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Siren of Shehan #1
Rise of the Melody
**currently off-sale/shelved for now by author**
From the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the YA paranormal Sweet Evil series comes a modern fantasy romance of mystery with Celtic and Gaelic mythology.
Seventeen-year-old Colette “Letty” MacIntyre has everything going for her: a great life with her Aunt Lorna in Brooklyn, a promising singing career, and enough distractions to forget the tragic disappearance of her parents. She’s banking on a bright future in the city until strange things begin to happen. People are suddenly having peculiar reactions to her singing voice, and a giant wolfhound starts following her like a lost puppy. But the cherry on top is when the mayor of her long-forgotten birthplace, Shehan, a town on a mountainous island off the craggy northern coast of Maine, shows up on her doorstep with an impossible revelation: the folklore stories she grew up hearing are real. Letty is the last land siren on Earth…and he needs her help.
An escaped kelpie—a monstrous water horse—is terrorizing Shehan, and Letty’s voice is the only thing that can stop it. Despite the shock at learning her heritage, Letty returns to the island, which is filled with as much mystery as it is fog. She wants answers to her parents’ disappearance as well as a chance to prove herself. But in a race of mighty druids and formidable Scottish witches, Letty’s power is an anomaly, feared and reviled by the mystic community. Her lineage must be kept secret. It becomes even harder to fulfil these tasks when a new enemy threatens her—an alluring, powerful druid boy filled with darkness who would just as soon kill her as kiss her.
Will her deadly melody be enough to save the town and herself?
From the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the YA paranormal Sweet Evil series comes a modern fantasy romance of mystery with Celtic and Gaelic mythology.
Seventeen-year-old Colette “Letty” MacIntyre has everything going for her: a great life with her Aunt Lorna in Brooklyn, a promising singing career, and enough distractions to forget the tragic disappearance of her parents. She’s banking on a bright future in the city until strange things begin to happen. People are suddenly having peculiar reactions to her singing voice, and a giant wolfhound starts following her like a lost puppy. But the cherry on top is when the mayor of her long-forgotten birthplace, Shehan, a town on a mountainous island off the craggy northern coast of Maine, shows up on her doorstep with an impossible revelation: the folklore stories she grew up hearing are real. Letty is the last land siren on Earth…and he needs her help.
An escaped kelpie—a monstrous water horse—is terrorizing Shehan, and Letty’s voice is the only thing that can stop it. Despite the shock at learning her heritage, Letty returns to the island, which is filled with as much mystery as it is fog. She wants answers to her parents’ disappearance as well as a chance to prove herself. But in a race of mighty druids and formidable Scottish witches, Letty’s power is an anomaly, feared and reviled by the mystic community. Her lineage must be kept secret. It becomes even harder to fulfil these tasks when a new enemy threatens her—an alluring, powerful druid boy filled with darkness who would just as soon kill her as kiss her.
Will her deadly melody be enough to save the town and herself?
290 pages, Paperback
First published March 4, 2024
13 people are currently reading
797 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Higgins
20 books7,954 followersWendy Higgins is a USA Today and NY Times bestselling author.
After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer.
After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer.
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February 11, 2024I'm finally finished with this fun lil story. :) Here is what you can expect:
~Upper YA (17yo main character) with adult crossover appeal and dark themes
~3-4 books in the series (sales permitting)
~slight cliffhangers in each book until we get to the ending
~A "golden retriever/cinnamon roll" love interest
~A grumpy/tortured love interest
~Enemies to Lovers
~A true YA (this was inspired by my 17yo daughter, so yes, it's a book about teens)
~Sexual references, innuendoes, kissing, making-out, and sexual tension
~Sexiness, but no sex on the page and no erotic words
~Mild cursing
~Expect to GOL (giggle out loud)
~Upper YA (17yo main character) with adult crossover appeal and dark themes
~3-4 books in the series (sales permitting)
~slight cliffhangers in each book until we get to the ending
~A "golden retriever/cinnamon roll" love interest
~A grumpy/tortured love interest
~Enemies to Lovers
~A true YA (this was inspired by my 17yo daughter, so yes, it's a book about teens)
~Sexual references, innuendoes, kissing, making-out, and sexual tension
~Sexiness, but no sex on the page and no erotic words
~Mild cursing
~Expect to GOL (giggle out loud)
May 26, 2024
Rise of the Melody Review on K-Books
I have been a huge fan of Wendy Higgins for a long time. I fell head over heels in love with her stories back in the early 2010’s with her Sweet Evil series. As a huge YA Fantasy lover, I was so excited to see that she was writing another YA novel. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it, and I was super excited to dive in. Rightfully so as well, as this book was absolutely fantastic. I loved every single moment of this book.
Rise of the Melody follows the story of Letty, a young girl who loves to sing. But when her singing teacher has a very strange reaction to her singing one day, lots of secrets start to come out. She is exposed to a whole hidden world of magical creatures. As her and her Aunt go back ‘home’ she discovers more about her history and her role as the last Land Siren. But not it all as it seems and things are more dangerous than she could ever imagine.
I truly loved everything about this book. I love the Scottish and Irish Folklore influences that are expertly woven throughout this book. I loved learning about all of the different creatures of this folklore along with Letty. I think Wendy has done an absolutely amazing job of having the main character not knowing anything about this world, as the reader gets to learn all of this alongside her. I really enjoyed this aspect, and it really made me feel connected to Letty a lot more.
The characters in this book were definitely one of the things that made it so amazing. Whether it was Letty and her discovery of who she is or one of the amazing new magical friends that she makes along the way, there is a whole cast of amazing characters for you to connect to. I loved the friendships that were really vital to this story. Female friendships are so important and to see Letty find her found family in them was just such a joy to read. I really loved it so much.
Rise of the Melody is such a fantastic first book in a series. It is fast paced and action packed, filled with phenomenal characters and a hint of mystery and intrigue. I loved every single second of it, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the second book in the series. Wendy Higgins is well and truly back and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
I have been a huge fan of Wendy Higgins for a long time. I fell head over heels in love with her stories back in the early 2010’s with her Sweet Evil series. As a huge YA Fantasy lover, I was so excited to see that she was writing another YA novel. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it, and I was super excited to dive in. Rightfully so as well, as this book was absolutely fantastic. I loved every single moment of this book.
Rise of the Melody follows the story of Letty, a young girl who loves to sing. But when her singing teacher has a very strange reaction to her singing one day, lots of secrets start to come out. She is exposed to a whole hidden world of magical creatures. As her and her Aunt go back ‘home’ she discovers more about her history and her role as the last Land Siren. But not it all as it seems and things are more dangerous than she could ever imagine.
I truly loved everything about this book. I love the Scottish and Irish Folklore influences that are expertly woven throughout this book. I loved learning about all of the different creatures of this folklore along with Letty. I think Wendy has done an absolutely amazing job of having the main character not knowing anything about this world, as the reader gets to learn all of this alongside her. I really enjoyed this aspect, and it really made me feel connected to Letty a lot more.
The characters in this book were definitely one of the things that made it so amazing. Whether it was Letty and her discovery of who she is or one of the amazing new magical friends that she makes along the way, there is a whole cast of amazing characters for you to connect to. I loved the friendships that were really vital to this story. Female friendships are so important and to see Letty find her found family in them was just such a joy to read. I really loved it so much.
Rise of the Melody is such a fantastic first book in a series. It is fast paced and action packed, filled with phenomenal characters and a hint of mystery and intrigue. I loved every single second of it, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the second book in the series. Wendy Higgins is well and truly back and I can’t wait to see what she does next!
March 13, 2024
This had so much potential but felt like it was very YA so too young for me. All the slang and younger language made it less sophisticated, so I didn’t really enjoy it. I do think the story line/world building had potential though
March 21, 2024
Actual Rating; 3.5 stars!
February 26, 2024
Omg it's so cool to read a book from Wendy again. And damn it has all the sweet evil series vibes.
I love Colette and I bet on Zar.
I want the 'next book because my little heart needs to know everything.
I love Colette and I bet on Zar.
I want the 'next book because my little heart needs to know everything.
May 25, 2024
Refreshing and so fun! Wendy does SUCH a good job of accurately portraying current teens. Characters are nuanced, have common sense, and speak like Gen Z (a compliment, as I am one). I don’t think the slang would annoy most older readers - it’s a light touch, but enough to keep it feeling realistic. It seems accessible for all, and integrated well. We love to see it. ;) The world building was wonderful - I was picturing the gorgeous Bar Harbor, Maine, which I later learned was inspiration - and reading this brought me back to a vacation. (*Sends a grateful nod to the author.*)
I also appreciate how many of the cliches common in YA romances weren’t present. I think Wendy does an excellent job of avoiding them across her books. (I’ve read the Sweet Evil series, a few of her standalones, and The Great Hunt, which I also really liked.) In this genre there’s often a strange brand of pseudo-feminism where a protagonist is stated or shown to be exceptionally strong or smart, but she utterly lacks emotional intelligence, doesn’t seem to have solid friendships, tends to lack common sense, and needs to gain basic communication skills. Not in a relatable, everyone-can-be-dumb kind of way, but in a truly *how did you not see this coming when the writing is THIS heavy-handed?!* kind of way. I also really dislike conflicts that could be solved with a conversation; it’s lazy writing. So, it was so refreshing to read a book that didn’t have any of that, and where the main character - and all of the characters - felt human (even when they’re mystical).
The protagonist of Rise of the Melody, Letty, does have powerful magic, but she is also kind, sets boundaries, has a fully-brought-to-life friend group that was such a dream to read about, and is protective of those she loves in a thoughtful way. (The scenes of the day she spent relaxing with her friends made my heart burst.) I think it really speaks to how good of a person the author must be to be able to write characters this way. I’m SO looking forward to the sequel. (Thank you, Wendy, in advance. 🥹)
Sorta-spoiler about one of the characters below:
Teague reminded me so much of an ex that I had to keep pausing for a min and putting the book down. I had a different order to the events in my life, but he’s similar enough that I was getting flashbacks. Like, uffff, but I also appreciate being able to relate to Letty. It was interesting to compare her perspective and decisions with mine (and, hey, neither Teague nor my ex are all bad).
I also appreciate how many of the cliches common in YA romances weren’t present. I think Wendy does an excellent job of avoiding them across her books. (I’ve read the Sweet Evil series, a few of her standalones, and The Great Hunt, which I also really liked.) In this genre there’s often a strange brand of pseudo-feminism where a protagonist is stated or shown to be exceptionally strong or smart, but she utterly lacks emotional intelligence, doesn’t seem to have solid friendships, tends to lack common sense, and needs to gain basic communication skills. Not in a relatable, everyone-can-be-dumb kind of way, but in a truly *how did you not see this coming when the writing is THIS heavy-handed?!* kind of way. I also really dislike conflicts that could be solved with a conversation; it’s lazy writing. So, it was so refreshing to read a book that didn’t have any of that, and where the main character - and all of the characters - felt human (even when they’re mystical).
The protagonist of Rise of the Melody, Letty, does have powerful magic, but she is also kind, sets boundaries, has a fully-brought-to-life friend group that was such a dream to read about, and is protective of those she loves in a thoughtful way. (The scenes of the day she spent relaxing with her friends made my heart burst.) I think it really speaks to how good of a person the author must be to be able to write characters this way. I’m SO looking forward to the sequel. (Thank you, Wendy, in advance. 🥹)
Sorta-spoiler about one of the characters below:
Teague reminded me so much of an ex that I had to keep pausing for a min and putting the book down. I had a different order to the events in my life, but he’s similar enough that I was getting flashbacks. Like, uffff, but I also appreciate being able to relate to Letty. It was interesting to compare her perspective and decisions with mine (and, hey, neither Teague nor my ex are all bad).
March 13, 2024
Every time I think I’m done with love triangles, writes drag me back in. I’m not complaining, at all, but damn … I wish I’d stop getting hurt like this, especially since I will always make the morally gray choice – and it’s a choice authors often ignore. I’m looking at you, Leigh Bardugo.
But anyways. I believe this is the first book I’ve read by Wendy Higgins and I must say, it’s a fun ride. Rise of the Melody reads incredibly fast and is well-paced in general. While there might not be as well descriptive language or fantastical backstory, it tells the story it wants to tell very well and gives you a look into the world in a way that keeps you engaged.
Sometimes with fantasy tales I get a bit lost in the huge history chapters and while it’s fun, I’m happy there’s still room for lighter stories. Don’t get me wrong, this book definitely has it dark points and the stakes and prejudice in this book strikes hard but I never got the feeling that I needed to put the book down.
Our main character, Letty, definitely has a strong will but still very vulnerable – and I love to see it. Starting with a character completely in the dark, especially for urban fantasy stories, is always a great way to engage the reader quick without it coming over as unneeded exposition.
Then we come to the love triange and oh boy. I don’t know what it says about me that when a nice friendly guy gets introduced as a love interest, I immediately think “Meh. Boring. Give me something spicier.” And then I get it. Give me a mysterious dark and handsome dude any day. We’ll have to wait what happens seeing this is a series of books. (The bane of my existance)
All in all, I think this is a fun story and I would definitely recommend it. It has a fascinating magic system and creatures that live in their community, and it truly adds a lot to the story.
FULL REVIEW: https://wolfsbanebooks.wordpress.com/...
But anyways. I believe this is the first book I’ve read by Wendy Higgins and I must say, it’s a fun ride. Rise of the Melody reads incredibly fast and is well-paced in general. While there might not be as well descriptive language or fantastical backstory, it tells the story it wants to tell very well and gives you a look into the world in a way that keeps you engaged.
Sometimes with fantasy tales I get a bit lost in the huge history chapters and while it’s fun, I’m happy there’s still room for lighter stories. Don’t get me wrong, this book definitely has it dark points and the stakes and prejudice in this book strikes hard but I never got the feeling that I needed to put the book down.
Our main character, Letty, definitely has a strong will but still very vulnerable – and I love to see it. Starting with a character completely in the dark, especially for urban fantasy stories, is always a great way to engage the reader quick without it coming over as unneeded exposition.
Then we come to the love triange and oh boy. I don’t know what it says about me that when a nice friendly guy gets introduced as a love interest, I immediately think “Meh. Boring. Give me something spicier.” And then I get it. Give me a mysterious dark and handsome dude any day. We’ll have to wait what happens seeing this is a series of books. (The bane of my existance)
All in all, I think this is a fun story and I would definitely recommend it. It has a fascinating magic system and creatures that live in their community, and it truly adds a lot to the story.
FULL REVIEW: https://wolfsbanebooks.wordpress.com/...
March 22, 2024
Wendy Higgins is an author I will instantly read because I fall in love with her words, characters and worlds. She just has a way of capturing my whole attention with her amazing stories, and Rise of the Melody was no exception! I read this in less than 24 hours and I oh so wish book 2 was already in my hands!
Letty's whole life has just imploded around her. Everything she thought she knew was completely false and her love for singing has been obliterated into something she can never do. But I gotta say, she rolled with the changes and dived into her new normal fairly smoothly. I would have went kicking and screaming if I were in her shoes. Her Aunt Lorna sacrificed so much to protect Letty and I love that so much. True love for someone in your life to abandon everything you knew and love to protect the last relative.
Teague, Clare, Chrys, Nora, and Shandi were super sweet and nice to Letty when she got there. I loved seeing them include Letty in their lives like they grew up together for the past 13 years. And Letty finally just got to be a girl who had friends, at least for a little bit.
As always, I have a team. I'm totally Team Zar. If Teague gets picked, I might cry, because I really love Xarus and he's just such a mystery that I hope we can unravel and see him open up with his body, heart and soul with Letty.
CooShay is amazing and I love his presence in this book. I keep expecting this animal to talk because he's so human-like haha.
Safe to say I have once again fallen hard for another Wendy Higgins masterpiece and I will be here cheering in the background for book 2 and any other future books by her! I'll be getting my physical copy to add to my shrine soon and can go stare at it lovingly! Definitely recommend picking this book up!
Letty's whole life has just imploded around her. Everything she thought she knew was completely false and her love for singing has been obliterated into something she can never do. But I gotta say, she rolled with the changes and dived into her new normal fairly smoothly. I would have went kicking and screaming if I were in her shoes. Her Aunt Lorna sacrificed so much to protect Letty and I love that so much. True love for someone in your life to abandon everything you knew and love to protect the last relative.
Teague, Clare, Chrys, Nora, and Shandi were super sweet and nice to Letty when she got there. I loved seeing them include Letty in their lives like they grew up together for the past 13 years. And Letty finally just got to be a girl who had friends, at least for a little bit.
As always, I have a team. I'm totally Team Zar. If Teague gets picked, I might cry, because I really love Xarus and he's just such a mystery that I hope we can unravel and see him open up with his body, heart and soul with Letty.
CooShay is amazing and I love his presence in this book. I keep expecting this animal to talk because he's so human-like haha.
Safe to say I have once again fallen hard for another Wendy Higgins masterpiece and I will be here cheering in the background for book 2 and any other future books by her! I'll be getting my physical copy to add to my shrine soon and can go stare at it lovingly! Definitely recommend picking this book up!
March 14, 2024
Sweetheart siren meets druid with scottish accent and an adorable harbinger of death
Rise Of The Melody is here – the start of the new Siren of Shehan universe from Author Wendy Higgins, the awesome author of one of my all time fave urban paranormal fantasy series the Sweet Evil Trilogy!
It’s a coming of age urban Teen/YA fantasy set in Shehan, Maine USA following just out of high schooler Letty who all her life thinks she’s human but finds out rather abruptly that she is the last siren on earth as well as a magic wielding nix and that she has to help capture a deadly kelpie or else!
Along the way she meets magical friends, enemies, allies, several someones with sexy Scottish accents and a broody enigmatic powerful stranger.
It's a fun first foray into a new fae, magical creature, druid, nix, shifter universe with lots of potential for some serious MORE to come – Looking forward to the next instalment
Spoilers ahead
Rise Of The Melody is here – the start of the new Siren of Shehan universe from Author Wendy Higgins, the awesome author of one of my all time fave urban paranormal fantasy series the Sweet Evil Trilogy!
It’s a coming of age urban Teen/YA fantasy set in Shehan, Maine USA following just out of high schooler Letty who all her life thinks she’s human but finds out rather abruptly that she is the last siren on earth as well as a magic wielding nix and that she has to help capture a deadly kelpie or else!
Along the way she meets magical friends, enemies, allies, several someones with sexy Scottish accents and a broody enigmatic powerful stranger.
It's a fun first foray into a new fae, magical creature, druid, nix, shifter universe with lots of potential for some serious MORE to come – Looking forward to the next instalment
Spoilers ahead
~ Deanaera Writes...
March 14, 2024
In “Rise of the Melody” by Wendy Higgins, readers are transported to a captivating fantasy world filled with mystery and intrigue. The story follows Colette, also known as Letty, a strong-willed protagonist on a quest to unravel the truth behind her parents’ disappearance and uncover her own identity.
Higgins skilfully crafts a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, balancing suspense with character development. Despite receiving an early copy, the quality of the writing remains consistent, showcasing Higgins’ talent for storytelling.
While the lack of a prominent romance subplot may disappoint some readers, the potential for a forbidden romance adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, leaving readers eagerly anticipating future developments.
One of the standout elements of the book is its diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique magical abilities. Characters like Zar bring depth and complexity to the story, enriching the overall reading experience.
Overall, “Rise of the Melody” is a compelling fantasy novel that sets the stage for an epic series. With its well-crafted world-building, engaging plot, and memorable characters, it’s sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. Fans of fantasy fiction won’t want to miss this exhilarating adventure.
Thank you to Wendy and BOMM for the arc!
Higgins skilfully crafts a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, balancing suspense with character development. Despite receiving an early copy, the quality of the writing remains consistent, showcasing Higgins’ talent for storytelling.
While the lack of a prominent romance subplot may disappoint some readers, the potential for a forbidden romance adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, leaving readers eagerly anticipating future developments.
One of the standout elements of the book is its diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique magical abilities. Characters like Zar bring depth and complexity to the story, enriching the overall reading experience.
Overall, “Rise of the Melody” is a compelling fantasy novel that sets the stage for an epic series. With its well-crafted world-building, engaging plot, and memorable characters, it’s sure to captivate readers from beginning to end. Fans of fantasy fiction won’t want to miss this exhilarating adventure.
Thank you to Wendy and BOMM for the arc!
March 23, 2024
This is book 1 of the Siren of Shehan Series. This is a YA Paranormal Romance.
I absolutely need to start off by saying how excited I was to receive this ARC. I LOVED the Sweet Evil series as well as the See Me stand alone book. I was so excited to see that Wendy was releasing a new book!
I loved this book, I can’t wait to find out what happens next either. I was completely engrossed in Letty’s story! CooShee is the best sidekick/protector and I hope he chooses to never leave Letty’s side! I also enjoyed seeing Letty make new friends and just embrace who they are and how they showed up for Letty. No matter what happened made my heart melt, everyone needs friends like that!
Letty is a 17 year old who grew up with her aunt in New York City. An aspiring singer, but all her hard work and plans go up in smoke when the mayor of the long-forgotten island she was born on, shows up demanding she return and help them defeat a Kelpie, a water horse of Irish folklore. Letty hasn’t been to Ben Shehan island since the day she left, the day her parents mysteriously vanished. Now returning and discovering the truth, she learns that she’s a Siren and that she can entrance people with voice. She also learns that Sirens were killed off for being too dangerous and that she has to keep what she is a secret from everyone.
I absolutely need to start off by saying how excited I was to receive this ARC. I LOVED the Sweet Evil series as well as the See Me stand alone book. I was so excited to see that Wendy was releasing a new book!
I loved this book, I can’t wait to find out what happens next either. I was completely engrossed in Letty’s story! CooShee is the best sidekick/protector and I hope he chooses to never leave Letty’s side! I also enjoyed seeing Letty make new friends and just embrace who they are and how they showed up for Letty. No matter what happened made my heart melt, everyone needs friends like that!
Letty is a 17 year old who grew up with her aunt in New York City. An aspiring singer, but all her hard work and plans go up in smoke when the mayor of the long-forgotten island she was born on, shows up demanding she return and help them defeat a Kelpie, a water horse of Irish folklore. Letty hasn’t been to Ben Shehan island since the day she left, the day her parents mysteriously vanished. Now returning and discovering the truth, she learns that she’s a Siren and that she can entrance people with voice. She also learns that Sirens were killed off for being too dangerous and that she has to keep what she is a secret from everyone.
March 14, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So let’s get into why I loved it…
Letty’s parents died in a mysterious accident when she was little, and has lived with her eccentric aunty ever since. Letty adores singing but her auntynis trying to deter her from following this as a life path. Suddenly, she finds out she is from a town full of mythical and magical beings and is flung into that world once more. Also? Her voice is deadly.
There was intrigue, secrets unravelling constantly, TWO romantic interests, magic, jeopardy and so much more. The action? Brilliant. The character friendships that formed? Beautiful to watch. The family history? I need MORE! Honestly this book just dragged me into its pages and wouldn’t let me go. Luckily, this book is the first in a series because that cliffhanger is severe and I need to know what happens next!
If you love an urban fantasy with a super strong (but doesn’t know it) female protagonist and layers of unravelling secrecy, this one is for you. Add it to your TBR immediately!
So let’s get into why I loved it…
Letty’s parents died in a mysterious accident when she was little, and has lived with her eccentric aunty ever since. Letty adores singing but her auntynis trying to deter her from following this as a life path. Suddenly, she finds out she is from a town full of mythical and magical beings and is flung into that world once more. Also? Her voice is deadly.
There was intrigue, secrets unravelling constantly, TWO romantic interests, magic, jeopardy and so much more. The action? Brilliant. The character friendships that formed? Beautiful to watch. The family history? I need MORE! Honestly this book just dragged me into its pages and wouldn’t let me go. Luckily, this book is the first in a series because that cliffhanger is severe and I need to know what happens next!
If you love an urban fantasy with a super strong (but doesn’t know it) female protagonist and layers of unravelling secrecy, this one is for you. Add it to your TBR immediately!
March 16, 2024
I am so happy that i had the opportunity to read Rise of the Melody. I didn't know what to expect it, i don't think i read a book with so many mythological creature, especially from the Celtic mythology. It reminds me a bit of Teen Wolf. But it was an adventure! I loved the main character, her personality that she didn't give up easily and she wasn't those MC who exercise their powers in 2 days and they are the best. You can see she tries her powers every day and i can't wait to find more about what she can does.
I love the author writing style, that is more realistic then whimsical. Also that everything happens on Earth and not in a fairytale realm, even if we will find a different magical place, but it makes the story more personal like you can go outside and find that your neighbours are druids. All in all, Rise of the Melody is an amazing story with interesting characters and i can't wait what the author prepare for us in the future.
Thank you @wendyhigginswrites and @bookofmatchesmedia for my eArc of Rise of the Melody.
I love the author writing style, that is more realistic then whimsical. Also that everything happens on Earth and not in a fairytale realm, even if we will find a different magical place, but it makes the story more personal like you can go outside and find that your neighbours are druids. All in all, Rise of the Melody is an amazing story with interesting characters and i can't wait what the author prepare for us in the future.
Thank you @wendyhigginswrites and @bookofmatchesmedia for my eArc of Rise of the Melody.
March 22, 2024
Letty is just a normal girl about to graduate high school who wants to be a singer. She's very gifted but lately people are acting differently around her.
This was a coming of age story but just as she's becoming an adult she comes into powers she wasn't aware of and brought back to her parents home town which is full of other paranormal people.
But she has a gift that the others are scared of and has a stigma because of the town's past and history of the fae. Even with all that she found a group of friends that made her feel welcome.
I really enjoyed Letty and her internal struggles with all these attractive but dangerous guys she kept meeting, hormones are high but she is not easily swayed. Zero spice dont worry but lots of horndogs I'm looking at you Chrys.
Though I'm not trusting this mayor, or the dark stranger, or the dog, or the ancient curse maker. Maybe the dog but not the bird too much.🦅
Excited to go back to Shehan! Cause there's no way you can leave it like that😂
This was a coming of age story but just as she's becoming an adult she comes into powers she wasn't aware of and brought back to her parents home town which is full of other paranormal people.
But she has a gift that the others are scared of and has a stigma because of the town's past and history of the fae. Even with all that she found a group of friends that made her feel welcome.
I really enjoyed Letty and her internal struggles with all these attractive but dangerous guys she kept meeting, hormones are high but she is not easily swayed. Zero spice dont worry but lots of horndogs I'm looking at you Chrys.
Though I'm not trusting this mayor, or the dark stranger, or the dog, or the ancient curse maker. Maybe the dog but not the bird too much.🦅
Excited to go back to Shehan! Cause there's no way you can leave it like that😂
March 9, 2024
I was utterly mesmerized by this spellbinding blend of modern fantasy and ancient Celtic lore. Letty MacIntyre's journey from a Brooklyn teen with dreams of a singing career to discovering she's the last siren, destined to combat a malevolent kelpie, hooked me. The mystical island of Shehan shrouded in fog and secrets, provided the perfect backdrop for this thrilling adventure. Letty's struggle to embrace her unique powers amidst a realm of druids and witches was compelling. The tension between her and the mysterious druid boy added a tantalizing layer of romance and danger. Wendy Higgins has crafted an addictive narrative that bridges young adult and adult fiction, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next installment.
March 18, 2024
[4.5]
This one took me back to my teenage years, when I always wished I’d find a YA book like this on the library shelf, with diverse characters represented like a normal occurrence.
Rise of the Melody was a really fun YA fantasy read full of magical creatures and adventure! But there are also tones of feminine rage, of women being controlled and persecuted by men when they don’t conform. I had so many choice words for the mayor 🤬.
The strong female friendships made me so happy! The boys need to get their act together though. Except for a certain mysterious broody stalker 👀. Him, my heart aches for 😭. We’ve barely scratched the surface of the horrors he’s endured. He needs kindness and that’s precisely what Letty shows him (when they’re not being snarky to each other 😂). That pancake scene ❤️🩹. The romance has soo much potential, and I cannot wait to watch it bloom in the next book! Did I mention the most adorable and fiercely loyal animal companion in the form of a dog?! CooShee will steal your heart.
The cozy, small island town vibes with cute cafes and lush coastal landscape were so alluring. The Gaelic folklore enchanted me, and the mythological world expands as we dive deeper into the plot. Those that have read See Me will appreciate the Easter eggs as I did!! It’s a shared world!
eARC provided for honest review. Thoughts are my own.
This one took me back to my teenage years, when I always wished I’d find a YA book like this on the library shelf, with diverse characters represented like a normal occurrence.
Rise of the Melody was a really fun YA fantasy read full of magical creatures and adventure! But there are also tones of feminine rage, of women being controlled and persecuted by men when they don’t conform. I had so many choice words for the mayor 🤬.
The strong female friendships made me so happy! The boys need to get their act together though. Except for a certain mysterious broody stalker 👀. Him, my heart aches for 😭. We’ve barely scratched the surface of the horrors he’s endured. He needs kindness and that’s precisely what Letty shows him (when they’re not being snarky to each other 😂). That pancake scene ❤️🩹. The romance has soo much potential, and I cannot wait to watch it bloom in the next book! Did I mention the most adorable and fiercely loyal animal companion in the form of a dog?! CooShee will steal your heart.
The cozy, small island town vibes with cute cafes and lush coastal landscape were so alluring. The Gaelic folklore enchanted me, and the mythological world expands as we dive deeper into the plot. Those that have read See Me will appreciate the Easter eggs as I did!! It’s a shared world!
eARC provided for honest review. Thoughts are my own.
March 16, 2024
Rise of the Melody by Wendy Higgins. I was lucky enough to ARC read this for Wendy and was very honoured, I adore her books they're all so amazing. I’ve been very excited to get my hands on this read and wow just wow this book is stunning.
I love anything to do with mythical monsters, folklore, and a story by the sea. This had beautiful settings and the characters were written so well, you fell in love with them. Well most of them. Yes we do have our villains but are they?. I haven't quite worked that out, and what I love about this book is that it keeps you guessing. I do love a mystery. Colette was a fab character being the last siren who is trying to find an answer to her missing parents. Who disappeared on this strange island. Which she finds out, that it means a lot more to her then she was let on. This book is full of all creatures, kelpies, witches, wolves and so much more. This read is full of secrets that just keep unravelling. Adventure on the foggy Shenan island where a killer kelpie is taking people, and Colette has a chance to prove herself that she isn't just any siren with a deadly voice that everyone is afraid of.
I devoured this read, it was just so addictive. I love any paranormal book. This was totally up my street, I loved everything about it. It’s a great escape of the world and takes you somewhere extraordinary. We do have a bit of romance mixed in to the perfectly pace plotted book, which made it even more stunning and beautiful. Wendy, you did such an amazing job with this book, I cannot wait for the next book. Cause that ending, just really makes you want so much more.
I love anything to do with mythical monsters, folklore, and a story by the sea. This had beautiful settings and the characters were written so well, you fell in love with them. Well most of them. Yes we do have our villains but are they?. I haven't quite worked that out, and what I love about this book is that it keeps you guessing. I do love a mystery. Colette was a fab character being the last siren who is trying to find an answer to her missing parents. Who disappeared on this strange island. Which she finds out, that it means a lot more to her then she was let on. This book is full of all creatures, kelpies, witches, wolves and so much more. This read is full of secrets that just keep unravelling. Adventure on the foggy Shenan island where a killer kelpie is taking people, and Colette has a chance to prove herself that she isn't just any siren with a deadly voice that everyone is afraid of.
I devoured this read, it was just so addictive. I love any paranormal book. This was totally up my street, I loved everything about it. It’s a great escape of the world and takes you somewhere extraordinary. We do have a bit of romance mixed in to the perfectly pace plotted book, which made it even more stunning and beautiful. Wendy, you did such an amazing job with this book, I cannot wait for the next book. Cause that ending, just really makes you want so much more.
March 8, 2024
*magic powers + Celtic lore + mythical creatures + hot teens + great writing*
Loved it! I don't know how I'm going to manage to wait to read the following books. This sorta reminded me of LJ Smith's The Secret Circle books, just the setting/friendships parts, not the plotline. I did notice it had a lot of modern teenage slang/expressions, so it will probably feel relevant to the target audience.
Loved it! I don't know how I'm going to manage to wait to read the following books. This sorta reminded me of LJ Smith's The Secret Circle books, just the setting/friendships parts, not the plotline. I did notice it had a lot of modern teenage slang/expressions, so it will probably feel relevant to the target audience.
June 2, 2024
This is the third book in a row that I've read that posits Faerie as being on an island off the coast of Maine. I just wonder why none of us locals seem to know that. Back to the book - I did not like any of the main (no pun intended) characters. The only reason it did not get 1 star was because I really liked Coo Shee. There is supposed to be a sequel but I will give it a pass.
August 15, 2024
This is the third book in a row that I've read that posits Faerie as being on an island off the coast of Maine. I just wonder why none of us locals seem to know that. Back to the book - I did not like any of the main (no pun intended) characters. The only reason it did not get 1 star was because I really liked Coo Shee. There is supposed to be a sequel but I will give it a pass.
May 27, 2025
more like 3.5. missing the chemistry wh has soo good in the other books. falls victim to the many ya books where plot is excellent but a little slow in middle and the main male lead is in the book for like 10 scattered pages. feels like a long prologue and now at the last few lines we're about to get really interesting
March 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this one. I was hesitant at the start because I don’t read a lot of YA anymore but once I got into the story I was really intrigued to keep going with it. A lot of interesting mythology and I found it hard to put down. This was a good beginning to the (hopefully) series.
March 13, 2024
This book had so many good story elements and yes, my favorite character is Letty. I loved how the plot thickened and I learned more about the characters. I highly recommend this book because of the characters and the settings and the mythology elements.
March 13, 2024
I have missed Wendy's brilliant mind when it comes to all things mystical and other-wordly. Her writing makes the reader feel like they actually know the characters, and you really invest in their relationships and outcomes. Can't wait for the next in the series!
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February 5, 2024Review and rating to come
April 5, 2024
So good to have a Wendy Higgins book back in my hands. Love the story and can't wait for the next installment.
September 9, 2024
I loved the imagery and location setting. Letty is a great strong female character that you fall in love with. I can"t wait for the sequel!
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