allie is worrying about the new cult, a special government agency pop into town too to recruit Allie. But she proves she's got a good head on her shoulders and checks up with her FBI source, and with the help of her father (part faery) she discovers they may have ulterior motives.
But the main adventure in this book is Allie's quest to find her unknown twin sister. With the help of Sammie (who she meets telepathically at the cult show), her mom and Junior they visit California to pay a visit. But the trip dooesn't go as planned at all and with disasterous repercussions.
This really has been an exciting series so far. In the beginning I was dubious. I thought it would be a little too young for me but I've laughed and been thoroughly entertained throughout. Book 5, the last in the series is being written right now and I hope Allie finally can put the past behind her and find a bit of happiness.
The characters in the series all play their parts, and its Junior, her love interest in the first book, that comes to her rescue this time. The trimarks have involved a cult religious group and scour towns to bring in new followers. When they arrive at Peacock Flats everyone in Allie's confidence can tell somethings not right about them. Even Nicola, twin to Allie's ex boyfriend Beck, wants to find out what their plans and how they mean to rid the world of supernatural and demonic forces.
Ryker's gone back to faery land, Beck is still away at college (they're now 'justfriends') but Junior decides he's had enough of his TV stardom and settles back into town. He backs up Allie's decisions and becomes her voice of reason, and even wins Allie's mum over in the end.
While Allie is worrying about the new cult, a special government agency pop into town too to recruit Allie. But she proves she's got a good head on her shoulders and checks up with her FBI source, and with the help of her father (part faery) she discovers they may have ulterior motives.
But the main adventure in this book is Allie's quest to find her unknown twin sister. With the help of Sammie (who she meets telepathically at the cult show), her mom and Junior they visit California to pay a visit. But the trip dooesn't go as planned at all and with disasterous repercussions.
This really has been an exciting series so far. In the beginning I was dubious. I thought it would be a little too young for me but I've laughed and been thoroughly entertained throughout. Book 5, the last in the series is being written right now and I hope Allie finally can put the past behind her and find a bit of happiness.
March 12, 2013
Allie Emerson's life is far from boring. She's discovered she has paranormal powers, that she's the supposed Star Seeker, is part faery, and now has a twin sister she's never heard of. Her life is an emotion filled roller coaster that never seems to stop. Just once, she'd love to have a normal life. Unfortunately, she knows that will never be likely.
Doing her best to make do with the life she's been saddled with, Allie knows it's only a matter of time before something else comes along to ruin her day. Never-the-less, she's determined to make the most of her uncanny situation. There are a couple perks to being part faery and a magic user, but that's only if she'll allow herself to enjoy them.
With the Trimark's still on her tail, she knows she needs to stay one step ahead of them. They'll do anything to acquire her precious Moonstone, including the use of unconventional methods in order to achieve an end to their own means. Yet they never thought they'd have to contend with Allie's brawn and tough demeanor.
Thwarting their every plan, Allie's put up with a lot of disappointments. Though, she knows there's a silver lining underneath every dark cloud. When an uncanny prophecy sends her and her family catapulted in the direction of her mysterious sister, she soon wonders what she's gotten herself into. Everything isn't as it seems, and someone else is obviously out to get her and the Moonstone. Still, she knows the answers they all seek are just around the corner. They just have to work together in order to find out what they need to know before something else goes awry in the process.
This was another lovely addition to the Unbidden Magic series. It was nice seeing Allie grow up just a little more. The little twist with Cory was unexpected, though I've got to admit that it added just a little intrigue to the story itself. I do think a little more Junior in the story would be nice to tie up the loose ends there. Hopefully, the next book will do just that. Overall, it's a very good read.
Doing her best to make do with the life she's been saddled with, Allie knows it's only a matter of time before something else comes along to ruin her day. Never-the-less, she's determined to make the most of her uncanny situation. There are a couple perks to being part faery and a magic user, but that's only if she'll allow herself to enjoy them.
With the Trimark's still on her tail, she knows she needs to stay one step ahead of them. They'll do anything to acquire her precious Moonstone, including the use of unconventional methods in order to achieve an end to their own means. Yet they never thought they'd have to contend with Allie's brawn and tough demeanor.
Thwarting their every plan, Allie's put up with a lot of disappointments. Though, she knows there's a silver lining underneath every dark cloud. When an uncanny prophecy sends her and her family catapulted in the direction of her mysterious sister, she soon wonders what she's gotten herself into. Everything isn't as it seems, and someone else is obviously out to get her and the Moonstone. Still, she knows the answers they all seek are just around the corner. They just have to work together in order to find out what they need to know before something else goes awry in the process.
This was another lovely addition to the Unbidden Magic series. It was nice seeing Allie grow up just a little more. The little twist with Cory was unexpected, though I've got to admit that it added just a little intrigue to the story itself. I do think a little more Junior in the story would be nice to tie up the loose ends there. Hopefully, the next book will do just that. Overall, it's a very good read.
August 15, 2012
This 4th book in the series, is better than both #2 and #3 and is more on par with #1, which was the best of the 3 before I read this one. I liked this one about the same as #1 but it does end somewhat abruptly, though I am guessing that was done on purpose as a lead in to #5.
The author takes plot turns that are unexpected, at least to me and that is primarily what I disliked about #3 with the introduction of Faerie and all. But now that I am used to that reality I found #4 more enjoyable.
This book starts out with Allie wanting to find her twin sister, whose existence, she says she learned at the end of book 3. I don't recall reading that in book #3 but I guess it must be there.
Also, while the Trimarks are back in book 4 they seem less menacing than they did in books 1 and 2, though of course they are apparently marshalling for their hoped for big coming out on the summer solstice.
The author says #5 will be the last in the series. I am sad to hear that and I also find myself wondering just how she will have Allie save the world and also honor or somehow get out of her committment to move to Faerie world in 8 years time.
Also, the whole twin sister thing is a bit murky since at the end Allie finds the girl she has been looking for but it isn't the girl that she tracked down as being her sister. So was the California girl a fake sister that the Trimarks created? As unpredictable as I find Brothers' plot turns, the girl Allie finds at the end as being "The One" is exactly who I thought it would be though whether or not she is actually Allie's biological twin isn't clear.
All in all, for all the twists and unexpected turns, I like Marilee Brothers' writing.
The author takes plot turns that are unexpected, at least to me and that is primarily what I disliked about #3 with the introduction of Faerie and all. But now that I am used to that reality I found #4 more enjoyable.
This book starts out with Allie wanting to find her twin sister, whose existence, she says she learned at the end of book 3. I don't recall reading that in book #3 but I guess it must be there.
Also, while the Trimarks are back in book 4 they seem less menacing than they did in books 1 and 2, though of course they are apparently marshalling for their hoped for big coming out on the summer solstice.
The author says #5 will be the last in the series. I am sad to hear that and I also find myself wondering just how she will have Allie save the world and also honor or somehow get out of her committment to move to Faerie world in 8 years time.
Also, the whole twin sister thing is a bit murky since at the end Allie finds the girl she has been looking for but it isn't the girl that she tracked down as being her sister. So was the California girl a fake sister that the Trimarks created? As unpredictable as I find Brothers' plot turns, the girl Allie finds at the end as being "The One" is exactly who I thought it would be though whether or not she is actually Allie's biological twin isn't clear.
All in all, for all the twists and unexpected turns, I like Marilee Brothers' writing.
March 14, 2012
First let me give a disclaimer. I am not as happy with the series as I initially was with it. Yet somehow I can't deny that Brothers has an almost magical irresistibly addicting writing style. Despite my vocal gripes, I ended up not being able to walk away from this book.
First the good. Allie is still endearing and the plot brings in some rather interesting elements. I liked the idea of a road trip and I enjoyed the introduction of some of the new characters, namely the character of Sammie. There's a lot that can be done with this character and I'm going to hope that she'll be more developed in the next book.
Now for the not so good. While I enjoyed this book, I'll be the first to admit that the book was pretty weak at times. Why? Because it just felt like it was written very spur of the moment. Things are brought up so abruptly that I can't help but wonder how much pre-plotting was done for this book or if it was all written as-is. There's some good ideas here that would have been amazing if properly developed over the previous books, but unfortunately they weren't. As a result some of the reveals and plot developments just feel a little choppy and unevenly paced at worst and at best, a little predictable. (The final reveal of the book is a good example of something everyone could've seen coming a mile away.)
In the end the book is still a pretty fun read despite its weaknesses. In its current state it'll probably never become as big as some of the more known UF YA books, but it's entertaining enough that it'll be more than just another entry into the UF genre. I've read better, but this is good enough for me to want to read the next book in the series and recommend it as a library read.
(ARC provided by Netgalley)
First the good. Allie is still endearing and the plot brings in some rather interesting elements. I liked the idea of a road trip and I enjoyed the introduction of some of the new characters, namely the character of Sammie. There's a lot that can be done with this character and I'm going to hope that she'll be more developed in the next book.
Now for the not so good. While I enjoyed this book, I'll be the first to admit that the book was pretty weak at times. Why? Because it just felt like it was written very spur of the moment. Things are brought up so abruptly that I can't help but wonder how much pre-plotting was done for this book or if it was all written as-is. There's some good ideas here that would have been amazing if properly developed over the previous books, but unfortunately they weren't. As a result some of the reveals and plot developments just feel a little choppy and unevenly paced at worst and at best, a little predictable. (The final reveal of the book is a good example of something everyone could've seen coming a mile away.)
In the end the book is still a pretty fun read despite its weaknesses. In its current state it'll probably never become as big as some of the more known UF YA books, but it's entertaining enough that it'll be more than just another entry into the UF genre. I've read better, but this is good enough for me to want to read the next book in the series and recommend it as a library read.
(ARC provided by Netgalley)
March 26, 2013
I don’t know how Brothers keeps coming up with so many new ideas to put in her books. She never reuses ideas from one book in the series to the next. That said, all of the books flow into one another very nicely and all of the characters and settings stay remarkably consistent.
Brothers’ impeccable writing is out in full force again with this step in the saga. She works her immaculate descriptions throughout everything in the novel. Each and every section of the novel has descriptions and background written right into it. This aids the storyline and world building rather than slowing it down. Everything is vividly real. I also enjoy the increased suspense in this novel, as opposed to its predecessors. Some parts of this novel are comically suspenseful. It’s great.
The characters continue to grow and become more real and developed throughout this novel. I appreciate that the character development is spread out among the characters in the novel, not just based on the main character. I really enjoy seeing the main characters thoughts in comparison to what she actually says and does. It’s very unique in a book, but true to real life. Brothers also introduces some new characters in this installment. They are very unique and well developed characters, but fit very well into the story, further enriching it.
I loved this installment in the Unbidden Magic series. I think that it’s my favorite so far and can’t wait to see how it all wraps up. But I think I’m going to miss the world’s best guardian angel in the final installment of the series.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Brothers’ impeccable writing is out in full force again with this step in the saga. She works her immaculate descriptions throughout everything in the novel. Each and every section of the novel has descriptions and background written right into it. This aids the storyline and world building rather than slowing it down. Everything is vividly real. I also enjoy the increased suspense in this novel, as opposed to its predecessors. Some parts of this novel are comically suspenseful. It’s great.
The characters continue to grow and become more real and developed throughout this novel. I appreciate that the character development is spread out among the characters in the novel, not just based on the main character. I really enjoy seeing the main characters thoughts in comparison to what she actually says and does. It’s very unique in a book, but true to real life. Brothers also introduces some new characters in this installment. They are very unique and well developed characters, but fit very well into the story, further enriching it.
I loved this installment in the Unbidden Magic series. I think that it’s my favorite so far and can’t wait to see how it all wraps up. But I think I’m going to miss the world’s best guardian angel in the final installment of the series.
Please note that I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2012
Book four of the Unbidden magic series finds the reader back with Allie, hoping to have some rest.
But once again she is overwhelmed with new information and tasks to be done: She discovers she has a twin, has to find the girl to make her half whole to save the world from dark fae and all this in only a few month...
Junior is back in town and faithful as ever, helping her find her twin and accompanying her on her quests.
Across the state they are once again encountering menacing Trimarks, who they later discover have burrowed deep into friendly territory. Allie's sister is more than reluctant to help them and when Allie gets kidnapped by two people she knows want to exploit her abilities the nailbiting hits its peak!
Introducing a kind of protective fairy to replace her ditsy guardian angel of sorts, a new adversary in form of a dark fairy disguised as a preacher that is dating Kizzy's reformed daughter and a cute homeless girl that follows them around, we not only get a whole new cast of loveable and hateable characters, but are as ever left with the questions of who they are and what role they will play in the story...
It is amazing how intricate and wide spun this tale leaves you feeling close to the characters and the action at all times. Brothers has done a fine job of spinning a tale that has you twisting and turning with the action and wanting more, always wanting more!!!
Cannot wait for the next book to find out what we (!) are up against next.
http://pagemarks.wordpress.com/2012/0...
But once again she is overwhelmed with new information and tasks to be done: She discovers she has a twin, has to find the girl to make her half whole to save the world from dark fae and all this in only a few month...
Junior is back in town and faithful as ever, helping her find her twin and accompanying her on her quests.
Across the state they are once again encountering menacing Trimarks, who they later discover have burrowed deep into friendly territory. Allie's sister is more than reluctant to help them and when Allie gets kidnapped by two people she knows want to exploit her abilities the nailbiting hits its peak!
Introducing a kind of protective fairy to replace her ditsy guardian angel of sorts, a new adversary in form of a dark fairy disguised as a preacher that is dating Kizzy's reformed daughter and a cute homeless girl that follows them around, we not only get a whole new cast of loveable and hateable characters, but are as ever left with the questions of who they are and what role they will play in the story...
It is amazing how intricate and wide spun this tale leaves you feeling close to the characters and the action at all times. Brothers has done a fine job of spinning a tale that has you twisting and turning with the action and wanting more, always wanting more!!!
Cannot wait for the next book to find out what we (!) are up against next.
http://pagemarks.wordpress.com/2012/0...
February 26, 2013
In this, the fourth in the series: we are returned to the more “normal” life of Allie – working her way through the puzzle, and getting herself out of scrapes, usually of her own making. Also, Allie seems to find a bit more of herself in this installment, while the continual changes, questions, action and incessant attention from a flurry of boys seem to occasionally get her down, even as readers may find that exhausting.
With a new mystery to uncover, and a missing sister to find as part of the prophecy, this seemingly near never-ending quest and story is making a welcome return to the original premise of the story. With more of the ‘original’ Allie on view, her sharp wit, her caring, and the occasional (and not necessarily PC but wholly real feeling) descriptives used for friends, this installment has drawn me back into the fun adventure that highlights this series
While not delving into the background on the creatures and evil that they encounter, the sense of importance to fulfilling the prophecy and maintaining her friendships is never far from the surface throughout this installment, making this a fast-paced and fun read.
I received an eBook copy through NetGalley for purpose of honest review for the IOB Tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
With a new mystery to uncover, and a missing sister to find as part of the prophecy, this seemingly near never-ending quest and story is making a welcome return to the original premise of the story. With more of the ‘original’ Allie on view, her sharp wit, her caring, and the occasional (and not necessarily PC but wholly real feeling) descriptives used for friends, this installment has drawn me back into the fun adventure that highlights this series
While not delving into the background on the creatures and evil that they encounter, the sense of importance to fulfilling the prophecy and maintaining her friendships is never far from the surface throughout this installment, making this a fast-paced and fun read.
I received an eBook copy through NetGalley for purpose of honest review for the IOB Tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
July 18, 2012
School starts and Cory is back from boot-camp. He's hot and he's not an A-hole any more. Junior has returned (Yay!)between movies. Her dad has returned with info from Ireland and the Tuatha De Danann, from which he is descended from. They both are being protected by Teagan, a fae from the Tuatha Court. And we meet Sammie, who is traveling with/being used by Jessie (a dark fae) and Kizzy's daughter for food and shelter.
She is getting messages from The Trimarks, Trilby, and Fae to find the girl. Allie has tracked down her twin and now has to convince her to help her save the world. However, has her sister been spoiled by the Trimark that adopted her? Will she return home safe from her trip to see her sister? Will she find the girl? And why, in the good name of all that is holy, is the government suddenly wanting her to help "prevent" terrorism?
I'm happy Junior is back. Aahh, Latin lovah! I got one hell of a surprise when Allie is kidnapped! That's all I'm letting loose. That was a Holy Sh*t moment for me. I can't wait to get to the next book due out this fall, Midnight Moon. I really enjoy how much of a smart ass that Alllie is. I love that! Smart asses make the world fun =)
She is getting messages from The Trimarks, Trilby, and Fae to find the girl. Allie has tracked down her twin and now has to convince her to help her save the world. However, has her sister been spoiled by the Trimark that adopted her? Will she return home safe from her trip to see her sister? Will she find the girl? And why, in the good name of all that is holy, is the government suddenly wanting her to help "prevent" terrorism?
I'm happy Junior is back. Aahh, Latin lovah! I got one hell of a surprise when Allie is kidnapped! That's all I'm letting loose. That was a Holy Sh*t moment for me. I can't wait to get to the next book due out this fall, Midnight Moon. I really enjoy how much of a smart ass that Alllie is. I love that! Smart asses make the world fun =)
February 29, 2012
Shadow Moon by Marilee Brothers
4 STARS
Well I now have read the first 4 books in the Moonstone series I have learned their is a 5 and that will be the end. Hope it comes out soon can't wait to read it.
The story lines keep your attention and I did not want to stop reading the book.
Allie has found out she is a twin and sets out to find her twin. She has been told to find the girl and save the world by summer solist.
A fae is showing up and only Allie and her father can see him.
Junior is back for the holidays.
Thier is a weird preacher that is riling everyone against the supernatural world even though he is a dark fae. He threatens Allie and her family. Also on the preachers side is Carmen and a rich person backing him. They also have a singer and using her Sammy. Sammy and Allie have a connection too.
This series has been fun to read. The books don't have seens you want to skip over because of content. They have good characters and bad characters and some where bad but have changed for the better. Friends that stick by and help each other through tough times.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
Feb.,2012 PUB Bell Bridge Books
4 STARS
Well I now have read the first 4 books in the Moonstone series I have learned their is a 5 and that will be the end. Hope it comes out soon can't wait to read it.
The story lines keep your attention and I did not want to stop reading the book.
Allie has found out she is a twin and sets out to find her twin. She has been told to find the girl and save the world by summer solist.
A fae is showing up and only Allie and her father can see him.
Junior is back for the holidays.
Thier is a weird preacher that is riling everyone against the supernatural world even though he is a dark fae. He threatens Allie and her family. Also on the preachers side is Carmen and a rich person backing him. They also have a singer and using her Sammy. Sammy and Allie have a connection too.
This series has been fun to read. The books don't have seens you want to skip over because of content. They have good characters and bad characters and some where bad but have changed for the better. Friends that stick by and help each other through tough times.
I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
Feb.,2012 PUB Bell Bridge Books
September 18, 2015
Book #4 in Unbidden Magic.
If I have not told you already: dear reader: read these books in order. You'll be sorry you didn't. This is a very nice series, and it the details shouldn't be missed just because you're lazy.
Also, if must remind you that Ms. Brothers has crafted a very good series here. They are all solid threes for me. I am certain they were intended for the YA crowd, but older readers, such as myself, will find a lot of good reading here too. I think that says a lot about an author, if they can pull in several different age groups.
Allie has her hands full in this story. She has made several new discoveries about herself and her world; has discovered she not only has a twin, but also has faery blood; and her true love, Junior is set on winning her back. This story keeps getting better; I am going to be said to read the next and final book. I feel like Allie has grown so much from book one through this current book, and I feel close to her like my own sister. I may even feel a real sense of loss at the end of the series. Ms. Brothers has done this series (and Allie,) right. Looking forward to the conclusion.
Three stars.
If I have not told you already: dear reader: read these books in order. You'll be sorry you didn't. This is a very nice series, and it the details shouldn't be missed just because you're lazy.
Also, if must remind you that Ms. Brothers has crafted a very good series here. They are all solid threes for me. I am certain they were intended for the YA crowd, but older readers, such as myself, will find a lot of good reading here too. I think that says a lot about an author, if they can pull in several different age groups.
Allie has her hands full in this story. She has made several new discoveries about herself and her world; has discovered she not only has a twin, but also has faery blood; and her true love, Junior is set on winning her back. This story keeps getting better; I am going to be said to read the next and final book. I feel like Allie has grown so much from book one through this current book, and I feel close to her like my own sister. I may even feel a real sense of loss at the end of the series. Ms. Brothers has done this series (and Allie,) right. Looking forward to the conclusion.
Three stars.
March 1, 2012
I could not put this book down. The only bad part about this book is that it ended! I'm literally left hanging....What happens to Allie? I have a thousand different visions of how this is resolved in my head. I know Marilee Brothers is such an amazing author, none of my visions will be correct. She will come up with something unique and exciting!
This is the most current book in an incredible series. A truly unique series of paranormal beings. A believable heroine, full of teenage doubts and, at times, questionable self esteem. Allie 'find herself' in these books. We see her grow and mature throughout the series. She begins with "Can I do this?" and by book 4 she's thinking "Bring it on"! She meets all sorts of people from all walks of life. She has friendships with close buddies and experiences a few boy/girl relationships along the way.
As I said, a marvelous series. Each book is better than the one before it. I would recommend you read in the order written, to get the full impact of these amazing stories.
This is the most current book in an incredible series. A truly unique series of paranormal beings. A believable heroine, full of teenage doubts and, at times, questionable self esteem. Allie 'find herself' in these books. We see her grow and mature throughout the series. She begins with "Can I do this?" and by book 4 she's thinking "Bring it on"! She meets all sorts of people from all walks of life. She has friendships with close buddies and experiences a few boy/girl relationships along the way.
As I said, a marvelous series. Each book is better than the one before it. I would recommend you read in the order written, to get the full impact of these amazing stories.
March 29, 2012
The good thing is, the whole every-boy-loving-Allie thing has calmed down. It's all about Junior in this book, which is a major plus 'cos I liked Junior from the start. I thought Allie may have ended up with Beck but that thing sailed a while ago.
This time around we see Allie search for her sister and try to get her help in saving the world, bit of a big thing to put on someone's shoulders on your first meeting. Of course, in Allie style, nothing goes to plan. More Trimarks appear, dark faes turn up and new things come out of the woodwork.
I really did enjoy this series. I received the whole series as a whole from the publishers through Netgalley so I was lucky enough to get to read them all at once but I now have to wait to see if there is even going to be a 5th book in this series. I really, really hope there will be 'cos I'm looking forward to seeing what will happen with Allie and co.
This time around we see Allie search for her sister and try to get her help in saving the world, bit of a big thing to put on someone's shoulders on your first meeting. Of course, in Allie style, nothing goes to plan. More Trimarks appear, dark faes turn up and new things come out of the woodwork.
I really did enjoy this series. I received the whole series as a whole from the publishers through Netgalley so I was lucky enough to get to read them all at once but I now have to wait to see if there is even going to be a 5th book in this series. I really, really hope there will be 'cos I'm looking forward to seeing what will happen with Allie and co.
February 5, 2013
I received this book free from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
After the shocker ending from the third book, I was really excited to find out what happened in Allie's search for her lost twin. Along with this story, we are introduced to a new and wonderful character named Sammie, that I really loved. More excitement and suspense comes about and I was just literally glued to the book, turning page after page to see how it would all end. Out of all the books so far, this one ends with the most cliffhanger ending of all of them and definitely leaves me shocked and asking questions. Thank goodness I won't have to wait long to read the fifth and final one! Unfortunately, since the fifth is the final, I feel a little sadness knowing once it's over, I will have to leave this magical world!
After the shocker ending from the third book, I was really excited to find out what happened in Allie's search for her lost twin. Along with this story, we are introduced to a new and wonderful character named Sammie, that I really loved. More excitement and suspense comes about and I was just literally glued to the book, turning page after page to see how it would all end. Out of all the books so far, this one ends with the most cliffhanger ending of all of them and definitely leaves me shocked and asking questions. Thank goodness I won't have to wait long to read the fifth and final one! Unfortunately, since the fifth is the final, I feel a little sadness knowing once it's over, I will have to leave this magical world!
June 6, 2012
Thank you to Net Galley for providing me my copy to read and review. This story just gets more and more complicated as we learn more about Allie's destiny and the power of the Moonstone. This book had more of Junior but very little of Ryker which was a little disappointing since I think he is cool. I really could have done without the addition of a twin into the picture. I really felt it was superfluous. I really liked the addition of Sammie though and thought the twist at the end of the story was interesting. I am looking forward to learning more in the next installment of the series.
May 17, 2012
SPOILER ALERT: Allie had a very busy summer, between fighting to help her grandmother save the fairy kingdom, Boundless, and learning she has a twin – oops, did I forget to mention that? Yep, she has a twin she never knew about. Having to give up that twin is what sent her mom, Faye, into such a tailspin. Read my review of all 4 books in the Unbidden Magic series at http://popcornreads.com/?p=3897.
March 14, 2013
"Shadow Moon" is the fourth book in the series. With a fast paced plot, losing a character but gaining a new character and the twists and turns, Marilee does it again in her unique writing. I love this series and wish it would never end. A fun read for all but I do suggest reading the books in order so your up to date.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
November 8, 2012
I didn't know this was a middle of a series book, but that was obvious from the first few pages. What was also obvious was the fact that the author couldn't be bothered to edit her own book. In the first few pages, she misspells a main character's name a dozen times! Also obvious to me, was that I was not going to enjoy this one, so I put it down.
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