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Ivy MacTavish #1
The Book of Lost Souls
When teen witch Ivy MacTavish changes a lizard into her date for a Halloween dance, everything turns to chaos. And when no one is powerful enough to transform him back except Ivy, it sparks the Like father, like daughter. Ivy has heard it all before - that her father, who left when she was seven – was involved with the darkest of magic. Making the rumors worse, someone uses an evil spell book to bring back two of history's most nefarious killers. Ivy's got a simple plan to set things find the real dark spell caster, steal the book, and reverse the spell. No problem! But she’ll have to deal with something more dangerous than murderous spirits that want her and her friends the school’s resident bad boy and hotter-than-brimstone demon, Nick Marcelli. Nick’s offering Ivy more than his help with recovering the missing book – he’s offering her a way to ditch her scaly reputation as a lizard-lover. Demons are about as hard to handle as black magic, and as Ivy soon discovers, it’s going to take more than a lot of luck and a little charm if she wants to survive long enough to clear her status as a dark witch, get a warm-blooded boyfriend, and have her former date back to eating meal worms before the week’s end.
296 pages, Paperback
First published March 6, 2011
34 people are currently reading
2866 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Muto
8 books1,242 followersWriter of urban fantasy, the paranormal, and all things eerie and curious. Lover of scary books and funny movies, sports cars, chocolate, and changes of season. Owned by two incredible dogs and an iMac. Author, wife, sister, freelance tech writer, and IT geek.
Author of the bestselling novel The Haunting Season, The Book of Lost Souls, Don't Fear the Reaper, Nature's Fifth Season Of Shadow & Stone, and Diary of the Damned.
. Read the 1st chapter of Don't Fear the Reaper here.
Join her mailing list and read NATURE'S FIFTH SEASON for FREE!
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Author of the bestselling novel The Haunting Season, The Book of Lost Souls, Don't Fear the Reaper, Nature's Fifth Season Of Shadow & Stone, and Diary of the Damned.
. Read the 1st chapter of Don't Fear the Reaper here.
Join her mailing list and read NATURE'S FIFTH SEASON for FREE!
http://smarturl.it/MMuto-News
FB Author Page
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
April 17, 2011
I was pulled to this book multiple times by the fantastic cover alone, and the description on Amazon clinched it for me. For less than the cost of a latte, I was treated to a great paranormal YA read. I do have to qualify that I don't normal read YA unless it pushes the boundaries into adult fiction. However, The Book of Lost Souls was a pleasant, refreshing surprise.
The Book of Lost souls is PG enough for the younger YA audience, yet still an intriguing and complex enough of a book to satisfy adults as well. The surrounding cast of characters is eclectic and fun, the interactions between characters is spot on. Although this book has a classic struggle between good and evil, it is one that skirts the gray area in between with finesse and insight.
Michelle Muto is a first class writer with a flair for creative and original ideas. I mean really, a senile werewolf! Little gems like that are sprinkled throughout this book, and Muto has turned out an original novel in a time when the paranormal market is saturated with stereotypical plotting and devices. This book is not one of those carbon copies and I will certainly be on the lookout for the next book from Muto!
The Book of Lost souls is PG enough for the younger YA audience, yet still an intriguing and complex enough of a book to satisfy adults as well. The surrounding cast of characters is eclectic and fun, the interactions between characters is spot on. Although this book has a classic struggle between good and evil, it is one that skirts the gray area in between with finesse and insight.
Michelle Muto is a first class writer with a flair for creative and original ideas. I mean really, a senile werewolf! Little gems like that are sprinkled throughout this book, and Muto has turned out an original novel in a time when the paranormal market is saturated with stereotypical plotting and devices. This book is not one of those carbon copies and I will certainly be on the lookout for the next book from Muto!
January 28, 2012
Really, really enjoyed this book. It's another self-pubbed book that I can't understand why it didn't find an agent or publishing home. Sighs...the biz.
I loved all the different supernatural characters being part of our good witch Ivy's life. I loved the opening with her needing a date for the dance and changing Spike from a lizard to a hot model. Lots of humor interspersed in the novel.
Great chemistry with Nick and Ivy. I was hoping she'd get her act together to see how much he really cared for her verses her infatuation with Dean.
I look forward to the next book in the series!
I loved all the different supernatural characters being part of our good witch Ivy's life. I loved the opening with her needing a date for the dance and changing Spike from a lizard to a hot model. Lots of humor interspersed in the novel.
Great chemistry with Nick and Ivy. I was hoping she'd get her act together to see how much he really cared for her verses her infatuation with Dean.
I look forward to the next book in the series!
January 14, 2012
Maybe closer to 2.5 stars...maybe.
I had totally forgotten that I even had this book sitting in my Kindle waiting for me, until I had begun a search for a read I knew would be satisfying. I'm pretty sick of this streak I've been on with books and I just wanted a story that would take me away. I thought this one might be pretty funny since it says she turned a lizard into a date, and there was humor in here sometimes, but mostly I found myself very annoyed with the lack of consistency in details both major and minor. So much so that I took almost 40 notes, and 16 pages of highlighted scenes. Most of the notes point out the little inconsistencies, but several simply say WTF.
Everything starts when Ivy, the witch, decides to make her friend's lizard human to be her date to a school dance, instead of going with Nick who had asked her twice before. She goes on this mental tangent about how she can't trust him because his father was friends with her father, and he is trouble because he's a demon and a player. I thought it was pretty weak, but whatever. I assume only about 30 minutes (but probably less) pass at the dance before everything goes haywire. Let me make a side note real quick right now. I had the impression that this was a town in which the humans (called Regulars *eye roll*) were all aware of the supernatural, AKA Kindred *eye roll*, but come to find out they don't. That would be because the mysterious council (comprised of what races I'll never know, although I assume "spell castors", but wouldn't a governing body of supernaturals need representatives from all races?) goes around erasing people's memories left right and center. Or so it is assumed. There is even an acronym given for the use of magic; PDMA-Public Display of Magical Ability, and how the Kindred tried to curb doing it so as to keep with peace with Regulars. They say they don't want to upset the Regulars and have them be envious of the fact that they don't really need gas to run their cars, or do anything manual, but also to avoid another battle between the races. There isn't too much on the battle mentioned really, and I disregarded it after a bit.
Anyway, sorry, so I was saying that they are all at the dance when a "senile" werewolf just happens to waltz in and plop down on the dance floor with a human bone is his mouth. This turns out to be her friends' uncle, and they go to get the bone out of his mouth while the Regulars commence to freaking out. Running for the exits, wondering if they'll be chewed up next, and just generally acting like they're all going to die.
"The remaining Regulars continued to scream and race around in circles. Every Kindred capable of magic was busy hurling Calming spells, Cloaking spells, Memory Spells--anything to regain control of the situation. Tables and chairs were sent flying, sending drinks and snacks everywhere.
Raven's observation that the Regulars had lost it was an understatement.
Most of the Regulars who lived in Northwick for any length of time were used to a lot of strange things. Usually, they chose to ignore it, or maybe they didn't see it, no one knew for certain. Regulars had a way of seeing only what they wanted. At least that's what many of the Kindreds thought."
So I guess I just didn't understand why there was supposed to be all this secrecy with something and human's memories had to be wiped, because after this part (7% through) there is instances left, right, and center of people arbitrarily using magic in full view of anyone. It really got on my nerves. I would have much preferred to think that the whole town was aware and got along the way townspeople do, but no. Instead there are witches, weres, vampires (oh and Raven and her family only drink from dead people...), zombies-yes really, as well as demons, and trolls all live in secret in such a small town. There is even a witches spell casting practice club, and Ivy opens her locker with a flick of her fingers, Nick makes lights flicker and lockers rumble when he walks away in a huff, a teacher even casts a spell from a school window.
Another thing that really got to me was Ivy. I found her to be really annoying and immature and wanted to slap her around several times. Even just thinking of the plethora of material I can provide to illustrate why I found her so annoying annoys me, haha. She just can't seem to make a single good decision or act with any maturity when faced with issues that are so obviously over her head, and not her business, or place, to mess around with.
The one thing I found myself really enjoying was Nick. He is a great character! I would have liked to have more of him, and it wouldn't have to be just with Ivy either. He was funny, charming, mischievous, and good looking. He was also much more mature than Ivy. It's because of him that I give that extra half star. Here are two of the highlights I saved from him:
"But Ives," he said softly, "We both know that right now, I'm just what you need."
He stopped, but didn't pull forward. "I can't wait for you forever, Ivy. Even if you're worth it."
I found myself doing a lot of skimming and re-reading parts because my mind would wonder so often. There were several small errors that caught my attention and normally I notice very little of that. There was two big things that were never address, or resolved, that I am pretty annoyed about as well. At one point there is a big "fight" scene (I'm not sure what else could describe it....rescue gone bad scene?), and Dean (the boy that Ivy thought was the be-all-end-all) threatens to get Spike somehow to punish him, but he isn't even in the story after this part (that I can remember). Also there is a character called Phoebe who was an ex of Nicks, and at one point she and Ivy get into a spell-casting fight--out in the open--and she threatens Ivy pretty good. She isn't brought up again at all.
In fact, the climax and big showdown kind of made me scratch my head. Her best friend and dog are kidnapped and held ransom and Ivy worries way more about her dog than her friend. I'm guessing I'm just some horrible person because I didn't understand how the entire time all this stuff is happening the one thing she gets homicidal about is for her dog. I had a flashback to the Wizard Of Oz when at one point her dog is threatened (which was the threat of the hour, and seemed to be the only one that impacted her), and I kept waiting for him to say "I'll get you my pretty! And your little dog too!" Here is a direct quote from Ivy during this showdown: He had tried to kill Devlin. For that alone, he had to die. This from the girl who tries so hard to not be like her father who practiced black magic. At another point her dog is showing her a tunnel to go through so she can find her best friend, and she balks because there might be bugs in it. Meanwhile the people holding her friend are murderers. Even the reunion with the dog is more emotional than with her friends. In the end all she is happy about is her love life, and not the revelation unveiled during the climax, or the worry over her morals.
This is way longer than I wanted to write so I am going to just say that this book was ok, and maybe it's just me that got annoyed so much, and not so much that it is a bad story.
I had totally forgotten that I even had this book sitting in my Kindle waiting for me, until I had begun a search for a read I knew would be satisfying. I'm pretty sick of this streak I've been on with books and I just wanted a story that would take me away. I thought this one might be pretty funny since it says she turned a lizard into a date, and there was humor in here sometimes, but mostly I found myself very annoyed with the lack of consistency in details both major and minor. So much so that I took almost 40 notes, and 16 pages of highlighted scenes. Most of the notes point out the little inconsistencies, but several simply say WTF.
Everything starts when Ivy, the witch, decides to make her friend's lizard human to be her date to a school dance, instead of going with Nick who had asked her twice before. She goes on this mental tangent about how she can't trust him because his father was friends with her father, and he is trouble because he's a demon and a player. I thought it was pretty weak, but whatever. I assume only about 30 minutes (but probably less) pass at the dance before everything goes haywire. Let me make a side note real quick right now. I had the impression that this was a town in which the humans (called Regulars *eye roll*) were all aware of the supernatural, AKA Kindred *eye roll*, but come to find out they don't. That would be because the mysterious council (comprised of what races I'll never know, although I assume "spell castors", but wouldn't a governing body of supernaturals need representatives from all races?) goes around erasing people's memories left right and center. Or so it is assumed. There is even an acronym given for the use of magic; PDMA-Public Display of Magical Ability, and how the Kindred tried to curb doing it so as to keep with peace with Regulars. They say they don't want to upset the Regulars and have them be envious of the fact that they don't really need gas to run their cars, or do anything manual, but also to avoid another battle between the races. There isn't too much on the battle mentioned really, and I disregarded it after a bit.
Anyway, sorry, so I was saying that they are all at the dance when a "senile" werewolf just happens to waltz in and plop down on the dance floor with a human bone is his mouth. This turns out to be her friends' uncle, and they go to get the bone out of his mouth while the Regulars commence to freaking out. Running for the exits, wondering if they'll be chewed up next, and just generally acting like they're all going to die.
"The remaining Regulars continued to scream and race around in circles. Every Kindred capable of magic was busy hurling Calming spells, Cloaking spells, Memory Spells--anything to regain control of the situation. Tables and chairs were sent flying, sending drinks and snacks everywhere.
Raven's observation that the Regulars had lost it was an understatement.
Most of the Regulars who lived in Northwick for any length of time were used to a lot of strange things. Usually, they chose to ignore it, or maybe they didn't see it, no one knew for certain. Regulars had a way of seeing only what they wanted. At least that's what many of the Kindreds thought."
So I guess I just didn't understand why there was supposed to be all this secrecy with something and human's memories had to be wiped, because after this part (7% through) there is instances left, right, and center of people arbitrarily using magic in full view of anyone. It really got on my nerves. I would have much preferred to think that the whole town was aware and got along the way townspeople do, but no. Instead there are witches, weres, vampires (oh and Raven and her family only drink from dead people...), zombies-yes really, as well as demons, and trolls all live in secret in such a small town. There is even a witches spell casting practice club, and Ivy opens her locker with a flick of her fingers, Nick makes lights flicker and lockers rumble when he walks away in a huff, a teacher even casts a spell from a school window.
Another thing that really got to me was Ivy. I found her to be really annoying and immature and wanted to slap her around several times. Even just thinking of the plethora of material I can provide to illustrate why I found her so annoying annoys me, haha. She just can't seem to make a single good decision or act with any maturity when faced with issues that are so obviously over her head, and not her business, or place, to mess around with.
The one thing I found myself really enjoying was Nick. He is a great character! I would have liked to have more of him, and it wouldn't have to be just with Ivy either. He was funny, charming, mischievous, and good looking. He was also much more mature than Ivy. It's because of him that I give that extra half star. Here are two of the highlights I saved from him:
"But Ives," he said softly, "We both know that right now, I'm just what you need."
He stopped, but didn't pull forward. "I can't wait for you forever, Ivy. Even if you're worth it."
I found myself doing a lot of skimming and re-reading parts because my mind would wonder so often. There were several small errors that caught my attention and normally I notice very little of that. There was two big things that were never address, or resolved, that I am pretty annoyed about as well. At one point there is a big "fight" scene (I'm not sure what else could describe it....rescue gone bad scene?), and Dean (the boy that Ivy thought was the be-all-end-all) threatens to get Spike somehow to punish him, but he isn't even in the story after this part (that I can remember). Also there is a character called Phoebe who was an ex of Nicks, and at one point she and Ivy get into a spell-casting fight--out in the open--and she threatens Ivy pretty good. She isn't brought up again at all.
In fact, the climax and big showdown kind of made me scratch my head. Her best friend and dog are kidnapped and held ransom and Ivy worries way more about her dog than her friend. I'm guessing I'm just some horrible person because I didn't understand how the entire time all this stuff is happening the one thing she gets homicidal about is for her dog. I had a flashback to the Wizard Of Oz when at one point her dog is threatened (which was the threat of the hour, and seemed to be the only one that impacted her), and I kept waiting for him to say "I'll get you my pretty! And your little dog too!" Here is a direct quote from Ivy during this showdown: He had tried to kill Devlin. For that alone, he had to die. This from the girl who tries so hard to not be like her father who practiced black magic. At another point her dog is showing her a tunnel to go through so she can find her best friend, and she balks because there might be bugs in it. Meanwhile the people holding her friend are murderers. Even the reunion with the dog is more emotional than with her friends. In the end all she is happy about is her love life, and not the revelation unveiled during the climax, or the worry over her morals.
This is way longer than I wanted to write so I am going to just say that this book was ok, and maybe it's just me that got annoyed so much, and not so much that it is a bad story.
July 17, 2024
“The only lost thing was the soul that wrote this”-Ana
It’s honestly my own fault that I read this bc my idiot brain read “lizard-lover” and still gave this book the benefit of the doubt.
Actual rating 0,5/5⭐️
It’s honestly my own fault that I read this bc my idiot brain read “lizard-lover” and still gave this book the benefit of the doubt.
Actual rating 0,5/5⭐️
April 16, 2012
This book may not have been what you thought you wanted, but right now it’s exactly what you need so says Ivy MacTavish, and I’m not arguing with her, because she’s a witch.
Ivy is 16 going on 17 and spends her time casting spells and hanging out with her best friends from Northwick High, Shayde, a werewolf and Raven, a vampire. With her fire-breathing Beezlepup, Devlin, growling at her side and her Mom, who is also a witch too, nagging in her ear, all Ivy has to think about is who she’d rather go out with – the perfect, yet unattainable, Dean or demonic, bad boy, Nick. She even tries to make Dean jealous by transforming a pet lizard into a hunk and parading him at a Halloween party, but that all changes when Shayde’s Uncle Lucas turns up with a human bone in his mouth! Kindreds (supernatural beings) and Regulars (human beings) have co-existed in relative harmony in Northwick for many years but all that is about to change.
After spotting a mysterious stranger in a black coat in the cemetery where Uncle Lucas dug up the bone, Ivy and the gang find a bundle of books at the side of the disturbed grave. Ivy quickly learns not to judge these books by their covers as their powerful black magic takes hold of her.
Dark forces are rising in Northwick and whilst Ivy and her friends investigate the mystery surrounding these books, she juggles dating, jealous girlfriends and tracking down Spike, the lizard, who has no wish to return to his terrarium, just yet.
Murder, evil spirits, weird teachers, cars fuelled by magic, walking trees with eyelids, gossip queens and trolls are just some of the highlights that Northwick offers its residents and I’d like to announce that I will be moving there shortly as it really got under my skin.
A really clever concept with engaging and humorous characters develops into a fantastic supernatural mystery-adventure. This debut novel had all the atmosphere and character of a revamped Buffy and I found its quirky sense of humour, vivid characters and absorbing relationships took me back to fond memories of Sunnydale. It’s of course impossible to say that anything can compare to Joss Whedon’s iconic TV series, which will always be one of my all time favourites, but Muto’s Northwick managed to transport me back there somehow; with a sprinkling of Ivy’s magic, perhaps?
Also available by Michelle Muto – Don’t Fear the Reaper.
Ivy is 16 going on 17 and spends her time casting spells and hanging out with her best friends from Northwick High, Shayde, a werewolf and Raven, a vampire. With her fire-breathing Beezlepup, Devlin, growling at her side and her Mom, who is also a witch too, nagging in her ear, all Ivy has to think about is who she’d rather go out with – the perfect, yet unattainable, Dean or demonic, bad boy, Nick. She even tries to make Dean jealous by transforming a pet lizard into a hunk and parading him at a Halloween party, but that all changes when Shayde’s Uncle Lucas turns up with a human bone in his mouth! Kindreds (supernatural beings) and Regulars (human beings) have co-existed in relative harmony in Northwick for many years but all that is about to change.
After spotting a mysterious stranger in a black coat in the cemetery where Uncle Lucas dug up the bone, Ivy and the gang find a bundle of books at the side of the disturbed grave. Ivy quickly learns not to judge these books by their covers as their powerful black magic takes hold of her.
Dark forces are rising in Northwick and whilst Ivy and her friends investigate the mystery surrounding these books, she juggles dating, jealous girlfriends and tracking down Spike, the lizard, who has no wish to return to his terrarium, just yet.
Murder, evil spirits, weird teachers, cars fuelled by magic, walking trees with eyelids, gossip queens and trolls are just some of the highlights that Northwick offers its residents and I’d like to announce that I will be moving there shortly as it really got under my skin.
A really clever concept with engaging and humorous characters develops into a fantastic supernatural mystery-adventure. This debut novel had all the atmosphere and character of a revamped Buffy and I found its quirky sense of humour, vivid characters and absorbing relationships took me back to fond memories of Sunnydale. It’s of course impossible to say that anything can compare to Joss Whedon’s iconic TV series, which will always be one of my all time favourites, but Muto’s Northwick managed to transport me back there somehow; with a sprinkling of Ivy’s magic, perhaps?
Also available by Michelle Muto – Don’t Fear the Reaper.
June 17, 2011
I love Michelle's work and have followed it for a while, so I was over the moon when her book was published and she asked me to review it. This book did not fail to disappoint, it was everything I could hope for, excitement, magic, mystery, hot guys and witches.
The plot is a real page turner, it will keep you riveted until it is finished and yet leave you wanting more. I could fully relate to the characters who intertwined with each other perfectly. There are so many funny moments in this book, which will leave you smiling to yourself or giving out a little laugh, it really is a pleasure to read. However it wasn't all fun and light, there is mystery, a complicated love life and a strained relationship.
The book is based in a small town called Nothwick, where all sorts of supernaturals live amongst humans. The main character is a young girl called Ivy, who is a witch. Her father is into Dark magic, which she is tempted with at times. She's in that between stage, starting to mature but still young. I think she is a great main character, one you could relate to as a teen or your inner teen.
Ivy is a "kindred" teen, which means anything that is supernatural in The Book of Lost Souls, it is hard enough being a teenager without using dark magic to get a date. Then the hot, smoking, bad boy Nick, who's a demon offers her a chance to have it all. Will she take it and risk everything? I for one was routing for Nick. He's a great character.
I think Ivy is a great role model for any YA, she makes mistakes, as we all do, but she learns from them. She is also a loyal friend, which is reciprocated. This book is the classic struggle between good and evil, but not predictable. It's a dark book, but a light and fun read.
I would highly recommend this book, it's a fun and excellent read with a great original plot, which will keep you transfixed until the very end. I for one cannot wait to read the sequel, if there is one. Please, may there be one.
The plot is a real page turner, it will keep you riveted until it is finished and yet leave you wanting more. I could fully relate to the characters who intertwined with each other perfectly. There are so many funny moments in this book, which will leave you smiling to yourself or giving out a little laugh, it really is a pleasure to read. However it wasn't all fun and light, there is mystery, a complicated love life and a strained relationship.
The book is based in a small town called Nothwick, where all sorts of supernaturals live amongst humans. The main character is a young girl called Ivy, who is a witch. Her father is into Dark magic, which she is tempted with at times. She's in that between stage, starting to mature but still young. I think she is a great main character, one you could relate to as a teen or your inner teen.
Ivy is a "kindred" teen, which means anything that is supernatural in The Book of Lost Souls, it is hard enough being a teenager without using dark magic to get a date. Then the hot, smoking, bad boy Nick, who's a demon offers her a chance to have it all. Will she take it and risk everything? I for one was routing for Nick. He's a great character.
I think Ivy is a great role model for any YA, she makes mistakes, as we all do, but she learns from them. She is also a loyal friend, which is reciprocated. This book is the classic struggle between good and evil, but not predictable. It's a dark book, but a light and fun read.
I would highly recommend this book, it's a fun and excellent read with a great original plot, which will keep you transfixed until the very end. I for one cannot wait to read the sequel, if there is one. Please, may there be one.
May 31, 2011
The Book of Lost Souls- Michele Muto
Hands down The Book of Lost Souls is the best independently published e-book I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Often readers think that indie books mean they weren’t good enough for a publishing house, but The Book of Lost Souls destroys that theory. With interesting characters, a formidable plot, and good writing, Muto’s book is sure to win a strong following in the YA community. In the end, it reminded me a bit of Heather Brewer’s Chronicle of Vladamir Tod, an enviable comparison to be sure. In addition, it’s low price point makes this e-book a STEAL!
Overall: A-
Hands down The Book of Lost Souls is the best independently published e-book I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Often readers think that indie books mean they weren’t good enough for a publishing house, but The Book of Lost Souls destroys that theory. With interesting characters, a formidable plot, and good writing, Muto’s book is sure to win a strong following in the YA community. In the end, it reminded me a bit of Heather Brewer’s Chronicle of Vladamir Tod, an enviable comparison to be sure. In addition, it’s low price point makes this e-book a STEAL!
Overall: A-
March 29, 2011
Genius! Check out my video review of this book here;http://indiebookreview.blogspot.com/2...
February 10, 2024
Trying to finish my physical tbr. Did not expect much but it was a lovely book!! 3.5 ⭐️
March 21, 2024
This book was so much fun to read!!! I would recommend it🫶🏻
May 25, 2023
3.25⭐️
November 8, 2012
*4.5 stars*
When Ivy, a very talented young witch, uses a spell to transform her friend’s lizard Spike into a date for the school dance, things don’t go exactly as planned and hilarity ensues! As punishment, she and her friends have to clean up an old section of the cemetery. But things go from funny to pretty serious when Ivy discovers that someone has left two books in the cemetery, one being The Rise of the Dark Curse (a book that is pure black magic), and she’s pretty sure they were intended for her. But who would want her to have these books, and does the fact that she’s so drawn to this book mean she truly is her father’s daughter? Even more important, why is the most dangerous book of all, The Book of Lost Souls, missing? When a gruesome murder occurs in town, Ivy realizes she has much more crucial things to worry about than her missing lizard date… like finding out who is behind the killings and trying to stop them before they can kill again.
The Book of Lost Souls is a fantastic read! It’s funny, exciting, sweet, and mysterious. I really enjoyed reading about Ivy and her equally fascinating, sleuthing group of friends, which happens to include vampires, werewolves, and Nick… one deliciously handsome demon.
“‘What do you want, Nick?’
The corner of Nick’s mouth eased into a grin
that made Ivy’s insides somersault unexpectedly.
‘You,’ he said without breaking eye contact.”
***************************
“‘Look, Ivy. I may not be who you end up with.
I’m not even who you think you want.
But, Ives,’ he said softly,
‘We both know that right now, I’m just what you need.’”
Holy charming, swoon-worthy demon! That boy is yummy!
While The Book of Lost Souls is the big baddie that holds the group’s focus, it was The Rise of The Dark Curse that gave me the heebie-jeebies. Any book that whispers to me is going straight into the freezer, Joey Tribbiani-style.
“‘Rejoice! She’s back. Little one loves us.’
The voices murmur.
‘Little one is starting to see, just like her father.’”
Can Ivy fight the pull of these voices and the temptation of dark magic? Or will she succumb to it much like her father did?
On a personal note, it's no secret that I love sharing books with my daughter, but since she’s only thirteen, a lot of YA books still contain content that I consider inappropriate for her age. One of my favorite aspects of The Book of Lost Souls is that it’s not too mature for her, but mature enough for me to enjoy. This truly is a book for all ages! Combine that with the fact that my kiddo is a huge lizard aficionado (shudders), and I know she is going to adore Spike and all of his shenanigans.
Michelle Muto is an amazingly talented author, and I can’t wait to read more of her work.
Full review at A Belle's Tales
When Ivy, a very talented young witch, uses a spell to transform her friend’s lizard Spike into a date for the school dance, things don’t go exactly as planned and hilarity ensues! As punishment, she and her friends have to clean up an old section of the cemetery. But things go from funny to pretty serious when Ivy discovers that someone has left two books in the cemetery, one being The Rise of the Dark Curse (a book that is pure black magic), and she’s pretty sure they were intended for her. But who would want her to have these books, and does the fact that she’s so drawn to this book mean she truly is her father’s daughter? Even more important, why is the most dangerous book of all, The Book of Lost Souls, missing? When a gruesome murder occurs in town, Ivy realizes she has much more crucial things to worry about than her missing lizard date… like finding out who is behind the killings and trying to stop them before they can kill again.
The Book of Lost Souls is a fantastic read! It’s funny, exciting, sweet, and mysterious. I really enjoyed reading about Ivy and her equally fascinating, sleuthing group of friends, which happens to include vampires, werewolves, and Nick… one deliciously handsome demon.
“‘What do you want, Nick?’
The corner of Nick’s mouth eased into a grin
that made Ivy’s insides somersault unexpectedly.
‘You,’ he said without breaking eye contact.”
***************************
“‘Look, Ivy. I may not be who you end up with.
I’m not even who you think you want.
But, Ives,’ he said softly,
‘We both know that right now, I’m just what you need.’”
Holy charming, swoon-worthy demon! That boy is yummy!
While The Book of Lost Souls is the big baddie that holds the group’s focus, it was The Rise of The Dark Curse that gave me the heebie-jeebies. Any book that whispers to me is going straight into the freezer, Joey Tribbiani-style.
“‘Rejoice! She’s back. Little one loves us.’
The voices murmur.
‘Little one is starting to see, just like her father.’”
Can Ivy fight the pull of these voices and the temptation of dark magic? Or will she succumb to it much like her father did?
On a personal note, it's no secret that I love sharing books with my daughter, but since she’s only thirteen, a lot of YA books still contain content that I consider inappropriate for her age. One of my favorite aspects of The Book of Lost Souls is that it’s not too mature for her, but mature enough for me to enjoy. This truly is a book for all ages! Combine that with the fact that my kiddo is a huge lizard aficionado (shudders), and I know she is going to adore Spike and all of his shenanigans.
Michelle Muto is an amazingly talented author, and I can’t wait to read more of her work.
Full review at A Belle's Tales
February 10, 2017
What I Liked: 1) This is teen fiction at it's finest. Miz Muto knows teens well enough to have been able to write them incredible realistically. I could easily have seen these kids at my high school, or any high school, really. That was one of the first things I noticed about the story, was how realistic the characters felt. 2) There are so many books out there is seems that have these awesome paranormal characters that hate each other! You know what I'm saying, the vampires don't get along with the werewolves, and so on and so forth. Well, get ready for some old school teamwork in this book. It was great to see a story where these characters got along in this, global paranormal community. 3) I love, love, loved how some historical villains were brought into the story. In fact, I would have liked to see even more. At one point, we've got Vlad the Impaler running around with Elizabeth Bathory and it was awesome in a creepy way. 4) This book kept me hooked from beginning to end. There were interesting things happening on every single page, and I didn't want to stop reading until I knew what was going to happen! 5) I liked the concepts of the Kindreds and the Regulars. I'm not going to explain it, you'll have to read it to find out, but it intrigued me in a way few books do. 6) I guessed the ending, but it wasn't for lack of plot twists and turns. It's definitely not one of those jump out and smack you in the face kind of endings. More like one of those where you are like, "oh, man! I knew it was gonna be *so and so*." 7) I like demons. <---Nick. Heh. 8) I like to talk about how talented writers are, and Miz Muto is no exception. There was so much going on in this story that it had to potential to become disjointed and convoluted. However, the concise writing and excellent flow made everything come together very cleanly and wasn't at all confusing.
What I Didn't Like: 1) One small thing is that it took me a while to figure out if the non-magical community knew about the magical community. It took a while for that to really become clear to me as a reader. And I'm the type of person who gets distracted by questions like that. (ooo...something shiny!)
Overall thoughts: This is an absolute must to put on your list of Halloween reads. (Aside from the characters being witches and vampires and werewolves and so on, it's also set in the days leading up to Halloween!) There was so much going on in this story, that it just captures the imagination and runs with it. Add this one to your TBR list, stat!
See this and other fun reviews at Fuzzy.Coffee.Books!
What I Didn't Like: 1) One small thing is that it took me a while to figure out if the non-magical community knew about the magical community. It took a while for that to really become clear to me as a reader. And I'm the type of person who gets distracted by questions like that. (ooo...something shiny!)
Overall thoughts: This is an absolute must to put on your list of Halloween reads. (Aside from the characters being witches and vampires and werewolves and so on, it's also set in the days leading up to Halloween!) There was so much going on in this story, that it just captures the imagination and runs with it. Add this one to your TBR list, stat!
See this and other fun reviews at Fuzzy.Coffee.Books!
June 12, 2011
Michelle Muto's Book of Lost Souls was a great YA read for many reasons. There may be some parents who turn this book down for their YA to read simply because the main characters are witches, demons, vampires, werewolves, and other super natural beings, but that would be a unfortunate mistake. The main focus and lesson of this story depends on none of these things.
Ivy is a typical teenage girl. She is crazy about a boy who seems to not know that she even exists. She has very loyal friends who she is very loyal to in return. She makes some very serious mistakes and takes some wrong turns along the way, but she learns from them and they make her stronger and a better person in the end. Who couldn't benefit from a story like this one?
Michelle brings this all together in a wonderful way. Ivy is a very passionate young woman who has had a hard time coming to terms with the fact that her dad is gone. Because of the circumstances behind his leaving Ivy and her mother, she also has a hard time trusting anyone who seems remotely like him. There is also the fear that she is just like him, which is a fear shared by others throughout her childhood. Basically it is the love and support of her friends that help Ivy overcome these fears, and help her to move beyond them.
There was enough action, suspense, budding romance and mystery in this story to please just about everyone. The mythology of all of the supernatural beings involved fit with the characters in the story flawlessly.
In closing, I must confess that I did win this book and didn't purchase it. It was, however, a book that I had been following and intended to purchase regardless. At the price that it is currently offered at Amazon, it might as well be free and is well worth the dollar amount for the experience.
I am very happy that Michelle intends to continue Ivy's story. There are many places that the characters can go from where The Book of Lost Souls left off.
If you are looking for a story with strong characters, a great life lesson, with a little humor, mystery, action and magic mixed in, The Book of Lost Souls will not disappoint.
Ivy is a typical teenage girl. She is crazy about a boy who seems to not know that she even exists. She has very loyal friends who she is very loyal to in return. She makes some very serious mistakes and takes some wrong turns along the way, but she learns from them and they make her stronger and a better person in the end. Who couldn't benefit from a story like this one?
Michelle brings this all together in a wonderful way. Ivy is a very passionate young woman who has had a hard time coming to terms with the fact that her dad is gone. Because of the circumstances behind his leaving Ivy and her mother, she also has a hard time trusting anyone who seems remotely like him. There is also the fear that she is just like him, which is a fear shared by others throughout her childhood. Basically it is the love and support of her friends that help Ivy overcome these fears, and help her to move beyond them.
There was enough action, suspense, budding romance and mystery in this story to please just about everyone. The mythology of all of the supernatural beings involved fit with the characters in the story flawlessly.
In closing, I must confess that I did win this book and didn't purchase it. It was, however, a book that I had been following and intended to purchase regardless. At the price that it is currently offered at Amazon, it might as well be free and is well worth the dollar amount for the experience.
I am very happy that Michelle intends to continue Ivy's story. There are many places that the characters can go from where The Book of Lost Souls left off.
If you are looking for a story with strong characters, a great life lesson, with a little humor, mystery, action and magic mixed in, The Book of Lost Souls will not disappoint.
May 25, 2011
There are times i'm just getting really mad with the publishers. There are some books out there, that really deserved to get published and be famous instead of some others that seriously need to "disappear"(all books are good, i just don't agree with the popularity that some of them have). Book of Lost Souls, is one of those books. I can't even describe how much i enjoyed it. It was one of those books, that make you wanna read them again and again because they are fun,light and make you feel nice later. Unfortunately, since is an e-book i highly doubt i read it again since i find it a bit tiring to read at the reader.
The author gets you in from the very first chapter, with a really amusing "accident" and the first glimpse of some really great characters. It's easy reading, with the appropriate descriptions, action and between scenes and some real time responses from the characters. The story might be something extremely new (white witch finds dangerous book, tries to save people, a love triangle,etc) but it's enjoyable. You could see right throw the story but still i didn't want it to end.
The characters are some of my fav ones ever. Firstly, i really like the whole demon-vampire-werewolf-witch are friends and not mortal enemies. They are all one and live together (hidden from the mere humans though). Our main heroine, Ivy is a really simple girl. Likes to have fun, doing stupid things, falling in love as a teenager (not "i can't live without you my eternal love"stuff) but when its needed she can take some difficult decisions. Nick is a bad boy in the way "i've done some mistakes but i can be better" and he tries really hard to prove what he really is and that we can't act towards people according to some ideas others or actions have. And lastly, there is the clique of Ivy's friend. Each of them, different but all connected by their friendship, with no backstabbing and etc.
The book is available at Amazon for Kindle. So if you can, then buy it. You will like it :D
The author gets you in from the very first chapter, with a really amusing "accident" and the first glimpse of some really great characters. It's easy reading, with the appropriate descriptions, action and between scenes and some real time responses from the characters. The story might be something extremely new (white witch finds dangerous book, tries to save people, a love triangle,etc) but it's enjoyable. You could see right throw the story but still i didn't want it to end.
The characters are some of my fav ones ever. Firstly, i really like the whole demon-vampire-werewolf-witch are friends and not mortal enemies. They are all one and live together (hidden from the mere humans though). Our main heroine, Ivy is a really simple girl. Likes to have fun, doing stupid things, falling in love as a teenager (not "i can't live without you my eternal love"stuff) but when its needed she can take some difficult decisions. Nick is a bad boy in the way "i've done some mistakes but i can be better" and he tries really hard to prove what he really is and that we can't act towards people according to some ideas others or actions have. And lastly, there is the clique of Ivy's friend. Each of them, different but all connected by their friendship, with no backstabbing and etc.
The book is available at Amazon for Kindle. So if you can, then buy it. You will like it :D
July 12, 2014
I started with The Book of Lost Souls thinking that this is one of those books that I'll read overtime and forget about after a week or so. But I was clearly wrong. The Book of Lost Souls is pure awesomeness and I love, love, love it!
Ivy MacTavish is just like your typical teenage girl who just wants a hot date for a Halloween dance to catch the attention of the hottest guy in school whom she has this huge crush on. Being a witch - and a powerful one at that - she had this crazy idea to turn her friend's brother's lizard into a gorgeous hot date she just needed. Turns out, this is the perfect recipe for a disaster that would start a chain of events that'll change her life.
Ivy is a determined, independent, hardheaded, kick ass heroine. She was a very relateable character and you just can't help but feel happy, depressed and fall in love with her.
And then there's the resident hot, gorgeous demon with a bad reputation. Nick Marcelli got his eye on Ivy but since Ivy refused him twice now, it will take more than his good looks to win Ivy over. And he can be really persistent.. Nick is not your typical swoon-worthy bad boy. He's really sweet and charming especially when he wants to be.
I love how the romance between the two played out. It really took its time to develop. There were a lot of conflicting emotions especially on Ivy's part.
The Book of Lost Souls was written beautifully. It had just the right amount of action, drama, humor and romance. I found the writing to be carefree and light and I just savored every minute of reading it.
This book is definitely a page turner and I found it hard to untangle myself from it. This is definitely a must read - hands down.
It actually reminded me of bits and pieces of Hex Hall. All the characters were amazingly written - all of whom have unique and intriguing personalities. You just can't help but love them all.
The Book of Lost Souls deserves more than just five stars!
Ivy MacTavish is just like your typical teenage girl who just wants a hot date for a Halloween dance to catch the attention of the hottest guy in school whom she has this huge crush on. Being a witch - and a powerful one at that - she had this crazy idea to turn her friend's brother's lizard into a gorgeous hot date she just needed. Turns out, this is the perfect recipe for a disaster that would start a chain of events that'll change her life.
Ivy is a determined, independent, hardheaded, kick ass heroine. She was a very relateable character and you just can't help but feel happy, depressed and fall in love with her.
And then there's the resident hot, gorgeous demon with a bad reputation. Nick Marcelli got his eye on Ivy but since Ivy refused him twice now, it will take more than his good looks to win Ivy over. And he can be really persistent.. Nick is not your typical swoon-worthy bad boy. He's really sweet and charming especially when he wants to be.
I love how the romance between the two played out. It really took its time to develop. There were a lot of conflicting emotions especially on Ivy's part.
The Book of Lost Souls was written beautifully. It had just the right amount of action, drama, humor and romance. I found the writing to be carefree and light and I just savored every minute of reading it.
This book is definitely a page turner and I found it hard to untangle myself from it. This is definitely a must read - hands down.
It actually reminded me of bits and pieces of Hex Hall. All the characters were amazingly written - all of whom have unique and intriguing personalities. You just can't help but love them all.
The Book of Lost Souls deserves more than just five stars!
May 30, 2011
I read this book in the afternoon, then spent the rest of the evening missing Ivy and her friends. I felt similar after reading Harry Potter, though more so because there are more HP books. If Ivy had six more books, I’m sure I’d feel the same way (and I would love to have six more books of Ivy, curiously enough). Michelle Muto really channeled the magic of Harry Potter (no pun intended!) in this book.
Ivy felt like a true 16 year old, beginning to mature but still a teenager – caught between childhood and adulthood. Turning her friend’s brother’s lizard into her date for Halloween (and the following chaos) was hilarious. Spike turned out to be one of my favorite characters, right behind Ivy, Nick and Devlin, the dog. The rest of Ivy’s friends were a great cast of characters – fun, but loyal – and I have no doubts they could have plenty of adventures. Despite being Kindred (witches, vampires, werewolves, demons, and trolls), there were elements of a “typical” teenager life in this book, without being too cliche.
I was able to guess the identity of the person who was using the book of lost souls, as well as the mystery man, but this just made me want to race through the book faster to confirm my guess. I often got impatient with the pace of the book, but rather than being a negative, I think this shows how well engaged I was as a reader, and speaks more to Michelle Muto’s ability to tell a story. Even though this book deals with dark magic and murder, it’s not a dark book.
See my review in its entirety here: http://onabookbender.com/2011/05/26/r...
Ivy felt like a true 16 year old, beginning to mature but still a teenager – caught between childhood and adulthood. Turning her friend’s brother’s lizard into her date for Halloween (and the following chaos) was hilarious. Spike turned out to be one of my favorite characters, right behind Ivy, Nick and Devlin, the dog. The rest of Ivy’s friends were a great cast of characters – fun, but loyal – and I have no doubts they could have plenty of adventures. Despite being Kindred (witches, vampires, werewolves, demons, and trolls), there were elements of a “typical” teenager life in this book, without being too cliche.
I was able to guess the identity of the person who was using the book of lost souls, as well as the mystery man, but this just made me want to race through the book faster to confirm my guess. I often got impatient with the pace of the book, but rather than being a negative, I think this shows how well engaged I was as a reader, and speaks more to Michelle Muto’s ability to tell a story. Even though this book deals with dark magic and murder, it’s not a dark book.
See my review in its entirety here: http://onabookbender.com/2011/05/26/r...
May 28, 2011
Also reviewed on the blog: http://gloriousbooks.blogspot.com/201...
This book was definitely a pleasant surprise. I knew from the start it would be a great, fun read that would be perfect to sit down with in the sun along with a nice cup of tea!
It definitely wasn’t what I was expecting. I read it entirely in one sitting it was that entertaining. It sort of appeals to the mischievous, high school girl in me.
I loved all of the characters and the way they interacted as friends or otherwise. They developed perfectly throughout the story and were all relatable and realistic. I loved how each of them had a certain characteristic that was pointed out at sometime in the story, it made them that much more three-dimensional as characters and it added to the story somewhat.
What I enjoyed most about this book though is how much of a laugh it really was. There were some really fun and creative ideas strewn throughout that made me smile and some great conversations that made me laugh. There was it’s fair share of serious events though which balanced it out considerably, like the mystery in the plot and the protagonist’s relationship with her father…and her complicated love life!
Speaking of, the plot was fantastic! Really original and it kept me on the edge of my seat at times. A real page-turner.
There were a few twists and turns too which definitely kept me interested and the ending was brilliant. I can’t wait for more from this author in particular.
All in all this read was a perfect mix of drama and humour and is a fun, entertaining read.
This book was definitely a pleasant surprise. I knew from the start it would be a great, fun read that would be perfect to sit down with in the sun along with a nice cup of tea!
It definitely wasn’t what I was expecting. I read it entirely in one sitting it was that entertaining. It sort of appeals to the mischievous, high school girl in me.
I loved all of the characters and the way they interacted as friends or otherwise. They developed perfectly throughout the story and were all relatable and realistic. I loved how each of them had a certain characteristic that was pointed out at sometime in the story, it made them that much more three-dimensional as characters and it added to the story somewhat.
What I enjoyed most about this book though is how much of a laugh it really was. There were some really fun and creative ideas strewn throughout that made me smile and some great conversations that made me laugh. There was it’s fair share of serious events though which balanced it out considerably, like the mystery in the plot and the protagonist’s relationship with her father…and her complicated love life!
Speaking of, the plot was fantastic! Really original and it kept me on the edge of my seat at times. A real page-turner.
There were a few twists and turns too which definitely kept me interested and the ending was brilliant. I can’t wait for more from this author in particular.
All in all this read was a perfect mix of drama and humour and is a fun, entertaining read.
July 3, 2011
4.5 stars
Muto has written a beautiful debut novel that will charm the hearts of readers both young and old. From the very beginning, the novel draws the reader in as Ivy’s life quickly spins out of control when she changes Spike, her friend’s pet lizard, into a human for what is supposed to be an evening of fun. The daughter of a dark magician, Ivy is able to delve deeper into magic than is normal for a teen her age and, therefore, is regarded as potentially dangerous by those in her town, especially after the lizard fiasco.
I really enjoyed this book. There is mystery, intrigue, suspense, and romance all packed into this wonderful novel, gluing the reader to the pages as the non-stop action ensues. I thought the idea of regulars and kindred people living side by side was an ingenious idea and really added to the story. The fact that vampires, witches, werewolves, demons, and regular everyday people all live together in the same community is enchanting and reminds me of the Sookie Stackhouse novels, which I love, but Muto’s novel is a much cleaner, YA friendly read...
To read my full reivew (8/5):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
Muto has written a beautiful debut novel that will charm the hearts of readers both young and old. From the very beginning, the novel draws the reader in as Ivy’s life quickly spins out of control when she changes Spike, her friend’s pet lizard, into a human for what is supposed to be an evening of fun. The daughter of a dark magician, Ivy is able to delve deeper into magic than is normal for a teen her age and, therefore, is regarded as potentially dangerous by those in her town, especially after the lizard fiasco.
I really enjoyed this book. There is mystery, intrigue, suspense, and romance all packed into this wonderful novel, gluing the reader to the pages as the non-stop action ensues. I thought the idea of regulars and kindred people living side by side was an ingenious idea and really added to the story. The fact that vampires, witches, werewolves, demons, and regular everyday people all live together in the same community is enchanting and reminds me of the Sookie Stackhouse novels, which I love, but Muto’s novel is a much cleaner, YA friendly read...
To read my full reivew (8/5):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
April 20, 2011
I must say that this cover is quite alluring. It immediately drew my interest and I had to find out more. I was pleasantly surprised to find the story is a blessedly fresh new take on the supernatural world. There is lots of mystery, plotting, subterfuge and generous handfuls of comedy throughout the story. While there is a love triangle, it does not overwhelm and derail the plot line. I particularly liked the group of friends and their intra-dynamic.
The story itself is fast-paced, had me laughing out loud and rooting for bad-boy love interest Nick. This YA novel is definitely worth the wait.
Check out www.fictionflurry.blogspot.com to read my interview with the author!
The story itself is fast-paced, had me laughing out loud and rooting for bad-boy love interest Nick. This YA novel is definitely worth the wait.
Check out www.fictionflurry.blogspot.com to read my interview with the author!
July 27, 2011
It all starts when Ivy changes a lizard into a date to make her crush jealous. This first chapter really caught my attention. It's why I purchased the book, and I wasn't disappointed.
With the help of her friends, Ivy must solve the murders in town and find the book of lost souls. All while dealing with Nick, the mysterious hottie, and the fact that Nick reminds her of her father who left her and her mom.
I love that Nick and Ivy's relationship develops slowly while keeping the romantic tension. A wonderfully plotted book that readers of Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins will enjoy!
With the help of her friends, Ivy must solve the murders in town and find the book of lost souls. All while dealing with Nick, the mysterious hottie, and the fact that Nick reminds her of her father who left her and her mom.
I love that Nick and Ivy's relationship develops slowly while keeping the romantic tension. A wonderfully plotted book that readers of Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins will enjoy!
June 14, 2011
I'm a huge fan of YA fantasy fiction. I like that the story line doesn't revolve exclusive around sex. This one is a fun take on the super natural and has a great story line. I know the author was told that the book was too "light" but I really enjoyed the read. I'm glad to know that it's supposed to be part of a series and can't wait for the next installment!
October 4, 2011
This was a fun, interesting read. I really enjoyed the main characters and I absolutely loved the incorporation of a couple of famous historic figures. The plot was interesting, the pace was quick enough to keep my attention, and the twists and turns at the end were dizzying in the best way. I definitely recommend this one.
May 21, 2012
A thumping good time. Enjoyed the colorful, unique characters and fun storyline. Loved the crazy mix of vamps, werewolves and witches and I loved how Author Michelle Muto brought in the themes of friendship, forgiveness, and loyalty with such panache. Recommend to those who adore paranormal YA. Excellent!
June 18, 2011
This is a great YA novel!
Michelle has crafted an intriguing world where the supernatural and normal live side-by-side, and created characters that you love from the moment you meet them. It is an intense ride from beginning to end; it kept me hooked. I highly recommend this book.
Michelle has crafted an intriguing world where the supernatural and normal live side-by-side, and created characters that you love from the moment you meet them. It is an intense ride from beginning to end; it kept me hooked. I highly recommend this book.
July 10, 2011
Great Indie Read! Loved the Main Character in this one!!
Full review: http://youngadultbookworm.blogspot.co...
Full review: http://youngadultbookworm.blogspot.co...
May 19, 2011
The awesomest book ever.
September 13, 2011
Snarky fun and full of a cast of memorable teens, a great YA read from an up and coming indie author.
June 4, 2011
I love it, I love it, I love it!!! But there's still lots of mysteries left unanswered by the end. Is there any sequel? Please be...
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