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Everealm #1
Everealm
Librarian Note: Alternate Cover Edition for ASIN: B00OGRW8L2.
Breestlin cannot escape her destiny to become ruler of her father's kingdom, but she never planned to become queen at twenty-three years of age. Upon the return of her first love, Rowan, Bree must quickly learn how to adapt to both her new responsibilities as a ruler and her inability to suppress her feelings for Rowan. To make matters more difficult, her outcast uncle, Silas, will stop at nothing to get what he desires, putting lives and the kingdom in danger. Bree must seek the assistance of the wizard, Dagan, who in a twist of fate discovers much more about his family (and himself) than he could ever imagine in this steamy love story, full of mystery and romance...
Danger awaits, as we journey through Everealm, the first book of the Everealm Series.
Adult content. Intended for mature audiences.
Breestlin cannot escape her destiny to become ruler of her father's kingdom, but she never planned to become queen at twenty-three years of age. Upon the return of her first love, Rowan, Bree must quickly learn how to adapt to both her new responsibilities as a ruler and her inability to suppress her feelings for Rowan. To make matters more difficult, her outcast uncle, Silas, will stop at nothing to get what he desires, putting lives and the kingdom in danger. Bree must seek the assistance of the wizard, Dagan, who in a twist of fate discovers much more about his family (and himself) than he could ever imagine in this steamy love story, full of mystery and romance...
Danger awaits, as we journey through Everealm, the first book of the Everealm Series.
Adult content. Intended for mature audiences.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2014
7 people are currently reading
1141 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Wright
13 books166 followersJ.D. Wright is a military wife, mother of four, and author of romance, paranormal, and fantasy romance books filled with strong-willed heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and sprinkled with humor and adventure. J.D. creates artistry in many ways, as a baker and cake artist by day and author by night. You can usually find her typing away at the computer or covered in frosting.
Since discovering she has a knack for writing, J.D. has so far written and self-published eight books of the Everealm and Songs of Everealm Series and is now venturing into the world of contemporary romance. She is also writing paranormal YA with her new superhero-themed series. She is an avid reader and lover of all things romance so she always includes a good love story in her paranormal and fantasy novels.
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Since discovering she has a knack for writing, J.D. has so far written and self-published eight books of the Everealm and Songs of Everealm Series and is now venturing into the world of contemporary romance. She is also writing paranormal YA with her new superhero-themed series. She is an avid reader and lover of all things romance so she always includes a good love story in her paranormal and fantasy novels.
Join her Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cjoBGD
Social Media:
Website – http://www.authorjdwright.com/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/authorjdwright/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/everealmbyjdw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjdwright/
Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/everealmbyjdw/
Google+ – https://plus.google.com/u/0/+JDWrightAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
March 17, 2016
Excellent, excellent book. This was such a great book a superb story, characters are very relatable. This is the type of book once you start, you don't stop till it's done. I am starting book two now :)
January 25, 2016
I decided to pick this up due to the cover and the synopsis, which sounded pretty good. But it wasn't as good as I expected it to be. I couldn't connect with the characters, the writing style was just ok and nothing gripped me to continue the story, just my personal desire, and the plot... a bit weak and simple for my taste. But maybe just because it's the first one. We'll see.
I don't know if I would recommend this and to whom... and I don't understand either how it has so many 4 and 5 stars. Maybe I'm blind.
I don't know if I would recommend this and to whom... and I don't understand either how it has so many 4 and 5 stars. Maybe I'm blind.
January 26, 2016
**Note from the author - How Everealm came to be...**
P.S. For anyone considering reading the Everealm Series, please note (as the description states) that there is adult content. Feel free to ask me if you want more details. But you have been warned... *smiles innocently*
I noticed that a few of my fellow authors have utilized their review space to share a note with their readers/potential readers, so I thought I would do the same and tell you a little about how this book series came to be!
In 2014, my ten year high school reunion occurred. Oops! Did that just give away my age? Oh, well. And as I sat back and took a look at my busy life, I realized just how much I had changed and grown as a person since graduation. From my brief time in the military to becoming the owner of a bakery and being married with three (at the time) children, I felt like a completely different person.
Just before the reunion, I was chatting with my high school BFF and digging around in my closet for my yearbooks. I found them, but also found a black binder that I honestly had forgotten all about. The binder contains notes and drafts from a fantasy novel I had started in high school and never finished. I had spent weeks researching names and ideas but I think I made it through three chapters before losing interest and moving on to something else.
When I flipped through the binder, I had an insane idea. What if I just finish it? CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!
Well, I didn't really feel inspired by my original plot idea. I won't tell you what it was going to be about because I may decide to write a series using that idea later on. Instead, I brainstormed for a week or so. Ultimately, I decided to stick with fantasy in order to take advantage of my terrifyingly overactive imagination.
In two short months, Everealm was born! No, really. I wrote the whole dang thing in less than two months. I may have been overly ambitious, but I've actually kept this same writing pace since, so I won't complain. I used a vast majority of my original names. For example: Breestlin, Junacave, Taten, Labara, Vale, Sire, Sarita, Dagan, Sidonie, Adelphie, Cicilly, and many more were handwritten inside the binder. I still pull names from the binder on occasion.
When I started writing, I had no idea what I was doing!! I still don't, but I'm figuring it out as I go... English Comp is a class I avoided like the plague during my 4 1/2 years of college. I never took it because I hate to be told what to write about. But I was determined to put the story in my head onto the computer screen, somehow. I found a blank red composition notebook and started scribbling an outline. Then I opened a Word document, named it Everealm - Book One, and started typing.
In Everealm, I tried to paint a picture of the scene as I saw it in my head. I may have been a bit too detailed in my descriptions, but I meant well. :) Many nights were spent writing instead of sleeping and my husband had to pick up a lot of my slack around the house and with my baking. But I barreled through and finally finished the manuscript. I sent the chapters to my mother and mother-in-law (my proofreaders) and made corrections. I subscribed to Grammarly and made more corrections. Then I had a brief moment of insanity and published the book to Amazon. It all happened so quickly that it feels a bit like a dream now.
Everealm was released on Halloween in 2014 because that is my favorite day of the year. I love Halloween more than my birthday. Much more. Immediately after the book was released, I finished the outline for Wildfire (Book #2). THEN... I found out we were expecting our fourth child! I got terrible morning sickness and had to take a break from writing. Our son was born in June of 2015. The last week of July, I started writing Wildfire, which was released on September 1st.
As I look back now on Everealm, my inexperience as a writer is fairly obvious, but I am not a bit ashamed. We all have to start somewhere. I didn't expect anyone to care about the book so I didn't bother finding and paying an editor (which I couldn't afford at the time, anyway) to look over a book that was really just written on a whim. It wasn't even a hobby. And I can open the manuscript any day of the week and find things I would change about the first book. Some of it is phrasing or dialogue that is more rigid than I would prefer, etc. But at the time, I didn't know any better. I love seeing how much I have already learned and grown as a writer, from the first book to where I am now (almost finished with Aurora (Book Four), prepping the last book of the Everealm series (#5), and already preparing for my next series!). I may go back and try to polish the book a bit in the future but I won't be making major changes for a few reasons. (Feel free to ask, if you're curious as to why.)
This journey has been absolutely amazing thus far! I have done a few virtual blog tours and met so many amazing people (mostly awesome bloggers!). I have learned how to design book covers and the ins and outs of self-publishing. I have discovered a new community of other writers who share the struggle and enthusiasm. And I have found a love for storytelling, which is something I didn't realize I was looking for. I never wanted to be a writer, but now I am having a hard time imagining myself as anything else. For anyone who has been on this journey with me since the beginning--bless you! For those who are joining me and just discovering Everealm--welcome!
I look forward to traveling the realm with you! :)
~J.D.
P.S. For anyone considering reading the Everealm Series, please note (as the description states) that there is adult content. Feel free to ask me if you want more details. But you have been warned... *smiles innocently*
I noticed that a few of my fellow authors have utilized their review space to share a note with their readers/potential readers, so I thought I would do the same and tell you a little about how this book series came to be!
In 2014, my ten year high school reunion occurred. Oops! Did that just give away my age? Oh, well. And as I sat back and took a look at my busy life, I realized just how much I had changed and grown as a person since graduation. From my brief time in the military to becoming the owner of a bakery and being married with three (at the time) children, I felt like a completely different person.
Just before the reunion, I was chatting with my high school BFF and digging around in my closet for my yearbooks. I found them, but also found a black binder that I honestly had forgotten all about. The binder contains notes and drafts from a fantasy novel I had started in high school and never finished. I had spent weeks researching names and ideas but I think I made it through three chapters before losing interest and moving on to something else.
When I flipped through the binder, I had an insane idea. What if I just finish it? CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!
Well, I didn't really feel inspired by my original plot idea. I won't tell you what it was going to be about because I may decide to write a series using that idea later on. Instead, I brainstormed for a week or so. Ultimately, I decided to stick with fantasy in order to take advantage of my terrifyingly overactive imagination.
In two short months, Everealm was born! No, really. I wrote the whole dang thing in less than two months. I may have been overly ambitious, but I've actually kept this same writing pace since, so I won't complain. I used a vast majority of my original names. For example: Breestlin, Junacave, Taten, Labara, Vale, Sire, Sarita, Dagan, Sidonie, Adelphie, Cicilly, and many more were handwritten inside the binder. I still pull names from the binder on occasion.
When I started writing, I had no idea what I was doing!! I still don't, but I'm figuring it out as I go... English Comp is a class I avoided like the plague during my 4 1/2 years of college. I never took it because I hate to be told what to write about. But I was determined to put the story in my head onto the computer screen, somehow. I found a blank red composition notebook and started scribbling an outline. Then I opened a Word document, named it Everealm - Book One, and started typing.
In Everealm, I tried to paint a picture of the scene as I saw it in my head. I may have been a bit too detailed in my descriptions, but I meant well. :) Many nights were spent writing instead of sleeping and my husband had to pick up a lot of my slack around the house and with my baking. But I barreled through and finally finished the manuscript. I sent the chapters to my mother and mother-in-law (my proofreaders) and made corrections. I subscribed to Grammarly and made more corrections. Then I had a brief moment of insanity and published the book to Amazon. It all happened so quickly that it feels a bit like a dream now.
Everealm was released on Halloween in 2014 because that is my favorite day of the year. I love Halloween more than my birthday. Much more. Immediately after the book was released, I finished the outline for Wildfire (Book #2). THEN... I found out we were expecting our fourth child! I got terrible morning sickness and had to take a break from writing. Our son was born in June of 2015. The last week of July, I started writing Wildfire, which was released on September 1st.
As I look back now on Everealm, my inexperience as a writer is fairly obvious, but I am not a bit ashamed. We all have to start somewhere. I didn't expect anyone to care about the book so I didn't bother finding and paying an editor (which I couldn't afford at the time, anyway) to look over a book that was really just written on a whim. It wasn't even a hobby. And I can open the manuscript any day of the week and find things I would change about the first book. Some of it is phrasing or dialogue that is more rigid than I would prefer, etc. But at the time, I didn't know any better. I love seeing how much I have already learned and grown as a writer, from the first book to where I am now (almost finished with Aurora (Book Four), prepping the last book of the Everealm series (#5), and already preparing for my next series!). I may go back and try to polish the book a bit in the future but I won't be making major changes for a few reasons. (Feel free to ask, if you're curious as to why.)
This journey has been absolutely amazing thus far! I have done a few virtual blog tours and met so many amazing people (mostly awesome bloggers!). I have learned how to design book covers and the ins and outs of self-publishing. I have discovered a new community of other writers who share the struggle and enthusiasm. And I have found a love for storytelling, which is something I didn't realize I was looking for. I never wanted to be a writer, but now I am having a hard time imagining myself as anything else. For anyone who has been on this journey with me since the beginning--bless you! For those who are joining me and just discovering Everealm--welcome!
I look forward to traveling the realm with you! :)
~J.D.
February 4, 2016
The beginning of the book was good, but it plateaued out in parts and got a little boring. I think there could have been a better storyline. The chemistry between Bree and Rowan was believable, but it needed a touch of something more, All in all a pleasurable read.
September 15, 2015
I received this book in an exchange for an honest review
First of all the name of the book, Everealm don't you think that sounds like something majestic? I do :)
I really did like Bree, Rowan and Sid. They were definietly interesting characters. What I like most about this book is, how it deals with the concept of empowerment. Like today in society, empowerment is only seen as male dominance and women as weakling. Similarly, in this book both Bree and Sid are shown dealing with this in subtle ways.
My most beloved character would have to be Dagan, I think he is becoming the new love of my life! *sighs*. He was such a pleasure to read, so darn funny in the least places you expect him to be. Oh and the romance between him and Sid, oh gosh they are too steamy someone pass me a fan to calm myself down before I faint. Lol
The plot of this was very common in the grounds of the next heir becoming King or Queen, facing challenges from a family member, betrayals are made, lines are crossed and secrets are revealed.
I hated Silas and Vacilla, I hope they rot in hell, die and cease to exist. They literally made life miserable for everyone!
First of all the name of the book, Everealm don't you think that sounds like something majestic? I do :)
I really did like Bree, Rowan and Sid. They were definietly interesting characters. What I like most about this book is, how it deals with the concept of empowerment. Like today in society, empowerment is only seen as male dominance and women as weakling. Similarly, in this book both Bree and Sid are shown dealing with this in subtle ways.
My most beloved character would have to be Dagan, I think he is becoming the new love of my life! *sighs*. He was such a pleasure to read, so darn funny in the least places you expect him to be. Oh and the romance between him and Sid, oh gosh they are too steamy someone pass me a fan to calm myself down before I faint. Lol
The plot of this was very common in the grounds of the next heir becoming King or Queen, facing challenges from a family member, betrayals are made, lines are crossed and secrets are revealed.
I hated Silas and Vacilla, I hope they rot in hell, die and cease to exist. They literally made life miserable for everyone!
May 12, 2016
DNF (41%)
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
This had been on my TBR list for a while, so I was very excited when I saw it on NetGalley and had the chance to request it.
One of the things I really liked about this was that it included a map, I don't know why, but I love it when books include maps. The history about the war and the wizards battling each other was pretty cool too, I did like that.
Sadly, I didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would. The description made it sound so good and it really caught my attention, but I didn't get that feeling while reading this.
To me it felt like I was reading a middle grade book, but the content was for an older audience. It just reminded me of fantasy books written for children, the vocabulary was also very modern and people's behavior was not accurate for that time, especially when it came to the way people interacted with Bree, she's the queen and I never saw people treat her like that. All of this is very common in middle grade books, but, since this was young adult, it felt a little odd.
And I think I just never cared about the characters, not a single one of them. So I didn't really have an interest in knowing what would happen to them next :/
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
This had been on my TBR list for a while, so I was very excited when I saw it on NetGalley and had the chance to request it.
One of the things I really liked about this was that it included a map, I don't know why, but I love it when books include maps. The history about the war and the wizards battling each other was pretty cool too, I did like that.
Sadly, I didn't enjoy this as much as I thought I would. The description made it sound so good and it really caught my attention, but I didn't get that feeling while reading this.
To me it felt like I was reading a middle grade book, but the content was for an older audience. It just reminded me of fantasy books written for children, the vocabulary was also very modern and people's behavior was not accurate for that time, especially when it came to the way people interacted with Bree, she's the queen and I never saw people treat her like that. All of this is very common in middle grade books, but, since this was young adult, it felt a little odd.
And I think I just never cared about the characters, not a single one of them. So I didn't really have an interest in knowing what would happen to them next :/
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
January 9, 2016
This story revolved around a generation of young adults destined to take over the responsibility of running a thriving kingdom, following the death of the king.
I found each and every one of the main characters fascinating and each one played a pivotal role in the story rather than one or two main personalities and a selection of supporting characters. I mentioned in my previous post that I was getting a bit bored with vague and indistinct personalities, but this was an absolute pleasure to read because it felt like meeting new people.
Bree, the new queen of Junacave, is a passionate, idealisitic and stubborn woman who will do anything to keep her kingdom safe, even at the cost of her own safety.
Her is-he-isn't-he lover, Rowan, is an even more passionate and stubborn character who will do anything to keep her safe. The two of them can always be relied upon to release some sexual frustration by yelling at each other.
Dagan, is the new wizard of the kingdom, he will be closely working with the queen and her council to maintain the safety of the king(queen?)dom but he isn't the traditional wizard you would expect in this kind of story. He is a great combination of selfish, kind, studious, sexual, sensitive and powerful. The author has made a wonderful job of humanising the character that normally comes across as distant in this kind of story.
Sidone is a warrior from a tribe of strong women, she knows how to handle herself in a fight and I know she has a huge destiny to fulfil later in the series, she might be a powerful woman but she wants to fit in with her new friends. She feels understandably insecure when she arrives into their world, after growing up in the forest with her sister so again, the author has perfectly humanised a character who could so easily be untouchable and unrelatable.
Finnley is my favourite character of all, though he plays one of the smaller roles. He's underestimated by everyone even though they adore him, he usually ends up with the worst tasks and doesn't grumble too much about it; trust me, some of those tasks really are awful.
Right then: Sex. Everyone in this book was shagging. Everyone. It's medievalish times, Netflix hasn't been invented yet so everyone is just having sex all the time.
Bearing in mind the Shakespearian proportions of the story and the fact that most of the characters are in their early twenties, it seems pretty likely that that's all they'd be doing!
This book didn't shy away from some of the uglier sides of sex either, the evil uncle shows tendencies of sexual sadism and an old man who enjoys the company of young boys (it's the youth bit I'm creeped out by, not the boys bit).
It also dealt with a male character being effectively date raped by a woman, though it didn't go into the after effects in too great detail, it did include his feeling victim's guilt. I really appreciated this unflinching approach to sex as a weapon, it had to happen for the story to really make sense and the author didn't shy away from it.
The fuzzy feels of this book comes from the younger generation all coming together at the beginning of this book and getting to know each other, so you can imagine how they will grow old together and bring peace to the kingdom. I'm definitely glad that I have the second book of this series loaded on my Kindle already, I was definitely not ready to let these characters go yet.
I found each and every one of the main characters fascinating and each one played a pivotal role in the story rather than one or two main personalities and a selection of supporting characters. I mentioned in my previous post that I was getting a bit bored with vague and indistinct personalities, but this was an absolute pleasure to read because it felt like meeting new people.
Bree, the new queen of Junacave, is a passionate, idealisitic and stubborn woman who will do anything to keep her kingdom safe, even at the cost of her own safety.
Her is-he-isn't-he lover, Rowan, is an even more passionate and stubborn character who will do anything to keep her safe. The two of them can always be relied upon to release some sexual frustration by yelling at each other.
Dagan, is the new wizard of the kingdom, he will be closely working with the queen and her council to maintain the safety of the king(queen?)dom but he isn't the traditional wizard you would expect in this kind of story. He is a great combination of selfish, kind, studious, sexual, sensitive and powerful. The author has made a wonderful job of humanising the character that normally comes across as distant in this kind of story.
Sidone is a warrior from a tribe of strong women, she knows how to handle herself in a fight and I know she has a huge destiny to fulfil later in the series, she might be a powerful woman but she wants to fit in with her new friends. She feels understandably insecure when she arrives into their world, after growing up in the forest with her sister so again, the author has perfectly humanised a character who could so easily be untouchable and unrelatable.
Finnley is my favourite character of all, though he plays one of the smaller roles. He's underestimated by everyone even though they adore him, he usually ends up with the worst tasks and doesn't grumble too much about it; trust me, some of those tasks really are awful.
Right then: Sex. Everyone in this book was shagging. Everyone. It's medievalish times, Netflix hasn't been invented yet so everyone is just having sex all the time.
Bearing in mind the Shakespearian proportions of the story and the fact that most of the characters are in their early twenties, it seems pretty likely that that's all they'd be doing!
This book didn't shy away from some of the uglier sides of sex either, the evil uncle shows tendencies of sexual sadism and an old man who enjoys the company of young boys (it's the youth bit I'm creeped out by, not the boys bit).
It also dealt with a male character being effectively date raped by a woman, though it didn't go into the after effects in too great detail, it did include his feeling victim's guilt. I really appreciated this unflinching approach to sex as a weapon, it had to happen for the story to really make sense and the author didn't shy away from it.
The fuzzy feels of this book comes from the younger generation all coming together at the beginning of this book and getting to know each other, so you can imagine how they will grow old together and bring peace to the kingdom. I'm definitely glad that I have the second book of this series loaded on my Kindle already, I was definitely not ready to let these characters go yet.
January 28, 2016
This was a different and unique beginning to what I think will be a wonderful series. The book focuses on relationships and the building of the world. We get the history of the characters and what is going on in the now. What is also given is a beginning of the danger that lies ahead. There is so many interesting stories happening and yet they are intertwine. I felt the most for Rowan in this story. I know you would think Rowan and Bree for they both went through the same ordeal kind of but not so much Bree because she had support at all times whereas Rowan was put out into the world and trained to kill. He became isolated from others and left to grow up and mature on his own. He had to leave his family and loved ones at a time when he was just beginning to come into his own. Not only that but when he comes back he is thrust into a new world for him. No longer alone and trying to survive but now he has to deal with messy. Messy emotions, messy thoughts and situations just messy. And he has to see the woman he has loved since a child be in danger and navigate through that. Also he is dealt with many revelations that take his breath away and knock him down. Rowan shows strength, character and maturity but also he still has the hot temper and mischievousness that makes him irresistible. He is kind, fierce, loyal and dangerous. He loves with all he has and he loves Bree.
Bree is the princess to be queen. She is stubborn and rash at times. She is kind and loving as well. She sacrifices for her people and her ultimate sacrifice was Rowan. Seeing him again puts her in a whirlwind. She has a duty but also has a pull towards her best friend. She has secrets though and she has danger ahead of her with becoming queen. Her uncle wants to rule everything and he is really a evil guy. The mage’s are about to be thrust into uncertainty as well and this will affect her. Her cousin wants revenge and tries to hurt Bree through going after hurting her heart. Her mom is having dreams that haunt her and she is feeling that she has no compass. Rowan is there when he can be and as the book goes on we see these two deal with so much and find a way to come together again. It isn’t a easy road and it is full of fights and some hurt but it does occur and these two together are amazing.
Dagan is the mage to take over for his grandfather. He has regrets and confusion. He falls for a Sabra and it has him reeling. This book is him navigating his new position and his feelings. A good fun character and a great side kick for Rowan.
The world building and history given is wonderful. It allows us to be able to get the whole picture of what is going on although we aren’t given all of it because that is revealed as needed I believe so there is a good balance of description, history, danger and romance. We get to see the world and the lives of the characters unfold before us in wonderful technicolor detail. We see what they are feeling and what is happening around them and to them. Put in the moment and see how it will unfold as we cheer on the sidelines.
A great beginning to what I feel will be a amazing series that will be filled with intrigue, danger, revenge and love. The first book sets up the stage by telling us the background and what is going on and giving us some danger and adventure to boot with romance as well
Bree is the princess to be queen. She is stubborn and rash at times. She is kind and loving as well. She sacrifices for her people and her ultimate sacrifice was Rowan. Seeing him again puts her in a whirlwind. She has a duty but also has a pull towards her best friend. She has secrets though and she has danger ahead of her with becoming queen. Her uncle wants to rule everything and he is really a evil guy. The mage’s are about to be thrust into uncertainty as well and this will affect her. Her cousin wants revenge and tries to hurt Bree through going after hurting her heart. Her mom is having dreams that haunt her and she is feeling that she has no compass. Rowan is there when he can be and as the book goes on we see these two deal with so much and find a way to come together again. It isn’t a easy road and it is full of fights and some hurt but it does occur and these two together are amazing.
Dagan is the mage to take over for his grandfather. He has regrets and confusion. He falls for a Sabra and it has him reeling. This book is him navigating his new position and his feelings. A good fun character and a great side kick for Rowan.
The world building and history given is wonderful. It allows us to be able to get the whole picture of what is going on although we aren’t given all of it because that is revealed as needed I believe so there is a good balance of description, history, danger and romance. We get to see the world and the lives of the characters unfold before us in wonderful technicolor detail. We see what they are feeling and what is happening around them and to them. Put in the moment and see how it will unfold as we cheer on the sidelines.
A great beginning to what I feel will be a amazing series that will be filled with intrigue, danger, revenge and love. The first book sets up the stage by telling us the background and what is going on and giving us some danger and adventure to boot with romance as well
January 18, 2016
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley for an honest review.
First of all, this book is really more of a romance than anything else. I like romantic fantasy books a lot, so I was eager to dive in. It's standard fantasy fare, with wizards and royalty and that sort of thing. The world building is a bit flat; while there was some interesting history at the beginning of a book (though it's related in a huge infodump), we didn't get a sense of anything that happened more than 100 years in the past, and how the different countries relate to each other, how the cultures might be different (except a bit about the Sabra), and the nitty gritty details of the infrastructure of the world. While I personally love that sort of stuff, the book isn't about the world, it's about the characters, so I could get past that very easily.
The characters weren't very engaging to me, and while Rowan and Bree had an intense past, I didn't get a sense that any of the other characters had any chemistry or history together. Things happened, characters reacted because that's what they were supposed to do, and it was all very cut and dry. Even though there was drama and tempers and love and lovemaking, I didn't care too much about what the characters were really doing. I think the fault lies in the writing style. It was more tell, as opposed to show.
As for the plot, again, standard fantasy fare. Young woman becomes queen, her evil uncle who does evil things wants her country for herself, there are secrets about character's lineages, people have magic who shouldn't have magic, that sort of thing. Cliches and tropes are there for a reason, but I wish the story line had put a little more zest into these tropes. There were a few turns of phrase that badly needed an editor.
It wasn't a very bad book, but it wasn't entirely engaging, either. At the end of the day, I feel the author has some fun ideas, but they didn't get conveyed as well as they could have. I will say that the preview chapters for the next books interest me, and I'd love to get the next book a chance. To be honest, it really felt like a first novel by an inexperienced writer (whether or not that is the case, I have no idea), and I definitely think there's potential for some really good storytelling.
First of all, this book is really more of a romance than anything else. I like romantic fantasy books a lot, so I was eager to dive in. It's standard fantasy fare, with wizards and royalty and that sort of thing. The world building is a bit flat; while there was some interesting history at the beginning of a book (though it's related in a huge infodump), we didn't get a sense of anything that happened more than 100 years in the past, and how the different countries relate to each other, how the cultures might be different (except a bit about the Sabra), and the nitty gritty details of the infrastructure of the world. While I personally love that sort of stuff, the book isn't about the world, it's about the characters, so I could get past that very easily.
The characters weren't very engaging to me, and while Rowan and Bree had an intense past, I didn't get a sense that any of the other characters had any chemistry or history together. Things happened, characters reacted because that's what they were supposed to do, and it was all very cut and dry. Even though there was drama and tempers and love and lovemaking, I didn't care too much about what the characters were really doing. I think the fault lies in the writing style. It was more tell, as opposed to show.
As for the plot, again, standard fantasy fare. Young woman becomes queen, her evil uncle who does evil things wants her country for herself, there are secrets about character's lineages, people have magic who shouldn't have magic, that sort of thing. Cliches and tropes are there for a reason, but I wish the story line had put a little more zest into these tropes. There were a few turns of phrase that badly needed an editor.
It wasn't a very bad book, but it wasn't entirely engaging, either. At the end of the day, I feel the author has some fun ideas, but they didn't get conveyed as well as they could have. I will say that the preview chapters for the next books interest me, and I'd love to get the next book a chance. To be honest, it really felt like a first novel by an inexperienced writer (whether or not that is the case, I have no idea), and I definitely think there's potential for some really good storytelling.
December 23, 2015
Where to begin? This book has everything! Wizards, kingdoms, fantastic villains, and love. There was everything to love about this book. The only thing to hate were the villains… a great sign that they were well written.
Bree is set to be the Queen and to protect her kingdom, she needs the help of Dagan the wizard, Rowan the assassin/knight in training, and Sidonie the Sabra (the equivalent to the Amazons). Together they must save the kingdom from Bree’s estranged uncle, Silas, that has his own kingdom to run/ruin… but the threat isn’t exactly what they thought it was.
I know the focus should be Bree and Rowan, even Dagan and Sidonie… but Silas and his wife, Vacilla, were great villains. They made life for everyone pure hell… even each other. They have been such miserable people for so long, they don’t how to be any other way.
My favorite character may just be Dagan. He’s charming, sensitive, and funny. I really enjoyed the chapters he was in. The chemistry between Dagan and Sidonie was magical. There were times when my heart just ached for them. There is a bit of a plot twist at the end that was foreshadowed a bit earlier in the story. I can’t wait to see where this story goes!
Bree is set to be the Queen and to protect her kingdom, she needs the help of Dagan the wizard, Rowan the assassin/knight in training, and Sidonie the Sabra (the equivalent to the Amazons). Together they must save the kingdom from Bree’s estranged uncle, Silas, that has his own kingdom to run/ruin… but the threat isn’t exactly what they thought it was.
I know the focus should be Bree and Rowan, even Dagan and Sidonie… but Silas and his wife, Vacilla, were great villains. They made life for everyone pure hell… even each other. They have been such miserable people for so long, they don’t how to be any other way.
My favorite character may just be Dagan. He’s charming, sensitive, and funny. I really enjoyed the chapters he was in. The chemistry between Dagan and Sidonie was magical. There were times when my heart just ached for them. There is a bit of a plot twist at the end that was foreshadowed a bit earlier in the story. I can’t wait to see where this story goes!
September 17, 2015
I received a free copy of this book when I signed up to host the review tour via YA Bound Book Tours. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own.
Before I begin let me say that I found the cover of this book to be pleasing to the eye.
Now, if you love reading books about royalty and their drama filled lives then you will definitely want to read this and if you also enjoy romance, then know that you have hit the jackpot. The story line kept me glued to every turn of the page and the author's world building creativity made me feel like I was there experiencing it all. Instead of telling you who my favorite characters are I will tell you which characters I hated with every fiber of my being; Vacilla and Silas as they truly made life a living hell for the people around them.
I found the characters to be well written and I loved reading this book. This book contains just the right amount of romance, drama and adventure. I will definitely be reading the second book. Kudos to J.D. Wright for a fantastically written fantasy.
Before I begin let me say that I found the cover of this book to be pleasing to the eye.
Now, if you love reading books about royalty and their drama filled lives then you will definitely want to read this and if you also enjoy romance, then know that you have hit the jackpot. The story line kept me glued to every turn of the page and the author's world building creativity made me feel like I was there experiencing it all. Instead of telling you who my favorite characters are I will tell you which characters I hated with every fiber of my being; Vacilla and Silas as they truly made life a living hell for the people around them.
I found the characters to be well written and I loved reading this book. This book contains just the right amount of romance, drama and adventure. I will definitely be reading the second book. Kudos to J.D. Wright for a fantastically written fantasy.
January 25, 2016
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley
This was 3.5 stars for me but I definitely think it could be a great read for some.
The story as a whole is really well crafted and the characters are great - there is a little bit of everything in this book.
This was 3.5 stars for me but I definitely think it could be a great read for some.
The story as a whole is really well crafted and the characters are great - there is a little bit of everything in this book.
Read
May 5, 2016Unfortunately, this wasn't a book for me. It has a beautiful cover, an attractive blurb, a great premise, and a writing style I just couldn't get along with. I found it to be mostly telling, and I didn't feel immersed in the world or invested in the characters.
March 24, 2024
It has been a whopping 8 years and I still can't fathom to continue this book any further. I believe I reached only 19%, but I could never vibe with the writing style. I have gotten more used to books written in present tense over the years. Even if this book had been written in past tense, it had so many infodumps and lack of direction (not to mention a protagonist that felt insanely jarring), I would have dnfed it anyways.
It seems like other reviewers have felt in a similar way as me. I suggest readers to test the waters and if they can't vibe with it in the first 5%, then to stop reading further. Sadly, this wasn't the book for me.
It seems like other reviewers have felt in a similar way as me. I suggest readers to test the waters and if they can't vibe with it in the first 5%, then to stop reading further. Sadly, this wasn't the book for me.
November 5, 2015
I've tried to start this review so many times, only to think of something I liked even more and start all over again, so I'll keep it simple. I freaking loved this book! It all kicks off in the land of Everealm, where 23 year old Bree has just been crowned Queen after her father's death. Desperately in love with her childhood friend Rowan who is the son of a knight and so not a suitable husband, she struggles to reconcile her head and her heart as she inherits a throne now under threat from her uncle Silas.
First off, the world building is spectacular! I felt like I was walking through castle courts, wearing one of those ludicrously impractical velvet dresses. Throw in a little magic and I'm there! I don't normal like books to be too overly descriptive so that I'm a little more free to let my imagination run wild, but it seems like J.D.Wright has got more than enough imagination for the both of us and it didn't hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact everything was so vividly described and told it made for an easy and far more enjoyable read (I think I like making things difficult for myself!). The subtle female empowerment angle is nicely done too. This is a world where females are undoubtedly seen as weaker. Case in point, when Silas comes to steal the throne from his niece, but the female characters (even Silas' hideous wife, the Lady Macbeth-esque Vicilla) hold their own. The partnerships are just that in this book, not the big strong man coming to rescue the damsel in distress, nor the insultingly 2D "strong" female characters that you never believe for a minute.
Then there are the characters. I adore Bree! She's not a perfect character, but she's a very real one. And her relationship with Rowan is beautifully written as two people who make that sometimes painfully awkward transition from friends to lovers. Their first scene together is geuninely adorable. Rowan was a little bit blank slate for me at time, a bit of a cookie-cutter good guy doing his duty at the expense of his happiness. But the scenes between him and Bree are what bring him to life as a character. I'm only a little disappointed there weren't more of them. But I can't complain, because this paved the way for scenes between my ship; Bree's magic-possessing friend Sidonie and the powerful wizard Dagan that Bree is enlisted to help save the throne. I don't use this phrase as often as I'd like to, but be still my beating heart! This pair were my utter faves. More of your fiery lovers who lock eyes and that's it. The book blurb warns about mature content, but I much prefer books to go there rather than fade to black which happens in my usual YA fare. If that's your preference, then this series might not be your cup of tea. Steamy without being excessive, the sex and romance scenes are so organic to the story that they never once feel like they've been crowbarred in for a cheap thrill or so that the book can be marketed a certain way.
Another plus point; an awesome bad guy. Antagonist Silas - and his put upon but equally vile wife Vicilla - means that Everealm has this covered in spades! Urgh! Honestly, I rarely feel a physical reaction to a book character but this guy made my skin crawl! This was the only thing that made me wish I hadn't read book first, so I kind of knew where they were going to end up.
In case I hadn't made it clear enough, I fell head over heels in love with this book! It has just the right blend of fantasy and believable characters, magic and peril with a bit more bite than your average romance and it's all set in a kingdom I want to live in!
First off, the world building is spectacular! I felt like I was walking through castle courts, wearing one of those ludicrously impractical velvet dresses. Throw in a little magic and I'm there! I don't normal like books to be too overly descriptive so that I'm a little more free to let my imagination run wild, but it seems like J.D.Wright has got more than enough imagination for the both of us and it didn't hinder my enjoyment at all. In fact everything was so vividly described and told it made for an easy and far more enjoyable read (I think I like making things difficult for myself!). The subtle female empowerment angle is nicely done too. This is a world where females are undoubtedly seen as weaker. Case in point, when Silas comes to steal the throne from his niece, but the female characters (even Silas' hideous wife, the Lady Macbeth-esque Vicilla) hold their own. The partnerships are just that in this book, not the big strong man coming to rescue the damsel in distress, nor the insultingly 2D "strong" female characters that you never believe for a minute.
Then there are the characters. I adore Bree! She's not a perfect character, but she's a very real one. And her relationship with Rowan is beautifully written as two people who make that sometimes painfully awkward transition from friends to lovers. Their first scene together is geuninely adorable. Rowan was a little bit blank slate for me at time, a bit of a cookie-cutter good guy doing his duty at the expense of his happiness. But the scenes between him and Bree are what bring him to life as a character. I'm only a little disappointed there weren't more of them. But I can't complain, because this paved the way for scenes between my ship; Bree's magic-possessing friend Sidonie and the powerful wizard Dagan that Bree is enlisted to help save the throne. I don't use this phrase as often as I'd like to, but be still my beating heart! This pair were my utter faves. More of your fiery lovers who lock eyes and that's it. The book blurb warns about mature content, but I much prefer books to go there rather than fade to black which happens in my usual YA fare. If that's your preference, then this series might not be your cup of tea. Steamy without being excessive, the sex and romance scenes are so organic to the story that they never once feel like they've been crowbarred in for a cheap thrill or so that the book can be marketed a certain way.
Another plus point; an awesome bad guy. Antagonist Silas - and his put upon but equally vile wife Vicilla - means that Everealm has this covered in spades! Urgh! Honestly, I rarely feel a physical reaction to a book character but this guy made my skin crawl! This was the only thing that made me wish I hadn't read book first, so I kind of knew where they were going to end up.
In case I hadn't made it clear enough, I fell head over heels in love with this book! It has just the right blend of fantasy and believable characters, magic and peril with a bit more bite than your average romance and it's all set in a kingdom I want to live in!
August 11, 2015
I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The plot is targeted towards a more adult-ish audience, and it brings the fantasy aspect to a completely new level. It is a total win-win. It leaves you on the edge of your seat!
My Honest Opinions/Thoughts: I am in love, which is all I can say. The first paragraph won me over. I may have found a new favorite ship, or two, or three, or four. ♥ I was able to read this book thoroughly, though I had a few interruptions, but I was able to pick right back up where I had left off. It is rare that a book does that to me, in terms of books that I have not read before. I overlooked some parts, but I was able to keep going without feeling dismayed. I am definitely going to move on to the next book, and I look forward to the third book as well. This book has me on fangirling overload. I am actually going to be reading it again; I love it so, so much.
Haddie's Haven - http://haddieshaven.blogspot.com/2015...
The plot is targeted towards a more adult-ish audience, and it brings the fantasy aspect to a completely new level. It is a total win-win. It leaves you on the edge of your seat!
My Honest Opinions/Thoughts: I am in love, which is all I can say. The first paragraph won me over. I may have found a new favorite ship, or two, or three, or four. ♥ I was able to read this book thoroughly, though I had a few interruptions, but I was able to pick right back up where I had left off. It is rare that a book does that to me, in terms of books that I have not read before. I overlooked some parts, but I was able to keep going without feeling dismayed. I am definitely going to move on to the next book, and I look forward to the third book as well. This book has me on fangirling overload. I am actually going to be reading it again; I love it so, so much.
Haddie's Haven - http://haddieshaven.blogspot.com/2015...
January 14, 2016
I would like to hereby state that I have received a copy of this book from Net Galley in return of an honest review. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own. Thank you.
Everealm. The title of the book sounds so magical and mystical to me that I was very determined to read it as soon as it was done downloaded into my Kindle app on my Asus smart phone. I did and then requested for Wildfire (Book Two of the Everealm Series). Both I had finished in a days time which really surprised me as I usually procrastinate my reading routine.
Everealm is truly a page turner. I read pages after pages, hook on to the edge of my seat wanting to know what will happen next to Bree, Sid, Dagan, and Rowan. What their adventures will bring them? What misfortunes will befall unto them? The author kept me guessing throughout the whole book and surprised me with clever twist of plot that makes the story evermore interesting. The pacing is quick but not too fast, making it a very light and quick read which I like very much. The length of the Book One is good (less than 300 pages) which in the form of a paperback book I would love to bring this book with me as I travel in my bag as it is neither too thick and bulky nor thin and flimsy. I also like the style how the story is narrated. The words used are strong, bold and direct, making it easy to comprehend as English is not my native language. Thus, misinterpretation might occurred and the actual story is misunderstood, which is a very bad thing to happen.
The story is set in a fantasy world where magic, wizards, sorcerers are real, princesses wear fanciful gowns and slippers, knights in their shiny armors and women have equal social status as the men do. The empowerment of women in the story shows that women are capable of doing whatever the men are doing and the kindness of the women is not a weakness but the strength that lots of men lack. This enlighten me as the author had created a utopia that celebrates the equality of both men and women and is not seen in the male dominance world of ours. The story thus can encourage readers to stand up for themselves (both men and women) and do what they are passionate about and not be stopped by any sexual bias personal in any aspect of they lives.
Finally, of course I love a little danger and sex in my YA reading. The danger gives me adrenaline rush while the sex arouses me (duh, what else sex can gives?) It is hard to find a book in the genre of romance has a spark of thriller in it that is sufficient to give me the rush. A lot seems promising but ended as a disappointment. But not Everealm. Everealm has given me what I asked for and am satisfied with it. Some might argued that YA books do not need to contain the element of sex but in my point of view a little bit of steamy sex can makes a whole lot of difference. In Everealm, the sex scenes are modest and adequate which is very refreshing to me and does not provoke me in any wrong way.
Everealm. The title of the book sounds so magical and mystical to me that I was very determined to read it as soon as it was done downloaded into my Kindle app on my Asus smart phone. I did and then requested for Wildfire (Book Two of the Everealm Series). Both I had finished in a days time which really surprised me as I usually procrastinate my reading routine.
Everealm is truly a page turner. I read pages after pages, hook on to the edge of my seat wanting to know what will happen next to Bree, Sid, Dagan, and Rowan. What their adventures will bring them? What misfortunes will befall unto them? The author kept me guessing throughout the whole book and surprised me with clever twist of plot that makes the story evermore interesting. The pacing is quick but not too fast, making it a very light and quick read which I like very much. The length of the Book One is good (less than 300 pages) which in the form of a paperback book I would love to bring this book with me as I travel in my bag as it is neither too thick and bulky nor thin and flimsy. I also like the style how the story is narrated. The words used are strong, bold and direct, making it easy to comprehend as English is not my native language. Thus, misinterpretation might occurred and the actual story is misunderstood, which is a very bad thing to happen.
The story is set in a fantasy world where magic, wizards, sorcerers are real, princesses wear fanciful gowns and slippers, knights in their shiny armors and women have equal social status as the men do. The empowerment of women in the story shows that women are capable of doing whatever the men are doing and the kindness of the women is not a weakness but the strength that lots of men lack. This enlighten me as the author had created a utopia that celebrates the equality of both men and women and is not seen in the male dominance world of ours. The story thus can encourage readers to stand up for themselves (both men and women) and do what they are passionate about and not be stopped by any sexual bias personal in any aspect of they lives.
Finally, of course I love a little danger and sex in my YA reading. The danger gives me adrenaline rush while the sex arouses me (duh, what else sex can gives?) It is hard to find a book in the genre of romance has a spark of thriller in it that is sufficient to give me the rush. A lot seems promising but ended as a disappointment. But not Everealm. Everealm has given me what I asked for and am satisfied with it. Some might argued that YA books do not need to contain the element of sex but in my point of view a little bit of steamy sex can makes a whole lot of difference. In Everealm, the sex scenes are modest and adequate which is very refreshing to me and does not provoke me in any wrong way.
December 16, 2015
**I received an ebook version for review from NetGalley**
The book starts off with a very fast pace, which is something I don't mind. I was a little confused with the dynamic of the relationship between Rowan (the son of the First Knight of the King) and Bree (Princess of Junacave) at first. One minute she's flipping out on him, and the next she's smiling and trying to kiss him. Right off the bat the prologue made me uncomfortable. It was a little uncomfortable to read about an intense make out scene between a 14 and 16 year old. Just a little bit more detail about them getting “intimate” and I probably would have stopped reading. However, I will say that although I was hesitant at first because of the prologue, this book turned out to be really awesome.
Rowan was sent away to the military to train to become an assassin for Junacave once the King and Queen found out about what happened between Bree and Rowan when they were teenagers. Ever since, Bree has turned down suitor after suitor, with her heart remaining with Rowan. Seven years later, at the young age of 23, Bree becomes Queen of Junacave. The now-deceased King Frederick’s awful half brother, Silas (King of Sire) believes he is to be the rightful king of Junacave, and begins to plot ways to infiltrate the kingdom.
I do have a question that was left unanswered:
I really like this story. It's during my favorite time period, it's quirky at times, and it has just the right amount of “dirty” parts. Sometimes the dialogue was a little awkward, and at times I felt as though I really wanted more detail during some of the important scenes. This did not stop me from eating this book up, though. I laid on the couch for two straight hours and read, which isn’t something that I’ve done in awhile. Overall, I can look past all of the very minor things that bothered me, because really, this story was awesome. I truly did not know what to expect from this book, but I can honestly say that I was pleasantly surprised! After I finish some of the other books I have to read, I do plan on requesting the second in the series.
The book starts off with a very fast pace, which is something I don't mind. I was a little confused with the dynamic of the relationship between Rowan (the son of the First Knight of the King) and Bree (Princess of Junacave) at first. One minute she's flipping out on him, and the next she's smiling and trying to kiss him. Right off the bat the prologue made me uncomfortable. It was a little uncomfortable to read about an intense make out scene between a 14 and 16 year old. Just a little bit more detail about them getting “intimate” and I probably would have stopped reading. However, I will say that although I was hesitant at first because of the prologue, this book turned out to be really awesome.
Rowan was sent away to the military to train to become an assassin for Junacave once the King and Queen found out about what happened between Bree and Rowan when they were teenagers. Ever since, Bree has turned down suitor after suitor, with her heart remaining with Rowan. Seven years later, at the young age of 23, Bree becomes Queen of Junacave. The now-deceased King Frederick’s awful half brother, Silas (King of Sire) believes he is to be the rightful king of Junacave, and begins to plot ways to infiltrate the kingdom.
I do have a question that was left unanswered:
I really like this story. It's during my favorite time period, it's quirky at times, and it has just the right amount of “dirty” parts. Sometimes the dialogue was a little awkward, and at times I felt as though I really wanted more detail during some of the important scenes. This did not stop me from eating this book up, though. I laid on the couch for two straight hours and read, which isn’t something that I’ve done in awhile. Overall, I can look past all of the very minor things that bothered me, because really, this story was awesome. I truly did not know what to expect from this book, but I can honestly say that I was pleasantly surprised! After I finish some of the other books I have to read, I do plan on requesting the second in the series.
May 13, 2016
My Synopsis / Review ~
Everealm is a very charming book. I love romantic conflict. The main story follows Breestlin (Bree) the new queen of Junacave, a prosperous and peaceful kingdom in Everealm. Her father, the preceding king has just passed away, she is just crowned Queen, then all of the sudden she sees her long lost summer love, Rowan, the boy who gave her, her first kiss, also the one who took her innocence. And then he disappears. For 7 years. And now he shows up again - at her coronation of all places!
What she doesn’t know, is that Rowan still misses her. But he was just a lowly knights son, and she was the queen. When her parents found out about their trysts, they sent him away. They trained him to be an assassin, hardened him to be a cold stone mercenary.
All was going smoothly in Junacave for about two minutes, then, out of the blue, a severed head basically shows up one her doorstep and an uncle she barely knows, threatens to conquer the kingdom. And now her kingdoms last form of protection, a graying old Wizard, is on his deathbed and they must rush to convince his long lost grandson to help in their defense. An entertaining journey ensues, with Rowan now partnered at Bree’s side, and long awkward silences followed by incessant compulsive insults. It only gets better as the story continues, but you'll just have to read the book.
Note ~ This book does contain mature context and language. Recommended for ages 16+.
**I RECEIVED A FREE COPY VIA NET GALLEY FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.**
If You've Read the Book ~
My Favorite part is honestly the prologue. It's tugs on the sinews of my heart and I catch 'the feels'. I love it. It just really sets the tone of the book and there is nothing better than a great beginning. Can anybody else relate?
I also love the scene with Dagan and Sidonie in the woods!
~ Teenly Things Book Blogger Brygitt
Everealm is a very charming book. I love romantic conflict. The main story follows Breestlin (Bree) the new queen of Junacave, a prosperous and peaceful kingdom in Everealm. Her father, the preceding king has just passed away, she is just crowned Queen, then all of the sudden she sees her long lost summer love, Rowan, the boy who gave her, her first kiss, also the one who took her innocence. And then he disappears. For 7 years. And now he shows up again - at her coronation of all places!
What she doesn’t know, is that Rowan still misses her. But he was just a lowly knights son, and she was the queen. When her parents found out about their trysts, they sent him away. They trained him to be an assassin, hardened him to be a cold stone mercenary.
All was going smoothly in Junacave for about two minutes, then, out of the blue, a severed head basically shows up one her doorstep and an uncle she barely knows, threatens to conquer the kingdom. And now her kingdoms last form of protection, a graying old Wizard, is on his deathbed and they must rush to convince his long lost grandson to help in their defense. An entertaining journey ensues, with Rowan now partnered at Bree’s side, and long awkward silences followed by incessant compulsive insults. It only gets better as the story continues, but you'll just have to read the book.
Note ~ This book does contain mature context and language. Recommended for ages 16+.
**I RECEIVED A FREE COPY VIA NET GALLEY FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.**
If You've Read the Book ~
My Favorite part is honestly the prologue. It's tugs on the sinews of my heart and I catch 'the feels'. I love it. It just really sets the tone of the book and there is nothing better than a great beginning. Can anybody else relate?
I also love the scene with Dagan and Sidonie in the woods!
~ Teenly Things Book Blogger Brygitt
September 22, 2015
Bree has been in love with Rowan since she was a child. However because she was heir to her kingdom, Rowan was an unsuitable groom for the princess. Her parents separated them apart. On the day of her coronation, Bree sees Rowan for the first time. As she tries to suppress her love for Rowan, she finds out that her kingdom is in danger. Her uncle, Silas, eyes her throne. She realizes that having a wizard to aid her will prevent the problem. Can Bree save her kingdom and find a way to for her and Rowan to be together?
Bree’s heart has always been loyal to Rowan. She has turned down every suitor who has asked for her hand. However, she knows that as queen, she has a duty to be responsible. This whole book is about how Bree handles her first few days as queen. Yet, I felt that she was a strong ruler because not only was she practical, but she had strong people by her side. She has a powerful wizard, Dagan, Rowan, a powerful fighter as her personal guard, Sidonie, her friend who has magic, and her mother. It is the people around her that help her to succeed as a queen.
verall, this story is about friendship, family, and love. Everealm is full of magic, action, court intrigue, and danger. I did find some parts of this story to be slow. I also felt that the world-building needs to be more developed. Also, I felt the ending to be rushed, for I was surprised that it ended so soon. I felt that the ending should have been resolved a bit better. Still, this was an easy and quick read. It has likable characters and an interesting plot.. I feel that this story was a good introduction into the series, and I look forward to reading the next one. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in a light-hearted fantasy with a sweet love story.
(Note: This book was given to me by YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.)
Bree’s heart has always been loyal to Rowan. She has turned down every suitor who has asked for her hand. However, she knows that as queen, she has a duty to be responsible. This whole book is about how Bree handles her first few days as queen. Yet, I felt that she was a strong ruler because not only was she practical, but she had strong people by her side. She has a powerful wizard, Dagan, Rowan, a powerful fighter as her personal guard, Sidonie, her friend who has magic, and her mother. It is the people around her that help her to succeed as a queen.
verall, this story is about friendship, family, and love. Everealm is full of magic, action, court intrigue, and danger. I did find some parts of this story to be slow. I also felt that the world-building needs to be more developed. Also, I felt the ending to be rushed, for I was surprised that it ended so soon. I felt that the ending should have been resolved a bit better. Still, this was an easy and quick read. It has likable characters and an interesting plot.. I feel that this story was a good introduction into the series, and I look forward to reading the next one. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in a light-hearted fantasy with a sweet love story.
(Note: This book was given to me by YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.)
December 25, 2015
I received this book as an ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
Bree is a princess in Everealm. She has been in love with Rowan since she was fourteen years old. Unfortunately, he is not considered suitable and the fact that they went a little too far at one point means that he has been sent away to work as an assassin. When her father dies, Bree becomes Queen and there is the somewhat predictable story where Bree, Rowan, Dagan the wizard and others have to fight to save the kingdom from Bree's wicked uncle Silas and his wife.
The cover is lovely; that and the style of writing led me to believe that this was a YA fairy tale story. The book needs an editor (in my opinion). There is head-hopping between characters and a lot of poor phrasing that takes the reader out of the story. For example, "he certainly preferred her in red or deep green to match her eyes" made me wonder about the color of her eyes. Another example, "her body had rubbed against his groin, making it hard to concentrate on where he was leading his horse. And he was forced to rearrange his trousers to cover up his excitement caused by it". Was he excited by leading his horse or her body? There are a lot of sentences like this that just were not clear and stops the reader in order to try to understand what the author is saying. I can forgive a few instances of this, but there were too many throughout the entire book. I think an editor would have corrected this and made the book much better.
And this brings me to my second issue. This is definitely not a YA book. There are explicit sexual scenes of rape and violence. I don't particularly care if there is sex in a book, but here they are inserted somewhat gratuitously and I found them jarring. I don't think they were necessary and again they take the reader out of the story.
This book was a disappointment and I would not recommend it.
Bree is a princess in Everealm. She has been in love with Rowan since she was fourteen years old. Unfortunately, he is not considered suitable and the fact that they went a little too far at one point means that he has been sent away to work as an assassin. When her father dies, Bree becomes Queen and there is the somewhat predictable story where Bree, Rowan, Dagan the wizard and others have to fight to save the kingdom from Bree's wicked uncle Silas and his wife.
The cover is lovely; that and the style of writing led me to believe that this was a YA fairy tale story. The book needs an editor (in my opinion). There is head-hopping between characters and a lot of poor phrasing that takes the reader out of the story. For example, "he certainly preferred her in red or deep green to match her eyes" made me wonder about the color of her eyes. Another example, "her body had rubbed against his groin, making it hard to concentrate on where he was leading his horse. And he was forced to rearrange his trousers to cover up his excitement caused by it". Was he excited by leading his horse or her body? There are a lot of sentences like this that just were not clear and stops the reader in order to try to understand what the author is saying. I can forgive a few instances of this, but there were too many throughout the entire book. I think an editor would have corrected this and made the book much better.
And this brings me to my second issue. This is definitely not a YA book. There are explicit sexual scenes of rape and violence. I don't particularly care if there is sex in a book, but here they are inserted somewhat gratuitously and I found them jarring. I don't think they were necessary and again they take the reader out of the story.
This book was a disappointment and I would not recommend it.
February 19, 2016
Plot:
After the death of his father, the King of Junacave, Breestlin is crowned the new queen. Trying hard to be the good monarch for the kingdom, just like her father, Breestlin has her hands full. But with the return of her past love Rowan, the search for a new wizard for her kingdom’s protection and his father’s half-brother trying to take the kingdom away from her, Breestlin seems to need more than a pair of hands.
Summary
A captivating story with the perfect touch of humor.
Honestly speaking, I was captivated by its title. It reminds me of a certain book I love (Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta.) As the story goes, I grew enjoying it. Bree and Rowan‘s story is interesting. However, I find the side stories distracting. Don’t get me wrong, I love Sid, Dagan, and Finn. But I just feel like their stories should be written separately as they are taking the spotlight away from Bree and Rowan. I like Bree and Rowan’s story, but with everything else going on (even the Queen Mother’s love life!) side stories became a bit distracting and it feels like Bree and Rowan’s story was not fully developed. Regardless of this, I still find the whole book enjoyable, especially Bree and Finn’s banter. I am team Browan of course, but I just find the camaraderie of these two very entertaining.
It’s a new world the author have successfully portrayed. And with the characters in it, it became real for the readers in the period of time that we are reading it. I know there’s so much more that is going to happen in the Junacave (how do you even pronounce this???) and I am sensing a big secret is about to be revealed… oh my, there will be more trouble in paradise I guess. I am excited to read the next books. :D
After the death of his father, the King of Junacave, Breestlin is crowned the new queen. Trying hard to be the good monarch for the kingdom, just like her father, Breestlin has her hands full. But with the return of her past love Rowan, the search for a new wizard for her kingdom’s protection and his father’s half-brother trying to take the kingdom away from her, Breestlin seems to need more than a pair of hands.
Summary
A captivating story with the perfect touch of humor.
Honestly speaking, I was captivated by its title. It reminds me of a certain book I love (Finnikin of the Rock by Melina Marchetta.) As the story goes, I grew enjoying it. Bree and Rowan‘s story is interesting. However, I find the side stories distracting. Don’t get me wrong, I love Sid, Dagan, and Finn. But I just feel like their stories should be written separately as they are taking the spotlight away from Bree and Rowan. I like Bree and Rowan’s story, but with everything else going on (even the Queen Mother’s love life!) side stories became a bit distracting and it feels like Bree and Rowan’s story was not fully developed. Regardless of this, I still find the whole book enjoyable, especially Bree and Finn’s banter. I am team Browan of course, but I just find the camaraderie of these two very entertaining.
It’s a new world the author have successfully portrayed. And with the characters in it, it became real for the readers in the period of time that we are reading it. I know there’s so much more that is going to happen in the Junacave (how do you even pronounce this???) and I am sensing a big secret is about to be revealed… oh my, there will be more trouble in paradise I guess. I am excited to read the next books. :D
November 14, 2014
Bree always knew she would rule, she just didn't know it would be so soon. As a 23 year old newly crowned queen, she isn't sure she's ready for the responsibility. And although the kingdom has been at peace for years, that peace will not last when her uncle decides her throne should be his.
Everealm is a charming book that anyone would love to read!! Full of danger, romance, magic, mystery, and so much more, no matter your age you will enjoy this book!
J.D.W. brings Everealm to life in an entertaining and truly enjoyable way. Her descriptions and explanations are spot-on and help you see everything perfectly in your head while you read. They are also done in a way that doesn't overwhelm or distract from the story.
The story flows naturally, and it draws you in on page one. And even though this is a fairy tale, it feels real. The romance is written in a believable way (as opposed to other books that sometimes make the romance silly or over-the-top) and you are a part of the back and forth between Bree and Rowan. It makes sense and doesn't feel forced. There are also twists and turns that keep you guessing every step of the way.
The characters are beautifully developed. They are fully fleshed out and layered in a very human and relatable way. There is always more than meets the eye when it comes to the characters, and you are invested in them from the beginning.
Nothing about this book is trite or cheesy. It doesn't make you feel like you've read this before. There is so much more that J.D.W. has to offer us in the world of Everealm, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
Everealm is a charming book that anyone would love to read!! Full of danger, romance, magic, mystery, and so much more, no matter your age you will enjoy this book!
J.D.W. brings Everealm to life in an entertaining and truly enjoyable way. Her descriptions and explanations are spot-on and help you see everything perfectly in your head while you read. They are also done in a way that doesn't overwhelm or distract from the story.
The story flows naturally, and it draws you in on page one. And even though this is a fairy tale, it feels real. The romance is written in a believable way (as opposed to other books that sometimes make the romance silly or over-the-top) and you are a part of the back and forth between Bree and Rowan. It makes sense and doesn't feel forced. There are also twists and turns that keep you guessing every step of the way.
The characters are beautifully developed. They are fully fleshed out and layered in a very human and relatable way. There is always more than meets the eye when it comes to the characters, and you are invested in them from the beginning.
Nothing about this book is trite or cheesy. It doesn't make you feel like you've read this before. There is so much more that J.D.W. has to offer us in the world of Everealm, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
May 27, 2016
I so was not ready for this book! I’m hooked. Sleep? What’s that? Work? Now?
OK, so the book begins when Bree is a young girl and begins to realize the friendship she has had with Rowan has turned into something more. She is the daughter of Frederick II, the king of Junacave. He is the son of the First Knight, not nobility, this love she feels can never be.
We fast-forward to seven years later, Bree is 23. Her father, before death, turns Junacave over to her in a coronation that brings more than just the kingdom. It brings Rowan back to her, the issues the kingdom has- such as looking for a new mage to replace the ailing Elric; and stop her uncle, Silas, from taking over her kingdom. She must convince a very reluctant Dagon, Elric’s grandson, to stay and defend Junacave.
Everealm is part danger and adventure, part love story. Bree’s uncle Silas and his wife, Vacilla, are truly horrible rulers and will stop at nothing to have their ways, fortunately they are fighting with each other, if they were working together they may have been unstoppable. This animosity for each other is juxtaposed with the love Bree’s parents shared, the blossoming love others around Bree are experiencing.
There are a lot of mature themes in the book. Definitely not a book for children, but a wonderful escape for adult readers! I can’t wait to continue the series with the next three books!
I was given the opportunity to read Everealm by JD Wright, by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
OK, so the book begins when Bree is a young girl and begins to realize the friendship she has had with Rowan has turned into something more. She is the daughter of Frederick II, the king of Junacave. He is the son of the First Knight, not nobility, this love she feels can never be.
We fast-forward to seven years later, Bree is 23. Her father, before death, turns Junacave over to her in a coronation that brings more than just the kingdom. It brings Rowan back to her, the issues the kingdom has- such as looking for a new mage to replace the ailing Elric; and stop her uncle, Silas, from taking over her kingdom. She must convince a very reluctant Dagon, Elric’s grandson, to stay and defend Junacave.
Everealm is part danger and adventure, part love story. Bree’s uncle Silas and his wife, Vacilla, are truly horrible rulers and will stop at nothing to have their ways, fortunately they are fighting with each other, if they were working together they may have been unstoppable. This animosity for each other is juxtaposed with the love Bree’s parents shared, the blossoming love others around Bree are experiencing.
There are a lot of mature themes in the book. Definitely not a book for children, but a wonderful escape for adult readers! I can’t wait to continue the series with the next three books!
I was given the opportunity to read Everealm by JD Wright, by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
December 8, 2015
*I received an ecopy of this book from netgalley*
I had seen this book around and when I saw the blurb I really wanted to read it since it sounded right up my alley, so I was super excited when I found it on netgalley and I read it as soon as I could. This book was everything I wanted and a little bit more!
I really liked how it got right to the point and just kept moving I had a hard time putting it down, the multiple points of view were a big reason for that because I loved reading all the different struggles that came together, I even liked getting silas' side even if he was a giant asshat, he was the worst but it was interesting to get inside his head sick and twisted as it was.
I really enjoyed the romances, it was wonderful to watch them grow and progress in their own way, befitting of the individuals. The cast of characters were great, Rowan and Dagan were my favorite, bith witty and strong and if tge descriptions are correct thet are very handsome too lol. Bree was also great and I plan to enjoy watching her grow as a women and a leader. There are lots of other great character's too but you will just have to read this book to find out, and believe me you should read this, it is so worth it.
I'm very glad there was not a huge cliffhanger, but there was also enough leftover stuff to make me very excited to continue the series, I still have a few questions but also I just want to hang out in this wonderful world with these great characters.
I had seen this book around and when I saw the blurb I really wanted to read it since it sounded right up my alley, so I was super excited when I found it on netgalley and I read it as soon as I could. This book was everything I wanted and a little bit more!
I really liked how it got right to the point and just kept moving I had a hard time putting it down, the multiple points of view were a big reason for that because I loved reading all the different struggles that came together, I even liked getting silas' side even if he was a giant asshat, he was the worst but it was interesting to get inside his head sick and twisted as it was.
I really enjoyed the romances, it was wonderful to watch them grow and progress in their own way, befitting of the individuals. The cast of characters were great, Rowan and Dagan were my favorite, bith witty and strong and if tge descriptions are correct thet are very handsome too lol. Bree was also great and I plan to enjoy watching her grow as a women and a leader. There are lots of other great character's too but you will just have to read this book to find out, and believe me you should read this, it is so worth it.
I'm very glad there was not a huge cliffhanger, but there was also enough leftover stuff to make me very excited to continue the series, I still have a few questions but also I just want to hang out in this wonderful world with these great characters.
January 6, 2016
3.8/4.0ish
Over all I did enjoy this book. I was looking for something a little more adult since I've been reading a lot of young adult lately. I wasn't disappointed ;)
I guess my main problem was that I didn't really enjoy Bree as much as the other characters. I didn't really dislike her but, seeing as she's the main character, I expect a lot more out of her. The other characters seem to over shadow her. I guess I was looking for more of a badass, I don't need a man to help me run my country type of Queen but, I feel like we got the typical proper royal instead. Now Sidonie I really liked. Her and Dragon were my favorite. Which is a little disappointing because I really like the bad boy vibe Rowan has going on. I'm also really interested to see if anything happens between Finn and Adelphie.
Oh and Cicilly and Nick... There is something going on there and I must know more!
Over all I did enjoy this book. I was looking for something a little more adult since I've been reading a lot of young adult lately. I wasn't disappointed ;)
I guess my main problem was that I didn't really enjoy Bree as much as the other characters. I didn't really dislike her but, seeing as she's the main character, I expect a lot more out of her. The other characters seem to over shadow her. I guess I was looking for more of a badass, I don't need a man to help me run my country type of Queen but, I feel like we got the typical proper royal instead. Now Sidonie I really liked. Her and Dragon were my favorite. Which is a little disappointing because I really like the bad boy vibe Rowan has going on. I'm also really interested to see if anything happens between Finn and Adelphie.
Oh and Cicilly and Nick... There is something going on there and I must know more!
May 31, 2017
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was a little confused going into this novel because I wasn’t sure what to expect. From what I have researched, this is supposedly young adult. While the writing style makes it seem YA, there themes not appropriate for that age range. I guess new adult would be more appropriate?
Regardless, the cover is absolutely gorgeous and reflect the feel of the novel. As a fan of fantasy and fairytale retellings, Everealm was a novel I didn’t even know I was looking for. The world and creatures she paints with her words are nostalgic of old childhood fairytales. While it still has many [cliché] themes that seem to be found in all YA novels (love triangle, etc.), the author added her own touch. It is a guilty pleasure feel good novel, free of heavy complexities that makes a novel more work than pleasure.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel and the feel that accompanied reading it. It is nothing groundbreaking, but the author has a lovely style that could be great.
I was a little confused going into this novel because I wasn’t sure what to expect. From what I have researched, this is supposedly young adult. While the writing style makes it seem YA, there themes not appropriate for that age range. I guess new adult would be more appropriate?
Regardless, the cover is absolutely gorgeous and reflect the feel of the novel. As a fan of fantasy and fairytale retellings, Everealm was a novel I didn’t even know I was looking for. The world and creatures she paints with her words are nostalgic of old childhood fairytales. While it still has many [cliché] themes that seem to be found in all YA novels (love triangle, etc.), the author added her own touch. It is a guilty pleasure feel good novel, free of heavy complexities that makes a novel more work than pleasure.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel and the feel that accompanied reading it. It is nothing groundbreaking, but the author has a lovely style that could be great.
January 13, 2016
Received as an ARC from NetGalley
I don't read romance novels very often anymore as I find them to be too cliched after a while, however I decided to give Everealm a try mainly because the covers were way too pretty to pass up. The story itself is fairly interesting and isn't very stereotypical of the romance genre, very much a stereotypical fantasy book but I'm more okay with that. The characters are not particularly unique but the men are dreamy anyways. The amount of couples that were introduced and fell in love in this one book was way too many it kept distracting me and there was no way to tell who the main characters were and what the main plot was. It felt like four books mashed into one and it was a little hard to get through at times. For me the worst part was the writing style. It was extremely juvenile at times and frequently felt disconnected. I've received the second book as well as an ARC and I'm going to read it in the hopes that the good things from the first book stay the same and the things that I disliked improved with experience.
I don't read romance novels very often anymore as I find them to be too cliched after a while, however I decided to give Everealm a try mainly because the covers were way too pretty to pass up. The story itself is fairly interesting and isn't very stereotypical of the romance genre, very much a stereotypical fantasy book but I'm more okay with that. The characters are not particularly unique but the men are dreamy anyways. The amount of couples that were introduced and fell in love in this one book was way too many it kept distracting me and there was no way to tell who the main characters were and what the main plot was. It felt like four books mashed into one and it was a little hard to get through at times. For me the worst part was the writing style. It was extremely juvenile at times and frequently felt disconnected. I've received the second book as well as an ARC and I'm going to read it in the hopes that the good things from the first book stay the same and the things that I disliked improved with experience.
February 10, 2016
I wanted to read this because I love fantasy settings with castles, knights, wizards, etc. Some characters did grow on me and I enjoyed how we got a little bit of time with each of them. I like that this is the story of the younger generation moving in to replace some of the older generation in some huge shoes to fill.
The Bad
There are so many mentions of rape that I just couldn't get past. The rape with the fairy flashback that Rowen had served no purpose but to show that fairies existed and that could've been achieved with a completely different flashback.
The Romance
Well there is definitely romance everywhere. This is an adult read for sure as the inhabitants of this castle are getting it on all over the place.
The Conclusion
All in all, while this had potential to be a really good story, it didn't make it there for me. I was too busy shaking my head at the idea of all the rape going on and how Silas was killing his babies with a potion. I will not be continuing with the series.
The Bad
There are so many mentions of rape that I just couldn't get past. The rape with the fairy flashback that Rowen had served no purpose but to show that fairies existed and that could've been achieved with a completely different flashback.
The Romance
Well there is definitely romance everywhere. This is an adult read for sure as the inhabitants of this castle are getting it on all over the place.
The Conclusion
All in all, while this had potential to be a really good story, it didn't make it there for me. I was too busy shaking my head at the idea of all the rape going on and how Silas was killing his babies with a potion. I will not be continuing with the series.
December 29, 2015
I am unsure of how I feel about this book. The beginning was great; we are given the background of Bree and Rowan, which is necessary. But then, I don't know, something gets lost. At times I felt that I was reading a young teen novel - the situations are never dire, the characters are practically insta-loving all over the place and problems almost solve themselves. However, the intimate scenes were definitely X-rated and not for young teen eyes.
The characters were very interesting and likable. The villain(s) were extremely evil and scary. I wish she had done a little more world-building, though. The realm sounds amazing but we really only get glimpses as to what it's like.
The ending is too conveniently wrapped up, although it leaves an opening for a sequel. Overall, a decent attempt and will probably read book 2.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.)
The characters were very interesting and likable. The villain(s) were extremely evil and scary. I wish she had done a little more world-building, though. The realm sounds amazing but we really only get glimpses as to what it's like.
The ending is too conveniently wrapped up, although it leaves an opening for a sequel. Overall, a decent attempt and will probably read book 2.
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.)
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