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The Book of Whispers
Tuscany, 1096 AD. Luca, young heir to the title of Conte de Falconi, sees demons. Since no one else can see them, Luca must keep quiet about what he sees.
Luca also has dreams—dreams that sometimes predict the future. Luca sees his father murdered in one such dream and vows to stop it coming true. Even if he has to go against his father’s wishes and follow him on the great pilgrimage to capture the Holy Lands.
When Luca is given an ancient book that holds some inscrutable power, he knows he’s been thrown into an adventure that will lead to places beyond his understanding. But with the help of Suzan, the beautiful girl he rescues from the desert, he will realise his true quest: to defeat the forces of man and demon that wish to destroy the world.
Luca also has dreams—dreams that sometimes predict the future. Luca sees his father murdered in one such dream and vows to stop it coming true. Even if he has to go against his father’s wishes and follow him on the great pilgrimage to capture the Holy Lands.
When Luca is given an ancient book that holds some inscrutable power, he knows he’s been thrown into an adventure that will lead to places beyond his understanding. But with the help of Suzan, the beautiful girl he rescues from the desert, he will realise his true quest: to defeat the forces of man and demon that wish to destroy the world.
386 pages, Paperback
First published October 3, 2016
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507 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
February 23, 2018
I couldn't get into this one at all although the premise was really good. It's YA but really didn't feel it. The idea of every little thing having it's own demon felt a little weird. It made for a very busy world.
I liked the idea of the magic and demons but for me it didn't gel well with the crusades story. This is the second book recently I've read that's tried to do this and I didn't like that either so maybe this is just a style that isn't for me.
This one just wasn't my book. Free arc from netgalley
I liked the idea of the magic and demons but for me it didn't gel well with the crusades story. This is the second book recently I've read that's tried to do this and I didn't like that either so maybe this is just a style that isn't for me.
This one just wasn't my book. Free arc from netgalley
January 30, 2020
Not sure what felt off putting to me about this book in particular. It's a book about the crusades and has some magic realism to it involving demons. Also it is a book intended for a younger audience and it did feel some what juvenile while I was reading it. I just had a hard time getting into this book. I didn't hate it but the writing wasn't for me and I also just generally find the middle ages boring including the crusades. I also just didn't feel attached to any of the characters and they felt like they lacked complexity/depth. I think I've just outgrown the point where being told everything that is going on feels annoying. I know there are other reviewers that enjoyed the book so I would also look to see what they thought when deciding on whether or not to pick up this one. I think my reaction is really subjective for this one and just has to do with a confluence of things that have to do with my own preferences.
June 21, 2017
This book took me by surprise has been so fun, full of magic and action
I want to thank to NetGalley and Text Publishing Company for providing me with this copy in exchange for an honest review
4/5 Strars
You can find this and more of my reviews on my blog A Book. A Thought.
I was a bit worried when I started with it since it's a historical fiction, I wasn't sure if it would catch me, but the promise of demons and magic kept me interested, and when I was halfway through the book I realized that the fact that it was a historical fiction hadn't affected in any way my enjoyment for it, in fact it has made me feel more confident to try more of the genre soon
The book begins in Tuscany around the year 1090, I'm sorry I don't remember the year exactly, following Luca, he's the young heir to the title of Count of Falconi, which is a great weight on his shoulders, but the big issue here is that he's able to see demons and also has premonitory dreams of what seems to be the murder of his father, this is something that torments Luca for which he decides, although it's prohibited to him, to follow his father on his journey from Italy towards Jerusalem in the crusades, along with Suzana a girl with a mysterious lineage who can also see demons, and from here they begin with their adventure
I had heard some people say that it was a rather slow book to read and that you enter the main story just after a couple of chapters, and I can say that it's actually true, you get into the real plot maybe after the 100 pages, but I didn't find it difficult to get into it, in fact, I think that everything that happens before is super important since we know more the main character, his family, and his affections and for me it has been enjoyable.
I like Luca as main character I think he has an inner strength that has trapped me, he has made me want to discover everything as much as he, I think he's a young man a bit careless at first, a little clumsy with his actions but he grows a lot during his journey and that's great, I still like it very much as it's a character who defends what he thinks, that has been super valued. Suzana has been incredible, she's a great leader, she's very strong and mysterious and I think in the end her story has catch me much more, it's very interesting
I think it would be amazing if there would be a sequel at some point, but on the other hand, it's a book that seems to me to be very good on its own, so if you're looking for a stand-alone and you enjoy historical fiction then it's a book that you should try, besides being very entertaining has also been very informative for me, I learned more about the crusades and the passings of the time and I liked that aspect of it
The book is narrated in a very nice but simple way but it has cost me a bit of getting used to it, in fact now that I've finished itI don't really feel that this is a book that falls into the YA category but I've found it more like a Middle Grade, since the only thing by which it's considered a YA book is for the age of the characters, I think the writer has focused a lot on the aspect of the adventure leaving everything quite simple, which may like you once you enter into it, even though I feel that for me, I would have liked to know more about why certain things happened and the why of some actions or to know more about some characters, but it ends up being enjoyable although I've lacked a little bit to be really a more solid read
Anyway, I highly recommend it if you want to go on a very entertaining journey full of demons, magic and love, as well as being located in a super interesting historical moment
did-not-finish
July 23, 2017DNF @ 61%
There's a distinct oddness to this book. It's a YA book set during the crusades. We have a lead gal and guy from very different walks of life. I was really enjoying the demons and stories of our characters right up until they met each other (45% in). And then all of a sudden the magic was gone. Yet ironically the introduction of a lot of convenient magic shortly after that is what turned me off in the end.
I love fantasy, but magic needs to be used so as not to just set-up convenient ways to travel, time to change, items to only work for some, etc. It's like every magical thing that happens in this book is very convenient. As this is one of my biggest pet peeves ever I decided I was done with The Book of Whispers.
It may very well have an amazing and profound ending but getting there just got too difficult. The last couple days I've thought to read this book my response is very dull. Like I'm not really interested. Once I'm reading that improves but it's almost like this book is a slump in and of itself.
I am giving it two stars, even though I didn't finish it.
I have a few reasons for still liking much of it:
1) the writing is quite good. I would look forward to and read a future book by Kimberley Starr.
2) our two main characters are interesting people. They could use a bit more depth and emotion during their POV scenes but overall I didn't dislike either of them.
3) the demon concept is interesting and ties in very well to the time period. The crusades were a time of massive superstition, religious war and all around distrust. The setting is well chosen.
The main things that need improving:
1) as discussed above, not using magic as a convenient excuse for plot to happen
2) the adults surrounding our two teens need to have a bit more development to really add depth to the story.
3) historical facts are pretty few and far between in this. If you're going to use a famous time in history it's best to make sure you really understand why it happened.
4) there is excitement missing from this book. Lots of exciting things happen but somehow I didn't get excited during them. A great writer makes you feel what your characters feel and puts you in the scene and story.
Overall if you are very intrigued by the book blurb then check it out. But if you have hundreds of other books to read I'd skip this one. That said I would still read Starr again in the hopes that her writing improves. I think there is real potential for her and I hope to see more from her.
To read this and more of my reviews visit my blog at Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
There's a distinct oddness to this book. It's a YA book set during the crusades. We have a lead gal and guy from very different walks of life. I was really enjoying the demons and stories of our characters right up until they met each other (45% in). And then all of a sudden the magic was gone. Yet ironically the introduction of a lot of convenient magic shortly after that is what turned me off in the end.
I love fantasy, but magic needs to be used so as not to just set-up convenient ways to travel, time to change, items to only work for some, etc. It's like every magical thing that happens in this book is very convenient. As this is one of my biggest pet peeves ever I decided I was done with The Book of Whispers.
It may very well have an amazing and profound ending but getting there just got too difficult. The last couple days I've thought to read this book my response is very dull. Like I'm not really interested. Once I'm reading that improves but it's almost like this book is a slump in and of itself.
I am giving it two stars, even though I didn't finish it.
I have a few reasons for still liking much of it:
1) the writing is quite good. I would look forward to and read a future book by Kimberley Starr.
2) our two main characters are interesting people. They could use a bit more depth and emotion during their POV scenes but overall I didn't dislike either of them.
3) the demon concept is interesting and ties in very well to the time period. The crusades were a time of massive superstition, religious war and all around distrust. The setting is well chosen.
The main things that need improving:
1) as discussed above, not using magic as a convenient excuse for plot to happen
2) the adults surrounding our two teens need to have a bit more development to really add depth to the story.
3) historical facts are pretty few and far between in this. If you're going to use a famous time in history it's best to make sure you really understand why it happened.
4) there is excitement missing from this book. Lots of exciting things happen but somehow I didn't get excited during them. A great writer makes you feel what your characters feel and puts you in the scene and story.
Overall if you are very intrigued by the book blurb then check it out. But if you have hundreds of other books to read I'd skip this one. That said I would still read Starr again in the hopes that her writing improves. I think there is real potential for her and I hope to see more from her.
To read this and more of my reviews visit my blog at Epic Reading
Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.
July 30, 2018
Our story takes part in the crusade period. We travel along with Luke, the heir of Conte de Falconi, to Jerusalem and its salvation.
On the voyage you add Suzan daughter of a nun who runs it violently from the monastery that lived all these years and away from the only person who understood her. Her mother.
On this journey we see a part of Italy at that time, we know the Byzantine city of Constantinople, and we understand it is to go from one end of the world to the other whether it is on foot or on board the boat or even on your horse.
And all this journey is done along with demonic shadows that swallow and scatter people so easily ... and having a shield of protection, a book that unlocks in the hands of a revenge. We know the magic, the superstition, the needs of the time. We also know a part of history that was stained with blood in the name of God.
The book was well written. Ιt tired me a little at first until Lucas meets Susan. After that, however, the reading found its way and the story became more enjoyable.
The truth is, I liked the story of Susan more than Luca's. However, the author has been braving both on the story she thought she was writing and on the research she made.
3.5 shady stars on the pages of the book hidden.
On the voyage you add Suzan daughter of a nun who runs it violently from the monastery that lived all these years and away from the only person who understood her. Her mother.
On this journey we see a part of Italy at that time, we know the Byzantine city of Constantinople, and we understand it is to go from one end of the world to the other whether it is on foot or on board the boat or even on your horse.
And all this journey is done along with demonic shadows that swallow and scatter people so easily ... and having a shield of protection, a book that unlocks in the hands of a revenge. We know the magic, the superstition, the needs of the time. We also know a part of history that was stained with blood in the name of God.
The book was well written. Ιt tired me a little at first until Lucas meets Susan. After that, however, the reading found its way and the story became more enjoyable.
The truth is, I liked the story of Susan more than Luca's. However, the author has been braving both on the story she thought she was writing and on the research she made.
3.5 shady stars on the pages of the book hidden.
September 18, 2019
Greatly appreciate stories based on legends and mythology. However, I could not get into this YA story of demons. Therefore, I’m not the right reviewer for this book. This most likely will appeal to the audience it targets.
@FB: Best Historical Fiction
@FB: Best Historical Fiction
August 28, 2017
A refreshingly
original
and
gripping
novel.
The year is 1096.
Pope Urban II calls for a military expedition to regain the Holy Land. This quest is now known as the First Crusade.
Luca is the heir to the title of Conte de Falconi. He is not an ordinary young man. He sees things other people can't see. He knows there are demons attached to every object a human holds dear. He has strange dreams that may predict the future. He becomes the owner of the most powerful book that holds secrets others would kill for. He joins the pilgrimage. He doesn't even know what he's destined for and whom he'll meet.
Writing a book set in this particular time period and making sure that some demon action happens as well is something I never came across in YA literature. Being innovative though means taking risks and expecting some high hopes from your readers. I can't say I was completely mind-blown by this novel but I can't say I did not enjoy it either because that would be an outright lie. This book was a pleasant adventure!
However, if I had to evaluate this book merely based on the setting, my rating would not be that high. The Book of Whispers is a plot-and-character driven novel and sometimes, there isn't enough historical background to accompany the story. The plot itself is based on history but the details are what make a historical novel good. The clothing, the architecture could be described and focused on a bit more. That way, the book would engage the reader's imagination even better. Even so, I do believe that a lot of research went into this book.
When it comes to the writing, there was a contrast to it. Occasionally, it felt too simple when other times, it was very mature. I'm not even sure to what age group I would recommend this book to. It does feel middle-gradish but the characters are in their late teens and there are some brutal scenes that are probably inappropriate for a younger audience.
Generally speaking, I liked the characters. Not all of them are well-developed but some of them grew on me, that's true.
Luca seemed a little spoiled but I won't elaborate too much on that since he is a man of power with a future title on his shoulders. Although spoiled, he was kind-hearted and likeable. The one thing that bothered me was him constantly acting on a whim. Luca would often act impulsively. And he reminded me of adog. A dog thinks: "Oh, I'm thirsty" and runs to the water bowl.
This book is an easy, relaxing and fun read that could be enjoyed by anyone whose expectations aren't too high!
➨ An E-arc of this book was provided to me by the publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
“We cry enough tears to salt our meal, to fill our flasks.”
The year is 1096.
Pope Urban II calls for a military expedition to regain the Holy Land. This quest is now known as the First Crusade.
Luca is the heir to the title of Conte de Falconi. He is not an ordinary young man. He sees things other people can't see. He knows there are demons attached to every object a human holds dear. He has strange dreams that may predict the future. He becomes the owner of the most powerful book that holds secrets others would kill for. He joins the pilgrimage. He doesn't even know what he's destined for and whom he'll meet.
Writing a book set in this particular time period and making sure that some demon action happens as well is something I never came across in YA literature. Being innovative though means taking risks and expecting some high hopes from your readers. I can't say I was completely mind-blown by this novel but I can't say I did not enjoy it either because that would be an outright lie. This book was a pleasant adventure!
However, if I had to evaluate this book merely based on the setting, my rating would not be that high. The Book of Whispers is a plot-and-character driven novel and sometimes, there isn't enough historical background to accompany the story. The plot itself is based on history but the details are what make a historical novel good. The clothing, the architecture could be described and focused on a bit more. That way, the book would engage the reader's imagination even better. Even so, I do believe that a lot of research went into this book.
“There's an eternity of a kind in words.”
When it comes to the writing, there was a contrast to it. Occasionally, it felt too simple when other times, it was very mature. I'm not even sure to what age group I would recommend this book to. It does feel middle-gradish but the characters are in their late teens and there are some brutal scenes that are probably inappropriate for a younger audience.
“Our mortal enemies make vile accusations, but they don't have to change who we are.”
Generally speaking, I liked the characters. Not all of them are well-developed but some of them grew on me, that's true.
Luca seemed a little spoiled but I won't elaborate too much on that since he is a man of power with a future title on his shoulders. Although spoiled, he was kind-hearted and likeable. The one thing that bothered me was him constantly acting on a whim. Luca would often act impulsively. And he reminded me of a
This book is an easy, relaxing and fun read that could be enjoyed by anyone whose expectations aren't too high!
➨ An E-arc of this book was provided to me by the publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
June 13, 2017
I'm not sure where to start with The Book of Whispers because I was all over the place with my thoughts on this book. When I say I'm a fan of historical fiction, I mean, I'm a huge fan of Victorian England historical fiction. So 11th century Tuscany wasn't something I ever thought I'd be super interested in. And I have to admit when I first started the book... I wasn't.
When The Book of Whispers begins, we find Luca at home dealing with his cousin - whose character reminded me of that annoying tag on that sweater you never wear because the tag drives you crazy. That was Narlo's character in a nutshell, so at first, when I thought Narlo would be one of the main antagonists, I was disappointed.
The book was very slow to start and with longish chapter lengths, I was concerned the book would take forever to pick up. It didn't. When more permanent characters came into play, like Suzan and Sir Mattiolas, the book became much more relatable and enjoyable as I began to see the different facets that made up each character as they interacted with each other. I actually ended up reading the last 60% of the book overnight, and finished it around 6 A.M. this morning - that's how much this book picked up.
This book has nearly everything: Demons, war, love, magic... what else do you really want in a YA fantasy novel, amirite? The only thing that really bothered me was that I'm not a huge fan of first person, present tense writing, but with the quality of the story, I was able to overlook my preference in writing style and enjoy the book nonetheless.
When The Book of Whispers begins, we find Luca at home dealing with his cousin - whose character reminded me of that annoying tag on that sweater you never wear because the tag drives you crazy. That was Narlo's character in a nutshell, so at first, when I thought Narlo would be one of the main antagonists, I was disappointed.
The book was very slow to start and with longish chapter lengths, I was concerned the book would take forever to pick up. It didn't. When more permanent characters came into play, like Suzan and Sir Mattiolas, the book became much more relatable and enjoyable as I began to see the different facets that made up each character as they interacted with each other. I actually ended up reading the last 60% of the book overnight, and finished it around 6 A.M. this morning - that's how much this book picked up.
This book has nearly everything: Demons, war, love, magic... what else do you really want in a YA fantasy novel, amirite? The only thing that really bothered me was that I'm not a huge fan of first person, present tense writing, but with the quality of the story, I was able to overlook my preference in writing style and enjoy the book nonetheless.
October 20, 2016
Wow, this was awesome. I didn't know a whole lot about the crusades for some reason, and now I feel so sad at the horrors that are committed in the name of religion over and over.
Review posted on Tea in the Treetops in October 2016:
The Book of Whispers is Kimberley Starr’s winner of the Text Prize for 2015. It’s a story of love, loss and demons, in the crusade to free Jerusalem from the Saracens.
Luca, the son and heir of the Conte de Falconi, sees demons, a fact he keeps well hidden after his attempted exorcism as a child. When his father heads off to join the Princes on the Holy Crusade, Luca is not content to stay behind and look after their estate in San Gimignano, Tuscany. He secures a place on the holy pilgrimage, bringing along the mysterious book that his father gave him, along with its attached demon.
Suzan lives in Cappadocia with her mother in an underground monastery. She sees a vision of a great army approaching, and when the local priest tries to attack her, she escapes and flees into the wilderness, finding a group of pilgrims heading for Jerusalem.
The journey taken by the crusaders from Europe all the way to Jerusalem is a long and bloody one, with battles, starvation, thirst and sickness dogging them along the way. Yes, there are demons driving the evils done in the name of God, but it’s a sad reminder just how bloody and vicious holy wars have been through the ages.
Luca and Suzan’s romance is a sweet one, even if it seems a little instant, but they make a great team, relying on each other to foil the demons’ plans. The Book of Whispers itself is almost an extra character in the story, revealing its secrets in bits and pieces. I was never quite sure which side the book was on!
The descriptions of the ancient places are amazing, and I’m fairly sure it’s not just because I’ve been to some of the places visited. I loved the description of Jerusalem, and I hope I might get to visit it one day, not for religious reasons, but because the whole place is such a crossroads of cultures and holy sites – it sounds wonderful. Maybe one day when the region isn’t so war-torn, if that ever happens.
In all, The Book of Whispers is an excellent stand-alone story – real-life history augmented with demons!
Review posted on Tea in the Treetops in October 2016:
The Book of Whispers is Kimberley Starr’s winner of the Text Prize for 2015. It’s a story of love, loss and demons, in the crusade to free Jerusalem from the Saracens.
Luca, the son and heir of the Conte de Falconi, sees demons, a fact he keeps well hidden after his attempted exorcism as a child. When his father heads off to join the Princes on the Holy Crusade, Luca is not content to stay behind and look after their estate in San Gimignano, Tuscany. He secures a place on the holy pilgrimage, bringing along the mysterious book that his father gave him, along with its attached demon.
Suzan lives in Cappadocia with her mother in an underground monastery. She sees a vision of a great army approaching, and when the local priest tries to attack her, she escapes and flees into the wilderness, finding a group of pilgrims heading for Jerusalem.
The journey taken by the crusaders from Europe all the way to Jerusalem is a long and bloody one, with battles, starvation, thirst and sickness dogging them along the way. Yes, there are demons driving the evils done in the name of God, but it’s a sad reminder just how bloody and vicious holy wars have been through the ages.
Luca and Suzan’s romance is a sweet one, even if it seems a little instant, but they make a great team, relying on each other to foil the demons’ plans. The Book of Whispers itself is almost an extra character in the story, revealing its secrets in bits and pieces. I was never quite sure which side the book was on!
The descriptions of the ancient places are amazing, and I’m fairly sure it’s not just because I’ve been to some of the places visited. I loved the description of Jerusalem, and I hope I might get to visit it one day, not for religious reasons, but because the whole place is such a crossroads of cultures and holy sites – it sounds wonderful. Maybe one day when the region isn’t so war-torn, if that ever happens.
In all, The Book of Whispers is an excellent stand-alone story – real-life history augmented with demons!
June 14, 2017
This is the first YA novel that I have encountered which takes place during the Crusades. I think high school students who have some background knowledge of the Crusades would thoroughly enjoy this book. The vivid descriptions of young Luca's encounters on his way to Jerusalem transport the reader back in time. The conflict with the demons who prey upon the pilgrims creates an original twist to the story line, which I think a majority of teens would find alluring. I will suggest this book to my World History students.
June 18, 2017
This review and others can be found at www.reachingwhilerooted.com
A believable combination of fantasy and historical fiction, the novel is a look at the Crusades if they were being inspired and driven by a host of demons. The book follows Suzan, a girl who was raised in a convent, and Luca a recently titled Conte as they try to save the world from a host of demons (which only they can see), and their experiences with the brutal and atrocious realities that made up one of the most turbulent and horrific periods of Medieval history.
A part of the pilgrim force that marched from Europe to their final destination in Jerusalem, the unlikely pair must use a book that is Luca's inheritance to decipher prophecies and stop the demons and cohorts who would take over the world. The book is a combination of magic, romance, and action, with the characters doing the best they can to bring good to a fallen world.
The writing is well done and the plot moved at a good pace. My only criticism is the transitions—it often felt as if I were being swept quickly into the next part of the story with not enough closure or preparation. I would be following along and next thing I know I have been picked up and dropped into the next scene. This caused for some confusion and reorientation to the timeline and what was occurring, though it was a small detracting factor to an otherwise solid work.
*Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and author for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a honest review. All opinions stated here are my own.
A believable combination of fantasy and historical fiction, the novel is a look at the Crusades if they were being inspired and driven by a host of demons. The book follows Suzan, a girl who was raised in a convent, and Luca a recently titled Conte as they try to save the world from a host of demons (which only they can see), and their experiences with the brutal and atrocious realities that made up one of the most turbulent and horrific periods of Medieval history.
A part of the pilgrim force that marched from Europe to their final destination in Jerusalem, the unlikely pair must use a book that is Luca's inheritance to decipher prophecies and stop the demons and cohorts who would take over the world. The book is a combination of magic, romance, and action, with the characters doing the best they can to bring good to a fallen world.
The writing is well done and the plot moved at a good pace. My only criticism is the transitions—it often felt as if I were being swept quickly into the next part of the story with not enough closure or preparation. I would be following along and next thing I know I have been picked up and dropped into the next scene. This caused for some confusion and reorientation to the timeline and what was occurring, though it was a small detracting factor to an otherwise solid work.
*Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and author for providing me with a free copy in exchange for a honest review. All opinions stated here are my own.
October 22, 2016
This was intense, informative and enthralling. Adventure, magic and mayhem bound by beautiful, evocative language. A must read!
October 23, 2017
The crusades are a rich and interesting time in our history. It’s a period in time that isn’t common amongst fiction writers (well not the ones I’ve read anyway).
Taking a little creative license, Kimberley adds a layer of the fantastical to an already intriguing and busy plot by adding demons.
The addition of demons to an already religion-charged story would always raise a few eyebrows, but despite there being a strong religious and spiritual backbone to the story, there were only a few times throughout that felt a trifle overwhelming. I expected there to be more instances of that.
The simple fact that a large chunk of this book is taken up by thousands of people walking thousands of miles, makes for a slow burn of a read.
Kimberley did well to intersperse the continuous travel with action and character development. But it’s not all roses.
I quite liked Suzan’s character, but felt like we only ever got half a look at her. She felt under developed and used as a crutch to carry the story.
Luca irritated me, Mattiolas was but a pawn to use to create drama and tension but little else, and don’t get me started on Serafina (she started out well but swiftly turned into a ditzy Princess who constantly needed to be saved!)
I also have concerns about how much negativity is heaped upon Suzan being the ‘ugly nun’ and how the men (and women) treated her with little more than open hostility. Is this book trying to talk to society’s trend of attributing goodness to beauty? If so, it doesn’t work. Instead, it feels forced and adds nothing to the story.
I did like Kimberley’s take on demons, particularly Thanatos and Percy. I’d have liked more on the demons and more female characters that held their own.
I was left with some questions that I feel deserved more closure than they got. Luca’s father, Suzan’s mother and Thanatos just to name a few.
Overall, this held my interest but only just. I feel more could be done to engage the reader and build a stronger story. It has interesting ideas and a fantastic historical backdrop, but it drops the ball and doesn’t live up to that strong setting.
**Note: I received an electronic copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Taking a little creative license, Kimberley adds a layer of the fantastical to an already intriguing and busy plot by adding demons.
The addition of demons to an already religion-charged story would always raise a few eyebrows, but despite there being a strong religious and spiritual backbone to the story, there were only a few times throughout that felt a trifle overwhelming. I expected there to be more instances of that.
The simple fact that a large chunk of this book is taken up by thousands of people walking thousands of miles, makes for a slow burn of a read.
Kimberley did well to intersperse the continuous travel with action and character development. But it’s not all roses.
I quite liked Suzan’s character, but felt like we only ever got half a look at her. She felt under developed and used as a crutch to carry the story.
Luca irritated me, Mattiolas was but a pawn to use to create drama and tension but little else, and don’t get me started on Serafina (she started out well but swiftly turned into a ditzy Princess who constantly needed to be saved!)
I also have concerns about how much negativity is heaped upon Suzan being the ‘ugly nun’ and how the men (and women) treated her with little more than open hostility. Is this book trying to talk to society’s trend of attributing goodness to beauty? If so, it doesn’t work. Instead, it feels forced and adds nothing to the story.
I did like Kimberley’s take on demons, particularly Thanatos and Percy. I’d have liked more on the demons and more female characters that held their own.
I was left with some questions that I feel deserved more closure than they got. Luca’s father, Suzan’s mother and Thanatos just to name a few.
Overall, this held my interest but only just. I feel more could be done to engage the reader and build a stronger story. It has interesting ideas and a fantastic historical backdrop, but it drops the ball and doesn’t live up to that strong setting.
**Note: I received an electronic copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
July 28, 2017
Sometimes I browse Netgalley. I don’t do it often, but when I do my eye sometimes stumbles on some titles. Of course with a title like The Book of Whispers there was no way that was going to escape my attention. Also the cover I found very eye catching. Unfortunately the book could not quite live up to it.
If I had to describe my reading experience of The Book of Whispers in one word it would be boring. I was bored for most of the book. Especially the start of the book really had nothing that drew me in except the mention of demons. The demons were interesting. The book was interesting. But it stayed with that. It lacked depth. Who created the book for instance? While it slightly picked up after the introduction of another character to the main story line it still could not hook me. I think for me that was because of the pacing, the writing style and the characters.
The pacing just felt off. There would be portions of the story that would go on and on like the camping, but the actual traveling flew past as did the sieges of the cities though they were just the backdrops. There were also events that were important to the story that would fly by in a page while the love conversation could get a few pages.
Added to that was that the writing style is very simple. I don’t think there is anything wrong with that as long as you make every word count. If you do that a simplistic writing style can really draw a reader into a story. But in this case that failed. I missed details of the surroundings. I didn’t feel like we were specifically in that time period for instance. There was no feel in this book. There were just simple words that couldn’t sway me left or right. Added to that, at some point the chapters would switch between our two main characters within the chapters with first person point of view. It kept drawing me out of the story.
Which brings us to the characters. Initially I thought Luca could be interesting but that never came to be. He didn’t truly change. There was little growth in him. He was a brash and stubborn kid and even when he became conte there was very little change to that. Suzan did spice things up a little. Unfortunately there was a forced romantic relationship there with some ‘troubles’ of course. As for Suzan, she could have been a great character if she had been worked out better. There is a lot around her, concerning twists, but in the end that didn’t quite get wrapped up. In fact, it almost felt like these things are kept open for a chance for a next book.
If I had to describe my reading experience of The Book of Whispers in one word it would be boring. I was bored for most of the book. Especially the start of the book really had nothing that drew me in except the mention of demons. The demons were interesting. The book was interesting. But it stayed with that. It lacked depth. Who created the book for instance? While it slightly picked up after the introduction of another character to the main story line it still could not hook me. I think for me that was because of the pacing, the writing style and the characters.
The pacing just felt off. There would be portions of the story that would go on and on like the camping, but the actual traveling flew past as did the sieges of the cities though they were just the backdrops. There were also events that were important to the story that would fly by in a page while the love conversation could get a few pages.
Added to that was that the writing style is very simple. I don’t think there is anything wrong with that as long as you make every word count. If you do that a simplistic writing style can really draw a reader into a story. But in this case that failed. I missed details of the surroundings. I didn’t feel like we were specifically in that time period for instance. There was no feel in this book. There were just simple words that couldn’t sway me left or right. Added to that, at some point the chapters would switch between our two main characters within the chapters with first person point of view. It kept drawing me out of the story.
Which brings us to the characters. Initially I thought Luca could be interesting but that never came to be. He didn’t truly change. There was little growth in him. He was a brash and stubborn kid and even when he became conte there was very little change to that. Suzan did spice things up a little. Unfortunately there was a forced romantic relationship there with some ‘troubles’ of course. As for Suzan, she could have been a great character if she had been worked out better. There is a lot around her, concerning twists, but in the end that didn’t quite get wrapped up. In fact, it almost felt like these things are kept open for a chance for a next book.
February 9, 2018
‘An epic novel that merges history, make-believe, romance and the harshness of the Middle Ages.’
PS News
‘A stunning mix of high action, enthralling history and mesmerising magic.’
Alison Goodman, author of New York Times bestsellers Eon and Eona
‘The Book of Whispers combines history, fantasy, romance and the brutality of the Middle Ages in a satisfyingly epic novel.’
Books+Publishing
‘The Book of Whispers is fast paced and bloody in parts, not shying away from the brutality of the period and the atrocities committed during the Crusades; but it also shrewdly challenges the reader to think about religion, extremism and tolerance - particularly in relation to a region where those topics have particular significance.’
Lamont Books
‘One of my favourites of this year.’
Tea in the Treetops
‘This is a memorable book that will make the reader think about the futility of war and the ugliness of religious bigotry. At the same time the adventure and mayhem that Luca and Suzan face will carry the reader through to the thrilling end.’
ReadPlus
‘The Book of Whispers embraces its fantastical aspects without sacrificing the concrete, and offers an introspective glance into human nature.’
Foreword Reviews
PS News
‘A stunning mix of high action, enthralling history and mesmerising magic.’
Alison Goodman, author of New York Times bestsellers Eon and Eona
‘The Book of Whispers combines history, fantasy, romance and the brutality of the Middle Ages in a satisfyingly epic novel.’
Books+Publishing
‘The Book of Whispers is fast paced and bloody in parts, not shying away from the brutality of the period and the atrocities committed during the Crusades; but it also shrewdly challenges the reader to think about religion, extremism and tolerance - particularly in relation to a region where those topics have particular significance.’
Lamont Books
‘One of my favourites of this year.’
Tea in the Treetops
‘This is a memorable book that will make the reader think about the futility of war and the ugliness of religious bigotry. At the same time the adventure and mayhem that Luca and Suzan face will carry the reader through to the thrilling end.’
ReadPlus
‘The Book of Whispers embraces its fantastical aspects without sacrificing the concrete, and offers an introspective glance into human nature.’
Foreword Reviews
March 26, 2017
It was hard to rate this book as it wasn't a genre I enjoy. I bought it based on that it won the Text Prize and that it was about the crusades, which I'm very interested in. The writing is excellent and the story very well told, but too much fantasy for me, I didn't enjoy all the demons, but I can appreciate the story telling for a YA audience.
June 21, 2017
Tuscany, 1096 AD. Luca can see demons, and when his father entrusts him with the Book of Whispers, an old family heirloom, his powers seem to intensify. His father is about to embark on a Crusade to "free" Jerusalem from the rule of the Saracens. Luca foresees his father's death in a dream and therefore decides to accompany him to prevent it. On their way to Jerusalem, he meets Suzan, who lives in a convent together with her mother, and who happens to be the only one able to actually read the book. The book predicts that the demons, led by the demon of death, Thanatos, and an evil priest, will try to perform a terrible ritual in Jerusalem. So Luca and Suzan have to devise a plan to stop them.
I have very mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, the author definitely knows the subject she's writing about and thus managed to capture the horrors of the crusades in great detail. On the other hand, the plot and the characters are somewhat wanting. Although Luca's book and the demons he needs to fight with its help are the central plot device, we get little to no information as to why and how. I'd like to know how the book came into being. Who created it and why? The same applies to the demons: why do they seek power at this precise moment? Because they know that the massacres committed by the pilgrims will fuel their powers? Moreover, I had problems with the writing style itself. First of all, some sentences were short without working as a stylistic device, on the contrary, some passages are repetitive and incredibly dull as they add nothing to propel the plot or create atmosphere:
'I lift my face. His eyes are round and sincere. Smoke from burning buildings stains the air. I can trust him. I love him. He's always been kind to me. I do believe him. I stop shaking.'
Secondly, the transitions between the paragraphs and different story lines are not well developed. This makes the reading process a bumpy ride rather than a smooth journey through this world. I would say this book is a bit incoherent as both the text and the plot are not always well developed. Plotholes and awkward passages make for a rather tedious read.
Also, the romance part is pretty annoying. Luca and Suzan never talk about their issues and therefore jump to conclusions about the other's feelings. And this plot line is dragged through the whole story. As is the entire pilgrimage. I understand that the Crusaders took a long time to get to Jerusalem, but in the book, it's just boring because every page is more of the same. The only changes from looking for water and riding through the desert we see are some brutal sieges that don't spare any details of the brutality of the pilgrims.
If you are interested in this historical period, give it a shot, but it, unfortunately, didn't work for me.
(Thanks to Netgalley and Text Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I have very mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, the author definitely knows the subject she's writing about and thus managed to capture the horrors of the crusades in great detail. On the other hand, the plot and the characters are somewhat wanting. Although Luca's book and the demons he needs to fight with its help are the central plot device, we get little to no information as to why and how. I'd like to know how the book came into being. Who created it and why? The same applies to the demons: why do they seek power at this precise moment? Because they know that the massacres committed by the pilgrims will fuel their powers? Moreover, I had problems with the writing style itself. First of all, some sentences were short without working as a stylistic device, on the contrary, some passages are repetitive and incredibly dull as they add nothing to propel the plot or create atmosphere:
'I lift my face. His eyes are round and sincere. Smoke from burning buildings stains the air. I can trust him. I love him. He's always been kind to me. I do believe him. I stop shaking.'
Secondly, the transitions between the paragraphs and different story lines are not well developed. This makes the reading process a bumpy ride rather than a smooth journey through this world. I would say this book is a bit incoherent as both the text and the plot are not always well developed. Plotholes and awkward passages make for a rather tedious read.
Also, the romance part is pretty annoying. Luca and Suzan never talk about their issues and therefore jump to conclusions about the other's feelings. And this plot line is dragged through the whole story. As is the entire pilgrimage. I understand that the Crusaders took a long time to get to Jerusalem, but in the book, it's just boring because every page is more of the same. The only changes from looking for water and riding through the desert we see are some brutal sieges that don't spare any details of the brutality of the pilgrims.
If you are interested in this historical period, give it a shot, but it, unfortunately, didn't work for me.
(Thanks to Netgalley and Text Publishing for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
June 22, 2017
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
"'We each have a different truth,' Brother Bonaccorso agrees. 'But our differences don't mean other people are wrong.'"
Tuscany, 1096 AD. Luca is the heir of the Italian Conte de Falconi with the unfortunate ability to see demons. Joining his father and narcissistic cousin on a pilgrimage to conquer the Holy Lands for Christ, the last thing he expects is to meet a stunning Cappadocian woman or to engage in a battle to save humanity. Suzan, raised in a subterranean convent by her mute mother, is likewise shocked to ally herself with a young knight and his dangerous but noble quest. Using a mystical heirloom of Luca’s family, the pair must race against time to mine the ancient book for clues as to how to defeat the gathering demon forces.
The Book of Whispers struck me as a gem of a story, but sorely lacking polish. A uniquely augmented history, The Book of Whispers is a depiction of the First Crusade as though it had been spurred by demon hoards. Some of the writing, the dialogue in particular, felt shaky and lacking in complexity, which kept me from loving this. Alternatively, the story itself is very mature, not shying from the carnage, bigotry, and horrors of the First Crusade and delving into the sexual curiosities of young Luca and Suzan. I was engaged in the action and the alluring setting, and yet the narrative alternated between dragging unnecessarily and rushing clumsily. I enjoyed the history and incorporation of a discussion of religious extremism, but the style and pacing left me wanting.
"'We each have a different truth,' Brother Bonaccorso agrees. 'But our differences don't mean other people are wrong.'"
Tuscany, 1096 AD. Luca is the heir of the Italian Conte de Falconi with the unfortunate ability to see demons. Joining his father and narcissistic cousin on a pilgrimage to conquer the Holy Lands for Christ, the last thing he expects is to meet a stunning Cappadocian woman or to engage in a battle to save humanity. Suzan, raised in a subterranean convent by her mute mother, is likewise shocked to ally herself with a young knight and his dangerous but noble quest. Using a mystical heirloom of Luca’s family, the pair must race against time to mine the ancient book for clues as to how to defeat the gathering demon forces.
The Book of Whispers struck me as a gem of a story, but sorely lacking polish. A uniquely augmented history, The Book of Whispers is a depiction of the First Crusade as though it had been spurred by demon hoards. Some of the writing, the dialogue in particular, felt shaky and lacking in complexity, which kept me from loving this. Alternatively, the story itself is very mature, not shying from the carnage, bigotry, and horrors of the First Crusade and delving into the sexual curiosities of young Luca and Suzan. I was engaged in the action and the alluring setting, and yet the narrative alternated between dragging unnecessarily and rushing clumsily. I enjoyed the history and incorporation of a discussion of religious extremism, but the style and pacing left me wanting.
March 7, 2018
The Book of Whispers by Kimberley Starr had an intriguing premise, but unfortunately, I just did not find anything exciting about the story.
I tried to read this a few times, but it never did work out. At first, I thought I just wasn't in the mood, so I set it aside. I'm a mood reader and sometimes I like to read more contemporary than fantasy or sci-fi. However, that was not the case at all with this book. While I thought the synopsis was kind of interesting, I just wasn't a big fan of the storyline. I wasn't captivated or into the story at all. I read up to 11% of the book and finally decided to DNF.
I really don't like not finishing a book and I did try to give this one a chance. I thought the writing was decent and the world building was okay from what I read, but it just did not fascinate me.
This book initially drew me in with the premise, but at the end of the day, The Book of Whispers just did not hold my interest. I wasn't excited or entertained at all, so I sadly had to DNF. (My first DNF for 2018).
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
To read more of my reviews, visit Sincerely Karen Jo
I tried to read this a few times, but it never did work out. At first, I thought I just wasn't in the mood, so I set it aside. I'm a mood reader and sometimes I like to read more contemporary than fantasy or sci-fi. However, that was not the case at all with this book. While I thought the synopsis was kind of interesting, I just wasn't a big fan of the storyline. I wasn't captivated or into the story at all. I read up to 11% of the book and finally decided to DNF.
I really don't like not finishing a book and I did try to give this one a chance. I thought the writing was decent and the world building was okay from what I read, but it just did not fascinate me.
This book initially drew me in with the premise, but at the end of the day, The Book of Whispers just did not hold my interest. I wasn't excited or entertained at all, so I sadly had to DNF. (My first DNF for 2018).
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
To read more of my reviews, visit Sincerely Karen Jo
August 18, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book! 😃
I didn't know a lot about the crusades, so this book has left me shell-shocked!
The characters of Luca and Suzan, and the romance they share are all the sweetest things possible in the mayhem of the demons and all the evil that surrounds the pilgrims to Jerusalem.
There was history and there was fiction, there was comedy and there was romance. There was suspense and there was sarcasm.
So all in all, The Book Of Whispers was a power-packed, utterly interesting and awesome read!
I didn't know a lot about the crusades, so this book has left me shell-shocked!
The characters of Luca and Suzan, and the romance they share are all the sweetest things possible in the mayhem of the demons and all the evil that surrounds the pilgrims to Jerusalem.
There was history and there was fiction, there was comedy and there was romance. There was suspense and there was sarcasm.
So all in all, The Book Of Whispers was a power-packed, utterly interesting and awesome read!
Want to read
January 25, 2018I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
June 16, 2017
I liked it. It wasn't terrible.
May 19, 2017
Note: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The Book of Whispers takes place during the Crusades and follows Luca, who can see demons, and Suzan, who has a mysterious lineage and gift. Their stories start off separately and then converge as the two journey with the pilgrims of the Crusade, first to fight the Saracens and then to fight a greater threat – the demons Luca can see are planning something disastrous, and only together with Suzan and a mysterious book handed down through the generations of Luca’s family can they possibly defeat the greatest evil.
In my mind, augmented history books are hard to pull off, because integrating the fantastical with history can sometimes be anachronistic or even come off as cheesy. It may not always mix well in other books, but Kimberley Starr’s writing handles this combination deftly and with incredible skill. The demons, the fact that they existed and were tangible, real things was perfectly natural within the book; as a reader I found it incredibly easy to suspend my disbelief and think that yes, demons exist and they were there during the Crusades. As much as I love fantasy, I can’t always let myself let go like that, but Starr made it easy. Starr works together the fantasy/paranormal elements as well as religion, the brutality of the Middle Ages and the Crusades, and even a romance, and she does make it work.
My only complaints were that some of the antagonists, specifically Narlo, seemed very cookie cutter villain – not too complex, but over the top enough that whenever a scene involved him I was ready for it to be over. I also didn’t like that one of the first scenes is the threat of sexual violence against a young girl, and that this issue was something used to propel Luca’s storyline along. This isn’t necessarily an indictment on Starr’s part – Narlo wasn’t for me, though his motivations and demons made sense, and violence against women as a plot device is definitely a turn off, even though I’m well aware it was common and still is.
I was originally going to give this book three stars but after thinking on it, for Starr’s skill at weaving together all the different elements of The Book of Whispers, I give it four out of 5.
The book is scheduled for a February 2018 release.
The Book of Whispers takes place during the Crusades and follows Luca, who can see demons, and Suzan, who has a mysterious lineage and gift. Their stories start off separately and then converge as the two journey with the pilgrims of the Crusade, first to fight the Saracens and then to fight a greater threat – the demons Luca can see are planning something disastrous, and only together with Suzan and a mysterious book handed down through the generations of Luca’s family can they possibly defeat the greatest evil.
In my mind, augmented history books are hard to pull off, because integrating the fantastical with history can sometimes be anachronistic or even come off as cheesy. It may not always mix well in other books, but Kimberley Starr’s writing handles this combination deftly and with incredible skill. The demons, the fact that they existed and were tangible, real things was perfectly natural within the book; as a reader I found it incredibly easy to suspend my disbelief and think that yes, demons exist and they were there during the Crusades. As much as I love fantasy, I can’t always let myself let go like that, but Starr made it easy. Starr works together the fantasy/paranormal elements as well as religion, the brutality of the Middle Ages and the Crusades, and even a romance, and she does make it work.
My only complaints were that some of the antagonists, specifically Narlo, seemed very cookie cutter villain – not too complex, but over the top enough that whenever a scene involved him I was ready for it to be over. I also didn’t like that one of the first scenes is the threat of sexual violence against a young girl, and that this issue was something used to propel Luca’s storyline along. This isn’t necessarily an indictment on Starr’s part – Narlo wasn’t for me, though his motivations and demons made sense, and violence against women as a plot device is definitely a turn off, even though I’m well aware it was common and still is.
I was originally going to give this book three stars but after thinking on it, for Starr’s skill at weaving together all the different elements of The Book of Whispers, I give it four out of 5.
The book is scheduled for a February 2018 release.
June 27, 2017
Set in the early 1900s, The Book of Whispers is the story of Luca and Suzan. Luca can see demons and that is fact that he keeps well-hidden after a childhood experience. His dreams are like premonitions and so when he sees his father getting murdered, he decides to follow his father on a journey in order to be able to prevent it. That is where he meets Suzan, a girl raised in the convent and on the run after a close call at the convent. The thing is that Suzan too can see the demons. So together they work towards stopping the demons from taking over with a little help from the Book of Whispers.
The Book of Whispers is something that Luca inherited. It is surprising to see a book with almost as many secrets and as much character as a person in the plot. Both Luca and Suzan make for interesting protagonists. There is just enough details given about them to make a reader get acquainted with their characters. I loved the setting quite a bit and how the author has sprinkled little details throughout the book.
The romance in the book adds another element to the plot though I am not very sure of it. It felt kind of instantaneous and then builds on it. It wasn’t really the kind of romance I enjoy, but then again, the romance is not the main focus of the book so it is pretty easy to look beyond it. The book has a slow start, but once all the elements are in place the pace does not lag at all. So, readers need be patient towards the beginning.
Overall, it is a YA Fantasy that will appeal to many.
The Book of Whispers is something that Luca inherited. It is surprising to see a book with almost as many secrets and as much character as a person in the plot. Both Luca and Suzan make for interesting protagonists. There is just enough details given about them to make a reader get acquainted with their characters. I loved the setting quite a bit and how the author has sprinkled little details throughout the book.
The romance in the book adds another element to the plot though I am not very sure of it. It felt kind of instantaneous and then builds on it. It wasn’t really the kind of romance I enjoy, but then again, the romance is not the main focus of the book so it is pretty easy to look beyond it. The book has a slow start, but once all the elements are in place the pace does not lag at all. So, readers need be patient towards the beginning.
Overall, it is a YA Fantasy that will appeal to many.
June 30, 2017
I was given this book by NetGalley for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved this book. It is an excellent teen or adult read. It takes place in the times of the first crusades and discloses some of the facts and realities of that time. It does include demons and magic, too, so it is an excellent fantasy book, too. I really enjoyed the book and would look forward to reading more by this author.
The only editorial note is that I sometimes got confused as to who was telling the story as it switched back and forth between two first person storytellers. Other than that---thumbs up!!!
I loved this book. It is an excellent teen or adult read. It takes place in the times of the first crusades and discloses some of the facts and realities of that time. It does include demons and magic, too, so it is an excellent fantasy book, too. I really enjoyed the book and would look forward to reading more by this author.
The only editorial note is that I sometimes got confused as to who was telling the story as it switched back and forth between two first person storytellers. Other than that---thumbs up!!!
May 20, 2017
The premise of this teen historical-fiction is very interesting. Set during the Crusades, the two main characters can see demons and end up learning about a plot involving the demons that they need to stop. I enjoyed reading about the interesting evil characters in this book, both demon and human. However, in order for me to really enjoy a book I need to be surprised by something. I felt like I knew what was going to happen as soon as I started reading this. Thanks to NetGalley and Text Publishing for the ARC.
September 27, 2017
First things first: I received this book through NetGalley.
I ave such a lov/hate relationship with this book, it's not even funny. The cover was the thing that made me give this book a second look, cause it's gorgeous. The story sounded super interesting. It just didn't work for me at all.
Summary: Tuscany, 1096 AD. Luca, young heir to the title of Conte de Falconi, sees demons. Since no one else can see them, Luca must keep quiet about what he sees, or risk another exorcism by the nefarious priest Ramberti.
Luca also has dreams—dreams that sometimes predict the future. Night after night Luca sees his father murdered, and vows to stop it coming true. Even if he has to go against his father's wishes and follow him on the great pilgrimage to capture the Holy Lands.
Far away in Cappadocia, Suzan has dreams too. Consigned with her mute mother to a life in an underground convent, she has a vision of a brown-haired boy riding through the desert. A boy with an ancient book that holds some inscrutable power. A boy who will take her on an adventure that will lead to places beyond both their understanding.
Together, Luca and Suzan will realise their true quest: to defeat the forces of man and demon that wish to destroy the world.
I had the hardest time getting into this book, it wasn't the writing. It was the character. Luca. I just didn't care about him at all. Because of that, I only got into the story as soon as Suzan showed up. We get POV's from the both of them. As soon as the two of them met and the journey was told from the two of them, this is when things started to get really interesting for me. I still didn't care for Luca, tho. I'm so sorry. It hurts my soul to actually write it.
The world itself was super interesting. To have these historical events combined with the magical world of demons. But it kinda fell flat for me. Towards the end of the book, I just got bored (even though lots of things happened), I just didn't care enough about it anymore and had the hardest time picking this book up to read a few pages. Giving this a three star raiting, cause there were some parts that I really enjoyed and that I loved reading. Mostly when it came to Suzan. And later Serafina. Loved these two.
I ave such a lov/hate relationship with this book, it's not even funny. The cover was the thing that made me give this book a second look, cause it's gorgeous. The story sounded super interesting. It just didn't work for me at all.
Summary: Tuscany, 1096 AD. Luca, young heir to the title of Conte de Falconi, sees demons. Since no one else can see them, Luca must keep quiet about what he sees, or risk another exorcism by the nefarious priest Ramberti.
Luca also has dreams—dreams that sometimes predict the future. Night after night Luca sees his father murdered, and vows to stop it coming true. Even if he has to go against his father's wishes and follow him on the great pilgrimage to capture the Holy Lands.
Far away in Cappadocia, Suzan has dreams too. Consigned with her mute mother to a life in an underground convent, she has a vision of a brown-haired boy riding through the desert. A boy with an ancient book that holds some inscrutable power. A boy who will take her on an adventure that will lead to places beyond both their understanding.
Together, Luca and Suzan will realise their true quest: to defeat the forces of man and demon that wish to destroy the world.
I had the hardest time getting into this book, it wasn't the writing. It was the character. Luca. I just didn't care about him at all. Because of that, I only got into the story as soon as Suzan showed up. We get POV's from the both of them. As soon as the two of them met and the journey was told from the two of them, this is when things started to get really interesting for me. I still didn't care for Luca, tho. I'm so sorry. It hurts my soul to actually write it.
The world itself was super interesting. To have these historical events combined with the magical world of demons. But it kinda fell flat for me. Towards the end of the book, I just got bored (even though lots of things happened), I just didn't care enough about it anymore and had the hardest time picking this book up to read a few pages. Giving this a three star raiting, cause there were some parts that I really enjoyed and that I loved reading. Mostly when it came to Suzan. And later Serafina. Loved these two.
October 23, 2016
Great fantasy young adult novel about Luca, a knight in training, Suzan, who is escaping danger, the crusade and demons. This is a love story, history lesson, and rolicking adventure book all rolled into one. Loved this book and can't wait to read the sequel.
December 6, 2017
It is so unusual to find YA written about the Crusades. I actually can’t think of any I have read in the past so “Book of Whispers” was a particularly intriguing book. I was fascinated and horrified by this account, some of which is based on historical documents and actual events. What takes this historical fiction into the realm of fantasy is the inclusion of demons. These invisible demons were mostly attached to objects and secretly goaded people to do evil. In real life I think people are capable of evil all on their own but I can see that blaming human actions on an outside influence would be somewhat comforting. Despite the subject matter I don’t feel that this book was particularly religious in tone. It didn’t take sides in the Christian versus Muslim conflict but the Crusaders are the ones we follow into the battles and the Saracens are the ones being invaded so they are definitely more sympathetic than the invaders. The story showed the absolute brutality of the Crusaders and several times the main character Luca questions the morality of their invasion and if they are fighting for good or if they are murdering innocent families for their own gain.
This review is a really difficult one for me because I’m torn. While I was intrigued by the setting and the time period I felt the plot was too slow at times. There were parts that were very exciting but a lot was pretty boring. The story could have been a lot tighter and more compelling but instead it fell flat. I also felt like the magical element was a little too convenient. Suzan and Luca would find just the right item at the right time or were given the exact information or warning they needed by the book and this was used to advance the plot a few too many times. It felt like a bit of a cop out. I think my problem is that I am more of a historical fiction reader and less of a fan of fantasy so for me the book would have been better if it left out the demons and magic completely. I’m sure a lot of readers would feel the opposite and be charmed by the supernatural elements but it just isn’t my thing. I also had a few quibbles with problematic details of the novel like how to mount a horse with two riders and the use of the term “Levant.” The horse mounting made me laugh because as described Luca would have been unable to mount without kicking his passenger in the head! The Levant issue actually really annoyed me because it was used repeatedly in an inappropriate time period and geographical area. I should admit that I’m a Near Eastern archaeologist so this is likely an issue only I care about and I imagine few other readers would even notice but it really got my goat!
The most important thing I have taken away from this book is what I believe is the main message of tolerance and peace. It was pretty shocking to witness the atrocities that the Crusaders inflicted on the Saracens in the name of religion. The Christian Crusaders completely depersonalized the Muslim Saracens so they could slaughter them and invade their cities without guilt and perpetuate horrific violence on men, women and children. This feels like an especially relevant lesson for today’s world. Although there are no literal demons (as far as I know) prodding world leaders to make hateful, destructive decisions I think the Crusades as depicted in this story are a good example of where dehumanizing other religions or groups of people can lead. Let us learn from history and not repeat it.
Thank you to Text Publishing Company for providing an Electronic Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley for review.
This review is a really difficult one for me because I’m torn. While I was intrigued by the setting and the time period I felt the plot was too slow at times. There were parts that were very exciting but a lot was pretty boring. The story could have been a lot tighter and more compelling but instead it fell flat. I also felt like the magical element was a little too convenient. Suzan and Luca would find just the right item at the right time or were given the exact information or warning they needed by the book and this was used to advance the plot a few too many times. It felt like a bit of a cop out. I think my problem is that I am more of a historical fiction reader and less of a fan of fantasy so for me the book would have been better if it left out the demons and magic completely. I’m sure a lot of readers would feel the opposite and be charmed by the supernatural elements but it just isn’t my thing. I also had a few quibbles with problematic details of the novel like how to mount a horse with two riders and the use of the term “Levant.” The horse mounting made me laugh because as described Luca would have been unable to mount without kicking his passenger in the head! The Levant issue actually really annoyed me because it was used repeatedly in an inappropriate time period and geographical area. I should admit that I’m a Near Eastern archaeologist so this is likely an issue only I care about and I imagine few other readers would even notice but it really got my goat!
The most important thing I have taken away from this book is what I believe is the main message of tolerance and peace. It was pretty shocking to witness the atrocities that the Crusaders inflicted on the Saracens in the name of religion. The Christian Crusaders completely depersonalized the Muslim Saracens so they could slaughter them and invade their cities without guilt and perpetuate horrific violence on men, women and children. This feels like an especially relevant lesson for today’s world. Although there are no literal demons (as far as I know) prodding world leaders to make hateful, destructive decisions I think the Crusades as depicted in this story are a good example of where dehumanizing other religions or groups of people can lead. Let us learn from history and not repeat it.
Thank you to Text Publishing Company for providing an Electronic Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley for review.
June 9, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to like this book. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and the Crusades are a time period that isn't often covered, especially in YA novels. The promise of some supernatural elements, had me interested to begin. Unfortunately, I struggled a lot with this book, and when I reached about the 2/3 point, started skimming. To me the main characters seemed very juvenile. Luca is supposed to be in his late teens to early twenties throughout the course of the book, but his voice reads more like a 14 year old. Suzan, the other main character, is around the same age as Luca, but I honestly thought she was about 12 until the book made it clear that she was Luca's age. Had it not been for the levels of violence (and there is a lot of violence, this is the Crusades after all) I would have thought this book was aimed at younger teens rather than older.
The pacing of this book also seemed off. At some points it dragged on, and at other times huge events would happen and wrap up in the span of a few sentences.
The story of the book is what is promised--Crusades+demons, however, I felt that the demons played a much larger part to the story than I was expecting, and it was more of a supernatural book set during the Crusades than a historical fiction with supernatural elements. If you're really interested in the Crusades, you may want to give this book a try, but know that much of the story is focused on a fight between the main characters and the demons, and not the human battles of the Crusades.
I wanted to like this book. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, and the Crusades are a time period that isn't often covered, especially in YA novels. The promise of some supernatural elements, had me interested to begin. Unfortunately, I struggled a lot with this book, and when I reached about the 2/3 point, started skimming. To me the main characters seemed very juvenile. Luca is supposed to be in his late teens to early twenties throughout the course of the book, but his voice reads more like a 14 year old. Suzan, the other main character, is around the same age as Luca, but I honestly thought she was about 12 until the book made it clear that she was Luca's age. Had it not been for the levels of violence (and there is a lot of violence, this is the Crusades after all) I would have thought this book was aimed at younger teens rather than older.
The pacing of this book also seemed off. At some points it dragged on, and at other times huge events would happen and wrap up in the span of a few sentences.
The story of the book is what is promised--Crusades+demons, however, I felt that the demons played a much larger part to the story than I was expecting, and it was more of a supernatural book set during the Crusades than a historical fiction with supernatural elements. If you're really interested in the Crusades, you may want to give this book a try, but know that much of the story is focused on a fight between the main characters and the demons, and not the human battles of the Crusades.
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