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Moonflower
Natasha remembers little from her Russian childhood, other than the lingering nightmares of her mother's tragic death. So when someone close to her hands her a one-way ticket to Russia, along with the deed to her family farm, and then is brutally murdered, she has little confidence about what awaits her in that distant land. With doubt and uncertainty, Natasha has no choice but to leave her life in America for an unknown future. Once overseas, the terrifying facts as to why she was really summoned home come to light. Fact one: Monsters do exist. Fact two: The only thing keeping those monsters out of the world is an ancient mural hidden below her family's farm. Fact three: The mural that keeps the evil out of the world is falling apart. The final fact: It's up to Natasha to restore it and save the world from a horror unlike anything seen before. Luckily, Natasha isn't alone in her mission. Three Russian Knights are tasked with protecting her from the demons as she restores the mural. And leading the Knights is the handsome and strong Anatoly, who seems to be everything Natasha could hope for in a man. Unfortunately, there is one huge problem. Her Knights are forbidden from having relationships with the artists they protect, and Anatoly is a hardcore rule follower. But rules cannot stop the way she feels. When a horrifying demon breaches the barrier and pulls Anatoly inside the mural, Natasha can't help but charge, once again, into the unknown-this time to save the man she secretly loves. Now on the demons' turf, she risks her own life to free the very one who is supposed to be protecting her. Little does she realize that if she should fail, it could mean the destruction of the very last barrier shielding mankind. Will Anatoly refuse Natasha's help? Or will he finally realize, when love is at stake, the rules will be broken.
238 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 1, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I would like to point out that I started reading this right before bed under the assumption that I would maybe read a chapter and then I could get to sleep.
I was so horribly wrong. I could not put it down. It had been a long time since I was so enthralled while reading a book. As awesome as that was... I ended up only getting a few hours of sleep that night because of it.
The way Natasha was written, it wasn't the typical female lead I tend to read. She was someone who had been through a lot of crap, but she was still a strong person and was the type of heroine that I wish existed in more books.
I enjoyed how the story progressed. It didn't just throw you into it, but gave you time to get to know the characters so you would understand their actions.
This was one of the best books I've read in a long time. My only complaint would be with something towards the end, which I can't say without risking a spoiler getting out.
With all of that being said, I highly recommend this book. It was wonderfully written. I give it 5/5 platypires.
http://www.platypire.com/3/post/2014/...
First of all, I would like to point out that I started reading this right before bed under the assumption that I would maybe read a chapter and then I could get to sleep.
I was so horribly wrong. I could not put it down. It had been a long time since I was so enthralled while reading a book. As awesome as that was... I ended up only getting a few hours of sleep that night because of it.
The way Natasha was written, it wasn't the typical female lead I tend to read. She was someone who had been through a lot of crap, but she was still a strong person and was the type of heroine that I wish existed in more books.
I enjoyed how the story progressed. It didn't just throw you into it, but gave you time to get to know the characters so you would understand their actions.
This was one of the best books I've read in a long time. My only complaint would be with something towards the end, which I can't say without risking a spoiler getting out.
With all of that being said, I highly recommend this book. It was wonderfully written. I give it 5/5 platypires.
http://www.platypire.com/3/post/2014/...
April 17, 2014
This is nothing like any book I have ever read in the paranormal genre. It has a creative and unique spin on how to fight demons and I was captivated from the synopsis but the story and characters are so much more.
Natasha has been plagued with nightmares of her father killing her mother when she was just a child in Russia. Never understanding the reason behind it she has never gotten close to anyone and being is foster care doesn’t help. But all that changes when Chuck comes into her life. He makes her feel loved but her foster mom Bambi is jealous of the relationship and murders him. But Chuck is able to help Natasha before he dies by giving her the deed to her family’s farm in Russia and a plan ticket to go back so she can finally get the answers she has always wanted.
Once there Natasha finds out that demons are real and that there is ancient painting under her family’s farmhouse. She must restore it before any of them escape. But it’s not easy when the demons can mess with her mind as she tries to repair the cracks but lucky for her she has three Russian Knights who are tasked with protecting her while she does this. Anatoly who is the head of the Knights is everything that Natasha wants in a man but there is rules against being with her protectors. But when the head demon pulls Anatoly into the painting all rules go out the window when Natasha goes into the painting to pull out the man she loves. But can she get to him in time before he is killed and get them both back to safety?
I enjoyed getting to know all the characters in this story even when their actions made it hard to like them. Bambi is one of those characters. She is uncaring and selfish and treated Natasha as nothing more than a check. But when she reveals things about her past to Natasha I understood her better, I still didn’t like her but at least I didn’t hate her.
Watching Natasha getting to learn about her past and find her strength was an amazing part of the story for me. I’m not sure if I could have handled everything she went through at seventeen. The way she went into the painting to save Anatoly had me on the edge of my seat. I was so scared for the both of them. I kept hoping she would get to him in time and that they would be able to get free. But I won’t tell you if she did you will have to read the book to find out if they did and if they break the rules for their love. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
Natasha has been plagued with nightmares of her father killing her mother when she was just a child in Russia. Never understanding the reason behind it she has never gotten close to anyone and being is foster care doesn’t help. But all that changes when Chuck comes into her life. He makes her feel loved but her foster mom Bambi is jealous of the relationship and murders him. But Chuck is able to help Natasha before he dies by giving her the deed to her family’s farm in Russia and a plan ticket to go back so she can finally get the answers she has always wanted.
Once there Natasha finds out that demons are real and that there is ancient painting under her family’s farmhouse. She must restore it before any of them escape. But it’s not easy when the demons can mess with her mind as she tries to repair the cracks but lucky for her she has three Russian Knights who are tasked with protecting her while she does this. Anatoly who is the head of the Knights is everything that Natasha wants in a man but there is rules against being with her protectors. But when the head demon pulls Anatoly into the painting all rules go out the window when Natasha goes into the painting to pull out the man she loves. But can she get to him in time before he is killed and get them both back to safety?
I enjoyed getting to know all the characters in this story even when their actions made it hard to like them. Bambi is one of those characters. She is uncaring and selfish and treated Natasha as nothing more than a check. But when she reveals things about her past to Natasha I understood her better, I still didn’t like her but at least I didn’t hate her.
Watching Natasha getting to learn about her past and find her strength was an amazing part of the story for me. I’m not sure if I could have handled everything she went through at seventeen. The way she went into the painting to save Anatoly had me on the edge of my seat. I was so scared for the both of them. I kept hoping she would get to him in time and that they would be able to get free. But I won’t tell you if she did you will have to read the book to find out if they did and if they break the rules for their love. 4/5 Bloody Fangs
April 19, 2014
A Moonflower is metaphorically someone who opens up and thrives at night. I never knew I had a name, but now I know. I'm a moonflower :o)
First reviewed on Tower of Babel http://torretadebabel.blogspot.com
First of all, I was really excited to read a story about a mural that protects humanity from evil pouring into our dimension. An artist who restores its power is the only way to prevent mayhem. Natasha is an orphan looking to unravel her identity and her place in the world. Thanks to Chuck, a gentle biker, she finds both. And by doing so, she discovers that horrors lurk behind a mural and time is running out for her to fight them.
I love the idea. I love the whole concept of art, Russian legends, an orphan and her quest for her roots, and monsters trying to conquer Earth through a painted portal. What I didn't like much is that the plot is slow to develop. The paranormal elements don't show up until the last part of the novel. And that's what I'd been hoping for so it was a bit of a disappointment for me.
Top reasons to read:
moving, relatable main character
beautiful bond of two characters
exciting paranormal plot
art as a means of protection and magic
Anyway, the writing style is very good. There are some very beautiful moments and sentiments along the way. The main character is likeable and moving. I could feel the emotional turmoil she's going through as an orphan and a rejected human being. I really liked the bond that blooms between her and a man who cares for her as no one else has even been willing to do.
The last part covers Natasha's journey to Russia to find out where she comes from and what actually happened to her parents. That's where her artistic talents prove to be the key to a very attractive paranormal plot. More secrets spill out, and a lot of action and some romance ensue. I believe this story has a lot of potential. I really hope to see it fully explored in future installments.
First reviewed on Tower of Babel http://torretadebabel.blogspot.com
First of all, I was really excited to read a story about a mural that protects humanity from evil pouring into our dimension. An artist who restores its power is the only way to prevent mayhem. Natasha is an orphan looking to unravel her identity and her place in the world. Thanks to Chuck, a gentle biker, she finds both. And by doing so, she discovers that horrors lurk behind a mural and time is running out for her to fight them.
I love the idea. I love the whole concept of art, Russian legends, an orphan and her quest for her roots, and monsters trying to conquer Earth through a painted portal. What I didn't like much is that the plot is slow to develop. The paranormal elements don't show up until the last part of the novel. And that's what I'd been hoping for so it was a bit of a disappointment for me.
Top reasons to read:
moving, relatable main character
beautiful bond of two characters
exciting paranormal plot
art as a means of protection and magic
Anyway, the writing style is very good. There are some very beautiful moments and sentiments along the way. The main character is likeable and moving. I could feel the emotional turmoil she's going through as an orphan and a rejected human being. I really liked the bond that blooms between her and a man who cares for her as no one else has even been willing to do.
The last part covers Natasha's journey to Russia to find out where she comes from and what actually happened to her parents. That's where her artistic talents prove to be the key to a very attractive paranormal plot. More secrets spill out, and a lot of action and some romance ensue. I believe this story has a lot of potential. I really hope to see it fully explored in future installments.
September 24, 2014
This was an interesting read. Although YA, it had a lot in it that leant itself to an adult title. The whole theme that art can save was intriguing to me, although my cynical side would normally sneer and snort at it, it made for a concept that I hadn’t seen anywhere else, which made this book quite special.
It was written first person from the protagonist’s POV, which really made you feel for her and her kind of ‘Orphan Annie’ background. I felt that it also had a strong opener too that kept you reading.
From a writers’ perspective, it wasn’t paced as well as it could have been and I found myself getting a bit frustrated waiting for the supernatural element. Maybe a few hints from the start as to where it was all heading might have helped the more impatient reader. As it stands, it’s well written but kind of feels like two halves of two different books, one an old style Virginia Andrews and the other a Stephanie Meyers.
The front cover is pretty, but doesn’t say a lot about the story. Perhaps could have done with the mural in the background and a supernatural element in there somewhere.
Overall, I’d give Moonflower 4 out of 5 stars – a great YA read with an interesting concept.
It was written first person from the protagonist’s POV, which really made you feel for her and her kind of ‘Orphan Annie’ background. I felt that it also had a strong opener too that kept you reading.
From a writers’ perspective, it wasn’t paced as well as it could have been and I found myself getting a bit frustrated waiting for the supernatural element. Maybe a few hints from the start as to where it was all heading might have helped the more impatient reader. As it stands, it’s well written but kind of feels like two halves of two different books, one an old style Virginia Andrews and the other a Stephanie Meyers.
The front cover is pretty, but doesn’t say a lot about the story. Perhaps could have done with the mural in the background and a supernatural element in there somewhere.
Overall, I’d give Moonflower 4 out of 5 stars – a great YA read with an interesting concept.
April 25, 2014
This story started out slow for me but I was completely dragged in! I couldn't put this down until I know if Natasha made it out safe and if she found love with Anatoly. Natasha comes from a broken upbringing. She doesn't know of her family except the tragedy that occurred. She is seeking someone to call home and give her hope.
When she finds out that evil is lurking close to her home in Russia she can't help but save the last scrap of remembrance. Determined to save the man she secretly loves she plunges into to mural desperate to save him.
If you like a fast paced story, then Moonflower is for you. It has something for everyone. I was in tears, laughing, and my heart was shattered. Beautiful story!
When she finds out that evil is lurking close to her home in Russia she can't help but save the last scrap of remembrance. Determined to save the man she secretly loves she plunges into to mural desperate to save him.
If you like a fast paced story, then Moonflower is for you. It has something for everyone. I was in tears, laughing, and my heart was shattered. Beautiful story!
January 8, 2024
Moonflower is a coming of age fantasy novel about a young girl with a dark past. Her childhood was marred by the tragic loss of her mother. The memory of that night haunts her dreams as vicious nightmares that create restless nights. Natasha’s youth has been plagued with her being shuffled from one group home to another after multiple failed placings. She just doesn’t fit, but things seem to have finally turned around for her when Bambi comes and takes her in.
Unfortunately, things will devolve for her yet again. But fortune will smile on her, even if it is briefly and give her a glimpse of what love could and would look like...in a different time and place.
Moonflower is an engaging novel that will draw you in from the first page. Natasha’s story is well detailed and comes together smoothly overall. She experiences hope and loss, but never lets it truly jade her overall. The characters are pretty realistic, but there could have been some more fleshing out for a couple of them. The romance angle is touch and go with a touch of “forbidden.”
This book is a standalone novel. It could have been drawn out into a series if the author had chosen to do so. Overall, it’s a pretty good story that kept me interesting in what was going to happen next.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Unfortunately, things will devolve for her yet again. But fortune will smile on her, even if it is briefly and give her a glimpse of what love could and would look like...in a different time and place.
Moonflower is an engaging novel that will draw you in from the first page. Natasha’s story is well detailed and comes together smoothly overall. She experiences hope and loss, but never lets it truly jade her overall. The characters are pretty realistic, but there could have been some more fleshing out for a couple of them. The romance angle is touch and go with a touch of “forbidden.”
This book is a standalone novel. It could have been drawn out into a series if the author had chosen to do so. Overall, it’s a pretty good story that kept me interesting in what was going to happen next.
4.5 out of 5 stars
January 19, 2018
This story was so captivating! I loved the story line in this novel. But my most favorite part was how much Angela detailed.
All the creatures she made had me scared, if I were in Natasha's place I would be terrified.
No matter what Natasha did though, she never lost hope. She kept sane for the people around her.
She was such a strong character. This story is one of my favorites by Ms. Angela.
All the creatures she made had me scared, if I were in Natasha's place I would be terrified.
No matter what Natasha did though, she never lost hope. She kept sane for the people around her.
She was such a strong character. This story is one of my favorites by Ms. Angela.
December 23, 2017
Very enjoyable.
It's a book of two halves and both of the stories are really interesting. Natasha's initial situation is a complex contemporary drama, then she is whisked away to a total fantasy which is very satisfying. I particularly enjoyed the way that art is used as a power. Really unusual, I've never seen that in this genre before.
It's a book of two halves and both of the stories are really interesting. Natasha's initial situation is a complex contemporary drama, then she is whisked away to a total fantasy which is very satisfying. I particularly enjoyed the way that art is used as a power. Really unusual, I've never seen that in this genre before.
June 16, 2019
A tale of a girl sent away for her own protection but yet manages to find her way back where she is desperately needed to help keep an evil force imprisoned in order to protect the world. Told in a beautifully twisted tale
September 17, 2020
Not bad, but a little choppy, even for a YA. Parts had real promise but were not really fleshed out
June 13, 2018
Natasha was such a wonderful character, the feelings I got from this story went from sad to happy, scared to joyful. The imaginary Ms. Townsend presented with the mural and the creatures went beyond anything I'd ever read before. I was hanging on the edge of my seat until the very last page. I recommend this book to EVERYONE!
January 17, 2017
I went into Moonflower blind. Most of the time I’ll read the synopsis before daring to read a book but not this one. I absolutely love the cover AND the publisher so I thought I’d be fine and I was right. And I’m glad I didn’t read about it beforehand because I was surprised at so many turns that wouldn’t have been possible had I gone in prepared.
I felt so sorry for Natasha. Being thrown into care and having to put up with Bit*h Bambi until she could escape. Even though she was dealt a rubbish hand she powered through and became stronger for it. She had strength and courage, I don’t think I’d be able to pack up and go to a new country looking for answers on my own, that would be scary as hell but she did it and much more.
I loved all the characters in Moonflower with the exception of Bambi but I’m sure everyone will feel the same as me. Chuck captured my heart and held it for a long time. He put up with all of Bambi’s crap because he wanted to stay close to Natasha, how amazing it that? I get why he done it now that I’ve finished but still, he won some major points from me. Anatoly was another great character, a knight in shining armour if you will, he swears to protect and help Natasha, even if it means making sacrifices of which he has to make.
I loved the plot, Natasha is an artist, as was her mother before her and ancestors before them. I thought it was brilliant and different. To have a mural that can come to life if it’s not restored was a great idea and I really enjoyed it. I also liked where Natasha’s nightmares were rooted from and how she overcame them.
The only thing that let it down for me was the ending, I felt as if the story was nowhere near finished and I wasn’t ready to let it go yet but I didn’t have a choice. I’d have liked to see where things went. Why isn’t it a series please? Other than that I really enjoyed Moonflower and I think any lover of paranormal will too.
I felt so sorry for Natasha. Being thrown into care and having to put up with Bit*h Bambi until she could escape. Even though she was dealt a rubbish hand she powered through and became stronger for it. She had strength and courage, I don’t think I’d be able to pack up and go to a new country looking for answers on my own, that would be scary as hell but she did it and much more.
I loved all the characters in Moonflower with the exception of Bambi but I’m sure everyone will feel the same as me. Chuck captured my heart and held it for a long time. He put up with all of Bambi’s crap because he wanted to stay close to Natasha, how amazing it that? I get why he done it now that I’ve finished but still, he won some major points from me. Anatoly was another great character, a knight in shining armour if you will, he swears to protect and help Natasha, even if it means making sacrifices of which he has to make.
I loved the plot, Natasha is an artist, as was her mother before her and ancestors before them. I thought it was brilliant and different. To have a mural that can come to life if it’s not restored was a great idea and I really enjoyed it. I also liked where Natasha’s nightmares were rooted from and how she overcame them.
The only thing that let it down for me was the ending, I felt as if the story was nowhere near finished and I wasn’t ready to let it go yet but I didn’t have a choice. I’d have liked to see where things went. Why isn’t it a series please? Other than that I really enjoyed Moonflower and I think any lover of paranormal will too.
April 13, 2014
*I was given a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review*
WOW!! We are once again whisked into the world of Rosa as she tries to get to, protect, fight for and find peace with her family. But there is tension growing within all of the wounded, they need to fight for those they have lost and for those they can't stand to lose.
Book 3 continues just as we left the characters in book 2. It is once again full of losses and love. Another epic dystopian that really explores how far you would be willing to go to save and protect your family. I was captivated by the story Lauren had continued and once again, I am at the point where I can't wait for more. :) Happy reading everyone x
This is not the first of Angela's work that i have read and it sure as hell won't be the last! The book is filled with action up until the very end and at the very first page we are strapped in for an emotional ride.
This book follows Natasha as she finally learns to open her heart and learn to love after a life of not being wanted. I thoroughly enjoyed being there as the characters developed and i really loved Chucks character and the effect he has on other characters. When Natasha is finally free in Russia she meets the three young people fated to protect her as she takes on her family job; Nickoli, a nimble boy who's always smiling, Mila, his girlfriend who imidiately welcomes , Natasha and finally Anatoly, i don't even know how to describe him. I did enjoy seing both sides of him though, the unwelcoming at the start and the boy who opens up at the end.
The characters were all distinct and played their own roles perfectly. I really enjoyed all of there developments; the ups and the downs, even for the characters that you wouldn't usually like (such as Bambi)
A thoroughly enjoyable book that is written beautifully; a book that i would recommend to you all. Happy reading everyone!!! ;)
WOW!! We are once again whisked into the world of Rosa as she tries to get to, protect, fight for and find peace with her family. But there is tension growing within all of the wounded, they need to fight for those they have lost and for those they can't stand to lose.
Book 3 continues just as we left the characters in book 2. It is once again full of losses and love. Another epic dystopian that really explores how far you would be willing to go to save and protect your family. I was captivated by the story Lauren had continued and once again, I am at the point where I can't wait for more. :) Happy reading everyone x
This is not the first of Angela's work that i have read and it sure as hell won't be the last! The book is filled with action up until the very end and at the very first page we are strapped in for an emotional ride.
This book follows Natasha as she finally learns to open her heart and learn to love after a life of not being wanted. I thoroughly enjoyed being there as the characters developed and i really loved Chucks character and the effect he has on other characters. When Natasha is finally free in Russia she meets the three young people fated to protect her as she takes on her family job; Nickoli, a nimble boy who's always smiling, Mila, his girlfriend who imidiately welcomes , Natasha and finally Anatoly, i don't even know how to describe him. I did enjoy seing both sides of him though, the unwelcoming at the start and the boy who opens up at the end.
The characters were all distinct and played their own roles perfectly. I really enjoyed all of there developments; the ups and the downs, even for the characters that you wouldn't usually like (such as Bambi)
A thoroughly enjoyable book that is written beautifully; a book that i would recommend to you all. Happy reading everyone!!! ;)
March 26, 2014
Art is a central part to this story, and I loved the message it gives. Art can save lives. In this story, Townsend is able to make that remark true while building a beautiful story around the idea. Nothing about it is normal, and this book holds the promise of expanding the horizons in the YA genre.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters. Even when I was appalled by their actions, I couldn't stop reading. Bambi was such a hard character to stomach, but the way she was written made me want to continue on and figure out why she was the way she was. Natasha knows hardly anything about her past. I felt it was such a privilege to be with her every step of the way as she uncovers the truth about her past and chases it down. She's a unique protagonist, and her story is one that you don't want to miss.
Angela J. Townsend has a way with writing that's poetic and pleasing. There are certain times that I looked over my shoulder because the dread that Natasha felt, I could feel too. There is no shortage of detail, description, and thought put into this book. I rarely say this, but this is one book that I'd love to see as a movie. I can easily image how it would look in my head thanks to the stunning visuals that this book drums up in my mind.
This book is a great read that highlights overcoming your past. There are no cliches or pet peeves to be found on these pages. Lover of art or not, this YA book is a must read for fans of the genre and fans of female protagonists who are real.
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Clean Teen Publishing and Angela J. Townsend.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the characters. Even when I was appalled by their actions, I couldn't stop reading. Bambi was such a hard character to stomach, but the way she was written made me want to continue on and figure out why she was the way she was. Natasha knows hardly anything about her past. I felt it was such a privilege to be with her every step of the way as she uncovers the truth about her past and chases it down. She's a unique protagonist, and her story is one that you don't want to miss.
Angela J. Townsend has a way with writing that's poetic and pleasing. There are certain times that I looked over my shoulder because the dread that Natasha felt, I could feel too. There is no shortage of detail, description, and thought put into this book. I rarely say this, but this is one book that I'd love to see as a movie. I can easily image how it would look in my head thanks to the stunning visuals that this book drums up in my mind.
This book is a great read that highlights overcoming your past. There are no cliches or pet peeves to be found on these pages. Lover of art or not, this YA book is a must read for fans of the genre and fans of female protagonists who are real.
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Clean Teen Publishing and Angela J. Townsend.
March 31, 2016
My to-be-read list is quite extensive, and due to the face I write reviews for a blog, that list is added to almost daily. I had known about Moonflower by Angela Townsend for a while now, and someone from the blog mentioned she had liked it when she had read it a few years ago. With other books filling in the spaces, I hadn't gotten around to reading it until now. I'm glad I finally did.
I think what drew me in from the outset was Natasha's background story, but she was a great character to read about in her own right. What also attracted me to her story was the Russian setting and the incorporation of Russian folklore and mythology. I'll also state that there were a few times I stopped my reading long enough to go look up some of these details and creatures because I'm curious about them. I love mythology anyway, but the fact that these were from Russia and not as well known as those of Greek and Norse mythology was something that I really enjoyed.
The fact Natasha is a painter was different as well, and I liked how that gift of hers was incorporated into the supernatural element of the story. I can't remember a book that I've read before that takes that approach, apart from The Golden Key by Melanie Rawn, Jennifer Roberson and Kate Elliott. (I'll admit I haven't finished it yet, but I have started it several times.) Of course, there are some romantic elements of the story as well, and I liked Anatoly. Mila and Nickoli were great characters as well.
If I had to name my favorite books read in 2016, I think Moonflower by Angela Townsend would be on that list. My rating is 5/5 platypires.
I think what drew me in from the outset was Natasha's background story, but she was a great character to read about in her own right. What also attracted me to her story was the Russian setting and the incorporation of Russian folklore and mythology. I'll also state that there were a few times I stopped my reading long enough to go look up some of these details and creatures because I'm curious about them. I love mythology anyway, but the fact that these were from Russia and not as well known as those of Greek and Norse mythology was something that I really enjoyed.
The fact Natasha is a painter was different as well, and I liked how that gift of hers was incorporated into the supernatural element of the story. I can't remember a book that I've read before that takes that approach, apart from The Golden Key by Melanie Rawn, Jennifer Roberson and Kate Elliott. (I'll admit I haven't finished it yet, but I have started it several times.) Of course, there are some romantic elements of the story as well, and I liked Anatoly. Mila and Nickoli were great characters as well.
If I had to name my favorite books read in 2016, I think Moonflower by Angela Townsend would be on that list. My rating is 5/5 platypires.
April 14, 2014
Although I really loved this book it didn't reach its potential. I felt that it was a bit on the short side due to the fact that most of the story was focused on Natasha and her relationship with her adoptive mother and on getting her to Russia and after that the story left me hanging. Once she gets to Russia the mural and monsters are quick, there is no build up it's just sudden;there was no real development. Both with the story line and the characters. Other than Natasha I felt no connection with any of the other characters because they were barely mentioned, they sort of felt just there.
Examples:
Other than me feeling that the book did not reach its potential, I enjoyed it. I love how art is a main focus to the story and what it means. Thinking of art as a way to save lives was great.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Examples:
Other than me feeling that the book did not reach its potential, I enjoyed it. I love how art is a main focus to the story and what it means. Thinking of art as a way to save lives was great.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2015
This gets 3.8 out of 5 stars from me.
It started off as a young adult story about an orphan girl in a crappy living situation. The book is half over before anyone realizes Natasha has a special destiny (even though the blurb promises as much).
Once the book reached the mystical point, the story seemed to spiral downward. I believed and understood Natasha the guarded artist wandering Seattle's streets. The Natasha whose attraction to one of her guards seems to escalate rather too rapidly? No so much. Also, the story sprints from introduction of true problem to final battle to resolution. The dark forces faced and the ramifications if they were released deserved more attention to detail than they received.
Either too much time was spent in set-up (although that was my favorite part of this story) or the author rushed through the rest of the tale. I lean toward the second. This is the third book I've read by Townsend, and I enjoy her writing style. This story was the least well-constructed of the three I read, even though I think I gave them all four stars.
I will read more by this author, but I hope she doesn't rush through the others like she did this one.
It started off as a young adult story about an orphan girl in a crappy living situation. The book is half over before anyone realizes Natasha has a special destiny (even though the blurb promises as much).
Once the book reached the mystical point, the story seemed to spiral downward. I believed and understood Natasha the guarded artist wandering Seattle's streets. The Natasha whose attraction to one of her guards seems to escalate rather too rapidly? No so much. Also, the story sprints from introduction of true problem to final battle to resolution. The dark forces faced and the ramifications if they were released deserved more attention to detail than they received.
Either too much time was spent in set-up (although that was my favorite part of this story) or the author rushed through the rest of the tale. I lean toward the second. This is the third book I've read by Townsend, and I enjoy her writing style. This story was the least well-constructed of the three I read, even though I think I gave them all four stars.
I will read more by this author, but I hope she doesn't rush through the others like she did this one.
April 19, 2015
Moonflower was so enjoyable a read for me that I had a hard time putting my Kindle down when I needed to. The story has a main character that I really like, the writing is superb and the story is creative and intriguing. When introduced with supernatural/paranormal elements in the story the main character doesn't just accept them blindly, but questions the truthfulness of what is being told to her, unlike so many characters in books. No sex, foul language or crudeness, but there are references to alcohol drinking, smoking and killing, due to the main character's rough upbringing. I appreciate the author making this a stand alone book and not the beginning of a series that goes downhill after the first book. The title of the book is also very catchy and had me looking up images of moonflowers. I would also like to add that I only read the first two paragraphs and the next line in the description before I read the book and I think that added to the intrigue in reading the story. I think book descriptions often give too much of the story away. 4.5 stars.
March 21, 2014
Moonflower by Angela Townsend is probably one of the most entertaining books I’ve had the privilege to read this year. The main character, Natasha, is absolutely exploding with secrets of a past nearly oblivious to her. The only recollection her tortured mind can muster up is the one deadly event that took her family away from her and then sent her overseas to keep her safe from the evil at the heart of it all. This novel is a mixture of heart wrenching loss in the beginning to a completely courageous and selfless act that mends even the most tattered soul in the end. I recommend Moonflower to anyone who is brave enough to overcome all that life throws at you and still stand, for that is Natasha. Kudos, Angela, you’ve done it again.
April 18, 2014
Natasha, is a strong independent character who unfortunately relies a lot upon Anatoly to save her from falling. She is a horrible klutz, haha. Though she's fiercely independent up to that point and quite the mystery to those around her she is real enough for the reader to relate to.
The story starts out in America. Natasha is a foster child in a questionable home but when things go awry, she finds her way to Russia. I really did enjoy this part. She managed to find a bit of her heritage and learned of a dark secret surrounding her town and her family.
I loved the idea the author put forward, that our passions could be our salvation. I think YA readers would love the mystery and unique story in Moonflower.
Full Review can be found on The Reader's Hollow blog
The story starts out in America. Natasha is a foster child in a questionable home but when things go awry, she finds her way to Russia. I really did enjoy this part. She managed to find a bit of her heritage and learned of a dark secret surrounding her town and her family.
I loved the idea the author put forward, that our passions could be our salvation. I think YA readers would love the mystery and unique story in Moonflower.
Full Review can be found on The Reader's Hollow blog
February 26, 2014
*I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book from the publishers*
This is the third book by this author that I have had the opportunity to read and whilst they have all been very different they all have one thing in common, they are amazing.
This is not your typical YA fantasy. It takes you in a direction that I could never have anticipated blending a harsh reality with a mix of beautiful, yet frightening imagination.
The characters are fresh and unique, as is the story, and the pages practically turn themselves as the story goes on. Definitely one to add to your collection!
V""V
This is the third book by this author that I have had the opportunity to read and whilst they have all been very different they all have one thing in common, they are amazing.
This is not your typical YA fantasy. It takes you in a direction that I could never have anticipated blending a harsh reality with a mix of beautiful, yet frightening imagination.
The characters are fresh and unique, as is the story, and the pages practically turn themselves as the story goes on. Definitely one to add to your collection!
V""V
August 11, 2016
Moonflower is a beautiful story filled with tension and fast-pace action as Natasha makes her way through the American foster system and into Russian folklore. The whole concept is creative and unique (and a bit terrifying!), and puts a great spin on art in general. I highly recommend it!
January 15, 2015
Are you serious? Could this be any more awful? Each character was as stereotypical as the author could possibly make them. The story line was trite and obvious. It was just awful and I'm not wasting my time trying to finish it.
October 19, 2016
The idea behind this book had me from the get go and it was a good story to read but it felt so fast paced to me, rushed. I wanted so many more details!!!!!!!!
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