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Gendarmerie Magique #1
Swordplay
Despite her obvious lack of magical talent, nineteen year old Moira Bellamie apprentices with the Gendarmerie Magique, the magic police. She puts all her effort into solving a burglary at the National Museum where antique weapons have been stolen, to keep the hard won job. Falling for her partner Druidus wasn't part of the plan. When more and more people are murdered with one of the stolen weapons, Moira must tame uncontrollable magic, or the people she cares for will die, her partner first and foremost.
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
298 pages, Paperback
First published January 26, 2014
2 people are currently reading
593 people want to read
About the author
Katharina Gerlach
111 books85 followersKatharina Gerlach was born in Germany in 1968. She and her three younger brothers grew up in the middle of a forest in the heart of the Luneburgian Heather. After romping through the forest with imagination as her guide, the tomboy learned to read and disappeared into magical adventures, past times or eerie fairytale woods.
She didn’t stop at reading. During her training as a landscape gardener, she wrote her first novel, a manuscript full of a beginner’s mistakes. Fortunately, she found books on Creative Writing and soon her stories improved. For a while, reality interfered with her writing but after finishing a degree in forestry and a PhD in Science she returned to her vocation. She likes to write Fantasy, Science Fiction and Historical Novels for all age groups.
At present, she is writing at her next project in a small house near Hildesheim, Germany, where she lives with her husband, three children and a dog.
She didn’t stop at reading. During her training as a landscape gardener, she wrote her first novel, a manuscript full of a beginner’s mistakes. Fortunately, she found books on Creative Writing and soon her stories improved. For a while, reality interfered with her writing but after finishing a degree in forestry and a PhD in Science she returned to her vocation. She likes to write Fantasy, Science Fiction and Historical Novels for all age groups.
At present, she is writing at her next project in a small house near Hildesheim, Germany, where she lives with her husband, three children and a dog.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 9, 2014
Living in a world full of magic and when you don't have magical powers that terribly sucks!! Swordplay by Katharina Gerlach is about a girl, having less or no magical powers, is determined to be a Gendamerie Magique(a forensic crime scene investigator).
Thanks to the author, Katharina Gerlach, for providing me with a copy of her book, in exchange for an honest review.
Moira lives in a magical world where magic are the law, the norm. But unfortunately she has very little ability to perform magic and still wants to pursue her aim to be a Gendamerie Magique. Surprisingly, she becomes one and the latest case, which is stealing of valuable weapons from a museum and series of murders caused by those weapons, in which she starts investigating; she figures out that she is linked to the case. And hence the drama begins which will blow you out!
The flow of writing was smooth and hats off to the author for creating a whole new world using her best possible imagination, for instance, she has mentioned, a creature called Nerls, which are thumb-sized, making the lives of humans easier, by being a lift-man to making coffee, and in return they are paid with the energy from the humans they work for. Sounds way too interesting!! Yes, there was also a little bit of sweet, innocent romance between Moira and Druidus, which will keep you engaged more. The plot was nicely developed and the progression of the story is also perfect with all those twists at the right moments is what makes the book more compelling.
So it’s a fantasy young-adult novel and if you like to know more about this magical world, do read this book.
Thanks to the author, Katharina Gerlach, for providing me with a copy of her book, in exchange for an honest review.
Moira lives in a magical world where magic are the law, the norm. But unfortunately she has very little ability to perform magic and still wants to pursue her aim to be a Gendamerie Magique. Surprisingly, she becomes one and the latest case, which is stealing of valuable weapons from a museum and series of murders caused by those weapons, in which she starts investigating; she figures out that she is linked to the case. And hence the drama begins which will blow you out!
The flow of writing was smooth and hats off to the author for creating a whole new world using her best possible imagination, for instance, she has mentioned, a creature called Nerls, which are thumb-sized, making the lives of humans easier, by being a lift-man to making coffee, and in return they are paid with the energy from the humans they work for. Sounds way too interesting!! Yes, there was also a little bit of sweet, innocent romance between Moira and Druidus, which will keep you engaged more. The plot was nicely developed and the progression of the story is also perfect with all those twists at the right moments is what makes the book more compelling.
So it’s a fantasy young-adult novel and if you like to know more about this magical world, do read this book.
April 25, 2014
Imagine living in a world where magic is the norm and some element or another that would run on electricity in today’s society is either powered by a fantastical creature or a spell. What would it be like to be considered handicapped in this world, so like our own it could simply be a different dimension – Moira knows. She has little to no ability to harness or use magic like the rest of society and coming into contact with a simple spell does nothing but spell trouble. But she is determined to follow her dream of becoming a Gendarmerie Magique (a forensic crime scene analyst) whether she has magical ability or not. When Moira finds herself connected to her latest case in ways she never wants to remember, life and death hang in the balance and the innocent are guilty until proven innocent.
Gerlach’s basic concept of how modern life could be paralleled in a world rich with magic and various creatures of a fantastic nature is a delightfully refreshing view of modern fantasy. Most especially innovative is her development of the nurl – a goblin-like creature who ranges in size from nanite to toddler (depending on their wealth of magical energy). These guys operate everything from building elevators, to coffee makers and answering machines to archivists for museums. Gerlach remains steadfast in her world building introducing new concepts in an easy to read and comprehend way.
I have not read many language-oriented books where a known earth language, like French, is seamlessly woven into the storyline. The narrator feels like a French woman with an excellent grasp of the English language. There are times when she changes or drops an article in the language that immediately brings me back to my early experiences relating to francophone-Canadians – and she is consistent but not excessive with this realistic trait.
The case Moira and her team is investigating builds gradually until you feel as though you must devour one page after another to help piece together the clues. What felt at first like a light-hearted romp in an alternate universe turns into a nail-biting mystery you must see through to the end.
Where Gerlach’s storyline falters is during the romantic element. She overstates Moira’s present tendencies as being directly related to ‘daddy-issues’ in her past and falls into melodrama when the main love interests are crazy about each other. It feels formulaic at best and it’s not always that good. Luckily, this element does not drive the plot but is secondary in nature and does not overshadow the other, wonderful, nuances this piece has to offer.
Review by M.J. Moores, OCT. Author. Editor. Freelance Writer.
Gerlach’s basic concept of how modern life could be paralleled in a world rich with magic and various creatures of a fantastic nature is a delightfully refreshing view of modern fantasy. Most especially innovative is her development of the nurl – a goblin-like creature who ranges in size from nanite to toddler (depending on their wealth of magical energy). These guys operate everything from building elevators, to coffee makers and answering machines to archivists for museums. Gerlach remains steadfast in her world building introducing new concepts in an easy to read and comprehend way.
I have not read many language-oriented books where a known earth language, like French, is seamlessly woven into the storyline. The narrator feels like a French woman with an excellent grasp of the English language. There are times when she changes or drops an article in the language that immediately brings me back to my early experiences relating to francophone-Canadians – and she is consistent but not excessive with this realistic trait.
The case Moira and her team is investigating builds gradually until you feel as though you must devour one page after another to help piece together the clues. What felt at first like a light-hearted romp in an alternate universe turns into a nail-biting mystery you must see through to the end.
Where Gerlach’s storyline falters is during the romantic element. She overstates Moira’s present tendencies as being directly related to ‘daddy-issues’ in her past and falls into melodrama when the main love interests are crazy about each other. It feels formulaic at best and it’s not always that good. Luckily, this element does not drive the plot but is secondary in nature and does not overshadow the other, wonderful, nuances this piece has to offer.
Review by M.J. Moores, OCT. Author. Editor. Freelance Writer.
July 13, 2014
Moira Bellamie ist es gelungen, als Anwärterin bei der Gendarmerie Magique, der magischen Polizei, angenommen zu werden, obwohl sie nachweislich kaum Magie besitzt. Ihr großer Traum ist es, eine dauerhafte Anstellung zu erhalten. Dafür steckt sie auch all ihre Energie in die Aufklärung eines Einbruchs in das Nationalmuseum, bei dem wertvolle Waffen gestohlen wurden. Moira hat nicht damit gerechnet, dass ihr dabei die Liebe begegnet – und noch weniger damit, dass sie unkontrollierbare Magie zähmen muss, um die Menschen die sie liebt zu beschützen.
Das Buch hat mich bereits auf den ersten Seiten gefesselt, weil mir die Stimmung gefiel und ich einfach wissen wollte, wie es mit Moira weitergeht. Ich hatte gleich einen guten Zugang zu ihr und habe mich gefreut, sie und ihr Umfeld im Verlauf der Geschichte so gut kennenzulernen. Überhaupt waren mir viele Figuren sehr nah – sicherlich auch, weil die Autorin es versteht, Gefühle so zu beschreiben, dass sie direkt bei mir ankommen.
Ich mag die ruhige Erzählweise, bei der viel Platz für Details bleibt. Dass es auch ohne ständige Action spannend ist, weil der Fall, die Figuren und die Hintergründe fesseln. Mir gefallen die verschiedenen Arten der Magie und der Aufbau dieser Welt. Neben den Menschen gibt es noch Vampire, Elfen und Werwölfe, aber auch Nerls, die ihre Dienste beispielsweise als Diktiergerät, Wecker oder Anrufbeantworter anbieten und dafür mit einer von den Menschen nicht benötigten Form der Magie bezahlt werden.
Der Fall beginnt mit einem Diebstahl, wird dann aber immer komplexer und rätselhafter. Verschwundene Personen, Morde – wie hängt das alles zusammen? Dazu kommt noch der historisch anmutende Hintergrund der Waffen, welcher mich sehr fasziniert hat. Die Krimi-Ebene verbindet sich mit Magie und Zwischenmenschlichem zu einer für mich abwechslungsreichen und mitreißenden Mischung.
Der phantastische Krimi “Waffenruhe” ist der erste Teil der Serie “Gendarmerie Magique” und hat mich voll überzeugt – ich hoffe also sehr darauf, dass es weitere Bände geben wird. :) Eine ruhig erzählte und doch spannende Geschichte, die ohne allzu viel Blut auskommt, dafür aber mit tollen Ideen und einigen Überraschungen punkten kann. Eine emotionale Lektüre, bei der ich einige Figuren – und nicht zu vergessen die Nerls – in mein Herz geschlossen habe und viele Eindrücke mitnehme. Gut, ein paar Tränchen habe ich auch vergossen – aber das zeigt ja nur, wie sehr mich die Geschichte erwischt hat und dass ich einfach eine emotionale Leserin bin …
Das Buch hat mich bereits auf den ersten Seiten gefesselt, weil mir die Stimmung gefiel und ich einfach wissen wollte, wie es mit Moira weitergeht. Ich hatte gleich einen guten Zugang zu ihr und habe mich gefreut, sie und ihr Umfeld im Verlauf der Geschichte so gut kennenzulernen. Überhaupt waren mir viele Figuren sehr nah – sicherlich auch, weil die Autorin es versteht, Gefühle so zu beschreiben, dass sie direkt bei mir ankommen.
Ich mag die ruhige Erzählweise, bei der viel Platz für Details bleibt. Dass es auch ohne ständige Action spannend ist, weil der Fall, die Figuren und die Hintergründe fesseln. Mir gefallen die verschiedenen Arten der Magie und der Aufbau dieser Welt. Neben den Menschen gibt es noch Vampire, Elfen und Werwölfe, aber auch Nerls, die ihre Dienste beispielsweise als Diktiergerät, Wecker oder Anrufbeantworter anbieten und dafür mit einer von den Menschen nicht benötigten Form der Magie bezahlt werden.
Der Fall beginnt mit einem Diebstahl, wird dann aber immer komplexer und rätselhafter. Verschwundene Personen, Morde – wie hängt das alles zusammen? Dazu kommt noch der historisch anmutende Hintergrund der Waffen, welcher mich sehr fasziniert hat. Die Krimi-Ebene verbindet sich mit Magie und Zwischenmenschlichem zu einer für mich abwechslungsreichen und mitreißenden Mischung.
Der phantastische Krimi “Waffenruhe” ist der erste Teil der Serie “Gendarmerie Magique” und hat mich voll überzeugt – ich hoffe also sehr darauf, dass es weitere Bände geben wird. :) Eine ruhig erzählte und doch spannende Geschichte, die ohne allzu viel Blut auskommt, dafür aber mit tollen Ideen und einigen Überraschungen punkten kann. Eine emotionale Lektüre, bei der ich einige Figuren – und nicht zu vergessen die Nerls – in mein Herz geschlossen habe und viele Eindrücke mitnehme. Gut, ein paar Tränchen habe ich auch vergossen – aber das zeigt ja nur, wie sehr mich die Geschichte erwischt hat und dass ich einfach eine emotionale Leserin bin …
February 28, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This fun murder mystery with a magic twist, was really fun for me to read. I am a huge fan of many of the crime dramas on T.V and have even enjoyed a few books of murder mystery genre, and to add magic into that mix was really fun and I do believe the author did a great job of mixing the two. I must admit I was drawn to the book because the title deceived me a little, I thought there would be sword fighting until I read the summary and I was pulled in for a whole other reason, and by the way the title makes perfect sense to me now.
This world was very different and it took me a bit to get used to some of the language, but once I did I thought a lot of the ideas were cool and new. My one big issue with this book was the main character, Moira, I felt like I never really connected with her, I liked her and she was smart and resourceful but her relationship issues that obviously steamed from her Daddy issues, kinda threw me off a bit, now overall she was cool but I couldn't get past that and that is my personal opinion.
The mystery and the layers this story involved were laid out really well and I love when I am surprised and this one did just that. I found myself engrossed in the mystery of it all, and as it came down to the wire and things got much more intense both in the case and with Moira's magic I was entertained to the very end. I love the idea of CSI with a magic twist and I can't wait to read more.
This fun murder mystery with a magic twist, was really fun for me to read. I am a huge fan of many of the crime dramas on T.V and have even enjoyed a few books of murder mystery genre, and to add magic into that mix was really fun and I do believe the author did a great job of mixing the two. I must admit I was drawn to the book because the title deceived me a little, I thought there would be sword fighting until I read the summary and I was pulled in for a whole other reason, and by the way the title makes perfect sense to me now.
This world was very different and it took me a bit to get used to some of the language, but once I did I thought a lot of the ideas were cool and new. My one big issue with this book was the main character, Moira, I felt like I never really connected with her, I liked her and she was smart and resourceful but her relationship issues that obviously steamed from her Daddy issues, kinda threw me off a bit, now overall she was cool but I couldn't get past that and that is my personal opinion.
The mystery and the layers this story involved were laid out really well and I love when I am surprised and this one did just that. I found myself engrossed in the mystery of it all, and as it came down to the wire and things got much more intense both in the case and with Moira's magic I was entertained to the very end. I love the idea of CSI with a magic twist and I can't wait to read more.
March 5, 2014
This book is actually more of a mystery and fantasy. I enjoyed the aspect of the magic involved although I find the paced of the story kind of slow especially at the beginning. I probably enjoyed the story more when Druidus entered the picture. But as the story got further I found it very interesting especially how everything was related. I must admit that the person who was the culprit was something I did not see.
I liked Moira's character especially how she matured throughout the whole book. I'm glad she thinks things thoroughly before doing anything that might affect her. Her magic is pretty interesting in itself. When I've read about the legends I thought she was related to the girl but apparently but it did not disappoint me. Her relationship with her father wasn't good but I'm happy for her that they talked things out. I had a feeling there were a lot of miscommunications although I am very disappointed of her mother's decision more than her father's.
The romance in this book is very minimum actually but I find that her relationship with Druidus very sweet. I'm glad that Druidus made the first step because I doubt that she'll say yes to being with him if he too did not mention his fears. His parents are the those typical ones who wants more for their son and apparently bribes the girls he liked off.
The person I hated the most is Druidus' mother. If you've read the book you'll know why. I actually pitied Sabio. I won't mention more because it would be a spoiler.
I received a copy from Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books in exchange for an honest review.
I liked Moira's character especially how she matured throughout the whole book. I'm glad she thinks things thoroughly before doing anything that might affect her. Her magic is pretty interesting in itself. When I've read about the legends I thought she was related to the girl but apparently but it did not disappoint me. Her relationship with her father wasn't good but I'm happy for her that they talked things out. I had a feeling there were a lot of miscommunications although I am very disappointed of her mother's decision more than her father's.
The romance in this book is very minimum actually but I find that her relationship with Druidus very sweet. I'm glad that Druidus made the first step because I doubt that she'll say yes to being with him if he too did not mention his fears. His parents are the those typical ones who wants more for their son and apparently bribes the girls he liked off.
The person I hated the most is Druidus' mother. If you've read the book you'll know why. I actually pitied Sabio. I won't mention more because it would be a spoiler.
I received a copy from Never Too Old For Y.A. & N.A. Books in exchange for an honest review.
March 5, 2014
I got this book from the author, free of cost, in exchange of an honest review from my side.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Well, coming to the characters, I liked them very much. They have personality and are interesting to read about. I liked the plot too but I would have loved a little bit more development of the plot, it felt as if the author didn't harness the full potential of the plot and not to mention there are some editing mistakes too.
The pace was slow but the author managed to keep a hold on my interest. I loved the ending very much though the events that unfolded seemed a little disoriented as if they weren't connected and that nagged me a little.
There is action and adventure no doubt but the thrill was missing and I also missed the feel of reality which made this read a little disappointed.Over all a good read which is worth a shot so I would like you guys to try it, who knows you can fall in love with it.
Firstly I would like to thank the author for giving me this opportunity of reading and reviewing this book.
Well, coming to the characters, I liked them very much. They have personality and are interesting to read about. I liked the plot too but I would have loved a little bit more development of the plot, it felt as if the author didn't harness the full potential of the plot and not to mention there are some editing mistakes too.
The pace was slow but the author managed to keep a hold on my interest. I loved the ending very much though the events that unfolded seemed a little disoriented as if they weren't connected and that nagged me a little.
There is action and adventure no doubt but the thrill was missing and I also missed the feel of reality which made this read a little disappointed.Over all a good read which is worth a shot so I would like you guys to try it, who knows you can fall in love with it.
February 14, 2014
I love CSI and watched most episodes. What I didn't like was all the gore that pracitally bled out of my TV. So when my Muse came up with the idea for this story (it went like: "Hi, Cat, why don't you write your own CSI story? One with magic?"... then I said, "That sounds cool, what did you have in mind"...), I insisted on having a lot less blood. Let me tell you that my Muse found the best way to get rid of the red stuff -- not that I'm squeamish or so, but I wanted my story to be as gore free as a murder mystery can possibly be. So be prepared for a few splashes here and there but all in all, it's tame enough for readers of 14 years or older.
Oh, did I mention it's a Young Adult Fantasy?
BTW, I'm not going to review my own book. But maybe you'd like to?
Oh, did I mention it's a Young Adult Fantasy?
BTW, I'm not going to review my own book. But maybe you'd like to?
July 18, 2014
This is a futuristic mystery. It starts slow, but warms up. Keep reading. It is worth it. Its different and imaginative. Once you learn how the world operates the pace picks up. I will enjoy reading more about this world and characters. It is hard being different, and considered mediocre or not like everyone else or as good in your chosen profession, and this author deals with these issues in a very unique way.
June 12, 2015
Fun story. Like CSI with magic. I enjoyed the world, that is like ours, but there are magical explanations for everything. The story is told in 3rd person limited in past tense.
May 22, 2017
Buchinfos:
Titel: Waffenruhe: Ein Roman der Gendarmerie Magique
Autor: Katharina Gerlach
Seiten: 338
Buchart : TB
Verlag: Independent Bookworm
ISBN-13: 978-3956810114
Erhältlich : 01 / 2014
Alter: ab 14
Kosten : € 9,96
Buchrichtung: Fantasy
Vorgängerbände: -
Folgebände: -
Verfilmung: -
Inhalt:
CSI mit Magie aber ohne Ekelfaktor
Obwohl die neunzehnjährige Moira Bellamie nachweislich keine Magie hat, ist es ihr gelungen, einen Praktikumsplatz bei der Gendarmerie Magique, der magischen Polizei, zu erhalten. Um den hart erkämpften Job zu behalten, steckt sie all ihre Energie in die Aufklärung eines Einbruchs im Nationalmuseum, wo wertvolle, antike Waffen gestohlen wurden. Es war nicht vorgesehen, dass sie sich dabei in ihren Partner Druidus verliebt. Als immer mehr Menschen mit einer der gestohlenen Waffen ermordet werden, muss Moira unkontrollierbare Magie zähmen, oder die Menschen, die sie liebt werden sterben, allen voran ihr Partner.
Meine Meinung:
Was für ein Buch , es war genial :)
Dank an die Autorin für die Geschichte .
Wir lernen im Buch Moira kennen die Unbedingt zur magischen Polizei, nur ihr Problem, ihre Magie verpufft eher oder bringt schaden nicht gerade das was man haben will. Aber sie gibt nicht auf sie will dazugehören und das mit aller macht.Den sie möchte nicht mehr ein Wesen sein das dort in der Welt ohne Magie als eingeschränkt betitelt wird und sogar dafür ein Band tragen kann.
Ein Diebstahl, nicht zusammen passende Sachen und es geht zum ersten Fall in dem Buch....
Das Buch ist toll beschrieben, die Mischung von Magie und Krimi ist mal was anderes. Ohne irgendwelche blutrünstigen Handlungen kommt das Buch aus.
Was mir sehr gefallen hat ist die Liebe zu den Charakteren , die Autorin hat sie echt Lebendig gemacht und so hatte an seinen Spaß das Buch zu lesen.
Ab und an ging es mir dann zu sehr ins Detail, aber das machte den Rest wieder wett.
Ihr wollt mal Magie mit Krimi ? Und das auf eine Ebene ? Dann ist das Buch perfekt für Euch ;)
Was mir sehr gefällt das das Buch eine angenehme Schriftgröße hat , für mich immer ein Pluspunkt.
Pluspunkt:
- Liebevoll beschriebene Charaktere
- Moira muss an einfach mögen
Minuspunkt:
- Ging öfters zu ins Detail
Cover:
- Ich finde es toll, man muss es einfach anschauen
Titel: Waffenruhe: Ein Roman der Gendarmerie Magique
Autor: Katharina Gerlach
Seiten: 338
Buchart : TB
Verlag: Independent Bookworm
ISBN-13: 978-3956810114
Erhältlich : 01 / 2014
Alter: ab 14
Kosten : € 9,96
Buchrichtung: Fantasy
Vorgängerbände: -
Folgebände: -
Verfilmung: -
Inhalt:
CSI mit Magie aber ohne Ekelfaktor
Obwohl die neunzehnjährige Moira Bellamie nachweislich keine Magie hat, ist es ihr gelungen, einen Praktikumsplatz bei der Gendarmerie Magique, der magischen Polizei, zu erhalten. Um den hart erkämpften Job zu behalten, steckt sie all ihre Energie in die Aufklärung eines Einbruchs im Nationalmuseum, wo wertvolle, antike Waffen gestohlen wurden. Es war nicht vorgesehen, dass sie sich dabei in ihren Partner Druidus verliebt. Als immer mehr Menschen mit einer der gestohlenen Waffen ermordet werden, muss Moira unkontrollierbare Magie zähmen, oder die Menschen, die sie liebt werden sterben, allen voran ihr Partner.
Meine Meinung:
Was für ein Buch , es war genial :)
Dank an die Autorin für die Geschichte .
Wir lernen im Buch Moira kennen die Unbedingt zur magischen Polizei, nur ihr Problem, ihre Magie verpufft eher oder bringt schaden nicht gerade das was man haben will. Aber sie gibt nicht auf sie will dazugehören und das mit aller macht.Den sie möchte nicht mehr ein Wesen sein das dort in der Welt ohne Magie als eingeschränkt betitelt wird und sogar dafür ein Band tragen kann.
Ein Diebstahl, nicht zusammen passende Sachen und es geht zum ersten Fall in dem Buch....
Das Buch ist toll beschrieben, die Mischung von Magie und Krimi ist mal was anderes. Ohne irgendwelche blutrünstigen Handlungen kommt das Buch aus.
Was mir sehr gefallen hat ist die Liebe zu den Charakteren , die Autorin hat sie echt Lebendig gemacht und so hatte an seinen Spaß das Buch zu lesen.
Ab und an ging es mir dann zu sehr ins Detail, aber das machte den Rest wieder wett.
Ihr wollt mal Magie mit Krimi ? Und das auf eine Ebene ? Dann ist das Buch perfekt für Euch ;)
Was mir sehr gefällt das das Buch eine angenehme Schriftgröße hat , für mich immer ein Pluspunkt.
Pluspunkt:
- Liebevoll beschriebene Charaktere
- Moira muss an einfach mögen
Minuspunkt:
- Ging öfters zu ins Detail
Cover:
- Ich finde es toll, man muss es einfach anschauen
March 10, 2024
Loved the concept and the storyline, however the writing is a bit clunky.
August 21, 2014
More reviews on my blog, Exploring Pages.
Thanks to Katharina Gerlach for providing me with a copy of this book!
Do you know that feeling, when you receive a book in the mail and have good expectations about it because you read an awesome synopsis? Maybe you didn't, but I certainly did. It sounded so awesome, something like I've never read before. Fantasy combined with a typical murder-mystery. Turns out, Swordplay does not even come close to being a fantasy, and even less to YA.
From characters to the actual plot, I didn't find anything that could hold my interest. There was depth missing in every character, and talking about them: sometimes it felt like some were just thrown in there for no particular reason. It made everything even more confusing. Just like the characters, several storylines seemed to be thrown in and didn't connect in any way, leaving me unsatisfied with the end. Nothing came across as realistic. At times I had to remind myself that Moira was actually nineteen, and that Druidus wasn't a five-year-old. This leads me to the romance, and it isn't something I'd ship. It feels way too forced, and Swordplay could have been a way better novel, if it hadn't been for the unbelievability of everything.
The writing style is in my opinion the best thing out of the entire book, only there has to be another issue. While reading, I constantly asked myself why in the world was this written in the third-person view, when some of her thoughts were written in first-person in Italic? This didn't make any sense, especially when her other thoughts were just in third-view again.
The pace usually does wonders to book, if there was a pace to be found. In the end, I had to put all of my effort in finishing this book. Despite its short length, Swordplay definitely wasn't a book I enjoyed, and I'm really sad to have written such a negative review on a book I thought I'd love.
"Here you've got it black on yellow. I am handicapped. I do not like to be favored, but I will get hired."
Madame de Frees held out her hands defensively. "I will make a copy and add it to my report."
"That's not enough. For all my life, I never wanted anything else but to join the Gendarmerie Magique."
- Katharina Gerlach, Swordplay
Thanks to Katharina Gerlach for providing me with a copy of this book!
Do you know that feeling, when you receive a book in the mail and have good expectations about it because you read an awesome synopsis? Maybe you didn't, but I certainly did. It sounded so awesome, something like I've never read before. Fantasy combined with a typical murder-mystery. Turns out, Swordplay does not even come close to being a fantasy, and even less to YA.
From characters to the actual plot, I didn't find anything that could hold my interest. There was depth missing in every character, and talking about them: sometimes it felt like some were just thrown in there for no particular reason. It made everything even more confusing. Just like the characters, several storylines seemed to be thrown in and didn't connect in any way, leaving me unsatisfied with the end. Nothing came across as realistic. At times I had to remind myself that Moira was actually nineteen, and that Druidus wasn't a five-year-old. This leads me to the romance, and it isn't something I'd ship. It feels way too forced, and Swordplay could have been a way better novel, if it hadn't been for the unbelievability of everything.
The writing style is in my opinion the best thing out of the entire book, only there has to be another issue. While reading, I constantly asked myself why in the world was this written in the third-person view, when some of her thoughts were written in first-person in Italic? This didn't make any sense, especially when her other thoughts were just in third-view again.
The pace usually does wonders to book, if there was a pace to be found. In the end, I had to put all of my effort in finishing this book. Despite its short length, Swordplay definitely wasn't a book I enjoyed, and I'm really sad to have written such a negative review on a book I thought I'd love.
February 18, 2014
* I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review*
The only reason I give this book two stars is because the premise behind this book sounds awesome. Moira desperately wants to join the Gendarmerie, which is the police force where she is interning. The only problem is Moira seems to have no magical talent. When someone breaks into the museum and steals valuable weapons, Moira is enlisted to help. When those weapons seem to be causing a string of murders, things get even more interesting.
Sounds great right? However, I had to force myself to finish this book.
The characters seemed so unbelievable and outlandish. Druidus barely knows Moira and declares his undying love, even fighting with his parents and storming out. He comes across as very immature and childish. Moira isn't a character you root for either. She seems much younger in this story than her character is supposed to be. The author details so many useless and minute facts it throws off the cadence of the story.
It seemed to me the author threw every stereotype and plot point ever imagined in this novel and none of it seems cohesive. There are daddy issues, love affairs, mystery murders, ancient weaponry with spells, a revenge plot, the "you're not good enough for my son", the list goes on and on! Yet none of these stories seem to make any sense. You figure out what is behind everything very early on and just wish the author would come out with it already. Had the author just picked one or two of these, narrowed down the character list and just developed them out more, this could have been an excellent novel.
The only reason I give this book two stars is because the premise behind this book sounds awesome. Moira desperately wants to join the Gendarmerie, which is the police force where she is interning. The only problem is Moira seems to have no magical talent. When someone breaks into the museum and steals valuable weapons, Moira is enlisted to help. When those weapons seem to be causing a string of murders, things get even more interesting.
Sounds great right? However, I had to force myself to finish this book.
The characters seemed so unbelievable and outlandish. Druidus barely knows Moira and declares his undying love, even fighting with his parents and storming out. He comes across as very immature and childish. Moira isn't a character you root for either. She seems much younger in this story than her character is supposed to be. The author details so many useless and minute facts it throws off the cadence of the story.
It seemed to me the author threw every stereotype and plot point ever imagined in this novel and none of it seems cohesive. There are daddy issues, love affairs, mystery murders, ancient weaponry with spells, a revenge plot, the "you're not good enough for my son", the list goes on and on! Yet none of these stories seem to make any sense. You figure out what is behind everything very early on and just wish the author would come out with it already. Had the author just picked one or two of these, narrowed down the character list and just developed them out more, this could have been an excellent novel.
December 16, 2014
* I was given a copy in exchange for an honest review*
I really enjoyed the last 50 pages of the book because I could finaly start enjoying the story. Since the begining there was this magic and nerls and stuff that I really didnt understant and it wasnt explained and it felt like this should have been like a second or third book in a series and you would have gotten used to the world and to all the stuff and the characters. But in this book we are thrown right in the middle and you're left wondering what is that, what does he mean and stuff like that. And I know there are some of the words explained on the back of the book but I didnt want to turn the pages every time I couldnt understand what that ment. I would have loved the book if things were more explained. Thats why I really liked the last pages. Because I got used to the stuff thats happening and finally understand what they were talking about.
I liked the characters but I didnt love them. I wanted to know them better but all they thought about was solving the case and work and stuff. I didnt like Druidus that much because I didnt get to know him and his releationship with Moira happend so quick. It was too sudden when he told her he loved her and wanted to marry her and stuff like that and it was just too quick and unrealistic.
I liked the plot and the whole thing with Moira having Wild Magic that was interesting.
There was this moment where Moira thought Druidus was cheating on her because she saw him kissing another girl and it was his mother. Like, What? They were kissing, not a peck on the cheek but kissing. ?
All in all, I enjoyed reading this book.
Actual rating 3.5
I really enjoyed the last 50 pages of the book because I could finaly start enjoying the story. Since the begining there was this magic and nerls and stuff that I really didnt understant and it wasnt explained and it felt like this should have been like a second or third book in a series and you would have gotten used to the world and to all the stuff and the characters. But in this book we are thrown right in the middle and you're left wondering what is that, what does he mean and stuff like that. And I know there are some of the words explained on the back of the book but I didnt want to turn the pages every time I couldnt understand what that ment. I would have loved the book if things were more explained. Thats why I really liked the last pages. Because I got used to the stuff thats happening and finally understand what they were talking about.
I liked the characters but I didnt love them. I wanted to know them better but all they thought about was solving the case and work and stuff. I didnt like Druidus that much because I didnt get to know him and his releationship with Moira happend so quick. It was too sudden when he told her he loved her and wanted to marry her and stuff like that and it was just too quick and unrealistic.
I liked the plot and the whole thing with Moira having Wild Magic that was interesting.
There was this moment where Moira thought Druidus was cheating on her because she saw him kissing another girl and it was his mother. Like, What? They were kissing, not a peck on the cheek but kissing. ?
All in all, I enjoyed reading this book.
Actual rating 3.5
August 6, 2016
I really wish I liked this book. I hate o give bad reviews to anything because I know authors and all their helpers spend countless hours and energy into creating these stories but I didn't enjoy this one.
It sounded amazing from the blurb. A little mystery, a little magic, a little crush? What could go wrong? But I found a lot wrong. I'm not going to go bashing this book and give a million reasons but the biggest issue I had was I feel like I was missing the first half of this book. I could never catch up to what was going on. Charactes were just thrown in their as if I knew exactly who they were when really I had no idea who they were or what they did. It was frustrating. Even the magic used and creatures called Nerls were just talked about as if you had every idea what it all was. I was lost which made it hard to read because I just couldn't put everything together to where it all made sense.
More background would've done this book wonders.
It sounded amazing from the blurb. A little mystery, a little magic, a little crush? What could go wrong? But I found a lot wrong. I'm not going to go bashing this book and give a million reasons but the biggest issue I had was I feel like I was missing the first half of this book. I could never catch up to what was going on. Charactes were just thrown in their as if I knew exactly who they were when really I had no idea who they were or what they did. It was frustrating. Even the magic used and creatures called Nerls were just talked about as if you had every idea what it all was. I was lost which made it hard to read because I just couldn't put everything together to where it all made sense.
More background would've done this book wonders.
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