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Otherborn #1
Fire and Bone
“Gossip Girl meets Percy Jackson in the glitz and grit of L.A...."
In Hollywood’s underworld of demigods, druids, and ancient bonds, one girl has a dangerous future.
Sage is eighteen, down on her luck, and struggling to survive on the streets of Los Angeles. Everything changes the night she’s invited to a party — one that turns out to be a trap.
Thrust into a magical world hidden within the City of Angels, Sage discovers that she’s the daughter of a Celtic goddess, with powers that are only in their infancy. Now that she is of age, she’s asked to pledge her service to one of the five deities, all keen on winning her favor by any means possible. She has to admit that she’s tempted — especially when this new life comes with spells, Hollywood glam, and a bodyguard with secrets of his own. Not to mention a prince whose proposal could boost her rank in the Otherworld.
As loyalties shift, and as the two men vie for her attention, Sage tries to figure out who to trust in a realm she doesn’t understand. One thing's for sure: the trap she’s in has bigger claws than she thought. And it’s going to take a lot more than magic for this Celtic demigoddess to make it out alive.
In Hollywood’s underworld of demigods, druids, and ancient bonds, one girl has a dangerous future.
Sage is eighteen, down on her luck, and struggling to survive on the streets of Los Angeles. Everything changes the night she’s invited to a party — one that turns out to be a trap.
Thrust into a magical world hidden within the City of Angels, Sage discovers that she’s the daughter of a Celtic goddess, with powers that are only in their infancy. Now that she is of age, she’s asked to pledge her service to one of the five deities, all keen on winning her favor by any means possible. She has to admit that she’s tempted — especially when this new life comes with spells, Hollywood glam, and a bodyguard with secrets of his own. Not to mention a prince whose proposal could boost her rank in the Otherworld.
As loyalties shift, and as the two men vie for her attention, Sage tries to figure out who to trust in a realm she doesn’t understand. One thing's for sure: the trap she’s in has bigger claws than she thought. And it’s going to take a lot more than magic for this Celtic demigoddess to make it out alive.
407 pages, Paperback
First published February 20, 2018
630 people are currently reading
3658 people want to read
About the author
Rachel A. Marks
12 books531 followersRachel A. Marks is an award-winning author and professional artist, a SoCal girl, cancer survivor, a surfer and dirt-bike rider, chocolate lover and keeper of faerie secrets. She was voted: Most Likely to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse, but hopes she'll never have to test the theory. Her debut series
The Dark Cycle,
described as Dickens' Oliver Twist meets TV's Supernatural, begins with the Amazon Bestseller, DARKNESS BRUTAL.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
March 28, 2018
This urban paranormal fantasy exceeded my expectations. I'm so ready for the next book in this series! I love the different povs through out this book. The different creatures introduced are some we know well and others we may have only heard of and never understood but the author rounds them out into a cohesive world that's magical.
Sage and her friend Ziggy are down on their luck. The wind up at a Halloween party, which is totally out of Sage's comfort zone. She wakes up in an unfamiliar place and immediately thinks she's been taken advantage of. When she finds herself back at the party she unintentionally catches a man on Fire in her rage. Now she's not sure if she's human or not. What is she?
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Sage and her friend Ziggy are down on their luck. The wind up at a Halloween party, which is totally out of Sage's comfort zone. She wakes up in an unfamiliar place and immediately thinks she's been taken advantage of. When she finds herself back at the party she unintentionally catches a man on Fire in her rage. Now she's not sure if she's human or not. What is she?
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 4, 2018
I definitely enjoyed this new mythological fantasy story. It was very original in overall plot. Unlike other similar stories, it did not spend much time with the backstory of our main character. A little more of that might have been nice, but sometimes that comes across as just "filler". I appreciated jumping directly into the present! There is a hint of romance that appealed to my emotional side without detracting from the action.
I recommend this book for fans of magic, sorcery, and adventure. I will definitely be looking for a sequel!
Thanks to Goodreads and publishers for an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I recommend this book for fans of magic, sorcery, and adventure. I will definitely be looking for a sequel!
Thanks to Goodreads and publishers for an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Want to read
October 25, 2017PREORDER IS UP!
FIRE & BONE
________________________
YOU CAN NOW READ THE 1ST CHAPTER!
Here: FIRE & BONE
For the curious ones, here's some artwork and an image compilation that I did for a sneak peek! :)
FIRE & BONE
________________________
YOU CAN NOW READ THE 1ST CHAPTER!
Here: FIRE & BONE
For the curious ones, here's some artwork and an image compilation that I did for a sneak peek! :)
February 15, 2018
When a young homeless girl is invited to a party her whole world implodes. Sage has fandangled her way through the foster system, slept in odd places but had no idea that Celtic mythology was about to come to vivid life. Maybe it's because Sage has seen the seedy side of life, the underbelly of the big city but whatever the reason is she seems to readily accept the idea of demigods, vampires, pixies and druids. Her birthright and heritage pale in comparison to the political intrigue and magic that surrounds her and as much as Sage wants answers the ones she gets are nothing she was ever prepared for . She's expected to choose a house to serve but what if the choice she makes leads her towards a life long since buried. Is Sage really in charge of her own destiny or have events been set in motion before she was even born ?
This story didn't initially grab me and felt a little confusing if I'm brutally honest and it was only because I liked the tortured teen Sage that I continued to read it . I'm so glad I persevered as by a third of the way in so much was fleshed out with explanations about the world that Sage found herself in. That doesn't mean everything is laid out for the reader and it's a story that slowly unravels in the most delightful way. There's almost romance here but it's muddied by an unfortunate triangle. Yet this triangle is clearly integral to the plot as Sage discovers even more about herself and indeed those around her. The ending leaves me wanting to know what happens next as Sage steps forward to take her place amongst the other demigods and demigoddesses.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This story didn't initially grab me and felt a little confusing if I'm brutally honest and it was only because I liked the tortured teen Sage that I continued to read it . I'm so glad I persevered as by a third of the way in so much was fleshed out with explanations about the world that Sage found herself in. That doesn't mean everything is laid out for the reader and it's a story that slowly unravels in the most delightful way. There's almost romance here but it's muddied by an unfortunate triangle. Yet this triangle is clearly integral to the plot as Sage discovers even more about herself and indeed those around her. The ending leaves me wanting to know what happens next as Sage steps forward to take her place amongst the other demigods and demigoddesses.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
January 28, 2018
Rachel Marks hits it out of the park with this tale of adventure, love, and intrigue. I loved the characters and the plot. This is a story of demigods and demigoddesses, pixies, and druids. There is a secret to uncover that rises from the past to reveal and an evil deed that destroyed lives and continues to cast an evil shadow. Sage, our heroine, is brought from her mortal life on the streets to this Otherworld as the daughter of the goddess of fire. Her life is thrown into tumult as she discovers her heritage and claims her life and her new abilities. I was riveted to the story as it played out and it left me wanting more. I'm hoping this is a series and the next book is available soon!
Thanks to Rachel Marks and Skyscape and Two Lions through Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Rachel Marks and Skyscape and Two Lions through Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
May 21, 2018Thank you so much to all the readers of this little story!! Your excited—and at times, panicked—feedback has been super fun. Keep the notes and thoughts coming!
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ON SALE FOR MAY!!!
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ON SALE FOR MAY!!!
February 19, 2018
Same Review Also Posted On My Blog: Dreamy Addictions
*ARC e-copy received from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review*
OMG, This book was sooooo good. It was my first book by Rachel A. Marks and I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. This book was a perfect YA urban fantasy read that left me wanting for more. I enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed ACOTAR. It was a very entertaining UF read that has so many magical beings like demigods, shades, wraiths, druids, vampires, selkies, Pixies, fae etc. I really loved all the aspects of this book. The characters were very intriguing, the magic was interesting, and the plot was engaging through out. This is really a great start for a new series and I want more of it.
Sage is an eighteen year old orphan who lives on the streets of L.A and struggles to survive everyday. Her whole world changes when she and her friend gets invited to a Halloween party but she wasn't aware that it was a trap set for her. She was suddenly thrusted into otherworld that she never knew existed. What makes it even worse is that she was one of them, a celtic demi god that has a power of fire. She was captured and taken to one of the lavish mansions at the uptown L.A. Sage wants to escape from her captors but she has no choice because she has this new power that could turn deadly and dangerous to others if it wasn't controlled properly. She was asked to pledge her service to one of the five deities, the house of Brighid. She was assigned to a new broody bodyguard who harbors so many secrets. She was pursued by a dark handsome prince who thinks that she belongs to him. With so many trying to win her favor, Sage doesn't know whom to trust but in the end, she has to make a decision that'll change her whole fate.
Sage is a strong protagonist and I really loved her character in this book. She's rebellious, sassy, and fun. I enjoyed her character growth throughout the novel. At the beginning she was very confused and also a bit naive about the other world and the Celtic mythology, but as the story progresses, she slowly becomes confident and strong as she gets familiar with everything and slowly gets control of her powers. Faelan, Sage's broody and grumpy bodyguard was a swoon worthy character. This guy has an interesting back story. He is a bounty hunter and reluctantly becomes Sage's mentor. I quite enjoyed the relationship between Sage and Faelan. It was a slow burn romance and I pretty much enjoyed the chemistry between them. I'm totally shipping them! On the other hand, we have dark raven prince, Kieran. I liked his fun and dark personality. I actually hated him at the beginning because of what he does at his first appearance, but slowly he grew on me. Now I'm pretty much confused to whom to root for. As for the secondary characters, I liked Sage's friend Ziggy. I'm pretty mad for what she has done but still I hope to see more of her. I also liked Lailoken, wizard of the wood. He's an old wise monk that turned a bit crazy with time. I didn't liked Marius's daughter Aelia, she's such a spoiled brat and very cunning.
The plot was interesting, mysterious, and engaging through out. I loved the unique elements in the book which makes it different from the other typical YA Urban fantasy reads. From the beginning to the end, I was hooked to the plot. The mystery of the Raven King and Queen Lily in the plot made the story even more interesting. It took some time for me to understand all the Celtic mythology and how everyone is connected to the story. The pacing was good and there were some interesting twists in the plot that I didn't see coming. The writing was addictive and I enjoyed the dual POV(first person). The whole setting was pretty good. I liked how the author mixed the modern world of LA with the magical otherworld and the Celtic mythology. There are actually five powerful houses that controls the otherworld and all of them are based off by their elemental powers. Lyr (water), Arwen(darkness), Cerunnunos (earth), Brighid (fire), Morrigan (Spirit). They're all the descendants of Danu, ancient celtic goddess.
Overall, I loved this book! It was a very entertaining read filled with magic, mythology, political intrigue, action, mystery, and a dash of romance. It's not a total perfection but I absolutely enjoyed it and that's what matters to me most. The book concludes with a surprising twist which left me wanting for more and I really can't wait to read the next book.
*ARC e-copy received from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review*
OMG, This book was sooooo good. It was my first book by Rachel A. Marks and I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. This book was a perfect YA urban fantasy read that left me wanting for more. I enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed ACOTAR. It was a very entertaining UF read that has so many magical beings like demigods, shades, wraiths, druids, vampires, selkies, Pixies, fae etc. I really loved all the aspects of this book. The characters were very intriguing, the magic was interesting, and the plot was engaging through out. This is really a great start for a new series and I want more of it.
Sage is an eighteen year old orphan who lives on the streets of L.A and struggles to survive everyday. Her whole world changes when she and her friend gets invited to a Halloween party but she wasn't aware that it was a trap set for her. She was suddenly thrusted into otherworld that she never knew existed. What makes it even worse is that she was one of them, a celtic demi god that has a power of fire. She was captured and taken to one of the lavish mansions at the uptown L.A. Sage wants to escape from her captors but she has no choice because she has this new power that could turn deadly and dangerous to others if it wasn't controlled properly. She was asked to pledge her service to one of the five deities, the house of Brighid. She was assigned to a new broody bodyguard who harbors so many secrets. She was pursued by a dark handsome prince who thinks that she belongs to him. With so many trying to win her favor, Sage doesn't know whom to trust but in the end, she has to make a decision that'll change her whole fate.
Sage is a strong protagonist and I really loved her character in this book. She's rebellious, sassy, and fun. I enjoyed her character growth throughout the novel. At the beginning she was very confused and also a bit naive about the other world and the Celtic mythology, but as the story progresses, she slowly becomes confident and strong as she gets familiar with everything and slowly gets control of her powers. Faelan, Sage's broody and grumpy bodyguard was a swoon worthy character. This guy has an interesting back story. He is a bounty hunter and reluctantly becomes Sage's mentor. I quite enjoyed the relationship between Sage and Faelan. It was a slow burn romance and I pretty much enjoyed the chemistry between them. I'm totally shipping them! On the other hand, we have dark raven prince, Kieran. I liked his fun and dark personality. I actually hated him at the beginning because of what he does at his first appearance, but slowly he grew on me. Now I'm pretty much confused to whom to root for. As for the secondary characters, I liked Sage's friend Ziggy. I'm pretty mad for what she has done but still I hope to see more of her. I also liked Lailoken, wizard of the wood. He's an old wise monk that turned a bit crazy with time. I didn't liked Marius's daughter Aelia, she's such a spoiled brat and very cunning.
The plot was interesting, mysterious, and engaging through out. I loved the unique elements in the book which makes it different from the other typical YA Urban fantasy reads. From the beginning to the end, I was hooked to the plot. The mystery of the Raven King and Queen Lily in the plot made the story even more interesting. It took some time for me to understand all the Celtic mythology and how everyone is connected to the story. The pacing was good and there were some interesting twists in the plot that I didn't see coming. The writing was addictive and I enjoyed the dual POV(first person). The whole setting was pretty good. I liked how the author mixed the modern world of LA with the magical otherworld and the Celtic mythology. There are actually five powerful houses that controls the otherworld and all of them are based off by their elemental powers. Lyr (water), Arwen(darkness), Cerunnunos (earth), Brighid (fire), Morrigan (Spirit). They're all the descendants of Danu, ancient celtic goddess.
Overall, I loved this book! It was a very entertaining read filled with magic, mythology, political intrigue, action, mystery, and a dash of romance. It's not a total perfection but I absolutely enjoyed it and that's what matters to me most. The book concludes with a surprising twist which left me wanting for more and I really can't wait to read the next book.
March 27, 2018
This was a good story I was not expecting it to be how it was. I kinda liked that I had no idea what the heck was happening and where the story went. A homeless girl who grew up on the streets makes friends and gets to go to a party where she can eat, rest and shower. Her life completely changes that night when she discovers she’s a demigod. Faellen becomes her protector and her love as her power grows everyone wants a piece of her. And she has to figure out why she’s having dreams that are her sisters memories. The story takes a crazy turn and it leaves it open for another book. I can’t wait to read it
September 17, 2019
I really enjoyed this one and I can't wait for the sequel, I hope it doesn't spiral out and wipe away Sage because that would be annoying.
December 24, 2017
I came across this book by accident and I am SO EXCITED THAT I DID. I love a good YA fantasy read and this one grabbed from page one and I was a goner.
Tortured teen who doesn't know who she really is? YES PLEASE
Give me all the angst and all the potential chaos and I am for it. We have not only one BUT TWO brooding awesome guys in this book and I am honestly shipping both of them. I know, its terrible. I can't help it though. You will see.
This book grabbed me like ACOTAR did. I instantly loved the storyline and was all for getting lost in it. If you like YA reads like The Iron Queen, Any Melissa Marr or Tempestuous, you will love this.
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Buy on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2B0nfFm
Synopsis:
“Gossip Girl meets Percy Jackson in the glitz and grit of L.A...."
In Hollywood’s underworld of demigods, druids, and ancient bonds, one girl has a dangerous future.
Sage is eighteen, down on her luck, and struggling to survive on the streets of Los Angeles. Everything changes the night she’s invited to a party—one that turns out to be a trap.
Thrust into a magical world hidden within the City of Angels, Sage discovers that she’s the daughter of a Celtic goddess, with powers that are only in their infancy. Now that she is of age, she’s asked to pledge her service to one of the five deities, all keen on winning her favor by any means possible. She has to admit that she’s tempted—especially when this new life comes with spells, Hollywood glam, and a bodyguard with secrets of his own. Not to mention a prince whose proposal could boost her rank in the Otherworld.
As loyalties shift, and as the two men vie for her attention, Sage tries to figure out who to trust in a realm she doesn’t understand. One thing's for sure: the trap she’s in has bigger claws than she thought. And it’s going to take a lot more than magic for this Celtic demigoddess to make it out alive.
February 14, 2018
Ok, anything which blends Gossip Girl and Percy Jackson in a tagline is sure to get my attention, and as soon as I started reading this I was delighted to realise it lived up to the legacy of both of those things!
Full of mythology, mystery, excitement and action, this is an incredible start to what I hope will become a much loved series.
The plot was interesting, and had lots of unique elements to set it apart from other fantasy ya books.
I can’t wait to recommend this to people!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Full of mythology, mystery, excitement and action, this is an incredible start to what I hope will become a much loved series.
The plot was interesting, and had lots of unique elements to set it apart from other fantasy ya books.
I can’t wait to recommend this to people!
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
June 6, 2018
Review in English:
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I would like to thank NetGalley and Publisher Skyscape and Two Lions again for this incredible opportunity.
Publication date: February 20th, 2018
Sage is a girl who didn't have an easy life. Daughter of a mother with drug problems, she spent her entire life being thrown between foster homes.
Until one day she is taken by two friends to a party. Initially, this seems to be an opportunity to be able to eat something and rest for a few hours, but it becomes much more than that. Sage finds herself surrounded by mystical beings and discovers that she is, in fact, the daughter of a Celtic goddess of fire.
In the days that follow, her life turns upside down. Apparently this fire goddess, Brighid, is very reclusive, and she rarely has daughters. Her first daughter was very powerful, but also became known as crazy and murderous. Is this also Sage's destiny?
We follow the point of view of Sage and another incredible character: Faelan. Faelan ends up being given the task of guiding our young heroine in this new world. And he doesn't seem to like it that much. Of course things are not that simple. To make things even more exciting, we have another character, Kieran, known as the Black Prince, who seems to want to kill or seduce our heroine. We don't know his true intentions.
And I can only say that. I can't explain how much I enjoyed this story without spoilers. The characters are very well written and the mythology is very well explained. You feel immersed from the first moment, trying to understand everything that is happening. Also, since the history happens nowadays, all those beings who have lived for hundreds of years are surrounded by technology, give parties, and everything fits wonderfully well.
And there's a hidden story behind it all. An old story so beautiful and sad that it makes me want to read a book of this story alone.
The only thing I have to complain about this book is the cover. The cover of this book, in my opinion, is ugly and generic. Very hardly I would choose this book by its cover. If the publisher accepts suggestions, I suggest you change the cover.
Anyway, I recommend this book for sure. I would love to have the opportunity to read the other books when they come out.
Review with spoilers:
--------------
Resenha em português:
Recebi acesso antecipado a este livro através da NetGalley em troca da minha opinião honesta. Gostaria de agradecer novamente à NetGalley e à Editora Skyscape and Two Lions por esta incrível oportunidade.
Data de publicação: 20 de fevereiro de 2018
Esse livro foi fantástico! Ainda estou me recuperando de toda experiência. Mas vamos à sinopse:
Sage é uma garota que não teve uma vida fácil. Filha de uma mãe com problemas de drogas, ela passou a vida sendo jogada entre lares adotivos.
Até que um dia ela é levada por duas amigas a uma festa. Inicialmente, essa parece ser uma oportunidade de poder comer algo e descansar por algumas horas, mas se torna muito mais do que isso. Sage se vê rodeada por seres místicos e descobre que é, na verdade, filha de uma deusa celta do fogo.
Nos dias que se seguem, a vida dela vira de cabeça para baixo. Aparentemente essa deusa do fogo, Brighid, é muito reclusa, e é raro ela ter filhas. Sua primeira filha foi muito poderosa, mas também ficou conhecida como louca e assassina. Será que esse é também o destino de Sage?
Acompanhamos o ponto de vista de Sage e de outro personagem incrível. Faelan acaba recebendo a tarefa de guiar nossa jovem heroína nesse mundo novo. E ele não parece gostar tanto assim dessa tarefa. E claro que as coisas não são tão simples assim. Para deixar tudo ainda mais emocionante, temos mais um personagem, Kieran, conhecido como o Príncipe Negro, o qual parece querer matar ou conquistar nossa heroína. Não sabemos suas verdadeiras intenções.
E só posso dizer isso. Não tem como explicar o quanto gostei dessa história sem dar spoilers. Os personagens são muito bem escritos e a mitologia é muito bem explicada. Você se sente imerso desde o primeiro momento, tentando entender tudo o que está acontecendo. Além disso, como a história se passa nos dias atuais, todos esses seres que vivem há centenas de anos estão rodeados de tecnologia, dão festas, e tudo se encaixa maravilhosamente bem.
E há uma história oculta por trás disso tudo. Uma história antiga tão bonita e triste que dá vontade de ler um livro só dessa história.
A única coisa que tenho para reclamar é essa capa. A capa desse livro, na minha opinião, é feia e genérica. Muito dificilmente eu escolheria esse livro pela capa. Se a editora aceitar sugestões, sugiro que troquem a capa.
Enfim, recomendo esse livro com certeza. Gostaria muito de ter a oportunidade de ler a continuação quando sair.
Resenha com spoilers:
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. I would like to thank NetGalley and Publisher Skyscape and Two Lions again for this incredible opportunity.
Publication date: February 20th, 2018
Sage is a girl who didn't have an easy life. Daughter of a mother with drug problems, she spent her entire life being thrown between foster homes.
Until one day she is taken by two friends to a party. Initially, this seems to be an opportunity to be able to eat something and rest for a few hours, but it becomes much more than that. Sage finds herself surrounded by mystical beings and discovers that she is, in fact, the daughter of a Celtic goddess of fire.
In the days that follow, her life turns upside down. Apparently this fire goddess, Brighid, is very reclusive, and she rarely has daughters. Her first daughter was very powerful, but also became known as crazy and murderous. Is this also Sage's destiny?
We follow the point of view of Sage and another incredible character: Faelan. Faelan ends up being given the task of guiding our young heroine in this new world. And he doesn't seem to like it that much. Of course things are not that simple. To make things even more exciting, we have another character, Kieran, known as the Black Prince, who seems to want to kill or seduce our heroine. We don't know his true intentions.
And I can only say that. I can't explain how much I enjoyed this story without spoilers. The characters are very well written and the mythology is very well explained. You feel immersed from the first moment, trying to understand everything that is happening. Also, since the history happens nowadays, all those beings who have lived for hundreds of years are surrounded by technology, give parties, and everything fits wonderfully well.
And there's a hidden story behind it all. An old story so beautiful and sad that it makes me want to read a book of this story alone.
The only thing I have to complain about this book is the cover. The cover of this book, in my opinion, is ugly and generic. Very hardly I would choose this book by its cover. If the publisher accepts suggestions, I suggest you change the cover.
Anyway, I recommend this book for sure. I would love to have the opportunity to read the other books when they come out.
Review with spoilers:
--------------
Resenha em português:
Recebi acesso antecipado a este livro através da NetGalley em troca da minha opinião honesta. Gostaria de agradecer novamente à NetGalley e à Editora Skyscape and Two Lions por esta incrível oportunidade.
Data de publicação: 20 de fevereiro de 2018
Esse livro foi fantástico! Ainda estou me recuperando de toda experiência. Mas vamos à sinopse:
Sage é uma garota que não teve uma vida fácil. Filha de uma mãe com problemas de drogas, ela passou a vida sendo jogada entre lares adotivos.
Até que um dia ela é levada por duas amigas a uma festa. Inicialmente, essa parece ser uma oportunidade de poder comer algo e descansar por algumas horas, mas se torna muito mais do que isso. Sage se vê rodeada por seres místicos e descobre que é, na verdade, filha de uma deusa celta do fogo.
Nos dias que se seguem, a vida dela vira de cabeça para baixo. Aparentemente essa deusa do fogo, Brighid, é muito reclusa, e é raro ela ter filhas. Sua primeira filha foi muito poderosa, mas também ficou conhecida como louca e assassina. Será que esse é também o destino de Sage?
Acompanhamos o ponto de vista de Sage e de outro personagem incrível. Faelan acaba recebendo a tarefa de guiar nossa jovem heroína nesse mundo novo. E ele não parece gostar tanto assim dessa tarefa. E claro que as coisas não são tão simples assim. Para deixar tudo ainda mais emocionante, temos mais um personagem, Kieran, conhecido como o Príncipe Negro, o qual parece querer matar ou conquistar nossa heroína. Não sabemos suas verdadeiras intenções.
E só posso dizer isso. Não tem como explicar o quanto gostei dessa história sem dar spoilers. Os personagens são muito bem escritos e a mitologia é muito bem explicada. Você se sente imerso desde o primeiro momento, tentando entender tudo o que está acontecendo. Além disso, como a história se passa nos dias atuais, todos esses seres que vivem há centenas de anos estão rodeados de tecnologia, dão festas, e tudo se encaixa maravilhosamente bem.
E há uma história oculta por trás disso tudo. Uma história antiga tão bonita e triste que dá vontade de ler um livro só dessa história.
A única coisa que tenho para reclamar é essa capa. A capa desse livro, na minha opinião, é feia e genérica. Muito dificilmente eu escolheria esse livro pela capa. Se a editora aceitar sugestões, sugiro que troquem a capa.
Enfim, recomendo esse livro com certeza. Gostaria muito de ter a oportunidade de ler a continuação quando sair.
Resenha com spoilers:
December 5, 2018
Sage is a young homeless girl who has never fit in anywhere. She goes to a party in the hopes of a meal and possibly a shower, but she is captured by Faelan instead. He is some kind of hunter and tells her that she is a demigoddess. Her powers of fire are unlocked while Faelan tries to explain their world and win her trust. He hopes she will choose to stay within his House of power once she manifests fully, but there are other Houses that are interested in her - some want her to join them, some want to harm her. Sage also seems to have memories that don't belong to her but might be the key to solving a mystery that occurred a few hundred years ago.
This was a great first book. It took a little while to build the world but once it got going, it was great. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Faelan and Sage. Things got complicated toward the end as the true natures of some of the characters were revealed. The ending was a surprise and makes me wish the next book was available ASAP to read.
This was a great first book. It took a little while to build the world but once it got going, it was great. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Faelan and Sage. Things got complicated toward the end as the true natures of some of the characters were revealed. The ending was a surprise and makes me wish the next book was available ASAP to read.
March 11, 2018
Sage is homeless and doesn't have anywhere to go. When she's at a party one night she's being taken. Sage is part of a magical world and is the daughter of a Celtic goddess. She was hidden for a long time, but her powers are about to arise. Sage's skills evolve around fire, but she has no training and doesn't know how to keep them under control. Sage is almost ready to Emerge and then she has to pledge herself to one of the five deities. Because Sage is powerful they're all interested in her. However, not everyone is trying to look out for her and Sage can't rely on anyone doing something for her with the best intentions. She has no idea who she can trust.
Faelan has promised to protect Sage. He's an old soul in a young body and has plenty of experience, but his powers are diminished and he can't keep every situation that arises under control. Faelan isn't supposed to feel something for Sage, but whenever he's near her his heart gives him a different message. He isn't the only one who's trying to get her attention though, someone else wants the exact same thing. Sage is constantly in danger and she's part of a complicated game she doesn't understand. Past and present are about to become one and she's at the center of it. Who can she go to for help and what should she decide when the time comes to choose?
Fire and Bone is a gripping story. Sage is strong and incredibly kind. She's powerful, but she's afraid to use her gifts, because she doesn't want to harm anyone. This makes her extra vulnerable. She's inevitably part of a world she doesn't understand and she has very little time to learn. Finding out if she'd be able to stay alive kept me on the edge of my seat. Faelan wants to protect her as well as he can, but this task is difficult. There are so many enemies and secrets that were hidden for years are about to come to the surface, so he has to keep anticipating, but can never fully predict the impact of a situation. They're both in over their heads, but they never give up. They're resilient and love is what keeps them going, which is a beautiful thing. I really loved their complicated connection and enjoyed every page of Fire and Bone because of it.
Rachel A. Marks has fabulous world building skills. Her detailed explanations of families, rules and history are all equally fascinating and they're making it possible to fully understand the story. I could easily visualize everything she writes about and I love it when an author makes a story come to life so well. Rachel A. Marks has written a book filled with adventure, feuds, battles and trickery, which is exactly the kind of fantasy I like. Fire and Bone is an amazing story that intrigued me from beginning to end. I highly recommend this fantastic enchanting book.
Faelan has promised to protect Sage. He's an old soul in a young body and has plenty of experience, but his powers are diminished and he can't keep every situation that arises under control. Faelan isn't supposed to feel something for Sage, but whenever he's near her his heart gives him a different message. He isn't the only one who's trying to get her attention though, someone else wants the exact same thing. Sage is constantly in danger and she's part of a complicated game she doesn't understand. Past and present are about to become one and she's at the center of it. Who can she go to for help and what should she decide when the time comes to choose?
Fire and Bone is a gripping story. Sage is strong and incredibly kind. She's powerful, but she's afraid to use her gifts, because she doesn't want to harm anyone. This makes her extra vulnerable. She's inevitably part of a world she doesn't understand and she has very little time to learn. Finding out if she'd be able to stay alive kept me on the edge of my seat. Faelan wants to protect her as well as he can, but this task is difficult. There are so many enemies and secrets that were hidden for years are about to come to the surface, so he has to keep anticipating, but can never fully predict the impact of a situation. They're both in over their heads, but they never give up. They're resilient and love is what keeps them going, which is a beautiful thing. I really loved their complicated connection and enjoyed every page of Fire and Bone because of it.
Rachel A. Marks has fabulous world building skills. Her detailed explanations of families, rules and history are all equally fascinating and they're making it possible to fully understand the story. I could easily visualize everything she writes about and I love it when an author makes a story come to life so well. Rachel A. Marks has written a book filled with adventure, feuds, battles and trickery, which is exactly the kind of fantasy I like. Fire and Bone is an amazing story that intrigued me from beginning to end. I highly recommend this fantastic enchanting book.
April 20, 2018
DNF 25%
Considero que un 25% de un libro (once capítulos en este caso) son suficientes para hacerse una idea del estilo de la narración y la calidad general del mismo, así que lo dejo aquí.
Reconozco que me llamó la atención este título tanto por la descripción que lo relaciona con Percy Jackson como por la cantidad de reseñas positivas que tiene, pero ahora veo que cometí el error de no verificar el origen de dichas reseñas antes de escoger esta lectura. Prácticamente todas ellas empiezan con un "recibí este libro gratis en Netgalley". Y ahí empieza el problema, no porque haya absolutamente nada de malo en la plataforma Netgalley ni en recibir libros gratuitamente para reseñarlos, sino en el hecho de que casi todas las valoraciones son de usuarios que han recibido el libro para reseñar y, por tanto, en su mayoría tienden a juzgar más positivamente la obra en agradecimiento por el "regalo".
No voy a decir que este libro sea horrible o tenga un estilo narrativo amateur y tal cantidad de errores que nunca debería haber salido de la imprenta (ejem, Besos entre líneas), porque no es así. Simplemente creo que esta obra no es más que un intento de feminizar la historia de Magnus Chase/Percy Jackson, tratando de imitar descaradamente el estilo narrativo de Riordan y fallando estrepitosamente en el intento.
Nuestra protagonista es una adolescente vagabunda que vive en las calles de una ciudad americana con la única compañía de unas amigas que, sin ella saberlo, están al servicio de los dioses y la protegen. Un buen día (de la manera más abrupta y absurda, por cierto) nuestra Mary Sue es informada de que es una semidiosa y llevada a un lugar en el que estará con otros de su "casta" y aprenderá lo que necesita para controlar su poder. (Si esto no es calcadito al inicio de la saga de Magnus Chase y los dioses de Asgard, no sé qué es.)
Los personajes están muy pobremente perfilados, siendo difícil distinguir entre los dos narradores que se alternan capítulos (Sage aka Mary-Sue-Magnus-Chase y Faelan aka the valkyrie-like-hunter). Nuestra protagonista es una sosa sobreactuada que deja a la Bella de Crepúsculo en buen lugar, y su contrapartida, Faelan, es el típico guerrero que ha vivido cientos de años pero se empeña en mostrarnos que es medio idiota y todo le molesta pero es demasiado cobarde para protestar y, horror, del tipo de personajes pesados que narran mentalmente con detalle el por qué de todas sus acciones o reacciones en un mal disimulado info dumping.
Por si fuera poco, la acción es incoherente, precipitada y anticlimática, y las reacciones de todos los personajes son sobreactuadas y fieles a todos los clichés imaginables. Nuestra Mary Sue en particular, es de lo más espesita y contradictoria, ya que un lado no opone ninguna resistencia cuando descubre que ha sido drogada y que la van a llevar a vayaustedasaberdónde para contener su poder ("Hola, buenorro, ¿qué dices? ¿que no soy una mendiga sino una semidiosa con mucho poder y por mi bien me vas a llevar a no sé dónde para que elija a qué bando divino jurar lealtad? Suena guay, venga, vamos") y por otro reacciona como una histérica ante cualquier situación inusual en ese sitio raro en el que conviven semidioses, hadas, sombras y no se qué más. Pfff qué pereza.
Quizá si no se hubiera tratado de copiar, sin éxito, el estilo narrativo irónico de Riordan, y la historia fuera un poco más coherente y pausada en el inicio, podría haber sido una lectura divertida.
Moraleja: no os fieis si un libro tiene buena calificación en goodreads cuando esas valoraciones son todas de usuarios que han recibido el libro gratis.
February 20, 2018
*Source* NetGalley
*Genre* YA, Fantasy, Paranormal
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Fire and Bone is the first installment in author Rachel Marks Otherborn series. 18-year old Sage has spent an enormous amount of time on the streets of Los Angeles scrambling to keep herself fed and safe while running away from foster homes. Sage loves books with legends, & Gods, & cursed Kings, & castles. After being invited to a party where there is supposed to be plenty of food, Sage wakes to the reality that she has stepped into another world that has apparently been there the entire time.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* YA, Fantasy, Paranormal
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Fire and Bone is the first installment in author Rachel Marks Otherborn series. 18-year old Sage has spent an enormous amount of time on the streets of Los Angeles scrambling to keep herself fed and safe while running away from foster homes. Sage loves books with legends, & Gods, & cursed Kings, & castles. After being invited to a party where there is supposed to be plenty of food, Sage wakes to the reality that she has stepped into another world that has apparently been there the entire time.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
October 22, 2018
I really loved this book! It was so exciting from the first page and instantly connected with the characters.
May 16, 2018
A homeless girl after living in the foster care and after her drug addicted mother finds she is not who she thinks she is. She is a demigod. And when she looks at herself, wasting away, she kind of says “yeah right, prove it!”. She finds herself in a hot mess with fires starting and strange dreams of a man with a raven who is cold yet who loves the woman! Sage even finds herself surrounded by other impossible people, like shades, wraiths, druids and other demigods who have different powers and “feed” off others. Not in the killing way, but it could happen. And money is plenty in this life. Not what Sage wants.
Confused yet? Well lets just add that Sage is powerful and everyone wants the newblood on their team! They send her gifts so she will come be a part of their team in this game of Life! Sage really wants no part of it. But she kind of is falling for her protector, Faelon. But she also seems to find some familiarity with Prince Kieran. She finds herself drawn to him as well. She is a hot mess literally as she can start fires just with her temper.
The book helps you understand all that I wrote in those 2 paragraphs. It’s a lot for Sage to wrap around her brain too! But Sage is a go getter and she finally decides to take charge of her life and in the end, she makes a startling choice. I need the next book now because I want to know what is going to happen with Faelan, Kieran, Lily and others in the next book.
This book is not a light read. It is intense in action, mystery, finding where you belong and maybe finding a little bit of your heart! There is some sadness in the book too. I find myself confused at the author’s stands on sex? It seems to be freely given, the more skin you touch the more the recipient can feed off to rejuvenate themselves. Then we have Faelon who has made a vow of celibacy. So I feel mixed messages with it all. And there is a good measure of violence with the way the shades feed off of people- they literally tear them apart when they feed. But the writing is good and I want to know what happens next!!
Confused yet? Well lets just add that Sage is powerful and everyone wants the newblood on their team! They send her gifts so she will come be a part of their team in this game of Life! Sage really wants no part of it. But she kind of is falling for her protector, Faelon. But she also seems to find some familiarity with Prince Kieran. She finds herself drawn to him as well. She is a hot mess literally as she can start fires just with her temper.
The book helps you understand all that I wrote in those 2 paragraphs. It’s a lot for Sage to wrap around her brain too! But Sage is a go getter and she finally decides to take charge of her life and in the end, she makes a startling choice. I need the next book now because I want to know what is going to happen with Faelan, Kieran, Lily and others in the next book.
This book is not a light read. It is intense in action, mystery, finding where you belong and maybe finding a little bit of your heart! There is some sadness in the book too. I find myself confused at the author’s stands on sex? It seems to be freely given, the more skin you touch the more the recipient can feed off to rejuvenate themselves. Then we have Faelon who has made a vow of celibacy. So I feel mixed messages with it all. And there is a good measure of violence with the way the shades feed off of people- they literally tear them apart when they feed. But the writing is good and I want to know what happens next!!
May 1, 2018
I received this book for free from Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I can't tell if I'm actually disappointed with Fire and Bone or if I feel disappointed with the book.
I started Rachel A. Marks's new book right after I finished The Heart Forger , and I was very much ruined for other books at the moment in time because Rin Chupeco's book was that good.
Fire and Bone is the first novel in Marks's Otherborn series, which is based on Celtic mythology and set in modern-day Los Angeles. The story follows Sage, who struggles to live on her own in the streets and has the urge to burn things until she finds out she is the daughter of a Celtic goddess.
Sage is very independent - we've got the kid goes through a rough childhood and gets shifted around from foster home to foster home until they say, "Screw it!" and go off on their own (because who has time for rough homes?) trope. The one friend in her life is Ziggy, at least until she is plucked into the Otherworld where she eventually has to pledge her allegiance to one of the five main deities, known as houses.
I'm a huge fan of books that focus on character, plot and action, so Fire and Bone, being the first in a series, won't be a novel that I will enjoy as much compared to my reactions when (and if because so many books) I read the sequels. This novel is more of a setup - there is a lot of information about the world (though certainly not an information overload) that is revealed as Sage navigates the Otherworld and is getting attention from her bodyguard and a prince. She also tries to uncover the past that is revealed to her through dreams.
There's no surprise that there seems to be a love triangle of sorts that will most likely reveal itself in future novels. The interactions between Kieran, Faelan and Sage are telltale signs that there is probably going to be one, though I could be wrong. Assuming this will be a love triangle though, I'm not shipping any of them and feel it is out of place to the overall plot of the story.
I love the side characters Marks introduces to us in Fire and Bone. It was hard to like the characters early on, but as I continued reading the book, some of the characters had hilarious lines. I'm curious how the characters will develop in book two, so character development will be one of the things I'll be looking forward to.
Along with character development, I'm looking forward to how the plot will unfold. While a major plot point was predictable, I did not guess the ending of the story, and I want to KNOW what happens next. If anything, Otherborn #2 will tear my heart to pieces and ruin me for whatever book is read next like The Heart Forger did.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
January 30, 2018
Wow! I really enjoyed my time while reading this story. Marks takes the readers on a crazy adventure filled with mythology and fantasy. Just when you think you have everything figured out, she rips the rug out from right under you.
I loved that the author mixed modern day with a lot of heavy mythology. You have all these houses vying for the young blood. With Sage on their side, she would type the scales of power and make one house more powerful than the others. There were shades (vampires), wraiths, demigods with varying powers, pixies, and druids. I really appreciated the fact that the author didn't info dump on us in the beginning. Instead, we learn as we go, just like Sage does.
Speaking of Sage, I really liked her character. Sage is not a pushover. She may be completely out of her element with everything going on, but she never fully submits to what's going on around her. She doesn't trust easily, and she isn't afraid to voice her opinion. I loved that she didn't accept everything at face value and wasn't afraid to put her foot down in order to get answers.
We also get the POV of her mentor and protector, Faelan. He was a surly character at first given the fact that his job was only to find Sage and bring her in, not be her babysitter and teacher. However, the more time he spends with her, you can see him start to lighten up and let her in. At first you have no clue what he is, other than the fact that he's super powerful. I mean, he's able to withstand her flame, his suite is a legit forest, and he heals and feeds by pulling the life from plants. He was definitely an interesting character and I really appreciated that the author chose to give him a voice.
While a lot of the story is of Sage figuring out how to handle her power, learning about the new world she's not part of, dodging attacks from one of the houses, and having to figure out what house to align herself with. There wasn't really a dull moment to this story. There was always something going on.
I will be honest and say that I'm not quite sure about the potential love triangle... or hexagon if you will, that looks like it may take place. A lot of the side parts of the story now make sense, and you build a connection between these characters because of it, but I'm just not on board with it. Although, nothing is definite yet, so I suppose I will just have to wait and see what the author has in store next for Sage.
I was completely wrapped up in the story right from the moment we meet Sage on the streets. I had a hard time putting it down as she's kidnapped, told she's a demigoddess, and starts setting things on fire by accident. I enjoyed reading about all the mythology the author incorporated into the story. I think for anyone looking for a clean new adult urban fantasy (I know this is being classified as YA but Sage is 18 years old), then you should really pick up this book.
Favorite quote...
"If you're going to make a splash, you may as well jump."
I loved that the author mixed modern day with a lot of heavy mythology. You have all these houses vying for the young blood. With Sage on their side, she would type the scales of power and make one house more powerful than the others. There were shades (vampires), wraiths, demigods with varying powers, pixies, and druids. I really appreciated the fact that the author didn't info dump on us in the beginning. Instead, we learn as we go, just like Sage does.
Speaking of Sage, I really liked her character. Sage is not a pushover. She may be completely out of her element with everything going on, but she never fully submits to what's going on around her. She doesn't trust easily, and she isn't afraid to voice her opinion. I loved that she didn't accept everything at face value and wasn't afraid to put her foot down in order to get answers.
We also get the POV of her mentor and protector, Faelan. He was a surly character at first given the fact that his job was only to find Sage and bring her in, not be her babysitter and teacher. However, the more time he spends with her, you can see him start to lighten up and let her in. At first you have no clue what he is, other than the fact that he's super powerful. I mean, he's able to withstand her flame, his suite is a legit forest, and he heals and feeds by pulling the life from plants. He was definitely an interesting character and I really appreciated that the author chose to give him a voice.
While a lot of the story is of Sage figuring out how to handle her power, learning about the new world she's not part of, dodging attacks from one of the houses, and having to figure out what house to align herself with. There wasn't really a dull moment to this story. There was always something going on.
I will be honest and say that I'm not quite sure about the potential love triangle... or hexagon if you will, that looks like it may take place. A lot of the side parts of the story now make sense, and you build a connection between these characters because of it, but I'm just not on board with it. Although, nothing is definite yet, so I suppose I will just have to wait and see what the author has in store next for Sage.
I was completely wrapped up in the story right from the moment we meet Sage on the streets. I had a hard time putting it down as she's kidnapped, told she's a demigoddess, and starts setting things on fire by accident. I enjoyed reading about all the mythology the author incorporated into the story. I think for anyone looking for a clean new adult urban fantasy (I know this is being classified as YA but Sage is 18 years old), then you should really pick up this book.
Favorite quote...
"If you're going to make a splash, you may as well jump."
February 4, 2018
This is one of those books that you devour in one setting, I couldn't put it down even though I was bleary-eyed.
Sage is a young girl whose mother was an addict and instead of staying in the foster system she chooses to live on the streets with her person she considers her best friend. They've been befriended by a woman who works at a restaurant and gives them food instead of throwing it away as told to by her boss. One night she invites them to a party, Sage really doesn't want to go but she is promised a hot shower and decides go just to get clean with hot water. Turns out it's a trap, most of the guests? are Otherworders and they need Sage because she is a princess who doesn't know who or what she is. After she accidentally hurts Ben one of the guests she agrees to go along and see what she can learn; she earns plenty some good and some bad.
This is an amazing story, I love the Irish mythology and the authors creation of the Otherworlders who inhabit it without humans knowing. There are some truly evil beings but there are also good ones and sometimes you aren't sure of some characters motives. While I love this book and definitely want to read the next book, this is one of the reasons that I prefer to start a series once all the books are released; I dislike CH and having to wait months/years to finish a series that I like.
4.75/5 STARS: **I received a free digital ARC in exchange for a honest, unbiased review. I sincerely thank the author and/or publisher for providing an ARC through NetGalley,.**
Sage is a young girl whose mother was an addict and instead of staying in the foster system she chooses to live on the streets with her person she considers her best friend. They've been befriended by a woman who works at a restaurant and gives them food instead of throwing it away as told to by her boss. One night she invites them to a party, Sage really doesn't want to go but she is promised a hot shower and decides go just to get clean with hot water. Turns out it's a trap, most of the guests? are Otherworders and they need Sage because she is a princess who doesn't know who or what she is. After she accidentally hurts Ben one of the guests she agrees to go along and see what she can learn; she earns plenty some good and some bad.
This is an amazing story, I love the Irish mythology and the authors creation of the Otherworlders who inhabit it without humans knowing. There are some truly evil beings but there are also good ones and sometimes you aren't sure of some characters motives. While I love this book and definitely want to read the next book, this is one of the reasons that I prefer to start a series once all the books are released; I dislike CH and having to wait months/years to finish a series that I like.
4.75/5 STARS: **I received a free digital ARC in exchange for a honest, unbiased review. I sincerely thank the author and/or publisher for providing an ARC through NetGalley,.**
February 19, 2018
While I have run across Celtic lore in Urban Fantasy, it's not all that common, so that combined with my love of the genre made me eager to read this one. Unfortunately, that eager attitude didn't last long. The story started out well enough and the premise is great, but the execution of that premise was not so great. World building is an important aspect of UF and there is quite a lot of that here, but at times it tends to get bogged down in the details. The author was so overly descriptive that I was tempted to skim more often than not throughout this lengthy tale. Setting aside the fact that many of them are more like vampires than gods or demigods, the characters are a hodge podge of developed and interesting to not so much of either. Speaking of characters, our heroine, and I use that term loosely, is not very likable or interesting. She has an intriguing affinity for fire, but she proves over and over that she isn't the sharpest tool in the shed. She's kidnapped and thrown into a world full of things she doesn't understand, but she just seems to go with the flow and manages to get herself into situations where someone has to come to the rescue. Unfortunately, Sage isn't the only female in this story that with negative traits. The story is geared toward teens and young adults, but in a day when strong female characters are so needed, I would have a hard time recommending this one to any teen. There is some action and even a handful of interesting characters, but in the end, there were just too many negatives to make me want to read more about this world.
December 8, 2017
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for my honest review.
I'm torn. I just read a book where I adored the characters, the plot and everything about it. There is a slight love traingle within the book as well, and between the two men, I want both. (This is not one of those types of books though, so I have to choose.)
Sara, the heroine, is the clueless human who becomes more. She's fun and sassy, but the author remains true to her roots, not letting her get jaded quickly. Also, her roots also allow that the character is given a heart we can all relate to, while viewing the horrific world of the fae and irish gods at the same time.
Her two guys? One, he's sweet and a little bossy. I really like him and he's strong enough to fight for Sara. The other is a jerk. He's ... well, you have to read it to understand my feelings for him. Just, I'm torn between the two.
My favorite part, though, is the implement of a lesser used myth, Irish gods, and goddesses. It gave the book a more unexpected story and the details made me devour every word.
The end of the book is CH. Yes, so you guessed it; I want the next book NOW! Sadly, it won't be released anytime soon. Until then, I have to ask everyone to go read this. It was fun and full of a myth that's not as well known as most.
4 stars
I'm torn. I just read a book where I adored the characters, the plot and everything about it. There is a slight love traingle within the book as well, and between the two men, I want both. (This is not one of those types of books though, so I have to choose.)
Sara, the heroine, is the clueless human who becomes more. She's fun and sassy, but the author remains true to her roots, not letting her get jaded quickly. Also, her roots also allow that the character is given a heart we can all relate to, while viewing the horrific world of the fae and irish gods at the same time.
Her two guys? One, he's sweet and a little bossy. I really like him and he's strong enough to fight for Sara. The other is a jerk. He's ... well, you have to read it to understand my feelings for him. Just, I'm torn between the two.
My favorite part, though, is the implement of a lesser used myth, Irish gods, and goddesses. It gave the book a more unexpected story and the details made me devour every word.
The end of the book is CH. Yes, so you guessed it; I want the next book NOW! Sadly, it won't be released anytime soon. Until then, I have to ask everyone to go read this. It was fun and full of a myth that's not as well known as most.
4 stars
February 20, 2018
**4.5 Stars**
Review on https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
Sage is most interested in getting a shower and finding a safe space to spend the night for her and her friend Ziggy, so in an uncharacteristic act, she agrees to go to a Halloween party if it means being safe for a night. But after falling asleep in a strange bed, Sage wakes up and realizes that something is not right. A drink made by a friend ends up taking away all her worries- that is until she ends up draining the life from the guy she was dancing with, a guy who was not human at all. But, Sage might not be human herself, and the world she is thrust into may be more dangerous than even her... and everything may burn.
I am always looking for new urban fantasy books to escape into and I was excited when Fire and Bone crossed my radar- I loved the cover with the bright color choices as well as the synopsis caught my attention. I was going to read this, it was only a matter of when- luckily my friend Sarah over at the Clever Reader website offered me a copy to review. Well, I am so glad that I could read this right now, especially since I am on an urban fantasy kick- and keep in mind that I read a LOT of Urban Fantasy (it's my favorite!). I was really happy with what I discovered beneath the gorgeous cover of Fire and Bone- an equally developed, complicated and unique world unlike anything I have delved into before. The book was roughly 450 pages but only cover a few days time, so the pages were so full of action, descriptions of the world and magical creatures (from vampires, pixies, ghouls, selkies, Demigods, Goddesses, wraiths, druids...) that sprung from Danu the goddess, mythology and legends that the world builds on, as well as fleshed out characters. There is a little bit of something for everyone wrapped up in this book.
The story alternates narration between Sage and Faelan, the person assigned to train and protect Sage while she transitions to her new life. I really enjoyed how Rachel was able to give them very different personalities and voices throughout the boom. Sage is cynical and wary of accepting help due to her past, knows nothing about this world she apparently belongs to, and is basically a pawn who is bumbling her way to understanding. But yet, inside her she has the fire and heat that could make people bow down to her, so we will have to see how she wants to play her cards. Faelan on the other hand is centuries old, stoic, controlled and uncompromising- basically an incredibly attractive badass who marches to his own strict code. Sage and Faelan butt heads left and right, yet it makes me wonder if the sparks (ha, a Sage related pun!) are a sign of what is building between the two of them.
Occasionally, we were able to see through another characters eyes, such as the mysterious Kieran, who I thought was a great, complicated character and I kind of rooted for him- but I usually like the bad guys and he basically killed Sage within the first 30% of the book, but nobody is perfect. And my favorite character is Aelin (who is actually a side character), the Druid who appears to be a flighty, superficial, self-centered character but really has depth and heart and a really entertaining personality that made me laugh with her over the top antics. She is totally underrated in their world and I hope she gets a chance to show what she is capable of later.
This was my first book by Rachel A. Marks but it won't be my last- I can't wait to read the Dark Cycle series while I am waiting for the next installment of Sage's story- because let me tell you, this was just the beginning and the ending of the book caused just as many questions as it answered. Sage is just learning who she is and what she is capable of, as well as the underlying darkness that is motivating the plans against her (ok, I will admit that the twists that happened right at the ending filled me with rage that I can't pick up the next book right this minute, but I will try to cope and fill the hole in my heart that waiting for more Demigod mayhem caused- yes I am overly dramatic). Overall I really enjoyed this story and all the twists and turns the plot took as well as the dynamics between the characters. I highly recommend this YA- Urban fantasy crossover for anyone looking for something different.
I read this book to review.
Review on https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
Sage is most interested in getting a shower and finding a safe space to spend the night for her and her friend Ziggy, so in an uncharacteristic act, she agrees to go to a Halloween party if it means being safe for a night. But after falling asleep in a strange bed, Sage wakes up and realizes that something is not right. A drink made by a friend ends up taking away all her worries- that is until she ends up draining the life from the guy she was dancing with, a guy who was not human at all. But, Sage might not be human herself, and the world she is thrust into may be more dangerous than even her... and everything may burn.
It's like I won a weekend at a five-star resort. With deadly creatures and mayhem, but still...It's pretty close.
I am always looking for new urban fantasy books to escape into and I was excited when Fire and Bone crossed my radar- I loved the cover with the bright color choices as well as the synopsis caught my attention. I was going to read this, it was only a matter of when- luckily my friend Sarah over at the Clever Reader website offered me a copy to review. Well, I am so glad that I could read this right now, especially since I am on an urban fantasy kick- and keep in mind that I read a LOT of Urban Fantasy (it's my favorite!). I was really happy with what I discovered beneath the gorgeous cover of Fire and Bone- an equally developed, complicated and unique world unlike anything I have delved into before. The book was roughly 450 pages but only cover a few days time, so the pages were so full of action, descriptions of the world and magical creatures (from vampires, pixies, ghouls, selkies, Demigods, Goddesses, wraiths, druids...) that sprung from Danu the goddess, mythology and legends that the world builds on, as well as fleshed out characters. There is a little bit of something for everyone wrapped up in this book.
The story alternates narration between Sage and Faelan, the person assigned to train and protect Sage while she transitions to her new life. I really enjoyed how Rachel was able to give them very different personalities and voices throughout the boom. Sage is cynical and wary of accepting help due to her past, knows nothing about this world she apparently belongs to, and is basically a pawn who is bumbling her way to understanding. But yet, inside her she has the fire and heat that could make people bow down to her, so we will have to see how she wants to play her cards. Faelan on the other hand is centuries old, stoic, controlled and uncompromising- basically an incredibly attractive badass who marches to his own strict code. Sage and Faelan butt heads left and right, yet it makes me wonder if the sparks (ha, a Sage related pun!) are a sign of what is building between the two of them.
Occasionally, we were able to see through another characters eyes, such as the mysterious Kieran, who I thought was a great, complicated character and I kind of rooted for him- but I usually like the bad guys and he basically killed Sage within the first 30% of the book, but nobody is perfect. And my favorite character is Aelin (who is actually a side character), the Druid who appears to be a flighty, superficial, self-centered character but really has depth and heart and a really entertaining personality that made me laugh with her over the top antics. She is totally underrated in their world and I hope she gets a chance to show what she is capable of later.
This was my first book by Rachel A. Marks but it won't be my last- I can't wait to read the Dark Cycle series while I am waiting for the next installment of Sage's story- because let me tell you, this was just the beginning and the ending of the book caused just as many questions as it answered. Sage is just learning who she is and what she is capable of, as well as the underlying darkness that is motivating the plans against her (ok, I will admit that the twists that happened right at the ending filled me with rage that I can't pick up the next book right this minute, but I will try to cope and fill the hole in my heart that waiting for more Demigod mayhem caused- yes I am overly dramatic). Overall I really enjoyed this story and all the twists and turns the plot took as well as the dynamics between the characters. I highly recommend this YA- Urban fantasy crossover for anyone looking for something different.
I read this book to review.
Want to read
April 10, 2018Review copies available for request here: [closed - other review opportunities found here]
October 15, 2017
4.5 stars
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this amazing book in exchange for an honest review. When I read the description I was very curious. It's described as Gossip Girl meets Percy Jackson. I loved both, so I knew I needed this book.
Sage is a teenage girl that hasn't had an easy life. Her mother is an addict, so she was put in one foster family after the other. So she spends most of her nights on the streets. Her life changes one night during a party and she is not prepared. Turns out she is a demigoddess, powerful one at that and in a matter of a week or so she needs to decide what House she will belong to and try and control her new found abilities. She is supported by Faelan and Marius and his daughter Lia. The whole new world is very overwhelming and Sage kind of wants to run. Add a dangerous, hot guy to the mix who seems to be able to control her, it gets pretty interesting. Part of the book made it seem like it would be a predictable story, things went a lot different than I expected. That was a pleasant surprise.
The only reason this book didn't get 5 stars from me was because the flashbacks in the beginning were a bit confusing at first and it ook awhile for them to be explained. And this book has a kind of love triangle. It wasn't too present though, so that wasn't completely a bad thing. All I know is I just finished the first book and I really need more! That ending just really made me want more. I need to know how Sage does with her decision and what that does to Faelan!
More descriptive review to follow soon on thebookdutchesses.wordpress.com
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this amazing book in exchange for an honest review. When I read the description I was very curious. It's described as Gossip Girl meets Percy Jackson. I loved both, so I knew I needed this book.
Sage is a teenage girl that hasn't had an easy life. Her mother is an addict, so she was put in one foster family after the other. So she spends most of her nights on the streets. Her life changes one night during a party and she is not prepared. Turns out she is a demigoddess, powerful one at that and in a matter of a week or so she needs to decide what House she will belong to and try and control her new found abilities. She is supported by Faelan and Marius and his daughter Lia. The whole new world is very overwhelming and Sage kind of wants to run. Add a dangerous, hot guy to the mix who seems to be able to control her, it gets pretty interesting. Part of the book made it seem like it would be a predictable story, things went a lot different than I expected. That was a pleasant surprise.
The only reason this book didn't get 5 stars from me was because the flashbacks in the beginning were a bit confusing at first and it ook awhile for them to be explained. And this book has a kind of love triangle. It wasn't too present though, so that wasn't completely a bad thing. All I know is I just finished the first book and I really need more! That ending just really made me want more. I need to know how Sage does with her decision and what that does to Faelan!
More descriptive review to follow soon on thebookdutchesses.wordpress.com
February 11, 2018
Fire and Bone is a blend of dark fantasy and humor, integrating ancient Celtic mythology with modern day Los Angeles. I'm all about it! Aged out of foster care and living on the streets, Sage is ripped from everything she knows and discovers that she is a Celtic demi-god with burgeoning powers. Thrust into an unfamiliar world full of magic, political intrigue, and violence, she must decide who to trust and navigate her complicated feelings for two male demi-gods. Despite what it sounds like, this is not a typical love-triangle and there are plenty of interesting twists to the plot.
I really enjoyed stepping into this world where wealthy, immmortal beings play out all the worst tropes of the Hollywood elite- super entertaining! Meanwhile, Sage is this great mix of soft-hearted naivete and independent rebel. Her experience living as a human clashes with the lifestyle and power systems of this world she is stepping into. The way the story is told had me pushing forward, curious to uncover secrets and find out more about who Sage really is. The romance possibilities don't resolve in this first book and the slow-burn style is really refreshing in comparison to so many insta-love stories. While I wasn't completely blown away, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I am definitely interested in picking up the sequel! I received an e-arc of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed stepping into this world where wealthy, immmortal beings play out all the worst tropes of the Hollywood elite- super entertaining! Meanwhile, Sage is this great mix of soft-hearted naivete and independent rebel. Her experience living as a human clashes with the lifestyle and power systems of this world she is stepping into. The way the story is told had me pushing forward, curious to uncover secrets and find out more about who Sage really is. The romance possibilities don't resolve in this first book and the slow-burn style is really refreshing in comparison to so many insta-love stories. While I wasn't completely blown away, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and I am definitely interested in picking up the sequel! I received an e-arc of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2018
This was a pretty good book but not I'm sad because I don't have the next book!
Sage has had her world turned upside down. She found out who to trust and who not to. She's alsp dealing with some weird ass dreams/visions. Of course towards the middle/end of the book.. she found out why this was happening to her. It was another interesting twist in her life and it made this book really interesting.
Other than Sage, there is Faelan and Kieran. At first you don't know much about them other than the fact that she has them in her life. For one, she has this weird feeling that she knows Kieran and somehow falls under his spell - but doesn't know why. Then there's Faelan, who is her protector and she definitely develops a crush on him. It also happens vice versa. I loved them together and was definitely shipping them - so the ending kind of shocked me.
I have no idea what the next book will bring me.. will he still be by her side since he's her protector? What does Kieran and the bird have up their sleeve? Also, why the hell is the princess so freaking creepy?
Endless questions and possibilities!
Sage has had her world turned upside down. She found out who to trust and who not to. She's alsp dealing with some weird ass dreams/visions. Of course towards the middle/end of the book.. she found out why this was happening to her. It was another interesting twist in her life and it made this book really interesting.
Other than Sage, there is Faelan and Kieran. At first you don't know much about them other than the fact that she has them in her life. For one, she has this weird feeling that she knows Kieran and somehow falls under his spell - but doesn't know why. Then there's Faelan, who is her protector and she definitely develops a crush on him. It also happens vice versa. I loved them together and was definitely shipping them - so the ending kind of shocked me.
I have no idea what the next book will bring me.. will he still be by her side since he's her protector? What does Kieran and the bird have up their sleeve? Also, why the hell is the princess so freaking creepy?
Endless questions and possibilities!
April 15, 2018
I've read all of Rachel Marks' books so far, and this is definitely my favorite! Maybe it's because it's been a while since I've read a Fae-centered book. (OK, technically Celtic gods, but the feel is the same.) Or, maybe it's just Marks' wonderful writing. Probably both :). But mostly the writing.
I just loved this incredible story world, and the characters. Sage, the main character, is so easy to connect with. All of the characters are distinctive and pop off the page. The plot is twisty. But mostly, the lore and story world are so rich and vivid. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!
I just loved this incredible story world, and the characters. Sage, the main character, is so easy to connect with. All of the characters are distinctive and pop off the page. The plot is twisty. But mostly, the lore and story world are so rich and vivid. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!
Read
October 23, 2019This was going great, and Kate Rudd is one of my fav narrators, but then it turned into men suddenly having tremendous power and control over our demigod heroine. Seriously wtf. She's a demigod. Melt their d!cks off!
She probably ruled them all by the end, but I didn't feel like suffering from men ruling shit until then... DNF
She probably ruled them all by the end, but I didn't feel like suffering from men ruling shit until then... DNF
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