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Genie Chronicles #1
Heir to the Lamp
A family secret, a mysterious lamp, a dangerous Order with the mad desire to possess both.
Ginn thinks she knows all there is to know about how she became adopted by parents whose number one priority is to embarrass her with public displays of affection, but that changes when a single wish starts a never-ending parade of weirdness marching through her door the day she turns thirteen.
Gifted with a mysterious lamp and the missing pieces from her adoption story, Ginn tries to discover who ... or what ... she really is. That should be strange enough, but to top it off Ginn's being hunted by the Order of the Grimoire, a secret society who'll stop at nothing to harness the power of a real genie. Ginn struggles to stay one step ahead of the Grimms with the help of Rashmere, Guardian of the lamp and the most loyal friend a girl never knew she had. The Grimms are being helped, too—but by whom? As much as she doesn't want to, Ginn's beginning to question the motives of her long-time crush Caleb Scott and his connection to her newest, most dangerous enemy.
Gifted with a mysterious lamp and the missing pieces from her adoption story, Ginn tries to discover who ... or what ... she really is. That should be strange enough, but to top it off Ginn's being hunted by the Order of the Grimoire, a secret society who'll stop at nothing to harness the power of a real genie. Ginn struggles to stay one step ahead of the Grimms with the help of Rashmere, Guardian of the lamp and the most loyal friend a girl never knew she had. The Grimms are being helped, too—but by whom? As much as she doesn't want to, Ginn's beginning to question the motives of her long-time crush Caleb Scott and his connection to her newest, most dangerous enemy.
- GenresYoung AdultFantasy
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
4 people are currently reading
826 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Lowery Combs
3 books33 followersMichelle Lowery Combs is an award-winning writer and book blogger living in rural Alabama with one cat and too many children to count. When not in the presence of throngs of toddlers, tweens and teens, she can be found among the rows of her family farm, dreaming up the next best seller. She is a member of the Alabama Writers’ Conclave and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, SCBWI.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 13, 2013
For me, the thing that has always distinguished a great story from a good story is whether or not I can see myself in it. Am I there with the characters, sharing in their experiences, or am I sitting on my couch reading about their experiences? There is a difference. (It’s like the difference between standing beside Mary Poppins looking at the sidewalk drawing, or taking her hand, jumping into it, and riding the carousel horses.) I want to be taken along for the ride; and from the very first page of Heir to the Lamp, Michelle Lowery Combs’ debut novel about a teenage girl turned genie, I was!
Meet Virginia Lawson. “Ginn.” Djinn. As if the challenges of growing up with zany parents, a horde of siblings, and unmanageable hair are not enough, try doing it while harnessing newfound magical powers and keeping your lamp (and yourself) out of the clutches of everyone wishing to control you both. Such is Ginn’s plight as she bungles her initial attempts at magic but ultimately becomes skilled enough to outwit her adversaries with the help of her trusty sidekick and fellow-djinn, Rashmere.
In his hundreds of years as guardian of the lamp, Rashmere has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, but he has experienced nothing that could prepare him for being dropped into the Lawson household in 21st Century America. Clearly from another place and time, Rashmere is a lovable misfit charming in his innocence. His misinterpretation of current-day expressions, his comical attempts to “modernize” his own outdated speech, and his genteel mannerisms mark him as a “fish out of water.” His centuries of selfless dedication and unwavering loyalty to Ginn’s ancestors and now, to Ginn, mark him as the best friend a new genie could ever wish for.
The characters are so skillfully crafted that even the relatively minor players are fully-developed, unique personalities, each contributing something very special to the story. The somewhat eccentric but oh-so-cool grandmother who marches to the beat of her own drum; the oh-so-NOT-cool parents; the throng of siblings (well, five siblings, actually—but it feels like a throng to Ginn); friends; enemies; they are fallible, funny, lovable or loathsome, but above all, they are believable.
The imagery, too, is so vivid—so stunningly realistic—that whatever the setting, I felt that I was a part of it. When Ginn was fleeing an angry mob, terrified and exhausted, I was right beside her, my own arms and legs mentally pumping. When she entered the lamp’s universe for the first time, unexpectedly spilling out onto a beach, I actually felt my feet sink into the sun-warmed sand, heard the whisper of distant waves, and squinted up at a sky the color of blue flames illuminated by electric-white clouds. I even saw myself reaching for a waffle in the Lawson family’s delightfully chaotic kitchen! The settings were so realistically depicted that the reader could not help but be pulled in by the sights, smells, textures, tastes, and sounds. Heir to the Lamp is as much a “place” as it is a story, and I loved every minute of my visit!
While Ginn’s adventure is dramatic, touching—and definitely suspenseful—humor features prominently in the story, too. Humor, embedded as it is in the very heart of Michelle Lowery Combs’ writing, shows up in the most unexpected places. Time and again, her descriptions of even the most commonplace occurrences had me laughing out loud! There’s nothing out of the ordinary, for example, about a teenage girl wanting to insure that her privacy is not invaded by her brothers. Using her own strategically-placed under garments to fortify her bedroom against said invasion? Funny.
As Ginn learns the details of her birth-parents’ lives and her own adoption, (and masters her jump shot as well as her magic) Heir to the Lamp provides the perfect setting for the reader to explore the meaning of loyalty, sacrifice, and what makes a group of individuals—human or djinn—“family”.
Meet Virginia Lawson. “Ginn.” Djinn. As if the challenges of growing up with zany parents, a horde of siblings, and unmanageable hair are not enough, try doing it while harnessing newfound magical powers and keeping your lamp (and yourself) out of the clutches of everyone wishing to control you both. Such is Ginn’s plight as she bungles her initial attempts at magic but ultimately becomes skilled enough to outwit her adversaries with the help of her trusty sidekick and fellow-djinn, Rashmere.
In his hundreds of years as guardian of the lamp, Rashmere has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, but he has experienced nothing that could prepare him for being dropped into the Lawson household in 21st Century America. Clearly from another place and time, Rashmere is a lovable misfit charming in his innocence. His misinterpretation of current-day expressions, his comical attempts to “modernize” his own outdated speech, and his genteel mannerisms mark him as a “fish out of water.” His centuries of selfless dedication and unwavering loyalty to Ginn’s ancestors and now, to Ginn, mark him as the best friend a new genie could ever wish for.
The characters are so skillfully crafted that even the relatively minor players are fully-developed, unique personalities, each contributing something very special to the story. The somewhat eccentric but oh-so-cool grandmother who marches to the beat of her own drum; the oh-so-NOT-cool parents; the throng of siblings (well, five siblings, actually—but it feels like a throng to Ginn); friends; enemies; they are fallible, funny, lovable or loathsome, but above all, they are believable.
The imagery, too, is so vivid—so stunningly realistic—that whatever the setting, I felt that I was a part of it. When Ginn was fleeing an angry mob, terrified and exhausted, I was right beside her, my own arms and legs mentally pumping. When she entered the lamp’s universe for the first time, unexpectedly spilling out onto a beach, I actually felt my feet sink into the sun-warmed sand, heard the whisper of distant waves, and squinted up at a sky the color of blue flames illuminated by electric-white clouds. I even saw myself reaching for a waffle in the Lawson family’s delightfully chaotic kitchen! The settings were so realistically depicted that the reader could not help but be pulled in by the sights, smells, textures, tastes, and sounds. Heir to the Lamp is as much a “place” as it is a story, and I loved every minute of my visit!
While Ginn’s adventure is dramatic, touching—and definitely suspenseful—humor features prominently in the story, too. Humor, embedded as it is in the very heart of Michelle Lowery Combs’ writing, shows up in the most unexpected places. Time and again, her descriptions of even the most commonplace occurrences had me laughing out loud! There’s nothing out of the ordinary, for example, about a teenage girl wanting to insure that her privacy is not invaded by her brothers. Using her own strategically-placed under garments to fortify her bedroom against said invasion? Funny.
As Ginn learns the details of her birth-parents’ lives and her own adoption, (and masters her jump shot as well as her magic) Heir to the Lamp provides the perfect setting for the reader to explore the meaning of loyalty, sacrifice, and what makes a group of individuals—human or djinn—“family”.
December 15, 2013
When I was first asked to read and review this book, I was afraid that I would have a hard time being completely honest. I know the author personally and consider her a good friend of mine. Needless to say, I have no problem telling you how much I enjoyed this novel.
We start out with a story of Virginia, aka Ginn, and her misfit, chaotic family. She seems normal and as happy as a 13-year-old girl can be. She has normal struggles with her mother’s cooking, her brothers and larger-than-normal bullies. She’s witty, independent and sporty.
And she just so happens to be one of a few children in her family that is adopted.
When Ginn discovers that things around her are changing due to silent wishes, her Grandmother unveils the story of her birth family and unlocks a world she had only heard about in books. While trying to grasp the reality of the person she really is, she’s introduced to a new friend and protector that takes many shapes and forms over the course of the book, Rashmere. He becomes Ginn’s guide in this new world she has involuntarily become a part of, teaching her the ropes and educating her about the enemies of her kind.
Together with help from her Gran, her brother, CJ, and Rashmere, Ginn learns how to navigate her new world and discovers that her enemies will stop at nothing to get their hands on her and her lamp.
Typically, I would think this novel would be more geared toward the younger YA group. However, that being said, I’m in my early 30’s and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was really fond of Ginn’s independent nature and ability to adjust quickly to the overload of information thrown at her. She was strong when she needed to be, but I also loved that I could still see the snarky teenager creeping through her brave façade. I found myself silently rooting for Ginn and her newly-discovered abilities.
I adored precious Rashmere and his loyal nature. Ginn’s family made me laugh a lot throughout the book and reminded me a good bit of my own chaotic life.
This book was an easy read but I still felt challenged in a good way. It kept my brain occupied trying to remember stories and connections without overwhelming the plot of the story. The pace was quick without feeling rushed.
I think any fan of YA paranormal books would really enjoy this one. For Michelle’s debut novel, I am beyond impressed (and more than a little proud of my friend). I cannot wait to read more of Ginn’s adventures in the sequels!
We start out with a story of Virginia, aka Ginn, and her misfit, chaotic family. She seems normal and as happy as a 13-year-old girl can be. She has normal struggles with her mother’s cooking, her brothers and larger-than-normal bullies. She’s witty, independent and sporty.
And she just so happens to be one of a few children in her family that is adopted.
When Ginn discovers that things around her are changing due to silent wishes, her Grandmother unveils the story of her birth family and unlocks a world she had only heard about in books. While trying to grasp the reality of the person she really is, she’s introduced to a new friend and protector that takes many shapes and forms over the course of the book, Rashmere. He becomes Ginn’s guide in this new world she has involuntarily become a part of, teaching her the ropes and educating her about the enemies of her kind.
Together with help from her Gran, her brother, CJ, and Rashmere, Ginn learns how to navigate her new world and discovers that her enemies will stop at nothing to get their hands on her and her lamp.
Typically, I would think this novel would be more geared toward the younger YA group. However, that being said, I’m in my early 30’s and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was really fond of Ginn’s independent nature and ability to adjust quickly to the overload of information thrown at her. She was strong when she needed to be, but I also loved that I could still see the snarky teenager creeping through her brave façade. I found myself silently rooting for Ginn and her newly-discovered abilities.
I adored precious Rashmere and his loyal nature. Ginn’s family made me laugh a lot throughout the book and reminded me a good bit of my own chaotic life.
This book was an easy read but I still felt challenged in a good way. It kept my brain occupied trying to remember stories and connections without overwhelming the plot of the story. The pace was quick without feeling rushed.
I think any fan of YA paranormal books would really enjoy this one. For Michelle’s debut novel, I am beyond impressed (and more than a little proud of my friend). I cannot wait to read more of Ginn’s adventures in the sequels!
July 18, 2013
Filled with magic, curses, and mystery, Heir to the Lamp is a spellbinding journey about a young girl’s path to self-discovery. It’s unique, funny, and enthralling. But as great as the plotline was, it’s the characters are what make the story, particular Ginn, Rushmere, and Caleb.
Though still in her pre-teens, Ginn’s not all about her, like I have seen in some other young YA main characters. Actually she was quite a spit-fire when it comes to looking out for her friends and family. And I found her though girl attitude engaging.
Rushmere was especially cool, and though I thought his entrance was a little weak, I quickly grew to like him. As for Caleb, I had a hard time not liking him, even when I started having my doubts about his loyalties. But hey, I’m a sucker for a copper haired boy with turquoise eyes. I just wished there was more of him in the storyline. I felt his appearances were far and few between.
The other best part of Heir to the Lamp was Ginn’s adoptive family. They are a unique blend of different personalities and characteristics, and together, they bring forth an unusual, refreshing dynamic to young adult literature. I enjoyed reading about them and would actually love to learn a little more about each of these family members. I hope there is more information in future books.
As for the plotline, I found it really enjoyable. There were just a few scenes and events I wasn’t really sure why they were necessary to the plot. The first being her little brother stealing the lamp to bring to school. As entertaining as the event was, I almost felt like this was an unnecessary obstacle for Ginn to face. And her case of pink eye near the end, I just kind of didn’t see any true purpose in it. I almost felt it could have been replaced or just drop entirely from the scene. It didn’t hold any value.
In all, I couldn’t put this novel down. I would definitely recommend Heir to the Lamp and I personally can’t wait to read the next book! Especially if there is more Rushmere and Caleb in it!
For more book reviews, you can also visit my website over at Ketch’s Book Nook. Thank you.
Though still in her pre-teens, Ginn’s not all about her, like I have seen in some other young YA main characters. Actually she was quite a spit-fire when it comes to looking out for her friends and family. And I found her though girl attitude engaging.
Rushmere was especially cool, and though I thought his entrance was a little weak, I quickly grew to like him. As for Caleb, I had a hard time not liking him, even when I started having my doubts about his loyalties. But hey, I’m a sucker for a copper haired boy with turquoise eyes. I just wished there was more of him in the storyline. I felt his appearances were far and few between.
The other best part of Heir to the Lamp was Ginn’s adoptive family. They are a unique blend of different personalities and characteristics, and together, they bring forth an unusual, refreshing dynamic to young adult literature. I enjoyed reading about them and would actually love to learn a little more about each of these family members. I hope there is more information in future books.
As for the plotline, I found it really enjoyable. There were just a few scenes and events I wasn’t really sure why they were necessary to the plot. The first being her little brother stealing the lamp to bring to school. As entertaining as the event was, I almost felt like this was an unnecessary obstacle for Ginn to face. And her case of pink eye near the end, I just kind of didn’t see any true purpose in it. I almost felt it could have been replaced or just drop entirely from the scene. It didn’t hold any value.
In all, I couldn’t put this novel down. I would definitely recommend Heir to the Lamp and I personally can’t wait to read the next book! Especially if there is more Rushmere and Caleb in it!
For more book reviews, you can also visit my website over at Ketch’s Book Nook. Thank you.
July 30, 2014
Originally posted at Worlds Abound
Heir to the Lamp starts off with our introduction to Virginia “Ginn” Lawson, a 13 year old girl with a passion for sports and a crazy, eclectic family. After altering the outcome of a basketball game via mental wish, Ginn thinks she’s going crazy. Add on to that weird dreams and a talking rabbit named Rashmere and Ginn knows she needs to get some answers so she turns to her grandmother.
Ginn was a pretty relatable protagonist, she likes sports and boys and her brothers constantly annoy her. We find out pretty quickly that Ginn and 3 of her siblings are adopted, and that leads to the revelation of her Djinn (genie) heritage.
What follows is a quick jaunt into a lamp that encompasses an island in the middle of an ocean, a rabbit that talks, and some scary giant people called the Grimm’s that are from a secret order bent on making Ginn their slave.
The book was not what I expected, but definitely a refreshingly interesting read. It’s relatively short, about 190 pages, and only covers a couple days’ worth of time, but that was enough to give us a peak into this world of genies and magic. It took me just a couple hours to get through, and nothing stood out as glaringly annoying/wrong. I will probably check out the sequel when it’s released!
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars and would recommend the title to anyone that likes middle grade fiction with magic.
Heir to the Lamp starts off with our introduction to Virginia “Ginn” Lawson, a 13 year old girl with a passion for sports and a crazy, eclectic family. After altering the outcome of a basketball game via mental wish, Ginn thinks she’s going crazy. Add on to that weird dreams and a talking rabbit named Rashmere and Ginn knows she needs to get some answers so she turns to her grandmother.
Ginn was a pretty relatable protagonist, she likes sports and boys and her brothers constantly annoy her. We find out pretty quickly that Ginn and 3 of her siblings are adopted, and that leads to the revelation of her Djinn (genie) heritage.
What follows is a quick jaunt into a lamp that encompasses an island in the middle of an ocean, a rabbit that talks, and some scary giant people called the Grimm’s that are from a secret order bent on making Ginn their slave.
The book was not what I expected, but definitely a refreshingly interesting read. It’s relatively short, about 190 pages, and only covers a couple days’ worth of time, but that was enough to give us a peak into this world of genies and magic. It took me just a couple hours to get through, and nothing stood out as glaringly annoying/wrong. I will probably check out the sequel when it’s released!
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars and would recommend the title to anyone that likes middle grade fiction with magic.
July 3, 2013
Heir to the Lamp is an intriguing story of 13 year old Ginn who finds out about her genie heritage on her 13th birthday. Her birth mother leaves a message of warning for her along with a mysterious lamp. As the story unfolds, Ginn comes face to face with that danger and finds out that not only is she growing up but that she is capable of protecting the legacy of her genie ancestors.
The author does a wonderful job of describing the lamp and the genie world. I enjoyed the suspense of finding out about her abilities along with Ginn. She shows a lot of real emotions and fears, just like a real teenager. I can’t wait to read the next book to see what adventures are in store for Ginn and her family and friends.
The author does a wonderful job of describing the lamp and the genie world. I enjoyed the suspense of finding out about her abilities along with Ginn. She shows a lot of real emotions and fears, just like a real teenager. I can’t wait to read the next book to see what adventures are in store for Ginn and her family and friends.
October 16, 2015
Heir to the Lamp was a fast paced and enjoyable read. The editing and format allowed for me speed reading this one as well as the great story line. I loved the characters and the realness Combs gives to them. The main character, Ginn, is only 13, but mature, which I found refreshing. I usually don't read books with a main character younger than 16 because, most of the time, their plight is juvenile. However, Ginn was smart, brash, and resilient. She comes from a dark past, but doesn't dwell on it. I liked how she's a "look on the bright side" sort of girl.
They mythology and historical accounts were well researched and presented in the book. Anything about mythological creatures piques my interest so I was more than thrilled when tried and true characters, like the Djinn, were presented in a unique way.
Definitely a series I will continue to read.
They mythology and historical accounts were well researched and presented in the book. Anything about mythological creatures piques my interest so I was more than thrilled when tried and true characters, like the Djinn, were presented in a unique way.
Definitely a series I will continue to read.
May 7, 2013
Smart and fun. On the younger end of the YA spectrum, but I'm excited to watch Ginn grow up and come into her own.
August 8, 2013
Heir to the Lamp is Anne Rice meets Harry Potter with delicious writing, a Southern Gothic mystery, and an inventive world that tweens, teens, and the young-at-heart are sure to enjoy!
May 31, 2017
I have just finished this story about two days ago. This is one of those great stories that I was fortunate to came upon. I found this through World Weaver Press' newsletter. After reading the blurb, my curiosity was piqued so I signed up to review this book. They sent me the first two books in the series. Thank you!
Obviously, as suggested by the title, this is about genies or djinns. Aside from the very popular Disney's Alladin, I have only read one other book about djinns (Stone Bearers by Jacque Stevens). It was a good story too. Having not read a lot of books with the same topic just added fuel to my interest. What kind of genie story this could be?
The story is similar in a way to the story I have mentioned earlier. The main character is the also a girl and there is a genie in the story. Both stories have young heroines that are out to find and prove themselves. And this is where I draw the line separating the two stories. There could be a lot of ways in which they are different. Heir to the lamp is more current in its setting and characters. It also tends to be hilarious since it never failed to paint a smile on my face because of its sometimes annoying yet cute characters. Just like I am, you will find you can't decide if the Terrible Twosome are too cute and smart or just plain little devils. You will definitely wish that the Lawsons were your neighbors.
Again, this is a story of a thirteen-year old finding her roots only it was so freaking unbelievable and awesome. Unbelievable like crazy. Are-you-for-real-kind-of-crazy. The main character Ginn or Virginia was just finding out about her biological parents and her origins alongside just becoming a teenager with its perks and downside. Knowing about where she came from made her appreciate more the blessing of what a great adoptive family she has, even though they are loud and chaotic most of the time. She never lacked for love and support from them, even from the Terrible Twosome.
The story transported me to a marvelous adventure. There were no carpet rides but it was amazing none-the-less. This felt like a story within a story with all the other fictional and mythical characters and creatures being introduced. Turning the Grimm Brothers into the bad guys was not really unheard of but it was novel enough to me. One thing is for sure, I like this genie story and I can't wait to get on to the next book.
I give this 5/5 genie lamps. This magical journey is both entertaining and addicting. I can't help but dive into the next book because my curiosity got the best of me. I am so happy I found this book or more appropriately, this book found me. Thank you again, World Weaver Press for the copy.
I keep my size-four figure safely enclosed in a generous layer of bubble-wrap. It's the only reason I'm wearing a size twelve.
- Michelle Lowery Combs, Heir to the Lamp -
Obviously, as suggested by the title, this is about genies or djinns. Aside from the very popular Disney's Alladin, I have only read one other book about djinns (Stone Bearers by Jacque Stevens). It was a good story too. Having not read a lot of books with the same topic just added fuel to my interest. What kind of genie story this could be?
The story is similar in a way to the story I have mentioned earlier. The main character is the also a girl and there is a genie in the story. Both stories have young heroines that are out to find and prove themselves. And this is where I draw the line separating the two stories. There could be a lot of ways in which they are different. Heir to the lamp is more current in its setting and characters. It also tends to be hilarious since it never failed to paint a smile on my face because of its sometimes annoying yet cute characters. Just like I am, you will find you can't decide if the Terrible Twosome are too cute and smart or just plain little devils. You will definitely wish that the Lawsons were your neighbors.
Again, this is a story of a thirteen-year old finding her roots only it was so freaking unbelievable and awesome. Unbelievable like crazy. Are-you-for-real-kind-of-crazy. The main character Ginn or Virginia was just finding out about her biological parents and her origins alongside just becoming a teenager with its perks and downside. Knowing about where she came from made her appreciate more the blessing of what a great adoptive family she has, even though they are loud and chaotic most of the time. She never lacked for love and support from them, even from the Terrible Twosome.
The story transported me to a marvelous adventure. There were no carpet rides but it was amazing none-the-less. This felt like a story within a story with all the other fictional and mythical characters and creatures being introduced. Turning the Grimm Brothers into the bad guys was not really unheard of but it was novel enough to me. One thing is for sure, I like this genie story and I can't wait to get on to the next book.
I give this 5/5 genie lamps. This magical journey is both entertaining and addicting. I can't help but dive into the next book because my curiosity got the best of me. I am so happy I found this book or more appropriately, this book found me. Thank you again, World Weaver Press for the copy.
I keep my size-four figure safely enclosed in a generous layer of bubble-wrap. It's the only reason I'm wearing a size twelve.
- Michelle Lowery Combs, Heir to the Lamp -
April 1, 2018
Heir to the Lamp is a fun start to what I'm sure will be a great series. This first book of the Genie Chronicles is a quick read that sets up the characters and gives us a look at 13 year-old Ginn's life as it's turned upside down by a fantastical, well, inheritance (hence the title). Ginn herself is a spunky gem of a character, and I really like her big quirky family, as well as the secondary characters. And, honestly, there just aren't enough books about djinn out there, right? To those I might recommend this book to, I would definitely point out this tale is on the younger end of the YA category, since so many YA books at the moment deal with darker, older teen themes. As an adult who enjoys both adult, YA, and middle grade reads, I thought it was refreshing to see a 13-year-old with normal 13-year-old thoughts and problems (with a helping of magic on top).
The second book is going straight to my TBR list.
The second book is going straight to my TBR list.
February 7, 2017
Heir To The Lamp by Michelle Lowery Combs is Book One in the Genie Chronicles series.
This is a YA Paranormal novel. Quick read. Be careful what you wish for.
There is also a sneak peek of Book Two, Solomon's Bell.
This is a YA Paranormal novel. Quick read. Be careful what you wish for.
There is also a sneak peek of Book Two, Solomon's Bell.
June 9, 2017
I guess I'm having a thing for retellings of fairy tales 😃 this was pretty good 😃
February 24, 2018
A great YA coming of age.
March 9, 2017
I got this E-book free as I won the 2nd book in The early Reviewers (On LibraryThing) (So thought it would be nice to leave a review for this book also).
A really fascinating story about a 13yr old girl named Virginia aka Ginn finding out about her Genie Heritage, A really quick read with lots of action and adventure with wizards, Spells and travelling to other continents that draw you in.
Would recommend to young adults or young at heart that likes adventure, Genies, Spells and the like.
A really fascinating story about a 13yr old girl named Virginia aka Ginn finding out about her Genie Heritage, A really quick read with lots of action and adventure with wizards, Spells and travelling to other continents that draw you in.
Would recommend to young adults or young at heart that likes adventure, Genies, Spells and the like.
February 1, 2014
This smart, funny YA fantasy book introduces a spunky heroine, her large and affectionate family, and a terrific alternate universe of djinn, imps, and magical spirits.
On her thirteenth birthday, Ginn wants to win a basketball game and get a cell phone. Both her wishes come true, but with rather unexpected consequences. Soon she's unravelling a mystery involving a beautiful lamp, an evil order of magicians and her own birth mother, (who turns out to be much more than Ginn had originally imagined). The novel blends history and mythology with first-rate storytelling and is the first book in a humorous and exciting new series for younger teens.
An accomplished writer, author Michelle Lowry Combs deftly keeps this story moving, despite its complex backstory. Ginn's large family makes for an extensive array of specific, attractive and diverse characters--a welcome and wonderful alternative to the plethora of loner, orphaned, marginalized magic workers in other fictional universes. Because of the length of the book, and the propellant action, some of Ginn's family and friends are barely introduced. I look forward to later books in this series, when these characters can be more deeply and thoroughly developed. They are a lot of fun!
On her thirteenth birthday, Ginn wants to win a basketball game and get a cell phone. Both her wishes come true, but with rather unexpected consequences. Soon she's unravelling a mystery involving a beautiful lamp, an evil order of magicians and her own birth mother, (who turns out to be much more than Ginn had originally imagined). The novel blends history and mythology with first-rate storytelling and is the first book in a humorous and exciting new series for younger teens.
An accomplished writer, author Michelle Lowry Combs deftly keeps this story moving, despite its complex backstory. Ginn's large family makes for an extensive array of specific, attractive and diverse characters--a welcome and wonderful alternative to the plethora of loner, orphaned, marginalized magic workers in other fictional universes. Because of the length of the book, and the propellant action, some of Ginn's family and friends are barely introduced. I look forward to later books in this series, when these characters can be more deeply and thoroughly developed. They are a lot of fun!
February 11, 2014
Magic melded with contemporary teenage life, complicated by an oversized family; this is YA fantasy Big Mac style! And with an extra large order of humor on the side. It's obvious Michelle Lowery Combs writes with experience when it comes to the over abundance of chaos and love found in a large family, but she also nails the voice of 13 year old Ginn, who's snarky sense of humor and emerging confidence keep the pages turning at a wild pace. And she brings the ancient legend of the Djinn to life with an intriguing realm of genies who are often called to serve the world's most powerful (and eccentric) conjurers. Will Ginn be trapped in servitude by the self-centered parents of the behemoth who rivals her in basketball? And will she stay true to her morals when faced with unfathomable power? I promise, you won't be able to put this book down until you find out!
October 30, 2015
Virginia loves her close family made up of her parent's biological and adopted children. She is the only girl among the five and was adopted at an early age. She is a star on her basketball team and is looking forward to celebrating her 13th birthday. However, she is surprised when every thing that she really wishes for on her birthday comes to pass. She is especially amazed and bemused when she clearly remembers missing the winning basket during her game but everyone is congratulating her on the big win! A conversation with her grandmother reveals some long held and very troubling secrets. Virginia suddenly is faced with ethical decisions and physical threats that could cost her and her family dearly.
This is the first book of an upcoming series.
This is the first book of an upcoming series.
April 17, 2016
I loved this book! It's a quick read, but it sticks with you. Though it has a large cast of characters, the author does a great job of bringing them all to life. Ginn's love of basketball and her relationship to her adoptive family made her easy to relate to. I've had the privilege of a sneak peak at the sequel, and I can vouch that it's even more fun. ;-)
July 31, 2013
This is a heart warming story of a young teen girl trying to learn all she can about her new found heritage. Very good storyline. Loved it!! Can't wait for the next novel!
September 5, 2013
I loved it! Good story, well thought out. Genies have been lacking in fantasy literature. I can't wait for the next book.
August 12, 2013
I won this book as a Goodreads First Reads.
Good book. Enjoyable story about Ginn discovering she is a djinn. Great for middle schoolers.
Good book. Enjoyable story about Ginn discovering she is a djinn. Great for middle schoolers.
March 11, 2015
I enjoyed writing it anyway...
January 25, 2017
I loved this book. It was great! I can't wait to read the next one.
July 10, 2018
loved it!!!
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April 16, 2017I received this book free through a giveaway.
An interesting read, quick and to the point. Imaginative and well crafted. Perhaps the hero managed to prevail a little too quickly and a little too easily but that doesn't interfere with the enjoyability of the read. I would recommend it for a quick read between more studious endeavours.
An interesting read, quick and to the point. Imaginative and well crafted. Perhaps the hero managed to prevail a little too quickly and a little too easily but that doesn't interfere with the enjoyability of the read. I would recommend it for a quick read between more studious endeavours.
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