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Tree and Tower #1
The Thirteenth Tower
In adversity lies strength beyond imagining.
Abandoned as a baby, young Emelyn’s life as a housemaid in the quiet village of Fallow is unremarkable—and empty. That is, until a host of magical creatures arrives and inflicts terrible misdeeds on the townsfolk. Inexplicably immune to their enchantments, Emelyn joins a pair of Magi intent on stopping the cause of the trouble—and who claim to know of her parents, promising Emelyn answers to a lifetime of questions.
But the answers Emelyn seeks prove to be more elusive than she hoped, and the world outside Fallow more perilous than she imagined. Magical creatures roam the land over, attacking yet another town before coming after Emelyn. The key to her survival—and finding her family—lies deep within her, if only she can conquer her doubts and believe she is more powerful than she ever dreamed.
In a journey that explores facing one’s fears amidst the uncertainties of an unknown world, The Thirteenth Tower is a magical tale of discovery, growth, and of love’s enduring strength.
Abandoned as a baby, young Emelyn’s life as a housemaid in the quiet village of Fallow is unremarkable—and empty. That is, until a host of magical creatures arrives and inflicts terrible misdeeds on the townsfolk. Inexplicably immune to their enchantments, Emelyn joins a pair of Magi intent on stopping the cause of the trouble—and who claim to know of her parents, promising Emelyn answers to a lifetime of questions.
But the answers Emelyn seeks prove to be more elusive than she hoped, and the world outside Fallow more perilous than she imagined. Magical creatures roam the land over, attacking yet another town before coming after Emelyn. The key to her survival—and finding her family—lies deep within her, if only she can conquer her doubts and believe she is more powerful than she ever dreamed.
In a journey that explores facing one’s fears amidst the uncertainties of an unknown world, The Thirteenth Tower is a magical tale of discovery, growth, and of love’s enduring strength.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2014
9 people are currently reading
1010 people want to read
About the author
Sara C. Snider
5 books35 followersSara C. Snider was born and raised in northern California, but now lives in Sweden with her partner and two beastly cats. She has a bachelor’s degree in Archives and Information Science that is currently sitting on a shelf, collecting dust, as she pursues her literary dreams.
When not reading or writing, Sara enjoys wandering in the woods, playing computer games, and eating dumplings as often as possible. She loves all things faerie, and has grown to accept she will always be covered in cat hair.
When not reading or writing, Sara enjoys wandering in the woods, playing computer games, and eating dumplings as often as possible. She loves all things faerie, and has grown to accept she will always be covered in cat hair.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
May 1, 2018
3 SHINY STARS!
The Story
The Characters
As a fantasy fan,this was a good novel.It took me 2 and a half days to finish this.The world that the author has created is awesome and the characters really fit with the background.Also the creatures in this book are not exactly the creatures I'm familiar with.
The plot was well build.But I do have a problem with the story.It was kind of slow at some parts and not very interesting.I would rewrite almost half the book and make it more exciting.That means that I was bored,but in the other hand there were moments I was really thrilled and did not expect to happen at all.
I liked the beginning and the way that story goes.I loved the idea with festival and the way how things turned out.The ending also had a unexpected twist.The middle of the book was the part I did not like a lot but it was good.It could have been better.
The Story
So this book is about an orphan called Emelyn who has a lot of unanswered questions about her early life.One day she tries to get ready to attend the Harvest Festival.But what happens there is what changes her life and now she is headed to risks and unexpected truths.
The Characters
I liked the characters but I think the author could have done a better job with describing them.There were a lot of great characters but I couldn't connect with them properly.Also the main character Emelyn doesn't have great qualities like she is not very smart and she doesn't come up like the main characters do.Also the other characters are like emotionless and I did not like that.
I recommend this book to fantasy lovers.It's a fun read.
October 14, 2014
I suspect this is the first in a new fantasy series for middle grade readers, and it revolves around Emelyn.
This ARC was provided by NetGalley and Double Beast Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
My Take
Snider manages quite a lot of information in a short time as she introduces us to Emelyn's world. One in which she indulges in all the usual daydreams of an orphan, hoping to one day find her family and learn that they hadn't meant to leave her so long. Snider certainly kept me wondering for the longest time about Corran and the barefooted girl, and when the truth emerges, you just want to weep.
She's included a unique twist on what I consider the fae in the form of the forest people and a horrible twist on the Magi to whom all must be reduced to rote formula. It's actually a very good example of show, as Snider's Magi ignore or lie about what they don't want to discuss, and Snider uses the fear Emelyn feels about them and Corran's suspicions to build in the tension.
Only we don't know any of this for sure. We suspect, we wonder. We hope. Meanwhile, the Magisters know how to entice Emelyn to accompany them on their journey. It's the core of the conflict in this story, and Snider is not shy about adding more and more of it. Teases from Snider, baiting from the Magisters, and the taunting appearances of Iyen. The Magisters' conversations, Corran's comments all serve to keep you glued to The Thirteenth Tower.
When they abandon Corran, I don't get the logic that they'll encounter him later on their journey. Okay, never mind. It's like much in The Thirteenth Tower with the Magisters. They give out as little as possible. I fear them, that they look to trap their prey. It's that vignette at the Thirteenth Tower that finally proves their arrogance, their stupidity. Jeez, I can't believe how blind, ignorant, and one-sided Percival is. There should be a balance between learning and discovery — it feels like a metaphor for man and his science, and these Magisters make me think of those Nazi doctors willing to do anything to their captives for the answer to any of their perverse questions.
Oh, I did love Iyen's revenge, their own shades offering up the same words of "comfort".
It's a journey that will open the world to Emelyn.
The Story
It could have been worse, and it could have been better. At least Emelyn has a place to sleep and food to eat. For today, she’s looking forward to getting her chores done so she may attend the Harvest Festival.
It’s an unexpected parade of all sorts that pulls her out of the Mansell yard, for it’s the neighbors, the Mansells, their neighbor Mrs. Bower, the servants all skipping and gadding along following a fiddler playing a twisted branch.
It’s the information Emelyn has sought her entire life that decides her to follow the Magi, and it will be a road of unexpected adventures and even more unexpected truths.
The Characters
Emelyn is an orphan left on the doorstep of the Mansell residence in Fallow. Later, Cobbe will call her Silver-eyes and Corran she will name Hollow-man.
Corran is a protective young man who appears out of nowhere and rescues Emelyn. He used to apprentice with Mr. Wainwright some years ago, although he came from Tirenfor where the Magi did not exist and his people celebrated the old ways. Iyen is the wife the Magisters took from him as he fled with their daughter, Siyan.
Magisters and Towers
Magi/Magisters are magic users. Cocky, "science"-oriented, singleminded men who came from the south. They pushed ever northward building their Towers. "Civilizing" the barbarians and bringing enlightenment. The Magisters of the past were Hauer and Jennison.
Grand Magister Percival Lacreld is from the Twelfth Tower. Aldren Keller is High Magister of the Twelfth Tower with a passion for flora and fauna.
Roelith is a bustling mini metropolis up in the north.
Cobbe is a Wylkin and was in the city trapping falcons for dinners. They are renowned as fantastic cooks, but are rarely seen as they seldom leave their forest homes. Amongst the Wylkin, a Den Mother is their leader, drawn from the Wildings, the female Wylkin who leave their villages to travel and explore. Bog is the second Wylkin Emelyn meets.
Beryl Royen is the kindly innkeeper with her husband and son. Ferrin is the name Emelyn gives the donkey they buy. Werren Worsby is a trader they encounter.
Fallow, the village
Derron is a boy Emelyn is sweet on. Mr. Hibberly runs the general store; his wife, Mrs. Hibberly, is quite critical. Mr. Cowan sells meat pies and ale. Mr. Gatwick is the dairyman whose wife will be selling butter, cream, and cheeses at the festival. Mrs. Troller sells her apples and preserves. Mr. Torvel is the alchemist, and Mrs. Gristman would never agree to what they were doing to her. Patrice is a servant girl from a neighboring household.
Mansell
Torrence Mansell is the master. Miss Merridan Cook is the household cook; the housekeeper is the one who took Emelyn in and raised until she was ten when she was put to work. Tilly is her dearest and only friend and another housemaid. Mr. Witherby is the gardener?
Lamphyr are a sea-folk superstition of men without eyes holding lanterns. The Art is the magic and using of it whether through the Natural or Constructed runes. Threshing is a test all potential Magi undergo and it exacts a heavy price. The forest-kin have great power but wield it in everyday tasks. The And'estar are their wise ones.
The Cover
The cover is beautiful with its tall pines dusted in snow as the rescued falcon flies overhead.
The title is the key to their secrets, The Thirteenth Tower. It holds the truth about their dirty deeds.
This ARC was provided by NetGalley and Double Beast Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
My Take
Snider manages quite a lot of information in a short time as she introduces us to Emelyn's world. One in which she indulges in all the usual daydreams of an orphan, hoping to one day find her family and learn that they hadn't meant to leave her so long. Snider certainly kept me wondering for the longest time about Corran and the barefooted girl, and when the truth emerges, you just want to weep.
She's included a unique twist on what I consider the fae in the form of the forest people and a horrible twist on the Magi to whom all must be reduced to rote formula. It's actually a very good example of show, as Snider's Magi ignore or lie about what they don't want to discuss, and Snider uses the fear Emelyn feels about them and Corran's suspicions to build in the tension.
Only we don't know any of this for sure. We suspect, we wonder. We hope. Meanwhile, the Magisters know how to entice Emelyn to accompany them on their journey. It's the core of the conflict in this story, and Snider is not shy about adding more and more of it. Teases from Snider, baiting from the Magisters, and the taunting appearances of Iyen. The Magisters' conversations, Corran's comments all serve to keep you glued to The Thirteenth Tower.
When they abandon Corran, I don't get the logic that they'll encounter him later on their journey. Okay, never mind. It's like much in The Thirteenth Tower with the Magisters. They give out as little as possible. I fear them, that they look to trap their prey. It's that vignette at the Thirteenth Tower that finally proves their arrogance, their stupidity. Jeez, I can't believe how blind, ignorant, and one-sided Percival is. There should be a balance between learning and discovery — it feels like a metaphor for man and his science, and these Magisters make me think of those Nazi doctors willing to do anything to their captives for the answer to any of their perverse questions.
Oh, I did love Iyen's revenge, their own shades offering up the same words of "comfort".
It's a journey that will open the world to Emelyn.
The Story
It could have been worse, and it could have been better. At least Emelyn has a place to sleep and food to eat. For today, she’s looking forward to getting her chores done so she may attend the Harvest Festival.
It’s an unexpected parade of all sorts that pulls her out of the Mansell yard, for it’s the neighbors, the Mansells, their neighbor Mrs. Bower, the servants all skipping and gadding along following a fiddler playing a twisted branch.
It’s the information Emelyn has sought her entire life that decides her to follow the Magi, and it will be a road of unexpected adventures and even more unexpected truths.
The Characters
Emelyn is an orphan left on the doorstep of the Mansell residence in Fallow. Later, Cobbe will call her Silver-eyes and Corran she will name Hollow-man.
Corran is a protective young man who appears out of nowhere and rescues Emelyn. He used to apprentice with Mr. Wainwright some years ago, although he came from Tirenfor where the Magi did not exist and his people celebrated the old ways. Iyen is the wife the Magisters took from him as he fled with their daughter, Siyan.
Magisters and Towers
Magi/Magisters are magic users. Cocky, "science"-oriented, singleminded men who came from the south. They pushed ever northward building their Towers. "Civilizing" the barbarians and bringing enlightenment. The Magisters of the past were Hauer and Jennison.
Grand Magister Percival Lacreld is from the Twelfth Tower. Aldren Keller is High Magister of the Twelfth Tower with a passion for flora and fauna.
Roelith is a bustling mini metropolis up in the north.
Cobbe is a Wylkin and was in the city trapping falcons for dinners. They are renowned as fantastic cooks, but are rarely seen as they seldom leave their forest homes. Amongst the Wylkin, a Den Mother is their leader, drawn from the Wildings, the female Wylkin who leave their villages to travel and explore. Bog is the second Wylkin Emelyn meets.
Beryl Royen is the kindly innkeeper with her husband and son. Ferrin is the name Emelyn gives the donkey they buy. Werren Worsby is a trader they encounter.
Fallow, the village
Derron is a boy Emelyn is sweet on. Mr. Hibberly runs the general store; his wife, Mrs. Hibberly, is quite critical. Mr. Cowan sells meat pies and ale. Mr. Gatwick is the dairyman whose wife will be selling butter, cream, and cheeses at the festival. Mrs. Troller sells her apples and preserves. Mr. Torvel is the alchemist, and Mrs. Gristman would never agree to what they were doing to her. Patrice is a servant girl from a neighboring household.
Mansell
Torrence Mansell is the master. Miss Merridan Cook is the household cook; the housekeeper is the one who took Emelyn in and raised until she was ten when she was put to work. Tilly is her dearest and only friend and another housemaid. Mr. Witherby is the gardener?
Lamphyr are a sea-folk superstition of men without eyes holding lanterns. The Art is the magic and using of it whether through the Natural or Constructed runes. Threshing is a test all potential Magi undergo and it exacts a heavy price. The forest-kin have great power but wield it in everyday tasks. The And'estar are their wise ones.
The Cover
The cover is beautiful with its tall pines dusted in snow as the rescued falcon flies overhead.
The title is the key to their secrets, The Thirteenth Tower. It holds the truth about their dirty deeds.
October 29, 2014
[Disclaimer: I received a free copy of the e-book edition from NetGalley.]
The Thirteenth Tower was actually a pleasant surprise. I've read some really awful books that I got from NetGalley lately, and was expecting more of the same, which is probably why I ended up enjoying it as much as I did. Emelyn starts out as a servant girl, but ends up as so much more.
There is a lot good about this book. I mostly enjoyed the writing style, found it easy to read, and the dialogue wasn't as strained as I expected. There were moments where I found it wandering off into flowery territory, but for the most part it was appropriate and well-done. Emelyn isn't the greatest heroine, she's not someone I could see myself being friends with, but she isn't insufferable and her story ends up being quite thought-out.
The concept itself was interesting, and I appreciated the execution of the twists and turns of story. One thing I didn't like: it was absolutely completely predictable. It really was obvious what was going to happen; I think I figured it out about halfway through. And while that's a pretty nice chunk of book in which I was in the dark, it still leaves half the book for me to go "OK, when is [this] going to happen?" or "When is she going to figure out she's [that]?"
I didn't like the ending, there was too much going on in the final major scene and yet not enough. I felt like I was trudging through mud while reading the "battle" scene, and I still can't figure out exactly what happened. Also, I don't see anywhere on GR that this is a planned series, so the strange and abrupt ending has left me a bit confused. And while I appreciate Cobbe as a character, I still can't quite figure out her purpose aside from keeping them fed, and providing a little comic relief.
The one thing that has bothered me throughout the entire book is one of the opening scenes: when Emelyn gets swept away to the festival and finds instead the strange creatures, we see the following:
This is the *only* such passage in the entire book. Throughout the rest of it there isn't even the barest mention of sex, the closest thing to describing a body part being Emelyn's attempts to figure out whether the small-folk are men or women. It stuck out in a bad way, because otherwise this book was pretty exclusively PG. I'm not saying it was inappropriate, but it didn't fit at all with the rest of the book or with the narrative style. I would consider removing it in future editions, only because I felt it interrupted the story for no reason whatsoever, distracting me from what was going on.
So there's room for improvement, and if it IS going to be a series that explains the ending. It's not fantastic high fantasy, but it was a pretty good read and I rather enjoyed it.
ETA 10/29/14 - I've been skimming other reviews just to see what others have said about this book. A lot of people have mentioned the lack of character development. Upon further reflection, I think I was a bit too generous in mentioning I felt that Emelyn was well-developed. Presented with passages and examples of her stupidity, I realize I had been thinking this all along. I think what changed my mind was at the end when she decides to embrace her powers and stop being so stupid. Maybe that blinded me to her faults (and there were many). It's probably why I said I didn't really care for her as a person, or wouldn't be friends with her. Anyway, I agree with other reviewers that most of the characters could have been more well-developed, with their motives a bit more clear, or noted at all.
The Thirteenth Tower was actually a pleasant surprise. I've read some really awful books that I got from NetGalley lately, and was expecting more of the same, which is probably why I ended up enjoying it as much as I did. Emelyn starts out as a servant girl, but ends up as so much more.
There is a lot good about this book. I mostly enjoyed the writing style, found it easy to read, and the dialogue wasn't as strained as I expected. There were moments where I found it wandering off into flowery territory, but for the most part it was appropriate and well-done. Emelyn isn't the greatest heroine, she's not someone I could see myself being friends with, but she isn't insufferable and her story ends up being quite thought-out.
The concept itself was interesting, and I appreciated the execution of the twists and turns of story. One thing I didn't like: it was absolutely completely predictable. It really was obvious what was going to happen; I think I figured it out about halfway through. And while that's a pretty nice chunk of book in which I was in the dark, it still leaves half the book for me to go "OK, when is [this] going to happen?" or "When is she going to figure out she's [that]?"
I didn't like the ending, there was too much going on in the final major scene and yet not enough. I felt like I was trudging through mud while reading the "battle" scene, and I still can't figure out exactly what happened. Also, I don't see anywhere on GR that this is a planned series, so the strange and abrupt ending has left me a bit confused. And while I appreciate Cobbe as a character, I still can't quite figure out her purpose aside from keeping them fed, and providing a little comic relief.
The one thing that has bothered me throughout the entire book is one of the opening scenes: when Emelyn gets swept away to the festival and finds instead the strange creatures, we see the following:
This is the *only* such passage in the entire book. Throughout the rest of it there isn't even the barest mention of sex, the closest thing to describing a body part being Emelyn's attempts to figure out whether the small-folk are men or women. It stuck out in a bad way, because otherwise this book was pretty exclusively PG. I'm not saying it was inappropriate, but it didn't fit at all with the rest of the book or with the narrative style. I would consider removing it in future editions, only because I felt it interrupted the story for no reason whatsoever, distracting me from what was going on.
So there's room for improvement, and if it IS going to be a series that explains the ending. It's not fantastic high fantasy, but it was a pretty good read and I rather enjoyed it.
ETA 10/29/14 - I've been skimming other reviews just to see what others have said about this book. A lot of people have mentioned the lack of character development. Upon further reflection, I think I was a bit too generous in mentioning I felt that Emelyn was well-developed. Presented with passages and examples of her stupidity, I realize I had been thinking this all along. I think what changed my mind was at the end when she decides to embrace her powers and stop being so stupid. Maybe that blinded me to her faults (and there were many). It's probably why I said I didn't really care for her as a person, or wouldn't be friends with her. Anyway, I agree with other reviewers that most of the characters could have been more well-developed, with their motives a bit more clear, or noted at all.
April 6, 2014
This cover, and then the first chapter, is what first sold me on this book.
What Snider really had going for her with this book was creativity and creatures. The adventure-style kind of plot, which I'm not always a fan of, was very enhanced by all the new encounters. Most of the creatures are new, at least, in my experience. As a reader, I really enjoyed going along for the ride. Cobbe was, hands down, my favorite person in this book! Her and her pig were an absolute delight, and a little gollum-esque, without the creep factor.
Another thing going for Snider was the world she created, and the way she used and categorized magic. It was a magical system that was new to me, and that kind of originality in fantasy is always refreshing to come across. I liked that the magic took physical concentration and mental strength from the wizards.
One of the main points of the plot was pretty apparent to me at the beginning (no spoilers here, don't worry) but then, when it came about at the end, still had a significant twist. So while I saw it coming, I also didn't see it coming, which almost acted as a double surprise. My suspicion is that Snider planned it that way all along, and probably knew that it would be obvious, so kind of leads the reader along an assumed path and surprises them with another one.
What I struggled with in this book is in regards to the Magi (or the wizards). It was about 50% of the way through the book before I really figured out the difference between the two of them. They both came off somewhat flat and bland, except Aldren, who eventually had some kind of personality, but it took awhile. They both came off as background features. As a result, I feel it slowed the plot somewhat, as I found myself wondering towards the end . . . 'ok, so when are they going to be important already?'
The only other issue I had with the book was the occasional passivity of the main character. I found myself spurring her on to greater action or motivation several times in the book. She didn't need to be an overwhelming presence, and there were times that she showed strength, but overall I wanted a bit more spunk from her. Regardless of this, Snider still made me sympathetic to her from the beginning, and I still rooted for her, and was curious to see what became of her.
I read this book in two days, looked forward to reading it, and plan to buy the next installment. Snider, as a writer, has strength in her words and positive world building skills.
What Snider really had going for her with this book was creativity and creatures. The adventure-style kind of plot, which I'm not always a fan of, was very enhanced by all the new encounters. Most of the creatures are new, at least, in my experience. As a reader, I really enjoyed going along for the ride. Cobbe was, hands down, my favorite person in this book! Her and her pig were an absolute delight, and a little gollum-esque, without the creep factor.
Another thing going for Snider was the world she created, and the way she used and categorized magic. It was a magical system that was new to me, and that kind of originality in fantasy is always refreshing to come across. I liked that the magic took physical concentration and mental strength from the wizards.
One of the main points of the plot was pretty apparent to me at the beginning (no spoilers here, don't worry) but then, when it came about at the end, still had a significant twist. So while I saw it coming, I also didn't see it coming, which almost acted as a double surprise. My suspicion is that Snider planned it that way all along, and probably knew that it would be obvious, so kind of leads the reader along an assumed path and surprises them with another one.
What I struggled with in this book is in regards to the Magi (or the wizards). It was about 50% of the way through the book before I really figured out the difference between the two of them. They both came off somewhat flat and bland, except Aldren, who eventually had some kind of personality, but it took awhile. They both came off as background features. As a result, I feel it slowed the plot somewhat, as I found myself wondering towards the end . . . 'ok, so when are they going to be important already?'
The only other issue I had with the book was the occasional passivity of the main character. I found myself spurring her on to greater action or motivation several times in the book. She didn't need to be an overwhelming presence, and there were times that she showed strength, but overall I wanted a bit more spunk from her. Regardless of this, Snider still made me sympathetic to her from the beginning, and I still rooted for her, and was curious to see what became of her.
I read this book in two days, looked forward to reading it, and plan to buy the next installment. Snider, as a writer, has strength in her words and positive world building skills.
December 6, 2014
Emelyn is an orphan who knows nothing about her family. Abandoned at the doorstep of a wealthy family and taken in as a house servant, she's always been extra curious about her roots. Secretly, she dreams of much more for herself than a life of servitude. When a festival comes to her small hometown of Fallow, the town falls under a malicious spell. Everyone in the town seems to be adversely affected, except Emelyn. When a group of magisters (red robes) come to her aid, they promise to tell her about her parents if she follows them back to their tower. Emelyn is very skeptical and doubts their intentions are altruistic, especially since a young man, Corren, who also wants to help her is adamant they are evil. What follows is a quest for not only to a destination, but also for answers to all of Emelyn's burning questions about her family and her manifesting powers.
The Thirteenth Tower is set in a magical world in a town called Fallow to begin with, then moves to other cities and towns as the quest ensues. Pacing is quite slow. Its quick out of the gate, but slows down significantly as the story progresses. Then, towards the end it picks up again. This one is told in a third person narrative, primarily from Emelyn's viewpoint, but at times it does switch to the perspective of other prominent characters.
Emelyn, the main character in this story was quite naive, I can't blame her since she'd lead a very sheltered life working as a servant. This character trait lead her many times into making poor decisions. I did appreciate that she cared about others and especially that she had a soft spot for animals. I know this girl held compassion, if she didn't I don't think the story would have concluded as it did.
Corren, Emelyn's friend, was a shallow character, difficult to really get to know. He didn't make a lot of sense and at times seemed reserved and very strange. In the end, when all is revealed his character makes plenty more sense. As the story unfolds, he comes off as pretty weird. I'm glad he's rectified in the end.
Cobbe, the wildkin, was probably my favorite character. I enjoyed her because she spoke her mind. She was very strong willed and confident. I liked how she backed up whatever she boasted about. When she put her mind to something she wouldn't let anything get in her way of achieving her goal. She was one heck of a great cook and kept a watchful eye out for Emelyn, even though she really didn't want to.
Aldren, one of the lower class magistors was the only guy in the "red robes" group I liked. He was dealing with some pretty bad baggage. I liked how he yearned to do things differently this time around. It was important to me that he cared about Emelyn. None of the other magistors did. He seemed to take the time to get to know her, this is especially evident when he tried to teach her the ways of the Art. I didn't like how he had to keep so closed lipped on certain subjects.
Even though this was a slow moving book, it wasn't dull or boring. The main problem, it lacked action. I'd give it high marks for creativity and craftiness, with an abundance of unique creatures I'd never read about before. My favorite creatures were the Wildkins, who sort of reminded me of hobbits in a strange sort of way. Mainly because they were short in stature. The forest creatures were elusive and were creatures I'd like to learn more about in subsequent installments of the series. Magic, in this book is referred to as "The Art". Different cultures wield it in their own ways. The plot was fairly complex, this was more of a plot driven book than a character driven one. Even though most of the unexpected twists were somewhat predictable to me, I wasn't able to guess them all. The way the title was integrated into the plot fit nicely and was very powerful. I believe this book could be read as a stand alone novel, but I have a feeling this one is going to be part of a bigger series. The author ended the story in a good place. I just felt she left it open for more story to tell about what Evelyn will chose to do next.
I would recommend this book to patient fantasy lovers, those who don't mind a slow moving, but interesting story. It reads like a fairytale. The language is also formal and sort of dated or maybe could be considered mature. The conversations were definitely very formal, too. I would say young people who get easily bothered by blood should not read this one as some of the scenes are fairly violent.
The Thirteenth Tower is set in a magical world in a town called Fallow to begin with, then moves to other cities and towns as the quest ensues. Pacing is quite slow. Its quick out of the gate, but slows down significantly as the story progresses. Then, towards the end it picks up again. This one is told in a third person narrative, primarily from Emelyn's viewpoint, but at times it does switch to the perspective of other prominent characters.
Emelyn, the main character in this story was quite naive, I can't blame her since she'd lead a very sheltered life working as a servant. This character trait lead her many times into making poor decisions. I did appreciate that she cared about others and especially that she had a soft spot for animals. I know this girl held compassion, if she didn't I don't think the story would have concluded as it did.
Corren, Emelyn's friend, was a shallow character, difficult to really get to know. He didn't make a lot of sense and at times seemed reserved and very strange. In the end, when all is revealed his character makes plenty more sense. As the story unfolds, he comes off as pretty weird. I'm glad he's rectified in the end.
Cobbe, the wildkin, was probably my favorite character. I enjoyed her because she spoke her mind. She was very strong willed and confident. I liked how she backed up whatever she boasted about. When she put her mind to something she wouldn't let anything get in her way of achieving her goal. She was one heck of a great cook and kept a watchful eye out for Emelyn, even though she really didn't want to.
Aldren, one of the lower class magistors was the only guy in the "red robes" group I liked. He was dealing with some pretty bad baggage. I liked how he yearned to do things differently this time around. It was important to me that he cared about Emelyn. None of the other magistors did. He seemed to take the time to get to know her, this is especially evident when he tried to teach her the ways of the Art. I didn't like how he had to keep so closed lipped on certain subjects.
Even though this was a slow moving book, it wasn't dull or boring. The main problem, it lacked action. I'd give it high marks for creativity and craftiness, with an abundance of unique creatures I'd never read about before. My favorite creatures were the Wildkins, who sort of reminded me of hobbits in a strange sort of way. Mainly because they were short in stature. The forest creatures were elusive and were creatures I'd like to learn more about in subsequent installments of the series. Magic, in this book is referred to as "The Art". Different cultures wield it in their own ways. The plot was fairly complex, this was more of a plot driven book than a character driven one. Even though most of the unexpected twists were somewhat predictable to me, I wasn't able to guess them all. The way the title was integrated into the plot fit nicely and was very powerful. I believe this book could be read as a stand alone novel, but I have a feeling this one is going to be part of a bigger series. The author ended the story in a good place. I just felt she left it open for more story to tell about what Evelyn will chose to do next.
I would recommend this book to patient fantasy lovers, those who don't mind a slow moving, but interesting story. It reads like a fairytale. The language is also formal and sort of dated or maybe could be considered mature. The conversations were definitely very formal, too. I would say young people who get easily bothered by blood should not read this one as some of the scenes are fairly violent.
October 3, 2014
This is a generous three stars. I considered just giving it two, because to me it was just ok. But the book finished really strong, and I feel like if the writer can continue with the momentum she ended this book with, it might really be a special series. However it was not enough to make up for the first 3/4ths of the book, so three stars it is.
Likes: The ideas in this book were interesting to me. But I just itched to scratch the whole first 3/4ths out and re-write it with some depth to it. Especially Percival, I'm so disappointed in him, he could have been really interesting. And Corran. And maybe some of the characters alluded to in the first part of the book that we never actually meet but are just told about. Or the ones we did meet and supposedly care about that are never mentioned in the resolution. And, um, Emelyn too. Dang it.
The strength in this book was in the last few chapters (although not the very last chapter), during the climatic scene. It truly fired up my imagination, the imagery and ideas were different and interesting. I loved the idea of the forest people, and the hobbit like things, and the idea of a woman having power that isn't accessed the same way as the men, and exploring that. I hope it IS explored in the next books instead of just one of the many things alluded to that are never resolved.
Didn't work for me: The characters were sadly underdeveloped. Emelyn was NOT smart. "'That's...nice, Cobbe,' Emelyn said, still not quite understanding the significance of finding roots." Ok, Cobbe just spent a page and a half explaining to you how important it was to know how to find the roots in the winter time so you don't STARVE TO DEATH. I don't understand what's hard to understand about this concept. It's one of many times I thought that Emelyn was being deliberately dense. The other characters seemed lifeless. There were a few times that I thought Aldren showed some life, vaguely thinking he would do things differently if he weren't bound to his master, but it never amounted to anything, until it practically time for the group to part ways. I felt like every time a character was going to have a serious conversation or address a major plot point, it was just put off (e.g., Emelyn wanting to know about her parents but not asking). It seemed like page after page was simply Emelyn asking herself questions that she couldn't answer, or that were really dumb questions. 'I wonder why that happened?? Oh well, we'll never know.' When Aldren told her she had some signs of having the Art, she asks herself... 'Why did he say that?' ... ... My brain just broke. Emelyn. It's because of all the freaky stuff you've been doing without meaning to for the past twenty pages. And I have bone to pick with Corran and Emelyn seeing obviously magical creatures and then saying things like, 'Well, it looks and acts exactly like creatures of legend, but those are obviously a myth, so I'm mystified about what those things were. Huh. It's a mystery all right. Something weird is DEFINITELY going on here.' This while traveling with two magicians. FACE. PALM. So much of what happened is not explained at all. The Magisters kind of start to explain about accessing the Art through runes and concentrating and rigorous study, but Emelyn just, um, kind of wishes hard? And touches the earth? This is interesting, why isn't it explored more???
Anyway, go ahead and give it a read some rainy day, it's got potential.
Likes: The ideas in this book were interesting to me. But I just itched to scratch the whole first 3/4ths out and re-write it with some depth to it. Especially Percival, I'm so disappointed in him, he could have been really interesting. And Corran. And maybe some of the characters alluded to in the first part of the book that we never actually meet but are just told about. Or the ones we did meet and supposedly care about that are never mentioned in the resolution. And, um, Emelyn too. Dang it.
The strength in this book was in the last few chapters (although not the very last chapter), during the climatic scene. It truly fired up my imagination, the imagery and ideas were different and interesting. I loved the idea of the forest people, and the hobbit like things, and the idea of a woman having power that isn't accessed the same way as the men, and exploring that. I hope it IS explored in the next books instead of just one of the many things alluded to that are never resolved.
Didn't work for me: The characters were sadly underdeveloped. Emelyn was NOT smart. "'That's...nice, Cobbe,' Emelyn said, still not quite understanding the significance of finding roots." Ok, Cobbe just spent a page and a half explaining to you how important it was to know how to find the roots in the winter time so you don't STARVE TO DEATH. I don't understand what's hard to understand about this concept. It's one of many times I thought that Emelyn was being deliberately dense. The other characters seemed lifeless. There were a few times that I thought Aldren showed some life, vaguely thinking he would do things differently if he weren't bound to his master, but it never amounted to anything, until it practically time for the group to part ways. I felt like every time a character was going to have a serious conversation or address a major plot point, it was just put off (e.g., Emelyn wanting to know about her parents but not asking). It seemed like page after page was simply Emelyn asking herself questions that she couldn't answer, or that were really dumb questions. 'I wonder why that happened?? Oh well, we'll never know.' When Aldren told her she had some signs of having the Art, she asks herself... 'Why did he say that?' ... ... My brain just broke. Emelyn. It's because of all the freaky stuff you've been doing without meaning to for the past twenty pages. And I have bone to pick with Corran and Emelyn seeing obviously magical creatures and then saying things like, 'Well, it looks and acts exactly like creatures of legend, but those are obviously a myth, so I'm mystified about what those things were. Huh. It's a mystery all right. Something weird is DEFINITELY going on here.' This while traveling with two magicians. FACE. PALM. So much of what happened is not explained at all. The Magisters kind of start to explain about accessing the Art through runes and concentrating and rigorous study, but Emelyn just, um, kind of wishes hard? And touches the earth? This is interesting, why isn't it explored more???
Anyway, go ahead and give it a read some rainy day, it's got potential.
January 26, 2015
Find this review & more @ bookishsilvertongue
I received a review copy from Netgalley, in exchange for a honest opinion.
When the village of Fallow is attacked by a host of creatures that should only exist in myths, the unlikely team that sets out to stop the problem is made up of two Magisters, an orphaned servant girl, and a guy whose back story doesn't really add up.
As they travel North to find the root of all mayhem, Emelyn will have to face many disquieting questions.
Are the Magisters to be trusted, or is everything people say about the Order more than rumors? Could she be able to wield the Art? And most importantly, is she really just a orphaned housemaid?
It's so difficult to review books that didn't elicit any strong reaction in me.
Up until the ending, which in my opinion was really weak, I didn't have any big issues with this novel. Trouble is, I didn't have any particular praise for it either.
It was nice, in the sense I didn't actually want to drop it, but nothing more.
I think the setting had the greatest potential out of all the elements in this novel. It wasn't extraordinarily original or well-built, but it worked and had some intriguing ideas. I'm still left feeling as if it could have been explored more, which is appalling considering the plot is a quest in the wild. I think there are sequels planned though, and most of the stuff I'm curious about should be explored further there.
On the other hand, the weakest link were probably the characters. Characterization was pretty much non-existent for any of them, although it was most noticeable in the protagonist. One thing I couldn't help notice was the absolute absence of distinctive speech patterns in the main group: the servant girl and carpenter spoke exactly like the two old scholars.
I think the antagonist is the one whose lack of character I was most disappointed in. They were the usual bad fantasy villains with no purpose other than destruction, no plans or cunning, only scary because they're powerful. Now, I like these evil cardboard cut-outs made only to loom over the plot. But they need to be so almighty and pervasively evil, not a chapter passes by in which we're allowed to forget they are there, at the end of our plot, especially as we near the ending. If your villain lacks personality, they should at least have presence. This was not the case in The thirteenth tower, in fact the only terrifying manifestations of their power are in the beginning and in the final confrontation. And even if they had been a well-written villain of this kind, why reduce them to that, when they have such clear ties to the main cast? It really ruined the ending for me (beside managing to guess it from halfway in, but I'd put that down to this being a middle grade novel. And me being more familiar than it's recommended with fantasy tropes).
I feel the novel suffered badly from the poor characterization and a meandering style that needed some serious editing. The plot itself was pretty solid, although predictable, with some slight twists to the standard quest plot and no major plot-holes.
I received a review copy from Netgalley, in exchange for a honest opinion.
When the village of Fallow is attacked by a host of creatures that should only exist in myths, the unlikely team that sets out to stop the problem is made up of two Magisters, an orphaned servant girl, and a guy whose back story doesn't really add up.
As they travel North to find the root of all mayhem, Emelyn will have to face many disquieting questions.
Are the Magisters to be trusted, or is everything people say about the Order more than rumors? Could she be able to wield the Art? And most importantly, is she really just a orphaned housemaid?
It's so difficult to review books that didn't elicit any strong reaction in me.
Up until the ending, which in my opinion was really weak, I didn't have any big issues with this novel. Trouble is, I didn't have any particular praise for it either.
It was nice, in the sense I didn't actually want to drop it, but nothing more.
I think the setting had the greatest potential out of all the elements in this novel. It wasn't extraordinarily original or well-built, but it worked and had some intriguing ideas. I'm still left feeling as if it could have been explored more, which is appalling considering the plot is a quest in the wild. I think there are sequels planned though, and most of the stuff I'm curious about should be explored further there.
On the other hand, the weakest link were probably the characters. Characterization was pretty much non-existent for any of them, although it was most noticeable in the protagonist. One thing I couldn't help notice was the absolute absence of distinctive speech patterns in the main group: the servant girl and carpenter spoke exactly like the two old scholars.
I think the antagonist is the one whose lack of character I was most disappointed in. They were the usual bad fantasy villains with no purpose other than destruction, no plans or cunning, only scary because they're powerful. Now, I like these evil cardboard cut-outs made only to loom over the plot. But they need to be so almighty and pervasively evil, not a chapter passes by in which we're allowed to forget they are there, at the end of our plot, especially as we near the ending. If your villain lacks personality, they should at least have presence. This was not the case in The thirteenth tower, in fact the only terrifying manifestations of their power are in the beginning and in the final confrontation. And even if they had been a well-written villain of this kind, why reduce them to that, when they have such clear ties to the main cast? It really ruined the ending for me (beside managing to guess it from halfway in, but I'd put that down to this being a middle grade novel. And me being more familiar than it's recommended with fantasy tropes).
I feel the novel suffered badly from the poor characterization and a meandering style that needed some serious editing. The plot itself was pretty solid, although predictable, with some slight twists to the standard quest plot and no major plot-holes.
May 8, 2015
was waffling between a 3 or a 4 star book. I went with 3.5, rounded down to 3, as I didn't think it warranted a round up.
This wasn't a bad book by any stretch of the imagination. It kept me entertained and was interesting, but not until about 60% into the book.
The characters were not really fleshed out much and the plot seemed to be rather slow going. It took me a while to get into the book. Also, there was one scene that made this book more than a middle grade read. Magical creatures were dancing around, the male creatures were humanoid, with jackets and ties on, but nothing on from the waist down, with their male appendage in an upward position. It was very sudden and shocking and makes this entire book better geared toward the YA audience. It's a shame that one scene was in there, because it was an otherwise rather calm book.
I did enjoy the plot once it got started and the mystery was one that the reader and MC pieced together at roughly the same time. The MC was rather dense, but I think that comes from being an uneducated maid, though she did pride herself on being able to read, we never saw her implement that skill in the book.
The bad guys kind of surprised me and I enjoyed that twist. Though I have to say, I was all but 2% done with the book when it was time to go to bed and I put it down and went to sleep, without once wanting to know RIGHT NOW what happened next. That right there is what made this a 3 and not a 4 star book for me. If a reader can put a book down for something as trivial as sleep (sleep IS trivial when a good book is in your hot little hands) when there is only 2% left to the book, then the book didn't do it's job of hooking the reader.
Again, I received enjoyment from the book, but I don't have any overwhelming urge to read the next one in the series. I wouldn't say no to it if it crossed my path, but I'm not going to go out of my way for it.
A good fantasy book, but not for the immature reader due to that one scene in the beginning.
My thanks to NetGalley and Double Beast Publishing for an eARC copy of the book to read and review.
This wasn't a bad book by any stretch of the imagination. It kept me entertained and was interesting, but not until about 60% into the book.
The characters were not really fleshed out much and the plot seemed to be rather slow going. It took me a while to get into the book. Also, there was one scene that made this book more than a middle grade read. Magical creatures were dancing around, the male creatures were humanoid, with jackets and ties on, but nothing on from the waist down, with their male appendage in an upward position. It was very sudden and shocking and makes this entire book better geared toward the YA audience. It's a shame that one scene was in there, because it was an otherwise rather calm book.
I did enjoy the plot once it got started and the mystery was one that the reader and MC pieced together at roughly the same time. The MC was rather dense, but I think that comes from being an uneducated maid, though she did pride herself on being able to read, we never saw her implement that skill in the book.
The bad guys kind of surprised me and I enjoyed that twist. Though I have to say, I was all but 2% done with the book when it was time to go to bed and I put it down and went to sleep, without once wanting to know RIGHT NOW what happened next. That right there is what made this a 3 and not a 4 star book for me. If a reader can put a book down for something as trivial as sleep (sleep IS trivial when a good book is in your hot little hands) when there is only 2% left to the book, then the book didn't do it's job of hooking the reader.
Again, I received enjoyment from the book, but I don't have any overwhelming urge to read the next one in the series. I wouldn't say no to it if it crossed my path, but I'm not going to go out of my way for it.
A good fantasy book, but not for the immature reader due to that one scene in the beginning.
My thanks to NetGalley and Double Beast Publishing for an eARC copy of the book to read and review.
July 3, 2017
Rating: 5
I won a copy of this book for an honest review. This will never effect how I like or rate a book.
There's no denying that I am a fan of fantasy and this was some great fantasy. The only thing I can even think to say bad about it right now was the few typos I spotted but there were only maybe two that I did spot and they certainly didn't take away from what I was reading.
This was something new and extraordinary and the story lent to the feel of that. It felt very original. The writing was beautiful, it really did well in placing you in this new world. Though it helped that the world building itself was very well done. A fantasy needs a believable world and this has that.
It was also quite easy to enjoy all the characters, even the despicable ones. I especially enjoyed Cobbe. The main character while not the most heroic had a strength all her own and she was someone I could easily root for. Her journey was long but at the same time not long enough. There's just so much more story to be told here. This book ended in a great way. It left me satisfied while at the same time longing for more. Wanting a sequel to see just what would happen next.
I could continue to gush about this book all day but it's obvious to say I'd definitely recommend it. Certainly for those that love fantasy but also for those that just enjoy a well told story. This book is now a favorite of mine and I look forward to reading it again in the future.
On a last note it feels good to finally give a book I won a well deserved five stars. Makes me hopeful and again proves to me that there's a reason I judge books as hard as I do. This book proves that new and fun stories can be told, characters can feel alive and interesting, and lastly that romance doesn't have to be part of a story especially when that story is already told with so much love and care.
I won a copy of this book for an honest review. This will never effect how I like or rate a book.
There's no denying that I am a fan of fantasy and this was some great fantasy. The only thing I can even think to say bad about it right now was the few typos I spotted but there were only maybe two that I did spot and they certainly didn't take away from what I was reading.
This was something new and extraordinary and the story lent to the feel of that. It felt very original. The writing was beautiful, it really did well in placing you in this new world. Though it helped that the world building itself was very well done. A fantasy needs a believable world and this has that.
It was also quite easy to enjoy all the characters, even the despicable ones. I especially enjoyed Cobbe. The main character while not the most heroic had a strength all her own and she was someone I could easily root for. Her journey was long but at the same time not long enough. There's just so much more story to be told here. This book ended in a great way. It left me satisfied while at the same time longing for more. Wanting a sequel to see just what would happen next.
I could continue to gush about this book all day but it's obvious to say I'd definitely recommend it. Certainly for those that love fantasy but also for those that just enjoy a well told story. This book is now a favorite of mine and I look forward to reading it again in the future.
On a last note it feels good to finally give a book I won a well deserved five stars. Makes me hopeful and again proves to me that there's a reason I judge books as hard as I do. This book proves that new and fun stories can be told, characters can feel alive and interesting, and lastly that romance doesn't have to be part of a story especially when that story is already told with so much love and care.
December 17, 2014
Emelyn, abandoned at birth, is a housemaid in a quiet village. She dreams of a different life but mostly she dreams of finding her parents. On the day of a festival in her village, the townsfolk are placed under a particularly nasty spell by a group of magical creatures. Somehow, Emelyn isn’t affected but, when a creature tries to take her by force, she is rescued by a young man, Corran. When a group of Magi appear to help them, Corran is wary but when the Magi tell Emelyn they know about her parents and that they can train her in magic, she follows them.
Soon they are embarked on a perilous journey through a landscape full of magical and dangerous creatures. Emelyn’s magic seems limited to motivating a stubborn donkey; the lessons from the Magi only seem to give her a splitting headache; and Corran disappears. When one of the strange folk they encounter along the way warns her against the Magi, she decides she must seek her own fate.
The Thirteenth Tower by author Sara C. Snider reads more like a fairy tale than a modern fantasy. Even the language is evocative of one. In many ways, the story seems to harken back to those older tales about abandoned orphans and innocents, Pied Pipers, mischievous imps, dark forests full of hidden dangers and magics, and mysterious towers containing beautiful maidens. That is not to say that the story and its magical creatures are neither interesting nor unique. In fact, they are very much so. But for those like myself who grew up with fairy tales and loved them, The Thirteenth Tower is a wonderful reminder of a more innocent time when dangers lurked in the dark providing wonderful chills down the spine but safe in the knowledge that fairy tales always (well, almost always) end well.
Soon they are embarked on a perilous journey through a landscape full of magical and dangerous creatures. Emelyn’s magic seems limited to motivating a stubborn donkey; the lessons from the Magi only seem to give her a splitting headache; and Corran disappears. When one of the strange folk they encounter along the way warns her against the Magi, she decides she must seek her own fate.
The Thirteenth Tower by author Sara C. Snider reads more like a fairy tale than a modern fantasy. Even the language is evocative of one. In many ways, the story seems to harken back to those older tales about abandoned orphans and innocents, Pied Pipers, mischievous imps, dark forests full of hidden dangers and magics, and mysterious towers containing beautiful maidens. That is not to say that the story and its magical creatures are neither interesting nor unique. In fact, they are very much so. But for those like myself who grew up with fairy tales and loved them, The Thirteenth Tower is a wonderful reminder of a more innocent time when dangers lurked in the dark providing wonderful chills down the spine but safe in the knowledge that fairy tales always (well, almost always) end well.
April 19, 2015
(I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
The Thirteenth Tower is about Emelyn, an orphan who works as a servant in a small village. A festival is starting the day the story begins, and Emelyn is looking forward to finishing her chores so she can attend. While she's working, she hears music nearby and goes to investigate. What she finds leads her on a long journey to discover herself and her past.
It doesn't take long for the plot to move forward, and I was instantly drawn into the story. It got a bit slow in the middle, as Emelyn and her companions were mostly just walking through the woods, occasionally running into something strange or dangerous. It picked up again near the end, and the final confrontation was well-written and more exciting than the previous few chapters.
Thought I had an inkling of how things would ultimately turn out, I was still interested to find out exactly what would happen. I felt a few things could have been fleshed out a little more, but hopefully this is going to be a series, so maybe those small things will be explored a little more in future books.
There also wasn't much character development, which is a shame. Emelyn, especially, had so much room to grow on the journey, and it was only at the very end that she showed any change at all.
The Thirteenth Tower is a fairly clean (only one very small scene at the beginning), middle-grade fantasy, with creative world building and an interesting plot.
The Thirteenth Tower is about Emelyn, an orphan who works as a servant in a small village. A festival is starting the day the story begins, and Emelyn is looking forward to finishing her chores so she can attend. While she's working, she hears music nearby and goes to investigate. What she finds leads her on a long journey to discover herself and her past.
It doesn't take long for the plot to move forward, and I was instantly drawn into the story. It got a bit slow in the middle, as Emelyn and her companions were mostly just walking through the woods, occasionally running into something strange or dangerous. It picked up again near the end, and the final confrontation was well-written and more exciting than the previous few chapters.
Thought I had an inkling of how things would ultimately turn out, I was still interested to find out exactly what would happen. I felt a few things could have been fleshed out a little more, but hopefully this is going to be a series, so maybe those small things will be explored a little more in future books.
There also wasn't much character development, which is a shame. Emelyn, especially, had so much room to grow on the journey, and it was only at the very end that she showed any change at all.
The Thirteenth Tower is a fairly clean (only one very small scene at the beginning), middle-grade fantasy, with creative world building and an interesting plot.
January 12, 2015
I received this eBook via Netgalley for my review.
To start, this book is an odd mix of fantasy. A fun read if a teeny bit predictable, for me anyway. But I nearly gave up on this book in the second chapter. Why, why, why add the erotic symbolism when it is the only incident and gives no form or other meaning and seems really out of place other than to bring shock factor? Truthfully, everything around this single sentence had enough weirdness going on it was unnecessary to add the erotic description of the male dancers. Had the book continued with this genre... OK, an adult fantasy. But 98% of this story reads as if inclined for a more youthful audience. This would be a fun, delightful, eery read for 13 - 15 year old youth and up if not for the one single sentence.
There is definitely adventure, magic and mages, folk earth magic, orphaned or abandoned child, festival, kindness of strangers, very eery weird creatures and some sweet quirky loveable or at least likeable creatures too, travel by foot - mule - and a pig, a journey, apparitions, learning new skills, learning to live outside ones comfort zone, cruelty, vengeance and repentance, searching for the hearts desire, fearing ones own abilities, overcoming fear. There is a lot going on here and I would have loved to buy this for my niece, she would have lost herself in this tale. But sadly, I cannot because of a single sentence.
To start, this book is an odd mix of fantasy. A fun read if a teeny bit predictable, for me anyway. But I nearly gave up on this book in the second chapter. Why, why, why add the erotic symbolism when it is the only incident and gives no form or other meaning and seems really out of place other than to bring shock factor? Truthfully, everything around this single sentence had enough weirdness going on it was unnecessary to add the erotic description of the male dancers. Had the book continued with this genre... OK, an adult fantasy. But 98% of this story reads as if inclined for a more youthful audience. This would be a fun, delightful, eery read for 13 - 15 year old youth and up if not for the one single sentence.
There is definitely adventure, magic and mages, folk earth magic, orphaned or abandoned child, festival, kindness of strangers, very eery weird creatures and some sweet quirky loveable or at least likeable creatures too, travel by foot - mule - and a pig, a journey, apparitions, learning new skills, learning to live outside ones comfort zone, cruelty, vengeance and repentance, searching for the hearts desire, fearing ones own abilities, overcoming fear. There is a lot going on here and I would have loved to buy this for my niece, she would have lost herself in this tale. But sadly, I cannot because of a single sentence.
October 7, 2014
The Thirteenth Tower by Sara C. Snider
Book Description: Abandoned as a baby, young Emelyn's life as a housemaid in the quiet village of Fallow is unremarkable—and empty. That is, until a host of magical creatures arrives and inflicts terrible misdeeds on the townsfolk. Inexplicably immune to their enchantments, Emelyn joins a pair of Magi intent on stopping the cause of the trouble—and who claim to know of her parents, promising Emelyn answers to a lifetime of questions.
This is a fantasy novel that was OK; there were parts that were interesting and parts that were slow. For the most part, none of the characters captured any deep interest.
In a way, I guess it is something like a traditional fairy tale in which the characters have little depth or personality. Emelyn tried to come off the page, but even she could not maintain a strong presence. It isn't listed as YA, but should be. Some YA books, the very best of them, appeal to all ages, but this one didn't truly satisfy me. Not bad, but not completely engaging.
As usual, please note that my reviews are not literary criticism, but merely my opinion of a book. I notice at Goodreads, several people gave it 5 stars.
NetGalley/Double Beast Publishing
Fantasy/YA. 2014. Print length: 251 pages.
Book Description: Abandoned as a baby, young Emelyn's life as a housemaid in the quiet village of Fallow is unremarkable—and empty. That is, until a host of magical creatures arrives and inflicts terrible misdeeds on the townsfolk. Inexplicably immune to their enchantments, Emelyn joins a pair of Magi intent on stopping the cause of the trouble—and who claim to know of her parents, promising Emelyn answers to a lifetime of questions.
This is a fantasy novel that was OK; there were parts that were interesting and parts that were slow. For the most part, none of the characters captured any deep interest.
In a way, I guess it is something like a traditional fairy tale in which the characters have little depth or personality. Emelyn tried to come off the page, but even she could not maintain a strong presence. It isn't listed as YA, but should be. Some YA books, the very best of them, appeal to all ages, but this one didn't truly satisfy me. Not bad, but not completely engaging.
As usual, please note that my reviews are not literary criticism, but merely my opinion of a book. I notice at Goodreads, several people gave it 5 stars.
NetGalley/Double Beast Publishing
Fantasy/YA. 2014. Print length: 251 pages.
June 6, 2016
Fans of classic fairy tales, and I mean dark tales, Brothers Grimm, will enjoy this well written hero's journey. The storytelling is solid, the settings lush and immersive. Each chapter ends leaving you wondering if you have enough time for just one more, you've got to know what happened! I hope there's a sequel...
November 29, 2014
This book was really hard to follow but I did manage to finish it. I wasn't really thrilled with it, wasn't my cup of tea I guess.
April 12, 2016
https://anaslair.wordpress.com/2015/0...
Premise:
Emelyn is a 17 year old house servant who never knew her real parents.
When strange things start happening in her town, the only place she ever knew, and two magisters promise her the answers she always longed for, she agrees to follow them on a wondrous, dangerous adventure, which will change her forever.
Review:
The narrative starts with a Cinderella sort of feel. We find out that Emelyn always has a bunch of chores to do and she has to do them quickly, but this day is even more important, because there is an amazing, much yearned for festival taking place that night, and she really wants to go, but only if she can finish in time.
Then that first chapter ends with a sort of piper of Hamelin feel and I was hooked.
Emelyn is not your average main character. She is a house servant who is resigned to her fate; she says please and curtsies and is always very polite; minds her own business, even when she is curious; she performs her tasks with zeal. Her only regret is that she never knew her parents. She was left on the doorstep of the house where she has worked since age 10. But she is not your typical rebellious teen and that, for me, was very refreshing. She is actually very appreciative of what she has, because she recognizes others are much worse off than her, and takes comfort in knowing she is very good at what she does.
Those first two chapters were so good that the rest of the adventure did not quite live up. Up until that point, it was totally a 5 star book and I had not a single complaint. You see, the way Emelyn is taken out of her world, a world she doesn't even dislike per se - it's her home and she is appreciative of it - and is then introduced to magical creatures is done very, very craftily. The author really has a way with words. She does a brilliant job at showing instead of telling and that is something that has been lacking in my reads for a very long time.
Don't get me wrong, I was still quite gripped by the narrative most of the way. I am not quite sure how the author did it, but I managed to feel like I was in the story without extensive descriptions of the scenario or the characters. I found the imagery quite vivid, and it didn't take many words for that to happen.
The dialogues were very realistic, contributed to me wanting to know what came next and kept me on edge about what was going on - who was good or bad, what their intentions were. At first you may not care much for the characters, particularly the secondary ones, because they feel somewhat bland and there is quite a lot of secrecy going on. But as the story progresses, you find out why they acted the way they did, why they said certain things, and they gain a whole new dimension.
Emelyn really grew on me. She was actually a bit slow at first, but mostly not for lack of wits, only because she was really reluctant to believe what was happening, especially with people around her saying it was all product of fairy tales and could not be real. I found that plausible instead of annoying, that she was wary to believe things that made no sense but at the same time tried to make sense of her new reality.
I love that Emelyn was actually weak at times. She was a house servant not so long ago! One does not develop an insane amount of courage overnight. Yes, some people would prefer that she had more mojo, but I for one found this, again, completely believable, which won me over.
She had no desire to go off with anyone; she just wanted everything to return to normal.
That would have totally been my reaction too. Going on an adventure sounds all nice and dandy when I am imagining it, but I would never do it if the opportunity arose. I for one really took to such a responsible character and couldn't help but grow very fond of her.
The things that made me lower the rating down from the full 5 stars were the following:
Firstly, the fact that I saw the plot twist, or rather who Emelyn's parents were, way too early. I knew who her father was in their first conversation, when he said she reminded him of his wife (duh) and from then on it wasn't hard to guess who her mother was. The way we were presented to it was very well achieved, but that does not erase the fact that I figured it out way too early in the book, as well as other smaller things, and kept expecting the main character to get it as well.
I also wished that the story had been paced quicker at times. By condensing some things they would have had more impact.
And I felt that little details could have added to the story, given it a bit more density. For instance, when Emelyn first sleeps in a bed at an inn, there could have been a reference to how different it was to sleeping on a pallet all her life, a brief description of how heavenly it must have felt to her.
Some expressions I found a bit repetitive, like looked at X askance or if (...), he showed no sign of it.
I also thought that if she is such a polite girl she should have offered some chocolate to Corran; after all, he gave it to her.
Conclusion:
I have to admit this book caught me by surprise. Judging by the cover and premise, I thought it would be another fantasy book aimed mostly at young teens, but it was actually a very mature, well crafted fantasy read and I can honestly say that overall this was one of the best fantasy books I have read in a long time.
One other of my absolutely favourite things was that there was no romance in this book. Emelyn meets at least two young men who I imagine are pretty close to her age and guess what? She does not fall head over heels with either of them. She is a mature, respectful young woman, who is happy enough to develop a meaningful friendship.
The author manages to create truly unique things here.
First of all, the magic isn't obvious and linear, which was completely new to me. Different people can use it in different ways.
Then, the the magical creatures. My favourite were definitely the Wylkins (oh, that Cobbe... loved her passionately!!), and I trust we will know more about the Forest People in the sequel. That concept intrigues me a lot, as well as the Magisters. They are the perfect example of semi good intentions done in a very bad way. I loved the moral that the ends do not justify the means.
An author can utterly conquer me by creating characters who are not necessarily good or bad, and this was very well achieved here. I particularly rooted for Aldren all the way, and let's not forget the 'villain' of the story.
There's plenty of things in the book which will take you by surprise. If not for real life conditioning my reading time, I would have devoured it in one go. I am very intrigued to see what comes next in the series.
I thoroughly recommend The Thirteenth Tower. Read it if you are looking for a breath of fresh air in the world of fantasy literature. It is well worth your time.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Premise:
Emelyn is a 17 year old house servant who never knew her real parents.
When strange things start happening in her town, the only place she ever knew, and two magisters promise her the answers she always longed for, she agrees to follow them on a wondrous, dangerous adventure, which will change her forever.
Review:
The narrative starts with a Cinderella sort of feel. We find out that Emelyn always has a bunch of chores to do and she has to do them quickly, but this day is even more important, because there is an amazing, much yearned for festival taking place that night, and she really wants to go, but only if she can finish in time.
Then that first chapter ends with a sort of piper of Hamelin feel and I was hooked.
Emelyn is not your average main character. She is a house servant who is resigned to her fate; she says please and curtsies and is always very polite; minds her own business, even when she is curious; she performs her tasks with zeal. Her only regret is that she never knew her parents. She was left on the doorstep of the house where she has worked since age 10. But she is not your typical rebellious teen and that, for me, was very refreshing. She is actually very appreciative of what she has, because she recognizes others are much worse off than her, and takes comfort in knowing she is very good at what she does.
Those first two chapters were so good that the rest of the adventure did not quite live up. Up until that point, it was totally a 5 star book and I had not a single complaint. You see, the way Emelyn is taken out of her world, a world she doesn't even dislike per se - it's her home and she is appreciative of it - and is then introduced to magical creatures is done very, very craftily. The author really has a way with words. She does a brilliant job at showing instead of telling and that is something that has been lacking in my reads for a very long time.
Don't get me wrong, I was still quite gripped by the narrative most of the way. I am not quite sure how the author did it, but I managed to feel like I was in the story without extensive descriptions of the scenario or the characters. I found the imagery quite vivid, and it didn't take many words for that to happen.
The dialogues were very realistic, contributed to me wanting to know what came next and kept me on edge about what was going on - who was good or bad, what their intentions were. At first you may not care much for the characters, particularly the secondary ones, because they feel somewhat bland and there is quite a lot of secrecy going on. But as the story progresses, you find out why they acted the way they did, why they said certain things, and they gain a whole new dimension.
Emelyn really grew on me. She was actually a bit slow at first, but mostly not for lack of wits, only because she was really reluctant to believe what was happening, especially with people around her saying it was all product of fairy tales and could not be real. I found that plausible instead of annoying, that she was wary to believe things that made no sense but at the same time tried to make sense of her new reality.
I love that Emelyn was actually weak at times. She was a house servant not so long ago! One does not develop an insane amount of courage overnight. Yes, some people would prefer that she had more mojo, but I for one found this, again, completely believable, which won me over.
She had no desire to go off with anyone; she just wanted everything to return to normal.
That would have totally been my reaction too. Going on an adventure sounds all nice and dandy when I am imagining it, but I would never do it if the opportunity arose. I for one really took to such a responsible character and couldn't help but grow very fond of her.
The things that made me lower the rating down from the full 5 stars were the following:
Firstly, the fact that I saw the plot twist, or rather who Emelyn's parents were, way too early. I knew who her father was in their first conversation, when he said she reminded him of his wife (duh) and from then on it wasn't hard to guess who her mother was. The way we were presented to it was very well achieved, but that does not erase the fact that I figured it out way too early in the book, as well as other smaller things, and kept expecting the main character to get it as well.
I also wished that the story had been paced quicker at times. By condensing some things they would have had more impact.
And I felt that little details could have added to the story, given it a bit more density. For instance, when Emelyn first sleeps in a bed at an inn, there could have been a reference to how different it was to sleeping on a pallet all her life, a brief description of how heavenly it must have felt to her.
Some expressions I found a bit repetitive, like looked at X askance or if (...), he showed no sign of it.
I also thought that if she is such a polite girl she should have offered some chocolate to Corran; after all, he gave it to her.
Conclusion:
I have to admit this book caught me by surprise. Judging by the cover and premise, I thought it would be another fantasy book aimed mostly at young teens, but it was actually a very mature, well crafted fantasy read and I can honestly say that overall this was one of the best fantasy books I have read in a long time.
One other of my absolutely favourite things was that there was no romance in this book. Emelyn meets at least two young men who I imagine are pretty close to her age and guess what? She does not fall head over heels with either of them. She is a mature, respectful young woman, who is happy enough to develop a meaningful friendship.
The author manages to create truly unique things here.
First of all, the magic isn't obvious and linear, which was completely new to me. Different people can use it in different ways.
Then, the the magical creatures. My favourite were definitely the Wylkins (oh, that Cobbe... loved her passionately!!), and I trust we will know more about the Forest People in the sequel. That concept intrigues me a lot, as well as the Magisters. They are the perfect example of semi good intentions done in a very bad way. I loved the moral that the ends do not justify the means.
An author can utterly conquer me by creating characters who are not necessarily good or bad, and this was very well achieved here. I particularly rooted for Aldren all the way, and let's not forget the 'villain' of the story.
There's plenty of things in the book which will take you by surprise. If not for real life conditioning my reading time, I would have devoured it in one go. I am very intrigued to see what comes next in the series.
I thoroughly recommend The Thirteenth Tower. Read it if you are looking for a breath of fresh air in the world of fantasy literature. It is well worth your time.
Disclaimer: I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 19, 2023
Emelyn is an orphan who was left on the doorstep of a house in a small village and raised by the cook, and although she doesn't have a horrible life, the monotony of her days has her wishing for some excitement. This book is a case study in being careful what you wish for. Emelyn gets her excitement, and much more.
I really enjoyed the world building here, as well as all the different creatures that Emelyn and her fellow travelers encountered along the way. They were very creatively written. The story itself was also very interesting and kept my attention all the way through. I look forward to reading book 2 to see where the story goes from here.
5/5 stars.
I really enjoyed the world building here, as well as all the different creatures that Emelyn and her fellow travelers encountered along the way. They were very creatively written. The story itself was also very interesting and kept my attention all the way through. I look forward to reading book 2 to see where the story goes from here.
5/5 stars.
May 16, 2017
I thought this book had great promise when I started it and read avidly every word. I really liked young Emelyn and wanted to know more about her and why she ended up where she did in a small village as a maid. I followed her as she travelled, but somewhere I lost interest. I wanted to find out what happened, but to me the story seemed to move so slow and I found myself skipping great hunks of text just to get to the end. I am probably the only one who found this to be true so, if you are interested in the book's description, go ahead and give it a try.
January 2, 2020
The Thirteenth Tower
Being a bullied victim this story pulled on my empathy and the author writes this like one who understands the feelings.
Being a bullied victim this story pulled on my empathy and the author writes this like one who understands the feelings.
May 17, 2015
I received this book from the First Reads competitions, thank you Sara for the copy.
Now to business! The Thirteenth Tower is an incredible book; you are not prepared to enjoy it as much as you will. Upon receiving this book I sceptically observed it with mild interest before placing it on my bookshelf and sparing it a couple of curious glances . . . and when the time came for me to read it I was shocked with how much I loved it. *Eeek!* The book is set in a magically tainted world and we follow the struggle of a journey Emelyn takes after her town, Fallow, is afflicted by the magic of a “creature”. She is a serving girl and always wonders why exactly her parents left her on the door step of the mansion she serves in. Do they love me? Are they alive?? Why didn’t they WANT me?!? *Cries*. Ahem. So a magical music playing person comes along and hypnotises the town, and, now weirdly zombified, the people follow and begin crazed dancing and joyous laughing in the town centre. Except Emelyn isn’t affected . . . whaat? She wanders aimlessly around the town not understanding a thing that’s going on. A goblin grabs her arm and sneeringly drags her towards the raucous gathering (there’s some preetty kinky stuff going on) BUT! Corran, a mysterious heroic male with a stick, thwacks the little creature on the head and they run off with some Magisters (magic folk) to begin this journey. Whew.
So, do I still need to read the book after all that?
Yes. Yes you do. That happens in the first few chapters, the rest of the book is far more exciting. Emelyn has followed the Magisters after they promised to tell her about her parents (whom they claim to know). And her options were, a) stay with the crazy dancing people, or, b) follow in the hopes of answering your life’s questions. Simple choice, right? The journey they undertake is great. Snider has done a fabulous job of mixing fantasy with historical settings and going for a reasonably original setting. Corran is a strange character who insists he apprenticed with the Fallow carpenter . . .but the carpenter hasn’t taken any apprentices for 20 years! It’s not possible! (Corran is young here). Alas, they stop fretting and move on from the peculiarities of Corran’s life (but dear reader, do not forget this crucial point; something is definitely up with Corran). The book is, essentially, about Emelyn discovering herself and learning more about the world (you know, aside from plucking chickens and making beds). The plot line is wicked and there are some brilliantly brilliant creatures we meet along the way called Wylkins. Look out for those.
Is the whole magic theme overdone?
It’s not over done at all. Despite the increasing Magic Market of books this does not disappoint. There’s not wand-waving or dragons, or gargoyles that sing, or talking frogs (you get the picture). In fact, the magic is pretty tame. The Magisters themselves (aside from being slightly odd) are trained in “the Art”. And the other type of magic that crops up is more a manipulation of natural forces than any Harry Potter shenanigans.
Summary
So this book is pretty amazing and I highly recommend it to anyone. Note: perhaps not suitable to younger audiences (there are some strange “adult” themes). All in all, there’s not a lot to fault this book with. The ending is intense if a little strange but it’s definitely worth the read. It all ties together nicely and there’s some satisfying twists and turns in the plot and some curious but wonderful creatures. So, if you’re looking for a good, new read, I present to you, The Thirteenth Tower.
Now to business! The Thirteenth Tower is an incredible book; you are not prepared to enjoy it as much as you will. Upon receiving this book I sceptically observed it with mild interest before placing it on my bookshelf and sparing it a couple of curious glances . . . and when the time came for me to read it I was shocked with how much I loved it. *Eeek!* The book is set in a magically tainted world and we follow the struggle of a journey Emelyn takes after her town, Fallow, is afflicted by the magic of a “creature”. She is a serving girl and always wonders why exactly her parents left her on the door step of the mansion she serves in. Do they love me? Are they alive?? Why didn’t they WANT me?!? *Cries*. Ahem. So a magical music playing person comes along and hypnotises the town, and, now weirdly zombified, the people follow and begin crazed dancing and joyous laughing in the town centre. Except Emelyn isn’t affected . . . whaat? She wanders aimlessly around the town not understanding a thing that’s going on. A goblin grabs her arm and sneeringly drags her towards the raucous gathering (there’s some preetty kinky stuff going on) BUT! Corran, a mysterious heroic male with a stick, thwacks the little creature on the head and they run off with some Magisters (magic folk) to begin this journey. Whew.
So, do I still need to read the book after all that?
Yes. Yes you do. That happens in the first few chapters, the rest of the book is far more exciting. Emelyn has followed the Magisters after they promised to tell her about her parents (whom they claim to know). And her options were, a) stay with the crazy dancing people, or, b) follow in the hopes of answering your life’s questions. Simple choice, right? The journey they undertake is great. Snider has done a fabulous job of mixing fantasy with historical settings and going for a reasonably original setting. Corran is a strange character who insists he apprenticed with the Fallow carpenter . . .but the carpenter hasn’t taken any apprentices for 20 years! It’s not possible! (Corran is young here). Alas, they stop fretting and move on from the peculiarities of Corran’s life (but dear reader, do not forget this crucial point; something is definitely up with Corran). The book is, essentially, about Emelyn discovering herself and learning more about the world (you know, aside from plucking chickens and making beds). The plot line is wicked and there are some brilliantly brilliant creatures we meet along the way called Wylkins. Look out for those.
Is the whole magic theme overdone?
It’s not over done at all. Despite the increasing Magic Market of books this does not disappoint. There’s not wand-waving or dragons, or gargoyles that sing, or talking frogs (you get the picture). In fact, the magic is pretty tame. The Magisters themselves (aside from being slightly odd) are trained in “the Art”. And the other type of magic that crops up is more a manipulation of natural forces than any Harry Potter shenanigans.
Summary
So this book is pretty amazing and I highly recommend it to anyone. Note: perhaps not suitable to younger audiences (there are some strange “adult” themes). All in all, there’s not a lot to fault this book with. The ending is intense if a little strange but it’s definitely worth the read. It all ties together nicely and there’s some satisfying twists and turns in the plot and some curious but wonderful creatures. So, if you’re looking for a good, new read, I present to you, The Thirteenth Tower.
May 13, 2014
Reviewed for Readers Favorite
In a medieval time period of manor houses and servants, of travel by walking and visiting troops of entertainers that created a festival in town, we are introduced to Emelyn. Emelyn has the unique history in town has the baby that was left on the doorstep of the manor house and they allowed the housekeeper to raise the baby and she became a servant girl. Everywhere she goes she see's pity in the eyes of some, promise in the eyes of a few but no real hope for her in the town of Fallow. Just outside of town is a large tower, this is the home of the Magistrates, of Magi what they really do is unknown to most and Emelyn knows even less about them, but as she is on an errand the morning of the village festival she sees two of them walking past the manor house. The evening of the festival becomes strange and unsettling, a young man Corran befriends Emelyn and rescues her from a dance which everyone seems entranced in but her. The Magi come and offer her escape, and she and Corran follow. The Thirteenth Tower follows Emelyn and Corran on this journey, which will become on of self-discovery for Emelyn. Sara C. Snider does a wonderful job of wrapping a message into a neat package of a story.
The Thirteenth Tower is about the Magi towers, but it is also about discovery. Emelyn will discover who she really is on this journey, what she is capable of where she wants to go with her life. She will face fears and challenges that she never expected and find truths that she never imagined. This is not only about Emelyn, but we learn about the Magi, about two in particular Percival and Aldren, two completely different men. One willing to go to any lengths necessary to gain knowledge no matter the cost, the other determined not to repeat his own mistakes. Sara C. Snider not only gives us a story on the growth and development of a little girl, but on the corruption that power and absolute knowledge can also bring. Humanity is the balance and it must always be weighed when counting the costs of gaining knowledge. This is a great book for young adults and older readers as well. It has a theme and story that should entertain and well as educate readers.
In a medieval time period of manor houses and servants, of travel by walking and visiting troops of entertainers that created a festival in town, we are introduced to Emelyn. Emelyn has the unique history in town has the baby that was left on the doorstep of the manor house and they allowed the housekeeper to raise the baby and she became a servant girl. Everywhere she goes she see's pity in the eyes of some, promise in the eyes of a few but no real hope for her in the town of Fallow. Just outside of town is a large tower, this is the home of the Magistrates, of Magi what they really do is unknown to most and Emelyn knows even less about them, but as she is on an errand the morning of the village festival she sees two of them walking past the manor house. The evening of the festival becomes strange and unsettling, a young man Corran befriends Emelyn and rescues her from a dance which everyone seems entranced in but her. The Magi come and offer her escape, and she and Corran follow. The Thirteenth Tower follows Emelyn and Corran on this journey, which will become on of self-discovery for Emelyn. Sara C. Snider does a wonderful job of wrapping a message into a neat package of a story.
The Thirteenth Tower is about the Magi towers, but it is also about discovery. Emelyn will discover who she really is on this journey, what she is capable of where she wants to go with her life. She will face fears and challenges that she never expected and find truths that she never imagined. This is not only about Emelyn, but we learn about the Magi, about two in particular Percival and Aldren, two completely different men. One willing to go to any lengths necessary to gain knowledge no matter the cost, the other determined not to repeat his own mistakes. Sara C. Snider not only gives us a story on the growth and development of a little girl, but on the corruption that power and absolute knowledge can also bring. Humanity is the balance and it must always be weighed when counting the costs of gaining knowledge. This is a great book for young adults and older readers as well. It has a theme and story that should entertain and well as educate readers.
October 21, 2014
Emelyn is a young orphan, abandoned as an infant at the doorstep of a fairly well to do family in a small village. She is raised, not unkindly but without love, in this household as a servant. She is lonely and longs to know more about the family she will likely never meet.
But the sameness of her days changes suddenly when a pied piper-type of musician comes fiddling down the lane, hypnotizing all the villagers into following. Emelyn seems to be the only one who is not under the spell, but she goes along at the insistence of her only friend, a fellow servant girl. Emelyn realizes that something is terribly wrong and that some of those at the festival are not human at all. When one of the strange creatures grabs her in a threatening way, she is surprised and relieved that a stranger strikes the imp with a club, continuing to swing it til the other imps left standing skulk off into the night.
The stranger, a young man named Corran, introduces himself. He has come to the town at the time of the festival seeking work. He and Emelyn join forces with two Magisters, seemingly superior humans with some magical powers of their own. With the town's population now having disappeared there seems no choice but to travel with the Magi, who are going north to try to weaken whatever power is sending the strange creatures into the civilized towns. The Magi note that Emelyn is not bewitched by the strange creatures and intimate that they know her parents and can help her reconnect.
There is good and evil in this world, but the evil is not well defined, or at least it's a little too nuanced for me. Though the two Magi are mysterious, even ominous, they don't try to destroy her. They even attempt to teach her their own style of magic, as they sense that she has latent and untapped powers that she doesn't know how to use. In the end we see them use their power against her parents, but they explain that they had thought it was for a higher purpose.
I expect that there will be a sequel or two where Emelyn's powers will be unleashed and hopefully harnessed for good purposes. This book lays the groundwork for a brighter future, but for now she remains on her own.
I got an e-copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley.
But the sameness of her days changes suddenly when a pied piper-type of musician comes fiddling down the lane, hypnotizing all the villagers into following. Emelyn seems to be the only one who is not under the spell, but she goes along at the insistence of her only friend, a fellow servant girl. Emelyn realizes that something is terribly wrong and that some of those at the festival are not human at all. When one of the strange creatures grabs her in a threatening way, she is surprised and relieved that a stranger strikes the imp with a club, continuing to swing it til the other imps left standing skulk off into the night.
The stranger, a young man named Corran, introduces himself. He has come to the town at the time of the festival seeking work. He and Emelyn join forces with two Magisters, seemingly superior humans with some magical powers of their own. With the town's population now having disappeared there seems no choice but to travel with the Magi, who are going north to try to weaken whatever power is sending the strange creatures into the civilized towns. The Magi note that Emelyn is not bewitched by the strange creatures and intimate that they know her parents and can help her reconnect.
There is good and evil in this world, but the evil is not well defined, or at least it's a little too nuanced for me. Though the two Magi are mysterious, even ominous, they don't try to destroy her. They even attempt to teach her their own style of magic, as they sense that she has latent and untapped powers that she doesn't know how to use. In the end we see them use their power against her parents, but they explain that they had thought it was for a higher purpose.
I expect that there will be a sequel or two where Emelyn's powers will be unleashed and hopefully harnessed for good purposes. This book lays the groundwork for a brighter future, but for now she remains on her own.
I got an e-copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley.
October 8, 2014
This week I had the opportunity to delve into Sara C.Snider's new book The Thirteenth Tower.
As an orphaned servant girl Emelyn has few prospects in life and hasn't planned much beyond the chores that would allow her to attend this year's festival in the village. However, when strangers overpower her village, leaving herself, a stranger apprentice, and two magisters unaffected Emelyn finds herself caught up in a delicate journey between forces that could lead to her destiny or her unraveling.
I enjoyed Snider's offering. Emelyn was a character I could easily identify with and support in her journey to unravel the truth that was hidden all around her. Cobbe and her pig, though not as relatable were a great addition and showed the contrast in character styles that Snyder is able to infuse with life throughout her pages.
I also enjoyed Snider's use of the world's mythology in order to drive the story along. Although this, along with certain storytelling techniques, did allow for major plot points to be guessed fairly early in the story the character and charm won me over and continued to hold my interest.
I also enjoyed the villains in this story, the back story, the emotions and reasoning given to major decisions. However, I cannot think of a single way to explain more without giving away to much of the story so I'll content myself to leave it there ;)
My biggest disappointment was that the book feels like a solid set up for a series or, at the very least, opens it up for a good sequel to explore the events that followed the climax of this book. No sign of any second offering could I find online though. Hopefully this is something that can be rectified in the future though.
For fans of fantasy and classic fairy tales, Snider offers a wonderful new offering to this genre.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received this book from NetGallery in exchange for my honest opinion.
As an orphaned servant girl Emelyn has few prospects in life and hasn't planned much beyond the chores that would allow her to attend this year's festival in the village. However, when strangers overpower her village, leaving herself, a stranger apprentice, and two magisters unaffected Emelyn finds herself caught up in a delicate journey between forces that could lead to her destiny or her unraveling.
I enjoyed Snider's offering. Emelyn was a character I could easily identify with and support in her journey to unravel the truth that was hidden all around her. Cobbe and her pig, though not as relatable were a great addition and showed the contrast in character styles that Snyder is able to infuse with life throughout her pages.
I also enjoyed Snider's use of the world's mythology in order to drive the story along. Although this, along with certain storytelling techniques, did allow for major plot points to be guessed fairly early in the story the character and charm won me over and continued to hold my interest.
I also enjoyed the villains in this story, the back story, the emotions and reasoning given to major decisions. However, I cannot think of a single way to explain more without giving away to much of the story so I'll content myself to leave it there ;)
My biggest disappointment was that the book feels like a solid set up for a series or, at the very least, opens it up for a good sequel to explore the events that followed the climax of this book. No sign of any second offering could I find online though. Hopefully this is something that can be rectified in the future though.
For fans of fantasy and classic fairy tales, Snider offers a wonderful new offering to this genre.
4 out of 5 stars.
I received this book from NetGallery in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 16, 2014
This ARC was provided by NetGalley and Double Beast Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about Emelyn, a housemaid in the quiet town of Fallow who was abandoned as a baby. On the night of the grand festival, terrible creatures arrive and the entire village is taken over. Unfortunately no one seems to notice except Emelyn. With this, arrive the Magi. Powerful men of the Art who use magic in conjunction with the forces of nature. More and more creatures seem to be popping up around towns, and the Magi have come to stop them. Emelyn is enticed to come along with them, partly for her immunity and also with the promise of discovering what happened to her parents.
As they source out the origin of this mischievous magic, they gain another traveler, Corran. As soon as he arrived I expected a love story to bloom. This wasn't the case and I found it refreshing that this young man could care for Emelyn and desire to help her without any romantic insinuations. In fact, Corran is still grieving the loss of his wife.
While I was immediately taken in by Emelyn and the plot, the first half of the book is slower than the last. This isn't a bad thing, Snider is introducing to us her magical world and all the creatures who live in it. My honest to goodness favourite part is when the party comes across a forrest area home to Wlykin (tiny human like beings who are amazing cooks and insanely dirty --- ahem, a Hobbit). As I said, I did like Emelyn, but I found her to be a background character at times, I wanted her to react to things more deeply, or even to react at all. She remains passive even as twists and surprises emerge in the story that I was totally taken aback by. (While in hindsight a couple seemed a bit obvious, I was so absorbed I wasn't actively trying to puzzle this one out)
I really enjoyed this book and now that we have a foundation for the world and for Emelyn, I'm excited to see what the next book will bring.
This book is about Emelyn, a housemaid in the quiet town of Fallow who was abandoned as a baby. On the night of the grand festival, terrible creatures arrive and the entire village is taken over. Unfortunately no one seems to notice except Emelyn. With this, arrive the Magi. Powerful men of the Art who use magic in conjunction with the forces of nature. More and more creatures seem to be popping up around towns, and the Magi have come to stop them. Emelyn is enticed to come along with them, partly for her immunity and also with the promise of discovering what happened to her parents.
As they source out the origin of this mischievous magic, they gain another traveler, Corran. As soon as he arrived I expected a love story to bloom. This wasn't the case and I found it refreshing that this young man could care for Emelyn and desire to help her without any romantic insinuations. In fact, Corran is still grieving the loss of his wife.
While I was immediately taken in by Emelyn and the plot, the first half of the book is slower than the last. This isn't a bad thing, Snider is introducing to us her magical world and all the creatures who live in it. My honest to goodness favourite part is when the party comes across a forrest area home to Wlykin (tiny human like beings who are amazing cooks and insanely dirty --- ahem, a Hobbit). As I said, I did like Emelyn, but I found her to be a background character at times, I wanted her to react to things more deeply, or even to react at all. She remains passive even as twists and surprises emerge in the story that I was totally taken aback by. (While in hindsight a couple seemed a bit obvious, I was so absorbed I wasn't actively trying to puzzle this one out)
I really enjoyed this book and now that we have a foundation for the world and for Emelyn, I'm excited to see what the next book will bring.
November 18, 2014
Note: I received a NetGalley affiliated free copy of The Thirteenth Tower by Sara Snider earlier in the year (though I'm a little confused because even when I got it a few months ago it wouldn't have been an advanced copy and I'm used to having advanced copies but oh well, moving on).
I went into this book having read the blurb about it quite some time go. I remembered there was a female as a main character and that the story was about magic. What I had forgotten, and quickly found out while I was reading, was that The Thirteenth Tower was very much a "discovery of self" "coming of age" type of novel. Only coming of age with magic, which is always something I find interesting.
The story is about Emelyn, a supposedly orphaned housemaid from the village of Fallow. Throughout the story she travels far and wide and discovers quite a bit about herself, magic, and the world around her. And boy is it an interesting tale of travel.
I loved The Thirteenth Tower. The writing was tight and interesting. The characters were fairly well-developed and it kept me on my toes, especially as to what exactly a few of the characters were up to throughout the novel.
And, even better, the story ended very nicely. It tied up enough strings to feel like a complete story but enough was left open that I could see Snider deciding to make it the first of a series if she so chose.
The only complaint I had was that some of the scenes with magic may have been handled a little better. I've read plenty of fantasy/magic stories and magic is something that can be hard to describe and that seemed like the case here. Descriptions of how the magic in this world works were long winded and slightly confusing. The magic battle at the end was VERY confusing.
But I still enjoyed what was going on. So as long as you're not afraid to be a little confused (because even if you do get confused, by the end of it you will know what happened) it's definitely a worthwhile read for fantasy fans.
I went into this book having read the blurb about it quite some time go. I remembered there was a female as a main character and that the story was about magic. What I had forgotten, and quickly found out while I was reading, was that The Thirteenth Tower was very much a "discovery of self" "coming of age" type of novel. Only coming of age with magic, which is always something I find interesting.
The story is about Emelyn, a supposedly orphaned housemaid from the village of Fallow. Throughout the story she travels far and wide and discovers quite a bit about herself, magic, and the world around her. And boy is it an interesting tale of travel.
I loved The Thirteenth Tower. The writing was tight and interesting. The characters were fairly well-developed and it kept me on my toes, especially as to what exactly a few of the characters were up to throughout the novel.
And, even better, the story ended very nicely. It tied up enough strings to feel like a complete story but enough was left open that I could see Snider deciding to make it the first of a series if she so chose.
The only complaint I had was that some of the scenes with magic may have been handled a little better. I've read plenty of fantasy/magic stories and magic is something that can be hard to describe and that seemed like the case here. Descriptions of how the magic in this world works were long winded and slightly confusing. The magic battle at the end was VERY confusing.
But I still enjoyed what was going on. So as long as you're not afraid to be a little confused (because even if you do get confused, by the end of it you will know what happened) it's definitely a worthwhile read for fantasy fans.
March 27, 2015
“The Thirteenth Tower” was published in 2014 and was written by Sara C. Snider (http://saracsnider.com). Ms. Snider has published two novels this being there first of her “Tree and Tower” series.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘PG’ as there are some instances of Violence. This Young Adult Fantasy novel is set in another world where magic exists. The primary character is 17 year old Emelyn.
Evelyn is an orphan who was left at the door of a well to do home. She was raised by the housekeeper and given a basic education, but little affection. Emelyn saw herself as never being more than the house maid that she was.
A strange event happens in her town, and she escapes with two Magisters who say they know of her parents. She goes with the Magisters hoping to find out about her parents, but little information is forthcoming. She also learns that they believe that she has ability with “the Art” and try to teach her. She struggles with their lessons, but is able, when stressed, to somehow use magic to save herself.
Emelyn has more than one magical experience along their journey and she begins to wonder why the magisters have brought her along. As she meets others skilled in magic, her doubts about the magister grows.
This is s story of struggle and growth for the young Emelyn. I spent 6 hours with the novel and found it interesting, but not overly engaging. I felt that this was more about the struggle Evelyn had within herself than about the fantasy land she was in. I felt that this was just the prelude to the real story of the series. I give this novel a 3 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘PG’ as there are some instances of Violence. This Young Adult Fantasy novel is set in another world where magic exists. The primary character is 17 year old Emelyn.
Evelyn is an orphan who was left at the door of a well to do home. She was raised by the housekeeper and given a basic education, but little affection. Emelyn saw herself as never being more than the house maid that she was.
A strange event happens in her town, and she escapes with two Magisters who say they know of her parents. She goes with the Magisters hoping to find out about her parents, but little information is forthcoming. She also learns that they believe that she has ability with “the Art” and try to teach her. She struggles with their lessons, but is able, when stressed, to somehow use magic to save herself.
Emelyn has more than one magical experience along their journey and she begins to wonder why the magisters have brought her along. As she meets others skilled in magic, her doubts about the magister grows.
This is s story of struggle and growth for the young Emelyn. I spent 6 hours with the novel and found it interesting, but not overly engaging. I felt that this was more about the struggle Evelyn had within herself than about the fantasy land she was in. I felt that this was just the prelude to the real story of the series. I give this novel a 3 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
April 18, 2014
Sara Snider has created a world in which one can both feel comfortable and get lost.
At the beginning of the story we meet Emelyn, who is a servant in a wealthier house.
We learn how she came to be there and that for the most part, she is satisfied with her lot in life.
The town of Fallow is familiar, comfortable and typical.
As the story begins, the town is getting readied to celebrate a festival, the likes of which have never been seen before. Excitement is in the air but before the festival can even get under way, strange things start happening.
Emelyn is an innocent, a good girl who follows the rules.
So when the rules no longer apply, she must make choices and figure out where her life will go next.
Having always been curious about her parents, when the Magi suggest they know about them and can help answer her questions, Emelyn thinks that following the Magi is as good as any other choice at this moment.
This is a fantasy adventure with interesting plot twists as Snider introduces us to various types of imaginary creatures. Sometimes the question is - what is real and what is an apparition? What can one believe?
The story shows how Emelyn grows as a person and has to learn to trust in situations she is not prepared for.
It involves differences of opinion and some physical conflict, but being mainly magical in nature, it is suitable for young adult readers.
It can be read as a stand alone novel, but at the end there are still some questions I would like to see explained further.
I was given a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
At the beginning of the story we meet Emelyn, who is a servant in a wealthier house.
We learn how she came to be there and that for the most part, she is satisfied with her lot in life.
The town of Fallow is familiar, comfortable and typical.
As the story begins, the town is getting readied to celebrate a festival, the likes of which have never been seen before. Excitement is in the air but before the festival can even get under way, strange things start happening.
Emelyn is an innocent, a good girl who follows the rules.
So when the rules no longer apply, she must make choices and figure out where her life will go next.
Having always been curious about her parents, when the Magi suggest they know about them and can help answer her questions, Emelyn thinks that following the Magi is as good as any other choice at this moment.
This is a fantasy adventure with interesting plot twists as Snider introduces us to various types of imaginary creatures. Sometimes the question is - what is real and what is an apparition? What can one believe?
The story shows how Emelyn grows as a person and has to learn to trust in situations she is not prepared for.
It involves differences of opinion and some physical conflict, but being mainly magical in nature, it is suitable for young adult readers.
It can be read as a stand alone novel, but at the end there are still some questions I would like to see explained further.
I was given a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 10, 2014
Won a copy from Good Reads First Reads
I actually give this book 3.5 stars.
I'm kind of torn about this book, I really enjoyed parts of it while other parts left me kind of lukewarm about it. The beginning of the book was really good. You get a glimpse into the life of Emelyn, the servant girl. You feel her excitement over the Harvest Festival & hoping she gets all her chores done so she might attend. Then it quickly gets into the entire township of Fallow being enchanted by magical creatures. Emelyn is immune to these enchantments & soon joins a pair of Magi whose intent is to stop these creatures & the disturbances they are causing. We met Corran who arrives in the nick of time to save Emelyn from the Boggans. Corran tries to dissuade her from journeying with the Magi but Emelyn doesn't heed him. Corran also goes along, almost a protector to her. There are many other background characters that we meet throughout the book. Some of these such as Cobbe I felt could have had more involvement in the story. Also, Emelyn's inner monologue sometimes was a bit much. She questioned too much stuff & was so unsure of herself. She didn't come off as too smart either, but maybe that was to show that she was just a small town, servant girl. There was a lot of this story that could have had much more substance to it. This is the part that kind of threw me for a loop. There could have been so much more story development. Even though I figured out much of the story before it happened I felt it was a very good ending & feel that Ms. Snider could easily continue the story with another book or even several more to make this a series. I would definitely read more of this story.
I actually give this book 3.5 stars.
I'm kind of torn about this book, I really enjoyed parts of it while other parts left me kind of lukewarm about it. The beginning of the book was really good. You get a glimpse into the life of Emelyn, the servant girl. You feel her excitement over the Harvest Festival & hoping she gets all her chores done so she might attend. Then it quickly gets into the entire township of Fallow being enchanted by magical creatures. Emelyn is immune to these enchantments & soon joins a pair of Magi whose intent is to stop these creatures & the disturbances they are causing. We met Corran who arrives in the nick of time to save Emelyn from the Boggans. Corran tries to dissuade her from journeying with the Magi but Emelyn doesn't heed him. Corran also goes along, almost a protector to her. There are many other background characters that we meet throughout the book. Some of these such as Cobbe I felt could have had more involvement in the story. Also, Emelyn's inner monologue sometimes was a bit much. She questioned too much stuff & was so unsure of herself. She didn't come off as too smart either, but maybe that was to show that she was just a small town, servant girl. There was a lot of this story that could have had much more substance to it. This is the part that kind of threw me for a loop. There could have been so much more story development. Even though I figured out much of the story before it happened I felt it was a very good ending & feel that Ms. Snider could easily continue the story with another book or even several more to make this a series. I would definitely read more of this story.
April 28, 2015
This book had me hooked by the end of chapter one . The story is one of magic and the strength of love. The story is about a young orphan Emelyn , who was abandoned as baby. She grows up as a housemaid. Her life is uneventful and pretty boring. Until the day that a bunch of magical creatures come to town and start hurting the townsfolk. But Emelyn is some how immune to these creatures . And sets out with tow magi to thwart these creatures . With the promise of answers to who her parents are . She over comes so many things to help her survive but will she become strong enough to over come her doubts and be the woman she is suppose to be.
When I started to read this book it took me to a medieval world of magic and magical creatures , are just pure heavenly . There are new characters that will keep you entertained. Cobbe was a great character . Emelyn's character is a very mature and responsible young woman , who doesn't go and fall in love with the two men she meets along the way. There are so many cool characters that you will love , you just don't know if they are bad or good. I hope to learn more about these characters with each book. The forest people especially need to know about.
This is not your children's fairy tale . This is a grown up, sitting on the edge of your seat fairy tale.
You are taken for a ride that will show you imps, innocents , dark forests full of evil and dark creatures . The story is a good read that will take you to a world that will mystify you and make you fall in love. So I recommend this for anyone who wants to go a fantasy and get lost in a good story .
August 3, 2015
I was given a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. This review (and others) is also published at thereareinkspotsonmypage.tumblr.com
This book was a delight from beginning to end. Essentially following Emelyn as she discovers her past, and therefore her future, The Thirteenth Tower is full of rich, detailed characters, and a wonderfully immersive world.
In the classic fairy tale structure, you have a pretty good idea what's coming as you move through the story, and it's no different here. But the way that it's told, and the neat little twist at the end, make you forget that it's a trope that you've encountered many times before. It's beautifully written from beginning to end, and manages to avoid a lot of the clichés you might expect from a similar story, and I liked how the story steadily progressed from beginning to end, instead of having slow bits followed by super fast-action bits.
Our protagonist, Emelyn is very realistic and believable as she grows through the story, her confusion and innocence are incredibly well-portrayed, and her underlying strength is neatly developed as the story progresses. Cobbe was probably my favourite, and had me giggling on more than one occasion. The resident "bad dude", or "bad lady" in this case, caused the opposite reaction as her history unfolded, and I did cheer a bit when the actual bad guy got what he deserved.
All in all, a thoroughly delightful book, and I really look forward to seeing what else Sara Snider comes out with.
This book was a delight from beginning to end. Essentially following Emelyn as she discovers her past, and therefore her future, The Thirteenth Tower is full of rich, detailed characters, and a wonderfully immersive world.
In the classic fairy tale structure, you have a pretty good idea what's coming as you move through the story, and it's no different here. But the way that it's told, and the neat little twist at the end, make you forget that it's a trope that you've encountered many times before. It's beautifully written from beginning to end, and manages to avoid a lot of the clichés you might expect from a similar story, and I liked how the story steadily progressed from beginning to end, instead of having slow bits followed by super fast-action bits.
Our protagonist, Emelyn is very realistic and believable as she grows through the story, her confusion and innocence are incredibly well-portrayed, and her underlying strength is neatly developed as the story progresses. Cobbe was probably my favourite, and had me giggling on more than one occasion. The resident "bad dude", or "bad lady" in this case, caused the opposite reaction as her history unfolded, and I did cheer a bit when the actual bad guy got what he deserved.
All in all, a thoroughly delightful book, and I really look forward to seeing what else Sara Snider comes out with.
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