Misty Provencher offers readers a shelf full of stories to enjoy.
Writing under Misty Provencher, her young adult genres include stories dealing in fantasy, including magic, sci-fi, vampires, shifters, and dark fantasy.
Writing under Misty Paquette, adult readers will enjoy contemporary beach-read romances, based-on-true event stories, a romantic 80s mystery, and even a sci-fantasy.
While Provencher can ride a motorcycle, knows how to Karate chop, and has learned enough French, Spanish, and Sign Language to get herself slapped, Misty's life is dedicated to connecting with, and understanding, the people who cross her path. She is totally enchanted with the world and spends her days trying to translate her everyday muses into words.
Misty Provencher lives in the Mitten. Knock on her internet blog door at www.mistyprovencherauthor.com and wherever great coffee is sold.
This is one of those series that you should read once it's complete. Why? Because it is TORTURE to wait for the next one!
Seriously, I don't think Misty could write a book I didn't like. Her narrative style hooks me every time and sucks me into the amazing worlds and characters she creates. I'm right there with Nali through every heartbreaking, beautiful, sexy, harrowing, destroying, redemptive moment of her journey from word one. Her descriptions paint such a vivid world I feel like I've climbed into someone else's skin and am experiencing the story through their lives. Misty is one of those authors that turns me into an addict. If I could chain her to a desk to write stories for me, I would not hesitate! LOL
Honestly, I don't know why you're still reading this review. You should be reading this series!
HOLY FREAKIN CRAP!!! Loved EVERY SINGLE MOMENT... And killing me... KILLING ME with that cliffhanger... Grrrrrrr...........
Ok...here is my full review... HOLY FREAKIN CRAP!!! I mean...OH WOW!! JAMB is just sooo phenomenal...I am sitting here trying to take it all in and wrap my brain around all that happened....Whew!!! From start to finish you are thrust back in to the world of Nalena and Garrett and let me say, IT IS A DOOZY!!
Immediately we are drawn in to the events that left us at the end of Keystone. The world is falling apart and everyone is in a disarray. We begin understanding the lengths in which they are going to have to go through in order to gain control of the chaos outside because, in order to control it, they must first control what is going on right under their own roof.
Oh goodness, I couldn't get enough of this story. It literally took me on an emotional roller coaster. There were moments of joy, passion, relief, grief, anger, worry...I was totally immersed in the lives of these characters. So invested that I was completely SHOCKED at the events that passed as I drove further along in the story. I became so pissed...I mean PISSED at what was transpiring. Albeit, I knew the reasoning behind it, but so angry that it had to happen. Man, my chest got so tight because I could feel the pain and hurt from Nalena and all I could do was keep reading, HOPING that things were going to turn around. I truly just wanted to skip this part and get to the end...The world has become such a dark place and finding the right people to trust seems almost impossible. So, as I pushed through the difficult part, I kept thinking, ok, lets get this wrapped up nice and neat....then, in the back of my head I heard Misty's evil laugh...Yeah, we still have another book after this, so, we are left with a cliffhanger...OMG...falling off the cliff dying because I WANT...NEED....to know what happens....*shakes head and sighs*
So, I now reflect on all that I took in....My thoughts have ultimately changed about certain characters when secrets were revealed. Finally some of my questions were answered that have been plaguing me, yet at the exact time, causing new ones to form. Learning more about Milo gave me a new appreciation for him. And the relationship of Nalena and Garrett touches my soul with such adoration. I absolutely LOVE reading about them.
So, I am now waiting for book 4...yes Misty...I want it now...but I know, I know...you can't rush genius... brilliance....This book is creatively unique, suspenseful, twisted, with emotional gut-wrenching moments that have you screaming at your book...If you haven't picked up this series yet...What are you waiting for??
Four solid stars: An amazing mind blowing series that you must experience for yourself!
Nali opens her eyes to find Garret's arms tightly wrapped around her. She is safe. Then the horrific truth comes crashing back and she remembers that she murdered someone to protect the Addo. The tunnels collapsed with Garrett's two younger brothers in them, and now they are missing, feared dead. The Fury are organizing and they are coming at the Ianua like never before. The world is in chaos as it has entered the Cusp. Either the Ianua will restore order and defeat The Fury, or chaos and destruction will rein and decimate the world. Nali and the rest of the Contego are in a fight for their lives as they prepare to face the oncoming threat. Can Nali and Garrett help find a way to defeat The Fury and save humanity? What I Liked: *Once again, I was completely blown away by Ms. Provencher's mad story telling skills. Her books are never dull and they are always full of big twists and surprises that never cease to amaze me. Just when I think I have it figured out, she throws in a whole bunch of wrenches and stuns me once again. If you like books that are full of huge unexpected developments this is a series you need to read! *I am absolutely in awe of Ms. Provencher's creativity. These books may be labeled as YA, but trust me, the story telling is superb and the plot is incredibly complex and detailed and there are some interesting thought provoking ideas and concepts that are far beyond anything I have read before. I wish I could better convey this to you, but I am unable to find the right words. You just need to experience for yourself. *I am a big fan of the romance in this one as it is so realistic. I like that at every step, Nali is analyzing her feelings. Sure, she is absolutely head over heels in love with Garrett, but how can she be sure that their relationship is the real deal? I love that she has her insecurities and doubts as it makes it feel so genuine. I especially enjoyed the scene where Garrett and Nali spar with each other to determine their compatibility. Before they can be married they will have to fight in front of the Addo. If one of them is able to get three hits on the other, they are not meant to be together. Though terrified, the two fight each other and that scene is incredible. I won't share the details, it is something you must read for yourself. It is an amazing scene to say the least. The other idea that I really found fascinating in this one is the whole idea of binding. Binding is marriage between Ianua, but before the ceremony can take place, the couple must spend a period of time where they wear a zipline bracelet set. Basically, they are not allowed to be more than a few feet apart during this period. They must do everything together, and if they can't hack this constant togetherness, they aren't supposed to be together. Can you imagine? If more people had to undergo this the divorce rate would be significantly lower. *Addo Larry is absolutely the shining star of this series for me. He is a wise guru man who spends a great deal of time munching cookies. I love that he is so unassuming. He has horrible taste in fashion: sweats and sandals with socks. He comes across as a carefree guy, but in reality, he is brilliant. His advice is always interesting and spot on. Addo Larry just makes me smile, and I would love to eat cookies with him anytime. Despite the fact that the end of the world is upon them, he takes it all in stride and refuses to let it ruffle his feathers. Just bring on the cookies and all will be well! If only we could all adopt his attitude. *I was absolutely riveted to the final third of this book, once Nali and Garrett end up visiting The Fury. It was frightening and exciting to finally get a peek into the world of The Fury. The action ratchets up and you get this heart pounding climax and then a jaw dropping twist at the end that left me absolutely hungry for the next book! I cannot wait to see how it all plays out. I know it will be another exciting, twisty adventure! And The Not So Much: *I struggled just a tiny bit with the pacing of this one. The middle section drags a bit after an interesting opening, and of course a couple of twists. Then the book falters as there is a great deal of time spent in the hotel compound where there is a lot of sitting around and talking and not much happening. I was a bit frustrated at this point, because there are so many characters coming and going, and I honestly had a hard time keeping track of everyone. Aside from the sparring scene between Nali and Garrett, there just isn't much going on. Thankfully, there is an attack and then the story really moves. It is jam packed and thrilling to the end so just be patient. *This series has a entire unique society and they have all kinds of foreign concepts. I admit that I had a hard time keeping track of everything. There is so much information and so many unfamiliar words and ideas that at times I was confused. I seriously felt like I needed a glossary to everything straight. This isn't a big deal, but just be informed that this is a complex read and there is a lot of information to sort through and process. I am still a bit confused over the Moxes and Protegos and all that. *This book ends abruptly, with a cliffhanger, and there are so many unanswered questions that I was just left itching to know more! I can hardly stand the wait. JAMB was another exciting and intriguing read. This series is absolutely addictive and I cannot wait for more. It is unlike anything I have read before and if you are seriously needing something that is different, I think you should check out these books. I am absolutely amazed at Ms. Provencher's talent. For all of you indie book lovers out there, this is an indie series that you must get your hands on! Don't miss it!
Favorite Quotations: "I understand that everybody wants to follow a leader who will always know better than they do and who will never make a mistake with everyone's future." "And right now, it feels like could be in the driver's seat of a truck loaded with rabbit's feet and crickets and wishbones,m and still plow into a wall." "I just want a clear idea---the dang cliff notes for my life. I want all the highlights and the detailed ending, so I know how it all turns out. I can make it through all of this, if I just know it'll end up okay."
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for my review.
Misty Provencher always manages to throw in twists that blind side me in her books. She has such a knack for humor and emotion in her books. The Cornerstone series can make my sides hurt from Zane’s dialogue, it can have me holding onto my lunch with the infamous Free Ball scenes and it can have me all tied up in knots getting all angst ridden.
JAMB was no exception.
We start off at the Hotel Celare for a quarter of the book with Addo doing what I love, being this wise, witty , cookie loving ...errr....Addo J
I love Addo Larry, he just brings something special to this series. The natives, especially the moon baring ones are getting restless and Addo does what a great Addo can, he calms the natives. The last surviving Addo has to be kept safe and tension is rife.
Addo is always planning ahead and thinking like the wise man he is.
But then Addo pops up in a canopy closer to me. He shouts again, “These Veritas tunnels are the oingo boingo!”
But things don’t go smoothly.
BAM!
The fit hits the shan ( read the book ) and chaos breaks out.
I LOVE Garrett, he is such a cool guy. He has such love for Nalena. Misty, you sure know how to get your readers all gahhhhhhh!
This smile is thick and heartless. He holds up his middle finger, aimed right at me.
Well. Done.
I was all gahhhhhhh and biting my nails and like NoooOOooooOoooo..... WT!!!!!
Rinse and repeat.
I loved what you did with characters in this book which I won’t name for spoiling.
I LOVE Willow the teddy bear. Thankyou. xxx My Willow loved her part you gave her, a very important bear. I do hope Willow is ok?
Zane is this great sidekick character, he always makes me laugh.
Zane farts.
“Actually, that was what I meant to say,” he tells his twin.
The curveballs are thrown at the reader, which I LOVED!
Clever Misty.
The ending............... OMG!
Betrayal, twists, curveballs, love, lust, angst, jealousy, humor, hunger for power, make up this installment.
Who can they truly trust? Can they trust each other? Can they find trust in thy enemy?
Once we got past the Hotel Celare, I am not joking this book took off like a Free Ball in flight. Hang on to your ...well, whatever you can grab. The pace got turned up like Batman’s Turbo Jets on his Bat Mobile.
Freakin A!
Bring. On . # 4!
Woot!
I am busting to say things but I can't for spoiling. So pickup this very original YA series and find out what I didn't tell you.
JAMB is one of those books that flows flawlessly throughout and there is never a dull moment. Like ever. I adored it. Likes lots. I can promise the plot in each of the books are totally different and totally addictive. And probably more so with JAMB. WOW! The action and the suspense was amped up tenfold. And guess what? The adventure is not over yet. I mean seriously, with an ending like that?? Yeah, riots would ensue and I would be tracking that woman down if she ended it there. I will say that the first half of the book is tense…but the second half turns to intense. Like, edge of your seat…bite your nails to the quick…intense.
With this series...the funny, witty comments and comebacks the readers see? Yep, absolutely Misty Provencher in the flesh. I know this. I have talked to her on the phone and via emails and had many lengthy facebook chats. What you read is her in real life. Hilarious. Comical. Musty. Oh wait. That is just my nickname for her. Sorry to have thrown that out there.
JAMB (and the others in the series) are no fluff story either. There is so much history and emotions to this series that the reader will actually feel the story play out. It is actually an experience rather than just a book. I really recommend you read each of these stories back to back just for the mere fact that you don’t forget the history behind it all. It is really easy to forget what everything means when you leave several months in between each book. But oh so worth it.
Romance? Oh yeah there is some romance. And there is some heart break too. Nali experiences it both in this one. At one part I honestly hurt with her as she was unsure where Garrett’s heart was truly at. Because you really cannot tell if he has turned against her or is merely acting. But again, Provencher did an amazing job playing out the feelings and the emotion between those two. I just heart them both so very much.
JAMB (and of course the whole series) is a definite must read. You will not believe all the twists, all the turns, and all the WTHs?? Just a great book that I was so excited to devour. Now I am ready for the next book and all that Provencher has for us. Bring It!
Fav lines… “I want you to know, forever, that what we have is real. That I loved you first. I never want you to question my commitment to you” (Garrett)
Words that will be my own Memory one day. I hope it will be a hundred years before I have to choose which of my Memories an Alo will record, but sometimes when Bruce and Harmon and Deeta look at me, it’s like they already know. (Nalena)
Misty Provencher’s Jamb is the third book in her popular YA Cornerstone series. In Jamb, shy, bookish Nalena has finally adapted to, and accepted her role as an Ianua Contego – a warrior meant to protect other members of the clan. She has come to trust that handsome Garrett loves her unconditionally.
But that trust is challenged in Jamb, first through a challenge set up by their friends, and later through circumstances that arise beyond both their control.
Is Garrett truly Nalena’s “vieo” (something like a soulmate)? What about the Fury -- traitors to the Ianua, and the earth in general – who is the traitor within the Ianua, and who is the infamous “Mastermind” who is organizing the Fury? Will the Ianua survive? Will the world? Will Garrett and Nalena survive “the Jamb”? What is “the Jamb,” and how (and why) are the Fury capturing souls that have passed?
These questions and more are brought up and answered in Jamb. The writing is lovely, often melodic in its narrative. The dialogue is real. The tension is palpable. The plotting is ruthless – I couldn’t put this book down until I’d finished.
I would highly recommend Jamb to both Cornerstone fans and newbies to Ms. Provencher’s work. Jamb is a page-turner, riveting the reader from beginning to end. I anxiously await the next book in the series, which, I understand, should be out sometime in the spring of 2014.
Well, well, Misty Provencher I am mad at you! Oh, yeah M-A-D! Let me explain why!!! You wrote another amazing, outstanding book! Oh yeah, you did! Now, because of your outstanding writing (and the fact that I am addicted to this series) I have to wait until the next one.
Ok, now that my rant is out of the way I can go into my review.
Best Part of Book: This is easy! The characters are the best part of the book are the best. Nali, Garrett, Sean ... all of them! Each are unique to the story but they are have their own personalities that you either love or not. I also love that each are entwined with each other. It make you appreciate each one. Although, I will say Sean is still my favorite, by far.
The other thing that I loved is Misty! Her outstanding writing and putting in some serious twist and turns into this book leaves you wanting more. If you read book 1 and think of how Nali and Garrett were then and see them now, it amazes me how much they have grown and mature.
Not so great: CLIFFHANGER! Misty best be writing as I type this! Just saying!
HOLY CRAP. NO FREAKING WAY. Jamb was the BEST! I am seriously flipping out and I feel like doing 50 cartwheels and jumping in the air like a maniac. I also feel like banging my head against a wall until the next book comes out. I am dying to know what happens next! Garrett and Nalena's relatioship is taken to the limits in Jamb and it was so good, I wish I was Nalena. I feel all jittery now. I tried to take it slow and make this book last because I didn't see any info on the fourth book yet, but I just couldn't stop myself! Although, it was totally worth it. Cornerstone series is a definite favorite of mine!
So good!!! So freakin' good!!! I will warn you, though, some parts of this were physically painful to read! Everyone seems to have lost their minds so who on earth can be trusted now? There are surprises around every corner (some will really knock your socks off)and danger coming at them from all sides. Most of the time I spent biting my nails and worrying, but there were a few steamy scenes to remind me that love can never be defeated. Once again, you won't be able to put this down until the end & then you will be begging for more!
Guys, I have really grown attached to this series. We are on book # 3 of a four book suite, and I have really become comfortable with the characters, especially Nalena and Garrett. Sometimes books that stretch into 4 books and beyond wear on me. I find myself getting bored with the characters and the extensive plot line(s). But that hasn't happened with the Cornerstone series. Instead it kind of feels like catching up with an old friend, you know?
If you have read my reviews of the first two books in this series (you can find the links highlighted above) then you know that I have been really impressed with the development of both the story and the characters. I liked Cornerstone a lot, but I was pretty blown away by Keystone. So it was with excitement (and a little bit of anxiety) that I started Jamb. Excitement to see what happens next and anxiety that the book may not knock my socks off like it's predecessor did. Happy to report that my anxiety was for naught:)
First a brief Keystone recap: At the end of book #2, Nali has received a new connection and it is none other than her father Roger, the man that turned traitor to the Ianua and murdered her grandfather and mother. The Mastermind is still unknown, as are the whereabouts of Nali's grandfather's memory, which holds the key to bringing down The Fury. Closer to home Sean, Garrett's brother and a Simple, announces that he has been selected to train to become an Addo. Milo, the mysterious lone survivor of his Cura, is revealed to be a spy for The Fury, but instead of turning on the Ianua, turns double agent and agrees to help the Addo. In a dramatic showdown, Nali kills Addo Chad, a spy for The Fury who was attempting to abduct Iris, believing her to be "the Key." While escaping The Fury that have overrun them, Nali collapses a Veritas tunnel, unsure if Garrett's younger brothers Mark and Brandon, as well as the Veritas Nok, made it out in time. It turns out Iris was never "the Key", Nali is. Nali also learns that she is a Tralate. As Nali grapples with this discovery, as well as whether she can actually trust her dad to guide her, the surviving upper castes of the remaining Curas hole up in the Hotel Celare, a sanctuary fashioned for just that purpose. The book ends with Nali and Garrett watching the rioting Fury bear down on the hotel.
Jamb begins immediately after the events of Keystone. Mark, Brandon, and Nok are still missing. Sean is selected as Addo Larry's mox, and is training to become an Addo to help fill the shortage after all the others were murdered. Nobody trusts Milo anymore, except for Addo Larry and Deeta, who has a massive crush on him. As all the Ianua are hunkered down in the Hotel Celare, it becomes clear that no one trusts anyone anymore. The air is full of suspicion as nobody is sure who is loyal and who may be secretly working for The Fury. The Cura's are segregated to different floors and lack of communication is becoming a real problem.
The first part of Jamb moves a bit slowly as the Ianua remain sequestered waiting for Addo Larry to relay information to them. The news from the outside is not good. The Cusp is in full effect and the world is spinning into anarchy. Violent crime is on the rise, and the Simple (average, everyday humans) are oblivious to the real reason why. Nali, Garrett and their Contego friends continue to train, nervously waiting for the next attack on the Addo and the group. When the Addo finally hold the Totus a special meeting to outline what is known, some shocking things come to light.
So, obviously, I am not going to tell what these shocking things are, because that would be very spoilery. But some things happen that I definitely did not see coming. The story takes a very interesting turn about a third of the way through.
As always, Misty's writing sucked me right back into the story. The book is a bit lopsided in that the first half takes place entirely within the walls of the Celare, and a lot of information is passed on to the reader about where the Ianua and The Fury stand. The identity of the Mastermind is still unknown. Garrett and Nali's relationship is moving along, and there is more talk about Binding, the Ianua equivalent of marriage, which both excites Nali and terrifies her. There is some drama between Milo, Deeta and Zaneen. But I began to wonder when things were going to pick up, action-wise.
Well. At about the halfway mark, BAM. The proverbial shit hits the fan, in a big way. I cannot divulge too much information without spoiling, but let's just say that those of us who have been wanting more insight into who The Fury are and what their life is like, get a front and center view. In the end, this was definitely my favorite aspect of Jamb. There are more shocking revelations and Nali and Garrett's relationship and faith in each other is put to the test. Like BIGTIME.
The first part of this book might have moved at a leisurely pace but by the last half my heart was racing as I was nervously flipping pages (or tapping my Kindle in this case.) And although Provencher's first two books ended on a stable note, she definitely ups the anxiety anty and ends Jamb on a serious cliffhanger. I mean like WHOA.
I think that fans of this series will be happy with the direction Jamb takes as a whole. And if you are a little thrown by the pacing I have one word for you: PERSEVERE. It get's all kind of crazy and nail- biting exciting at a certain point in the book. The Mastermind is revealed in this book at last as are the the whereabouts of many missing memories. I am super excited to see how this will all play out in the final installment of the series.
So, in conclusion, it's safe to say that I am in this series for the duration, because I HAVE to see what happens next and how this story will end. Bring it on, Misty! I'm ready:)
OMGosh! This one is the best of the series so far. PLUS only one spelling error. It ended in a cliffhanger so if that’s not your jam you might not want to read it but I am so totally hooked. Plus I bought the box set so as soon as I’m done here I’m starting the very next one.
Spoiler free for the series. Wowee, wow, wow, wow! (Yes, I've been reading too much Junie B. Jones) This book was INTENSE!
There's not a lot I can really get into without spoiling things from the previous books and since this is a series I VERY highly recommend I just want to convince you all to read this series already! Even if the first book is/was a so-so read for you, I encourage you to keep reading because the stakes just get higher and higher.
Misty Provencher has created a very unique story here. While it's kind of paranormal, it's not really. I suppose maybe the super power side of paranormal as there are no paranormal 'creatures' or anything.
The characters in this series are great. They are so easy to connect with and fall in love with. Girls everywhere swoon over the Reese boys so you don't want to miss getting to know them. I also love the family relationships in these books. Family is very important and the Reese family is just so much fun to read about. They're a large family that has a lot of banter going on. But in this book the stakes are raised higher and the banter is not as present. I don't want to get into it too much, but I was so busy wrapping my mind around all the crazy going on that I didn't miss the banter too much. There was still a little, but really there wasn't time to get much since it was all life or death most of the time.
Lots of twists and turns that I didn't see coming in this book. I started to feel like I was in a whirlwind in this one because things were coming at me so fast and furious I couldn't wrap my mind around it all fast enough to really understand what was happening. I always tend to get lost in the fight scenes of any book but this one had a series of some pretty continuous stuff. While this kept me holding my breath and nearly dying from the intenseness, I did feel a bit lost.
Before the point of craziness there was lots of kissing and hot scenes with Nali and Garrett for those who love the smoochy scenes. Things definitely got heated in this one!
This is still a pretty clean series. While there's kissing and some talk of sex in the future nothing more than kissing happens. But there's some stuff later in the book that's insinuated with other characters.
The end of this book is pretty killer. Yes, Misty is killing us with a cliffhanger! I about screamed when I flipped the page and there wasn't anymore! Then I proceeded to dream (literally) various different endings that could happen (all horrible and very scary). So this is a book that's most definitely sticking with me and I am WAY eager for the next one! Despite the whirlwind and the cliffhanger I decided I absolutely loved this book. I was still emotionally invested in it and the characters I've grown to really love.
Misty Provencher always manages to throw in twists that blind side me in her books. She has such a knack for humor and emotion in her books. The Cornerstone series can make my sides hurt from Zane’s dialogue, it can have me holding onto my lunch with the infamous Free Ball scenes and it can have me all tied up in knots getting all angst ridden.
JAMB was no exception.
We start off at the Hotel Celare for a quarter of the book with Addo doing what I love, being this wise, witty , cookie loving ...errr....Addo J
I love Addo Larry, he just brings something special to this series. The natives, especially the moon baring ones are getting restless and Addo does what a great Addo can, he calms the natives. The last surviving Addo has to be kept safe and tension is rife.
Addo is always planning ahead and thinking like the wise man he is.
But then Addo pops up in a canopy closer to me. He shouts again, “These Veritas tunnels are the oingo boingo!”
But things don’t go smoothly.
BAM!
The fit hits the shan ( read the book ) and chaos breaks out.
I LOVE Garrett, he is such a cool guy. He has such love for Nalena. Misty, you sure know how to get your readers all gahhhhhhh!
This smile is thick and heartless. He holds up his middle finger, aimed right at me.
Well. Done.
I was all gahhhhhhh and biting my nails and like NoooOOooooOoooo..... WT!!!!!
Rinse and repeat.
I loved what you did with characters in this book which I won’t name for spoiling.
I LOVE Willow the teddy bear. Thankyou. xxx My Willow loved her part you gave her, a very important bear. I do hope Willow is ok?
Zane is this great sidekick character, he always makes me laugh.
Zane farts.
“Actually, that was what I meant to say,” he tells his twin.
The curveballs are thrown at the reader, which I LOVED!
Clever Misty.
The ending............... OMG!
Betrayal, twists, curveballs, love, lust, angst, jealousy, humor, hunger for power, make up this installment.
Who can they truly trust? Can they trust each other? Can they find trust in thy enemy?
Once we got past the Hotel Celare, I am not joking this book took off like a Free Ball in flight. Hang on to your ...well, whatever you can grab. The pace got turned up like Batman’s Turbo Jets on his Bat Mobile.
Freakin A!
Bring. On . # 4!
Woot!
I am busting to say things but I can't for spoiling. So pickup this very original YA series and find out what I didn't tell you.
Wow! Misty does it again. If you've read any of the Cornerstone series, you know it's a story richly detailed with an intricate and always intense plotline. Jamb is no exception. Jamb picks up right where Keystone left us... in the middle of an uproar, full of chaos with everyone questioning loyalties, and Nalena recovering and trying to make sense of it all. That's no easy task. The Ianua's Cura's are crumbling. Addo Larry's Cura is isolated, and all out war seems inevitable. It's absolute insanity. With so much lost in the previous installment it's hard to believe the stakes could get any higher, that there could be more loss and sacrifice, that emotions could be heightened nearly to the point of frenzy, but that's exactly what happens here. And it calls for extreme measures. So much information is thrown at Nali that she has a hard time knowing what to believe, who to trust, what to do next, and whether she can depend on her father as her Connection and Garrett as her Vieo. It creates the inability to see the truth right before your eyes. And makes her position, responsibilities and cool more difficult to control. This story sent me on the biggest roller coaster ride EVER. Each time I thought Nalena and crew made some headway, another wrench is tossed in the spoke and the tables turn. Even as I read passages of speculating, calculating, and planning, I was on the edge of my seat quickly turning page after page trying to anticipate what was coming next. Now I'm pretty good at predicting scenarios, but Misty fooled me again and again, amping up my emotions and fueling my anxiety as I hoped and prayed, chewing my nails to the quick, that everyone would come out alive. So much is crammed into this beauty that it's easy to get lost in it. You get so caught up in the Ianua world, their way of thinking, their community, and you find yourself questioning what and who you believe, who Nalena should follow and how this could possibly end in any way but badly. So you hold your breathe; anticipation and hope building to the last page where... You guessed it. Another. Major. CLIFFHANGER. UGH! Mary, Jesus and Joseph! Sweet agony and torture. But never fear, Misty leaves you with just enough hope that everyone returns and they may finally be able to Reset and save mankind. Well, she leaves you hoping anyway... Jamb is full of action, passion, thrills and surprises. And though it was often dark, gut wrenching, shocking and downright sad, it filled my heart with more love for these fantastic characters, and left me itching to get my hands on book four. Is it ready yet, Misty???
The action didn’t really get underway until about 50% of the way through, when they left the Hotel Celare. Until then, they were just milling around, being generally suspicious of everyone not in their own Cura (group) and reacting to various eruptions of drama. Between the drama, Garrett and Nalena made out a lot, got interrupted a lot, Deeta mooned after Milo who mooned after Zaneen, and the Addo ate a lot of cookies and displayed a flagrant disregard for his own safety. Once Garrett and Nalena left (and by left I mean “got attacked and had to flee for a while”), they wound up at the Fury’s headquarters where the action was at least more interesting, just again, not highly action. They wandered around the Fury HQ, men in varying states of poor hygiene and insanity tried to get at Nalena, and for plot reasons, Nalena has to fake a relationship with Milo while Garrett fakes one with a girl named Teagan who has a baby named Grace. The Milo/Nalena part in particular smacked of an attempted love triangle, which of course fizzled out before it could really be an issue, but I still didn’t like the confusion and the drama of it all. Having Nalena and Garrett not together and pretending to be all into other people just annoyed me as a reader.
Writing
The editing wasn’t as great as previous Provencher novels have been. Provencher’s self-published novels really impressed me in the first two installments of this series, but there were some grammatical mistakes (apostrophe errors, a couple of awkward sentences) that really surprised me and gave the book an unpolished feel. With the editing plus the issues I had with the plot and pacing, Jamb really had all the hallmarks of a middle series book and didn’t serve a lot of purpose overall. Now that I’ve finished Capstone (review to come soon), I’m really of the opinion that the entire first half of Jamb could have been condensed, some of the development wrapped up into a short paragraph saying “we spent a month holed up in the hotel, etc etc” and the bulk of the action from the last half of Jamb and all of Capstone could have been condensed into one novel.
I didn't enjoy this as much as her previous two books, but it was definitely a solid addition to the storyline.
WIth most series, I get frustrated with the way the author constantly recaps what happened in previous books. Typically I read a series entirely at one time, because I tend to be late to the reading party, so I usually finish one and instantly pick up another. Because this wasn't out yet, it had been quite a while since I last read the series. This is the first time I noticed an author *not* recap what happened in previous books, and although I'd normally list it as a pro, today I have to list it as a con. This series has its own world that is unlike any other. Because it had been a solid few months since I read the first two, I completely forgot pretty much all the intricacies of the Ianua world. I forgot most characters' names and how they were related to each other, I completely forgot everything that happened in the previous book with the Addos, so when this book picked up, I had zero clue what was happening.
That's mostly my fault for reading so many books in between and not buying this until I had Amazon credit in my account. But at the same time, I wish there had been even the smallest recap just to refresh the readers what transpired. About a third of the way in a few points were brought up again and I was so thankful because I had completely forgotten them.
That being said, I did enjoy the continuation of the storyline and I thought the in-depth look at the Fury hideout was fascinating. However, I felt that it was a bit convoluted at times and didn't seem to have the same flow that I liked in the previous books. There were certain moments were the action seemed a bit disjointed or downright confusing, though that may have been due to me not remembering the previous books, so again, possibly my fault.
I wish it didn't end on a cliffhanger AGAIN, though it was a great plot twist to throw in, so I look forward to reading the next book!
Jamb.... Jamb... Oh my Nalena and Garrett my heart goes out to them. This story had me crying, laughing and then just down right pissed off at some characters and things that happened. Lord I laughed when I was done reading it because Misty sure the hell knows how to get my heart pumping and my anger boiling. Lord I felt like the Greek Furies at some points in Jamb and then I got a grip and kept reading. I have to say that at one point I thought I was not going to be able to finish the story because I was so emotional.
Nalena and Garrett are back. Jamb picks up right after Keystone where the world is falling apart and everyone is worried was is going to happen. Where does this go and how much more suffering do they have to endure? Nalena and Garrett have a lot to do in order to regain control over things. But in order to do that they will have to delve deep into their own lives and the things they have been through. They will have to clean their own house up first and then they can fix the world. Nalena will go through a lot in this book and let me say this I am proud of her because she becomes this uber strong character and gets through all this crap and still has her wits about her.
Secrets will be revealed and friendships will be broken and some will be formed. But at the end of the day Nalena will do whatever it takes to make things right.So when the dust settles where will the world be? Where will Garrett and Nalena be? Will they be together? Will there be a world to return to?
Wow! Starts where Keystone leaves off, and you get a brief warm up before we swing into high gear!
What I liked: I love Nali and Garrett and well, really the entire group. I love that Nali may have her insecurities where Garrett and her are concerned, but for the most part she worked through them. She is very level headed for a young girl in love. Garrett is amazing, what young girl wouldn't want to find him! Garrett's mother is one of my favorite characters because of her strength. The way she leads by example, regardless of how her heart may be breaking, she follows protocol. I admire the hell out of her. Now, it is no secret that I'm a huge fan of Misty's anyway, but I really think that this is my favorite book of the series, because we see all of the characters deepen so much.
It was one heck of an emotional roller coaster ride there for a bit, but if you've read many of my reviews you know that I believe that if an author causes me to feel emotion(s) then they have done their job, and done it well. Did I want to throw my iPad across the room a time or two? Yes I did! I laughed, I cried, and I was furious that the book ended because I wanted more!
What I didn't like: Truthfully the only complaint I have is that it ended.
Would I recommend this book? Yes! The entire series is well worth reading! I personally cannot wait until book 4 comes out!
(First paragraph is definitely spoiler-free, but after that since it’s book 3 in a series some things might be minor spoilers to previous books in the series & if you haven’t read them yet, what are you waiting for & go enter the giveaway!!)
OK, I need to start off with a massive fangirl SQUEEE! If you aren’t already huge fans of The Cornerstone Series like me, let me tell you a few things: You will be immersed in a world that is deep, rich, brilliantly thought out and unbelievably magical! You will not be bored, you will be enthralled! And you will fall in love with Nalena & Garrett! This book is so amazing; no wait this series is so amazing. Every word, every thought, every feel in this book is pure perfection! I couldn’t stop thinking about this book for weeks after I finished it. So much so that writing this review has plagued me…I feel like all I can say about it is – YOU ALL MUST READ this series! But I’ll try to say a little more.
So here we are in a series that I desperately want to love and I'm just not getting there.
Here's why: I still have questions about details of the world building that would make it that much more complete for me (ie. What does everyone else's tea leaves look like if they haven't found their other half? and other small gaps of knowledge of character motivations > I'll post them as I remember). I also feel like we are just skimming the surface of a deep lake and I'm not getting everything that could make me fall in love with Nali and Garrett.
I did like a lot
I will give Ms Provencher props for a good story line and for getting me hooked on the books - I will for sure read the next one, but sad pandas that we have to wait a whole year!
This book was just as amazing as the other two in the series. I loved it. I read these 3 books in a weekend and now have to wait for the fourth. That is the worst part!
This book was non-stop action from page one. I love how each book picks up right where the last one leaves off. I also like that the author doesn't spend a lot of time rehashing things that we already know from the previous books. Sometimes that is really annoying. The characters are still amazing and we get to learn some interesting and shocking things in this book. I found myself tearing up a few times at the heart-wrenching moments. The love story is still incredible. Who doesn't love Nalena and Garrett! I don't like giving away spoilers in my reviews so I won't say too much more.
I love this series and I don't say that too often. I also don't get sucked in and so entranced that I read more than one book a day. This is definitely worth your time!
Oh my God, this book just does not let you catch your breath. Everytime I thought I knew where the story was going, it just ran off in the opposite direction and even so much better than what I would have expected. Book 3 in the Cornerstone series is even better than book 1 and 2, but if Misty Provencher would make it any more suspenseful, I think my head just might explode.
I don't want to give anything away of the storyline, but it is nice to learn more about Nali, Garrett, Sean and Milo as well as all the other characters. Just the cliffhanger at the end....seriously Misty?!?! Why torture us? What have we done to you? Lol.
Her books are definitely fabulous. Her story-telling is compelling and captivating. This women has the fantasy and talent worth hundreds of authors.
Nalena ist in dem Wirrwarr nach dem Überfall/Umsturz im Celare mit Milo bei den Furys gelandet. Gleichzeitig nimmt Garrett den Platz seines Bruder Sean ein und läuft mit Teagan ebenfalls über. Sie erhoffen sich 'Mastermind' zu finden, den Lenker hinter den Furys. Das Leben in Anarchie ist von Gewalt und Chaos geprägt. Sex hat wohl auch was anarchisches an sich - jedenfalls fällt Nalena dauernd über wilde Paare. Interessant war die Außenwelt, die mittlerweile ebenfalls in Gewalt und Tod versinkt. Und Nalenas Zweifel an Milo und sogar an Garrett. Alles in allem etwas spannender, als der zweite Teil, aber kein Vergleich mit dem ersten. Trotz allem möchte ich wissen, wie alles zu Ende geht. Mal schauen, wann der nächste Teil kommt.
Loved it. I was wondering what the meaning of this title was, and yes I get it. I am so glad that you have allowed us to peek into your imagination. What else do you have going on in there? I wish there was more Garrett and Nila kissing here, but I am betting this will all be worth it at the end. I recomend this book, Misty Provencher is unpredictable and I never know what she will serve me next. Oh and I love how she used the game Whack-a-mole to describe a crazy fighting scene. I could not stop giggling.