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Alyria #1
A Girl Named Calamity
Not in publication at this time
I was a simple farm girl living in the magical land, Alyria, where men ruled and women only existed.
Call me sheltered. Call me naive. I was probably both. I never expected to be the key to Alyria's destruction.
The journey I was on wasn't only one to save me. But one where I had a lot of learning to do. With men. With magic. And with myself.
But I wasn't alone. I had an escort. One I wasn't so sure about. But one I couldn't afford to lose and one I wasn't so sure I could even leave.
I had many hopes. But the most important one was that my name wouldn't become my fate.
WARNING: This novel contains blood, violence, profanity, and some sexual content.
It does end on a cliffhanger.
I was a simple farm girl living in the magical land, Alyria, where men ruled and women only existed.
Call me sheltered. Call me naive. I was probably both. I never expected to be the key to Alyria's destruction.
The journey I was on wasn't only one to save me. But one where I had a lot of learning to do. With men. With magic. And with myself.
But I wasn't alone. I had an escort. One I wasn't so sure about. But one I couldn't afford to lose and one I wasn't so sure I could even leave.
I had many hopes. But the most important one was that my name wouldn't become my fate.
WARNING: This novel contains blood, violence, profanity, and some sexual content.
It does end on a cliffhanger.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2016
26 people are currently reading
2518 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Lori
10 books18.7k followersDanielle Lori's novels incorporate morally questionable heroes, electric hate to love relationships, and sometimes sweet but mostly sassy heroines. She has written in both the fantasy subgenre as well as contemporary, but will never stray from romance.
A normal day for her includes coffee, bodice rippers, and 1990s chick flicks. She lives in small-town Iowa with her husband, son, and too many dogs.
UPCOMING RELEASES: MY DEAR HUSBAND, THE VINTAGE CLUB, & THE PUREST ADDICTION (MADE #4)
Website: https://daniellelori.com
Email: authordaniellelori@gmail.com
Facebook page: @authordaniellelori
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cO0fB9
Instagram: @danielleloriwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
September 16, 2017
** First of all: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and I’m really thankful Danielle Lori gave me the opportunity to read her book!! =))) **
Okay, now that this is settled we can go to the fun part! The actual review! XD
I have to admit that this book really surprised me! When I began to read it I didn’t have any expectations and I had absolutely no clue in which kind of direction this would go. Sure, I read the summary but in the end it didn’t provide me with an awful lot of information. It was just enough to make me curious and in some way this probably was the reason why I was so surprised that I actually enjoyed it! *lol*
There were many ideas I liked and the world of Calamity definitely was one of them. I loved the idea of the Red Forest and the cursed mountain! And when I’m already at it I have to admit that I enjoyed the Burning City as well! XD There were so many interesting details that made this book rather unique but then there was also Calamity’s relationship with Weston and I still don’t really know how I feel about this. Well anyway, let’s try to sort my thoughts! Maybe this way I’ll be able to figure it out!
The plot:
Calamity is a young farm girl that has always lived with her grandmother and only knows her rather sheltered life. She never left her grandmother’s side and so she actually never saw more of the world than the little village she grew up in. One day her estranged mother comes to their cottage and tries to steal one of Calamity’s mysterious cuffs and if you’re a fantasy fan like me, it actually doesn’t take much to know that this is the moment her true story begins. ;-P
The characters:
This section will contain spoilers! So yeah if you don’t want to read them I recommend to stop here! If you love spoilers feel free to proceed! It’s up to you! XD
Calamity:
”I asked myself if I really wanted to throw this tantrum, and I did. Because I needed some reassurance that I wasn’t willingly following my captor around and that I really was a prisoner.”
This girl was definitely one of the most contradictory characters I’ve ever met. *lol* On the one hand she was naïve and innocent and on the other hand she had a more than just strong will and was really stubborn. XD Which is a rather interesting mixture. Usually you only get one thing or the other, but definitely not both! So yeah, I kind of liked Calamity for being different! It gave the story a really nice touch and I have to admit that it added to its appeal! =) Still, at some point, I think it was about halfway through the book, the storyline changed and Calamity’s character didn’t. She didn’t learn from her mistakes, always tried to run away from Weston and ended in even more problems than was necessary. I saw no character development and in the end this was really frustrating. I probably was as frustrated as Calamity and I guess that kind of says it all! *LOL*
Weston:
”No one could have convinced me that presence wasn’t a physical substance because it surrounded him as if he had sold his soul, and in exchange, it would ward off any man who entered it.”
This man definitely isn’t your ordinary protagonist. Nothing against a character with rough edges but Weston really gave this an entirely new meaning! *lol* I liked his banter with Calamity and the fact that he always tried to protect her, but at the same time I couldn’t stand the way he handled her. I mean one moment he’s all nice and caring and the other he’s manhandling her and threatens her with physical harm. I never found out about his true motives and what he was really up to and for me this was really, really frustrating. XD I would even go as far as to say that it dampened the experience of reading this nice story and this kind of revelation finally seems to lead me to the main problem I had with this book– Their relationship!
”He was my one safety net, and now I knew it was all a lie. Now, the net only felt like a death sentence. I was caught up in it. Trapped.”
I didn’t like it because their relationship was way too abusive for my taste. I mean Weston is constantly pushing her around and Calamity isn’t able to escape him. Maybe the fact they were so bound to each other had a higher purpose, if yes I obviously just couldn’t seem to be able to figure it out. I mean one moment Calamity wants to kill him and the next she is all over him and wants him so bad?
”Carnal thoughts ran through my head unwillingly. And he probably got some good images of him on top of me, those rough hands roaming everywhere on my body.
And speaking about it, what’s this thing with Calamity and all those different men? She’s a virgin and has no experience with men but whenever one of them kisses her, she’s all over him and wants him to deflower her? *cough* Maxim! *cough* I lost count of how many times men wanted to rape her and I think that actually speaks volumes about this book! *LOL*
Well anyway as much as I disliked Calamity’s weakness for men and especially Weston, I still enjoyed the book. I think if it wouldn’t have changed so drastically in the middle, I really would have even given it four stars. Since I was rather unhappy and frustrated with the development my rating went down to 3 stars though.
All told the story of Calamity was a really nice and enjoyable read. I liked the book despite all its flaws and the world building was just too good not to dive into it! XD
This said, the cliffhanger at the end made me more than just curious and I know sooner or later I’m going to pick up the second book! ;-P
Okay, now that this is settled we can go to the fun part! The actual review! XD
I have to admit that this book really surprised me! When I began to read it I didn’t have any expectations and I had absolutely no clue in which kind of direction this would go. Sure, I read the summary but in the end it didn’t provide me with an awful lot of information. It was just enough to make me curious and in some way this probably was the reason why I was so surprised that I actually enjoyed it! *lol*
There were many ideas I liked and the world of Calamity definitely was one of them. I loved the idea of the Red Forest and the cursed mountain! And when I’m already at it I have to admit that I enjoyed the Burning City as well! XD There were so many interesting details that made this book rather unique but then there was also Calamity’s relationship with Weston and I still don’t really know how I feel about this. Well anyway, let’s try to sort my thoughts! Maybe this way I’ll be able to figure it out!
The plot:
Calamity is a young farm girl that has always lived with her grandmother and only knows her rather sheltered life. She never left her grandmother’s side and so she actually never saw more of the world than the little village she grew up in. One day her estranged mother comes to their cottage and tries to steal one of Calamity’s mysterious cuffs and if you’re a fantasy fan like me, it actually doesn’t take much to know that this is the moment her true story begins. ;-P
The characters:
This section will contain spoilers! So yeah if you don’t want to read them I recommend to stop here! If you love spoilers feel free to proceed! It’s up to you! XD
Calamity:
”I asked myself if I really wanted to throw this tantrum, and I did. Because I needed some reassurance that I wasn’t willingly following my captor around and that I really was a prisoner.”
This girl was definitely one of the most contradictory characters I’ve ever met. *lol* On the one hand she was naïve and innocent and on the other hand she had a more than just strong will and was really stubborn. XD Which is a rather interesting mixture. Usually you only get one thing or the other, but definitely not both! So yeah, I kind of liked Calamity for being different! It gave the story a really nice touch and I have to admit that it added to its appeal! =) Still, at some point, I think it was about halfway through the book, the storyline changed and Calamity’s character didn’t. She didn’t learn from her mistakes, always tried to run away from Weston and ended in even more problems than was necessary. I saw no character development and in the end this was really frustrating. I probably was as frustrated as Calamity and I guess that kind of says it all! *LOL*
Weston:
”No one could have convinced me that presence wasn’t a physical substance because it surrounded him as if he had sold his soul, and in exchange, it would ward off any man who entered it.”
This man definitely isn’t your ordinary protagonist. Nothing against a character with rough edges but Weston really gave this an entirely new meaning! *lol* I liked his banter with Calamity and the fact that he always tried to protect her, but at the same time I couldn’t stand the way he handled her. I mean one moment he’s all nice and caring and the other he’s manhandling her and threatens her with physical harm. I never found out about his true motives and what he was really up to and for me this was really, really frustrating. XD I would even go as far as to say that it dampened the experience of reading this nice story and this kind of revelation finally seems to lead me to the main problem I had with this book– Their relationship!
”He was my one safety net, and now I knew it was all a lie. Now, the net only felt like a death sentence. I was caught up in it. Trapped.”
I didn’t like it because their relationship was way too abusive for my taste. I mean Weston is constantly pushing her around and Calamity isn’t able to escape him. Maybe the fact they were so bound to each other had a higher purpose, if yes I obviously just couldn’t seem to be able to figure it out. I mean one moment Calamity wants to kill him and the next she is all over him and wants him so bad?
”Carnal thoughts ran through my head unwillingly. And he probably got some good images of him on top of me, those rough hands roaming everywhere on my body.
And speaking about it, what’s this thing with Calamity and all those different men? She’s a virgin and has no experience with men but whenever one of them kisses her, she’s all over him and wants him to deflower her? *cough* Maxim! *cough* I lost count of how many times men wanted to rape her and I think that actually speaks volumes about this book! *LOL*
Well anyway as much as I disliked Calamity’s weakness for men and especially Weston, I still enjoyed the book. I think if it wouldn’t have changed so drastically in the middle, I really would have even given it four stars. Since I was rather unhappy and frustrated with the development my rating went down to 3 stars though.
All told the story of Calamity was a really nice and enjoyable read. I liked the book despite all its flaws and the world building was just too good not to dive into it! XD
This said, the cliffhanger at the end made me more than just curious and I know sooner or later I’m going to pick up the second book! ;-P
October 5, 2016
4.75 "Calamity" stars
Calamity is a simple farm girl, living just as simple as she's ever been aware of with her grandmother in a simple cottage outside of the city. She's innocent in every aspect there is, she's sympatically naive and open-hearted, sincere yet also wise beyond her age. She's known of her mother but she has never known her until one day , she showed up sick and tried to take cuffs from Calamity's hands. She had always had them on, never took them off and she never new their purpose and meaning.
Instead of feeling special for wearing such expensive cuffs, I felt as if they were grounding me to a life that wasn't meant to be.
All of a sudden, the veil of security has been torn off of her and none of the notions spewed on her did touch her in acknowledgment
You were soaked in magic, Cal
She's literaly pushed out the door confused, scared in astonishment and sceptic gaze towards to unknown trying so hard to comprehend the meaning of her grandmother's words...
That alone will set Calamity on the journey of peril, grave mortal danger while she's trying to reach Undaley city to stay safe but the road she embarked on is nothing but the danger itself and she seeks help of a man to escort her to her destination, little did she know the game would quickly change, the mixed feelings lingering from attention, above attraction conflicting with anger and helplessness against the most complicated, complex, hard , scary and mysterious man...Weston.
Maybe this was what he wanted. Terrify me, to keep me in line, now that I knew I was his pawn in whatever endgame he had planned.
she's compelled by his presence, afraid yet the unusual companionship forms between them, and the constant push and pull sets the unknown emotions through her body, mind, and soul and she's weak against his powers, as he knows her every next step, every thought before she even realizes it but he has an agenda of his own, and his only mission is to keep her alive to fulfill it.
He was someone who had motives that I was sure were selfish. Someone who could snap my neck before I could blink. Someone way out of a simple farm's girl's league. And someone who didn't care about me.
The eternal banter, the new emotions confuse Calamity even more than she thought possible, the attraction, the heat, the awakenings of her senses make it hard to resist
…his lips were so close to my mouth. I was drawn to them like a moth to a flame and couldn't stop myself slowly turning my head until my lipds brushed his.
My bottom lip fit in-between his, and I moaned as he pulled it in between his teeth.
Even though Weston is not totally immune, he's stronger and under total control of closed off, still he bends into his own hidden desires
and when Calamity figures out the game change and the constant teasing of carnal tension, she wants to run, and brake the spell Weston has over her
I looked at him with hatred, and he looked at me with indifference.
Fuck you.
Princess, you couldn't handle me.
She's conflicted inside as she's finding her way to cope with every awakened sense, the flourish of her sexuality, that sets her on fire and shuttles up every tingle through her body messing up the awareness of danger, lurring sensual attraction and her own innocent dreams while the notion of self-recongition and self-awareness doesn't reign fully
I wanted him to be my first, I wanted him to show me. More than a lot of other things. And that made me nauseated because I wanted it too much. It would have meant more to me than it would him.
it might be too late to change the odds of the mental game in her favor but she would never stop or even die trying...
and she's not even aware how close to the truth she actually is...
The experiences I would never have flashed through my mind…
The murky depths pulled me down. My eyelids were too heavy to keep them open, and I let them close as the water covered them.
My first encounter with the work of Danielle Lori, has set off some inner creative urges within me. LOL But jokes aside, the storytelling is flowing with a steady pace and it goes along with the story line of a continuous journey. The main heroine embarks on a life altering path of self-recognition, in search of the truth, of who she really is, the reasons why it was hidden from her, which stay shadowed until the very end and even then we only get a glimpse of notion...and then we are left in a dark, utter dark of knife cutting anticipation and in huge need for answers.
What stunned me through out the story were visual pictures the author so masterly describes, yes, it's a fantasy genre and everything is allowed but it can also lead into over the top abundance and THAT is NOT the case here, on the contrary, it's fantastically interwoven with events, dialogues and most of all the feeling of continuous anticipation and angst that set my inner butterflies to fly for their money. That was just simple magic.
The reason this isn't a 5 star rating is because I felt in over all like it was a bit prolongued and the game of chase and catch sometimes felt like just one game too many. But that's my opinion and my sentiment alone.
This is still a remarkable story, with a fluid writing, likable characters filled with thrill of anticipation and rush even if there's no actual punch line/deed that we are eagerly anticipating. Still that lingering feeling of overwhelming, tingling sensation is worth it.
Urging Ms. Lori to speed up the writing of the second book ASAP. :)
I am still truly amazed!
*** A COPY generously given by the Author Danielle Lori in exchange for an honest review!***
For more info and reviews visit
July 1, 2017
3 Stars
Reading A Girl Named Calamity was like reading a combination of Throne of Glass and Shadow and Bone. It simply has a lot of potentials. I loved the plot, the world building, and the magical concept. It's almost perfect, but then the main characters happened and they were difficult to like.
The story begins when Calamity discovered that she has a hidden magic and she is the key to the destruction of Alyria. To prevent such demise, she was sent away by her grandmother and urged her to go to Undaley City right away. Her grandmother insisted that she will never remove her cuffs so her supernatural abilities will be concealed from the people who are chasing her. On her way, she met the brooding assassin named Weston who helped her get to her destination safely. However, she's not sure about his motives on why he's helping her.
This book was adventure-packed and full of action. There were some scenes that wowed me, like the one where Calamity entered the Red Forest and the place rained blood. I loved that scene so much! The way it was described was just... wow! I have to say that the vividly described settings where Calamity and Weston traveled here were the ultimate strength of this book.
The plot was thoroughly crafted and the magical concept was clean. I could say that the writing was also good, but it needs a bit of an improvement to bring out a livelier portrayal.
I hate to say this... but I found my biggest pet peeve here: annoying character. I didn't like Calamity as a heroine. She was poorly developed and she annoyed me too much. If I'm Weston, I've already left her sooner because she just can't stop whining and asking questions on repeat. Plus, she made numerous reckless decisions that led her to danger. And she doesn't even learn from her mistakes. Ugh.
I also didn't like Weston. Nothing's wrong with being a brooding character but he was so rude all the time. We might not notice it but he also tends to become an abusive hero. All throughout the book I was hoping that he'd get nice and his character will improve, but to no avail.
This could have been an amazing read for me if the characters turned out to be likable. The ending was powerful, though. It was a cliffhanger but it was done in sophistication. The kind that leaves the reader with so much anticipation on what will happen in the next book.
(A free copy of this book was provided by the author Danielle Lori in exchange for an honest review.)
Reading A Girl Named Calamity was like reading a combination of Throne of Glass and Shadow and Bone. It simply has a lot of potentials. I loved the plot, the world building, and the magical concept. It's almost perfect, but then the main characters happened and they were difficult to like.
The story begins when Calamity discovered that she has a hidden magic and she is the key to the destruction of Alyria. To prevent such demise, she was sent away by her grandmother and urged her to go to Undaley City right away. Her grandmother insisted that she will never remove her cuffs so her supernatural abilities will be concealed from the people who are chasing her. On her way, she met the brooding assassin named Weston who helped her get to her destination safely. However, she's not sure about his motives on why he's helping her.
This book was adventure-packed and full of action. There were some scenes that wowed me, like the one where Calamity entered the Red Forest and the place rained blood. I loved that scene so much! The way it was described was just... wow! I have to say that the vividly described settings where Calamity and Weston traveled here were the ultimate strength of this book.
The plot was thoroughly crafted and the magical concept was clean. I could say that the writing was also good, but it needs a bit of an improvement to bring out a livelier portrayal.
I hate to say this... but I found my biggest pet peeve here: annoying character. I didn't like Calamity as a heroine. She was poorly developed and she annoyed me too much. If I'm Weston, I've already left her sooner because she just can't stop whining and asking questions on repeat. Plus, she made numerous reckless decisions that led her to danger. And she doesn't even learn from her mistakes. Ugh.
I also didn't like Weston. Nothing's wrong with being a brooding character but he was so rude all the time. We might not notice it but he also tends to become an abusive hero. All throughout the book I was hoping that he'd get nice and his character will improve, but to no avail.
This could have been an amazing read for me if the characters turned out to be likable. The ending was powerful, though. It was a cliffhanger but it was done in sophistication. The kind that leaves the reader with so much anticipation on what will happen in the next book.
(A free copy of this book was provided by the author Danielle Lori in exchange for an honest review.)
August 14, 2018
Fantastic story!! Review to come jumping into the next book - Weston and Calamity and the seal what a journey!!
September 20, 2017
Once I began this story I was pulled into the entire conflict, magic, and excitement of Calamity and Weston. Never sure exactly where I wanted their pact to go. I followed along with their bad decisions, quarrels, and dangers. The world was amazingly described. I could feel the blood forest and the cursed mountain pass. Each destination was well written and provided an entire new set of problems.
Sometimes I grew annoyed at calamity's inability to stay out of trouble. Reckless and harebrained most of the time but somehow still alive and kicking at the cliffhanger end.
Weston is an assassin and he is just a killing machine. Of course, I still held out hope for him to have some feelings I could appreciate. I hope that Book two is as interesting and maybe a little less Calamity making mistake driven. Great fantasy concept and story.
Sometimes I grew annoyed at calamity's inability to stay out of trouble. Reckless and harebrained most of the time but somehow still alive and kicking at the cliffhanger end.
Weston is an assassin and he is just a killing machine. Of course, I still held out hope for him to have some feelings I could appreciate. I hope that Book two is as interesting and maybe a little less Calamity making mistake driven. Great fantasy concept and story.
November 23, 2021
2.25 ✨
sad coz the potential was not met. i couldnt get shit bout the world / plot / what these two’s goal for their journey, roadtrip, whatever tf (though thats prob just me not paying enough attention). the couple’s…. not bad, they had chemistry so potential’s there but personally i didnt feel anything here. but 2.25 stars is solely for them. weston’s the only good thing in this, the girl was a real calamity to my headache, but alas this is ms lori we’re talkin bout so on to book 2
”Do you know what this is between us?” he asked.
“What?”
“Lust. You’ll have it with many men. Don’t try to make it into something special.”
I tensed, irritation flaring through me. “Do you think I’ve been pining over you or something?”
“I can hear your thoughts, Princess.”
“Yea, well, you didn’t hear my thoughts when I was sitting on Maxim’s lap with my tongue in his—”
“Enough,” he barked.”
sad coz the potential was not met. i couldnt get shit bout the world / plot / what these two’s goal for their journey, roadtrip, whatever tf (though thats prob just me not paying enough attention). the couple’s…. not bad, they had chemistry so potential’s there but personally i didnt feel anything here. but 2.25 stars is solely for them. weston’s the only good thing in this, the girl was a real calamity to my headache, but alas this is ms lori we’re talkin bout so on to book 2
”Do you know what this is between us?” he asked.
“What?”
“Lust. You’ll have it with many men. Don’t try to make it into something special.”
I tensed, irritation flaring through me. “Do you think I’ve been pining over you or something?”
“I can hear your thoughts, Princess.”
“Yea, well, you didn’t hear my thoughts when I was sitting on Maxim’s lap with my tongue in his—”
“Enough,” he barked.”
July 17, 2017
Wow! I don’t even know how to write a review for this! It cannot be summarized nor can it be wrapped up in a few paragraphs. I will say that this is one heck of a ride! From the very first page to the last Ms. Lori takes you on a cross country trip the likes you have never known.
Calamity doesn’t know what her future holds. She’s just kind of letting it push her along without any fight or struggle, although deep inside she knows the life before her is not the one she would choose. Then there’s all kind of drama at Grandma’s house that causes Calamity to set off on a cross country trip when she’s never even left her own small town. She is young, innocent and completely clueless because suddenly the world she lives in explodes with more danger and mayhem than she could have ever imagined.
This has some incredible main characters as well as some of the wittiest and smartest dialogue I’ve read in quite a while. The dynamics between Calamity and her tour guide, Weston, is crazy diverse and man, you just never know what they’re going to do or say. I loved it!
Forewarning though, this ends in one doozie of a cliffhanger. The good news, the second book A Girl in Black and White, is just around the corner.
Heroine POV
Contains Violence
Calamity doesn’t know what her future holds. She’s just kind of letting it push her along without any fight or struggle, although deep inside she knows the life before her is not the one she would choose. Then there’s all kind of drama at Grandma’s house that causes Calamity to set off on a cross country trip when she’s never even left her own small town. She is young, innocent and completely clueless because suddenly the world she lives in explodes with more danger and mayhem than she could have ever imagined.
This has some incredible main characters as well as some of the wittiest and smartest dialogue I’ve read in quite a while. The dynamics between Calamity and her tour guide, Weston, is crazy diverse and man, you just never know what they’re going to do or say. I loved it!
Forewarning though, this ends in one doozie of a cliffhanger. The good news, the second book A Girl in Black and White, is just around the corner.
Heroine POV
Contains Violence
August 23, 2016
After her mother walked out, Calamity grew up sheltered from the harsh realities of life under the watchful eye of her grandmother. She was an innocent, naïve to the ways of a land where men ruled and women were carnal chattel for the taking. And then, her mother came slinking back into her life, a true thief in the night and from that moment on, Calamity’s life would echo her name as she must run, alone from unknown evil who knows she exists and will stop at nothing to possess her and the powers she didn’t know she possessed.
Danielle Lori’s break out novel is a tale of a girl who must learn to understand the way of the world, the way of the men she encounters and the truth of the magic she owns. A Girl Named Calamity, the first in a new series Alyria starts out innocently enough, but soon shows its true colors as Calamity learns the lack of value women carry in a world where men can be sexual deviants and monsters and a woman has no recourse except to accept the protection of a man of importance and power. She has hired an assassin to escort her on her journey, a choice that leaves her both repelled and attracted in equal measure. Can she trust the dark stranger with her life and her honor? Can she learn not to speak her mind and act on impulse in order to remain safe? Clearly Calamity is in over her head, unprepared for the world filled with magic around her or the injustices she will find.
Ms. Lori has put an earthy spin on a fantasy filled with sexual undertones of all kinds and has the boldness to never hold back the language or actions of her characters, all while placing them on a journey of massive importance, saving or destroying the world as it is known. Moments of heated tension, humorous happenings and the confusion of a young woman who is clearly out of her element and of greatest danger to herself. An intriguing start to a new series from a new voice in the reading world.
I received this copy from Danielle Lori in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Alyria - Book 1
Publication Date: July 13, 2016
Publisher: Danielle Lori
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 246 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Danielle Lori’s break out novel is a tale of a girl who must learn to understand the way of the world, the way of the men she encounters and the truth of the magic she owns. A Girl Named Calamity, the first in a new series Alyria starts out innocently enough, but soon shows its true colors as Calamity learns the lack of value women carry in a world where men can be sexual deviants and monsters and a woman has no recourse except to accept the protection of a man of importance and power. She has hired an assassin to escort her on her journey, a choice that leaves her both repelled and attracted in equal measure. Can she trust the dark stranger with her life and her honor? Can she learn not to speak her mind and act on impulse in order to remain safe? Clearly Calamity is in over her head, unprepared for the world filled with magic around her or the injustices she will find.
Ms. Lori has put an earthy spin on a fantasy filled with sexual undertones of all kinds and has the boldness to never hold back the language or actions of her characters, all while placing them on a journey of massive importance, saving or destroying the world as it is known. Moments of heated tension, humorous happenings and the confusion of a young woman who is clearly out of her element and of greatest danger to herself. An intriguing start to a new series from a new voice in the reading world.
I received this copy from Danielle Lori in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Alyria - Book 1
Publication Date: July 13, 2016
Publisher: Danielle Lori
Genre: Fantasy
Print Length: 246 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 13, 2017
I don't think I can put together a decent review. The cliff just killed me and all I want is to jump into the next one. But then, I wouldn't be able to sleep....
Okay. I'll try.
The beginning was a bit weird for me. It felt as the story began at Chapter 3 and it didn't make any sense to me what's going on. Still, I was immediately pulled into the story and couldn't put it down. Except when real life interrupted. *eye roll*
The plot is really interesting; mysterious, filled with bloodshed and violence, magic, humor and great chemistry. And of course my fave trope -> hate-love relationship. It's mostly hate and some would say, a bit violent as the H constantly manhandles the heroine. She's a mouthy rebel. A spitfire. Naive and a virgin. Weak in body, but strong minded. The H is a cold, ruthless assassin. He's mean to her, but really protective, maybe even a little possessive. I loved them both.
The writing style worked for me. The two kisses the heroine shares with two different men, were done in a no cheating/love triangle manner. It didn't bother me at all. I even chuckled when the H went all crazy when he saw them.
Just a warning ahead. I will lose my shit if one of the MC's kisses OM/OW in the next installment. The intimacy between them reached that point when I'm not chuckling anymore if you catch my drift.
Thank you, Tina darling! I really enjoyed it. xox
Okay. I'll try.
The beginning was a bit weird for me. It felt as the story began at Chapter 3 and it didn't make any sense to me what's going on. Still, I was immediately pulled into the story and couldn't put it down. Except when real life interrupted. *eye roll*
The plot is really interesting; mysterious, filled with bloodshed and violence, magic, humor and great chemistry. And of course my fave trope -> hate-love relationship. It's mostly hate and some would say, a bit violent as the H constantly manhandles the heroine. She's a mouthy rebel. A spitfire. Naive and a virgin. Weak in body, but strong minded. The H is a cold, ruthless assassin. He's mean to her, but really protective, maybe even a little possessive. I loved them both.
The writing style worked for me. The two kisses the heroine shares with two different men, were done in a no cheating/love triangle manner. It didn't bother me at all. I even chuckled when the H went all crazy when he saw them.
Just a warning ahead. I will lose my shit if one of the MC's kisses OM/OW in the next installment. The intimacy between them reached that point when I'm not chuckling anymore if you catch my drift.
Thank you, Tina darling! I really enjoyed it. xox
April 23, 2018
I really liked this one or I should say I enjoyed Weston.
If you are into paranormal fantasy then this a book for you.
It ends with a cliffy....so here hoping for next to come soon
If you are into paranormal fantasy then this a book for you.
It ends with a cliffy....so here hoping for next to come soon
August 24, 2017
There's a reason I love fantasy books and there's a reason I love romantic books but put them together and you get this. A brilliantly wonderful fantasy story. A story that has me so compelled that I had to go straight to Amazon and download the second book.
I can NOT get enough. I'm in love with this series.
Here's what I loved,
Weston - now Weston is my kind of character, you know he's hot, he's a bit of a bastard, he's an assassin so he's VERY alpha and shows that throughout, he has the confidence and the attitude, both of which you can't help but love. He's the sort of character that in reality you shouldn't want but the sort of character that has those traits that you can't help but fall for. I love characters that are complex. I'm really in awe of authors who write their characters so well that its hard not to fall in love.
Calamity - she is such a spunky character. Before having to leave the only home she has ever known, Calamity was living the mundane, she lived with her grandmother and wasn't so much content, as she was stuck. But as that was the life she had ever known she never had any qualms. Until all that changed and she is forced to flee to survive. She encounters Weston. At first they tolerate each other because they have to but as situations arise, feelings become clearer. But there is betrayal and discord. I really took to her character and I enjoyed the back and forth banter between Calamity and Weston. The tension between them sparks the whole book.
The world building - the author has written Alyria so well, you actually believe that you're there. The changing seasons and the different weather elements in each town/city they come to, really make it fantastical. But funnily enough, believable fantasy. You have to have that element of realism, well for me anyway, really helps me to connect with the story.
Okay, here's my dislikes,
Nothing, nada, not-a-dot. Actually I hated the way Calamity called her grandmother, grandmother. Don't asked me why, I think its because it doesn't seem as endearing to me as say gran or Nanna etc. But that's it, that's all I hate. What does that tell you eh? All I'm going to say now is that you need to buy this book. Please beware though that it does end on a cliffhanger but you can buy the second book straight away. Loved it!
I can NOT get enough. I'm in love with this series.
Here's what I loved,
Weston - now Weston is my kind of character, you know he's hot, he's a bit of a bastard, he's an assassin so he's VERY alpha and shows that throughout, he has the confidence and the attitude, both of which you can't help but love. He's the sort of character that in reality you shouldn't want but the sort of character that has those traits that you can't help but fall for. I love characters that are complex. I'm really in awe of authors who write their characters so well that its hard not to fall in love.
Calamity - she is such a spunky character. Before having to leave the only home she has ever known, Calamity was living the mundane, she lived with her grandmother and wasn't so much content, as she was stuck. But as that was the life she had ever known she never had any qualms. Until all that changed and she is forced to flee to survive. She encounters Weston. At first they tolerate each other because they have to but as situations arise, feelings become clearer. But there is betrayal and discord. I really took to her character and I enjoyed the back and forth banter between Calamity and Weston. The tension between them sparks the whole book.
The world building - the author has written Alyria so well, you actually believe that you're there. The changing seasons and the different weather elements in each town/city they come to, really make it fantastical. But funnily enough, believable fantasy. You have to have that element of realism, well for me anyway, really helps me to connect with the story.
Okay, here's my dislikes,
Nothing, nada, not-a-dot. Actually I hated the way Calamity called her grandmother, grandmother. Don't asked me why, I think its because it doesn't seem as endearing to me as say gran or Nanna etc. But that's it, that's all I hate. What does that tell you eh? All I'm going to say now is that you need to buy this book. Please beware though that it does end on a cliffhanger but you can buy the second book straight away. Loved it!
April 14, 2021
Holy shit! This is why I love fantasy.
5 phenomenal Stars!
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
➔ 𝐀𝐥𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
#1. A Girl Named Calamity | 5 stars
#2. My review of ➞ A Girl in Black and White | 3.75 stars
#3. A Girl with a Tragic Ever After | ➞tbr
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
5 phenomenal Stars!
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
➔ 𝐀𝐥𝐲𝐫𝐢𝐚 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
#1. A Girl Named Calamity | 5 stars
#2. My review of ➞ A Girl in Black and White | 3.75 stars
#3. A Girl with a Tragic Ever After | ➞tbr
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
September 12, 2017
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance
I was a simple farm girl living in the magical land, Alyria, where men ruled and women only existed.
Call me sheltered. Call me naive. I was probably both. I never expected to be the key to Alyria's destruction.
The journey I was on wasn't only one to save me. But one where I had a lot of learning to do. With men. With magic. And with myself.
But I wasn't alone. I had an escort. One I wasn't so sure about. But one I couldn't afford to lose and one I wasn't so sure I could even leave.
I had many hopes. But the most important one was that my name wouldn't become my fate.
WARNING: This novel contains blood, violence, profanity, and some sexual content.
It does end on a cliffhanger
ok. I know..I know, It was already warned that the book would end on a cliffhanger but still...holy shit. This book was definitely an adventure.
Calamity is a girl from Alger; a city known for a quiet magic-free life.
She is spunky, stubborn and has a vivid sense of imagination that's downright hilarious and morbid at times. She's lived a rather sheltered-content life with her grandmother. Until all that changes when she's forced to flee in the middle of the night-without much explanation from her grandmother except that there are bad people searching for her. She is told to travel to Cameron city to find an escort who'll take her to Undaley city. This is where she meets Weston- the hot blooded, broody emerald eyed Titan.
He is the complete opposite of Cal; while she's a talkative- he prefers the quite, while she's soft hearted- he's blood thirsty.
I actually really liked this book- All I can say is- I was there, every step of the way! I was there when the red forest was described- and holy shit was it described! so well that I felt the fear, the curiosity and for a moment,the awestruck wonder, that is the 'Red Forest'.I was there when they described the atrocity- that is the entrance to the city of Sylvia. I was there smiling along with Calamity when she looked at the stars, fires crackling, when a gold streak flew across the dark blue sky ( It was said that every time someone in Alyria fell in love, a gold star would fly).
The First book was definitely a build up for me so i'm really looking forward to the next book.
Note: I am giving it a 4 star because though the book was a slow burn/build up, the world the author created was truly captivating and so vividly described that you cant help but imagine it yourself.
A Girl Named Calamity
July 29, 2017
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was not sure what I was getting into when I started reading this book but I went along for the ride anyway and, well, what a ride it was.
A Girl Named Calamity was about a farm girl who's life had changed. She needed to leave home when she discovered that she's the key to Alyria's destruction. Her adventure began with the help of a hired assassin, Weston, to reach her destination. But the question was, can he be trusted?
Weston's character was really intriguing. He's such an enigma, a labyrinth you'd want to explore. Every single time I flipped for the next page, I always wished that I could get a POV of him so I'd know what the heck was whirring on his mind. But as expected, there's none.
I thought it was confusing and a bit boring. But it had a complex and intricately plotted tale. It was a bit too fast-paced but really exciting and an action-adventure extravaganza.
I just find it really disturbing how OC Calamity was—she ALWAYS takes a bath in every city they'd been to. Also, another disturbing thing I noticed was how terrible women were treated in Alyria. I get that the author was trying to show us how brutal the world our heroine lives in, I get that women were treated poorly... No, actually I don't get why women and children were poorly treated. I can only take so much as reading on every page about everyone's sex life and desires.
However, I am excited on how Calamity and Weston's story will progress. I'm so ready to get these two together.
All in all, I liked it. I was hoping for more than what the book gave. Anyway, the ending was shocking. I mean, we were promised that it doesn't have a cliffhanging ending, but of course I knew there was a cliffhanger, I just didn’t think it would be that intense. I'm really excited to read the next one.
I was not sure what I was getting into when I started reading this book but I went along for the ride anyway and, well, what a ride it was.
A Girl Named Calamity was about a farm girl who's life had changed. She needed to leave home when she discovered that she's the key to Alyria's destruction. Her adventure began with the help of a hired assassin, Weston, to reach her destination. But the question was, can he be trusted?
Weston's character was really intriguing. He's such an enigma, a labyrinth you'd want to explore. Every single time I flipped for the next page, I always wished that I could get a POV of him so I'd know what the heck was whirring on his mind. But as expected, there's none.
I thought it was confusing and a bit boring. But it had a complex and intricately plotted tale. It was a bit too fast-paced but really exciting and an action-adventure extravaganza.
I just find it really disturbing how OC Calamity was—she ALWAYS takes a bath in every city they'd been to. Also, another disturbing thing I noticed was how terrible women were treated in Alyria. I get that the author was trying to show us how brutal the world our heroine lives in, I get that women were treated poorly... No, actually I don't get why women and children were poorly treated. I can only take so much as reading on every page about everyone's sex life and desires.
However, I am excited on how Calamity and Weston's story will progress. I'm so ready to get these two together.
All in all, I liked it. I was hoping for more than what the book gave. Anyway, the ending was shocking. I mean, we were promised that it doesn't have a cliffhanging ending, but of course I knew there was a cliffhanger, I just didn’t think it would be that intense. I'm really excited to read the next one.
February 2, 2017
I like the story. Parts of it were a little confusing but overall it was a good read.
I actually like Weston. I am not sure if I am supposed to but I have a feeling about him and oh, how I hope I am right.
However, that ending is just plain mean!! Lol!!
I look forward to finding out what happens.
I actually like Weston. I am not sure if I am supposed to but I have a feeling about him and oh, how I hope I am right.
However, that ending is just plain mean!! Lol!!
I look forward to finding out what happens.
September 12, 2017
5 STARS
If I hadn't checked out this author before hand then I would never have guessed that this was a debut. I freaking LOVED it. Slow build up to the romance portion but everything else kept me so entertained that it didn't feel like it was JUST about the romance. The world that this author created was extremely fascinating, I don't read a lot of fantasy so I'm definitely not an expert on the genre but I was really impressed that this felt so different from what I usually read. Calamity (if you weren't tipped off by the book name this is the heroine) and Weston (hero) were amazing together! The love/hate thing happening between them is so scorching that I didn't even care that there wasn't any actual sex (Sorry, Jesse :D ) I loved it. Even if you don't normally read fantasy, I would still recommend it if you like a hot anti-hero, a different type of read or a heroine who is both independent and sweet at the same time.
Triggers-
If I hadn't checked out this author before hand then I would never have guessed that this was a debut. I freaking LOVED it. Slow build up to the romance portion but everything else kept me so entertained that it didn't feel like it was JUST about the romance. The world that this author created was extremely fascinating, I don't read a lot of fantasy so I'm definitely not an expert on the genre but I was really impressed that this felt so different from what I usually read. Calamity (if you weren't tipped off by the book name this is the heroine) and Weston (hero) were amazing together! The love/hate thing happening between them is so scorching that I didn't even care that there wasn't any actual sex (Sorry, Jesse :D ) I loved it. Even if you don't normally read fantasy, I would still recommend it if you like a hot anti-hero, a different type of read or a heroine who is both independent and sweet at the same time.
Triggers-
April 9, 2017
Going into this book I was really excited but unfortunately my expectations weren't met. What started of as a mysterious and thrilling story soon turned repetitive and somewhat boring. Personally I didn't like either of the two main characters and found Calamity to be rather irritating and foolish. Weston also seemed overpowered and I never really felt like our characters were in ever real danger because of this. I also had a problem with their relationship as a whole, it was unhealthy and almost romanticised his violent tendencies.
However, there were some small positives in this book. It did hold somewhat its mystery throughout and there are still many questions yet to be answered. The book also left on a cliffhanger making me curious to see where our story was heading and leaving me interested in possibly reading the next book.
Overall I didn't like this book very much and I wasn't really invested in the journey of its characters. There was minimal plot and the magic system didn't seem to interest me.
However, there were some small positives in this book. It did hold somewhat its mystery throughout and there are still many questions yet to be answered. The book also left on a cliffhanger making me curious to see where our story was heading and leaving me interested in possibly reading the next book.
Overall I didn't like this book very much and I wasn't really invested in the journey of its characters. There was minimal plot and the magic system didn't seem to interest me.
January 8, 2018
GAH! That ending was brutal! I'm still in shock. I knew something was going to happen but I never expected that.
I really loved Calamity. She's in a situation she never once thought she'd be in. At times she can be very vulnerable, and my heart would ache for her and the things she had to go through. But she is also fierce and takes crap from no one. Especially Weston.
Weston, well, he's an enigma. One minute I think I might have a clue about his motives and who he really is underneath that rough exterior, and then, he has to go and ruin it. There are little moments where his soft side comes out, which makes it hard not to root for him. Despite his mysterious ways and all, I loved him. It was inevitable.
The angst is killing me. It hurts so good, though. I need these two to get together soon or I might explode. There's no doubt I'll be reading the next book.
I need more Weston, please!
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review!*
I really loved Calamity. She's in a situation she never once thought she'd be in. At times she can be very vulnerable, and my heart would ache for her and the things she had to go through. But she is also fierce and takes crap from no one. Especially Weston.
Weston, well, he's an enigma. One minute I think I might have a clue about his motives and who he really is underneath that rough exterior, and then, he has to go and ruin it. There are little moments where his soft side comes out, which makes it hard not to root for him. Despite his mysterious ways and all, I loved him. It was inevitable.
The angst is killing me. It hurts so good, though. I need these two to get together soon or I might explode. There's no doubt I'll be reading the next book.
I need more Weston, please!
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review!*
November 21, 2016
4.5 Stars!!!!
I'm going to be honest. I had to brace myself before I read this book because it basically contains all the things I try to stay away from in books:
1) Paranormal/ fantasy
2) Blood and gore
3) Brutish alpha male
4) And my worst: CLIFFHANGER!
I knew it all of these things going in so I started reading with a bit of trepidation. it took me all of three pages to get hooked, because surprisingly, this book contains everything I love as well (how weird)
1) Strong female MC (Just so you know, Calamity describes herself as weak all the time, but I just couldn't see her that way. Vulnerable and inexperienced, yes, but definitely not weak)
2) Slow burn
3) Scorching hot sexual chemistry (even without sex)
4) Asshole hero with a softer side.
5) Humour (wasn't expecting that at all)
6) Great storyline
7) Complete unpredictability
I think I need to take some time to talk about Weston. I don't believe in insta-love. In fact, I hate it, but I fell for Weston the second I met him (swoons and fans self). This guy is everything you want in a hero. He's strong, sexy, protective, abrasive but still caring in the ways that matter (just hang on a second, I need to wipe the drool off myself - okay, I'm good now). Look, he is an assassin so there is that slight problem of him slitting throats left, right and centre, but I could overlook that, because honestly, it added to his appeal.
So the story is about Calamity thrown into a world she has no knowledge of. She carries a great responsibility on her shoulders and thus has to escape the people who will use her to create havoc. Her character was portrayed so perfectly and was very realistic in context of the story. I really loved seeing her and Weston's relationship develop, but not only that, I loved watching how she grew as a person as the story progressed.
As I said above, she is vulnerable due to her lack of experience. There were some situations where she got herself in trouble and other situations where Weston was to blame, but even though he had to save her on a number of occasions, I never saw her as a damsel in distress. It's odd that this story was bloody and gruesome yet I still saw the magic and beauty in it. There were tender moments and moments that I was smiling like a dork and then there were also moments where i just had to take a second and gasp, because I was like: WTF just happened. I simply loved it and the little gems of humour and sarcasm floating all over the book just made it more enjoyable.
The only reason I knocked off half a star was because I became edgy, just waiting for these two to kiss, but that's me (I'm too fluffy)
I must say that the ending is f**ked up, so now I'm edgy again impatiently waiting for the next book!
*Arc received in exchange for an honest review*
I'm going to be honest. I had to brace myself before I read this book because it basically contains all the things I try to stay away from in books:
1) Paranormal/ fantasy
2) Blood and gore
3) Brutish alpha male
4) And my worst: CLIFFHANGER!
I knew it all of these things going in so I started reading with a bit of trepidation. it took me all of three pages to get hooked, because surprisingly, this book contains everything I love as well (how weird)
1) Strong female MC (Just so you know, Calamity describes herself as weak all the time, but I just couldn't see her that way. Vulnerable and inexperienced, yes, but definitely not weak)
2) Slow burn
3) Scorching hot sexual chemistry (even without sex)
4) Asshole hero with a softer side.
5) Humour (wasn't expecting that at all)
6) Great storyline
7) Complete unpredictability
I think I need to take some time to talk about Weston. I don't believe in insta-love. In fact, I hate it, but I fell for Weston the second I met him (swoons and fans self). This guy is everything you want in a hero. He's strong, sexy, protective, abrasive but still caring in the ways that matter (just hang on a second, I need to wipe the drool off myself - okay, I'm good now). Look, he is an assassin so there is that slight problem of him slitting throats left, right and centre, but I could overlook that, because honestly, it added to his appeal.
So the story is about Calamity thrown into a world she has no knowledge of. She carries a great responsibility on her shoulders and thus has to escape the people who will use her to create havoc. Her character was portrayed so perfectly and was very realistic in context of the story. I really loved seeing her and Weston's relationship develop, but not only that, I loved watching how she grew as a person as the story progressed.
As I said above, she is vulnerable due to her lack of experience. There were some situations where she got herself in trouble and other situations where Weston was to blame, but even though he had to save her on a number of occasions, I never saw her as a damsel in distress. It's odd that this story was bloody and gruesome yet I still saw the magic and beauty in it. There were tender moments and moments that I was smiling like a dork and then there were also moments where i just had to take a second and gasp, because I was like: WTF just happened. I simply loved it and the little gems of humour and sarcasm floating all over the book just made it more enjoyable.
The only reason I knocked off half a star was because I became edgy, just waiting for these two to kiss, but that's me (I'm too fluffy)
I must say that the ending is f**ked up, so now I'm edgy again impatiently waiting for the next book!
*Arc received in exchange for an honest review*
June 13, 2018
5 Stars!
Couldn’t put this down once I started it. I loved it!! I’m off to the second book because this one ended on a huge cliff!
Couldn’t put this down once I started it. I loved it!! I’m off to the second book because this one ended on a huge cliff!
September 16, 2021
characters: flawless chemistry, even tho calamity was a dumbass
plot & worldbuilding: never heard of em
plot & worldbuilding: never heard of em
August 24, 2017
I don't even know how to begin to tell you how simply unbelievably amazing this story is! Ms. Lori deserves praise for the remarkable and totally engaging story that whisks you away from the mainstream to a land of magic and peril! Her characters are so exceptionally written and descriptions so fleshed out that they are literally touchable, with palpable emotions and dialogue that is so adorably snarky and firey that you laugh out loud and shake your head in wonder that this is the written word not a movie you are engaged in! I absolutely loved it and cannot wait to read more of her work!
May 3, 2021
This book didn't connect for me. I don't know exactly what it was but I couldn't connect with the characters, the world, or the plot. And I found both the hero and heroine mightily annoying. Everything with the heroine was such a battle. She was indignant at every turn, fighting stupid things while simultaneously endangering herself. It didn't align with the world she lived in. It was like taking Meredith from the parent trap and dropping her into Game of Thrones. Only Meredith is a much more likable and intelligent character than dear Calamity.
October 8, 2016
I tried to swing my leg around him, but he grabbed my thigh in a firm grip. I was mesmerized while I looked at his tan, rough hands wrapped around the smooth skin of my upper thigh. I hated what this man had done to me….but I couldn’t stop my body from reacting to him.
A Girl Named Calamity brings you back into the realms of Willow and Game of Thrones where magic encompasses the earth and evil lurks in the shadows to grab at it. It throws you into a world full of magical beings, assassins, mages, witches, and indescribably beautiful destinations that enthrall you. It is an adventure that keeps you perched on the edge of your seat.
Calamity has lived a peaceful life with her grandmother in the city of Alger. She has always been protected and is quite naïve. Everything changes in one night, a night where she finds out her Mother is a prostitute, a night where she finds out that the silver cuffs she wears are more than just a burden, they are her protection against harmful men and beings that wish her death. Here begins her journey to Undalay City, a journey full of new discoveries, fantastical lands, and an adventure that leads her right into the arms of a dangerous man.
Weston is a Titan with emerald eyes and the wears the brand of a wolf. Calamity is immediately captivated by the man and asks him to become her escort on her journey. At first he resists, but soon she finds herself finding his darkness alluring. The push and pull between these two characters becomes a game of sorts to see how far Weston can be pushed, and how far he is willing to go to keep Calamity by his side. Their journey is one full of death, a seal that if broken can cause chaos, and a magic that she knows nothing about. She finds herself fighting for her life and trying to run from her fate with a man who is all powerful and all consuming.
I have to say that this book hooked me in hook line and sinker. I didn’t want to put it down and most definitely did not want it to end. Ms. Lori most definitely knows how capture to her audience and bring them into cities full of blue fires, pastel colored rain, and lust filled situations that bring danger and wanting. I absolutely cannot wait for the second in this series. I highly recommend this story to those who love to get lost in magic.
A Girl Named Calamity brings you back into the realms of Willow and Game of Thrones where magic encompasses the earth and evil lurks in the shadows to grab at it. It throws you into a world full of magical beings, assassins, mages, witches, and indescribably beautiful destinations that enthrall you. It is an adventure that keeps you perched on the edge of your seat.
Calamity has lived a peaceful life with her grandmother in the city of Alger. She has always been protected and is quite naïve. Everything changes in one night, a night where she finds out her Mother is a prostitute, a night where she finds out that the silver cuffs she wears are more than just a burden, they are her protection against harmful men and beings that wish her death. Here begins her journey to Undalay City, a journey full of new discoveries, fantastical lands, and an adventure that leads her right into the arms of a dangerous man.
Weston is a Titan with emerald eyes and the wears the brand of a wolf. Calamity is immediately captivated by the man and asks him to become her escort on her journey. At first he resists, but soon she finds herself finding his darkness alluring. The push and pull between these two characters becomes a game of sorts to see how far Weston can be pushed, and how far he is willing to go to keep Calamity by his side. Their journey is one full of death, a seal that if broken can cause chaos, and a magic that she knows nothing about. She finds herself fighting for her life and trying to run from her fate with a man who is all powerful and all consuming.
I have to say that this book hooked me in hook line and sinker. I didn’t want to put it down and most definitely did not want it to end. Ms. Lori most definitely knows how capture to her audience and bring them into cities full of blue fires, pastel colored rain, and lust filled situations that bring danger and wanting. I absolutely cannot wait for the second in this series. I highly recommend this story to those who love to get lost in magic.
December 2, 2016
Weston.
Need I say more?
Calamity had me laughing out loud more than a few times, and Weston had me blushing more than I'd like to admit <3
Well written fantasy (wouldn't have guessed it was the author's first book), and I can't wait for the sequel.
Need I say more?
Calamity had me laughing out loud more than a few times, and Weston had me blushing more than I'd like to admit <3
Well written fantasy (wouldn't have guessed it was the author's first book), and I can't wait for the sequel.
March 28, 2017
Thank you to Danielle Lori, the author, for providing me a copy of A Girl Named Calamity in exchange for an honest review.
Thinking back on my experience reading this book, the only way I can really describe it is simple: simple plot, simple sentence structure. The story felt a little disjointed and choppy because of the simple sentence structure in my opinion, but it wasn’t too distracting.
The real distracter was Calamity’s habit of stating sensory details and feelings as fact. I just remember being so frustrated at one point because Calamity stated that she was fearful but never described the feeling, or any other sensory details really, in depth. This really frustrated me, especially since descriptions in stories are what suck me into the story and immerse me in the world. You can’t just state that the character is fearful; give me details that can help me understand the character’s feelings. Otherwise, I’ll lose interest.
But hey, lack of descriptions aside, this book is quite entertaining. I loved the cliff hanger at the end and really want to know what happens!
Thinking back on my experience reading this book, the only way I can really describe it is simple: simple plot, simple sentence structure. The story felt a little disjointed and choppy because of the simple sentence structure in my opinion, but it wasn’t too distracting.
The real distracter was Calamity’s habit of stating sensory details and feelings as fact. I just remember being so frustrated at one point because Calamity stated that she was fearful but never described the feeling, or any other sensory details really, in depth. This really frustrated me, especially since descriptions in stories are what suck me into the story and immerse me in the world. You can’t just state that the character is fearful; give me details that can help me understand the character’s feelings. Otherwise, I’ll lose interest.
But hey, lack of descriptions aside, this book is quite entertaining. I loved the cliff hanger at the end and really want to know what happens!
April 7, 2017
I give this a solid 4.5 stars. I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
At the beginning, we met a farm girl named Calamity (with a name like that, I assumed she wasn't going to have an easy laid back life). She lived with grandmother and was told she had to wear two silver cuffs for protection at all times. So, of course, one of them comes off and she must flee. She doesn't know what she is or the danger she is in, only that she must leave.
At first, I did not really like Calamity. She seemed like the typical 18 year old, strong-willed, protected girl. She manages to ride her horse to another town without running into any catastrophic. While in the town, she is looking for an escort to get to her final destination. She meets Weston, who turns out to be an assassin. Weston and Calamity go through some ups and down through their love hat relationship on their travels.
As the story progressed, I got completely drawn in and really started to love the characters. I love the dynamics of the relationship between Calamity and Weston - it was definitely love-hate and you were right there with Calamity through the whole process.
Then, we get to the end - WOW! I was left wanting more of the story and didn't want to stop!! It is a great book and definitely think it is worth a read. I have to go now and see if I can find out when the next book is coming out!!!
At the beginning, we met a farm girl named Calamity (with a name like that, I assumed she wasn't going to have an easy laid back life). She lived with grandmother and was told she had to wear two silver cuffs for protection at all times. So, of course, one of them comes off and she must flee. She doesn't know what she is or the danger she is in, only that she must leave.
At first, I did not really like Calamity. She seemed like the typical 18 year old, strong-willed, protected girl. She manages to ride her horse to another town without running into any catastrophic. While in the town, she is looking for an escort to get to her final destination. She meets Weston, who turns out to be an assassin. Weston and Calamity go through some ups and down through their love hat relationship on their travels.
As the story progressed, I got completely drawn in and really started to love the characters. I love the dynamics of the relationship between Calamity and Weston - it was definitely love-hate and you were right there with Calamity through the whole process.
Then, we get to the end - WOW! I was left wanting more of the story and didn't want to stop!! It is a great book and definitely think it is worth a read. I have to go now and see if I can find out when the next book is coming out!!!
October 1, 2017
This book was different and a lot of fun to read. Calamity loses everything she has ever known but this does not stop her. She has magic she didn't know about. There is a little bit of many things in this book that makes it good. I don't always like cliffhangers but I knew it was coming on this one.
You should see what you think of this book. * I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review*
You should see what you think of this book. * I received a free copy of this book and this is my honest review*
December 6, 2016
Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars
Thank you to Danielle Lori, the author, for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I'll be frank: I didn't expect the book the be as good as it was. First off, the novel features heavy gore, blood, and explicit sexual content so be aware for younger readers. Anyway, yes. It was fantastic and now I am dying to read the next one (whenever that may be, but hopefully soon).
The main character, appropriately named Calamity, is a naive young woman living in a small town with her grandmother. Everything changes when an incident leaves her with a dangerous fate and she must leave and find protection elsewhere. Calamity is headstrong, but innocent to the world. Afraid, but determined, she is willing to fight to the very end to stay alive.
Her character and development is expertly done. You can see her change from this once naive girl into a hardened woman through her experiences. She runs her mouth and loves to talk even when it perhaps isn't the best time, which causes her misfortune and often in trouble. However, this doesn't make her a stereotypical damsel-in-distress.
Weston is a mysterious (and sexy) assassin who agrees to escort her to her intended destination. He finds her annoying and childish and you can instantly tell this will be a slow burn hate-to-love relationship. Minus the love. Without spoilers, their interactions are amazing—simultaneously intense and humorous. Their verbal and non-verbal communication is fueled by lust and hatred on both ends and I loved every bit of it.
Calamity needs Weston to rescue her a lot. But this is not her being a damsel-in-distress. She despises her weaknesses and is eager to improve herself and learn to protect herself from the many dangers that fall her way. While she often fails, she learns from it and makes her a fighter.
The world-building and fantasy elements were nothing short of creative, unique, and detailed. All of the elements of the world come together so fluidly. My only wish is that I had a map so I could see the layout a bit more clearly because of so many places they go to in the course of the book. It would be a good reference.
Overall, the plot was engaging and tense and occasionally a little confusing. I never knew what would happen next and it kept me on my toes in the best kind of way. I truly really liked this book! And if you read, prepare for one hell of a cliffhanger!
I would highly recommend this book for mature readers of high fantasy and sexy romance. This book reminds me of Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, with a hint of Mistborn and some The Name of the Wind action.
Thank you to Danielle Lori, the author, for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I'll be frank: I didn't expect the book the be as good as it was. First off, the novel features heavy gore, blood, and explicit sexual content so be aware for younger readers. Anyway, yes. It was fantastic and now I am dying to read the next one (whenever that may be, but hopefully soon).
The main character, appropriately named Calamity, is a naive young woman living in a small town with her grandmother. Everything changes when an incident leaves her with a dangerous fate and she must leave and find protection elsewhere. Calamity is headstrong, but innocent to the world. Afraid, but determined, she is willing to fight to the very end to stay alive.
Her character and development is expertly done. You can see her change from this once naive girl into a hardened woman through her experiences. She runs her mouth and loves to talk even when it perhaps isn't the best time, which causes her misfortune and often in trouble. However, this doesn't make her a stereotypical damsel-in-distress.
Weston is a mysterious (and sexy) assassin who agrees to escort her to her intended destination. He finds her annoying and childish and you can instantly tell this will be a slow burn hate-to-love relationship. Minus the love. Without spoilers, their interactions are amazing—simultaneously intense and humorous. Their verbal and non-verbal communication is fueled by lust and hatred on both ends and I loved every bit of it.
"The most enticing smell hit my nose, and I looked down and saw I was wearing Weston's shirt. No, I changed my mind, the smell was horrible."
Calamity needs Weston to rescue her a lot. But this is not her being a damsel-in-distress. She despises her weaknesses and is eager to improve herself and learn to protect herself from the many dangers that fall her way. While she often fails, she learns from it and makes her a fighter.
The world-building and fantasy elements were nothing short of creative, unique, and detailed. All of the elements of the world come together so fluidly. My only wish is that I had a map so I could see the layout a bit more clearly because of so many places they go to in the course of the book. It would be a good reference.
Overall, the plot was engaging and tense and occasionally a little confusing. I never knew what would happen next and it kept me on my toes in the best kind of way. I truly really liked this book! And if you read, prepare for one hell of a cliffhanger!
I would highly recommend this book for mature readers of high fantasy and sexy romance. This book reminds me of Throne of Glass, A Court of Thorns and Roses, with a hint of Mistborn and some The Name of the Wind action.
June 17, 2016
You guys! YOU GUYS! This book is freaking UH-MAY-ZING!
I want to start just squealing about all the things that I liked but I'm going to be an adult and actually tell you something about it first so you know where we're at.
Our main character is... a girl named Calamity. I bet you didn't see that one coming :P
She's lived a very sheltered life with her grandma (translation: she can't fight, is naive and kind of lost out there (which makes her really relateable for me, lol!))
One day she's flung into the real and dangerous world out there (thanks mom), a world that's filled with all kinds of magical creatures... most of which are able to kill you with less effort than it you to read this review.
Calamity knows she needs an escort in her world so she asks a guy that seems like he could protect her but that he could also sort of kind of not be a bad guy. He was a bad guy. And probably one of the most dangerous things in her whole crazy world.
But that's okay because you're going to love him. At least I did.
His name is Weston and he's mysterious and after finishing the book I still don't know what to make of him. I guess that's kind of bad... ish. But I don't care. I decided I'd put my faith in him and like him. And that's final!
He's a killer and he's mean and he's rough and he doesn't care but he's also caring and can be gentle...ish :D Oh I don't know maybe I developed Stockholm syndrome.
Anyway I don't want to give too much away so I'll stop here but eek! It's so exciting and I can blame my sleep deprivation in it.
The ending was BULLSHIT AND I NEED THE SECOND BOOK RIGHT NOW BECAUSE I'M NOT READY FOR IT TO END LIKE THIS AND I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT, OKAY! OKAY!! Why are authors so cruel and leave us with cliffhanger endings? Do you not care about your reader's mental well being at all?!
*deep breath in**deep breath out*
If you're okay with an Inception-like ending, read it. It's really good.
If you're not okay with the Inception-like ending... wait for the second book (thank god there's a second book) to come out and THEN read it.
Book was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review
I want to start just squealing about all the things that I liked but I'm going to be an adult and actually tell you something about it first so you know where we're at.
Our main character is... a girl named Calamity. I bet you didn't see that one coming :P
She's lived a very sheltered life with her grandma (translation: she can't fight, is naive and kind of lost out there (which makes her really relateable for me, lol!))
One day she's flung into the real and dangerous world out there (thanks mom), a world that's filled with all kinds of magical creatures... most of which are able to kill you with less effort than it you to read this review.
Calamity knows she needs an escort in her world so she asks a guy that seems like he could protect her but that he could also sort of kind of not be a bad guy. He was a bad guy. And probably one of the most dangerous things in her whole crazy world.
But that's okay because you're going to love him. At least I did.
His name is Weston and he's mysterious and after finishing the book I still don't know what to make of him. I guess that's kind of bad... ish. But I don't care. I decided I'd put my faith in him and like him. And that's final!
He's a killer and he's mean and he's rough and he doesn't care but he's also caring and can be gentle...ish :D Oh I don't know maybe I developed Stockholm syndrome.
Anyway I don't want to give too much away so I'll stop here but eek! It's so exciting and I can blame my sleep deprivation in it.
The ending was BULLSHIT AND I NEED THE SECOND BOOK RIGHT NOW BECAUSE I'M NOT READY FOR IT TO END LIKE THIS AND I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT, OKAY! OKAY!! Why are authors so cruel and leave us with cliffhanger endings? Do you not care about your reader's mental well being at all?!
*deep breath in**deep breath out*
If you're okay with an Inception-like ending, read it. It's really good.
If you're not okay with the Inception-like ending... wait for the second book (thank god there's a second book) to come out and THEN read it.
Book was kindly provided by author in exchange for an honest review
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