What do you think?
Rate this book
The Legendary Rosaries #1
Stella Maris
At her first Confirmation lesson, Catherine Lovich is given a beautiful rosary known as the Stella Maris. Unaware of the danger attached to it, she accepts the gift, soon discovering that each bead on the rosary holds a unique power, powers that only Merges can use. Descended from angels and demons, Merges have the innate ability to manipulate the elements as well as bring the past to the present through dreams.
After meeting Christopher Laboure on her first day back at Agnaru High, Catherine learns that the arrogant but heavenly-looking boy is a Merge—like herself. But unlike Catherine, Christopher is a Seraph, a Merge who controls the fire beads.
When a heated kiss goes wrong, Christopher finds out that Catherine is wearing the Stella Maris—the water rosary his grandfather wants to destroy.
Along with its owner.
STELLA MARIS will transport you into a realm where nothing is what it seems and everything holds hidden danger.
After meeting Christopher Laboure on her first day back at Agnaru High, Catherine learns that the arrogant but heavenly-looking boy is a Merge—like herself. But unlike Catherine, Christopher is a Seraph, a Merge who controls the fire beads.
When a heated kiss goes wrong, Christopher finds out that Catherine is wearing the Stella Maris—the water rosary his grandfather wants to destroy.
Along with its owner.
STELLA MARIS will transport you into a realm where nothing is what it seems and everything holds hidden danger.
548 pages, Paperback
Published September 29, 2017
3 people are currently reading
962 people want to read
About the author
Marita A. Hansen
100 books855 followersSOME FACTS ABOUT ME:
I'm a New Zealander from Auckland, with dual citizenship (NZ and Croatia). I've also lived in Kerikeri, Singapore and Papua New Guinea.
CAREER PATH: I started off as a Graphic Designer, then went to Auckland University, where I got a BA degree in Art History and Italian Studies and a post-graduate Honors degree in Art History. I worked in the Art History field, then became a full-time artist, doing commissions. I eventually lost all of my senses and gave it up to be a self-published writer, publishing my first book in 2011. Though, earlier in 2023 I returned to art, shelving being a writer since book pirates made it impossible to earn a living from my work, excessively pirating my books. They basically broke my spirit. However, a very nice reader spurred me on to try again, so I'm attempting to revive my writing career.
BAD HABITS: I'm a major procrastinator, I stay up way too late, and I get distracted far too easily unless it's doing something I love. My mind never stops racing, can't turn ADHD off.
SPORTS: As a teenager my favourite sports were karate, badminton, and running. I also did unarmed combat and played in a touch rugby team (my gym teacher made me do the last one!) As an adult, I've couched soccer and have completed two marathons, numerous half-marathons and one 30K run, though I stick to the gym now, hanging up my running shoes.
STATUS: Married to my high school sweetheart (which he hates me calling him). We have two kids.
Author Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Marita-A-Han...
I'm a New Zealander from Auckland, with dual citizenship (NZ and Croatia). I've also lived in Kerikeri, Singapore and Papua New Guinea.
CAREER PATH: I started off as a Graphic Designer, then went to Auckland University, where I got a BA degree in Art History and Italian Studies and a post-graduate Honors degree in Art History. I worked in the Art History field, then became a full-time artist, doing commissions. I eventually lost all of my senses and gave it up to be a self-published writer, publishing my first book in 2011. Though, earlier in 2023 I returned to art, shelving being a writer since book pirates made it impossible to earn a living from my work, excessively pirating my books. They basically broke my spirit. However, a very nice reader spurred me on to try again, so I'm attempting to revive my writing career.
BAD HABITS: I'm a major procrastinator, I stay up way too late, and I get distracted far too easily unless it's doing something I love. My mind never stops racing, can't turn ADHD off.
SPORTS: As a teenager my favourite sports were karate, badminton, and running. I also did unarmed combat and played in a touch rugby team (my gym teacher made me do the last one!) As an adult, I've couched soccer and have completed two marathons, numerous half-marathons and one 30K run, though I stick to the gym now, hanging up my running shoes.
STATUS: Married to my high school sweetheart (which he hates me calling him). We have two kids.
Author Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Marita-A-Han...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 26, 2017
Stella Maris has a solid foundation as a novel because the plot is quite intriguing and Hansen made the story very appealing; especially to those who are fond of paranormal topics, e.g. seraphims and fallen angels. I love the story, it's just that the pacing is slow and I can't believe that there will be a succeeding book after this.
I was anticipating the battle between Catherine and Christopher's father, which was put near the end and I'm a little dismay because it was not what I've expected it to be. I envisioned some action-pack duel among them but it was like a petty fight when I've read it.
One major complaint I have about this young adult fantasy novel of Marita A. Hansen is that it's quite long! I reckon I skipped almost 30% of the book because some parts are not really that important and could be remove without making any drastic effect to the novel.
Lastly, I believe that the author could have squeeze the whole story of Catherine and Christopher in one single novel. There's no need for second installment if Hansen would have omit trivial and dragging parts in this book, especially the numerous necking scenes of the two protagonist.
I was anticipating the battle between Catherine and Christopher's father, which was put near the end and I'm a little dismay because it was not what I've expected it to be. I envisioned some action-pack duel among them but it was like a petty fight when I've read it.
One major complaint I have about this young adult fantasy novel of Marita A. Hansen is that it's quite long! I reckon I skipped almost 30% of the book because some parts are not really that important and could be remove without making any drastic effect to the novel.
Lastly, I believe that the author could have squeeze the whole story of Catherine and Christopher in one single novel. There's no need for second installment if Hansen would have omit trivial and dragging parts in this book, especially the numerous necking scenes of the two protagonist.
Currently reading
August 28, 2017UPDATE: The proofreading is finished. I will be sending the book to the Netgalley organisers tomorrow for its September release. It will be available to Netgalley Reviewers from September 1, while it'll be available on Amazon September 29.
#Angels #Demons #Rosaries #ParanormalRomance #BadPriest #Nuns #Supernatural #YA/NA #Fantasy #1980's
My fourteen-year-old son has composed an original soundtrack for STELLA MARIS. The music has an eerie quality, reflecting the story’s paranormal element. Some of the compositons also have an 80’s feel. Here are the links to his compositions:
CATHERINE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
REPREBUS: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
SERAPHIM: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
HALO/ALONE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
THE BLUE ROSARY: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
BURNING (a violin and viola version of The Blue Rosary): https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
DELUGE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
FINALE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
For more of my son’s music: https://musescore.com/user/11487751
#YA/NA paranormal romance.
#Angels #Demons #Rosaries #ParanormalRomance #BadPriest #Nuns #Supernatural #YA/NA #Fantasy #1980's
My fourteen-year-old son has composed an original soundtrack for STELLA MARIS. The music has an eerie quality, reflecting the story’s paranormal element. Some of the compositons also have an 80’s feel. Here are the links to his compositions:
CATHERINE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
REPREBUS: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
SERAPHIM: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
HALO/ALONE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
THE BLUE ROSARY: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
BURNING (a violin and viola version of The Blue Rosary): https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
DELUGE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
FINALE: https://musescore.com/user/11487751/s...
For more of my son’s music: https://musescore.com/user/11487751
#YA/NA paranormal romance.
September 10, 2017
Stella Maris was a bit repetitious at the beginning but the premise was interesting and intriguing and kept me engrossed. I loved this world the author created and I'm looking forward to delving into it once again and catching up with these characters.
If you're a fan of paranormal reads I definitely recommend it. It brings something different to the table that lovers of the genre will not only find interesting but also enjoyable.
ARC provided by publisher through Net Galley in exchange for a honest review
If you're a fan of paranormal reads I definitely recommend it. It brings something different to the table that lovers of the genre will not only find interesting but also enjoyable.
ARC provided by publisher through Net Galley in exchange for a honest review
October 19, 2017
Catherine Lovich had given up on God when her sister was murdered. But she decides to go through with her confirmation for her family. At her first confirmation lesson she sees a new young man who seems to beautiful to be real. At the end of the lesson she is given a special rosary that is known as the Stella Maris. She doesn't understand the gift but accepts it without realizing she has now put herself on a path that there is no return from. The rosary holds special powers for the person who wears it but it takes a special bred to unlock those powers. Catherine learns the young man from the first confirmation lesson is Christopher Laboure. They both possess a strong attraction to one another that Catherine finds hard to resist though she tries to stay away. She finds that Christopher knows about the rosary & helps her to understand the power the rosary holds. But not everyone is happy that Catherine has been given the rosary & a battle of epic proportions is about to take shape. And Christopher holds the key to the survival of only being. Will he save Catherine or his family member bent on destroying her?
This was a beautiful story about angels & fallen angels & how they live among us. It is a departure from the author's usual writing about the lower classes in New Zealand. I truly enjoyed reading this upbeat & sometimes thrilling struggle young Catherine is undertaking to become what is meant to be. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I would truly recommend this book about faith, courage, young love & angst to anyone.
I voluntarily reviewed a Net Galley copy of this book.
This was a beautiful story about angels & fallen angels & how they live among us. It is a departure from the author's usual writing about the lower classes in New Zealand. I truly enjoyed reading this upbeat & sometimes thrilling struggle young Catherine is undertaking to become what is meant to be. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I would truly recommend this book about faith, courage, young love & angst to anyone.
I voluntarily reviewed a Net Galley copy of this book.
January 1, 2018
This review will be both in English and Italian
- Questa recensione è sia in inglese che in italiano
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
- Ho ricevuto una ARC dell'autrice in cambio della mia opinione.
English
Stella Maris was a page-turner: fast, funny, interesting and even twisted at times.
I had very high expectations going into this book and they were pretty much met.
When Catherine receives a beautiful rosary from a nun, she discovers she's a Merge.
Merges are supernatural creatures descended from angels who can control the legendary rosaries and therefore magic. They can be Seraphim (fire angels and demons who control the fire beads), Halos (air Merges who control the healing beads), Terras (earth Merges who control the Harvest beads and can shapeshift), Marises (water angels and at times demons who control the water beads) and… Stellas (the legendary Merges considered a myth. They are only angels and can use all the rosaries).
Christopher, a boy she meets at her first Confirmation lesson, is a Seraph Merge, while he thinks Catherine is a Stella. The two Merges are immediately attracted to each other and that's when things start to get messy.
* The characters were well-depicted.
Catherine is not your typical YA female main character and at first you may think she is a bit rude, but who isn't flawed? Why does every female heroine have to be sweet, kind, and absolutely likable?
Chris is sexy, fun and the perfect male protagonist. When we first meet him he seems like the bad boy you see in every romance book, especially considering his approach to Catherine, but soon you start to realize he's not bad at all, he is just sexy as hell (special mention to his lip ring) and kind… so much so that you can't believe he grew up in such a dysfunctional family.
Reprebus, Chris’s grandfather, is a great villain and the flashbacks to his past were my favourite part of the book. He's a very complex character with a lot of issues.
A special mention goes to Nicky, Catherine's best friend. She's so fun and made me laugh the most with her rambles.
* The mythology was absolutely fascinating and well-explained.
We learn a lot about Merges and the legendary rosaries throughout the book, as well as Chris’s and Catherine’s backgrounds. We get a glimpse of her connection with her dead twin sister, Vesna, who was found burnt in a reserve. A tragic death that sounds terribly suspicious when Catherine finds out about the creatures which live in her world.
* The story unraveled very nicely, the romance was good and I will definitely read the sequel! I can't wait to find out more about Stephen, the Terra Merges and Vesna.
Good job, Marita!
Italiano
Stella Maris è un libro che si legge tutto d'un fiato. La storia è interessante e a tratti anche un po’ dark.
Le mie aspettative erano molto alte e devo dire che non sono state deluse, ma andiamo per ordine.
Quando Catherine riceve un rosario da una suora scopre di essere una Merge, creature soprannaturali in grado di controllare gli elementi servendosi dei rosari leggendari.
I Merge si dividono in Seraphim (che controllano il fuoco), Halo (che hanno poteri di guarigione), Terra (che tra le altre cose sono in grado di cambiare aspetto), Maris (che controllano l'acqua)... e gli Stella, Merge leggendari che sono considerati un mito, angeli puri in grado di controllare tutti i rosari leggendari.
A scuola Catherine conosce Christopher, un Seraph, che è convinto che la ragazza sia una Stella. I due si ritrovano subito attratti l’uno dall’altra ed è a quel punto che le cose si fanno complicate.
* I personaggi sono ben descritti.
Catherine non è la classica protagonista dolce e amabile, spesso è tutt'altro che gentile anche con i suoi amici (seppur non lo faccia in mala fede), ma è proprio questo suo difetto a renderla interessante.
Chris è sexy, simpatico e con un'aria da bad boy che non guasta mai (menzione speciale al suo piercing al labbro), tuttavia ha un carattere buono, e la cosa non è di poco conto considerando la famiglia disfunzionale in cui è cresciuto.
Poi c’è Reprebus, il nonno di Christopher e il cattivo della storia. Credo sia il personaggio più interessante e meglio riuscito: ho amato i flashback riguardo al suo passato, una delle mie parti preferite del libro. Un cattivo con la “C” maiuscola.
E infine la dolce Nicky, la migliore amica di Catherine. È così buffa e ingenua che non si può fare a meno di amarla. I suoi sproloqui in una scena in particolare mi hanno fatto morire dal ridere.
Questi sono solo alcuni. Conoscerete anche Antonio, Maria, Cristoforo, Stephen e Vesna.
* La mitologia è molto affascinante e ben spiegata. Nel corso del libro apprendiamo quello che c’è da sapere dei Merge, dei rosari leggendari, dei loro poteri e del passato di Cathy e Chris.
In particolare scopriamo che Catherine aveva una sorella gemella, Vesna, che è stata trovata bruciata viva due anni prima. La sua è una morte tragica che a Catherine comincia a sembrare parecchio sospetta una volta scoperta la presenza di creature magiche nel suo mondo.
* La storia si è sviluppata bene, la storia d'amore tra i due protagonisti mi è piaciuta e leggerò senz'altro il seguito, Terra. Non vedo l'ora di scoprire di più di Stephen, i Terra e Vesna.
Ottimo lavoro, Marita!
- Questa recensione è sia in inglese che in italiano
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
- Ho ricevuto una ARC dell'autrice in cambio della mia opinione.
English
Stella Maris was a page-turner: fast, funny, interesting and even twisted at times.
I had very high expectations going into this book and they were pretty much met.
When Catherine receives a beautiful rosary from a nun, she discovers she's a Merge.
Merges are supernatural creatures descended from angels who can control the legendary rosaries and therefore magic. They can be Seraphim (fire angels and demons who control the fire beads), Halos (air Merges who control the healing beads), Terras (earth Merges who control the Harvest beads and can shapeshift), Marises (water angels and at times demons who control the water beads) and… Stellas (the legendary Merges considered a myth. They are only angels and can use all the rosaries).
Christopher, a boy she meets at her first Confirmation lesson, is a Seraph Merge, while he thinks Catherine is a Stella. The two Merges are immediately attracted to each other and that's when things start to get messy.
* The characters were well-depicted.
Catherine is not your typical YA female main character and at first you may think she is a bit rude, but who isn't flawed? Why does every female heroine have to be sweet, kind, and absolutely likable?
Chris is sexy, fun and the perfect male protagonist. When we first meet him he seems like the bad boy you see in every romance book, especially considering his approach to Catherine, but soon you start to realize he's not bad at all, he is just sexy as hell (special mention to his lip ring) and kind… so much so that you can't believe he grew up in such a dysfunctional family.
Reprebus, Chris’s grandfather, is a great villain and the flashbacks to his past were my favourite part of the book. He's a very complex character with a lot of issues.
A special mention goes to Nicky, Catherine's best friend. She's so fun and made me laugh the most with her rambles.
* The mythology was absolutely fascinating and well-explained.
We learn a lot about Merges and the legendary rosaries throughout the book, as well as Chris’s and Catherine’s backgrounds. We get a glimpse of her connection with her dead twin sister, Vesna, who was found burnt in a reserve. A tragic death that sounds terribly suspicious when Catherine finds out about the creatures which live in her world.
* The story unraveled very nicely, the romance was good and I will definitely read the sequel! I can't wait to find out more about Stephen, the Terra Merges and Vesna.
Good job, Marita!
Italiano
Stella Maris è un libro che si legge tutto d'un fiato. La storia è interessante e a tratti anche un po’ dark.
Le mie aspettative erano molto alte e devo dire che non sono state deluse, ma andiamo per ordine.
Quando Catherine riceve un rosario da una suora scopre di essere una Merge, creature soprannaturali in grado di controllare gli elementi servendosi dei rosari leggendari.
I Merge si dividono in Seraphim (che controllano il fuoco), Halo (che hanno poteri di guarigione), Terra (che tra le altre cose sono in grado di cambiare aspetto), Maris (che controllano l'acqua)... e gli Stella, Merge leggendari che sono considerati un mito, angeli puri in grado di controllare tutti i rosari leggendari.
A scuola Catherine conosce Christopher, un Seraph, che è convinto che la ragazza sia una Stella. I due si ritrovano subito attratti l’uno dall’altra ed è a quel punto che le cose si fanno complicate.
* I personaggi sono ben descritti.
Catherine non è la classica protagonista dolce e amabile, spesso è tutt'altro che gentile anche con i suoi amici (seppur non lo faccia in mala fede), ma è proprio questo suo difetto a renderla interessante.
Chris è sexy, simpatico e con un'aria da bad boy che non guasta mai (menzione speciale al suo piercing al labbro), tuttavia ha un carattere buono, e la cosa non è di poco conto considerando la famiglia disfunzionale in cui è cresciuto.
Poi c’è Reprebus, il nonno di Christopher e il cattivo della storia. Credo sia il personaggio più interessante e meglio riuscito: ho amato i flashback riguardo al suo passato, una delle mie parti preferite del libro. Un cattivo con la “C” maiuscola.
E infine la dolce Nicky, la migliore amica di Catherine. È così buffa e ingenua che non si può fare a meno di amarla. I suoi sproloqui in una scena in particolare mi hanno fatto morire dal ridere.
Questi sono solo alcuni. Conoscerete anche Antonio, Maria, Cristoforo, Stephen e Vesna.
* La mitologia è molto affascinante e ben spiegata. Nel corso del libro apprendiamo quello che c’è da sapere dei Merge, dei rosari leggendari, dei loro poteri e del passato di Cathy e Chris.
In particolare scopriamo che Catherine aveva una sorella gemella, Vesna, che è stata trovata bruciata viva due anni prima. La sua è una morte tragica che a Catherine comincia a sembrare parecchio sospetta una volta scoperta la presenza di creature magiche nel suo mondo.
* La storia si è sviluppata bene, la storia d'amore tra i due protagonisti mi è piaciuta e leggerò senz'altro il seguito, Terra. Non vedo l'ora di scoprire di più di Stephen, i Terra e Vesna.
Ottimo lavoro, Marita!
September 10, 2017
The author sent me a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange of a honest review
Premise: well, I haven't read in English for a very long time, so I was a bit scared by the reading of a kinda big book, but luckily it was an amazing reading, not so difficult because of lexicon nor sintaxys.
By the way, I've just finished Stella Maris, the forthcoming book by Marita Hansen, an author I didn't know before. In a note, she says this was her very first book, written when she was young; the project was abandoned because no editors wanted to publish it; much years later, the Hansen drew the book out of the oblivion, finding and fixing parts that were pretty "immature". I liked her attachment to this story, a sort of mathernal behaviour toward her son-book.
The story is about Catherine, a 17yo who's given a weird blue rosary; when she investigates about the giver, she ends up talking with an old nun, Sister Cecile, who reveals the truth about the beads and Catherine herself: the girl is a Merge, a discendent of the Fallen Angels, and that rosary is one of the legendary rosaries, powerful artefacts linked to the four elements, that only Merges can control.
Here the "shocking" (and really appreciated) idea: stories about angels, demons et similia are not so rare, but, at least for me, this is the first time a common Christian object, a rosary, is used as a "magical" artefact; I really liked this idea: giving a simple object (even more if linked with religion, for a story about religious characters as angels) wondrous powers is very intriguing.
Back to the story: Catherine meets soon Chris, a boy veeeery self-confident, a bit stuck-up sometimes, a boy she feels something for. Chris is aware he's a Merge, but he also thinks Catherine's a demon, so their first encounters are not exactly lovely, but... love is in the air, folks!
Even if the two characters have some cliché elements, as well as their love story, I liked them: I mean, the cliché elements are fewer than the interesting ones.
The teens are both stubborn, sometimes too much: in some scenes I would have crushed their heads against the wall. I mean, for their stubbornnes some events become a total mess, the consequences are maybe a bit "exaggerated".
Chris' family is a total crap. I hate them. I don't know if they're just evil or just mentally limited. Poor Chris!
The plot-line is interesting, with new revelations, few cliffhangers and several twists. It's very easy reading pages after pages, thanks both to the fluent writing styles and the intriguing story. I would have liked more informations about the legendary rosaries and their use (I mean, something more about their creations, the spells Merges use etc.); I hope the author will give them in the next book.
I give this book 4/4.5 stars: it's a well written book, with an interesting story (I love stuff about angels and magic!), but there are some elements I'd fix: something about Catherine's and Chris' behaviours in some scenes (maybe too "drastic", with escapes and pursuits); something about the legendary rosaries; something about Chris' dad and grandad (again, their motivation for their behaviour are not so convincing, they're like capricious kids - Mooooom, I waaaant iiiiit! It's a yes because IIII say yeeees - and this is annoying).
In conclusion: the Hansen wrote a very nice book, giving a potentially classic plot new and interesting elements. I'm looking forward for reading the next book, Terra, coming in 2018!!
Premise: well, I haven't read in English for a very long time, so I was a bit scared by the reading of a kinda big book, but luckily it was an amazing reading, not so difficult because of lexicon nor sintaxys.
By the way, I've just finished Stella Maris, the forthcoming book by Marita Hansen, an author I didn't know before. In a note, she says this was her very first book, written when she was young; the project was abandoned because no editors wanted to publish it; much years later, the Hansen drew the book out of the oblivion, finding and fixing parts that were pretty "immature". I liked her attachment to this story, a sort of mathernal behaviour toward her son-book.
The story is about Catherine, a 17yo who's given a weird blue rosary; when she investigates about the giver, she ends up talking with an old nun, Sister Cecile, who reveals the truth about the beads and Catherine herself: the girl is a Merge, a discendent of the Fallen Angels, and that rosary is one of the legendary rosaries, powerful artefacts linked to the four elements, that only Merges can control.
Here the "shocking" (and really appreciated) idea: stories about angels, demons et similia are not so rare, but, at least for me, this is the first time a common Christian object, a rosary, is used as a "magical" artefact; I really liked this idea: giving a simple object (even more if linked with religion, for a story about religious characters as angels) wondrous powers is very intriguing.
Back to the story: Catherine meets soon Chris, a boy veeeery self-confident, a bit stuck-up sometimes, a boy she feels something for. Chris is aware he's a Merge, but he also thinks Catherine's a demon, so their first encounters are not exactly lovely, but... love is in the air, folks!
Even if the two characters have some cliché elements, as well as their love story, I liked them: I mean, the cliché elements are fewer than the interesting ones.
The teens are both stubborn, sometimes too much: in some scenes I would have crushed their heads against the wall. I mean, for their stubbornnes some events become a total mess, the consequences are maybe a bit "exaggerated".
Chris' family is a total crap. I hate them. I don't know if they're just evil or just mentally limited. Poor Chris!
The plot-line is interesting, with new revelations, few cliffhangers and several twists. It's very easy reading pages after pages, thanks both to the fluent writing styles and the intriguing story. I would have liked more informations about the legendary rosaries and their use (I mean, something more about their creations, the spells Merges use etc.); I hope the author will give them in the next book.
I give this book 4/4.5 stars: it's a well written book, with an interesting story (I love stuff about angels and magic!), but there are some elements I'd fix: something about Catherine's and Chris' behaviours in some scenes (maybe too "drastic", with escapes and pursuits); something about the legendary rosaries; something about Chris' dad and grandad (again, their motivation for their behaviour are not so convincing, they're like capricious kids - Mooooom, I waaaant iiiiit! It's a yes because IIII say yeeees - and this is annoying).
In conclusion: the Hansen wrote a very nice book, giving a potentially classic plot new and interesting elements. I'm looking forward for reading the next book, Terra, coming in 2018!!
September 9, 2017
Magical rosaries? Interesting.
Thank you Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
(Publication date: Sept 29 2017)
3.5 stars
Characters
I don't like Catherine that much because she's always insulting people. For example, Stephen, her ex. Although sometimes he can be quite stupid, he is actually kind. He tells Catherine about how Christopher is doing when he doesn't turn up at school and even provides shelter for Catherine and Christopher when they run away from home.
As for Christopher... *sigh* hello sexy. He's Italian, and always includes Italian words in his sentences, which I find so. Hot!
Romance
No no no no no. Christopher and Catherine have known each other for such a short time and they're already saying "I love you" to each other? No. How did that happen? Where did the chemistry go? #notfeelingthefeels
Setting
New Zealand? YAS.
More thoughts
-I'm very curious, where did Christopher's lip ring go? He "pocketed" it and never put it back on.
-I like that this story is told in multiple POVS!
-Can't wait for the second book to come out :D
Thank you Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
(Publication date: Sept 29 2017)
3.5 stars
Characters
I don't like Catherine that much because she's always insulting people. For example, Stephen, her ex. Although sometimes he can be quite stupid, he is actually kind. He tells Catherine about how Christopher is doing when he doesn't turn up at school and even provides shelter for Catherine and Christopher when they run away from home.
As for Christopher... *sigh* hello sexy. He's Italian, and always includes Italian words in his sentences, which I find so. Hot!
I scowled at him. "You're just playing with me, aren't you?"
"Sí."
"See what?"
"I said yes in Italian. So, what do you say? Will you go out with me?"
"No, which is no in Engleeesh."
Romance
No no no no no. Christopher and Catherine have known each other for such a short time and they're already saying "I love you" to each other? No. How did that happen? Where did the chemistry go? #notfeelingthefeels
Setting
New Zealand? YAS.
More thoughts
-I'm very curious, where did Christopher's lip ring go? He "pocketed" it and never put it back on.
-I like that this story is told in multiple POVS!
-Can't wait for the second book to come out :D
November 4, 2017
Stella maris by marita a hansen.
Catherine hovich is given a beautiful rosary known as a stella maris at her first confirmation lesson. Unaware of the dangers attached to it, she accepts the gift, soon discovering that each bead on the rosary holds a unique power, powers that only merges can use.
A very good read. I liked Catherine. Didn't expect that. Hope there is more to come. 4*. Recommended. Tbc on fb.
Catherine hovich is given a beautiful rosary known as a stella maris at her first confirmation lesson. Unaware of the dangers attached to it, she accepts the gift, soon discovering that each bead on the rosary holds a unique power, powers that only merges can use.
A very good read. I liked Catherine. Didn't expect that. Hope there is more to come. 4*. Recommended. Tbc on fb.
November 4, 2017
This is a great book and my introduction to angels and their rosaries, I found it interesting to learn how they let the owner concentrate their 'power'. Catherine is not too happy about going to confirmation classes as she has lost her faith when her twin sister was burnt to death. She does go though more to please her mother but there she sees a new boy who is very good looking and much to her surprise she finds herself drawn to him. When he turns up at her school she tries to ignore him but it seems they are pulled together much more than just the sexual tension that is a big part of their storyline. When Catherine is given a rosary and told to keep it next to her skin at all times by a nun that used to teach her she has no idea why but when the nun is later found dead in a fire she realises she needs to learn all she can and as soon as possible.
I enjoyed this book and learning more about the angels and demons, the chemistry between Catherine and Christopher is a little overpowering but nevertheless the love/hate relationship is a vital part of the plot. I will be looking out for the next book as I want intrigued to know more about these families. Thank you to TBConFacebook for recommending the book.
I enjoyed this book and learning more about the angels and demons, the chemistry between Catherine and Christopher is a little overpowering but nevertheless the love/hate relationship is a vital part of the plot. I will be looking out for the next book as I want intrigued to know more about these families. Thank you to TBConFacebook for recommending the book.
October 29, 2017
This was one of those books that didn't quite capture my imagination as much as I'd hoped. I found myself a little distracted in the beginning and found it hard to keep up with everything that was going on. I found that I didn't 'click' with the two main characters - they irritated me a bit, to be honest. However, I must say I was very impressed with the author's writing. I'd definitely like to try and read more of her books in future.
The ARC of Stella Maris provided by publisher via Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
The ARC of Stella Maris provided by publisher via Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
October 15, 2017
DNF review at 35%, review to come
Full review on Stellar Kitten Book Reviews:
I honestly really, really wanted to like this book. I didn’t like it very much once I saw how the main character, Catherine, reacted to anyone and everyone–I didn’t like her personality very much–but I tried to push through it. I liked the premise of the book and the cover is gorgeous, but it just didn’t cut it for me. I only made it through about a third of the book before I gave up. So, just to be clear: This is a DNF review at 35% through the book!
That being said, I can talk about the book a bit, but this won’t be a very long review (if you ignore all the quotes I’m about to drop). Let’s get into the characters first:
Catherine, as I said, was very explosive. She tended to overreact frequently and go right for an insult. I didn’t like it very much because it happened in her interactions with just about everyone she ran into. It ended up being just way too much from her. I’ll give some examples/quotes:
☆ “Don’t ever touch me again!”
☆ “I’m not your girl,” I snapped, “because if I were, I’d be your sister, you inbred freak.”
So, while I didn’t like Catherine’s personality very much, I at least found her tolerable. It was when I met Christopher that I started to have my doubts about finishing the book. But really, it was after I read a couple of chapters from his point of view that I just had to call it quits.
With Christopher, the problem was that he was written to be just overly-sexual. He only ever noticed girls for their bodies. I couldn’t understand his instant infatuation with Catherine, and it really ended up feeling kinda… creepy and stalker-ish. Here are some examples/quotes ( “//” are for paragraph breaks, just to save space):
☆ “Chris won’t give me my pencil back” // Christopher held it out again. “I’m trying to, but she won’t take it,” he said, looking like he was forcing back a smile. “And I’m more than willing to give it to you,” he whispered the last part, his tone suggesting something he wanted to give me something entirely different.
☆ She was wearing blue jeans and a Def Leppard T-Shirt, obviously having a thing for Metal, which I liked a lot. Not because of the bands, but because the shirts hugged her breasts perfecto.
☆ Her voice was gorgeous, the slight wobble reminding me of the way Belinda Carlisle sang. And she certainly was Heaven on Earth, just not sweet-looking like Belinda. She was much, much sexier, the girl an instant hard-on.
☆ “Sorry for scaring you,” I lied, her wide-eyed look making little Christopher stand to attention. Well, he wasn’t little. I unashamedly adjusted myself, causing her eyes to drop to my package. “It’s all for you, cara.”
☆ “What the hell is wrong with you?” she spat. // “You are.” I smirked. “You gave me hard-on-itis.” // She grimaced at me. “Firstly, who says things like that? And secondly, I have no interest in your Italian salami”–she indicated to my groin–“so back off.”
☆ It sent a wave of arousal through me, so intense that I wanted to spin her around and shove her up against the lockers, kissing the hell out of her.
☆ While her long white hair gave her the aura of an angel, only her pouty lips negating her innocence. They looked like they were made for kissing, not to mention other, dirtier things.
☆ A hot girl with a chest that defied gravity, smiled at me. She was standing under a tree with another girl, blatantly eying me up, her smile a definite come-on.
As for the actual plot, I thought it was really interesting and that’s what kept me reading as far as I did. I genuinely wanted to know more about the different rosaries and the Merges that used them. I also wanted to know what would happen with Christopher’s grandfather. Unfortunately, the plot was also dragged down by constant info-dumps. Every time something about the Merges came up you could expect pages of information to be thrown at you all at once. It made the story feel inorganic with how all this information was volunteered (usually from someone whom Catherine didn’t trust very much).
I would say that if you didn’t mind the main characters’ personalities that this book could be enjoyable. Unfortunately, I just don’t think this wasn’t for me.
Stella Maris was released on September 29th, so feel free to check it out if you’re interested.
Full review on Stellar Kitten Book Reviews:
❝ Mum poked her head out of the kitchen doorway, giving me a frown. She looked similar to me, just with short black hair and sky blue eyes. Mine were a strange mix of brown, green, and gold. Mum likened them to mood stones, since they constantly shifted between colors. She said they went brown when I was angry, green when I was sad, and gold when I was happy, the latter not happening much after my twin was found murdered.❞
I honestly really, really wanted to like this book. I didn’t like it very much once I saw how the main character, Catherine, reacted to anyone and everyone–I didn’t like her personality very much–but I tried to push through it. I liked the premise of the book and the cover is gorgeous, but it just didn’t cut it for me. I only made it through about a third of the book before I gave up. So, just to be clear: This is a DNF review at 35% through the book!
That being said, I can talk about the book a bit, but this won’t be a very long review (if you ignore all the quotes I’m about to drop). Let’s get into the characters first:
Catherine, as I said, was very explosive. She tended to overreact frequently and go right for an insult. I didn’t like it very much because it happened in her interactions with just about everyone she ran into. It ended up being just way too much from her. I’ll give some examples/quotes:
☆ “Don’t ever touch me again!”
☆ “I’m not your girl,” I snapped, “because if I were, I’d be your sister, you inbred freak.”
So, while I didn’t like Catherine’s personality very much, I at least found her tolerable. It was when I met Christopher that I started to have my doubts about finishing the book. But really, it was after I read a couple of chapters from his point of view that I just had to call it quits.
❝ I didn’t have any friends in this class… actually, I didn’t have any friends other than Nicky. It was because people thought I was rude. I just found it hard to talk to people who would much rather I’d died instead of Vesna.❞
With Christopher, the problem was that he was written to be just overly-sexual. He only ever noticed girls for their bodies. I couldn’t understand his instant infatuation with Catherine, and it really ended up feeling kinda… creepy and stalker-ish. Here are some examples/quotes ( “//” are for paragraph breaks, just to save space):
☆ “Chris won’t give me my pencil back” // Christopher held it out again. “I’m trying to, but she won’t take it,” he said, looking like he was forcing back a smile. “And I’m more than willing to give it to you,” he whispered the last part, his tone suggesting something he wanted to give me something entirely different.
☆ She was wearing blue jeans and a Def Leppard T-Shirt, obviously having a thing for Metal, which I liked a lot. Not because of the bands, but because the shirts hugged her breasts perfecto.
☆ Her voice was gorgeous, the slight wobble reminding me of the way Belinda Carlisle sang. And she certainly was Heaven on Earth, just not sweet-looking like Belinda. She was much, much sexier, the girl an instant hard-on.
☆ “Sorry for scaring you,” I lied, her wide-eyed look making little Christopher stand to attention. Well, he wasn’t little. I unashamedly adjusted myself, causing her eyes to drop to my package. “It’s all for you, cara.”
☆ “What the hell is wrong with you?” she spat. // “You are.” I smirked. “You gave me hard-on-itis.” // She grimaced at me. “Firstly, who says things like that? And secondly, I have no interest in your Italian salami”–she indicated to my groin–“so back off.”
☆ It sent a wave of arousal through me, so intense that I wanted to spin her around and shove her up against the lockers, kissing the hell out of her.
☆ While her long white hair gave her the aura of an angel, only her pouty lips negating her innocence. They looked like they were made for kissing, not to mention other, dirtier things.
☆ A hot girl with a chest that defied gravity, smiled at me. She was standing under a tree with another girl, blatantly eying me up, her smile a definite come-on.
❝ That rosary,” she said, indicating to it, “is a weapon against evil. Each bead on the chain has individual powers. Combined with your energy, they create magic-like occurrences.”❞
As for the actual plot, I thought it was really interesting and that’s what kept me reading as far as I did. I genuinely wanted to know more about the different rosaries and the Merges that used them. I also wanted to know what would happen with Christopher’s grandfather. Unfortunately, the plot was also dragged down by constant info-dumps. Every time something about the Merges came up you could expect pages of information to be thrown at you all at once. It made the story feel inorganic with how all this information was volunteered (usually from someone whom Catherine didn’t trust very much).
I would say that if you didn’t mind the main characters’ personalities that this book could be enjoyable. Unfortunately, I just don’t think this wasn’t for me.
Stella Maris was released on September 29th, so feel free to check it out if you’re interested.
November 5, 2017
2,5 stars.
I was so psyched for this book, as it seemed like a promising new take on the mythology and half-creatures in christianity. The idea is interesting, complex and just on the right side of credibility, which I really liked. Kind of like a better Dan Brown with a YA-perspective.
But. I had a really hard time connecting with the main characters - for me they were rude, repetitive and small-minded in a way I think certain adults think young people are. So they read as a stereotype of what ”young people today” are like, which I feel is a little sad and uninformed, as that stereotype usually is based on ”bad adult behaviors”. Christophers inner monologue is cringeworthy at best, and puts him as a sullen boy who only thinks of breasts and sex. I hope and do think both boys and men in general think of more things. If the goal was for the reader to be embarrassed by him and give up hope on teenagers all together, then well done.
The writing style in general didn’t captivate me, it’s a little brusque and unpolished, and I had a hard time connecting with anyone at all, which led to that I just did not care what happened to them.
So, great idea for a story, but I would have loved for it to be better written with more confident language and more diverse characters.
I was so psyched for this book, as it seemed like a promising new take on the mythology and half-creatures in christianity. The idea is interesting, complex and just on the right side of credibility, which I really liked. Kind of like a better Dan Brown with a YA-perspective.
But. I had a really hard time connecting with the main characters - for me they were rude, repetitive and small-minded in a way I think certain adults think young people are. So they read as a stereotype of what ”young people today” are like, which I feel is a little sad and uninformed, as that stereotype usually is based on ”bad adult behaviors”. Christophers inner monologue is cringeworthy at best, and puts him as a sullen boy who only thinks of breasts and sex. I hope and do think both boys and men in general think of more things. If the goal was for the reader to be embarrassed by him and give up hope on teenagers all together, then well done.
The writing style in general didn’t captivate me, it’s a little brusque and unpolished, and I had a hard time connecting with anyone at all, which led to that I just did not care what happened to them.
So, great idea for a story, but I would have loved for it to be better written with more confident language and more diverse characters.
November 7, 2017
An interesting book - I enjoyed the description of the rosaries and different types of angels/demons. There was a little too much romance/sexy tension for me but I appreciate I am not the target audience. I didn't really get on with any of the characters; Catherine was rude/abrasive, Christopher too cocky and Nicky (Catherine's best friend) was unbelievably ditzy and irritating.
I can see the appeal to the YA market and being a good Catholic girl I liked the idea of the rosary being an actual mystical object and a gateway to harness powers.
I can see the appeal to the YA market and being a good Catholic girl I liked the idea of the rosary being an actual mystical object and a gateway to harness powers.
October 21, 2017
2.5 stars
The story idea was first class. It's creative, intriguing, believeable, complex and multi dimensional. On that basis this could be easily be a best seller. One of the best ideas I've read in quite some years. I did feel more on the world building would have made it better.
However the execution was for me lacking. The writing style is very staccato, which doesn't give the reader a chance to connect - I never visualised any of the settings or characters. So I didn't care. Some writers have you totally connected to a scene, so you tingle and even smell the scene. With such a great story premise this should have been the case.
The characterisation wasn't great. These were kids at school, yet Christopher's character acted like a 35 yo manwhore. Catherine herself responds to everyone like a much older lady. It's sassy but mostly unwarranted, so odd and despite her tragedy it just didn't ring true.
Some of the scenes were just wrong. As an example Catherine was hurt being flung back so she landed on her head. No other injury. The authorities were told a car hit her - hit and run. Really? Where was the impact on her body? The car skid marks on the road? let's not forget that her sister had been murdered and that was still unsolved. Yep, no one would be interested in that. She wouldn't have got out of hospital without the police being all over. I've no idea about Country Kiwi police but surely they aren't that useless?! As for her parents reaction. Yep believed that!
I received an ARC from the author via TBC in return for an honest review
The story idea was first class. It's creative, intriguing, believeable, complex and multi dimensional. On that basis this could be easily be a best seller. One of the best ideas I've read in quite some years. I did feel more on the world building would have made it better.
However the execution was for me lacking. The writing style is very staccato, which doesn't give the reader a chance to connect - I never visualised any of the settings or characters. So I didn't care. Some writers have you totally connected to a scene, so you tingle and even smell the scene. With such a great story premise this should have been the case.
The characterisation wasn't great. These were kids at school, yet Christopher's character acted like a 35 yo manwhore. Catherine herself responds to everyone like a much older lady. It's sassy but mostly unwarranted, so odd and despite her tragedy it just didn't ring true.
Some of the scenes were just wrong. As an example Catherine was hurt being flung back so she landed on her head. No other injury. The authorities were told a car hit her - hit and run. Really? Where was the impact on her body? The car skid marks on the road? let's not forget that her sister had been murdered and that was still unsolved. Yep, no one would be interested in that. She wouldn't have got out of hospital without the police being all over. I've no idea about Country Kiwi police but surely they aren't that useless?! As for her parents reaction. Yep believed that!
I received an ARC from the author via TBC in return for an honest review
November 2, 2017
Whilst overall an enjoyable book, I struggled at times to stay interested and felt that certain aspects of the story could have been left out without affecting the overall storyline. The authors take on Angels and Demons was new and interesting and leaves the door open for follow up books.
October 22, 2017
A Young Adult and Paranormal book all in one. One of my favourite genres. This was the first book by Marita A. Hansen that I have read. I really loved this book I was sad that it came to an end and are fervently looking forward to the next book in the series. I liked the setting which was also during the time that I was a teenager and loved the references to the music from that time. I loved the characters and Marita's description of them. I hope Stephen can become a better person in the next book he was a bit dumb. Some of the images described in the book I could clearly imagine and I wish I could see it in real life. I would recommend this book to all lovers of YA and Paranormal.
Thank you to TBConFb for the copy.
Thank you to TBConFb for the copy.
December 31, 2017
This book is clever and different, the writing is good and enjoyable . I felt its take on the angel and demon world to be original and brilliant, the story behind the rosaries very clever and engaging. I have no spiritual beliefs myself and I didn't feel this spoilt my enjoyment of the book at all, in fact it was refreshing to read something out of my comfort zone.
Right from the first chapter we meet Chris and Catherine, who are drawn towards each other very fast. I liked the character of Chris however I didn't warm to Catherine, I found her rude and annoying at times. Chris is a likeable character and I was glad to see the book change to his POV on regular basis.
This book is very long and I did find myself skipping some of the parts I felt were not needed. I skipped the part where Chris sets up Stephen with Nicky, Catherine friend, as it didn't seem to fit into the story at that time. I also feel while this is a brilliant read it could be made shorter and given an ended that packs a punch.
I would like to read a new story by this author because I feel her writing is unique and enjoyable. This book is great for young adults who enjoy the paranormal reads.
Right from the first chapter we meet Chris and Catherine, who are drawn towards each other very fast. I liked the character of Chris however I didn't warm to Catherine, I found her rude and annoying at times. Chris is a likeable character and I was glad to see the book change to his POV on regular basis.
This book is very long and I did find myself skipping some of the parts I felt were not needed. I skipped the part where Chris sets up Stephen with Nicky, Catherine friend, as it didn't seem to fit into the story at that time. I also feel while this is a brilliant read it could be made shorter and given an ended that packs a punch.
I would like to read a new story by this author because I feel her writing is unique and enjoyable. This book is great for young adults who enjoy the paranormal reads.
September 27, 2017
Review first published on Bookality.
A perfect coming of age, paranormal novel.
Now, wait. Hear me out. I’m not saying this is the perfect book. There are some things I object to, but I’m picking because this book is genre-perfect. When you're a teenager, looking to satisfy your book-cravings you aren’t looking for literary perfection. You’re looking for a means to escape and this is it.
The beginning of the book drops you in as Catherine returns to school, two years after the murder of her twin. There she meets book-crush, Chris Laboure, gifted with similar supernatural powers based around using the legendary rosaries.
Ok, so there are a couple of things making the book less than perfect. The beginning is repetitive. There are characters I couldn’t care less for; some of them are just annoying. Catherine is often mean without it coming across as sarcastic or funny. Why does her ex want to date her, even with a supernatural pull? I don’t know. The teenage characters talk in adverbs which is lazy. These should be dropped. Their actions show their age to us.
I’m also not sure about the use of such a faith-based superpower. It made me a little uncomfortable. Are only Catholics in this secret, supernatural world? I would have of preferred more good vs. bad, with a touch of faith. Will this put others off the book? Maybe.
That aside, the voice of this book is cute and teen-like. The plot is interesting. There is a perfect amount of ‘magic’. A third through I stopped noticing the bothersome bits losing myself in the story.
I would have loved it as a teenager. Read it. I can’t wait for the next instalment.
A perfect coming of age, paranormal novel.
Now, wait. Hear me out. I’m not saying this is the perfect book. There are some things I object to, but I’m picking because this book is genre-perfect. When you're a teenager, looking to satisfy your book-cravings you aren’t looking for literary perfection. You’re looking for a means to escape and this is it.
The beginning of the book drops you in as Catherine returns to school, two years after the murder of her twin. There she meets book-crush, Chris Laboure, gifted with similar supernatural powers based around using the legendary rosaries.
Ok, so there are a couple of things making the book less than perfect. The beginning is repetitive. There are characters I couldn’t care less for; some of them are just annoying. Catherine is often mean without it coming across as sarcastic or funny. Why does her ex want to date her, even with a supernatural pull? I don’t know. The teenage characters talk in adverbs which is lazy. These should be dropped. Their actions show their age to us.
I’m also not sure about the use of such a faith-based superpower. It made me a little uncomfortable. Are only Catholics in this secret, supernatural world? I would have of preferred more good vs. bad, with a touch of faith. Will this put others off the book? Maybe.
That aside, the voice of this book is cute and teen-like. The plot is interesting. There is a perfect amount of ‘magic’. A third through I stopped noticing the bothersome bits losing myself in the story.
I would have loved it as a teenager. Read it. I can’t wait for the next instalment.
October 26, 2017
A copy of this review can be found at Book Ink Reviews.
Thank you to NetGalley and Marita A. Hansen for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In a supernatural fantasy, Marita A. Hansen has produced a solid first book in a series.
It is designed for a young adult audience, and that must be emphasized. Though most modern fantasy novels are leaning towards new adult with more mature acting 19-year-olds in focus, Stella Maris stays firmly in the YA genre. There are a ton of lusty scenes and a ton of exhausting teenage outbursts. While annoying, at least it is incredibly authentic to how a teenage girl would react to learning she is an angel, in love with an angel, and gearing up to fight a demon.
Stella is incredibly long, with a need for trimming. Too often I found myself skimming passages because they held no new information or value.
It was an interesting glance into the lore of angels and demons, but I can't say that I'll be looking out for the next book in the series.
Provided at the end of the ebook and on GoodReads, the author's son composed a soundtrack for the book. While slightly amateurish in sound due to the synthetic nature of the playback, it lends the missing piece to your reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and Marita A. Hansen for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
In a supernatural fantasy, Marita A. Hansen has produced a solid first book in a series.
It is designed for a young adult audience, and that must be emphasized. Though most modern fantasy novels are leaning towards new adult with more mature acting 19-year-olds in focus, Stella Maris stays firmly in the YA genre. There are a ton of lusty scenes and a ton of exhausting teenage outbursts. While annoying, at least it is incredibly authentic to how a teenage girl would react to learning she is an angel, in love with an angel, and gearing up to fight a demon.
Stella is incredibly long, with a need for trimming. Too often I found myself skimming passages because they held no new information or value.
It was an interesting glance into the lore of angels and demons, but I can't say that I'll be looking out for the next book in the series.
Provided at the end of the ebook and on GoodReads, the author's son composed a soundtrack for the book. While slightly amateurish in sound due to the synthetic nature of the playback, it lends the missing piece to your reading.
February 3, 2018
I enjoyed the book but I think it could have been even better. Theplotline is good and the characters are great. This is the second time I am seeing this book though can’t remember when the first was. I would recommend this to others because you will want to know what happens. There are parts that could have been changed or omitted and it would have been just as good or better.
I received an eARC copy through NetGalley.
I received an eARC copy through NetGalley.
September 22, 2017
DNF'ed at 50%
Sadly, this one just wasn't for me. The concept is pretty cool, and I liked Catherine and found her voice fairly amusing to read, but about half of the way in there hasn't been enough plot to keep me engaged.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the author for providing a review copy of this book! All opinions represented remain my own.*
Sadly, this one just wasn't for me. The concept is pretty cool, and I liked Catherine and found her voice fairly amusing to read, but about half of the way in there hasn't been enough plot to keep me engaged.
*Thanks to NetGalley and the author for providing a review copy of this book! All opinions represented remain my own.*
Read
September 29, 2017I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Release date, 09/27/2017!
DNFing at 25%
Have you ever started reading a book that you felt on the fence about right from the get-go? You debate furiously with yourself whether to continue on, or, stop reading it altogether. This has been my experience with Stella Maris. After going back and forth with whether to continue or not, I've decided to call this a DNF.
While the premise itself is fascinating (and the main reason why I juggled with continuing on or not), the accompanying and expected details simply didn't flow with the main idea.
Stella Maris is about a girl named Catherine, who discovers that there are powerful beings walking the face of the earth--herself being on of them. When she is given a magical rosary, she begins to understand that there is more to the battle of "good vs. evil," and many of them attain their own magical rosaries.
Set in the 1980's in New Zealand, Catherine crosses paths with the intolerable Christopher, and Italian teen belonging to a family of Seraphs. While this remains a secret, Catherine unravels the secrets behind his "bad boy" exterior, when he accuses her of being a Maris.
Fire vs. water, angels vs. demons, good vs. evil.
For me personally, it's hard to read a book about angels, and not include the element of Biblical accuracy and respect along with it. Seeing how angels are celestial agents of God, reading angelically-depicted character's dialogue that uses the Lord's name in vain is ridiculous. Sure, this is a fantasy book, where artistic license is allowed. I get that and am for that--but don't bite the hand that feeds you! Don't disrespect that which you are trying to render!
Another issue I have is the blurred lines between the angelic and demonic. Christopher, a character I assumed to be demonic, turns out to be a seraph which is a type of fire angel. I don't even understand what purpose a fire angel would serve, seeing how they are so similar to...a demon?
Lastly, I really didn't like the over-sexualization of these "beings." Christopher is downright crude. From the moment he lays eyes on Christina, he is constantly trying to seduce her.
These three areas I discussed were what made me decide to DNF.
Vulgarity: Lots.
Sexual content: Too much for something discussing angels!
Violence: Minimal.
I will not be assigning a star review as I did not finish reading this book.
A big thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
Release date, 09/27/2017!
DNFing at 25%
He was both Heaven and Hell rolled into one sinful package, a paradox I couldn't even come close to unraveling.
Have you ever started reading a book that you felt on the fence about right from the get-go? You debate furiously with yourself whether to continue on, or, stop reading it altogether. This has been my experience with Stella Maris. After going back and forth with whether to continue or not, I've decided to call this a DNF.
While the premise itself is fascinating (and the main reason why I juggled with continuing on or not), the accompanying and expected details simply didn't flow with the main idea.
Stella Maris is about a girl named Catherine, who discovers that there are powerful beings walking the face of the earth--herself being on of them. When she is given a magical rosary, she begins to understand that there is more to the battle of "good vs. evil," and many of them attain their own magical rosaries.
Set in the 1980's in New Zealand, Catherine crosses paths with the intolerable Christopher, and Italian teen belonging to a family of Seraphs. While this remains a secret, Catherine unravels the secrets behind his "bad boy" exterior, when he accuses her of being a Maris.
Fire vs. water, angels vs. demons, good vs. evil.
For me personally, it's hard to read a book about angels, and not include the element of Biblical accuracy and respect along with it. Seeing how angels are celestial agents of God, reading angelically-depicted character's dialogue that uses the Lord's name in vain is ridiculous. Sure, this is a fantasy book, where artistic license is allowed. I get that and am for that--but don't bite the hand that feeds you! Don't disrespect that which you are trying to render!
Another issue I have is the blurred lines between the angelic and demonic. Christopher, a character I assumed to be demonic, turns out to be a seraph which is a type of fire angel. I don't even understand what purpose a fire angel would serve, seeing how they are so similar to...a demon?
Lastly, I really didn't like the over-sexualization of these "beings." Christopher is downright crude. From the moment he lays eyes on Christina, he is constantly trying to seduce her.
These three areas I discussed were what made me decide to DNF.
Vulgarity: Lots.
Sexual content: Too much for something discussing angels!
Violence: Minimal.
I will not be assigning a star review as I did not finish reading this book.
A big thanks to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
November 5, 2017
Review in Italian: https://lalibreriadij.wordpress.com/2...
Thanks to NetGalley I received an e-arc of this book.
It's not a bad book, it's just that there are many not well-defined parts that made it hard to read it. First point I did not understand is why there is the division of the days: whether it's been a month or a week from the beginning to the end of the story, is it relevant? The different POV of the two protagonists in each chapter was heavy, but only at the beginning when we did not fully understand the world in which the narration takes place: a few chapters later on it becomes quite pleasing.
As for the love story between Catherine and Christopher: I did not like it too much... beautiful as a couple but I certainly do not think of them as an OTP. Too fast and too pushy and springy for my taste. How Catherine then found herself in all of that mess and from one day to the other came to very high levels only the author knows, because of that I have read little and nothing in the book. Of Angelic mythology there is nothing but a little bit of explanation: I wanted to know more, and maybe I would have preferred a more built world, that would really involv me.
I do not know, guys, overall the book is flat: the plot is old but with an innovative spin, the characters are realistic in their behaviors and the good vs evil fight always has its because, but I missed that something more that fundamentally would have made it all the more engaging.
Ah, for once the Italian terms used are decent (not perfect because while reading a few sentences I got tgoosebumps, but there are worse books around).
Recommended? Meh. At your own risk and danger! ^^
Thanks to NetGalley I received an e-arc of this book.
It's not a bad book, it's just that there are many not well-defined parts that made it hard to read it. First point I did not understand is why there is the division of the days: whether it's been a month or a week from the beginning to the end of the story, is it relevant? The different POV of the two protagonists in each chapter was heavy, but only at the beginning when we did not fully understand the world in which the narration takes place: a few chapters later on it becomes quite pleasing.
As for the love story between Catherine and Christopher: I did not like it too much... beautiful as a couple but I certainly do not think of them as an OTP. Too fast and too pushy and springy for my taste. How Catherine then found herself in all of that mess and from one day to the other came to very high levels only the author knows, because of that I have read little and nothing in the book. Of Angelic mythology there is nothing but a little bit of explanation: I wanted to know more, and maybe I would have preferred a more built world, that would really involv me.
I do not know, guys, overall the book is flat: the plot is old but with an innovative spin, the characters are realistic in their behaviors and the good vs evil fight always has its because, but I missed that something more that fundamentally would have made it all the more engaging.
Ah, for once the Italian terms used are decent (not perfect because while reading a few sentences I got tgoosebumps, but there are worse books around).
Recommended? Meh. At your own risk and danger! ^^
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews