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The Tethering #1
The Tethering
All Jacob Evans wants is to win the heart of Emilia Gray, but with order in the magical world crumbling, war threatening, and Emilia’s boyfriend living across the hall, he may never have the chance.
After losing everything he has ever known, Jacob is tossed into a world of magic. The Dragons, a group of rebel wizards, are threatening to expose the existence of magic to humans. Jacob is determined to find a way to fit into Emilia’s life, but as his powers grow, so does the danger. With the death toll mounting, Jacob is accused of murder and must fight to stay in a world he’s only just beginning to discover.
When Emilia’s life is threatened, Jacob risks everything to save her.
After losing everything he has ever known, Jacob is tossed into a world of magic. The Dragons, a group of rebel wizards, are threatening to expose the existence of magic to humans. Jacob is determined to find a way to fit into Emilia’s life, but as his powers grow, so does the danger. With the death toll mounting, Jacob is accused of murder and must fight to stay in a world he’s only just beginning to discover.
When Emilia’s life is threatened, Jacob risks everything to save her.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2014
789 people are currently reading
2947 people want to read
About the author
Megan O'Russell
52 books493 followersMegan started writing when she discovered playing Cordelia in King Lear leaves you way too much time waiting backstage. She began her career as an author during an ill-fated trip to Oz. She hasn't stopped writing (even when living on a tour bus) since.
Megan's wanderlust has led her all over the globe. When she's not planning her next escapade, she's diving into fantasy worlds where she doesn't have to worry about what rules she's supposed to follow or how many pairs of socks she can fit in her suitcase.
Her love of storytelling has helped Megan weave her real-life exploits into seven different book series. From the epic fantasy world of Ilbrea to the paranormal dystopian romance of Girl of Glass, there is always is a new way to escape into adventure.
Megan would love to connect with you on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or TikTok but feels obliged to warn you in advance that you will be hearing about her cats…a lot.
If you want to stay up to date on all Megan's books and adventures (and hear about her cats) you can find all her social media links, including where to sign up for her readers community at: https://linktr.ee/meganorussell
Megan's wanderlust has led her all over the globe. When she's not planning her next escapade, she's diving into fantasy worlds where she doesn't have to worry about what rules she's supposed to follow or how many pairs of socks she can fit in her suitcase.
Her love of storytelling has helped Megan weave her real-life exploits into seven different book series. From the epic fantasy world of Ilbrea to the paranormal dystopian romance of Girl of Glass, there is always is a new way to escape into adventure.
Megan would love to connect with you on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or TikTok but feels obliged to warn you in advance that you will be hearing about her cats…a lot.
If you want to stay up to date on all Megan's books and adventures (and hear about her cats) you can find all her social media links, including where to sign up for her readers community at: https://linktr.ee/meganorussell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
September 12, 2019
4 stars - English Ebook 🦋🦋🦋
I think what crawl ounder my skin was Dexter. I do not know why Emilia is with him. The character Jacob of is more suiting for her. Well written. You slide into the world of Emilia and Jacob. Liked the read. 🌹🌹🌹
I think what crawl ounder my skin was Dexter. I do not know why Emilia is with him. The character Jacob of is more suiting for her. Well written. You slide into the world of Emilia and Jacob. Liked the read. 🌹🌹🌹
July 17, 2014
To be fair, the author is my wife. That being said, I was (and still am) her front line editor for this series, and yet, this book is still one of my favorite reads. Megan has a writing style and voice that are very unique and wonderfully inventive. Childlike in wonder at times yet full of a wisdom and maturity beyond her years at others. I highly recommend this book. And I know that some will think that I'm biased, but Megan and I are each others biggest critics (because we have to be). And I truly believe that The Tethering will be one of your favorite reads of the year. Check out http://meganorussell.com for more info on The Tethering's release dates and to read Megan O'Russell's author blog.
July 9, 2019
That was a poor mash-up between Harry Potter and the Shadowhunters, with some poorly executed bonding à la Sarah J. Maas, and I'm so tired of the same old tropes in YA, I feel like I'm growing out of those books. It's becoming harder to find something that can surprise me pleasantly with an original twist to the known stories at this point.
We have spellcasting, of course the spells have names and the male lead uses a wand (HP). There's a rift in the magical society with some wanting to stay hidden and live in peace with the humans, while a faction tries to expose them and rule over the world. MAJOR SPOILER: And just, ugh.
It had a nice premise but made me roll my eyes so many times it hurt. Everything was so predictable to the point where I could tell how a chapter will unfold. Also, there was some plot-devicey torture that was rather underwhelming and used as a tool to provide a predicament for the characters in the next chapters but with no real value to it.
All in all: same old mouthwash but it didn't taste fresh, rather like someone had used it before you.
We have spellcasting, of course the spells have names and the male lead uses a wand (HP). There's a rift in the magical society with some wanting to stay hidden and live in peace with the humans, while a faction tries to expose them and rule over the world. MAJOR SPOILER: And just, ugh.
It had a nice premise but made me roll my eyes so many times it hurt. Everything was so predictable to the point where I could tell how a chapter will unfold. Also, there was some plot-devicey torture that was rather underwhelming and used as a tool to provide a predicament for the characters in the next chapters but with no real value to it.
All in all: same old mouthwash but it didn't taste fresh, rather like someone had used it before you.
September 5, 2022
DNF @25% imo this is a mash up of several different popular YA books and I’m just not into it.
July 30, 2019
It wants to be Harry Potter and The Magicians, but falls short on world building and character development.
November 1, 2014
Official Review: The Tethering by Megan O’Russell
By Courtney Whittamore
Imagine that while living a very menial life at best, your entire life is interrupted by a world you thought only existed in books of legend. Further, imagine that you are told that you yourself are a part of this mystical world, and have the chance to be whisked away to the realms of all things unbelievable so that you may become a part of the grand scheme of a race that has been suspect of existence for centuries, but never aptly confirmed. This is the crossroads at which Jacob evens finds himself, and the path he takes will forever change his destiny and to whom that destiny is bound.
In her debut novel, O’Russell does an astounding job at creating a stark contrast between the world that Jacob inhabits and the beginning, and the world that he is introduced to upon the discovery of his magical talents, even though those two realms exist one within the other. However, the only world that Jacob wants to be in is the world that includes his best friends, and consequently the not-so-secret love of his life, Emilia Gray.
The book opens with vignettes of the friendship that blooms over the span of several years between Jacob and Emilia. It shows their first meeting, full of feelings of loneliness and insecurity from Jacob, and the outreach of kindness and acceptance from Emilia. This first snapshot of their relationship sets the tone for what would turn out to be their long enduring journey together. These scenes follow the pair through the development of their bond; depicting how inevitable the friendship between the two of them was by describing how intricately the two really knew each other, and further, accepted all of these intricacies. The scenes end with the heartbreaking departure of Emilia saying goodbye to Jacob. For reasons that at the time are much unknown, Emilia and her family must abruptly move away. Although the Grays see Jacob as a part of their family, and he is already relatively alone to fend for himself as his father always takes jobs out of town for long periods of time, he is unable to go with them. Emilia’s departure breaks Jacob in two, as Emilia has essentially become a substantial part of him. However, he is left with the small comfort of Emilia’s departing words, containing the promise that she will come back for him. Knowing Emilia and the heart with which her promises are made, he knew that she would make good on her vow to return for him, the only concern was how long her would have to subsist without her.
As Jacob grows into his high school years, he is now more alone than ever. His father has taken increasingly more jobs away from the home, and Jacob has had to acquire small jobs here and there in order to maintain what small standard of living that he can. Even though his father would leave him money at each departure, the length of his absence always outlasted the money, and Jacob had to fill in the gaps. This made him grow up more quickly, and decide that the only important things were to provide for himself, and to be the model student at school. His goal was to make excellent grades and gain acceptance into only the best schools, so that he could not only surmount his current circumstances, but so that he could be the man that Emilia would have wanted him to be. This is the life that Jacob had carefully laid plan to live. But as just as the saying says that life is what happens when we are busy making plans, so did Jacob’s life take on a spirit of its own, and take a twist that no one saw coming.
Upon receiving a call from the principle to immediately come to his office, Jacob obliges and makes his way to the office, where the news that awaited him was of the grimmest he could have received. Upon receiving this heart breaking news, all of the emotions in him began to swell, and even though the principle continued to talk, Jacob was lost in his emotions. Until the windows blew in. Suddenly he found himself on the floor being shielded by the body of the principle. It was later discovered that all the glass within the building had exploded, and was assumed a terrorist attack upon the school. What were the odds that Jacob would receive such horrible personal news and have such a large catastrophe happen around him in the same day? Too stricken with grief, Jacob ignored the question rumbling around in his head, and instead headed to his empty home, to lick his wounds and morn his loss. Then Emilia showed up.
Uncertain of whether he was having hallucinations of shock or if she was really there was of no consequence to Jacob. All the mattered was that Emilia was back, and she knew what had happened. He barely heard her words at all because he was lost in the pure joy that accompanied her reappearance. Then he words caught him, and brought him back to reality. She was there to take him away with her. And it was urgent that she come with him immediately. Confused but fairly unquestioning of his beloved Emilia, he went with her to the home to which she had fled. What awaited him there was yet another anomaly to add to his growing list.
As it turns out, Emilia and her family are of the race of Magickind, specifically witches and warlocks, and very astute ones at that. Where that not unbelievable enough, upon his arrival Emilia’s aunt, Aunt Iz, informed him that he too, was of their kind. The alleged terrorist attack at the school was in fact a very large and accidently display of the powers that Jacob possessed. In his emotional turmoil, his magic had unleashed accordingly, resulting in the unfortunate and unintentional destruction of the school. The Manson House where he now was, was actually a place of training for witches and warlocks, and Jacob had been brought there to decide whether or not he wanted to enter in this world in which he had always believed was myth.
As he made his decision to stay in order to stay close with Emilia, tensions began to rise within the ranks of Magickind and a revolution was on the brink. The rebels were planning an event so catastrophic that attention would be demanded and fear would be imminent. Jacob was soon faced with another choice. Would he rise to the occasion of protecting a race and by extension and order of a world that he had only weeks prior discovered its existence? Would he risk everything for people he had just aligned himself with but for only a minuscule amount of time? This is what the Thethering explores, and O’Russell explores it seamlessly.
As mentioned before, there is a delicate balance in this piece between one very ordinary world, and one mythical world that exists in the pocket of and sometimes right out in the middle of this very regular world. O’Russells composition of these two worlds is complete and believable, right to the very last detail. The amount of depth in which she provides to build such a place that pulls you in so that you yourself believe that such a story could actually be true requires an immense amount of talent. A talent that is displayed on every page of the book and should be recognized for the brilliance that it represents.
O’Russell’s book is of the YA genre, which at this time I feel is the most competitive of genres to try and debut a novel. However I have no doubt that this novel will still come out on top. It is similar enough to the ideals that the most successful books of the genre contain, yet original enough to not simply be one of the same. This book is full of creativity and ingenuity that has yet to be displayed in any of the current YA novels out there in my opinion, and I have read the majority of the ones that currently line the shelves.
O’Russell’s debut is one that will command notice. This first novel provides a strong foundation on which an impending series will be built, and I for one and on the edge of my seat to see where she takes Jacob, Emilia, and the rest of her characters on their journey to save the integrity of Magickind. I give this book five out of five stars. I genuinely enjoyed this page turner, and am anxiously awaiting the arrival of the next installment in The Thethering series.
By Courtney Whittamore
Imagine that while living a very menial life at best, your entire life is interrupted by a world you thought only existed in books of legend. Further, imagine that you are told that you yourself are a part of this mystical world, and have the chance to be whisked away to the realms of all things unbelievable so that you may become a part of the grand scheme of a race that has been suspect of existence for centuries, but never aptly confirmed. This is the crossroads at which Jacob evens finds himself, and the path he takes will forever change his destiny and to whom that destiny is bound.
In her debut novel, O’Russell does an astounding job at creating a stark contrast between the world that Jacob inhabits and the beginning, and the world that he is introduced to upon the discovery of his magical talents, even though those two realms exist one within the other. However, the only world that Jacob wants to be in is the world that includes his best friends, and consequently the not-so-secret love of his life, Emilia Gray.
The book opens with vignettes of the friendship that blooms over the span of several years between Jacob and Emilia. It shows their first meeting, full of feelings of loneliness and insecurity from Jacob, and the outreach of kindness and acceptance from Emilia. This first snapshot of their relationship sets the tone for what would turn out to be their long enduring journey together. These scenes follow the pair through the development of their bond; depicting how inevitable the friendship between the two of them was by describing how intricately the two really knew each other, and further, accepted all of these intricacies. The scenes end with the heartbreaking departure of Emilia saying goodbye to Jacob. For reasons that at the time are much unknown, Emilia and her family must abruptly move away. Although the Grays see Jacob as a part of their family, and he is already relatively alone to fend for himself as his father always takes jobs out of town for long periods of time, he is unable to go with them. Emilia’s departure breaks Jacob in two, as Emilia has essentially become a substantial part of him. However, he is left with the small comfort of Emilia’s departing words, containing the promise that she will come back for him. Knowing Emilia and the heart with which her promises are made, he knew that she would make good on her vow to return for him, the only concern was how long her would have to subsist without her.
As Jacob grows into his high school years, he is now more alone than ever. His father has taken increasingly more jobs away from the home, and Jacob has had to acquire small jobs here and there in order to maintain what small standard of living that he can. Even though his father would leave him money at each departure, the length of his absence always outlasted the money, and Jacob had to fill in the gaps. This made him grow up more quickly, and decide that the only important things were to provide for himself, and to be the model student at school. His goal was to make excellent grades and gain acceptance into only the best schools, so that he could not only surmount his current circumstances, but so that he could be the man that Emilia would have wanted him to be. This is the life that Jacob had carefully laid plan to live. But as just as the saying says that life is what happens when we are busy making plans, so did Jacob’s life take on a spirit of its own, and take a twist that no one saw coming.
Upon receiving a call from the principle to immediately come to his office, Jacob obliges and makes his way to the office, where the news that awaited him was of the grimmest he could have received. Upon receiving this heart breaking news, all of the emotions in him began to swell, and even though the principle continued to talk, Jacob was lost in his emotions. Until the windows blew in. Suddenly he found himself on the floor being shielded by the body of the principle. It was later discovered that all the glass within the building had exploded, and was assumed a terrorist attack upon the school. What were the odds that Jacob would receive such horrible personal news and have such a large catastrophe happen around him in the same day? Too stricken with grief, Jacob ignored the question rumbling around in his head, and instead headed to his empty home, to lick his wounds and morn his loss. Then Emilia showed up.
Uncertain of whether he was having hallucinations of shock or if she was really there was of no consequence to Jacob. All the mattered was that Emilia was back, and she knew what had happened. He barely heard her words at all because he was lost in the pure joy that accompanied her reappearance. Then he words caught him, and brought him back to reality. She was there to take him away with her. And it was urgent that she come with him immediately. Confused but fairly unquestioning of his beloved Emilia, he went with her to the home to which she had fled. What awaited him there was yet another anomaly to add to his growing list.
As it turns out, Emilia and her family are of the race of Magickind, specifically witches and warlocks, and very astute ones at that. Where that not unbelievable enough, upon his arrival Emilia’s aunt, Aunt Iz, informed him that he too, was of their kind. The alleged terrorist attack at the school was in fact a very large and accidently display of the powers that Jacob possessed. In his emotional turmoil, his magic had unleashed accordingly, resulting in the unfortunate and unintentional destruction of the school. The Manson House where he now was, was actually a place of training for witches and warlocks, and Jacob had been brought there to decide whether or not he wanted to enter in this world in which he had always believed was myth.
As he made his decision to stay in order to stay close with Emilia, tensions began to rise within the ranks of Magickind and a revolution was on the brink. The rebels were planning an event so catastrophic that attention would be demanded and fear would be imminent. Jacob was soon faced with another choice. Would he rise to the occasion of protecting a race and by extension and order of a world that he had only weeks prior discovered its existence? Would he risk everything for people he had just aligned himself with but for only a minuscule amount of time? This is what the Thethering explores, and O’Russell explores it seamlessly.
As mentioned before, there is a delicate balance in this piece between one very ordinary world, and one mythical world that exists in the pocket of and sometimes right out in the middle of this very regular world. O’Russells composition of these two worlds is complete and believable, right to the very last detail. The amount of depth in which she provides to build such a place that pulls you in so that you yourself believe that such a story could actually be true requires an immense amount of talent. A talent that is displayed on every page of the book and should be recognized for the brilliance that it represents.
O’Russell’s book is of the YA genre, which at this time I feel is the most competitive of genres to try and debut a novel. However I have no doubt that this novel will still come out on top. It is similar enough to the ideals that the most successful books of the genre contain, yet original enough to not simply be one of the same. This book is full of creativity and ingenuity that has yet to be displayed in any of the current YA novels out there in my opinion, and I have read the majority of the ones that currently line the shelves.
O’Russell’s debut is one that will command notice. This first novel provides a strong foundation on which an impending series will be built, and I for one and on the edge of my seat to see where she takes Jacob, Emilia, and the rest of her characters on their journey to save the integrity of Magickind. I give this book five out of five stars. I genuinely enjoyed this page turner, and am anxiously awaiting the arrival of the next installment in The Thethering series.
September 16, 2019
I couldn't finish this. This is an overdone story told through clichés wrapped in a bland writing style.
did-not-finish
May 20, 2024(Physical Book)
DNF 65 pages in
I was able to get into this book but this was not holding my interest at all. The chapters were short and kept you reading more but everything felt way too easy. The fact that he need a talisman and then in the next chapter got it felt way too easy. I really thought it would have took him some time. I also could not stop guessing multiple times and knew what was going to happen- it was really predictable. Also there was way too many times I felt like this was Harry Potter/Mortal Instruments. Way too many things that were practically the same or different.
Maybe I will give this another go one day to see if it was not the right time to read it. I am not sure yet though
DNF 65 pages in
I was able to get into this book but this was not holding my interest at all. The chapters were short and kept you reading more but everything felt way too easy. The fact that he need a talisman and then in the next chapter got it felt way too easy. I really thought it would have took him some time. I also could not stop guessing multiple times and knew what was going to happen- it was really predictable. Also there was way too many times I felt like this was Harry Potter/Mortal Instruments. Way too many things that were practically the same or different.
Maybe I will give this another go one day to see if it was not the right time to read it. I am not sure yet though
February 27, 2023
This ends on a cliffhanger so I automatically retract 1 star.
The story in itself was not very original, but cute and cosy.
The story in itself was not very original, but cute and cosy.
August 6, 2019
This book kept my interest until the very end. I had question that needed to be answered and was worried because there was so little book left to read. However O'Russell did a wonderful job tying up the ending but still leaving the reader wants more! Overall very well written and definitely on my recommendations list!
July 14, 2020
I couldn't even make it through this totally underwhelming, poorly written book. Everything about it was flat. Grammatical errors abounded, there was NO character development at all, & the plot was so slow moving & nonsensical that I struggled to complete the 2\3 I did finish. It's a bummer, because I liked the premise, & I really wanted to like the book. However, it just felt like a skeleton of a story, as if someone just threw together the least possible effort. Maybe a younger audience (i.e. preteens) would be better suited for this snoozefest.
September 5, 2019
Boring
Sorry but this was just incredibly boring. Characters were 2d and uninteresting. Plot was ok just overall lackluster. Nothing said “keep reading me..” though I trudged through to the end. No book 2 for me sorry
Sorry but this was just incredibly boring. Characters were 2d and uninteresting. Plot was ok just overall lackluster. Nothing said “keep reading me..” though I trudged through to the end. No book 2 for me sorry
April 29, 2015
Review to come.
May 31, 2020
Shocked. Not up to par with her normally epic stories. It's like a cheap knockoff of harry potter.
Read
June 9, 2021YA paranormal romance. I found that I could not care about a couple of teen guys fighting over a girl.
September 5, 2021
I truly don’t know what to rate this first book of a young adult fantasy series!
Edit*** after reading book 2, I’m going with five stars!
There’s so much delicious tension that I’m sure it would make a great film.
It’s got magic, in a familiar sort of way. I have fallen in love with this author over again because I can sense her passion for literary heroes and imaginary worlds.
I love X-Men so much! I found a similar love here. Influences I sensed, other than Harry Potter of course, were Star Wars, Twilight, X-Men, and maybe Lord of the Rings).
There’s a lot of set up in this book, creating a bond between the two main kids, a catalyst to bring them together, and then to explain magic.
But, it’s not boring! True to her style, O’Russell writes involved, intriguing characters who we learn about as the plot develops.
Jacob is written to be adored as a good-hearted, wounded young hero. Emilia is the strong one, with a will of iron! Each of the teens living at “the manor” with Aunt Iz (the “Professor X” type of the story) is aiming to use their uniqueness as a strength, preparing for an inevitable war.
Yeah, there’s going to be war... as well as magic powers, hidden mansions, and adopted eccentric family members! I can’t tell you how it ends except to say it was satisfying, emotional and I didn’t want to leave the characters for a single minute. (Next book, please!)
Edit*** after reading book 2, I’m going with five stars!
There’s so much delicious tension that I’m sure it would make a great film.
It’s got magic, in a familiar sort of way. I have fallen in love with this author over again because I can sense her passion for literary heroes and imaginary worlds.
I love X-Men so much! I found a similar love here. Influences I sensed, other than Harry Potter of course, were Star Wars, Twilight, X-Men, and maybe Lord of the Rings).
There’s a lot of set up in this book, creating a bond between the two main kids, a catalyst to bring them together, and then to explain magic.
But, it’s not boring! True to her style, O’Russell writes involved, intriguing characters who we learn about as the plot develops.
Jacob is written to be adored as a good-hearted, wounded young hero. Emilia is the strong one, with a will of iron! Each of the teens living at “the manor” with Aunt Iz (the “Professor X” type of the story) is aiming to use their uniqueness as a strength, preparing for an inevitable war.
Yeah, there’s going to be war... as well as magic powers, hidden mansions, and adopted eccentric family members! I can’t tell you how it ends except to say it was satisfying, emotional and I didn’t want to leave the characters for a single minute. (Next book, please!)
June 19, 2021
This one I discover it recently, it was pretty interesting.
The pace on the plot was very steady that was a plus because you don't need to wait that much for things to happen, and they're plenty of situations for them.
For an urban fantasy it was nice and the characters were okay in their development, I mean been fair they are getting a lot in their plates as it is right now but then as happens usually they are the chosen ones or have a power so great it shamed anyone before them.
I think that it os pretty entertaining if you're looking for something light and to relax, it was pretty fun in a lot of the things that happens to them apart from the more serious save the world plot in there.
The pace on the plot was very steady that was a plus because you don't need to wait that much for things to happen, and they're plenty of situations for them.
For an urban fantasy it was nice and the characters were okay in their development, I mean been fair they are getting a lot in their plates as it is right now but then as happens usually they are the chosen ones or have a power so great it shamed anyone before them.
I think that it os pretty entertaining if you're looking for something light and to relax, it was pretty fun in a lot of the things that happens to them apart from the more serious save the world plot in there.
June 20, 2022
4 stars - English Ebook
A excellent start to an epic YA storyline,
When Jacob blows up his school a hidden world opens for him, taken to a special school for magic wielders he is reunited with his first love Emilia and thrust into a developing war with the human race.
An entertaining well told story with great characters, betrayal and intrigue and super climax with several shocks throughout.
You can not put de book down. I coulden't
I will definitely be reading more of these series.
A excellent start to an epic YA storyline,
When Jacob blows up his school a hidden world opens for him, taken to a special school for magic wielders he is reunited with his first love Emilia and thrust into a developing war with the human race.
An entertaining well told story with great characters, betrayal and intrigue and super climax with several shocks throughout.
You can not put de book down. I coulden't
I will definitely be reading more of these series.
July 10, 2021
I was having trouble reading in general with eyesight issues when I first picked this book up. So, I put it aside and eventually found the audiobook.
Pretty good narrator. I really enjoyed this story once things really started happening. Great start to a fantasy series! Looking forward to book two.
Pretty good narrator. I really enjoyed this story once things really started happening. Great start to a fantasy series! Looking forward to book two.
July 25, 2019
A well written tale that builds a great story arc. I found a new author to follow!
January 27, 2021
A bit predictable, but with some beautiful turns of phrase
August 5, 2019
Great!!
Great read with lots of twists and turns. A must if you like adventure and suspense!! Would recommend for any age.
Great read with lots of twists and turns. A must if you like adventure and suspense!! Would recommend for any age.
May 29, 2015
THIS REVIEW WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED ON MIAINNARNIA.BLOGSPOT.CO.UK
THIS BOOK WAS PROVIDED TO ME FOR FREE IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DOES NOT EFFECT MY OPINION IN ANY WAY.
3.5/5 STARS
The Tethering isn't a book I probably would have picked up on my own (the only reason I read it was because I'm part of a blog tour for the second book in June), and having heard nothing about it I really didn't know what to expect when I started. Luckily I ended up quite enjoying it.
At just above 200 pages, The Tethering is definitely a quick read. I think it only took me about two hours in total to finish it. The length made it fast paced and prevented any moments dragging on for longer than they needed it, however it also limited how much the characters and world could be developed. This is the first book in a series, and I thought that it definitely seemed like the start of a story instead of one that could stand alone. Hopefully the future books will expand on the characters and story that were introduced in this first installment.
I found the characters to be likable for the most part, especially our protagonist Jacob, and there was a nice mix of different personalities that were really fun to read about. Unfortunately, like most aspects of the book, the characters seemed underdeveloped and lacked depth however I have a feeling that is going to change after the way this book ended.
The fantasy world established in this book was intriguing and seemed quite original, but I didn't see enough of it to really make up my mind. Once again I want to see it be developed more in further books and fulfill the potential I think it has to be an interesting and unique fantasy world.
One of the problems I had with this book was that it was full of fantasy cliches. If you read a lot of YA fantasy books I think you'll definitely pick up on some overdone tropes, and unfortunately I didn't really think there was anything that made it stand out from other books in the genre. These cliches made the story seem quite predictable and I guessed a lot of the plot twists before they happened.
The writing in this book is simple but effective. It didn't blow me away, but it did flow well and there were some vivid descriptions that I really appreciated.
The strongest part of The Tethering was definitely the last quarter. I found the climax to be suitably tense and action packed, and it totally set the stakes for the rest of the series. The book ended in a way that made me really want more and I'm really looking forward to reading the second book in preparation for my blog tour stop on June 2nd!
IN CONCLUSION:
The tethering was a fun and fast paced fantasy read, but the short length meant that it lacked a lot of depth and development. Despite all my problems with this first installment I think the series has a lot of potential and I'm excited to see where the story goes in the sequel.
THIS BOOK WAS PROVIDED TO ME FOR FREE IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. THIS DOES NOT EFFECT MY OPINION IN ANY WAY.
3.5/5 STARS
The Tethering isn't a book I probably would have picked up on my own (the only reason I read it was because I'm part of a blog tour for the second book in June), and having heard nothing about it I really didn't know what to expect when I started. Luckily I ended up quite enjoying it.
At just above 200 pages, The Tethering is definitely a quick read. I think it only took me about two hours in total to finish it. The length made it fast paced and prevented any moments dragging on for longer than they needed it, however it also limited how much the characters and world could be developed. This is the first book in a series, and I thought that it definitely seemed like the start of a story instead of one that could stand alone. Hopefully the future books will expand on the characters and story that were introduced in this first installment.
I found the characters to be likable for the most part, especially our protagonist Jacob, and there was a nice mix of different personalities that were really fun to read about. Unfortunately, like most aspects of the book, the characters seemed underdeveloped and lacked depth however I have a feeling that is going to change after the way this book ended.
The fantasy world established in this book was intriguing and seemed quite original, but I didn't see enough of it to really make up my mind. Once again I want to see it be developed more in further books and fulfill the potential I think it has to be an interesting and unique fantasy world.
One of the problems I had with this book was that it was full of fantasy cliches. If you read a lot of YA fantasy books I think you'll definitely pick up on some overdone tropes, and unfortunately I didn't really think there was anything that made it stand out from other books in the genre. These cliches made the story seem quite predictable and I guessed a lot of the plot twists before they happened.
The writing in this book is simple but effective. It didn't blow me away, but it did flow well and there were some vivid descriptions that I really appreciated.
The strongest part of The Tethering was definitely the last quarter. I found the climax to be suitably tense and action packed, and it totally set the stakes for the rest of the series. The book ended in a way that made me really want more and I'm really looking forward to reading the second book in preparation for my blog tour stop on June 2nd!
IN CONCLUSION:
The tethering was a fun and fast paced fantasy read, but the short length meant that it lacked a lot of depth and development. Despite all my problems with this first installment I think the series has a lot of potential and I'm excited to see where the story goes in the sequel.
January 2, 2022
The Tethering is a nod (to be fair, probably more like swinging their head in that direction) to a certain well-known series in which the main protagonist has lost their parents and finds out their can do magic in that, in The Tethering, the main protagonist has lost their parents and finds out they can do magic. However, unlike that other book, the majority of this protag's decisions are influenced by a love interest.
I had very mixed feelings toward this book, to be entirely honest. I didn't hate it because I clearly finished it (otherwise I wouldn't be reviewing it), but I also struggled to finish it. It felt like there was a lot going on and not a lot of elaboration. A character would be introduced and then you would never hear from or about them again. A certain character would come across (maybe only to me but I digress) as a bit shifty or suspicious, but none of the characters would think anything of it and proceed to trust them whole-heartedly. The love in this book felt a bit odd, almost like a puppy-love, and it was extraordinarily annoying because the protag would whinge about the love of his life never loving him back. I wanted to sympathise with him but I couldn't - he couldn't think about anything other than his love triangle and playing the hero.
I feel like this could have been an interesting book - there was a bit they could have elaborated on a bit more, but didn't, like characters, relationships and plot lines. Plus, the ending seemed so abrupt, I didn't even realise that it had finished, it just seemed like an awkward end to a chapter.
I don't necessarily think I'll be reading the second book too soon, unfortunately.
I had very mixed feelings toward this book, to be entirely honest. I didn't hate it because I clearly finished it (otherwise I wouldn't be reviewing it), but I also struggled to finish it. It felt like there was a lot going on and not a lot of elaboration. A character would be introduced and then you would never hear from or about them again. A certain character would come across (maybe only to me but I digress) as a bit shifty or suspicious, but none of the characters would think anything of it and proceed to trust them whole-heartedly. The love in this book felt a bit odd, almost like a puppy-love, and it was extraordinarily annoying because the protag would whinge about the love of his life never loving him back. I wanted to sympathise with him but I couldn't - he couldn't think about anything other than his love triangle and playing the hero.
I feel like this could have been an interesting book - there was a bit they could have elaborated on a bit more, but didn't, like characters, relationships and plot lines. Plus, the ending seemed so abrupt, I didn't even realise that it had finished, it just seemed like an awkward end to a chapter.
I don't necessarily think I'll be reading the second book too soon, unfortunately.
August 22, 2014
The Tethering is the first effort from author Megan O'Russell and what an effort it was! The plot of the book revolves around a sixteen-year-old boy named Jacob Evans who unexpectedly finds himself thrust into a hidden world of magic that is on the brink of collapsing into disorder. To make matters worse for Jacob, his best friend, Emilia Grey, whom Jacob has a not-so-secret love for, is part of the magical world and becomes involved in the conflict in an unexpected way.
Speaking of unexpected, while I’m a fan of Young Adult fantasy novels (Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, etc), part of me, before I began reading the book, wondered if The Tethering would really bring something new to the table or if it would just be a rehashing of previous magic/fantasy concepts. While there are some similar themes to the Harry Potter series (a magical world hidden within the “normal” world of humans, a boy thrust into a world of magic that he didn’t know existed) The Tethering didn’t fail to add fresh and exciting twists to the genre. It was an exciting, interesting and completely engrossing read and, in the end, left me extremely angry that I don’t have the second one to read yet.
Okay maybe I wasn’t angry, but I am eagerly anticipating the next volume in The Tethering series which, to me, is a great indication of what Megan O’Russell was able to accomplish with this, her first, novel.
Speaking of unexpected, while I’m a fan of Young Adult fantasy novels (Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, etc), part of me, before I began reading the book, wondered if The Tethering would really bring something new to the table or if it would just be a rehashing of previous magic/fantasy concepts. While there are some similar themes to the Harry Potter series (a magical world hidden within the “normal” world of humans, a boy thrust into a world of magic that he didn’t know existed) The Tethering didn’t fail to add fresh and exciting twists to the genre. It was an exciting, interesting and completely engrossing read and, in the end, left me extremely angry that I don’t have the second one to read yet.
Okay maybe I wasn’t angry, but I am eagerly anticipating the next volume in The Tethering series which, to me, is a great indication of what Megan O’Russell was able to accomplish with this, her first, novel.
January 7, 2021
I started reading this by pure accident. I had downloaded it and it opened when I turned the kindle on so I started reading. The beginning was quite good, it realed me in a d I decided I'd give it a read straight away.
So yes it is a somewhat cliched YA read, there are definitely vibes from other books, there is a definite shadow hunter feel to it and the plot is if not predictable it's certainly not unique. The characters are likeable but that whole Jacob is new but he's going to save the world thing is over rated and over done. Having said that, it was a simple easy read with a nice pace and a decent amount of action. There wasnt too much romance and although it didn't thrill me, I'd probably read the next installment as a quick gap fill, like a pallet quencher, provided it was a short read like this. If the book was longer I'd probably have lost interest.
So a good 3/3.5 for me. The plot won't blow you away or keep you guessing but it's a nice break from reality.
So yes it is a somewhat cliched YA read, there are definitely vibes from other books, there is a definite shadow hunter feel to it and the plot is if not predictable it's certainly not unique. The characters are likeable but that whole Jacob is new but he's going to save the world thing is over rated and over done. Having said that, it was a simple easy read with a nice pace and a decent amount of action. There wasnt too much romance and although it didn't thrill me, I'd probably read the next installment as a quick gap fill, like a pallet quencher, provided it was a short read like this. If the book was longer I'd probably have lost interest.
So a good 3/3.5 for me. The plot won't blow you away or keep you guessing but it's a nice break from reality.
August 19, 2014
I was given the opportunity to read this absolutely incredible and entertaining novel prior to its release and I enjoyed every minute of it.Ms O'Russell crafts a wonderful tale of magic combined with events in the life of a boy, unsure about his place in the world and his future. The angst he feels is easily to appreciate and I empathized with him. Life hadn't been kind to Jacob, and discovering his new gift hasn't made it any easier--and then to see the girl he cares about involved with someone else? No spoilers. Read The Tethering. It's well worth it.
September 5, 2014
I absolutely loved this book!
Such a wonderful story. Jacob is a young man that you just wish you could rescue. Watching him find his place in his new family was magical. Author Megan O'Russell does an exemplary job at building a believable world and her characters of Jacob & Emilia as well the supporting cast.
This book did remind me of Harry Potter, an unloved boy who finds out he's supposed to be part of a magical world, but the story and story telling is completely original.
It's filled with plenty of tension, humor and fun and I can't wait for Book II!!!
Such a wonderful story. Jacob is a young man that you just wish you could rescue. Watching him find his place in his new family was magical. Author Megan O'Russell does an exemplary job at building a believable world and her characters of Jacob & Emilia as well the supporting cast.
This book did remind me of Harry Potter, an unloved boy who finds out he's supposed to be part of a magical world, but the story and story telling is completely original.
It's filled with plenty of tension, humor and fun and I can't wait for Book II!!!
September 12, 2019
This is not really a teen/YA book. It is more on a preteen level. The intellectual level of the writing made it difficult to read and left me totally unsatisfied. Everything from the characters, the setting and the plotting are at best shallow and derivative. This is not a story about magic, it is a story using magic as a thin excuse to move the plot along. Those are several hours I will never get back and I miss them already.
July 18, 2019
Doesn't feel complete
I was enjoying the world and the characters but then the book ended feeling like more was opened than was resolved. This kept it from being a satisfying read for me and caused the low rating. If you don't care if a book works on its own, you will probably like it far more.
I was enjoying the world and the characters but then the book ended feeling like more was opened than was resolved. This kept it from being a satisfying read for me and caused the low rating. If you don't care if a book works on its own, you will probably like it far more.
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