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Storming
In the high-flying, heady world of 1920s aviation, brash pilot Robert “Hitch” Hitchcock’s life does a barrel roll when a young woman in an old-fashioned ball gown falls from the clouds smack in front of his biplane. As fearless as she is peculiar, Jael immediately proves she’s game for just about anything, including wing-walking in his struggling airshow. In return for her help, she demands a ride back home . . . to the sky.
Hitch thinks she’s nuts—until he steers his plane into the midst of a bizarre storm and nearly crashes into a strange airship like none he’s ever run afoul of, an airship with the power to control the weather. Caught between a corrupt sheriff and dangerous new enemies from above, Hitch must take his last chance to gain forgiveness from his estranged family, deliver Jael safely home before she flies off with his freewheeling heart, and save his Nebraska hometown from storm-wielding sky pirates.
Cocky, funny, and full of heart, Storming is a jaunty historical/dieselpunk mash-up that combines rip-roaring adventure and small-town charm with the thrill of futuristic possibilities.
Hitch thinks she’s nuts—until he steers his plane into the midst of a bizarre storm and nearly crashes into a strange airship like none he’s ever run afoul of, an airship with the power to control the weather. Caught between a corrupt sheriff and dangerous new enemies from above, Hitch must take his last chance to gain forgiveness from his estranged family, deliver Jael safely home before she flies off with his freewheeling heart, and save his Nebraska hometown from storm-wielding sky pirates.
Cocky, funny, and full of heart, Storming is a jaunty historical/dieselpunk mash-up that combines rip-roaring adventure and small-town charm with the thrill of futuristic possibilities.
454 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2015
59 people are currently reading
1625 people want to read
About the author
K.M. Weiland
29 books2,527 followersK.M. Weiland is the award-winning and internationally published author of acclaimed writing guides such as Structuring Your Novel, Creating Character Arcs, and Writing Archetypal Character Arcs. She writes historical and speculative fiction and mentors authors on her award-winning website Helping Writers Become Authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
January 12, 2018
Wowzers, wowzers, wowzers! This was really good. I loved the characters--complicated, realistic Hitch and stubborn, sweet Jael were an awesome flying duo. (I love how she scared the crazy barnstormer out of his wits every time they went up by out-crazy-ing him.) ;) I couldn't help liking Griff in spite of myself, and Walter was sweet. (And his big moment: unexpected!) Those antagonists made me hate them thoroughly. Don't ask me to pick my least favorite.
Oh, and the Berringers made me laugh! Good job , boys. They, and maybe some of Jael's kicking, were responsible for the comic relief department which was good because it's a pretty action packed story (except when it slows down enough to make you cry. Grrr.). That ending really made it a five-star book, but it's good all the way through! ;)
I would not recommend this book for younger readers because of intense action (including ), some slight romance, and .
Best quote: “I will tell you in car.” She gestured to J.W.’s jalopy. “Should I drive?” “No, you should not drive.”
Altogether, I found this to be a great adventure perfect for older reader's who like a little dieselpunk. ;) (And did I mention, I love Jael's accent?!!)
Oh, and the Berringers made me laugh! Good job , boys. They, and maybe some of Jael's kicking, were responsible for the comic relief department which was good because it's a pretty action packed story (except when it slows down enough to make you cry. Grrr.). That ending really made it a five-star book, but it's good all the way through! ;)
I would not recommend this book for younger readers because of intense action (including ), some slight romance, and .
Best quote: “I will tell you in car.” She gestured to J.W.’s jalopy. “Should I drive?” “No, you should not drive.”
Altogether, I found this to be a great adventure perfect for older reader's who like a little dieselpunk. ;) (And did I mention, I love Jael's accent?!!)
February 13, 2017
Quite frankly, one of the best books I've read in a very very long time! Just the right amount of every ingredient that should be in a story, well-developed characters that are diverse and endearing (and a few that are absolutely despicable!), and a plot that never stops, and never disappoints. I can't think of anything to say that will fully convey how excited I am about this one! Go buy your copy asap, and then hop in the front cockpit and buckle up for the flight of your life!
Well done, Weiland.
Well done, Weiland.
December 1, 2016
A roller coaster. That's what this book was. A fascinating, exhilarating, mind-numbing roller coaster. I think I might have had heart failure a couple times in the story.
I'm really loving this author's style and way of writing. Her characters are fabulous, her plot was amazing and original, and the themes and lessons taught are so well written.
I have a couple more books by her to read and I can't wait to begin!! Highly recommend this book to all those who love action books with good lessons and character growth. I should warn you that there is some romance in it (like you would expect after seeing the cover...) but it's very clean and wholesome. Nothing too ridiculous I promise. ;)
So what are you waiting for!! Go read it!! :)
I'm really loving this author's style and way of writing. Her characters are fabulous, her plot was amazing and original, and the themes and lessons taught are so well written.
I have a couple more books by her to read and I can't wait to begin!! Highly recommend this book to all those who love action books with good lessons and character growth. I should warn you that there is some romance in it (like you would expect after seeing the cover...) but it's very clean and wholesome. Nothing too ridiculous I promise. ;)
So what are you waiting for!! Go read it!! :)
January 22, 2018
Review to come! But basically Walter was the sweetest thing ever <3
November 14, 2022
*assumes best Morticia Addams voice*
You have gone too far.
You have married whiny entitlement with a poorly executed attempt at Backstory (™) to create an obnoxiously flaccid and derivative protagonist.
You have destroyed any semblance of the excitement with which the setting was so evidently intended to imbue the plot by the painfully protracted tedium of the pacing.
You have taken the manic pixie dreamgirl trope, slapped some engine grease and vaguely troubling exoticism undertones onto it, and decided that that should constitute a sufficiently compelling love interest for the aforementioned o. f. & d. protagonist.
All that, I can forgive.
But, K.M. – callously and relentlessly belittling the dead wife who not only meets almost every criterion for undiagnosed chronic illness, but was also abandoned by her oh-so-charming deadbeat husband so that he could run off and fulfill all his boring flyboy fantasies?
You have gone too far.
You have married whiny entitlement with a poorly executed attempt at Backstory (™) to create an obnoxiously flaccid and derivative protagonist.
You have destroyed any semblance of the excitement with which the setting was so evidently intended to imbue the plot by the painfully protracted tedium of the pacing.
You have taken the manic pixie dreamgirl trope, slapped some engine grease and vaguely troubling exoticism undertones onto it, and decided that that should constitute a sufficiently compelling love interest for the aforementioned o. f. & d. protagonist.
All that, I can forgive.
But, K.M. – callously and relentlessly belittling the dead wife who not only meets almost every criterion for undiagnosed chronic illness, but was also abandoned by her oh-so-charming deadbeat husband so that he could run off and fulfill all his boring flyboy fantasies?
January 24, 2017
Ooo-weee. That was one wild ride!
I don't read much steampunk/dieselpunk. (In fact, the only books I can recall off the top of my head that would fit either of those genres is the Matt Cruse trilogy by Kenneth Oppel.) Therefore, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to read Storming, both for its unusual genre, and also the high ratings it garnered from my Goodreads-friends.
Let's start with the characters, shall we? The characters were very well developed. Nearly all of them had complex back stories and motives--even minor characters (the only exceptions being the villains). Jael wasn't *quite* as rounded out as the rest, but part of that was to keep the foreigner feel, so I won't take off any points. Weiland's strong suit is definitely in writing people, because she nailed every last one in this book.
World-building: I was not expecting much of this, since #1, it is set in the real world, and #2, the setting chosen isn't an exciting or exotic locale. However, Weiland brought Scottsbluff to life. I was totally amazed at how she used every bit of writing--dialogue, description, even characters' thoughts--to flesh out this small, Nebraskan town. The writing style never lapsed once from keeping in character with the time period and locale. It was incredible how real and life-like it seemed! I felt like it was an actual place I could visit to see the places where the story played out. And the whimsical illustrations scattered in-between chapters were just the right touch.
The plot: I did have a few quibbles with this. The plot picked up at first, and then dragged a bit in the middle, before racing towards the finish. Instead of edge of your seat action every single minute, it was more of teasing out the plot, so that I wanted more, more, MORE. Some readers might really enjoy this--I, however, was slightly frustrated by it. I feel like if the pace could have been increased just a bit in the middle, and I would enjoyed it even more. I debated whether or not to take off points for this, and finally settled on deducting a star, because it just didn't keep me gripped.
Conclusion: Storming was an excellent read. If you are into major character-development, and love that homey, country feel with just a touch of sci-fi, than this book is perfect for you. Readers who prefer edge-of-their-seat-suspense in their books might be a bit disappointed.
Rating: 4 stars
Recommended: 12 and up
Content guide (may contain minor spoilers):
Language: 1/10 ("durn it" and similar phrases used)
Violence: 7/10 (violent death of a character, a bit gruesome. characters incurs serious wounds. fist-fights and beatings. one disturbing scene in which a 'good' main character unapologetically tries to kill a villain by beating him to death. beating people up or killing them if they're villains is considered acceptable.)
Sexual Content: 1/10 (one character has a "love 'em and leave 'em" type of mindset, a few light kisses)
*Many thanks to the author for providing a copy to review!*
For more reviews, see gabriellenblog.wordpress.com and fullofbooks.com
I don't read much steampunk/dieselpunk. (In fact, the only books I can recall off the top of my head that would fit either of those genres is the Matt Cruse trilogy by Kenneth Oppel.) Therefore, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to read Storming, both for its unusual genre, and also the high ratings it garnered from my Goodreads-friends.
Let's start with the characters, shall we? The characters were very well developed. Nearly all of them had complex back stories and motives--even minor characters (the only exceptions being the villains). Jael wasn't *quite* as rounded out as the rest, but part of that was to keep the foreigner feel, so I won't take off any points. Weiland's strong suit is definitely in writing people, because she nailed every last one in this book.
World-building: I was not expecting much of this, since #1, it is set in the real world, and #2, the setting chosen isn't an exciting or exotic locale. However, Weiland brought Scottsbluff to life. I was totally amazed at how she used every bit of writing--dialogue, description, even characters' thoughts--to flesh out this small, Nebraskan town. The writing style never lapsed once from keeping in character with the time period and locale. It was incredible how real and life-like it seemed! I felt like it was an actual place I could visit to see the places where the story played out. And the whimsical illustrations scattered in-between chapters were just the right touch.
The plot: I did have a few quibbles with this. The plot picked up at first, and then dragged a bit in the middle, before racing towards the finish. Instead of edge of your seat action every single minute, it was more of teasing out the plot, so that I wanted more, more, MORE. Some readers might really enjoy this--I, however, was slightly frustrated by it. I feel like if the pace could have been increased just a bit in the middle, and I would enjoyed it even more. I debated whether or not to take off points for this, and finally settled on deducting a star, because it just didn't keep me gripped.
Conclusion: Storming was an excellent read. If you are into major character-development, and love that homey, country feel with just a touch of sci-fi, than this book is perfect for you. Readers who prefer edge-of-their-seat-suspense in their books might be a bit disappointed.
Rating: 4 stars
Recommended: 12 and up
Content guide (may contain minor spoilers):
Language: 1/10 ("durn it" and similar phrases used)
Violence: 7/10 (violent death of a character, a bit gruesome. characters incurs serious wounds. fist-fights and beatings. one disturbing scene in which a 'good' main character unapologetically tries to kill a villain by beating him to death. beating people up or killing them if they're villains is considered acceptable.)
Sexual Content: 1/10 (one character has a "love 'em and leave 'em" type of mindset, a few light kisses)
*Many thanks to the author for providing a copy to review!*
For more reviews, see gabriellenblog.wordpress.com and fullofbooks.com
December 24, 2015
I really loved this book! It's got plenty of action and wonderful characters. I love Hitch and Jael and the relationship that they develop. It reminded me of The Fifth Element, which is not a bad thing at all.
I just wish we could have explored the airship a little more.
The plot was amazing and moved forward pretty steadily. It kept me reading until late in the night, which was probably not the best since I was in the middle of finals. :P
I highly recommend this book, especially if you like historical adventure and bits of steampunk.
I just wish we could have explored the airship a little more.
The plot was amazing and moved forward pretty steadily. It kept me reading until late in the night, which was probably not the best since I was in the middle of finals. :P
I highly recommend this book, especially if you like historical adventure and bits of steampunk.
Read
May 4, 2022I read this book 5 or 6 years ago, and I've completely forgotten most of the story. The only thing I remember is the male protagonist kissing the love interest without consent and trying to pass it off as a joke... so yeah. :-P
December 20, 2015
KM Weiland's eagerly awaited STORMING is in genre quite unlike both her previous full-length novels - one of them a historical romance set during the Third Crusade and the other a portal fantasy adventure. This time she heads home to her own state of Nebraska in the 1920s and mixes a charming yet irresponsible flying-ace, a mysterious gamine with cutely mangled English, and a giant airship that controls the weather into an eminently entertaining story of biplanes, adventure, and redemption.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I should have really loved it. All the trademark KM Weiland qualities are in evidence: vivid characterisation, craftsmanlike plotting, unabashed adventure, and wonderful themes informed but not intruded upon by her Christian faith. In addition, Weiland's development as an author is evident even from her previous novel, DREAMLANDER. Her characters have that bit much more depth (even the airheaded Lilla is so very, very, very much better than the similar character in DREAMLANDER), her plot is more believable, the writing style has gone up another notch, the setting is vividly evoked.
So I should have loved it. Yet somehow, STORMING had a huge amount of trouble getting me to give a hoot, and I have no clue why. I have nitpicks, of course. In some ways, this book felt like two different genres sliced down the middle and glued uncertainly together. One of them was a quiet, character-driven historical drama, and the other was a crazy, pulpy tale of fist-fights, airships, and machines that control the weather, presided over by a villain named Zlo. The fantasy/sci-fi/dieselpunk elements kept getting sidelined so the characters could meditate on their feelings. Hitch and Walter's backstory was given painstaking and even redundant detail (I felt the book could easily have been trimmed by up to a quarter) - but Jael and Schturming got hardly any detail.
Speculative fiction is all about asking "what if?"; making extrapolations from a few starting assumptions. If alien life did exist on other planets, and if medieval cosmology were true, then how would the Green Lady of Perelandra react to a temptation similar to Eve's? If there was a secret airship that was capable of controlling the weather, what effect would that have on the course of history/the life of a charmingly roguish barnstormer/anything, really? Serious science-fiction or even fantasy speculation was missing from STORMING and I felt those elements only existed as set-dressing. For example, there are approximately 130 people living on Schturming, but we never get a close look at any of them except Jael and Zlo, who fundamentally act as Plot Catalyst and Villain respectively. We don't find out how in such a small and presumably inbred community anyone could possibly be considered an outcast. We don't find out how the weather machine is supposed to work, and at the end All the dieselpunk elements could have been removed from the story, and it would have been a little more quiet, a lot less engaging...but substantially the same story.
Genre problems aside, KM Weiland deserves plenty of credit for this book, and I feel dimly certain that my lacklustre response says more about my TINY, SHRIVELLED HEART than about her skill. For all its more obvious flaws, DREAMLANDER was a much better speculative-fiction-genre read. I have a hunch STORMING will appeal to fans of character-driven historical fiction above fans of sci-fi adventure, and the beauty of the independent publishing route is that books like this that don't fit neatly into mass-market categories will get their moment to shine. But, personally, it wasn't my cup of tea.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I should have really loved it. All the trademark KM Weiland qualities are in evidence: vivid characterisation, craftsmanlike plotting, unabashed adventure, and wonderful themes informed but not intruded upon by her Christian faith. In addition, Weiland's development as an author is evident even from her previous novel, DREAMLANDER. Her characters have that bit much more depth (even the airheaded Lilla is so very, very, very much better than the similar character in DREAMLANDER), her plot is more believable, the writing style has gone up another notch, the setting is vividly evoked.
So I should have loved it. Yet somehow, STORMING had a huge amount of trouble getting me to give a hoot, and I have no clue why. I have nitpicks, of course. In some ways, this book felt like two different genres sliced down the middle and glued uncertainly together. One of them was a quiet, character-driven historical drama, and the other was a crazy, pulpy tale of fist-fights, airships, and machines that control the weather, presided over by a villain named Zlo. The fantasy/sci-fi/dieselpunk elements kept getting sidelined so the characters could meditate on their feelings. Hitch and Walter's backstory was given painstaking and even redundant detail (I felt the book could easily have been trimmed by up to a quarter) - but Jael and Schturming got hardly any detail.
Speculative fiction is all about asking "what if?"; making extrapolations from a few starting assumptions. If alien life did exist on other planets, and if medieval cosmology were true, then how would the Green Lady of Perelandra react to a temptation similar to Eve's? If there was a secret airship that was capable of controlling the weather, what effect would that have on the course of history/the life of a charmingly roguish barnstormer/anything, really? Serious science-fiction or even fantasy speculation was missing from STORMING and I felt those elements only existed as set-dressing. For example, there are approximately 130 people living on Schturming, but we never get a close look at any of them except Jael and Zlo, who fundamentally act as Plot Catalyst and Villain respectively. We don't find out how in such a small and presumably inbred community anyone could possibly be considered an outcast. We don't find out how the weather machine is supposed to work, and at the end All the dieselpunk elements could have been removed from the story, and it would have been a little more quiet, a lot less engaging...but substantially the same story.
Genre problems aside, KM Weiland deserves plenty of credit for this book, and I feel dimly certain that my lacklustre response says more about my TINY, SHRIVELLED HEART than about her skill. For all its more obvious flaws, DREAMLANDER was a much better speculative-fiction-genre read. I have a hunch STORMING will appeal to fans of character-driven historical fiction above fans of sci-fi adventure, and the beauty of the independent publishing route is that books like this that don't fit neatly into mass-market categories will get their moment to shine. But, personally, it wasn't my cup of tea.
May 22, 2016
THIS BOOK IS AMAZING.
Review to come!
Review to come!
May 5, 2020
cannot praise this book enough. it's incredible. a new favorite for sure. lovable, complex characters - the speculative, dieselpunk element - a historical setting - several villains - gripping plot - all you could want in one lovely lovely standalone adventure. 5/5. glad I bought the book!!
February 2, 2017
So this is the type of fantasy I like. It's believable....wait, is that possible? But really it was. The only things I kind of raised an eyebrow about (fantasy-wise) was the making rain bit and the weird language that was spoken from Storming.
I LOVED the time setting!! Barnstorming, flying cirucus', Jenny planes, wing-walking, the prohibition, etc. Hitch and all the characters were great. Jael was so sweet, even though at first I didn't know what to think of her. Gotta love Matthew and J. W. Then there's Walter who I just wanted to hug and felt a little teary-eyed at the end when he gave Hitch a hug.
The romance was sweet and didn't take over the story. There are two kisses-not very detailed-and the progress of the romance was just right. Not too fast; happened at the right time!
My two main dislikes:
-Hitch thought or said "Lord knew" so many times I was getting a little annoyed. For a man who spoke so much about the Lord knowing, there wasn't a lot of spiritual thread throughout besides mentions of God and praying a couple times. That didn't bother me that much as I wasn't really expecting there to be.
-It got a little too violent toward the end (stabbing, blood, etc.). Hitch's violence toward Zlo was somewhat shocking, although understandable.
Last but not least, I thought I knew exactly how things were working out and then the author threw in a loop! IT. WAS. AMAZING! So yes, I liked this book despite my unsurety. I think all the plane stuff helped and the fact that the "world in the sky" was more believable than I expected it to be.
I LOVED the time setting!! Barnstorming, flying cirucus', Jenny planes, wing-walking, the prohibition, etc. Hitch and all the characters were great. Jael was so sweet, even though at first I didn't know what to think of her. Gotta love Matthew and J. W. Then there's Walter who I just wanted to hug and felt a little teary-eyed at the end when he gave Hitch a hug.
The romance was sweet and didn't take over the story. There are two kisses-not very detailed-and the progress of the romance was just right. Not too fast; happened at the right time!
My two main dislikes:
-Hitch thought or said "Lord knew" so many times I was getting a little annoyed. For a man who spoke so much about the Lord knowing, there wasn't a lot of spiritual thread throughout besides mentions of God and praying a couple times. That didn't bother me that much as I wasn't really expecting there to be.
-It got a little too violent toward the end (stabbing, blood, etc.). Hitch's violence toward Zlo was somewhat shocking, although understandable.
Last but not least, I thought I knew exactly how things were working out and then the author threw in a loop! IT. WAS. AMAZING! So yes, I liked this book despite my unsurety. I think all the plane stuff helped and the fact that the "world in the sky" was more believable than I expected it to be.
September 3, 2019
Well, wow, that was a ride! It wasn't quite exactly what I expected going in...although I was never very clear on what exactly I expected going in. ;) But the setting was amazing (THE AIRPLANES! EEEP!), the plot just plain didn't stop, and the characters wormed their way into my heart and took root there without any kind of permission.
So, since I already mentioned it, can we talk about characters for a minute? More specifically, can we talk about Hitch for a minute? He was absolutely one of my biggest surprises and favorite parts of the whole book, but he didn't really fit into any of my usual favorite molds. He was a loner, more than a little selfish, had obviously done some things that he wasn't proud of, but just as obviously still wasn't over whatever it was that had made him do them. Not the kind of character I usually attach to in the slightest. But somehow my heart took hold of him and refused to let go, even though I was pretty sure he'd break it before he got through with it. On the other hand, Jael, for all her mystery, was so sweet and adorable that I never had any fears for her (at least, for her as a person, not for what was going to happen to her). And all the minor characters were written with such depth and heart that I understood and sympathized with them (well, most of them), even when I didn't like what they were doing at a given time. Such a varied and wonderful cast, and they were able to make me groan, laugh, and cheer just as much as the leads. And then Walter... *clamps mouth shut to prevent spoilers*
Like I already said, I loved the whole airplane angle, and the realistic way it was handled. (Admittedly, I have no idea which parts of all that were real and which were sci-fi, but still.) There was a whole lot of potential for people to attempt the kinds of stunts that can only happen in the movies, but somehow those were avoided while still keeping enough brazen, death-defying antics to keep me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
The only thing I didn't like, and which knocks about a half-star off my rating, was the amount of violence and death. It wasn't graphic, but if you stopped to think about what had happened to certain people, it was a bit brutal. The "war" that ends up playing out with the pirates is about as serious as a real war, with the casualties to prove it. Also, when the good guys are focused on ending things by killing the bad guy...that bothers me a bit, especially when there's no discussion around it. But like I said, that's about the only thing about the story that I didn't like.
4 stars
Content--mentions of deaths, including murders; people stabbed and threatened with guns; mentions of injuries, wounds, and blood; mentions of drinking and drunkenness; ; frequent use of expressions like "durn" and "heck"; a few uses of expressions like "Lord knows" or "good sweet angels", but not in a mocking way
So, since I already mentioned it, can we talk about characters for a minute? More specifically, can we talk about Hitch for a minute? He was absolutely one of my biggest surprises and favorite parts of the whole book, but he didn't really fit into any of my usual favorite molds. He was a loner, more than a little selfish, had obviously done some things that he wasn't proud of, but just as obviously still wasn't over whatever it was that had made him do them. Not the kind of character I usually attach to in the slightest. But somehow my heart took hold of him and refused to let go, even though I was pretty sure he'd break it before he got through with it. On the other hand, Jael, for all her mystery, was so sweet and adorable that I never had any fears for her (at least, for her as a person, not for what was going to happen to her). And all the minor characters were written with such depth and heart that I understood and sympathized with them (well, most of them), even when I didn't like what they were doing at a given time. Such a varied and wonderful cast, and they were able to make me groan, laugh, and cheer just as much as the leads. And then Walter... *clamps mouth shut to prevent spoilers*
Like I already said, I loved the whole airplane angle, and the realistic way it was handled. (Admittedly, I have no idea which parts of all that were real and which were sci-fi, but still.) There was a whole lot of potential for people to attempt the kinds of stunts that can only happen in the movies, but somehow those were avoided while still keeping enough brazen, death-defying antics to keep me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
The only thing I didn't like, and which knocks about a half-star off my rating, was the amount of violence and death. It wasn't graphic, but if you stopped to think about what had happened to certain people, it was a bit brutal. The "war" that ends up playing out with the pirates is about as serious as a real war, with the casualties to prove it. Also, when the good guys are focused on ending things by killing the bad guy...that bothers me a bit, especially when there's no discussion around it. But like I said, that's about the only thing about the story that I didn't like.
4 stars
Content--mentions of deaths, including murders; people stabbed and threatened with guns; mentions of injuries, wounds, and blood; mentions of drinking and drunkenness; ; frequent use of expressions like "durn" and "heck"; a few uses of expressions like "Lord knows" or "good sweet angels", but not in a mocking way
April 4, 2017
I'm just sitting here in a daze because wowwww this book.
The author somehow manages to combine fantastic plot, AMAZING CHARACTERS, poignant themes, great writing style, and high-flying action all in one fell swoop. LIKE SERIOUSLY. It is not often that I find a book with all of these components.
For the sake of my scattering thoughts, I'm just going to compile a list of all the brilliancy that is this book.
Things I Loved:
+ ALL THE CHARACTERS. I know I say this a lot...but characters are basically a make-or-break deal for me. If I don't like the characters, you can be pretty sure my opinion of the book will plummet faster than the Jenny in a thunderstorm (which...actually isn't that fast? #failedmetaphor XD) But Storming was a gold mine in terms of characters. You can tell K.M. Weiland put a ton of work into crafting realistic characters with realistic motivations. Props to her for that because it's not an easy task. (And yes, I made an airplane pun, go me.)
I have to say, Hitch was probably my favorite character. I wasn't expecting that, honestly, but he just stole my heart right away. I really felt for him, and watching his character arc was just the bestttt <3
Of course, I loved Jael and Walter, too. I mean, who wouldn't? Jael is smart and feisty and sweet--basically a female character that all the YA world can take notes on. And Walter is just a darling who makes my heart melt. I loved the way the author actually shaped his personality throughout the book, instead of just leaving him as a typical "cute kid" character tacked on for fun.
+ The themes. OH MY GOODNESS. The themes almost overtake the characters in terms of brilliance. Like gosh...it's been a long time since I've felt this moved by a book's themes. I teared up more than once. It's just so perfect the way the themes are woven in throughout the story. <3
+ The setting. It was set in Nebraska during the 1920s, a setting I would I've never seen before and probably would have never thought of, to be frank. I loved the simplicity of the town, contrasted with the airshow and the mysterious Schturming flying around.
+ The writing style. It's amazing, okay? End of story.
Things I Didn't Like:
+ Not much to see here. I did know the big plot twist before it happened, but that was probably because I'm getting much better at guessing plot twists. Also, as much as I loved the airshow, all the flying around got a teensy bit boring. Not enough to bother me that much, though, because most of the book was action-packed.
In short? THIS IS A MASTERPIECE AND EVERYONE MUST READ IT.
4.5 stars!
The author somehow manages to combine fantastic plot, AMAZING CHARACTERS, poignant themes, great writing style, and high-flying action all in one fell swoop. LIKE SERIOUSLY. It is not often that I find a book with all of these components.
For the sake of my scattering thoughts, I'm just going to compile a list of all the brilliancy that is this book.
Things I Loved:
+ ALL THE CHARACTERS. I know I say this a lot...but characters are basically a make-or-break deal for me. If I don't like the characters, you can be pretty sure my opinion of the book will plummet faster than the Jenny in a thunderstorm (which...actually isn't that fast? #failedmetaphor XD) But Storming was a gold mine in terms of characters. You can tell K.M. Weiland put a ton of work into crafting realistic characters with realistic motivations. Props to her for that because it's not an easy task. (And yes, I made an airplane pun, go me.)
I have to say, Hitch was probably my favorite character. I wasn't expecting that, honestly, but he just stole my heart right away. I really felt for him, and watching his character arc was just the bestttt <3
Of course, I loved Jael and Walter, too. I mean, who wouldn't? Jael is smart and feisty and sweet--basically a female character that all the YA world can take notes on. And Walter is just a darling who makes my heart melt. I loved the way the author actually shaped his personality throughout the book, instead of just leaving him as a typical "cute kid" character tacked on for fun.
+ The themes. OH MY GOODNESS. The themes almost overtake the characters in terms of brilliance. Like gosh...it's been a long time since I've felt this moved by a book's themes. I teared up more than once. It's just so perfect the way the themes are woven in throughout the story. <3
+ The setting. It was set in Nebraska during the 1920s, a setting I would I've never seen before and probably would have never thought of, to be frank. I loved the simplicity of the town, contrasted with the airshow and the mysterious Schturming flying around.
+ The writing style. It's amazing, okay? End of story.
Things I Didn't Like:
+ Not much to see here. I did know the big plot twist before it happened, but that was probably because I'm getting much better at guessing plot twists. Also, as much as I loved the airshow, all the flying around got a teensy bit boring. Not enough to bother me that much, though, because most of the book was action-packed.
In short? THIS IS A MASTERPIECE AND EVERYONE MUST READ IT.
4.5 stars!
March 9, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I always enjoy K.M. Weiland's books, I love her themes, the way her characters live and grow. But I have my favorites of her books and this is definitely one of them.
Hitch was not the only reason for that, no really, I'm being serious. 😂 I really enjoyed Hitch. A lot.
He gave me the most grief in journey though. Like the third time he makes a stupid decision in a row I mean, buddy we can do better than this. *sigh* It's ok he learns. And I really did appreciate that things don't come easy for him. He struggles and I love him for it. Also, the spunk. No more needs to be said.
Jael: The girl actually makes me happy. She's so different and unique, I really appreciated her role.
Walter: Always tryna make me cry. This kid was a delight. I'm not crying.
Aurelia: Just wanted to mention her for her uniqueness. Very interesting and I loved the trio that these three made. 😊
Other honorable mentions: Griff (ah the brother struggles), Nan, the Berringer brothers, and Taos (wasn't expecting the dog -so glad he came along).
Schturming and the dawesdometer were interesting concepts and I was always expecting it to be other-worldly (too much fantasy).
While there may have been one or two small inconsistencies, overall and Jael's non-English wasn't distracting and I thought it was very well done even adding some spice and individuality to her voice.
The theme was very neatly interlaced into the story and didn't ever seem distracting or forced to me. It seemed to come out of who Hitch was and that, I think, is appropriate.
Those last few chapters I was thinking to myself "If this was a movie you know you'd probably be crying right now". In other words the ending was great! The tension and passion held through to the end and it was very satisfying.
Hitch was not the only reason for that, no really, I'm being serious. 😂 I really enjoyed Hitch. A lot.
He gave me the most grief in journey though. Like the third time he makes a stupid decision in a row I mean, buddy we can do better than this. *sigh* It's ok he learns. And I really did appreciate that things don't come easy for him. He struggles and I love him for it. Also, the spunk. No more needs to be said.
Jael: The girl actually makes me happy. She's so different and unique, I really appreciated her role.
Walter: Always tryna make me cry. This kid was a delight. I'm not crying.
Aurelia: Just wanted to mention her for her uniqueness. Very interesting and I loved the trio that these three made. 😊
Other honorable mentions: Griff (ah the brother struggles), Nan, the Berringer brothers, and Taos (wasn't expecting the dog -so glad he came along).
Schturming and the dawesdometer were interesting concepts and I was always expecting it to be other-worldly (too much fantasy).
While there may have been one or two small inconsistencies, overall and Jael's non-English wasn't distracting and I thought it was very well done even adding some spice and individuality to her voice.
The theme was very neatly interlaced into the story and didn't ever seem distracting or forced to me. It seemed to come out of who Hitch was and that, I think, is appropriate.
Those last few chapters I was thinking to myself "If this was a movie you know you'd probably be crying right now". In other words the ending was great! The tension and passion held through to the end and it was very satisfying.
December 6, 2016
This book, okay. Just...this book. I approve 10000% There is so much to love (aka, the entire thing), and just ack it's so good. *looks around for the five gajillion star rating*
The characters are the most epic creatures ever. I could probably flail over them all for hours. They have such layered personalities, backstories that just give ringing outline and depth to every word they say. And their emotions. I felt every. single. one. It hurt, but I loved it and it's just such an amazing thing. Everyone of the characters is so real. Like, cliche doesn't even exist here.
I LOVED the writing style so hard. The uncommon words used to discribe small actions, the small actions used to describe emotions, the emotions. Oh man. This book basically tied my feels to the plane wing struts and flew me through a lightning storm. I admit that I was close to crying once or twice just because of alllll the feeeels.
Also stabbing. There was violence, and it was done really well. Not passed off as nothing, and not over done or over described. And it wasn't like some violence in books, it really did need to be there. And all through the scenes when it was happening just so. much. character. development.
It was the sort of book that gave me shivers as I read. And the plot twists. I was so deeply engrossed in the story that I honestly didn't see them coming until they were right there and happening. That, my friends, is epic.
I recommend this to absolutely anyone with good reading tastes. Read it. Now. You know you want to. Trust me on this one. To repeat myself: THIS BOOK, OKAY.
The characters are the most epic creatures ever. I could probably flail over them all for hours. They have such layered personalities, backstories that just give ringing outline and depth to every word they say. And their emotions. I felt every. single. one. It hurt, but I loved it and it's just such an amazing thing. Everyone of the characters is so real. Like, cliche doesn't even exist here.
I LOVED the writing style so hard. The uncommon words used to discribe small actions, the small actions used to describe emotions, the emotions. Oh man. This book basically tied my feels to the plane wing struts and flew me through a lightning storm. I admit that I was close to crying once or twice just because of alllll the feeeels.
Also stabbing. There was violence, and it was done really well. Not passed off as nothing, and not over done or over described. And it wasn't like some violence in books, it really did need to be there. And all through the scenes when it was happening just so. much. character. development.
It was the sort of book that gave me shivers as I read. And the plot twists. I was so deeply engrossed in the story that I honestly didn't see them coming until they were right there and happening. That, my friends, is epic.
I recommend this to absolutely anyone with good reading tastes. Read it. Now. You know you want to. Trust me on this one. To repeat myself: THIS BOOK, OKAY.
December 10, 2015
My first venture into a a dieselpunk novel turned out to be very much worth it. Storming is an action-packed adventure about a biplane pilot with a rocky past at the town he returns to in order to compete in a flying contest. While there, a woman literally falls from the sky--followed by the villain out to kill her and take the necklace she's keeping safe.
I really liked the main character, Hitch, who's tough on the outside but sweet on the inside. The town is filled with other colorful characters as well, including a little boy guaranteed to melt your heart.
Weiland does a great job at bringing the time period to life as well, and working in the fantastical elements related to the weather controlling device. At times, the events push the edge, but that's part of the charm--the book feels like good, old-fashioned adventure movies--and amidst it all, the characters ring true-to-life.
If you've read and enjoyed any of Weiland's other books, you're sure to enjoy this one. And if you haven't read anything else by her, this is a good place to start.
My Website
Find me on Facebook
My YA fantasy series:
book 1
book 2
I really liked the main character, Hitch, who's tough on the outside but sweet on the inside. The town is filled with other colorful characters as well, including a little boy guaranteed to melt your heart.
Weiland does a great job at bringing the time period to life as well, and working in the fantastical elements related to the weather controlling device. At times, the events push the edge, but that's part of the charm--the book feels like good, old-fashioned adventure movies--and amidst it all, the characters ring true-to-life.
If you've read and enjoyed any of Weiland's other books, you're sure to enjoy this one. And if you haven't read anything else by her, this is a good place to start.
My Website
Find me on Facebook
My YA fantasy series:
book 1
book 2
December 8, 2015
True to form, K.M. Weiland delivers a romping good adventure in Storming. I’m not entirely sure when I decided that I simply had to read this novel. I think it might have been the first time I clapped eyes on the back cover copy and saw the words “aviation” and “biplane.” I’ll admit, I’m a bit of a sucker for anything to do with that. And when you add “Diespelpunk” to throw a bit of fantasyish/sci-fi flavor to the mix, well, what could be better?
K.M. Weiland excels at creating wonderfully real characters and weaving fantastic tales that suck you in from page one until you cross the finish line, and Storming is no exception. I found myself white-knuckled more than once, though I honestly should have kept a tally over which was more likely to make me clench my fists, fervently hoping Robert “Hitch” Hitchock would make the right choice (or maybe just clock those frustrating antagonists a good one) or hoping that this time he would be able to safely land poor old Jenny, his biplane. Somehow the odds were always stacked against him.
All in all, Storming is a fantastic, heartwarming, and exciting read that is sure to awaken the latent barnstormer in readers everywhere and make them long to take to the sky and flaunt a daredevil grin in the teeth of the wind. Or at the very least, splurge and sport a bomber jacket! Definitely a must read.
K.M. Weiland excels at creating wonderfully real characters and weaving fantastic tales that suck you in from page one until you cross the finish line, and Storming is no exception. I found myself white-knuckled more than once, though I honestly should have kept a tally over which was more likely to make me clench my fists, fervently hoping Robert “Hitch” Hitchock would make the right choice (or maybe just clock those frustrating antagonists a good one) or hoping that this time he would be able to safely land poor old Jenny, his biplane. Somehow the odds were always stacked against him.
All in all, Storming is a fantastic, heartwarming, and exciting read that is sure to awaken the latent barnstormer in readers everywhere and make them long to take to the sky and flaunt a daredevil grin in the teeth of the wind. Or at the very least, splurge and sport a bomber jacket! Definitely a must read.
January 26, 2016
TAOS:
or
THE AWESOMENESS OF STORMING
With expertly plotted dominos falling from the very first word, K.M. Weiland instantly captures the uniqueness of the world she's about to throw us into at the speed of a biplane charging through the cold wind of the night with a souped up engine and a plucky pilot as bold as black coffee in the outstanding throwback action/adventure novel Storming. Memorably colorful and deeply knit-together characters captain this addictively charming page-turner with dialogue that sounds like an ash bat cracking a home run centerfield and proto-eurpoean diselpunk undertones gild an aesthetic of pure Americana, exotically nostalgic and yet somehow effortlessly resonant, making us feel every punch of action down to the last gasp of a superb climax. K.M. Weiland offers the seamless construction of a flawless thrill ride, cinematic and poignant and in the end just plain old fashioned fun. Grab an orange phosphate, kick back, and watch the pages (and the hours) fly by.
or
THE AWESOMENESS OF STORMING
With expertly plotted dominos falling from the very first word, K.M. Weiland instantly captures the uniqueness of the world she's about to throw us into at the speed of a biplane charging through the cold wind of the night with a souped up engine and a plucky pilot as bold as black coffee in the outstanding throwback action/adventure novel Storming. Memorably colorful and deeply knit-together characters captain this addictively charming page-turner with dialogue that sounds like an ash bat cracking a home run centerfield and proto-eurpoean diselpunk undertones gild an aesthetic of pure Americana, exotically nostalgic and yet somehow effortlessly resonant, making us feel every punch of action down to the last gasp of a superb climax. K.M. Weiland offers the seamless construction of a flawless thrill ride, cinematic and poignant and in the end just plain old fashioned fun. Grab an orange phosphate, kick back, and watch the pages (and the hours) fly by.
Read
February 25, 2021There were some very sweet moments at the end. :)
June 2, 2016
I picked up this book partly because of some enthusiastic reviews I'd read, but mostly because I couldn't resist the vintage aviation element. Biplanes and barnstormers in the 1920s? Yes, please! Storming is also a taste of something a little outside my comfort zone, though, since it's not just historical fiction but partly dieselpunk—which, like the related genre steampunk, I understand involves putting imaginary ahead-of-its-time technology into a historical setting. A bit like Jules Verne after the fact.
Storming finds barnstorming pilot "Hitch" Hitchcock returning to his Nebraska hometown, which he left under troubled circumstances years ago, to compete in an air show. But besides trying to reconcile with his estranged family, keep a step ahead of the corrupt sheriff, and keep his just-about-broke barnstorming act together, Hitch finds himself caught up in an even stranger series of events when a strange girl plummets out of the night sky and parachutes past his plane and right smack into the midst of his own troubles—a girl in an old-fashioned dress who speaks broken English, insists that her home is in the sky, and that she has to find a way of getting back to stop some looming threat. As uncanny events multiply, it becomes evident that something or someone is up there in the clouds posing a threat to the town—and like it or not, Hitch might be the only one who can help stop it.
In many ways I enjoyed reading Storming. It's fun, it's exciting, it kept me reading to find out what was going to happen to the characters next. Jael in particular was an adorable character, both sweet and feisty, her highly individual method of speaking English and her firecracker temper amusing and endearing. I liked Hitch, and Walter, and most of the supporting cast—Griff and the Berringers were some of my favorites. And I loved the all-too-brief air show scenes. As far as the dieselpunk element goes, I'm probably not the person to ask for opinions on how it was handled, since that's not really in my line. It's sure different, I can say that. :)
There were a few things that detracted for me, though. The backstory about Hitch's estrangement from his family and his reasons for leaving town seemed dragged out for much too long, revealed bit by bit in an interminable series of hints (and even then, both the exact nature of Sheriff Campbell's villainy and Hitch's reasons for not simply explaining it to his brother seemed a tad vague). Some of Hitch's soul-searching and decision-making seems a little repetitive. I had a few niggles about the writing, like an occasional sparsity of description—for instance, I never did exactly figure out if Earl was supposed to be young or old or in between; or got a clear idea of the layout of the town.
A slight detachment from reality in some parts didn't quite make sense: wouldn't these bizarre and dramatic incidents be making headlines and drawing attention from outside Scottsbluff? There doesn't seem to be much reference to the rest of the outside world, or even what it would mean to that world if the villains' plans succeeded. And it seems vaguely disturbing that while a number of planes are wrecked and pilots killed during the action scenes, there's practically no attention at all given to the fact of their deaths. One would think this would have more of an emotional impact on Hitch, as a pilot himself.
Still, it was fun, it's action-packed if your taste runs to adventure, and has a highly satisfying ending. It was a perfect way to kick off relaxing summer reading by the pool.
Storming finds barnstorming pilot "Hitch" Hitchcock returning to his Nebraska hometown, which he left under troubled circumstances years ago, to compete in an air show. But besides trying to reconcile with his estranged family, keep a step ahead of the corrupt sheriff, and keep his just-about-broke barnstorming act together, Hitch finds himself caught up in an even stranger series of events when a strange girl plummets out of the night sky and parachutes past his plane and right smack into the midst of his own troubles—a girl in an old-fashioned dress who speaks broken English, insists that her home is in the sky, and that she has to find a way of getting back to stop some looming threat. As uncanny events multiply, it becomes evident that something or someone is up there in the clouds posing a threat to the town—and like it or not, Hitch might be the only one who can help stop it.
In many ways I enjoyed reading Storming. It's fun, it's exciting, it kept me reading to find out what was going to happen to the characters next. Jael in particular was an adorable character, both sweet and feisty, her highly individual method of speaking English and her firecracker temper amusing and endearing. I liked Hitch, and Walter, and most of the supporting cast—Griff and the Berringers were some of my favorites. And I loved the all-too-brief air show scenes. As far as the dieselpunk element goes, I'm probably not the person to ask for opinions on how it was handled, since that's not really in my line. It's sure different, I can say that. :)
There were a few things that detracted for me, though. The backstory about Hitch's estrangement from his family and his reasons for leaving town seemed dragged out for much too long, revealed bit by bit in an interminable series of hints (and even then, both the exact nature of Sheriff Campbell's villainy and Hitch's reasons for not simply explaining it to his brother seemed a tad vague). Some of Hitch's soul-searching and decision-making seems a little repetitive. I had a few niggles about the writing, like an occasional sparsity of description—for instance, I never did exactly figure out if Earl was supposed to be young or old or in between; or got a clear idea of the layout of the town.
A slight detachment from reality in some parts didn't quite make sense: wouldn't these bizarre and dramatic incidents be making headlines and drawing attention from outside Scottsbluff? There doesn't seem to be much reference to the rest of the outside world, or even what it would mean to that world if the villains' plans succeeded. And it seems vaguely disturbing that while a number of planes are wrecked and pilots killed during the action scenes, there's practically no attention at all given to the fact of their deaths. One would think this would have more of an emotional impact on Hitch, as a pilot himself.
Still, it was fun, it's action-packed if your taste runs to adventure, and has a highly satisfying ending. It was a perfect way to kick off relaxing summer reading by the pool.
December 4, 2015
Hitch is an out-of-money pilot, putting on air shows, trying to make ends meet and get a place in a famous air-circus. Unfortunately, this quest has brought him back to his home-town, where many people, his closest family among them, are not likely to be happy to see him. If that wasn't enough, strange people are falling out of the sky. They have their own language and culture, and refer to the townspeople as "groundsmen". Where do they come from and what danger do they present?
Storming by K.M. Weiland mixes speculative deiselpunk concepts with ordinary relatable conflicts such as money struggles and family tensions. I've always found this a very effective combination. The mystery surrounding the sky people is what draws us into the book, but it is often the down-to-earth conflicts that keep us turning the pages. There are a lot of small-town dramas here. At the centre of it all is a corrupt sheriff who has our hero well and truly wrapped around his finger.
Hitch is a likable protagonist. We sympathise with his struggles and feel the offense of his unjust treatment. He is brave and adventurous. He is however, far from perfect. He's made a big mess of things in his personal life and this story puts him into a situation where he can no longer run away from it all. Watching his character arc unfold was a treat.
Jael, the sky woman, draws us right in. She is daring, mysterious and beautiful. It was a lot of fun seeing her grow over the course of the story. In little things, like learning to speak English and communicate better with the other characters, finding her place and fitting in. Her goals in the book are more selfless than most. Her greatest desire is to help her people - whether they deserve it or not - and protect the town from the coming danger that nobody else seems to understand.
There are two main villains in this book - one connected with the town and the other connected with the sky people. If Hitch and Jael are going to come through this, see justice done and protect the ones they love, they will have to defeat both.
I recommend Storming to those who enjoy a rollicking fun adventure with lots of inter-character drama.
Storming by K.M. Weiland mixes speculative deiselpunk concepts with ordinary relatable conflicts such as money struggles and family tensions. I've always found this a very effective combination. The mystery surrounding the sky people is what draws us into the book, but it is often the down-to-earth conflicts that keep us turning the pages. There are a lot of small-town dramas here. At the centre of it all is a corrupt sheriff who has our hero well and truly wrapped around his finger.
Hitch is a likable protagonist. We sympathise with his struggles and feel the offense of his unjust treatment. He is brave and adventurous. He is however, far from perfect. He's made a big mess of things in his personal life and this story puts him into a situation where he can no longer run away from it all. Watching his character arc unfold was a treat.
Jael, the sky woman, draws us right in. She is daring, mysterious and beautiful. It was a lot of fun seeing her grow over the course of the story. In little things, like learning to speak English and communicate better with the other characters, finding her place and fitting in. Her goals in the book are more selfless than most. Her greatest desire is to help her people - whether they deserve it or not - and protect the town from the coming danger that nobody else seems to understand.
There are two main villains in this book - one connected with the town and the other connected with the sky people. If Hitch and Jael are going to come through this, see justice done and protect the ones they love, they will have to defeat both.
I recommend Storming to those who enjoy a rollicking fun adventure with lots of inter-character drama.
April 23, 2018
I loved it, and this is why you should love it too:
Airplanes. And not just any airplane. A biplane . . . like you can walk out on its wings. #wannatrythat
A weather machine and a weapon that manufacture lightning
Earl . . . He’s my maternal grandpa through and through.
Taos. ‘Cause dogs in general
Walter (and the plot twist associated with him that was totally sobworthy)
Taos and Walter together
And Jael, a woman who is neither feminist nor prissy. She’s brave, spunky, and wonderful.
Basically you can not go wrong buying this book (even if you’re a tightwad like me). The plot is fast-paced; the characters, realistic; the theme, well-developed; and the relationships, deep.
Plus there’s parts that totally flooded me with wabi-sabi (a term you should have in your vocabulary, by the way)
“He dropped to his knees and pulled Walter to him. “He’s just a dog. He doesn’t matter a lick compared to you. You hear me?” Two skinny little arms wriggled up around his neck. “I’m sorry.” He tightened his hold around this boy—this incredible, brave, loyal, determined little boy who was his own flesh and his own bone. His son. He wanted to press him right into himself, until they were bonded, until Walter could never leave him again.”
*cue teardrop*
This book was definitely less violent than Dreamlander (which is a plus), and there was only one part at the end where I felt uncomfortable because Hitch seemed to be extracting revenge from Zlo instead of justice.
Airplanes. And not just any airplane. A biplane . . . like you can walk out on its wings. #wannatrythat
A weather machine and a weapon that manufacture lightning
Earl . . . He’s my maternal grandpa through and through.
Taos. ‘Cause dogs in general
Walter (and the plot twist associated with him that was totally sobworthy)
Taos and Walter together
And Jael, a woman who is neither feminist nor prissy. She’s brave, spunky, and wonderful.
Basically you can not go wrong buying this book (even if you’re a tightwad like me). The plot is fast-paced; the characters, realistic; the theme, well-developed; and the relationships, deep.
Plus there’s parts that totally flooded me with wabi-sabi (a term you should have in your vocabulary, by the way)
“He dropped to his knees and pulled Walter to him. “He’s just a dog. He doesn’t matter a lick compared to you. You hear me?” Two skinny little arms wriggled up around his neck. “I’m sorry.” He tightened his hold around this boy—this incredible, brave, loyal, determined little boy who was his own flesh and his own bone. His son. He wanted to press him right into himself, until they were bonded, until Walter could never leave him again.”
*cue teardrop*
This book was definitely less violent than Dreamlander (which is a plus), and there was only one part at the end where I felt uncomfortable because Hitch seemed to be extracting revenge from Zlo instead of justice.
December 29, 2015
With some twists and turns both in the sky and in the plot, the author amps up the excitement while Storming all the way from start to finish.
I can not imagine the hours of research the author dedicated to making this book as accurately correct as possible. The 1920 time period as well as the intricate workings of a biplane are perfectly showcased on every page. As a reader, I had an exact feel for the place and the people in the most realistic way possible. Then the author throws in a sci-fi, steampunk twist and the reader has no way of knowing what to expect next. Definitely a fun ride to experience!
Weiland is a true author. She writes first and foremost for herself and then secondly for her audience. She writes about what she truly loves and feels passionate towards, and then hopes readers will be just as excited about it too. Thankfully, I think she will find many readers who will enjoy soaring with her on this action-packed adventure.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I can not imagine the hours of research the author dedicated to making this book as accurately correct as possible. The 1920 time period as well as the intricate workings of a biplane are perfectly showcased on every page. As a reader, I had an exact feel for the place and the people in the most realistic way possible. Then the author throws in a sci-fi, steampunk twist and the reader has no way of knowing what to expect next. Definitely a fun ride to experience!
Weiland is a true author. She writes first and foremost for herself and then secondly for her audience. She writes about what she truly loves and feels passionate towards, and then hopes readers will be just as excited about it too. Thankfully, I think she will find many readers who will enjoy soaring with her on this action-packed adventure.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for my honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Want to read
December 6, 2015Can't wait to get a paperback copy of Storming! I loved her Portal Fantasy, Dreamlander, so I'm very much looking forward to reading this one. I also need to get on it and read Behold the Dawn and A Man Called Outlaw.
December 4, 2015
In 1920's Nebraska, Hitch Hitchcock makes his living as a barnstorming pilot – until a woman in a fancy ball gown falls out of the night sky in front of his plane and he gets mixed up with her – and with her enemies.
Hitch doesn't want anyone depending on him, because he's let too many people down in the past. He's back in his hometown for one week only, to compete for a chance to join a flying circus.
His encounter with the mysterious falling woman, Jael, also brings him face to face with family and townsfolk he's hurt before – and with the man who made him run away. When Jael's enemies turn their airship's weaponry against the town, Hitch has to stay and fight when every instinct tells him to run again.
Favourite lines:
A blend of historical and dieselpunk, Storming is filled with action, intrigue, flying (surprise!) and great characters. There's plenty to satisfy the relationship-oriented reader, too: friendship, romance, and long-standing hurt.
This is the second K.M. Weiland novel I've read, and it won't be the last. I love the way she creates characters I can relate to, and drops them into situations beyond their control – where somehow they have to stay and fight, and where losing isn't an option.
K.M. Weiland knows how to raise the stakes, as well as creating characters we care about and want to see win. In addition to Storming, she has written Behold the Dawn (historical), A Man Called Outlaw (western) and Dreamlander (speculative), as well as short fiction and books on writing.
[Review copy provided by the author, but I liked it so much I bought my own copy.]
Hitch doesn't want anyone depending on him, because he's let too many people down in the past. He's back in his hometown for one week only, to compete for a chance to join a flying circus.
His encounter with the mysterious falling woman, Jael, also brings him face to face with family and townsfolk he's hurt before – and with the man who made him run away. When Jael's enemies turn their airship's weaponry against the town, Hitch has to stay and fight when every instinct tells him to run again.
Favourite lines:
Bonney Livingstone could talk a man into picking his own pocket. [Kindle location 1083]
If Earl had thought last night's story was crazy, this one plumb ran away with the farmer's daughter. [Kindle location 1347]
The only good parts of this day were the worse things that could've happened and hadn't. [Kindle location 2165]
A blend of historical and dieselpunk, Storming is filled with action, intrigue, flying (surprise!) and great characters. There's plenty to satisfy the relationship-oriented reader, too: friendship, romance, and long-standing hurt.
This is the second K.M. Weiland novel I've read, and it won't be the last. I love the way she creates characters I can relate to, and drops them into situations beyond their control – where somehow they have to stay and fight, and where losing isn't an option.
K.M. Weiland knows how to raise the stakes, as well as creating characters we care about and want to see win. In addition to Storming, she has written Behold the Dawn (historical), A Man Called Outlaw (western) and Dreamlander (speculative), as well as short fiction and books on writing.
[Review copy provided by the author, but I liked it so much I bought my own copy.]
March 21, 2016
Es un libro muy entretenido, con protagonistas bien desarrollados, además de creíbles, queribles y humanos. También los diferentes niveles de conflicto están muy bien planteados, con una estructura correctamente elaborada y un excelente uso del foreshadowing, haciendo que elementos y personajes secundarios que aparecen en etapas más tempranas de la historia cobren hacia el final una gran importancia. En este aspecto, nada da la sensación de estar demás en la narrativa de esta novela.
Pero siento que me faltó algo para decir que me encantó el libro. Se me hizo largo y un poco repetitivo en cuanto a los sucesos que determinarían el encuentro final, como demasiada preparación para una batalla que tarda mucho en llegar. La otra cosa que quizás me distanció de la obra fue el tema de que no llegaba a visualizar adecuadamente algunas cosas, sobre todo lo referente a la nave de los antagonistas, aún cuando las descripciones me resultaban extensas en ese aspecto. Las ilustraciones ayudan pero podrían haber sido mucho mejores; me resultaron frías, carentes de vida, como de manual de electrodoméstico. Respecto a este punto, quizás valía la pena incluir más y mejores ilustraciones para lograr una ambientación más viva, lo que también habría ayudado a reducir la extensión final de la obra.
Storming fue para mí en realidad una experiencia de 4.5, pero creo que es justo redondear hacia arriba por lo divertida y por sus entrañables personajes n_n
Pero siento que me faltó algo para decir que me encantó el libro. Se me hizo largo y un poco repetitivo en cuanto a los sucesos que determinarían el encuentro final, como demasiada preparación para una batalla que tarda mucho en llegar. La otra cosa que quizás me distanció de la obra fue el tema de que no llegaba a visualizar adecuadamente algunas cosas, sobre todo lo referente a la nave de los antagonistas, aún cuando las descripciones me resultaban extensas en ese aspecto. Las ilustraciones ayudan pero podrían haber sido mucho mejores; me resultaron frías, carentes de vida, como de manual de electrodoméstico. Respecto a este punto, quizás valía la pena incluir más y mejores ilustraciones para lograr una ambientación más viva, lo que también habría ayudado a reducir la extensión final de la obra.
Storming fue para mí en realidad una experiencia de 4.5, pero creo que es justo redondear hacia arriba por lo divertida y por sus entrañables personajes n_n
February 8, 2016
I'm going to go out on a limb here and give a low rating to a book that has otherwise been highly rated....
K. M. Weiland definitely has some talent and it is especially seen in her character development. The characters in Storming are realistic, complex, and pretty lovable.
This book is flawed, though, and the major problem with it is the length - it needed to be cut probably by half. I got to 50% and it still felt like we'd barely taken off. Painfully slow dialog, continuous description of every facial expression and mannerism of the characters, and major themes that are repeated over and over and over all contributed to a very unsatisfying reading experience. This book, in short, is completely overwritten.
Another thing that didn't sit right was the mashup of the small town story with the steampunk elements. For some reason that I can't put a finger on, it felt about as right as aliens showing up on a Mayberry set. It didn't mix well and didn't seem believable. And this is coming from a steampunk fan.
I think that if this book was passed through the hands of a skilled editor, it could be improved quite a bit. But as is, it was painfully dull and I had to make myself read it until I finally gave up about halfway through.
K. M. Weiland definitely has some talent and it is especially seen in her character development. The characters in Storming are realistic, complex, and pretty lovable.
This book is flawed, though, and the major problem with it is the length - it needed to be cut probably by half. I got to 50% and it still felt like we'd barely taken off. Painfully slow dialog, continuous description of every facial expression and mannerism of the characters, and major themes that are repeated over and over and over all contributed to a very unsatisfying reading experience. This book, in short, is completely overwritten.
Another thing that didn't sit right was the mashup of the small town story with the steampunk elements. For some reason that I can't put a finger on, it felt about as right as aliens showing up on a Mayberry set. It didn't mix well and didn't seem believable. And this is coming from a steampunk fan.
I think that if this book was passed through the hands of a skilled editor, it could be improved quite a bit. But as is, it was painfully dull and I had to make myself read it until I finally gave up about halfway through.
December 14, 2016
Full review here: http://oliviasinkspots.blogspot.com/2...
This is my first K.M. Weiland read, and I really enjoyed it. The characters were all loveable in their own way, and I really liked Jael's accent, and how it read. The setting and worldbuilding was fun to explore, too, with an airship colony and the inner workings.
What was interesting was how every time I thought the story could have ended soon, I'd see the remaining percentage of the ebook and I still had lots more to go. It didn't make me impatient for the end, but it made me wonder what was in store next, and later rather happy I still had so much to read.
This is my first K.M. Weiland read, and I really enjoyed it. The characters were all loveable in their own way, and I really liked Jael's accent, and how it read. The setting and worldbuilding was fun to explore, too, with an airship colony and the inner workings.
What was interesting was how every time I thought the story could have ended soon, I'd see the remaining percentage of the ebook and I still had lots more to go. It didn't make me impatient for the end, but it made me wonder what was in store next, and later rather happy I still had so much to read.
December 27, 2016
Storming gripped me from the very first pages, presenting a fun blend of historical setting and Dieselpunk Fantasy. I’ve always loved 1920s biplanes, and my hopes for a fun and fantastic adventure to end the year with were not disappointed. I loved the characters, especially the main character, Hitch. He had me laughing out loud several times.
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