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The Underland Chronicles #1
Underland by Chanda Hahn
Long ago, before humans forgot them for all eternity, monsters and immortals retreated below ground to seek shelter. But what do the Greek Gods do when they're bored? They bring back the Olympic games--only a lethal version. The newest contender in these bigger, deadlier games is a young human girl they kidnapped from the streets above. For Kira Lier, it’s kill or be killed as she races against beasts she thought were just myths, to cross the finish line and win a chance to earn her freedom.
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About the author
Chanda Hahn
39 books4,010 followersChanda Hahn is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Reign An Unfortunate Fairy Tale. She was born in Seattle, WA, grew up in Nebraska and currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her husband and their twin children. She attended North Central University in Minneapolis Minnesota for Childrens Ministry. She was also a children's pastor, bookseller and children's librarian.
Books published by Chanda include the UnEnchanted series a.k.a. (Unfortunate Fairy Tale Series) and The Iron Butterfly series.
Chanda is represented by Mark Gottlieb at Trident Media Group. You can direct any inquiries regarding foreign, film, audio and translation rights to him. www.tridentmediagroup.com
Books published by Chanda include the UnEnchanted series a.k.a. (Unfortunate Fairy Tale Series) and The Iron Butterfly series.
Chanda is represented by Mark Gottlieb at Trident Media Group. You can direct any inquiries regarding foreign, film, audio and translation rights to him. www.tridentmediagroup.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
December 8, 2016
I love this book!! I bought it immediately after it was released and read it until 5AM!
First, Kira is strong, independant, and brave. Great qualities for a main character in my opinion. We get glimpses into her past about what she has overcome and it just makes us love her more. Not only did she have the courage to leave everything behind, she has survived on the streets by herself and her own sheer will to survive.
This brings us to the part where she is taken out of her damp, cold cardboard box in an alley one night and taken as a human slave to the Underland. She meets some pretty interesting characters like a zombie, a guy with a butt-chin, and some otherworldly creeps along the way. Hehe butt chin.
First, Kira is strong, independant, and brave. Great qualities for a main character in my opinion. We get glimpses into her past about what she has overcome and it just makes us love her more. Not only did she have the courage to leave everything behind, she has survived on the streets by herself and her own sheer will to survive.
This brings us to the part where she is taken out of her damp, cold cardboard box in an alley one night and taken as a human slave to the Underland. She meets some pretty interesting characters like a zombie, a guy with a butt-chin, and some otherworldly creeps along the way. Hehe butt chin.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2016
Amazing read that I could not put down
Chanda Hahn is a very talented writer whose books I have enjoyed for some time, and Underland hooked me from day 1. Just like Iron Butterfly, she nails the beginning with action and suspense, deep character creation, fully flushed out world, and sweet yet bitter romance that only accelerates to an incredible cliffhanger. Although I dislike zombies and violence, Underland takes a clean but middle of the road approach to fighting and slavery, while maintaining a "hunger games meets Percy Jackson and twilight" feel. The reader feels desperation, exhilaration, fear, loyalty, honor, betrayal, and so much more as the main character Kira is thrown into a completely new world that only sees her as a slave or food. Even with the familiar "themes" that reminded me of other stories, the book kept me on the edge of my seat unable to put it down from start to finish. Remus and Warrick held my attention in the beginning, but as Zeke, Den, Chaz and many others emerge I look forward to seeing how things will turn out. This book may include the dark themes gambling, slavery and ring fighting to the death, but it also equally acknowledges honor, respect for differences and all life, human dignity, trust, love, decency, honesty and so much more.
Chanda Hahn is a very talented writer whose books I have enjoyed for some time, and Underland hooked me from day 1. Just like Iron Butterfly, she nails the beginning with action and suspense, deep character creation, fully flushed out world, and sweet yet bitter romance that only accelerates to an incredible cliffhanger. Although I dislike zombies and violence, Underland takes a clean but middle of the road approach to fighting and slavery, while maintaining a "hunger games meets Percy Jackson and twilight" feel. The reader feels desperation, exhilaration, fear, loyalty, honor, betrayal, and so much more as the main character Kira is thrown into a completely new world that only sees her as a slave or food. Even with the familiar "themes" that reminded me of other stories, the book kept me on the edge of my seat unable to put it down from start to finish. Remus and Warrick held my attention in the beginning, but as Zeke, Den, Chaz and many others emerge I look forward to seeing how things will turn out. This book may include the dark themes gambling, slavery and ring fighting to the death, but it also equally acknowledges honor, respect for differences and all life, human dignity, trust, love, decency, honesty and so much more.
July 22, 2016
So either I was reading a different book than the other reviewers or...well, I don't know. This was TERRIBLE! Totally unbelievable, boring, and far fetched. I was lost and confused the whole time. Nothing was explained in any depth. This was SO un-Chanda Hahn-like that I was COMPLETELY disappointed! The story telling was just....lazy. I felt no connection to ANY character. Definately NOT up to her usual caliber. I still love her, and I guess every good author gets to write a flop every now and then.
December 26, 2024
“Deep down, no matter our exteriors, we are all monsters.”
Kira is bratty as fuck but not in an annoying way, in a refreshing way. Her dialogue is very reminiscent of an angsty teenager, and I appreciate it a lot. Sometimes I enjoy YA for that reason, if a character is done right. A lot of times they can come across as annoying or brash, but Kira is the most perfect amount of everything combined in a way that feels authentic. She’s an angry 17 year old , and what teen isn’t angry? Especially one that’s been dragged to the underworld. The couple flashbacks / scenes we get that give us context for why she was homeless, was nice as well. Is she one of my favorite characters ever? No, but I enjoyed her dialogue and commentary, along with Zeke’s pov which I was pleasantly suprised by. I am not the biggest fan of third person omniscient though, and found myself jarred at time by the POV switched to random characters. It did add to the overall narrative to give us a bit more insight into other characters, which I did appreciate.
If i had to describe this story in one word it would be: fun. Its faced passed, has likeable characters, gods, monsters, trials and games, romance, and a snarky main character. It feels nostalgic to my middle school days where I read things that didn’t so heavily reflect on the political and societal issues in our world, and though I love those novels to death, it’s also nice to sometimes pick up something you can fully escape in. That’s what this was for me, a nice little palate cleanser , with so many fun aspects thrown in. Yes, it might be clichè, but I am not reading this to academically analyze it, so womp womp. I love me a good zombie x human romance I DONT CARE , IF TROPES ARE DONE RIGHT THEN I AM EATING IT UP.
At its core though, it is very mid. I wish there was more worldbuilding, because we didn’t get much in this one. There were descriptions of the monsters and their weaknesses/ strengths, but it doesn’t really go into depth about the politics of this world or the dynamics of their lives. There are quite literally gods running around and creating games for their enjoyment but that’s all the information we get. I NEED TO KNOWW DETAILS.
Also how tf is Kira so skilled at everything 😭 : main character chosen one syndrome, that’s why. Something that puzzles me is why they brought Kira to that fighting thing at the end of the book, well i know it was just a lazy way of progressing the plot but it made no sense because she and Zeke and the most wanted people in Underland at this point, so it’s make no sense why the author would just throw them into a popular dancing / fighting place. I do not like when authors do things just to advance the plot instead of thoroughly because progressing the story in an authentic way, that just felt forced and stupid. I also don’t get why she wanted to go back to the human world so badly when she has nothing there. Girl fought for her freedom and money, and was like mmm i actually just want to be homeless living in a box again.
This works best as a middle grade novel I think, it’s not very fleshed out or unique but it does what it came to do.
the ending?!?!??!?!!?!
Kira is bratty as fuck but not in an annoying way, in a refreshing way. Her dialogue is very reminiscent of an angsty teenager, and I appreciate it a lot. Sometimes I enjoy YA for that reason, if a character is done right. A lot of times they can come across as annoying or brash, but Kira is the most perfect amount of everything combined in a way that feels authentic. She’s an angry 17 year old , and what teen isn’t angry? Especially one that’s been dragged to the underworld. The couple flashbacks / scenes we get that give us context for why she was homeless, was nice as well. Is she one of my favorite characters ever? No, but I enjoyed her dialogue and commentary, along with Zeke’s pov which I was pleasantly suprised by. I am not the biggest fan of third person omniscient though, and found myself jarred at time by the POV switched to random characters. It did add to the overall narrative to give us a bit more insight into other characters, which I did appreciate.
If i had to describe this story in one word it would be: fun. Its faced passed, has likeable characters, gods, monsters, trials and games, romance, and a snarky main character. It feels nostalgic to my middle school days where I read things that didn’t so heavily reflect on the political and societal issues in our world, and though I love those novels to death, it’s also nice to sometimes pick up something you can fully escape in. That’s what this was for me, a nice little palate cleanser , with so many fun aspects thrown in. Yes, it might be clichè, but I am not reading this to academically analyze it, so womp womp. I love me a good zombie x human romance I DONT CARE , IF TROPES ARE DONE RIGHT THEN I AM EATING IT UP.
At its core though, it is very mid. I wish there was more worldbuilding, because we didn’t get much in this one. There were descriptions of the monsters and their weaknesses/ strengths, but it doesn’t really go into depth about the politics of this world or the dynamics of their lives. There are quite literally gods running around and creating games for their enjoyment but that’s all the information we get. I NEED TO KNOWW DETAILS.
Also how tf is Kira so skilled at everything 😭 : main character chosen one syndrome, that’s why. Something that puzzles me is why they brought Kira to that fighting thing at the end of the book, well i know it was just a lazy way of progressing the plot but it made no sense because she and Zeke and the most wanted people in Underland at this point, so it’s make no sense why the author would just throw them into a popular dancing / fighting place. I do not like when authors do things just to advance the plot instead of thoroughly because progressing the story in an authentic way, that just felt forced and stupid. I also don’t get why she wanted to go back to the human world so badly when she has nothing there. Girl fought for her freedom and money, and was like mmm i actually just want to be homeless living in a box again.
This works best as a middle grade novel I think, it’s not very fleshed out or unique but it does what it came to do.
the ending?!?!??!?!!?!
July 21, 2024
2 stars ✨
Clean YA Paranormal Dystopian
This was weird , but also a very interesting and unique idea. Lots of things going on in this short little book. Mythology, monsters, underground games , tiny bit of romance . It was all very thrown together though, and not much was explained very well. Felt like an idea, more than anything. I never felt very connected to the characters or the plot. I usually really enjoy Hahns books, this one not so much. It was a clean and short read, besides some violence and may appeal to a different audience. Unfortunately wasn’t for me.
Clean YA Paranormal Dystopian
This was weird , but also a very interesting and unique idea. Lots of things going on in this short little book. Mythology, monsters, underground games , tiny bit of romance . It was all very thrown together though, and not much was explained very well. Felt like an idea, more than anything. I never felt very connected to the characters or the plot. I usually really enjoy Hahns books, this one not so much. It was a clean and short read, besides some violence and may appeal to a different audience. Unfortunately wasn’t for me.
May 12, 2016
Underland by Kira is young adult paranormal novel, with urban fantasy elements. Kira hadn’t always been lost, once she’d had a family, a father who loved her and shared with her the experience of his Navy SEAL training. When she had awoken with night terrors he had chased them away, but when he died the nightmares became flesh. She fled the streets to escape the wrath of her violent step-father, and for two years she had survived. Then one night the monsters returned plunging her into a world of slavery where she was sold to the highest bidder. Humans are the lowest of the low, the bottom of the food chain, so what chance does she really have in this mythical world beneath the streets? As if things weren’t bad enough, she is selected to participate in the games. Her new prison is already filled with enemies, creatures thought only to be myth, who would prefer to kill her rather than look at her, especially given the entrance she made into their territory. Can she form the alliances needed to survive this terrifying world, and how can she, a lowly human, hope to compete in a game even those with a lifetime of training struggle to survive?
For me Underland had a very Neverwhere (Neil Gaiman) feel to it. Not in the sense of a mirrored storyline, but in the creation of a vast world below ours, where creatures once feared, and those forgotten, now live. Combine this with the more well-known Hunger Games series, a fight to the death for the pleasure of those watching, add a chance of earning freedom and creatures of legend, and you have the fantastic story woven by Chanda Hahn. The author’s style of writing is suited to the new adult, young adult age group, which is the chosen target audience, and it reminded me in places of the point horror genre. The only thing which would have enhanced the reading experience for me would be a little more description in some places. There is this enormous vast land, filled with more creatures and monsters than you can imagine and whilst scope is implied a few more details would have impressed the greatness and magnitude of this world seeing it reach its full potential. I would recommend this book, by a quarter of the way through I didn’t want to put it down and I had become invested in Kira and her struggle wanting to know what happened next. The gripping tale of an underdog trying to survive against all odds alone is enough to grab any reader’s attention, but throw in mythical creatures and ancient gods and you have a combination bound to inspire.
For me Underland had a very Neverwhere (Neil Gaiman) feel to it. Not in the sense of a mirrored storyline, but in the creation of a vast world below ours, where creatures once feared, and those forgotten, now live. Combine this with the more well-known Hunger Games series, a fight to the death for the pleasure of those watching, add a chance of earning freedom and creatures of legend, and you have the fantastic story woven by Chanda Hahn. The author’s style of writing is suited to the new adult, young adult age group, which is the chosen target audience, and it reminded me in places of the point horror genre. The only thing which would have enhanced the reading experience for me would be a little more description in some places. There is this enormous vast land, filled with more creatures and monsters than you can imagine and whilst scope is implied a few more details would have impressed the greatness and magnitude of this world seeing it reach its full potential. I would recommend this book, by a quarter of the way through I didn’t want to put it down and I had become invested in Kira and her struggle wanting to know what happened next. The gripping tale of an underdog trying to survive against all odds alone is enough to grab any reader’s attention, but throw in mythical creatures and ancient gods and you have a combination bound to inspire.
July 14, 2017
First off, I love Hahn's work. I started with her UnEnchanted series (which, interestingly, is her least favorite of her published works), and in waiting for that series to be completed, also read the Iron Butterfly series. I knew I would read other things she wrote, too. I waited to buy this particular book until I was travelling for work, because I always allow myself to get a book for the plane and it would count towards my reading challenge (book purchased while travelling).
It was a bit of a slow starting book. I also felt like it was a bit darker than Hahn's other works. But I enjoyed it and was pulled into it. Kira seems to have a lot of sheer luck (in spite of her overall bad luck in being captured in the first place) that saves her in addition to the unexplained intercession of other characters.
Why does Den drop the chain? (This is answered, but there had been a connection before that. Why?) Why does "Zeke" help her out at all? What is the *zing* all about? Why is Warrick so helpful?
I was surprised at how/when the book ended. I had checked before I purchased it and didn't see any other books with it in a series, so I had anticipated that it would be a stand-alone. It is not. Perhaps my questions will be answered as the series unfolds. Now my biggest question is... where's book 2?
It was a bit of a slow starting book. I also felt like it was a bit darker than Hahn's other works. But I enjoyed it and was pulled into it. Kira seems to have a lot of sheer luck (in spite of her overall bad luck in being captured in the first place) that saves her in addition to the unexplained intercession of other characters.
Why does Den drop the chain? (This is answered, but there had been a connection before that. Why?) Why does "Zeke" help her out at all? What is the *zing* all about? Why is Warrick so helpful?
I was surprised at how/when the book ended. I had checked before I purchased it and didn't see any other books with it in a series, so I had anticipated that it would be a stand-alone. It is not. Perhaps my questions will be answered as the series unfolds. Now my biggest question is... where's book 2?
April 10, 2016
Gaaahhh!!! What the heck just happened??!!! How?? WHY??!!! UGGHH!! Do I really have to wait a YEAR until the next book is out?!
This book was really weird, though, I have to say. Can't say I was expecting what I just read. It was just totally different from what I'm used to reading, especially coming from Chanda following her Iron Butterfly and Unfortunate Fairytale series.
This book was really weird, though, I have to say. Can't say I was expecting what I just read. It was just totally different from what I'm used to reading, especially coming from Chanda following her Iron Butterfly and Unfortunate Fairytale series.
January 23, 2017
2.5 stars. I didn't necessarily dislike it, I just never really got it. I didn't connect to the characters and didn't ever see the point or even get the world. I never thought about quitting, the writing in and if itself was compelling enough to keep reading. But I don't plan to continue. Despite the cliff hanger (that I also didn't get). The narration was solid though!
September 16, 2016
Wow... just wow... this book was amazing. Yea, it ended in a cliffhanger, but those don't bother me (though I did scream "Oh my God no!" when I realized the book was over). The writing is well done and the world the author has created is just amazing. I am in love with this book.
June 13, 2020
This was the first book on my #MakeYourMythTaker goddess path, and it filled the "Going in blind" prompt of reading a book I knew absolutely nothing about. I think I either picked this one up free as a BookBub promo offer, or it was part of a Storybundle set. Either way, it wasn't one I actively chose to buy because I'd heard anything about it.
And the verdit, to use my favourite comment from Seannan McGuire when faced with a book I've elected to DNF, is that, "This work was not for me".
Partly, I suspect, that's because it had the trope of Kira being 'the plucky loner against the world' that I've mentioned before just doesn't do it for me. Partly, it's because even at the 35% mark, I didn't get a real sense of who the aforementioned 'plucky loner' was as a character. I mean, yes, I'd read the info dumps of Kira's backstory. And I know she's scrappy and a good fighter (unbelievably so at a couple of points). But beyond that? There really wasn't much there that I could see.
Mostly though, it's because I was forcing myself to keep reading. There were a couple of places where I thought it might be picking up and that I might have found enough motivation to keep going with it. But in the end, no, not so much.
The story might have been moving towards either Den or whatever the zeke boy was called being a good support character so we could lose the 'plucky loner' trope. There may have possibly even been some romance threads building with one or the other of those characters. I'm not sure though, because apparently, I didn't want to find out enough to persevere.
I'm sure this is going to be a great story for someone (and in fact, judging by the reviews below, it already has been for many someones). I, however, am not one of them, so I'm feeling an immense sense of relief at the decision to finally stop struggling and move onto the next book on my June TBR.
And the verdit, to use my favourite comment from Seannan McGuire when faced with a book I've elected to DNF, is that, "This work was not for me".
Partly, I suspect, that's because it had the trope of Kira being 'the plucky loner against the world' that I've mentioned before just doesn't do it for me. Partly, it's because even at the 35% mark, I didn't get a real sense of who the aforementioned 'plucky loner' was as a character. I mean, yes, I'd read the info dumps of Kira's backstory. And I know she's scrappy and a good fighter (unbelievably so at a couple of points). But beyond that? There really wasn't much there that I could see.
Mostly though, it's because I was forcing myself to keep reading. There were a couple of places where I thought it might be picking up and that I might have found enough motivation to keep going with it. But in the end, no, not so much.
The story might have been moving towards either Den or whatever the zeke boy was called being a good support character so we could lose the 'plucky loner' trope. There may have possibly even been some romance threads building with one or the other of those characters. I'm not sure though, because apparently, I didn't want to find out enough to persevere.
I'm sure this is going to be a great story for someone (and in fact, judging by the reviews below, it already has been for many someones). I, however, am not one of them, so I'm feeling an immense sense of relief at the decision to finally stop struggling and move onto the next book on my June TBR.
August 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I did struggle at one point in the book to keep going, but I didn't want to give in and stop reading. I really felt like this book had potential and I wasn't wrong. By mid book, Chanda was able to grab my attention again. I think that the premise of the book was well developed. I would love to connect to the characters more and I am hoping that that will happen in book 2. There were many moments throughout the book, that were intense. I wasn't sure where Chanda was going and that is something that I love about her writing; she is not predictable. I was glued to the book for the last 6 chapters, and I am now left craving the next book. I think this book is definitely worth a try.
March 11, 2021
I don’t really have a lot to say about this book. It was okay in all aspects but not great in any. I think the idea of gods and mythical beasts living underground is interesting but that’s about it.
I do like the fact that the main character was strong and independent. I hate when main characters act weak and helpless through the majority of the book.
I do like the fact that the main character was strong and independent. I hate when main characters act weak and helpless through the majority of the book.
January 21, 2020
EH... this was lack luster and just MEH
July 28, 2019
One of my favorite books in a long time! I love the two main characters Kira and Zeke and cannot wait for this series to continue. This story is like Hunger Games meets Twilight, but so much better than Twilight.
July 21, 2017
I listened to the audio version of this book. It is an interesting take on the stories of various gods and mythical creatures. It was kind of violent reminiscent of the Hunger Games series or Percy Jackson series, but I am interested in reading the next book just to see what happens.
September 10, 2016
Ok. Think Percy Jackson meets the Hunger Games and you will get this book. Sometimes the similarities were pretty close: trainers, people who get contestants make-up and clothes ready for the games, stats being projected to audience and and contestants alike, the main character doing something out of character in the games, and trainers giving instruction and guidance for the games. Honestly the formula for fantasy books used to be "The Quest". The main character goes on a journey to find some all important thing or to complete some action that will fix all the problems of their world. (Think the Lord of the rings). Since the Hunger Games series a new formula for fantasy had been created "The Game". The main character now has to make it through an event usually with another group of people. So really it is just the fact that it is the same plot type that makes Hunger Games and Overland similar.
Despite that fact, there was plenty of new material and ideas to keep me interested in reading the book. Kira is living on the streets when she gets kidnapped and dragged down to underworld, held in a cage, and sold as food for a monster. Honestly the underworld is not much of a step up from living on the streets other than hot showers. They are held in cages, the food is terrible, and the training is brutal. Luckily Kira is spunky, intelligent, and has been taught some combat training in the "real world" so she can hold her own in underland.
This book has a lot going for it. The writing is great. The action is quick and well described. The characters are likeable, even the unlikable ones, even if they are little bit stereotypical of young adult fiction right now. The introduction of Greek mythology gives the book instant world building but the author tweaks each of the elements a little to give it a new spin.
There is one large, and the more I think about it, really annoying problem. The purpose of the book seems to change in the last chapter which was a completely abrupt ending and breaks one very cardinal rules.
Despite that fact, there was plenty of new material and ideas to keep me interested in reading the book. Kira is living on the streets when she gets kidnapped and dragged down to underworld, held in a cage, and sold as food for a monster. Honestly the underworld is not much of a step up from living on the streets other than hot showers. They are held in cages, the food is terrible, and the training is brutal. Luckily Kira is spunky, intelligent, and has been taught some combat training in the "real world" so she can hold her own in underland.
This book has a lot going for it. The writing is great. The action is quick and well described. The characters are likeable, even the unlikable ones, even if they are little bit stereotypical of young adult fiction right now. The introduction of Greek mythology gives the book instant world building but the author tweaks each of the elements a little to give it a new spin.
There is one large, and the more I think about it, really annoying problem. The purpose of the book seems to change in the last chapter which was a completely abrupt ending and breaks one very cardinal rules.
July 2, 2017
So good
Love Kira not being helpless, killing off the terrorizers and kicking butt. I really hope the next one comes out soon!
Love Kira not being helpless, killing off the terrorizers and kicking butt. I really hope the next one comes out soon!
September 28, 2016
The gods of mythology do exist and they have decided to bring back the Olympic games but they are much more deadly than before. Now and then a human will get snatched and taken to the Underland where the gods are so they can be entered into the games. Humans don't normally survive but Kira is determined to be one that does.
Kira knows what it means to fight for your life as she has been doing it on the streets for a while now. She didn't know that gods existed or for that fact monsters. Now her she is in the middle of a bunch of monsters and a slave bought for the games. She has no choice but to fight when she is called up and only gets a little bit of training before going in.
She does make a few friends along the way as she tries to survive Underland.
So this was my first by this author and I really wasn't wowed at all. I really never felt anything for the MCand I didn't think there was enough world building (I know, I know, and here I am one that doesn't like a lot of that stuff...lol.) It was just sort of felt choppy. One minute she was on the streets and next thing she is in Underland, then she gets a tiny bit of training and thrown into the gauntlet. She does gain a reputation down there in Underland though sometimes that is not good because she gains enemies. Then it ends and you are left with an open ending so I am going to hope that there will be a sequel cause I am a bit curious to see what might happen next which is why it got three stars. (If it gets no sequel the stars might go down.)
Some of the other characters were interesting but you really don't get that much information about them. I am also not a fan of zombie romances and the guys she falls for is a bit undead though he doesn't seem like a typical zombie type but still just not a fan...lol.
So overall this one just didn't hook me like I was hoping but it seems I am in the minority as I seen a lot of great reviews for this one. So if this seems like your kind of book then you might enjoy it.
Kira knows what it means to fight for your life as she has been doing it on the streets for a while now. She didn't know that gods existed or for that fact monsters. Now her she is in the middle of a bunch of monsters and a slave bought for the games. She has no choice but to fight when she is called up and only gets a little bit of training before going in.
She does make a few friends along the way as she tries to survive Underland.
So this was my first by this author and I really wasn't wowed at all. I really never felt anything for the MCand I didn't think there was enough world building (I know, I know, and here I am one that doesn't like a lot of that stuff...lol.) It was just sort of felt choppy. One minute she was on the streets and next thing she is in Underland, then she gets a tiny bit of training and thrown into the gauntlet. She does gain a reputation down there in Underland though sometimes that is not good because she gains enemies. Then it ends and you are left with an open ending so I am going to hope that there will be a sequel cause I am a bit curious to see what might happen next which is why it got three stars. (If it gets no sequel the stars might go down.)
Some of the other characters were interesting but you really don't get that much information about them. I am also not a fan of zombie romances and the guys she falls for is a bit undead though he doesn't seem like a typical zombie type but still just not a fan...lol.
So overall this one just didn't hook me like I was hoping but it seems I am in the minority as I seen a lot of great reviews for this one. So if this seems like your kind of book then you might enjoy it.
April 6, 2016
**UNDERLAND***
Omg, I don't really know what to say this book was just WOW. Action. A little romance. A wonderful plot with likeable characters. It keeps you wanting more.
Underland is well underland. Deep below the streets is underland ruled by the geek gods known as underlords.
Kira gets kidnapped and taken to underland full of mystical creatures. ( Rat men, Vampires, Snake men, rabbit men) Are a few to name but my favorite would half to be the Zeke (Which are zombies who are nothing like the zombies we know of)
She gets sold as a salve and becomes a chosen forced into the games by the underlords. Is was such an amazing read. Seeing how she handled her new way of life and the fights. How she doesn't back down and fights for what she stands for (as much as a salve can)
We get a love interest in this epic book. Who-hoo. Its one of the zekes. Kira not knowing his name calls him Zeke (She should really find out what it is) There's a mystery's surrounding ZEKE one I can't wait to read about in the next book. By the end of this book the puzzle pieces start to fall together why the Games are held.
And why Kira is not just an unlucky girl to be immersed into this world but there's something special about her.
You'll want to read this. It's different but different is so good. (If the book fairy is out there listening wave that wand and give me book two Please.)
Omg, I don't really know what to say this book was just WOW. Action. A little romance. A wonderful plot with likeable characters. It keeps you wanting more.
Underland is well underland. Deep below the streets is underland ruled by the geek gods known as underlords.
Kira gets kidnapped and taken to underland full of mystical creatures. ( Rat men, Vampires, Snake men, rabbit men) Are a few to name but my favorite would half to be the Zeke (Which are zombies who are nothing like the zombies we know of)
She gets sold as a salve and becomes a chosen forced into the games by the underlords. Is was such an amazing read. Seeing how she handled her new way of life and the fights. How she doesn't back down and fights for what she stands for (as much as a salve can)
We get a love interest in this epic book. Who-hoo. Its one of the zekes. Kira not knowing his name calls him Zeke (She should really find out what it is) There's a mystery's surrounding ZEKE one I can't wait to read about in the next book. By the end of this book the puzzle pieces start to fall together why the Games are held.
And why Kira is not just an unlucky girl to be immersed into this world but there's something special about her.
You'll want to read this. It's different but different is so good. (If the book fairy is out there listening wave that wand and give me book two Please.)
July 29, 2019
***Spoiler free***
Thoughts right after finishing: absolutely loved it!
I really enjoyed Chanda's prior series, the series of unfortunate fairy tales, so I jumped on the opportunity to read this one as soon as it came out.
We start off with our heroine who is kidnapped and thrown into a foreign world. But that does not stop her from being kick-ass! She meets several characters along her journey whom you're not sure is friend or foe. There was also an underlying mystery surrounding her circumstances and those of the other characters. There are vampires, zombies, wolves, etc. I ended up reading this book in one sitting---it was that good! i just couldnt wait to see what happened and was so disappointed when the book ended! Oh that ending! I wanted more! LOL looking forward to the next installment in the series. I love Zeke and Kira!
If you're looking for action, adventure, a touch of romance, and all things fantastical, this is the book for you :D Think Hunger Games meets Percy Jackson!
Thoughts right after finishing: absolutely loved it!
I really enjoyed Chanda's prior series, the series of unfortunate fairy tales, so I jumped on the opportunity to read this one as soon as it came out.
We start off with our heroine who is kidnapped and thrown into a foreign world. But that does not stop her from being kick-ass! She meets several characters along her journey whom you're not sure is friend or foe. There was also an underlying mystery surrounding her circumstances and those of the other characters. There are vampires, zombies, wolves, etc. I ended up reading this book in one sitting---it was that good! i just couldnt wait to see what happened and was so disappointed when the book ended! Oh that ending! I wanted more! LOL looking forward to the next installment in the series. I love Zeke and Kira!
If you're looking for action, adventure, a touch of romance, and all things fantastical, this is the book for you :D Think Hunger Games meets Percy Jackson!
August 17, 2018
What I like the most of Hahn books is that I can never figure it out what will happen next. And this book is very well narrated as well.
I wish I could have a little bit more info about what's the deal with Kira and what is Den and Zeke plotting. kind of freaked out when I couldn't find any information about a second book, but then there it was, Underlord (supposedly to be release in 2017, but who knows now that Lost Girl was just released in February). Anyway, I'm really looking forward.
I also like that the romance is not silly or boring, the hints are there and are very enjoyable.
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Lo que más me gusta de los libros de Chandra Hahn es que nunca puedo predecir sus historias. Y esta no se queda atrás.
Lo único que hubiera deseado son más pistas de cuál es la cuestión con Kira y qué es lo que Den y Zeke están planeando en las sombras. Casi muero cuando no encontraba información sobre una segunda parte. pero ahí esta, Underlord.
I wish I could have a little bit more info about what's the deal with Kira and what is Den and Zeke plotting. kind of freaked out when I couldn't find any information about a second book, but then there it was, Underlord (supposedly to be release in 2017, but who knows now that Lost Girl was just released in February). Anyway, I'm really looking forward.
I also like that the romance is not silly or boring, the hints are there and are very enjoyable.
★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
Lo que más me gusta de los libros de Chandra Hahn es que nunca puedo predecir sus historias. Y esta no se queda atrás.
Lo único que hubiera deseado son más pistas de cuál es la cuestión con Kira y qué es lo que Den y Zeke están planeando en las sombras. Casi muero cuando no encontraba información sobre una segunda parte. pero ahí esta, Underlord.
September 3, 2016
You can't go wrong with Hahn. Point blank.
Now if you follow my reviews, you know I love her writing.
Underland is no exception.
We meet Kira, she's a homeless teen living in the streets of Portland, when she's abducted and taken to a place filled with the stuff of nightmares.
Now she must fight for her life.
But not everything in Underland is what it seems, to quote Tupac, Kira finds some "flowers growing in the concrete", and there may be an interesting reason as to why she ends up there. Let's just say we're in for some twists in this story in the next installment, Hahn style.
Kira is a wonderful MC, she's smart, courageous, sarcastic and most importantly, she can kick some ass!
Another great adventure by Hahn.
If you have not checked her out yet, please do.
Can't wait for the sequel!
Happy Reading!
Now if you follow my reviews, you know I love her writing.
Underland is no exception.
We meet Kira, she's a homeless teen living in the streets of Portland, when she's abducted and taken to a place filled with the stuff of nightmares.
Now she must fight for her life.
But not everything in Underland is what it seems, to quote Tupac, Kira finds some "flowers growing in the concrete", and there may be an interesting reason as to why she ends up there. Let's just say we're in for some twists in this story in the next installment, Hahn style.
Kira is a wonderful MC, she's smart, courageous, sarcastic and most importantly, she can kick some ass!
Another great adventure by Hahn.
If you have not checked her out yet, please do.
Can't wait for the sequel!
Happy Reading!
April 29, 2016
This was a quick, enjoyable read. Very much a mix of Hunger Games and Percy Jackson. She gives you just enough to think you have it figured out and keep you reading to figure out of you're right. There are several editing errors/typos in the Kindle edition that were distracting but overall, a solid start to a series that I think will get better as she has a chance to explore the world a bit more. It read very much like a first in the series book, just enough to get you hooked and set up the story but definitely leaves a lot of room for more. I had a bit of a hard time keeping the types of monsters straight and imagining what they were supposed to look like but I bet as the story continues, it will hone in on a handful you'll really get to know and it won't much of a problem. I'm pretty sure I've figured out who the zeke's secret but I won't spoil it for you. Very interesting concept.
June 3, 2016
Despite some challenges, this book seems like the perfect setup for another great series! It has a very unique and dark storyline that blends Hunger Games and Percy Jackson with the power of belief. The book moves fast and covers a lot for such a quick read, but does fail to give the backstory of several main characters. The vagueness did leave me guessing the motives of these characters(in a good way) and what will happen in the next book, but I enjoyed the twists and unpredictability of it. At times, it can feel like too much at once without eliciting reader investment but just hang in there until the end and be open to its full potential. Of note, the book had a lot of grammatical errors which were distracting. Overall, I'd recommend it and am anticipating the next installment.
April 11, 2016
wow i read this and did not want to put it down and what a story . what do you do when fate brings you to another world of nightmares whether it be of zombies , vampires or werewolves and so much more the story reminded me of the hunger games but instead of humans only it has creatures in it and a mix with some human and one human who seems to over come her rival and enemy . and what happens when you feel a pull to the most unlikely creature to have feelings for . and find out can she earn her freedom or be forever a slave . i look forward to reading more of this story f
January 1, 2017
A great mix of Hunger Games and a little Percy Jackson mixed in. A very good story in its own right and a new idea at the same time. A girl with no ties to anyone on the surface is kidnapped and taken in underground where the Gods retreated when humans stopped believing in them. She's made a slave and is an impressive fighter.
There is violence, but not language.
There is violence, but not language.
February 24, 2017
This was an entertaining fantasy about a girl temporarily trapped in an underground world populated with werewolves, vampires, and zombies. The main character's interactions with the denizens of the new world are safe and fun. To end the adventure the girl was encouraged to wake up. This is a "fairy tale" for a more modern world.
March 15, 2017
I hope there's another book. That ending was a cliffhanger that needs answers!!!
Unlike other reviewers I connected with the characters. They were well written and not much is known about the supporting cast. I want to know more!!!
I'm going to read this authors other books I like the writing.
Unlike other reviewers I connected with the characters. They were well written and not much is known about the supporting cast. I want to know more!!!
I'm going to read this authors other books I like the writing.
May 23, 2017
Chanda Hahn is my all time favorite author, quickly overtaking Richelle Meads previous pedestal. I'm picky, yet every single book of hers is pure magic. It gets released, I pay without thought and READ!
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