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Undraland #1
Undraland
After her parents and twin brother died a year ago, Lucy Kincaid was determined to put together a normal life for herself. With her heart set on college life, Lucy’s dreams of medical school are dashed when a rabid bear attacks her in the middle of suburbia. When Jens, a handsome yet irritable stranger, saves her life, Lucy’s gratitude is cut short when he abducts her, taking her to a land filled with people and creatures she remembers from bedtime stories she assumed were just Scandinavian folklore.
Jens takes Lucy to a world she never expected, and cannot escape. Undraland is teeming with oversized garden gnomes, warrior elves, Nøkken, Fossegrimens, and worst of all, Sirens. Lucy goes further and further down the rabbit hole until she signs up to join a band of thieves bent on taking down Pesta, the last Siren.
Jens takes Lucy to a world she never expected, and cannot escape. Undraland is teeming with oversized garden gnomes, warrior elves, Nøkken, Fossegrimens, and worst of all, Sirens. Lucy goes further and further down the rabbit hole until she signs up to join a band of thieves bent on taking down Pesta, the last Siren.
336 pages, ebook
First published April 19, 2015
975 people are currently reading
2824 people want to read
About the author
Mary E. Twomey
116 books372 followersUSA Today bestselling author Mary E. Twomey lives in Michigan with her three adorable children. She enjoys reading, writing, vegetarian cooking, and telling her children fantastic stories about wombats.
While she loves writing fantasy, dystopian, and paranormal tales for her readers, Mary also writes romance under the name Tuesday Embers.
Visit her online at www.maryetwomey.com.
While she loves writing fantasy, dystopian, and paranormal tales for her readers, Mary also writes romance under the name Tuesday Embers.
Visit her online at www.maryetwomey.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
November 27, 2016
Initial premise and first few chapters were solid and interesting. So why did I abandon this book?
The super Stockholm Abusive Stalker relationship between the two main characters. He is always following her, bossing her around, telling her what to do. And she is supposedly pissed off about it, which is supposed to make her a strong character, but she tolerates and encourages the behavior.
About 75% in, when the plot is getting even more convoluted, the love interest follows her outside, yells at her for taking a walk, and physically intimidates her by getting in her face, her newly found brother sticks up for her and says "he shouldn't be talking to you like that" Was her response to say "thank you for having my back?" Nope! It was "That was his way of showing he cares!"
I'm done. There is no place in my brain that will accept domestic violence (cause that is what it is) as facet of romance.
The super Stockholm Abusive Stalker relationship between the two main characters. He is always following her, bossing her around, telling her what to do. And she is supposedly pissed off about it, which is supposed to make her a strong character, but she tolerates and encourages the behavior.
About 75% in, when the plot is getting even more convoluted, the love interest follows her outside, yells at her for taking a walk, and physically intimidates her by getting in her face, her newly found brother sticks up for her and says "he shouldn't be talking to you like that" Was her response to say "thank you for having my back?" Nope! It was "That was his way of showing he cares!"
I'm done. There is no place in my brain that will accept domestic violence (cause that is what it is) as facet of romance.
November 5, 2016
I chose this book to cover a challenge in the Read Your E-reader read-a-thon. I was not sure about this book at all since I really don't do all that well with urban fantasy, but I did really enjoy the story quite a bit. I found it interesting for sure. I received this book for free from Amazon and it was definitely worth the read.
Synopsis
After her parents and twin brother died a year ago, Lucy Kincaid was determined to put together a normal life for herself. With her heart set on college life, Lucy’s dreams of medical school are dashed when a rabid bear attacks her in the middle of suburbia. When Jens, a handsome yet irritable stranger, saves her life, Lucy’s gratitude is cut short when he abducts her, taking her to a land filled with people and creatures she remembers from bedtime stories she assumed were just Scandinavian folklore.
Jens takes Lucy to a world she never expected, and cannot escape. Undraland is teeming with oversized garden gnomes, warrior elves, Nøkken, Fossegrimens, and worst of all, Sirens. Lucy goes further and further down the rabbit hole until she signs up to join a band of thieves bent on taking down Pesta, the last Siren.
Like I stated in the beginning of this review, I was not real sure about reading this book, but the plot was really intriguing and sucked me in from the start. Readers meet a lot of different magical creatures and such in Undraland. I found that the pacing was exceptional in this story which made the book go really fast for me. It was easy to follow and completely swept me away because it was so engaging. There are a lot of different element in this book for readers to enjoy. Mystery, magic, romance and much more. There is a pretty huge cliffhanger that leaves me wanting more of the story.
I really enjoyed all the characters, my favorite of course being Lucy. She is a pretty strong spirited character and she does not take much from others, she speaks her mind when necessary. Jens, the male protagonist got on my nerves from time to time because he is kind of harsh at times where Lucy is concerned. I think though as you read you understand why he says what he says or does what he does. This is not a book where you take the situation too seriously because it is simply a story IMO. There are several characters in this story and you have to decide who you trust and who you do not and hope for the best. I am on the fence about a couple of characters, so we will see once I continue on with the story.
Synopsis
After her parents and twin brother died a year ago, Lucy Kincaid was determined to put together a normal life for herself. With her heart set on college life, Lucy’s dreams of medical school are dashed when a rabid bear attacks her in the middle of suburbia. When Jens, a handsome yet irritable stranger, saves her life, Lucy’s gratitude is cut short when he abducts her, taking her to a land filled with people and creatures she remembers from bedtime stories she assumed were just Scandinavian folklore.
Jens takes Lucy to a world she never expected, and cannot escape. Undraland is teeming with oversized garden gnomes, warrior elves, Nøkken, Fossegrimens, and worst of all, Sirens. Lucy goes further and further down the rabbit hole until she signs up to join a band of thieves bent on taking down Pesta, the last Siren.
Like I stated in the beginning of this review, I was not real sure about reading this book, but the plot was really intriguing and sucked me in from the start. Readers meet a lot of different magical creatures and such in Undraland. I found that the pacing was exceptional in this story which made the book go really fast for me. It was easy to follow and completely swept me away because it was so engaging. There are a lot of different element in this book for readers to enjoy. Mystery, magic, romance and much more. There is a pretty huge cliffhanger that leaves me wanting more of the story.
I really enjoyed all the characters, my favorite of course being Lucy. She is a pretty strong spirited character and she does not take much from others, she speaks her mind when necessary. Jens, the male protagonist got on my nerves from time to time because he is kind of harsh at times where Lucy is concerned. I think though as you read you understand why he says what he says or does what he does. This is not a book where you take the situation too seriously because it is simply a story IMO. There are several characters in this story and you have to decide who you trust and who you do not and hope for the best. I am on the fence about a couple of characters, so we will see once I continue on with the story.
February 20, 2016
Holy mother of awesome! This book was bloody great, and if you don't read it, you're totally missing out. The characters were so amazing, and the authors writing was on par with some of the more big name YA writers. Way better than Stephanie Meyer, sorry not sorry.
Early on in the book there was a "kidnapped by super hot savior" scenario, and our main protagonist wasn't falling for it! She was just the right amount of pissed off, sarcastic, will a slight amount of trust in the guy who saved her after he gave her the family code word, but only a little! This book really was quite brilliant, and I'm sure the rest of the series is just the same.
Early on in the book there was a "kidnapped by super hot savior" scenario, and our main protagonist wasn't falling for it! She was just the right amount of pissed off, sarcastic, will a slight amount of trust in the guy who saved her after he gave her the family code word, but only a little! This book really was quite brilliant, and I'm sure the rest of the series is just the same.
January 22, 2018
Amusing love fights
Lucy is a normal girl with a normal life and great friends, but she is paranoid. Turns out she was right to be paranoid. I really felt for her having to deal with all the family secrets and death. The most enjoyable piece was her stormy connection to Jens. They fight like cats and dogs and its very amusing. Jens is a good male but he doesn't communicate well when it comes to Lucy. His brain seems to go all caveman which makes her go off. I like the world building and the other characters are great. The villain is a bit of a puppet master and it would have been cool to get some interraction instead of some bear and dog attacks. Even so, there was lots of excitement and adventure. I love quests.
Lucy is a normal girl with a normal life and great friends, but she is paranoid. Turns out she was right to be paranoid. I really felt for her having to deal with all the family secrets and death. The most enjoyable piece was her stormy connection to Jens. They fight like cats and dogs and its very amusing. Jens is a good male but he doesn't communicate well when it comes to Lucy. His brain seems to go all caveman which makes her go off. I like the world building and the other characters are great. The villain is a bit of a puppet master and it would have been cool to get some interraction instead of some bear and dog attacks. Even so, there was lots of excitement and adventure. I love quests.
November 9, 2021
is it possible to simultaneously live and hate a book this much, and love and hate characters this much? i didn’t think so but here i am literally not knowing whether this was a five star or a one star read.
October 16, 2015
As I read through the pages of Undraland I instantly fell in love. It has been a very long time since I have immersed myself into such a creatively crafted fantasy world. This adventure has endless spins and twists that keeps you on your toes. The author Mary E. Twomey has drawn each and every character in such a way that they all contribute to this thrilling plot. The protagonist, Lucy, is a lovable, witty woman who has lost her entire family, including her twin brother. Because of all the tragedy she has experienced she wants a normal, settled down life. Until a massive wild bear attacks her on her way home in the middle of town. As she tries to escape, a mysterious man appears, saving her life and in the process shatters her dream of normality. The slightly annoying stranger, Jens, then abducts her and plunges her into a world she could never have fathomed, and she cannot escape. As her life is tipped over the edge of normal into a place filled with gnomes, elves, and deadly sirens, she gangs up with a group of warriors set on destroying the last Siren, Pesta. Lucy uncovers the lies she has believed and journeys through the world of Undraland with an unexpected friend by her side the whole way. This plot will blow your mind into a new land that captivates your adventurous side. This story will give you whip lash. Warning: Make sure not to read in public you will burst into tears and laughter as this story takes you deeper into the mind of Lucy and the mysteries of Undraland. I am ecstatic to read the rest of the books in this series. Thank Mary E. Twomey for creating the world of Undraland.
May 11, 2015
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Seriously it was great definitely 5 stars.
I have three kids and I was hiding out in my bedroom so I could keep reading, and staying up late to finish chapters.
Meet Lucy a girl who has lost everybody she loves. Her parents died in an accident, her twin brother died of cancer and now she is finally settling in at college with a good friend when she is attacked by a crazy bear and rescued by a mysterious man who calls himself Jens and who knows way too much about her. Lucy soon finds herself in a world out storybooks with Giants and trolls, elves and gnomes.
Things aren't always what they seem and Lucy has to figure out who to trust and find out who she really is before its to late. In a world you never thought existed who can you believe in.
Jens is there every step of the way to protect Lucy even if it's from herself but at what price?
Jens & Lucy have explosive chemistry and they argue constantly and yet they have subtle moments of perfect understanding and love.
As far as secondary characters they are an amazing cast. I'm head over heels for Prince Jamie he is just the sweetest, kindest Prince you'll ever meet. Nik seems like he has a good story behind him and Jens sister is amazing.
Just be warned its a cliffhanger ending, but you won't have to wit long the second book is out the end of May :)
Can't wait to read the rest of the books!
Seriously it was great definitely 5 stars.
I have three kids and I was hiding out in my bedroom so I could keep reading, and staying up late to finish chapters.
Meet Lucy a girl who has lost everybody she loves. Her parents died in an accident, her twin brother died of cancer and now she is finally settling in at college with a good friend when she is attacked by a crazy bear and rescued by a mysterious man who calls himself Jens and who knows way too much about her. Lucy soon finds herself in a world out storybooks with Giants and trolls, elves and gnomes.
Things aren't always what they seem and Lucy has to figure out who to trust and find out who she really is before its to late. In a world you never thought existed who can you believe in.
Jens is there every step of the way to protect Lucy even if it's from herself but at what price?
Jens & Lucy have explosive chemistry and they argue constantly and yet they have subtle moments of perfect understanding and love.
As far as secondary characters they are an amazing cast. I'm head over heels for Prince Jamie he is just the sweetest, kindest Prince you'll ever meet. Nik seems like he has a good story behind him and Jens sister is amazing.
Just be warned its a cliffhanger ending, but you won't have to wit long the second book is out the end of May :)
Can't wait to read the rest of the books!
February 11, 2016
Lions, tigers and bears oh my, no scratch that gnomes, elves and weres oh my yes that’s better! Poor Lucy after losing her family she just wanted a normal college life and become a doctor. But no way this annoyingly hot man saves her life and then kidnaps her then takes her to a different world where everything in fairytales are true. She is now on a mission with a band of misfits to stop a crazy Siren, Pesta.
I loved loved this story. I love paranormal romance and when it is spun with a variety of characters it makes for a very fun read. Lucy was very loveable! She was so witty and was quick on her feet that she was very entertaining to read about. Jens was a hot mess, he was hot and cold one minute he treated Lucy like a person then the next I wanted to knock him out for his rudeness. Their banter or shall I say chemistry was very fun at times making their relationship seem at times endearing.
Lucy made so many friends along her journey and she made some enemies but it wasn’t anything she could not handle. Going from a lonely individual, her life has taken a strange turn that have brought so many new loves to her life.
I loved the author’s style of writing, she brought me into this world of make believe and I loved every minute of it. I cannot wait to continue this series as this oddly bunched group of eccentrics travel the land to stop Pesta.
I loved loved this story. I love paranormal romance and when it is spun with a variety of characters it makes for a very fun read. Lucy was very loveable! She was so witty and was quick on her feet that she was very entertaining to read about. Jens was a hot mess, he was hot and cold one minute he treated Lucy like a person then the next I wanted to knock him out for his rudeness. Their banter or shall I say chemistry was very fun at times making their relationship seem at times endearing.
Lucy made so many friends along her journey and she made some enemies but it wasn’t anything she could not handle. Going from a lonely individual, her life has taken a strange turn that have brought so many new loves to her life.
I loved the author’s style of writing, she brought me into this world of make believe and I loved every minute of it. I cannot wait to continue this series as this oddly bunched group of eccentrics travel the land to stop Pesta.
May 31, 2016
Did not like the relationship between the main characters . kinda abusive.
August 6, 2017
Not my cup of tea. The book is like a long chapter, with 9 more to follow.
June 25, 2018
I want to give this book 4.5 stars because it was a really good read. Very very creative! I think I was just stuck between super duper fantasy and realistic fantasy. Having to move from place to place several times a year because a mystical being was chasing after you because you had the only tool that could destroy what she built seems like realistic fantasy to me, the magical tool that everyone is looking for being a garden rake.... not so realistic. I was expecting a stone or a sword, a book something like that but still not taking away from the story.
I also felt like there was just so much going on in the story that it was a bit hard to keep everything seperated. Gnomes, we have garden gnomes and guardian gnomes, we have totmen which are the gnomes, we have dwarves, foss, we have kings and queens, we have a bag that can carry anything no matter the size, we have werebears, we have elves... etc. And all this was just in the very beginning of the book.
I am interested in seeing the relationship get better with Jens and Lucy and to see what other tidbits her parents didn't tell her about. Also Charles gives me the hibby jeebies as well, I am totally with Jens on this one, he is a bit weird.
I also felt like there was just so much going on in the story that it was a bit hard to keep everything seperated. Gnomes, we have garden gnomes and guardian gnomes, we have totmen which are the gnomes, we have dwarves, foss, we have kings and queens, we have a bag that can carry anything no matter the size, we have werebears, we have elves... etc. And all this was just in the very beginning of the book.
I am interested in seeing the relationship get better with Jens and Lucy and to see what other tidbits her parents didn't tell her about. Also Charles gives me the hibby jeebies as well, I am totally with Jens on this one, he is a bit weird.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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October 25, 2018
Ok, here's the thing. This book series is great. I really loved it and feel it's worthy of as 5 star rating for story and writing, yet I've given every book in this series a 3 star rating for one reason, and one reason only.
My pet peeve. Not one of the books in the series can stand alone. Each book ends abruptly in an unexpected place. This is not a book series, it's a SERIAL. BIG difference.
In a series, each book has a minor plot that is resolved in that book, and the major plot runs through all the books in the series, finding resolution at the end of the final book.
A serial, like this, is more like watching a soap opera where the story just continues with no resolution from day to day, or in this case from book to book.
I HATE that, and unless I know that going in I usually won't read beyond the first book. The only reason I read on this time is because I really enjoyed the first book and the others were available free through Kindle Unlimited to which I subscribe.
My pet peeve. Not one of the books in the series can stand alone. Each book ends abruptly in an unexpected place. This is not a book series, it's a SERIAL. BIG difference.
In a series, each book has a minor plot that is resolved in that book, and the major plot runs through all the books in the series, finding resolution at the end of the final book.
A serial, like this, is more like watching a soap opera where the story just continues with no resolution from day to day, or in this case from book to book.
I HATE that, and unless I know that going in I usually won't read beyond the first book. The only reason I read on this time is because I really enjoyed the first book and the others were available free through Kindle Unlimited to which I subscribe.
August 16, 2015
I loved Undraland! I was drawn in from the beginning and when it was done, I was left wanting more. (I must admit. that most of the time I found myself highlight the funny paragraphs that made me laugh and there were had been a lot of those)
Mary Twoney is an amazing writer with out of this world imagination. I have never read a book with gnomes in it, but she did a great job at making them into so much more than the normal gnome.
I tell you what, I will never look at gnomes the same way again. The cliffhanger left me in a spot that made me want to scream! I so need to know more and I really want to know what laplanding means.
Meet Lucy Kincaid, a girl who has lost everybody she loves. Her parents died in an accident, her twin brother died of cancer and now she is finally settling in at college with a good friend.
Al she longs for is a simple life; a home of her own with a white picket fence would do just nicely. But her hopes and dreams are dashed when she is attacked by a crazy bear and rescued by a mysterious man who calls himself Jens and who knows way too much about her. Lucy soon finds herself in a world out storybooks with Giants and trolls, elves and gnomes.
Jens knows that Lucy won't understand anything about Undra without explanations from someone she trusts. Undraland, a place remarkably similar to her Uncle Rick’s (Alrick) bedtime stories. Lucy, Discover a mythical world in peril, Lucy is quickly caught up in a scheme to defeat the last siren, Pesta.
Jens is there every step of the way to protect Lucy even if it's from herself but at what price?
Jens & Lucy have explosive chemistry and they argue constantly and yet they have subtle moments of perfect understanding and love.
Based on Scandinavian folklore, Undraland is a fast-paced adventure featuring an intrepid hero, a snarky heroine, and plenty of mythical creatures guaranteed to capture the readers imagination.
As far as secondary characters they are an amazing cast. I'm head over heels for Prince Jamie he is just the sweetest, kindest Prince you'll ever meet. Nik seems like he has a good story behind him and Jens sister is amazing. I really need the next book!
Mary Twoney is an amazing writer with out of this world imagination. I have never read a book with gnomes in it, but she did a great job at making them into so much more than the normal gnome.
I tell you what, I will never look at gnomes the same way again. The cliffhanger left me in a spot that made me want to scream! I so need to know more and I really want to know what laplanding means.
Meet Lucy Kincaid, a girl who has lost everybody she loves. Her parents died in an accident, her twin brother died of cancer and now she is finally settling in at college with a good friend.
Al she longs for is a simple life; a home of her own with a white picket fence would do just nicely. But her hopes and dreams are dashed when she is attacked by a crazy bear and rescued by a mysterious man who calls himself Jens and who knows way too much about her. Lucy soon finds herself in a world out storybooks with Giants and trolls, elves and gnomes.
Jens knows that Lucy won't understand anything about Undra without explanations from someone she trusts. Undraland, a place remarkably similar to her Uncle Rick’s (Alrick) bedtime stories. Lucy, Discover a mythical world in peril, Lucy is quickly caught up in a scheme to defeat the last siren, Pesta.
Jens is there every step of the way to protect Lucy even if it's from herself but at what price?
Jens & Lucy have explosive chemistry and they argue constantly and yet they have subtle moments of perfect understanding and love.
Based on Scandinavian folklore, Undraland is a fast-paced adventure featuring an intrepid hero, a snarky heroine, and plenty of mythical creatures guaranteed to capture the readers imagination.
As far as secondary characters they are an amazing cast. I'm head over heels for Prince Jamie he is just the sweetest, kindest Prince you'll ever meet. Nik seems like he has a good story behind him and Jens sister is amazing. I really need the next book!
May 7, 2015
Clever, whitty, and imaginative, Undraland by Mary Twomey is a thoroughly enjoyable, fast-paced read.
This Urban Fantasy follows the adventures of Lucy Kincaid, a well-written, snarky, easily relatable college student who has endured terrible loss, as she discovers wonderful truths about herself and the world around her.
It took me a chapter to get into rhythm with the Author's very modern voice, but the rest of the book was definitely worth the effort. Think the love-child of The Hobbit, Cassandra Claire, and Charlaine Harris, but from the perspective of a woman.
I must, therefore, admit that I'm hooked for life! My only regret is that the next book is not yet complete.
I will not go into deeper detail as I do not want to spoil the discovery of Undraland's well thought out and fascinating world of handsome men, magic, swords, fun takes on the classic fantasy races, and just the right amount of romance!
4/5 stars only because I reserve 5 stars for books like 1984 and shakespeare
-SGS, Artist and Author of History of the Acelian Empire Book 1: Acelia
This Urban Fantasy follows the adventures of Lucy Kincaid, a well-written, snarky, easily relatable college student who has endured terrible loss, as she discovers wonderful truths about herself and the world around her.
It took me a chapter to get into rhythm with the Author's very modern voice, but the rest of the book was definitely worth the effort. Think the love-child of The Hobbit, Cassandra Claire, and Charlaine Harris, but from the perspective of a woman.
I must, therefore, admit that I'm hooked for life! My only regret is that the next book is not yet complete.
I will not go into deeper detail as I do not want to spoil the discovery of Undraland's well thought out and fascinating world of handsome men, magic, swords, fun takes on the classic fantasy races, and just the right amount of romance!
4/5 stars only because I reserve 5 stars for books like 1984 and shakespeare
-SGS, Artist and Author of History of the Acelian Empire Book 1: Acelia
May 12, 2015
I received an ARC for a free copy from the author.
I love the premise of this book, although I have to admit, the delicate human female surrounded by mystical, powerful beings trope is getting a bit old, so I gave it a chance. I struggled through the first couple pages, because when Lucy interacted with her college friend, they were a bit immature, although hilarious. That was my only complaint.
I loved this book and read it in a day. It would have been one sitting, but thanks to the kids, I had to break it up and make it last an entire day.
I truly loved all of the characters; Mary Twomey created a complex world with a fantastic history, added some new characters that I'd never heard of or considered as heroes (Gnomes, really?) and revamped a bunch of other races. Her writing is tight, action packed and hilarious. I laughed at least once a page and the forbidden romance developed naturally. It's a complete book with no cliffhanger (thank you, Mary!) but the way it ends... I'll definitely be buying the second book ASAP because I have to know what happens next!
I love the premise of this book, although I have to admit, the delicate human female surrounded by mystical, powerful beings trope is getting a bit old, so I gave it a chance. I struggled through the first couple pages, because when Lucy interacted with her college friend, they were a bit immature, although hilarious. That was my only complaint.
I loved this book and read it in a day. It would have been one sitting, but thanks to the kids, I had to break it up and make it last an entire day.
I truly loved all of the characters; Mary Twomey created a complex world with a fantastic history, added some new characters that I'd never heard of or considered as heroes (Gnomes, really?) and revamped a bunch of other races. Her writing is tight, action packed and hilarious. I laughed at least once a page and the forbidden romance developed naturally. It's a complete book with no cliffhanger (thank you, Mary!) but the way it ends... I'll definitely be buying the second book ASAP because I have to know what happens next!
August 27, 2015
This was an AWESOME read! Very glad I got the chance to read this book :)
You get draw into the book very quickly and the book doesn't slow down, it's filled with a quite a few twists and turns. It was the first book I read by this author, and I don't think it'll be the last one!
The main character Lucy is a spunky, fun character with a lot of attitude but it works perfectly in this story. She really works well in the fantastical environment that she becomes a part of, and I really enjoyed seeing her journey in this book. Storybook creatures come into her life after meeting a mysterious stranger, Jens, and it just gets better and better.
All in all, awesome book! I laughed with the character, and cried with her. I was completely engrossed in the story, and I completely loved it! Completely a 5 star read, but be warned, there is a cliffhanger ending!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
You get draw into the book very quickly and the book doesn't slow down, it's filled with a quite a few twists and turns. It was the first book I read by this author, and I don't think it'll be the last one!
The main character Lucy is a spunky, fun character with a lot of attitude but it works perfectly in this story. She really works well in the fantastical environment that she becomes a part of, and I really enjoyed seeing her journey in this book. Storybook creatures come into her life after meeting a mysterious stranger, Jens, and it just gets better and better.
All in all, awesome book! I laughed with the character, and cried with her. I was completely engrossed in the story, and I completely loved it! Completely a 5 star read, but be warned, there is a cliffhanger ending!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fan Site: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.NG***
July 19, 2016
Undraland is land full of magical creatures. You have elves, dwarves, gnomes and much more. Lucy is taken to Undraland after weres (werebears and weredogs) keep trying to attack her. There is so much about Lucy's life that is not as she knew it. Her family kept a lot of secrets from her. Not to mention that there is a siren after her. She is trying to piece together what is real, what family she has left and what she needs to do to survive.
This book has me intrigued. The series has real possibilities. Of course, the author left the ending hanging to make you want to read book 2. I wish the author hadn't drug out the beginning so much. Just as the book was getting interesting, it ended abruptly. I did like the way Jens & Lucy were together. She always had a sarcastic and funny reply for him.
This book has me intrigued. The series has real possibilities. Of course, the author left the ending hanging to make you want to read book 2. I wish the author hadn't drug out the beginning so much. Just as the book was getting interesting, it ended abruptly. I did like the way Jens & Lucy were together. She always had a sarcastic and funny reply for him.
November 30, 2015
Undraland is such a cool place and Jens is haaaaawwwt with an interesting attitude. Poor Lucy must feel like Alice, but there were times when she was a little annoying and childish with what was going on. I understand that it's a strange thing to go through a change in worlds and customs but there's a difference in being taken back and being unreasonable.
It was an overall fun read with fun characters, though this whole thing reminded me a little of Lord of the Rings. As I read on, however, the characters had their own voice and I was able to see them rather than that redheaded dwarf or Orlando Bloom. I'd take a chance on this.
It was an overall fun read with fun characters, though this whole thing reminded me a little of Lord of the Rings. As I read on, however, the characters had their own voice and I was able to see them rather than that redheaded dwarf or Orlando Bloom. I'd take a chance on this.
June 11, 2018
Sweet find
I'm glad I stumbled across this book. I usually hate when people make pop culture references in books bc it feels like piggybacking on another story, but the way Miss Twomey did it was refreshingly funny. The story was really interesting. I loved that the characters had an actual plan instead of making rash decisions and putting themselves in unnecessary danger. Lucy is very independent and strong willed, but she also uses her brain. She is very fleshed out making her seem like a real person. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one!
I'm glad I stumbled across this book. I usually hate when people make pop culture references in books bc it feels like piggybacking on another story, but the way Miss Twomey did it was refreshingly funny. The story was really interesting. I loved that the characters had an actual plan instead of making rash decisions and putting themselves in unnecessary danger. Lucy is very independent and strong willed, but she also uses her brain. She is very fleshed out making her seem like a real person. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one!
August 9, 2025
Gripping, fun and enchanting
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish and loved delving into the world of Undra. I loved the dynamics of the characters in the books and cant wait to read the next one.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish and loved delving into the world of Undra. I loved the dynamics of the characters in the books and cant wait to read the next one.
June 17, 2017
This series is LONG but worth it, I read the whole thing in like a week. All of the characters are VERY strong (believable, that is), Lucy is amazing. I was sort of surprised at how much I liked her, she's probably my favorite MC I've read in a very long time.
The violence and content are graphic at times, and the situations could be silly occasionally if they weren't written so well. I thought perhaps the rest of Mary Twomey's books would be this good, but they really weren't.
It's true that at first the relationship between Lucy and Jens is sort of creepy, but you understand how it all works together as the series progresses. He doesn't kidnap her, he's her bodyguard, and she wasn't allowed to know he was there for five years so she doesn't know him when he appears but he knows her really well. It's a tough situation.
As the series goes on you see a weird dynamic between her and Foss, but you also understand why it's there and why it's so complicated. His curse is powerful and terrible, but I'm not sure he would have gotten the freedom from it he did (which wasn't perfect either) without Lucy there regardless of what Mace was doing to help.
I can't even talk about Charles Mace (sad, so sad). Let's just say it's another very complicated relationship and leave the rest for reading.
All the relationships in this series are complicated and pull your emotions around. One moment you love Jens, then next you want to beat the crap out of him (as if you could lol). One moment you begin to really hope for Foss as Lucy did, the next you want to slit his throat. In the end it comes together as it should, but you're left with weird feelings for both men. Foss is a legit monster most of the books, but as he begins to turn around you want it to be good and it really starts to look good. I won't spoil it though with too much explanation.
The only complaint I have is how Twomey portrayed Jaime in one of the last books. He was SO EVIL and the things she had him doing were SO EVIL that I found myself hating her a little and not being able to see Jaime the same ever again. Really messed with my head. Like yuck. She probably could have portrayed all that differently, but it was like she wanted to cram some sick sex stuff down your throat for some bizarro reason. Thumbs down on that. I definitely wouldn't let my teenage daughter read this.
The violence and content are graphic at times, and the situations could be silly occasionally if they weren't written so well. I thought perhaps the rest of Mary Twomey's books would be this good, but they really weren't.
It's true that at first the relationship between Lucy and Jens is sort of creepy, but you understand how it all works together as the series progresses. He doesn't kidnap her, he's her bodyguard, and she wasn't allowed to know he was there for five years so she doesn't know him when he appears but he knows her really well. It's a tough situation.
As the series goes on you see a weird dynamic between her and Foss, but you also understand why it's there and why it's so complicated. His curse is powerful and terrible, but I'm not sure he would have gotten the freedom from it he did (which wasn't perfect either) without Lucy there regardless of what Mace was doing to help.
I can't even talk about Charles Mace (sad, so sad). Let's just say it's another very complicated relationship and leave the rest for reading.
All the relationships in this series are complicated and pull your emotions around. One moment you love Jens, then next you want to beat the crap out of him (as if you could lol). One moment you begin to really hope for Foss as Lucy did, the next you want to slit his throat. In the end it comes together as it should, but you're left with weird feelings for both men. Foss is a legit monster most of the books, but as he begins to turn around you want it to be good and it really starts to look good. I won't spoil it though with too much explanation.
The only complaint I have is how Twomey portrayed Jaime in one of the last books. He was SO EVIL and the things she had him doing were SO EVIL that I found myself hating her a little and not being able to see Jaime the same ever again. Really messed with my head. Like yuck. She probably could have portrayed all that differently, but it was like she wanted to cram some sick sex stuff down your throat for some bizarro reason. Thumbs down on that. I definitely wouldn't let my teenage daughter read this.
November 13, 2018
Title: Undraland
Author: Mary E. Twomey
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal/Romance
**RECEIVED A FREE COPY FOR A HONEST REVIEW**
Quick storyline blurb: Lucy has lost her family and trying to regain a life while in mourning. Meets a hunky gnome and like Alice, ends up down the rabbit hole. Finds out who she thought her parents were they were not. Now reality isn't even what she thought it was.
I truly like this book even though I have issues with it. I even plan on getting book 2 in the series. Lucy and the gnome Jen are interesting characters. I feel they gained in favor as the book goes on. At one point I felt the characters were like incoherent children. Sarcasm you don't understand and disjointed conversations. It left something to be desired. By the cliffhanger of an ending the sarcasm was better understood and spoken conversations followed along with character thoughts, etc...so that area of the writing improved.
Question: are we supposed to believe Lucy hides behind sarcasm but still is so accepting of all this fantasy stuff? Guess it is Alice and that rabbit hole and/or looking glass.
OH!!! Need a better job at explaining "people". So many foriegn words and concepts it slows down reading time and enjoyment. Seriously I forgot what kind of mythological being a lot of characters are and just read as if they are people. Seven feet tall and as big as a boulder but just people.
Yeah, there are funny moments and I liked that. I don't like how the characters, mainly Lucy, seem childish. Giving one guy a peck as he goes off to battle but refuses her love interest? Then blame her uncle for her and her family not being safe (they are dead and she is being hunted) when he says he will keep her safe. That gutted him. Grow-up and act it. Sheesh. But the story is interesting so I will read book 2.
Author: Mary E. Twomey
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal/Romance
**RECEIVED A FREE COPY FOR A HONEST REVIEW**
Quick storyline blurb: Lucy has lost her family and trying to regain a life while in mourning. Meets a hunky gnome and like Alice, ends up down the rabbit hole. Finds out who she thought her parents were they were not. Now reality isn't even what she thought it was.
I truly like this book even though I have issues with it. I even plan on getting book 2 in the series. Lucy and the gnome Jen are interesting characters. I feel they gained in favor as the book goes on. At one point I felt the characters were like incoherent children. Sarcasm you don't understand and disjointed conversations. It left something to be desired. By the cliffhanger of an ending the sarcasm was better understood and spoken conversations followed along with character thoughts, etc...so that area of the writing improved.
Question: are we supposed to believe Lucy hides behind sarcasm but still is so accepting of all this fantasy stuff? Guess it is Alice and that rabbit hole and/or looking glass.
OH!!! Need a better job at explaining "people". So many foriegn words and concepts it slows down reading time and enjoyment. Seriously I forgot what kind of mythological being a lot of characters are and just read as if they are people. Seven feet tall and as big as a boulder but just people.
Yeah, there are funny moments and I liked that. I don't like how the characters, mainly Lucy, seem childish. Giving one guy a peck as he goes off to battle but refuses her love interest? Then blame her uncle for her and her family not being safe (they are dead and she is being hunted) when he says he will keep her safe. That gutted him. Grow-up and act it. Sheesh. But the story is interesting so I will read book 2.
August 11, 2017
Its a fast read which is good, but the relationship between Jen and Lucy is kind of on the sexist side and Jen is very domineering and uses what he know about her to either calm her down or manipulate her mentally while he holds back as much info about himself as possible , plus there is no attempt to help Lucy understand anything about the new world she is suddenly plopped into so she has culture shock which might explain why she is going bratty as a defensive mode also how can anyone not have a hat or even think of offering Lucy a hat just in the off chance it will make her less blind to their sun so lets have her be dependent on other people then get treated like crap for that and then finally have her new found brother heal her eyes. Their is also the fact that she and her new found brother are half breeds which means they are not treated right Tor keeps calling Lucy a useless human and Jens pet rat but if we where to plop Tor in Lucy's world he might feel how Lucy does in his world overwhelmed. If Charles had the comments around him that Lucy does and then he had a dog collar on for I'm guessing his whole life he might have mental issues which when Lucy stands up for him might give a distorted view on some stuff. There is plot holes and more but I can only nitpick so much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2019
2.5 stars. Okay, there was adventure and that's the only reason I kept reading. I got through book 5 but I don't think I can do more. Way too many plot holes. The author would throw in plot twists for excitement, but then didn't work them through the rest of the story consistently. It seemed the little details would appear when it was convenient and disappear when it wasn't. It's all in the details for me; people get injured (Jens in the beginning with the gash she stitched, for starters) and then they're suddenly fine and able to carryon like nothing is amiss. I probably should have tried harder to write a review after each book, but I really just wanted to try to try to get them. No one sticks up for Lucy when she's called useless and rat continually; no one wants to explain anything to her; it takes her way too long to even contemplate asking "why" she was taken and being chased by were animals; and, this one bugged me so much, she and Mace are full blood related, why he is mentioned as her half-brother is beyond me and irritated me to no end. In my opinion, it needs a good dose of editing. Also, Lucy acted like a whiny child for so much of it. Literally huffing and demanding that someone take her home immediately. Couldn't do it anymore.
December 29, 2019
I've just read the first five books of this series. As usual, I got the first one for free, then it had me hooked so I ended up buying the rest. (Technically, there are four further books in the series, but the story seemed to end nicely there, so I've stopped for now.)
Lucy is a normal human, with no magic of her own, who has a hard life after her parents and brother die, and gets transported to a different world, and discovers a mission that she needs to undertake with companions of a variety of races and temperaments.
Obviously, it's a fantasy book, and I would say it's aimed at teens and young adults. There is a lot of romance, but equally there is adventure and battles to save the day. Not everything goes well, and there are some darker issues explored within Undraland such as sexism, slave trade, discrimination, drugs and unfaithfulness. One thing I particularly liked about this book is that it contains no sex, so I'd feel comfortable with older children/teens reading it. There is a lot of kissing and a bit of rolling around on the bed... but the heroine is a virgin and it's not considered a negative thing.
So yes, I enjoyed it enough to keep buying the next book to see what happened next. It's not a difficult read, and I could read a book in a day or two.
Lucy is a normal human, with no magic of her own, who has a hard life after her parents and brother die, and gets transported to a different world, and discovers a mission that she needs to undertake with companions of a variety of races and temperaments.
Obviously, it's a fantasy book, and I would say it's aimed at teens and young adults. There is a lot of romance, but equally there is adventure and battles to save the day. Not everything goes well, and there are some darker issues explored within Undraland such as sexism, slave trade, discrimination, drugs and unfaithfulness. One thing I particularly liked about this book is that it contains no sex, so I'd feel comfortable with older children/teens reading it. There is a lot of kissing and a bit of rolling around on the bed... but the heroine is a virgin and it's not considered a negative thing.
So yes, I enjoyed it enough to keep buying the next book to see what happened next. It's not a difficult read, and I could read a book in a day or two.
March 16, 2018
First in series and first read by this author.
In all honesty I read the premise... saw gnome and had to read.
Lucy is a college student, after the death of her twin brother from a long fight with cancer and her parents death in a car crash. She has finally settled down into a small apartment with two friends. A regular 20 year old trying to get her life together after tragedy.
But it’s not to be... after being attacked by a bear in the way home and saved by a handsome guy in black, aforementioned handsome guy is jens... he’s here to protect her and kidnaps her! To take her to her ‘uncle’ rick who is in Undraland.
Turns out jens is a guardian gnome, uncle rick ( alarick ) is an elf and she’s not a regular girl as she thought she was. In fact Lucy finds out that there is a whole lot going on and gone on that she has been kept in the dark about.
This book is packed full of action, mystery and intrigue. Nefarious plots and slow burning chemistry.
Whilst also being a fantastically fast paced epic fantasy romp in mythical creature land, with a fellowship of rake mission and a menagerie of charachters.
I enjoyed this book so much and it was a refreshingly different read.
In all honesty I read the premise... saw gnome and had to read.
Lucy is a college student, after the death of her twin brother from a long fight with cancer and her parents death in a car crash. She has finally settled down into a small apartment with two friends. A regular 20 year old trying to get her life together after tragedy.
But it’s not to be... after being attacked by a bear in the way home and saved by a handsome guy in black, aforementioned handsome guy is jens... he’s here to protect her and kidnaps her! To take her to her ‘uncle’ rick who is in Undraland.
Turns out jens is a guardian gnome, uncle rick ( alarick ) is an elf and she’s not a regular girl as she thought she was. In fact Lucy finds out that there is a whole lot going on and gone on that she has been kept in the dark about.
This book is packed full of action, mystery and intrigue. Nefarious plots and slow burning chemistry.
Whilst also being a fantastically fast paced epic fantasy romp in mythical creature land, with a fellowship of rake mission and a menagerie of charachters.
I enjoyed this book so much and it was a refreshingly different read.
January 5, 2019
Are the characters twenty or fifteen?
I got to 60% and then threw my hands up and walked away. I mean it’s an okay storyline that kept me interested however the characters were just soo meh and annoying. It’s like how many times does Lucy and Jens have to argue before they end up kissing? I mean honestly their romance was played out to the point where your screaming JUST GET IT ON AND MOVE ON! I’m pretty sure they achieve their goal in the end to help all races/worlds from the evil Siren Queen lady because it really didn’t seem like it was that hard to do the first time when Jens used the rake even with Lucy hyperventilating and whining 99% of the time. I’m sure this is a lot of people’s cup of tea and I’m not discouraging anyone from buying this book because I mean I did read half of it but just be warned of the adults acting as hormonal teenagers and barbaric He-man tendencies
I got to 60% and then threw my hands up and walked away. I mean it’s an okay storyline that kept me interested however the characters were just soo meh and annoying. It’s like how many times does Lucy and Jens have to argue before they end up kissing? I mean honestly their romance was played out to the point where your screaming JUST GET IT ON AND MOVE ON! I’m pretty sure they achieve their goal in the end to help all races/worlds from the evil Siren Queen lady because it really didn’t seem like it was that hard to do the first time when Jens used the rake even with Lucy hyperventilating and whining 99% of the time. I’m sure this is a lot of people’s cup of tea and I’m not discouraging anyone from buying this book because I mean I did read half of it but just be warned of the adults acting as hormonal teenagers and barbaric He-man tendencies
June 27, 2023
This isn’t just a cliffhanger, but the book just ends. It’s a good thing I have the first 3 books, or I’d have been annoyed enough to not continue. Lucy has lost her twin brother Linus and parents, and then finds out she’s connected to Undraland, a place of mythological beings. With her guardian gnome, Jens, she becomes part of a group on a quest to thwart the evil plans of Siren Pesta. Everything she’s known is gone, except for her “Uncle Rick” who turns out to be an influential elf. She and Jens have good chemistry. I like their love story. He’s watched her, kept her safe for years, falling in love with her along the way and now she’s catching up. Lucy is a good heroine. She is scared and flawed but willing to try to be strong. The world building is good, although there are a lot of different races and keeping track of them is sometimes difficult. I was really annoyed by the cliffhanger ending.
March 23, 2019
Okay, this book was fun!
I know that certain aspects of the characters and the plot were borderline juvenile, but oddly enough, I loved Jens and Lucy so much that I didn’t care. Haha, I think it was that little oddity that kept me coming back. I loved the fact that I could not predict what they would do next! Every sentence held its own little nugget or surprise and I just HAD to uncover it! I like the storyline and its originality, I can honestly say I’ve never read anything like it. Werebears, the Land of Be, and garden gnomes, oh my! Twomey’s blend of curses, flirtation, and unanswered questions has me in such a tizzy that I have to know what happens next! AND THAT CLIFF HANGER!!!! O.o ...Seriously caught me off guard there Twomey, well done! I can’t just leave my little band of thieves hanging, count me in for the rest of their journey.
I know that certain aspects of the characters and the plot were borderline juvenile, but oddly enough, I loved Jens and Lucy so much that I didn’t care. Haha, I think it was that little oddity that kept me coming back. I loved the fact that I could not predict what they would do next! Every sentence held its own little nugget or surprise and I just HAD to uncover it! I like the storyline and its originality, I can honestly say I’ve never read anything like it. Werebears, the Land of Be, and garden gnomes, oh my! Twomey’s blend of curses, flirtation, and unanswered questions has me in such a tizzy that I have to know what happens next! AND THAT CLIFF HANGER!!!! O.o ...Seriously caught me off guard there Twomey, well done! I can’t just leave my little band of thieves hanging, count me in for the rest of their journey.
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