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Feyland #1
The Dark Realm
WHEN A GAME…
Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn’t suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch — or that she’ll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.
TURNS REAL…
Tam Linn is the perfect hero — in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he’s the only one who can help her.
WINNING IS EVERYTHING…
Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen… before it’s too late.
FEYLAND is now available in both paperback and ebook formats.
Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn’t suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch — or that she’ll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.
TURNS REAL…
Tam Linn is the perfect hero — in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he’s the only one who can help her.
WINNING IS EVERYTHING…
Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen… before it’s too late.
FEYLAND is now available in both paperback and ebook formats.
ebook
First published December 1, 2011
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About the author
Anthea Sharp
125 books1,292 followersGrowing up, Anthea Sharp spent her summers raiding the library shelves and reading, especially fantasy. She now makes her home in the Pacific Northwest, where she writes, plays the fiddle, hangs out in virtual worlds, and spends time with her small-but-good family. Contact her at antheasharp@hotmail.com, follow her on twitter, find her on facebook (http://www.facebook.com/AntheaSharp), and visit her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 366 reviews
August 20, 2016
I love anything Fae. The courts, the Wild Hunt, the creatures, the deals and games and bargains. So, when I heard about this YA novel, I was fully in.
Feyland is a video game of the future. It works as a full immersion simulation and we start with our little rich kid playing it even after daddy said no. (Daddy is the game developer and the game is still in experimental phases.) The problem is that this girl is going to actually have consequences for her actions for the first time in her life because it turns out that what happens to you in the game really happens to you because Feyland actually transports you to Fairy. So, she loses her life-force to the unseelie queen at the start of the book.
Being a spoiled little rich girl, instead of telling her daddy the truth, she deceives him and sets out to find another gamer to fight on her behalf and win her life back. She finds her chump in the form of an extremely poor boy from a horrible neighborhood with atrocious family problems. Does she try to help make this boy's life better? Understand his circumstances when he can't play the video game with her for a couple of days? Send home some damn food for him and his starving brother? Uh, no. Nor does she tell him the truth about the video game and the fact that he could actually die playing it.
Now, our girl, Jennet, made it all the way to the end of the game to fight the queen when she lost her life, so she should be a pretty good gamer, right? Well, it's hard to believe that because as soon as she gets hermark friend to start playing along with her, she becomes the ultimate damsel in distress. She constantly needs to be saved and expects this boy to save her. She is so inept and has her head stuck so far up her ass that I truly wanted to smack the shit out of her many times throughout the book.
But, in spite of Jennet being horrible, I still enjoyed the parts of the book that were set in Feyland. They made sure to include a lot of characters that are well-known to anyone who has knowledge of Fairy and it felt dark and menacing, as it should. So, overall, it was worth reading.
Feyland is a video game of the future. It works as a full immersion simulation and we start with our little rich kid playing it even after daddy said no. (Daddy is the game developer and the game is still in experimental phases.) The problem is that this girl is going to actually have consequences for her actions for the first time in her life because it turns out that what happens to you in the game really happens to you because Feyland actually transports you to Fairy. So, she loses her life-force to the unseelie queen at the start of the book.
Being a spoiled little rich girl, instead of telling her daddy the truth, she deceives him and sets out to find another gamer to fight on her behalf and win her life back. She finds her chump in the form of an extremely poor boy from a horrible neighborhood with atrocious family problems. Does she try to help make this boy's life better? Understand his circumstances when he can't play the video game with her for a couple of days? Send home some damn food for him and his starving brother? Uh, no. Nor does she tell him the truth about the video game and the fact that he could actually die playing it.
Now, our girl, Jennet, made it all the way to the end of the game to fight the queen when she lost her life, so she should be a pretty good gamer, right? Well, it's hard to believe that because as soon as she gets her
But, in spite of Jennet being horrible, I still enjoyed the parts of the book that were set in Feyland. They made sure to include a lot of characters that are well-known to anyone who has knowledge of Fairy and it felt dark and menacing, as it should. So, overall, it was worth reading.
December 2, 2015
Bullet Review:
This was a good solid read, and I enjoyed myself immensely. It's basically like Ready Player One for Teens (with faeries and in the future, but no 80's nostalgia). I thought the characters were pretty well done, and the adventure was definitely exciting. I would be interested in reading the rest of the series at some point.
This was a good solid read, and I enjoyed myself immensely. It's basically like Ready Player One for Teens (with faeries and in the future, but no 80's nostalgia). I thought the characters were pretty well done, and the adventure was definitely exciting. I would be interested in reading the rest of the series at some point.
July 19, 2014
Have you ever played a computer simulated, role playing game for a reeeeally long time and then felt like you have actually lived inside the game? well, that's what happened to Jennet in Feyland, the mystical realm in the top-secret software her father's company is working on.
Jennet snuck into her dads high-tech simulation room to try out the beta version for the game - and after facing and losing to the Big Boss in the questing game, none other than the Queen of the Dark Realm, she begins to realize there's a whole lot of 'real' in the magical realism of the game. Jennet's life is slowly draining, in the game and in real life.
And Jennet can't get any further in the game without assistance from a Hero. Game rules. She needs to find her Hero, someone in this new town who is a capable gamer - and she needs to do it fast - because her time is running out!
Enter Tam. The super cute, maybe even hot, angsty boy from her school. And while he may have the necessary skills to help Jennet he also has an unstable home life and a little brother who needs his protection too. Tam has to choose between being there for his family or helping the cute, new girl in town.
Will Jennet complete the tasks to get past the last boss in the Feyland? or will her death be the second mysterious death connected to the game? Can Tam handle the role of Knight in Shining armor that fate seems to have cast him into? or will it be "Game Over" for everyone?
I really LOVED Feyland: The Dark Realm. I loved the main characters, I loved the world built up by the author. The story has a great premise, it was well written and memorable. It's one of those gamer sort of questions that you may have even wondered yourself... What would it be like if you could actually live inside a game?
I have already downloaded the next book in this series, Feyland: The Bright Court, and I'm really looking forward to seeing where the story goes.
Awesome. Five stars!!
Jennet snuck into her dads high-tech simulation room to try out the beta version for the game - and after facing and losing to the Big Boss in the questing game, none other than the Queen of the Dark Realm, she begins to realize there's a whole lot of 'real' in the magical realism of the game. Jennet's life is slowly draining, in the game and in real life.
And Jennet can't get any further in the game without assistance from a Hero. Game rules. She needs to find her Hero, someone in this new town who is a capable gamer - and she needs to do it fast - because her time is running out!
Enter Tam. The super cute, maybe even hot, angsty boy from her school. And while he may have the necessary skills to help Jennet he also has an unstable home life and a little brother who needs his protection too. Tam has to choose between being there for his family or helping the cute, new girl in town.
Will Jennet complete the tasks to get past the last boss in the Feyland? or will her death be the second mysterious death connected to the game? Can Tam handle the role of Knight in Shining armor that fate seems to have cast him into? or will it be "Game Over" for everyone?
I really LOVED Feyland: The Dark Realm. I loved the main characters, I loved the world built up by the author. The story has a great premise, it was well written and memorable. It's one of those gamer sort of questions that you may have even wondered yourself... What would it be like if you could actually live inside a game?
I have already downloaded the next book in this series, Feyland: The Bright Court, and I'm really looking forward to seeing where the story goes.
Awesome. Five stars!!
March 25, 2014
Feyland: The Dark Realm
3.5 pleasently suprised fangirl stars
I enjoyed this YA journey into *fangirl*
Not usually a fan of YA but I pick them up everyonce in a while, they seem to permiate the market right now.
If you have ever played an RPG and become far too attached to your character ~hangs head~ you will have a soft spot for this book.
Jannet has entered the forbidden land of FayLand, a computer game her father is working on, and loses more than she barganed for.
Enter Tam Linn (yes I LOOOOOVED his name, havn't read the balad? You should) her knight in shining armor.
I had a lot of *oooh!* moments as clasic faery tale elements came into play.
They had a cute little highschool 'romance' blooming that may even have me reading the rest of the series ~gasp~
If you want a quirky fun light read give it a try.
3.5 pleasently suprised fangirl stars
I enjoyed this YA journey into *fangirl*
Not usually a fan of YA but I pick them up everyonce in a while, they seem to permiate the market right now.
If you have ever played an RPG and become far too attached to your character ~hangs head~ you will have a soft spot for this book.
Jannet has entered the forbidden land of FayLand, a computer game her father is working on, and loses more than she barganed for.
Enter Tam Linn (yes I LOOOOOVED his name, havn't read the balad? You should) her knight in shining armor.
I had a lot of *oooh!* moments as clasic faery tale elements came into play.
They had a cute little highschool 'romance' blooming that may even have me reading the rest of the series ~gasp~
If you want a quirky fun light read give it a try.
January 24, 2015
This was an interesting modern take on the old ballad of Tam Lin, in which a man is stolen by the fairy queen.
Feyland is a virtual reality game, the first of a new completely immersive type. Jennet's dad is one of the game designers, so she gets to try the prototype, and discovers that the game is more real than anyone realises. She loses part of her soul to the Dark Queen and gets locked out of the game. If she can't find a knight to champion her back into the game, she will die. So she turns to her new friend Tam, who's a whiz at gaming.
But Tam is hiding some dark secrets of his own. They may be living in a futuristic society, but poverty and crime are still flourishing, and Tam's home life is way more complicated--and dangerous--than a sheltered rich girl could ever imagine.
But if they can't overcome their differences and work together to win the game, more than Jennet's life may be lost.
Feyland isn't the first "virtual reality becomes real" story I've read, but I really enjoyed the way the author wove the fairy tale elememnts in with the futuristic ones. The fairy tale game was full of intriguing characters and situations, and the plot moved along well. It felt fresh and interesting, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
Feyland is a virtual reality game, the first of a new completely immersive type. Jennet's dad is one of the game designers, so she gets to try the prototype, and discovers that the game is more real than anyone realises. She loses part of her soul to the Dark Queen and gets locked out of the game. If she can't find a knight to champion her back into the game, she will die. So she turns to her new friend Tam, who's a whiz at gaming.
But Tam is hiding some dark secrets of his own. They may be living in a futuristic society, but poverty and crime are still flourishing, and Tam's home life is way more complicated--and dangerous--than a sheltered rich girl could ever imagine.
But if they can't overcome their differences and work together to win the game, more than Jennet's life may be lost.
Feyland isn't the first "virtual reality becomes real" story I've read, but I really enjoyed the way the author wove the fairy tale elememnts in with the futuristic ones. The fairy tale game was full of intriguing characters and situations, and the plot moved along well. It felt fresh and interesting, and I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
April 9, 2013
deleting reviews if you want to take a look at them you can do so on my blog, link on my profile
September 20, 2012
I was sent a digital download of 'Feyland: The Dark Realm' by the author, Anthea Sharp, in exchange for a fair and honest review. I'd read the synopsis and thought it sounded interesting but really, hadn't the 'teenagers-being-sucked-into-a-computer-game' plot been done before? What really intrigued me, though, was the mention of the computer game being 'a gateway to the dangerous Realm of the Faerie'. I love fairy tales, especially retold tales, so I decided to go in with an open mind. I try to always be open-minded and positive about things. I don't want to jump to conclusions or pass judgement before I truly understand what's going on. I've been burned before when I've done that and, even though I was pretty sure I knew what to expect, I still wanted to give the book a fair try. What I really didn't expect, was to be actually drawn into the game myself! All I can say is, 'Wow'!
The description of Feyland and it's characters is, in itself, a great reason to read this book. The writing is like prose only... not so much. It's hard to explain but you actually feel the words. I mean, 'Sparkling like moonlight on frost'... ? Yep. Can't you picture it... almost feel the chill? Or how about, 'It was a cobweb whisper through his mind'? I know, right? You can actually hear a faint whisper floating through your head but then, you're not quite sure if you really heard anything, or not. The whole book is like that. It's wonderful! Even if you don't have a very creative imagination, you'll find yourself being able to see every level of Feyland in your mind.
The Realm character descriptions are equally as magical. You'll find yourself gasping at how wickedly beautiful the Dark Queen is, or wrinkling your nose at how bad the goblins smell. Your heart will quicken when there's danger and you'll catch your breath once you're safe. You'll recall fairy tales you saw or read as a child in every character you meet but they'll seem totally unique, at the same time.
The human, or real world, is a drastic contrast in itself, as well as to Feyland. Everything is either decrepit and precarious, or impeccable and unassailable, almost like a sterile prison. In fact, the whole story seems to be a contradiction of itself as the two worlds fight against each other. As they start to bleed into one another, you begin to question where one world ends, and the other begins.
The mortal characters are pretty cool, too. Jennet, the heroine, has an endearing vulnerability that she continually pushes through to draw on her inner strength. As she travels through Feyland, she draws on this strength, at first, to save herself but eventually, to save those she loves, as well as all of mankind. Tam, the hero, is less than poor and, at first, seems kind of cold and aloof. He assumes that Jennet is judging him and works to appear indifferent. You find out why as his home life is revealed but you wonder how he'll be able to help her with so much already on his plate. It's soon apparent that there's much more to Tam than you first assume. He's a champion 'Simmer' (simulation computer game player), very responsible, and loyal to the bone. I'm convinced he's among the very best Young Adult heroes out there.
The secondary characters aren't described in much detail but, miraculously, you tend to get a pretty good picture of them through various situations and conversations. Some are detrimental to the plot, and some are just there to move the story along but the author gives you the sense that all of the characters are just as important as any of the others. There's a definite ending to the story but, at the same time, there's hope that the story will continue because it's just that good. These briefly mentioned characters could very well play a larger role in Tam and Jennet's future but, if they don't, you feel as though you got to know them anyway. (The 2nd book in the Trilogy, 'Feyland: The Bright Court', is out now, with the 3rd to be released this fall, 2012.)
I really, really enjoyed this book. This is one of those books where the words just flow so smoothly that you lose track of time. It's almost like you're actually lost in the play of a game and can't believe what time it is when you finally look up. Books like that don't come along all that often but when they do, you almost mourn them when you're through. You miss the characters and actually yearn to read it again just so you can reconnect with them. Give this series a try, I'm convinced you won't be sorry. You may even share a love/hate relationship with me once you're done, sad that it's already over.
The description of Feyland and it's characters is, in itself, a great reason to read this book. The writing is like prose only... not so much. It's hard to explain but you actually feel the words. I mean, 'Sparkling like moonlight on frost'... ? Yep. Can't you picture it... almost feel the chill? Or how about, 'It was a cobweb whisper through his mind'? I know, right? You can actually hear a faint whisper floating through your head but then, you're not quite sure if you really heard anything, or not. The whole book is like that. It's wonderful! Even if you don't have a very creative imagination, you'll find yourself being able to see every level of Feyland in your mind.
The Realm character descriptions are equally as magical. You'll find yourself gasping at how wickedly beautiful the Dark Queen is, or wrinkling your nose at how bad the goblins smell. Your heart will quicken when there's danger and you'll catch your breath once you're safe. You'll recall fairy tales you saw or read as a child in every character you meet but they'll seem totally unique, at the same time.
The human, or real world, is a drastic contrast in itself, as well as to Feyland. Everything is either decrepit and precarious, or impeccable and unassailable, almost like a sterile prison. In fact, the whole story seems to be a contradiction of itself as the two worlds fight against each other. As they start to bleed into one another, you begin to question where one world ends, and the other begins.
The mortal characters are pretty cool, too. Jennet, the heroine, has an endearing vulnerability that she continually pushes through to draw on her inner strength. As she travels through Feyland, she draws on this strength, at first, to save herself but eventually, to save those she loves, as well as all of mankind. Tam, the hero, is less than poor and, at first, seems kind of cold and aloof. He assumes that Jennet is judging him and works to appear indifferent. You find out why as his home life is revealed but you wonder how he'll be able to help her with so much already on his plate. It's soon apparent that there's much more to Tam than you first assume. He's a champion 'Simmer' (simulation computer game player), very responsible, and loyal to the bone. I'm convinced he's among the very best Young Adult heroes out there.
The secondary characters aren't described in much detail but, miraculously, you tend to get a pretty good picture of them through various situations and conversations. Some are detrimental to the plot, and some are just there to move the story along but the author gives you the sense that all of the characters are just as important as any of the others. There's a definite ending to the story but, at the same time, there's hope that the story will continue because it's just that good. These briefly mentioned characters could very well play a larger role in Tam and Jennet's future but, if they don't, you feel as though you got to know them anyway. (The 2nd book in the Trilogy, 'Feyland: The Bright Court', is out now, with the 3rd to be released this fall, 2012.)
I really, really enjoyed this book. This is one of those books where the words just flow so smoothly that you lose track of time. It's almost like you're actually lost in the play of a game and can't believe what time it is when you finally look up. Books like that don't come along all that often but when they do, you almost mourn them when you're through. You miss the characters and actually yearn to read it again just so you can reconnect with them. Give this series a try, I'm convinced you won't be sorry. You may even share a love/hate relationship with me once you're done, sad that it's already over.
September 16, 2012
Since I met my husband in a video game I can relate to reality and gaming crossing lines. So when I read the premise of this book I just had to get my greedy hands on it. Well I can say I was NOT disappointed!
The story starts with Jennet who is such an interesting character, her father works in the gaming industry and is responsible for the creation of the best virtual reality gaming system ever created. He brings home the prototype and Jennet of course gets to play. She discovers the game Feyland and starts playing only to find out that it isn’t just a game.
Her father and the company move to a new town and Jennet meets Tam. Tam is poor, and I do mean poor and lives with his mother and his younger brother. Together they go into Feyland to retrieve her life force which the evil queen has stolen.
Let me tell you, the characters in this book are tremendous. I absolutely fell in love with Bug even though he’s a minor character. And Tam and Jennet are well written, and oh so easy to like. These characters are written so well that you almost feel like you know them in real life. Tam is a young man who has had an extremely hard life. His mother disappears at times and he’s left to care for his younger brother who has health issues.
The Author has not only captured the characters but her description of the time in game is intense and I as a gamer can relate to how time flies by so quickly while playing. I loved the scenes and the characters both in and out of the game. Puck the loveable and mischievous fey, you’ll have to read the book for more information because I hate spoilers and I just know you��ll love the characters as much as I did.
What I will say is GO OUT AND BUY THIS INCREDIBLE BOOK! Well written, enjoyable and it will suck you in. As I said the line between games and reality is a very fine one to begin with and this author has blurred that line so much that I wonder now if my games aren’t more real than real life.
Details/Disclaimer: Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
The story starts with Jennet who is such an interesting character, her father works in the gaming industry and is responsible for the creation of the best virtual reality gaming system ever created. He brings home the prototype and Jennet of course gets to play. She discovers the game Feyland and starts playing only to find out that it isn’t just a game.
Her father and the company move to a new town and Jennet meets Tam. Tam is poor, and I do mean poor and lives with his mother and his younger brother. Together they go into Feyland to retrieve her life force which the evil queen has stolen.
Let me tell you, the characters in this book are tremendous. I absolutely fell in love with Bug even though he’s a minor character. And Tam and Jennet are well written, and oh so easy to like. These characters are written so well that you almost feel like you know them in real life. Tam is a young man who has had an extremely hard life. His mother disappears at times and he’s left to care for his younger brother who has health issues.
The Author has not only captured the characters but her description of the time in game is intense and I as a gamer can relate to how time flies by so quickly while playing. I loved the scenes and the characters both in and out of the game. Puck the loveable and mischievous fey, you’ll have to read the book for more information because I hate spoilers and I just know you��ll love the characters as much as I did.
What I will say is GO OUT AND BUY THIS INCREDIBLE BOOK! Well written, enjoyable and it will suck you in. As I said the line between games and reality is a very fine one to begin with and this author has blurred that line so much that I wonder now if my games aren’t more real than real life.
Details/Disclaimer: Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
July 31, 2016
Feyland is the most immersive virtual reality sim game ever developed and Jennet is the first person to play the prototype since her father works for the company behind it. She had no reason to suspect that the game is real, that the Unseelie Fey are trying to come through into the modern world using VR gaming, but soon enough she's battling the Dark Queen for her very life. In order to get back into the game after being banished with her health slowly declining in the real world, she needs to find a suitable champion to fight in her name to help her defeat the Queen once and for all and reclaim what has been stolen. That's where Tam Linn comes in, he's a fellow classmate at Jennet's new school and he's easily one of the best gamers she's ever met. He could make the perfect hero in the game, but his real-life situation is far from ideal. When he finally agrees to check out Feyland with Jennet, he's blown away by everything the game has to offer. What he doesn't yet realize is that this "game" can have deadly consequences, and that the fey are ready to make their move.
I've had The Dark Realm on my tbr for ages since it sounded so intriguing; however, a friend of mine really made me decide to give it a shot. She stumbled upon it a couple of weeks ago as a Nook freebie and read through it in a day, plus she had nothing but good things to say about it. Luckily, it was free on Kindle as well so I downloaded it and eagerly dug in. Usually, freebie's can be hit or miss, but this one's most definitely a hit. It's well worth the read just to see how the author combines virtual reality gaming and The Ballad of Tam Lin. The two leads, Jennet and Tam, are well-written characters, both of which are relatable for a variety reasons. I liked seeing them open up to one another through the game and become friends when they wouldn't have ordinarily. Marny, Tam's school friend, is my favorite side character - she's a breath of fresh air. I can also say that I would have liked to have seen more of Thomas, the game's creator. The world-building is also excellent, as the author ably creates two very distinct worlds - "the real world" and "Feyland" - with quite visual prose. By the way, the story also goes a little bit meta in a fascinating way.
Overall, The Dark Realm, the first book in Anthea Sharp's Feyland trilogy is a new favorite. If you're looking for an imaginative and slightly futuristic twist to fairy tales, you will enjoy this story. I need book two, The Bright Court, right now!
I've had The Dark Realm on my tbr for ages since it sounded so intriguing; however, a friend of mine really made me decide to give it a shot. She stumbled upon it a couple of weeks ago as a Nook freebie and read through it in a day, plus she had nothing but good things to say about it. Luckily, it was free on Kindle as well so I downloaded it and eagerly dug in. Usually, freebie's can be hit or miss, but this one's most definitely a hit. It's well worth the read just to see how the author combines virtual reality gaming and The Ballad of Tam Lin. The two leads, Jennet and Tam, are well-written characters, both of which are relatable for a variety reasons. I liked seeing them open up to one another through the game and become friends when they wouldn't have ordinarily. Marny, Tam's school friend, is my favorite side character - she's a breath of fresh air. I can also say that I would have liked to have seen more of Thomas, the game's creator. The world-building is also excellent, as the author ably creates two very distinct worlds - "the real world" and "Feyland" - with quite visual prose. By the way, the story also goes a little bit meta in a fascinating way.
Overall, The Dark Realm, the first book in Anthea Sharp's Feyland trilogy is a new favorite. If you're looking for an imaginative and slightly futuristic twist to fairy tales, you will enjoy this story. I need book two, The Bright Court, right now!
June 18, 2017
Virtual Reality Bites
A mixture of sci-fi and fantasy, FEYLAND asks readers the question: what if those fantasy worlds within computer games were real?
I've never been much of a gamer. I had a brief period where I was addicted to Gran Turismo - totally wupped my husband's butt, too - and another bout of trying to get that cow Lara Croft to do as she was told. But other than that, it's not really my thing. It was enough, however, to understand the mindset of the kids in this book and their addiction and love of it. Jennet is the daughter of a game developer and as such, has access to the latest technology, including a beta version of a new full immersion Sim game called Feyland. Pretty soon, it becomes evident that the simulated world is actually a gateway to the real, if alternate, world of the fair folk of myth and legend, and that what happens in the game has real life consequences.
Overall, I enjoyed Feyland, although I don't really feel like I was its target audience because despite the fact that I've read and loved a lot of YA novels, I suddenly felt very old reading it. I'd describe it as VYA (very young adult) as it was super squeaky clean content-wise and something I would let my 12-year old daughter read. Nothing inappropriate at all with regards to violence or romantic situations. This doesn't stop it being a good story, of course, it just made me feel set apart from it; as though I was reading it simply for review purposes rather than for my own enjoyment.
Like I said: not its target audience.
There is a lot of good here, though, it has to be said. Interesting characters; particularly Tam and his difficult home life. Also the burgeoning relationship between he and Jennet was sweet. He's a bit of a nerd, she's a bit of a princess. From opposites sides of the track, as it were, in what appears to be a rather frightening speculative America full of gangs and violence on one side, and technology-rich luxury on the other.
I'm settling on 3 stars for this which means "I liked it", although I have no plans to read the next instalment. Maybe my daughter will, though;)
3 Stars ★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
A mixture of sci-fi and fantasy, FEYLAND asks readers the question: what if those fantasy worlds within computer games were real?
I've never been much of a gamer. I had a brief period where I was addicted to Gran Turismo - totally wupped my husband's butt, too - and another bout of trying to get that cow Lara Croft to do as she was told. But other than that, it's not really my thing. It was enough, however, to understand the mindset of the kids in this book and their addiction and love of it. Jennet is the daughter of a game developer and as such, has access to the latest technology, including a beta version of a new full immersion Sim game called Feyland. Pretty soon, it becomes evident that the simulated world is actually a gateway to the real, if alternate, world of the fair folk of myth and legend, and that what happens in the game has real life consequences.
Overall, I enjoyed Feyland, although I don't really feel like I was its target audience because despite the fact that I've read and loved a lot of YA novels, I suddenly felt very old reading it. I'd describe it as VYA (very young adult) as it was super squeaky clean content-wise and something I would let my 12-year old daughter read. Nothing inappropriate at all with regards to violence or romantic situations. This doesn't stop it being a good story, of course, it just made me feel set apart from it; as though I was reading it simply for review purposes rather than for my own enjoyment.
Like I said: not its target audience.
There is a lot of good here, though, it has to be said. Interesting characters; particularly Tam and his difficult home life. Also the burgeoning relationship between he and Jennet was sweet. He's a bit of a nerd, she's a bit of a princess. From opposites sides of the track, as it were, in what appears to be a rather frightening speculative America full of gangs and violence on one side, and technology-rich luxury on the other.
I'm settling on 3 stars for this which means "I liked it", although I have no plans to read the next instalment. Maybe my daughter will, though;)
3 Stars ★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2011
Quick reaction: I really enjoyed this one! Very fun and quick read--with lots of good stakes. There were a few parts I felt could've been smoothed out, but overall, a definite page-turner.
Actual, full review: Original is here. (Note: Due to copy-and-paste, formatting and links have been lost.)
With a fresh twist on the faery lore, Feyland: The Dark Realm will slowly find its way into your mind... and your heart.
Anthea Sharp proves that self-publishing does not equate poor quality. The prose of Feyland is wonderfully simplistic and to-the-point, the novel is entirely polished, and absolutely enjoyable. I loved the characters--Tam, Jennet, Marny, heck, even The Bug. Jennet and Tam felt a bit generic at first, but after a while, they sprang to life in a sudden yet subtle way that I hadn't realized until the stakes tumbled over themselves in a dangerous hurry. And that's another thing I loved--the stakes don't drop, and Jennet and Tam know it. They're not trying to ignore it or deny it. They're straightforward and fight against it.
The only thing that kept me from full-on loving this novel was its predictability. Again, I have to clarify that I can guess plot twists really, really easily, so this could very well apply to only me. But I thought that there were a few directions Anthea could have taken a few plot points that didn't happen, and I was a bit disappointed by that. I also wish the secondary characters were a bit more developed--they had personalities, but were quite predictable as well.
Overall, though, I truly enjoyed this book. It's a fun novel that will fight for your attention--and succeed. I read it in one sitting. The plot will push you forward on this crazy rollercoaster of a ride, the romance is adorable and realistic, and the characters will make you want to laugh and cry at the same time--in an infinitely good way.
Forget that this is a faery book. It's more than that. It's the story of a girl, a boy, and their brilliant strength.
Actual, full review: Original is here. (Note: Due to copy-and-paste, formatting and links have been lost.)
With a fresh twist on the faery lore, Feyland: The Dark Realm will slowly find its way into your mind... and your heart.
Anthea Sharp proves that self-publishing does not equate poor quality. The prose of Feyland is wonderfully simplistic and to-the-point, the novel is entirely polished, and absolutely enjoyable. I loved the characters--Tam, Jennet, Marny, heck, even The Bug. Jennet and Tam felt a bit generic at first, but after a while, they sprang to life in a sudden yet subtle way that I hadn't realized until the stakes tumbled over themselves in a dangerous hurry. And that's another thing I loved--the stakes don't drop, and Jennet and Tam know it. They're not trying to ignore it or deny it. They're straightforward and fight against it.
The only thing that kept me from full-on loving this novel was its predictability. Again, I have to clarify that I can guess plot twists really, really easily, so this could very well apply to only me. But I thought that there were a few directions Anthea could have taken a few plot points that didn't happen, and I was a bit disappointed by that. I also wish the secondary characters were a bit more developed--they had personalities, but were quite predictable as well.
Overall, though, I truly enjoyed this book. It's a fun novel that will fight for your attention--and succeed. I read it in one sitting. The plot will push you forward on this crazy rollercoaster of a ride, the romance is adorable and realistic, and the characters will make you want to laugh and cry at the same time--in an infinitely good way.
Forget that this is a faery book. It's more than that. It's the story of a girl, a boy, and their brilliant strength.
November 29, 2011
I was kindly offered an ARC for this book and after reading the summary, decided to give it a shot. I'm not a gamer myself but I thought the premise could be interesting. The book begins by introducing us to Jennet--the daughter of an electronic company executive who has access to the latest gaming technology. The world is dystopian, which yes, I know, is being overdone, but I still love it. Jennet has reached the highest level of Feyland, a game that completely immerses the player, body and mind. But what Jennet doesn't realize is that Feyland is not just a game, but the actual land of fairy and when she faces the dark queen, the stakes are real. When she loses everything, she must find a gamer, a hero talented enough to brave Feyland and regain what she lost. Tam Linn, a recluse at her new school, is qualified for the job but has issues of his own to deal with since he lives in the slums with his unreliable mother and challenging younger brother.
Okay, so bottom line. The first chapter was not good. I could tell the author had worked and re-worked it many times. It needed an editor to point out the excessive similies/metaphors and emotion telling. I almost didn't read on...but then I did. And the author redeemed herself after that. The pacing was great--though I did find myself skimming parts in between when Jennet and Tam re-entered Feyland. There were far too many emotion tags, but that is something very common, even among traditionally published authors. I would have liked the first chapter to have been deleted and the information in that chapter integrated into the rest of the story. I liked Feyland, liked the dark queen, liked the idea that being in the gaming world had consequences. Liked Tam and Jennet. Liked Tam's friend. Liked the dystopian world.
And the cover? Not feeling it. But don't let that keep you from trying out this book.
Overall, fun read.
Content Warning: Some violence. Recommended for ages 12+.
Okay, so bottom line. The first chapter was not good. I could tell the author had worked and re-worked it many times. It needed an editor to point out the excessive similies/metaphors and emotion telling. I almost didn't read on...but then I did. And the author redeemed herself after that. The pacing was great--though I did find myself skimming parts in between when Jennet and Tam re-entered Feyland. There were far too many emotion tags, but that is something very common, even among traditionally published authors. I would have liked the first chapter to have been deleted and the information in that chapter integrated into the rest of the story. I liked Feyland, liked the dark queen, liked the idea that being in the gaming world had consequences. Liked Tam and Jennet. Liked Tam's friend. Liked the dystopian world.
And the cover? Not feeling it. But don't let that keep you from trying out this book.
Overall, fun read.
Content Warning: Some violence. Recommended for ages 12+.
February 17, 2013
Holy Cow! I seriously lack hand eye coordination and any desire to become a gamer, but at the moment, I’m seriously considering it. This story was so excruciatingly real that you need to play the game with the characters. Just wow!
Sharp employs vividly exotic descriptions and locales that catch you right from the get go. This story becomes so real that it is scary. You can actually picture the events occurring and you find yourself picturing what would happen if you were in the characters’ shoes. The events in question may be out of our realm, but the way that they are written makes everything so real and thrilling that you forget that it is a fantasy.
The phenomenal characters in this novel draw you in to this world as well. They had personalities that you could relate to. There were definitely times when you wanted them to stop feeling sorry for themselves and get on with life, or wondered why in the world they had done something so irreversibly stupid, but they were real people struggling through their issues. I also enjoyed the fact that the relationship between the characters grew throughout the novel. They didn’t instantly go from strangers to madly in love in the blink of an eye. They got to know each other as people first. It made them that much more real and approachable.
This novel was amazingly exciting, invigorating, and captivating. It is so different from your typical fantasy novel that you can’t help but be intrigued. It brought a brand new world to life and kept me captivated throughout. It was brilliant as a standalone novel as well as the first novel in a series, providing you with characters that you get to know and love.
Sharp employs vividly exotic descriptions and locales that catch you right from the get go. This story becomes so real that it is scary. You can actually picture the events occurring and you find yourself picturing what would happen if you were in the characters’ shoes. The events in question may be out of our realm, but the way that they are written makes everything so real and thrilling that you forget that it is a fantasy.
The phenomenal characters in this novel draw you in to this world as well. They had personalities that you could relate to. There were definitely times when you wanted them to stop feeling sorry for themselves and get on with life, or wondered why in the world they had done something so irreversibly stupid, but they were real people struggling through their issues. I also enjoyed the fact that the relationship between the characters grew throughout the novel. They didn’t instantly go from strangers to madly in love in the blink of an eye. They got to know each other as people first. It made them that much more real and approachable.
This novel was amazingly exciting, invigorating, and captivating. It is so different from your typical fantasy novel that you can’t help but be intrigued. It brought a brand new world to life and kept me captivated throughout. It was brilliant as a standalone novel as well as the first novel in a series, providing you with characters that you get to know and love.
September 26, 2013
'Feyland: The Dark Realm' is the story of Jennet who is in danger of dying after playing a virtual reality game that might actually be a doorway into a world where magic exists and a dark queen reigns.
This book is so well written and easy to read. I read it really quickly, not wanting to put it down. The likeable characters and believable scenarios just totally immersed me in the story. Jennet's only hope for survival is to get a champion to save her soul. She finds this in gamer Tam, but he has his own problems and doesn't totally believe her when she tells him what's happening to her. Although I was tense about what was happening to Jennet, it was Tam's story that really got my sympathy; it was realistic and pretty heart-wrenching.
I liked the combination of fantasy and sci-fi, and I thought the idea was unique and very well executed. The characters were great and their stories believable. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy, sci-fi, or YA books.
This book is so well written and easy to read. I read it really quickly, not wanting to put it down. The likeable characters and believable scenarios just totally immersed me in the story. Jennet's only hope for survival is to get a champion to save her soul. She finds this in gamer Tam, but he has his own problems and doesn't totally believe her when she tells him what's happening to her. Although I was tense about what was happening to Jennet, it was Tam's story that really got my sympathy; it was realistic and pretty heart-wrenching.
I liked the combination of fantasy and sci-fi, and I thought the idea was unique and very well executed. The characters were great and their stories believable. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy, sci-fi, or YA books.
January 6, 2014
This and my other reviews can be found at http://amethystbookwyrm.blogspot.co.uk/
Thanks to Netgalley and Indie Inked for giving me this book and the rest of Faery Worlds to review.
Jennet is lucky enough to try the prototype of the world most immersive computer game, Feyland. However, she soon figures out that it is not a game, and that part of her soul is trapped in it by the Dark Queen. Jennet must find a person who is better at playing computer games than her to save it and her life. Tam is brilliant at playing games but with his flawed family barely scraping by, he does not want to let Jennet into his life. Will the two of them be able to save not just Jennet’s soul but all of the human world from Feyland? Feyland is a very interesting book which is a mixture of paranormal and sci-fi. I like Jennet and Tam as they are both very relatable, but I preferred Tam as he is so strong from having to look after his family. I would recommend Feyland to fans of unique paranormal books.
Thanks to Netgalley and Indie Inked for giving me this book and the rest of Faery Worlds to review.
Jennet is lucky enough to try the prototype of the world most immersive computer game, Feyland. However, she soon figures out that it is not a game, and that part of her soul is trapped in it by the Dark Queen. Jennet must find a person who is better at playing computer games than her to save it and her life. Tam is brilliant at playing games but with his flawed family barely scraping by, he does not want to let Jennet into his life. Will the two of them be able to save not just Jennet’s soul but all of the human world from Feyland? Feyland is a very interesting book which is a mixture of paranormal and sci-fi. I like Jennet and Tam as they are both very relatable, but I preferred Tam as he is so strong from having to look after his family. I would recommend Feyland to fans of unique paranormal books.
November 4, 2011
Wow. This book is incredible. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could. Seriously, buy it now.
I loved the whole premise of the book. A computer game that starts to cross into reality? Um, yes, please! The game, Feyland, is fantastic, and a little too real.
Jennet is such a fun character, and I'm claiming her as my friend. A little self-centered at first (aren't we all?) she learns what true friendship is, and how much it's worth risking.
Tam. What can I say about Tam? He's had a hard life. He knows what it means to put others before himself, because that's' what he's always done. In the game of Feyland he's a knight. It's appropriate. That's all I'll say.
This is one of those books I'll read over and over again. The ending leaves things open for a sequel. I hope we get it!
I loved the whole premise of the book. A computer game that starts to cross into reality? Um, yes, please! The game, Feyland, is fantastic, and a little too real.
Jennet is such a fun character, and I'm claiming her as my friend. A little self-centered at first (aren't we all?) she learns what true friendship is, and how much it's worth risking.
Tam. What can I say about Tam? He's had a hard life. He knows what it means to put others before himself, because that's' what he's always done. In the game of Feyland he's a knight. It's appropriate. That's all I'll say.
This is one of those books I'll read over and over again. The ending leaves things open for a sequel. I hope we get it!
December 21, 2020
First urban fantasy I read, and it was a great experience from me. Tam Linn might be my first book-crush haha. The narrative,description everything was awesome!
May 9, 2020
Door To Fey Realm?
The book deals with a VR game taking its players into the land of Fey.At the same time it brings the fantasy world of the land of Fey closer to the mortal realm.
Jennet (MC) plays the game,faces the Dark Queen and loses.The Dark Queen is the final boss and Jennet didn't just lose the game,she lost part of her soul.
Now she needs to replay the game with a champion at her side,her hope is to regain her lost piece of soul.
The catch is it is October,the more days that go by,the stronger the Fey get.Apparently the veil between our worlds is at its thinnest at All Hallows Eve.
The book deals with a VR game taking its players into the land of Fey.At the same time it brings the fantasy world of the land of Fey closer to the mortal realm.
Jennet (MC) plays the game,faces the Dark Queen and loses.The Dark Queen is the final boss and Jennet didn't just lose the game,she lost part of her soul.
Now she needs to replay the game with a champion at her side,her hope is to regain her lost piece of soul.
The catch is it is October,the more days that go by,the stronger the Fey get.Apparently the veil between our worlds is at its thinnest at All Hallows Eve.
March 19, 2013
You might not know it to look at me, but I'm a gamer. I love especially the games where I enter a fantasy world and can explore and go where I want. I would love to be able to enter some of my games for real. At least that was what I used to think. Feyland: The Dark Realm, by Anthea Sharp will make me think twice about what I wish for.
Teen girl Jennett is living any gamer's dream-her father is a wealthy game developer in this futuristic novel set in our world, and Jennett has access to state of the art games that haven't even been released. After entering Feyland and losing a Boss fight with the Dark Queen, Jennett realizes that it isn't just a game. The Dark Queen takes her spoils in the form of a part of Jenett's soul. After Jennett leaves the game, she is seriously ill and needs to be hospitalized. She does come home, and knows that she must find a way to get that piece of herself back from the Dark Queen before she is completely sucked dry. When she re-enters the game, she can only get far enough in to be told that she won't be able to do it alone. She must find herself a champion to enter the game with her and defeat the Dark Queen.
She and her father have just moved and she decides to attend the local high school so that she can stay near the game, at her father's home. It is there that she knows she must find her champion and searches for the top gamer in the school. Enter Tam Lin, the dark brooding hero (I have a soft spot for dark brooding heroes-what is it about them, anyway?). He is the top gamer, but is a complicated person with a lot of home issues. The lure of being able to try the top unreleased games proves too tempting for Tam and he enters Feyland with Jennett. Eventually he finds out that the game is real. Apparently, mankind has done such a bang up job of destroying the environment, that gone are the fairie rings, the circles of standing stones (like Stonehenge), and other places that the very real creatures of fairieland have always used to enter our world. They had to find a new way in, and they did-video games. But they want to do more than just enter our world. They want to open a gateway between our world and theirs, and it doesn't look too good for humans if they are able to pull it off. Tam soon realizes that he needs to save not just Jennett, but our whole world from Feyland-and now the Dark Queen wants him as a sacrifice.
This is one of those books that had me laying awake at night thinking about it. I really loved the character Tam. Forced to grow up too soon by a mentally ill mother, he unfailingly takes care of his little brother Bug (who is an adorable character). They live in the worst part of town where bad things can happen to you if you don't know your way around (and even if you do), and Tam always performs admirably, always does the right thing. When Jennett needs him, he's there, and in the end willingly makes an unthinkable sacrifice in order to save her. We all want one of those guys, right? I think that's why books are so full of them, but they never get tiresome. I liked Jennett, too. she's a toughie, an excellent gamer (admirable quality in anyone, but particularly in a female), and she learns many lessons during the story that we should all take to heart. She too makes an incredible sacrifice at the end-but I don't want to say too much-I want you to read it yourself!
I think it's a great YA novel and a take on fantasy unlike anything I have ever seen. I usually don't like fantasy, probably because I can't find a way to relate to it. But here-ah, the games! Now that, I get. I think it's a very unique idea to make the game turn out to be real, and this was well done and well written. I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of YA fantasy or paranormal. I hope that in the next books we get to see Bug being more involved, and I'm sure the fey of Feyland are not done with Jenett, Tam , or our world.
Teen girl Jennett is living any gamer's dream-her father is a wealthy game developer in this futuristic novel set in our world, and Jennett has access to state of the art games that haven't even been released. After entering Feyland and losing a Boss fight with the Dark Queen, Jennett realizes that it isn't just a game. The Dark Queen takes her spoils in the form of a part of Jenett's soul. After Jennett leaves the game, she is seriously ill and needs to be hospitalized. She does come home, and knows that she must find a way to get that piece of herself back from the Dark Queen before she is completely sucked dry. When she re-enters the game, she can only get far enough in to be told that she won't be able to do it alone. She must find herself a champion to enter the game with her and defeat the Dark Queen.
She and her father have just moved and she decides to attend the local high school so that she can stay near the game, at her father's home. It is there that she knows she must find her champion and searches for the top gamer in the school. Enter Tam Lin, the dark brooding hero (I have a soft spot for dark brooding heroes-what is it about them, anyway?). He is the top gamer, but is a complicated person with a lot of home issues. The lure of being able to try the top unreleased games proves too tempting for Tam and he enters Feyland with Jennett. Eventually he finds out that the game is real. Apparently, mankind has done such a bang up job of destroying the environment, that gone are the fairie rings, the circles of standing stones (like Stonehenge), and other places that the very real creatures of fairieland have always used to enter our world. They had to find a new way in, and they did-video games. But they want to do more than just enter our world. They want to open a gateway between our world and theirs, and it doesn't look too good for humans if they are able to pull it off. Tam soon realizes that he needs to save not just Jennett, but our whole world from Feyland-and now the Dark Queen wants him as a sacrifice.
This is one of those books that had me laying awake at night thinking about it. I really loved the character Tam. Forced to grow up too soon by a mentally ill mother, he unfailingly takes care of his little brother Bug (who is an adorable character). They live in the worst part of town where bad things can happen to you if you don't know your way around (and even if you do), and Tam always performs admirably, always does the right thing. When Jennett needs him, he's there, and in the end willingly makes an unthinkable sacrifice in order to save her. We all want one of those guys, right? I think that's why books are so full of them, but they never get tiresome. I liked Jennett, too. she's a toughie, an excellent gamer (admirable quality in anyone, but particularly in a female), and she learns many lessons during the story that we should all take to heart. She too makes an incredible sacrifice at the end-but I don't want to say too much-I want you to read it yourself!
I think it's a great YA novel and a take on fantasy unlike anything I have ever seen. I usually don't like fantasy, probably because I can't find a way to relate to it. But here-ah, the games! Now that, I get. I think it's a very unique idea to make the game turn out to be real, and this was well done and well written. I would recommend it to anyone who is a fan of YA fantasy or paranormal. I hope that in the next books we get to see Bug being more involved, and I'm sure the fey of Feyland are not done with Jenett, Tam , or our world.
September 18, 2012
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest, unbiased review. All thoughts and conclusions have rolled around in my brain, all on their own.
Main character Jennet Carter is a gamer, a simmer – one who is able to play all the high-tech games she wants, based on the fact that her family is rich and can afford those things, as well as the fact that her dad is a computer software designer and has access to all of the latest and greatest simming games. Jennet is allowed to play on the prototype games for the simple fact that she is good at what she does – her father allows her to test a lot of the games that he is working on. Right now, his company is working on Feyland.
Feyland is an incredibly immersive computer game – you don’t just play this game, you live this game. The sounds, sights, smells – everything is coded into this make-believe world. But what if it’s not really make-believe at all? Jennet plays a deadly game with the Dark Queen of the Faeries while in Feyland and almost loses it all. Afterwards, she is left with only the husk of her body to try to carry on and reclaim what she lost. What Jennet needs now is……a champion.
Jennet is compelled to move with her dad when his company transfers him to a new modern facility, and this puts her at a new school where she is the outcast because she is wealthy. The kids in her new school are from ‘the wrong side of the tracks’, and they don’t want outsiders like her anywhere near them. But Jennet is determined to find a champion – someone who can go back with her into Feyland and save her. She finds Tam Linn, who at first glance seems incredibly unsuited for the task – but there’s no mistake that he is just as good as Jennet in the virtual gaming world, and perhaps even better.
When Tam Linn is playing a simming game, he is on the top of the world. He is the fastest, most handsome, most accomplished, most “with it” guy you could ever imagine. But in real life, his existence is pretty much the opposite. He lives in a hovel with his disturbed younger brother and an imbalanced mother who can’t seem to stay around for more than a couple of weeks at a time. He struggles for food, shelter, companionship – nevermind love. And he can’t figure out why rich girl Jennet is hanging around, asking him to help her; and he is ashamed to admit that he wants to help her.
Jennet and Tam embark on a journey that will test their mettle, their blooming friendship, their courage and their bonds to one another – and ultimately, there can be only one winner. Will they prevail, or will the Dark Queen of the Faeries take all?
I was intrigued by the story line right off the bat, because I love all things faery. The computer game-part kind of threw me for a little in the beginning, just because I am not much of a gamer myself and I thought it would be difficult for me to get into. (I did struggle my way through ‘Snow Crash’ many moons ago, and was afraid it would be just as arduous!) Fortunately, this was NOT the case. Author Anthea Sharp did a phenomenal job of explaining the basics of simming without being boring, to where even a gaming novice such as moi was able to immerse myself and join in the fun.
The magical world of Feyland was told in such exquisite detail that I could easily imagine myself tripping through the woods and chasing the wood nymphs. My favorite character would have to be Puck, just because that guy is a total rascal!
This novel was a great, immersive read and Anthea Sharp definitely has a fan in ME.
Main character Jennet Carter is a gamer, a simmer – one who is able to play all the high-tech games she wants, based on the fact that her family is rich and can afford those things, as well as the fact that her dad is a computer software designer and has access to all of the latest and greatest simming games. Jennet is allowed to play on the prototype games for the simple fact that she is good at what she does – her father allows her to test a lot of the games that he is working on. Right now, his company is working on Feyland.
Feyland is an incredibly immersive computer game – you don’t just play this game, you live this game. The sounds, sights, smells – everything is coded into this make-believe world. But what if it’s not really make-believe at all? Jennet plays a deadly game with the Dark Queen of the Faeries while in Feyland and almost loses it all. Afterwards, she is left with only the husk of her body to try to carry on and reclaim what she lost. What Jennet needs now is……a champion.
Jennet is compelled to move with her dad when his company transfers him to a new modern facility, and this puts her at a new school where she is the outcast because she is wealthy. The kids in her new school are from ‘the wrong side of the tracks’, and they don’t want outsiders like her anywhere near them. But Jennet is determined to find a champion – someone who can go back with her into Feyland and save her. She finds Tam Linn, who at first glance seems incredibly unsuited for the task – but there’s no mistake that he is just as good as Jennet in the virtual gaming world, and perhaps even better.
When Tam Linn is playing a simming game, he is on the top of the world. He is the fastest, most handsome, most accomplished, most “with it” guy you could ever imagine. But in real life, his existence is pretty much the opposite. He lives in a hovel with his disturbed younger brother and an imbalanced mother who can’t seem to stay around for more than a couple of weeks at a time. He struggles for food, shelter, companionship – nevermind love. And he can’t figure out why rich girl Jennet is hanging around, asking him to help her; and he is ashamed to admit that he wants to help her.
Jennet and Tam embark on a journey that will test their mettle, their blooming friendship, their courage and their bonds to one another – and ultimately, there can be only one winner. Will they prevail, or will the Dark Queen of the Faeries take all?
I was intrigued by the story line right off the bat, because I love all things faery. The computer game-part kind of threw me for a little in the beginning, just because I am not much of a gamer myself and I thought it would be difficult for me to get into. (I did struggle my way through ‘Snow Crash’ many moons ago, and was afraid it would be just as arduous!) Fortunately, this was NOT the case. Author Anthea Sharp did a phenomenal job of explaining the basics of simming without being boring, to where even a gaming novice such as moi was able to immerse myself and join in the fun.
The magical world of Feyland was told in such exquisite detail that I could easily imagine myself tripping through the woods and chasing the wood nymphs. My favorite character would have to be Puck, just because that guy is a total rascal!
This novel was a great, immersive read and Anthea Sharp definitely has a fan in ME.
May 3, 2012
I don't know about any of you, but one things that I love to besides reading is game. When I saw that this book dealt with pretty advanced gaming technology, I was psyched. The main setting of this novel is the game world. After I read it, I did some research and also found that this book is based off of a Scottish Ballad, Tam Linn. From what I could gather, she did a very good job weaving the two together. I loved this book, and was able to easily finish it in a couple of days. This book was fantastic and exceeded my expectations.
Reasons to Read:
1.The Characters-
The two main characters in this book, Tam and Jennet, are very unique characters. I found that I really got to know the two of them very well. Jennet wasn't just some rich spoiled girl. I mean, sure she was rich, but she was also kind of lonely. She didn't really see her dad a lot and her world was in the game, Feyland. She had retreated so much into the game that she hardly had friends in the real world. And then there was Tam. As soon as he entered the stage I fell in love with him as a character. He went through a tough life, living in a rough neighbourhood, having to take care of his brother. His mom was hadly ever there; she would sometimes disappear for months on end. And then when the two met.... We'll get to that later. The rest of the characters such as Tam's brother, and his friend Marny. They added a bit more to the overall atmosphere of the book. The extra, flat characters weren't even tedious at all.
2.The Wrting-
The writing was really well done in this book. All the events that happened seem to flow so naturally; nothing seemed forced. The dialogue between the characters was real, and some parts were pretty funny too. Although the premise makes the novel sound like it would be really lame and cheesy, it wasn't at all. My favourite part is when we see the events of the Tam Linn ballad take place. The writing there is beautiful. Overall, Sharp is a very talented writer.
3.The Romance-
As soon as Tam and Jennet met, I could feel the chemistry between them. It was right there, but not in a rub-it-in-your-face kind of way. The great part about the romance in this book is that, unlike many other books, they don't start making out in corners after page 50. (Minor spoiler: They actually don't even kiss until the end.) I think that the way Sharp went about writing the romance was nice and slow. Tam and Jennet created an excellent friendship first. The friendsihp made an easy transition to something more. It was refreshing to see such a healthy relationship form. You will not be disappointed with this plot in the novel.
The one thing that would've been useful in this book would be some sort of indication that this novel took place in the future. I was reading it, and getting so confused bescause I thought this took place in our time. But just to clarify, it does not. I think that even non-gamers will like this book, but gamers will appreciate this book even more. This book is now one of my favourites and I wouldn't mind going through it again.
Dorian
Reasons to Read:
1.The Characters-
The two main characters in this book, Tam and Jennet, are very unique characters. I found that I really got to know the two of them very well. Jennet wasn't just some rich spoiled girl. I mean, sure she was rich, but she was also kind of lonely. She didn't really see her dad a lot and her world was in the game, Feyland. She had retreated so much into the game that she hardly had friends in the real world. And then there was Tam. As soon as he entered the stage I fell in love with him as a character. He went through a tough life, living in a rough neighbourhood, having to take care of his brother. His mom was hadly ever there; she would sometimes disappear for months on end. And then when the two met.... We'll get to that later. The rest of the characters such as Tam's brother, and his friend Marny. They added a bit more to the overall atmosphere of the book. The extra, flat characters weren't even tedious at all.
2.The Wrting-
The writing was really well done in this book. All the events that happened seem to flow so naturally; nothing seemed forced. The dialogue between the characters was real, and some parts were pretty funny too. Although the premise makes the novel sound like it would be really lame and cheesy, it wasn't at all. My favourite part is when we see the events of the Tam Linn ballad take place. The writing there is beautiful. Overall, Sharp is a very talented writer.
3.The Romance-
As soon as Tam and Jennet met, I could feel the chemistry between them. It was right there, but not in a rub-it-in-your-face kind of way. The great part about the romance in this book is that, unlike many other books, they don't start making out in corners after page 50. (Minor spoiler: They actually don't even kiss until the end.) I think that the way Sharp went about writing the romance was nice and slow. Tam and Jennet created an excellent friendship first. The friendsihp made an easy transition to something more. It was refreshing to see such a healthy relationship form. You will not be disappointed with this plot in the novel.
The one thing that would've been useful in this book would be some sort of indication that this novel took place in the future. I was reading it, and getting so confused bescause I thought this took place in our time. But just to clarify, it does not. I think that even non-gamers will like this book, but gamers will appreciate this book even more. This book is now one of my favourites and I wouldn't mind going through it again.
Dorian
October 30, 2014
GAME ON!!! 5 Stars
Overall I loved this series! I can’t wait to read the next ones as well! (NOTE: this review is based on the box set Feyland: The Complete Trilogy) At first I was a little disappointed with the first book – The Dark Realm - because I was expecting a lot more magic and fae stuff. It was still good, just different than how I thought it would be! Which is one reason why I try to not form an opinion of how I expect the book to be before I read it. That being said, I read the book fairly or is that faery, quickly and was surprised at how drawn in I was. I was hooked on the characters & rooting for everything to go their way (the good ones only, of course! Lol), I cried when they did or for them, I found myself smiling & cheering for & with them. I couldn’t wait to see if they would outsmart their opponents or get outsmarted themselves, if there would be any new friendships, would any kisses finally happen, would they get caught, would they be saved, JUST EVERYTHING!!!! I read book 2 – The Bright Court – and book 3 – The Twilight Kingdom – quickly as I was so caught up in it, I didn’t even realize what time it was or how much I had read!! After completing the series I realized how The Dark Realm (book 1) set everything up for the rest of the series. Let’s not forget that the entire premise of these books is based on a VIDEO GAME! As soon as Jennet starts playing on the prototype version of the new Full-D system and clicks on the new game called Feyland, little did she realize that her life would never be the same again. Because the Fey world is dying they need mortals to replenish it & themselves, so the Fey have created a way to access the mortal realm via a very realistic sim style video game. I love to play video games and would jump at the chance to play on systems like the ones depicted in this series. Of course I am not sure that I would want to play Feyland, but still…It is such a creative idea to base a series on! You have such a mix of people of all ages and classes that are both human or mortals as the Fae/Fey would say, and immortals like the Fae/Fey and their Courts of followers. I loved how the YA book became so much more than that! I found that I didn’t even think of it in terms of a YA book, well except for the “clean” part (no sex, etc. lol). Personally, I feel that if I can get that absorbed into a book and NOT pay attention to the genre/class/age group/etc., then that is one great book & series written by an equally great author! I know that some people will and/or do, complain about the teen characters being too whiny, too wishy-washy, all full of ‘teen angst’ with teen ‘issues’ like “oh is he going to kiss me?” or “Does he think I am cool?” etc. but I think that they forget that the characters ARE TEENS!!! I had so many theories throughout this series as to who this person really was, or how that was going to play out, etc. but ya, I was wrong on most accounts! Trust me, I have never been so happy to be wrong! Also tells me just how great the author is because NOTHING is predictable which makes it that much more of an enjoyable read.
Overall I loved this series! I can’t wait to read the next ones as well! (NOTE: this review is based on the box set Feyland: The Complete Trilogy) At first I was a little disappointed with the first book – The Dark Realm - because I was expecting a lot more magic and fae stuff. It was still good, just different than how I thought it would be! Which is one reason why I try to not form an opinion of how I expect the book to be before I read it. That being said, I read the book fairly or is that faery, quickly and was surprised at how drawn in I was. I was hooked on the characters & rooting for everything to go their way (the good ones only, of course! Lol), I cried when they did or for them, I found myself smiling & cheering for & with them. I couldn’t wait to see if they would outsmart their opponents or get outsmarted themselves, if there would be any new friendships, would any kisses finally happen, would they get caught, would they be saved, JUST EVERYTHING!!!! I read book 2 – The Bright Court – and book 3 – The Twilight Kingdom – quickly as I was so caught up in it, I didn’t even realize what time it was or how much I had read!! After completing the series I realized how The Dark Realm (book 1) set everything up for the rest of the series. Let’s not forget that the entire premise of these books is based on a VIDEO GAME! As soon as Jennet starts playing on the prototype version of the new Full-D system and clicks on the new game called Feyland, little did she realize that her life would never be the same again. Because the Fey world is dying they need mortals to replenish it & themselves, so the Fey have created a way to access the mortal realm via a very realistic sim style video game. I love to play video games and would jump at the chance to play on systems like the ones depicted in this series. Of course I am not sure that I would want to play Feyland, but still…It is such a creative idea to base a series on! You have such a mix of people of all ages and classes that are both human or mortals as the Fae/Fey would say, and immortals like the Fae/Fey and their Courts of followers. I loved how the YA book became so much more than that! I found that I didn’t even think of it in terms of a YA book, well except for the “clean” part (no sex, etc. lol). Personally, I feel that if I can get that absorbed into a book and NOT pay attention to the genre/class/age group/etc., then that is one great book & series written by an equally great author! I know that some people will and/or do, complain about the teen characters being too whiny, too wishy-washy, all full of ‘teen angst’ with teen ‘issues’ like “oh is he going to kiss me?” or “Does he think I am cool?” etc. but I think that they forget that the characters ARE TEENS!!! I had so many theories throughout this series as to who this person really was, or how that was going to play out, etc. but ya, I was wrong on most accounts! Trust me, I have never been so happy to be wrong! Also tells me just how great the author is because NOTHING is predictable which makes it that much more of an enjoyable read.
January 7, 2015
My second #NextYACraze read for 2015 was Anthea Sharp's, FEYLAND: The Dark Realm. The book is boasted as an USA Today Bestselling Urban Fantasy novel. And I am not surprised by the claim.
The back cover synopsis reads:
WHEN A GAME… Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and fifteen-year-old Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn't suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch — or that she’ll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.
TURNS REAL… Tam Linn is the perfect hero — in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he’s the only one who can help her.
WINNING IS EVERYTHING… Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen… before it’s too late.
Sounds pretty intense, right? Sharp writes clean and concise prose and dialogue. She is gifted when it comes to narrative and description. She gives the reader plenty to paint the picture, but doesn't overdo it so as to take away from the pace and timing of the story. I enjoy her writing style very much.
The main characters, Jennet Carter (a well off, well to do high class teen implanted in what is basically the inner-city school district), teams up with Tam Linn (a poor, lower class student with responsibilities of an adult). The two are gamers. Sim players. And the best at their art. Carter's father works for a tech company that is pre-beta-testing the Feyland Sim game. No one is supposed to have access to it. Carter does, and has been playing the game to the point of detriment. She lost part of her soul inside the system. She needs Tam's expertise to get that missing piece of herself back. The danger, of course, is subjecting Tam to the same dangers that she faced --where the threats are real. Together they must find and battle an evil queen, not just to save themselves, but to save the world.
FEYLAND: The Dark Realm is a taut, action-packed fantasy novel. The chapters are short. I read the book in a few sittings because it was easy to keep turning pages and think, Well, one more chapter ...Okay, just one more chapter. The next thing I knew, I was done with the book, and wanting more. My hat is off to Sharp for creating such a clever gaming world, and a series of Feyland novels to go along with it!
Phillip Tomasso,
Author of Damn the Dead and Blood River
The back cover synopsis reads:
WHEN A GAME… Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and fifteen-year-old Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn't suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch — or that she’ll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.
TURNS REAL… Tam Linn is the perfect hero — in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he’s the only one who can help her.
WINNING IS EVERYTHING… Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen… before it’s too late.
Sounds pretty intense, right? Sharp writes clean and concise prose and dialogue. She is gifted when it comes to narrative and description. She gives the reader plenty to paint the picture, but doesn't overdo it so as to take away from the pace and timing of the story. I enjoy her writing style very much.
The main characters, Jennet Carter (a well off, well to do high class teen implanted in what is basically the inner-city school district), teams up with Tam Linn (a poor, lower class student with responsibilities of an adult). The two are gamers. Sim players. And the best at their art. Carter's father works for a tech company that is pre-beta-testing the Feyland Sim game. No one is supposed to have access to it. Carter does, and has been playing the game to the point of detriment. She lost part of her soul inside the system. She needs Tam's expertise to get that missing piece of herself back. The danger, of course, is subjecting Tam to the same dangers that she faced --where the threats are real. Together they must find and battle an evil queen, not just to save themselves, but to save the world.
FEYLAND: The Dark Realm is a taut, action-packed fantasy novel. The chapters are short. I read the book in a few sittings because it was easy to keep turning pages and think, Well, one more chapter ...Okay, just one more chapter. The next thing I knew, I was done with the book, and wanting more. My hat is off to Sharp for creating such a clever gaming world, and a series of Feyland novels to go along with it!
Phillip Tomasso,
Author of Damn the Dead and Blood River
August 24, 2016
[Full disclosure: I received a free paperback copy from Anthea Sharp in exchange for an honest review.]
After reading Janet McNaughton’s Tam Linn retelling, An Earthly Knight, I didn’t think any other retelling could compare. Still, I gave Feyland: The Dark Realm a try and went in with an open mind. In the end, I’m so glad I did.
At first we’re just introduced to Jennet, who gets a part of her stolen by the Dark Queen inside Feyland the game. Unfortunately this has real world consequences and when she switches schools she’s desperate to find another gamer, a champion, to help her defeat the Dark Queen and get her soul back. So when she finds out that Tam Linn, despite being incredibly poor and with little access to a simulation game despite, is an excellent gamer you can really feel her desperation to get him on her side. When she finally does they both still don’t trust each other’s motives but eventually do become friends.
What struck me the most about Feyland: The Dark Realm was not only the amazing world of Feyland itself, but the plot twists Anthea Sharp gave her story. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, something else happens instead. She’s definitely not one of those authors that goes easy on her characters and both Tam and Jennet get put through the proverbial wringer. At the same time, these plot twists allow her to develop all of her characters thoroughly. Jennet starts out a little spoiled and naive about the tough side of life and Tam is thoroughly suspicious of this apparent spoiled rich girl and her motivations. Still, they change throughout the story as Jennet feels the Dark Queen draining her life’s essence and as Tam learns to trust and maybe even love Jennet.
The world of Feyland is fantastic. Within the game you have all kinds of creatures you would expect to see in a world with fairies and a few that you wouldn’t. Some creatures will be familiar to people who like fairies (the Wild Hunt) and some will throw you for a loop completely. And of course, being a fairy world, nothing is as it seems. It’s just amazing!
I like how Anthea Sharp chose to end Feyland: The Dark Realm on a gentle sort of cliffhanger. It makes you want to read the next book, but you’re not furious at the author for failing to complete the story. I can’t wait to read the next book, Feyland: The Bright Court.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
After reading Janet McNaughton’s Tam Linn retelling, An Earthly Knight, I didn’t think any other retelling could compare. Still, I gave Feyland: The Dark Realm a try and went in with an open mind. In the end, I’m so glad I did.
At first we’re just introduced to Jennet, who gets a part of her stolen by the Dark Queen inside Feyland the game. Unfortunately this has real world consequences and when she switches schools she’s desperate to find another gamer, a champion, to help her defeat the Dark Queen and get her soul back. So when she finds out that Tam Linn, despite being incredibly poor and with little access to a simulation game despite, is an excellent gamer you can really feel her desperation to get him on her side. When she finally does they both still don’t trust each other’s motives but eventually do become friends.
What struck me the most about Feyland: The Dark Realm was not only the amazing world of Feyland itself, but the plot twists Anthea Sharp gave her story. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen, something else happens instead. She’s definitely not one of those authors that goes easy on her characters and both Tam and Jennet get put through the proverbial wringer. At the same time, these plot twists allow her to develop all of her characters thoroughly. Jennet starts out a little spoiled and naive about the tough side of life and Tam is thoroughly suspicious of this apparent spoiled rich girl and her motivations. Still, they change throughout the story as Jennet feels the Dark Queen draining her life’s essence and as Tam learns to trust and maybe even love Jennet.
The world of Feyland is fantastic. Within the game you have all kinds of creatures you would expect to see in a world with fairies and a few that you wouldn’t. Some creatures will be familiar to people who like fairies (the Wild Hunt) and some will throw you for a loop completely. And of course, being a fairy world, nothing is as it seems. It’s just amazing!
I like how Anthea Sharp chose to end Feyland: The Dark Realm on a gentle sort of cliffhanger. It makes you want to read the next book, but you’re not furious at the author for failing to complete the story. I can’t wait to read the next book, Feyland: The Bright Court.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
December 9, 2014
This is the 2nd book base on a Scottish ballad that I red this week (the 1st is about Scarborough fair) Soooo.... I had this kind of weird feeling...
Anyway it's a perfect idea:
"I forbid you maidens all that wear gold in your hair
To travel to Carterhaugh for young Tam Lin is there
None that go by Carterhaugh but they leave him a pledge
Either their mantles of green or else their maidenhead
Janet tied her kirtle green a bit above her knee
And she's gone to Carterhaugh as fast as go can she...."
So of course the main characters are Tam lin ,Jennet and the dark fairy queen Add to this another character from another Scottish ballad - Thomas the Rhymer and you got another perfect combination:
".....Oh no, oh no, Thomas, she said
That name does not belong to me
I am but the Queen of fair Elfland
That am hither come to visit thee
Harp and carp, Thomas, she said
Harp and carp along with me
And if you dare to kiss my lips
Sure of your body I will be...."
Now take all of this above and scatter it into artificial reality game and....
Put it into "Sim-game" as the point of entry to Fey land - is just ingenious!
Anthea Sharp’s choice of game levels to create a spiraling entry into the enchanted dark realm,are good ones.
She also get over on few problem like the age of the characters (No pregnancy for Jennet). She replaced the time of encounters of the queen Janet before Tam lin (still the knight). She add a generous help from Thomas the Rhymer (Who happen to know Jennet from before and play heavy metal in the court of the queen)
Now, Add to all this above ,Tam’s complicated family life- (His little brother, Bug, is a scene-stealer), and in contrast to it the near-perfect, over-protected world Jennet inhabits with her father.
The writing is solid. The pacing is even; the story keeps moving and I couldn't stop reading till i reached to the surprising finish.... now what... do I really have to wait?
Well I'll be happy to rest my hands on the next book.
Anyway it's a perfect idea:
"I forbid you maidens all that wear gold in your hair
To travel to Carterhaugh for young Tam Lin is there
None that go by Carterhaugh but they leave him a pledge
Either their mantles of green or else their maidenhead
Janet tied her kirtle green a bit above her knee
And she's gone to Carterhaugh as fast as go can she...."
So of course the main characters are Tam lin ,Jennet and the dark fairy queen Add to this another character from another Scottish ballad - Thomas the Rhymer and you got another perfect combination:
".....Oh no, oh no, Thomas, she said
That name does not belong to me
I am but the Queen of fair Elfland
That am hither come to visit thee
Harp and carp, Thomas, she said
Harp and carp along with me
And if you dare to kiss my lips
Sure of your body I will be...."
Now take all of this above and scatter it into artificial reality game and....
Put it into "Sim-game" as the point of entry to Fey land - is just ingenious!
Anthea Sharp’s choice of game levels to create a spiraling entry into the enchanted dark realm,are good ones.
She also get over on few problem like the age of the characters (No pregnancy for Jennet). She replaced the time of encounters of the queen Janet before Tam lin (still the knight). She add a generous help from Thomas the Rhymer (Who happen to know Jennet from before and play heavy metal in the court of the queen)
Now, Add to all this above ,Tam’s complicated family life- (His little brother, Bug, is a scene-stealer), and in contrast to it the near-perfect, over-protected world Jennet inhabits with her father.
The writing is solid. The pacing is even; the story keeps moving and I couldn't stop reading till i reached to the surprising finish.... now what... do I really have to wait?
Well I'll be happy to rest my hands on the next book.
November 5, 2011
So remember how the other day I was bemoaning the fact that I can't find any more good renditions of the legend of Tam Lin? This little gem totally fits the bill.
Meet Jennet Carter. Fifteen years old and living the good life as an addicted sim gamer - and as the daughter of one of the top developers in the market, she gets the new stuff right when it comes out. But with the new game her dad and his friend Thomas have developed - Feyland, the most adaptable, immersive game to date - she might have gotten in over her head. The lines between reality and old legends is fading, and when she crosses paths with the Dark Queen, she finds exactly how much is at stake.
And then there's Tam Linn. An earthly knight, to be sure, but not one with a charmed life. Balancing his gaming with a messed-up home isn't easy, especially when he can't help but want to get closer to the new, rich girl who keeps poking her nose into his business.
I'm not a gamer - well, not as much as I'd like to be (does Nancy Drew PC mysteries count? Seems like I can't cut myself off from the literature) - but the concept of being pulled completely into a game, raising the stakes so that the life you have is the only one you've got, is a compelling one. I couldn't help but tense up right along with Jennet and Tam as they got deeper into Feyland, and closer to each other. There were a few moments where I felt like, "COME ON! Communicate with each other!" but for the most part, their partnership fits as seamlessly as the plot.
Feyland proves that being published away from the general market doesn't mean low quality. There is a good amount of structure from the original legend and at the end, I definitely felt relieved that this wasn't going to be the last of Feyland (and you know how I feel about sequels recently). If you like faeries, a touch of sci-fi and old ballads, this is definitely the story for you.
Meet Jennet Carter. Fifteen years old and living the good life as an addicted sim gamer - and as the daughter of one of the top developers in the market, she gets the new stuff right when it comes out. But with the new game her dad and his friend Thomas have developed - Feyland, the most adaptable, immersive game to date - she might have gotten in over her head. The lines between reality and old legends is fading, and when she crosses paths with the Dark Queen, she finds exactly how much is at stake.
And then there's Tam Linn. An earthly knight, to be sure, but not one with a charmed life. Balancing his gaming with a messed-up home isn't easy, especially when he can't help but want to get closer to the new, rich girl who keeps poking her nose into his business.
I'm not a gamer - well, not as much as I'd like to be (does Nancy Drew PC mysteries count? Seems like I can't cut myself off from the literature) - but the concept of being pulled completely into a game, raising the stakes so that the life you have is the only one you've got, is a compelling one. I couldn't help but tense up right along with Jennet and Tam as they got deeper into Feyland, and closer to each other. There were a few moments where I felt like, "COME ON! Communicate with each other!" but for the most part, their partnership fits as seamlessly as the plot.
Feyland proves that being published away from the general market doesn't mean low quality. There is a good amount of structure from the original legend and at the end, I definitely felt relieved that this wasn't going to be the last of Feyland (and you know how I feel about sequels recently). If you like faeries, a touch of sci-fi and old ballads, this is definitely the story for you.
January 4, 2012
Jennet was a character that I fell in love with instantly. She is a girl who loves video games, has a great sense of competition, and is just tough enough without being overbearing. Strong in the face of danger, Jennet is my kind of girl. I'll admit that I absolutely loved both Jennet and Tam in this story. They meshed perfectly as a duo, playing off strengths and weaknesses. Their stories were both built up beautifully alone, but it was when they came together that Feyland shined.
I had never heard the story of Tam Lin before reading Feyland, but of course I had to research it once I was finished. Sharp has taken an age old fairy story and turned it into something that pulses with new life. Ready for a confession? I'm a gamer. A total nerd who loves MMO immersion and the story lines that come along with it. However I can honestly say that even if you aren't into the video game scene, the world that Anthea Sharp builds for her characters will easily come to life for you anyway. Her writing is fluid, easy to read, and definitely something that you'll be able to get lost in.
Feyland definitely isn't hurting in the action department either. I personally think that this is one of the more perfectly paced stories that I've read lately. In fact I actually read this book straight through from beginning to end, simply because there just wasn't a good place to stop. I needed to know what happened to Jennet and Tam. That's how invested I was in their fight to save themselves, and ultimately all of humanity.
If you enjoy fantasy stories, with a bit of science fiction thrown in, this is a read to pick up! I adored it and recommend Feyland wholeheartedly. I desperately hope that there is more in store for Jennet and Tam. I can't wait!
I had never heard the story of Tam Lin before reading Feyland, but of course I had to research it once I was finished. Sharp has taken an age old fairy story and turned it into something that pulses with new life. Ready for a confession? I'm a gamer. A total nerd who loves MMO immersion and the story lines that come along with it. However I can honestly say that even if you aren't into the video game scene, the world that Anthea Sharp builds for her characters will easily come to life for you anyway. Her writing is fluid, easy to read, and definitely something that you'll be able to get lost in.
Feyland definitely isn't hurting in the action department either. I personally think that this is one of the more perfectly paced stories that I've read lately. In fact I actually read this book straight through from beginning to end, simply because there just wasn't a good place to stop. I needed to know what happened to Jennet and Tam. That's how invested I was in their fight to save themselves, and ultimately all of humanity.
If you enjoy fantasy stories, with a bit of science fiction thrown in, this is a read to pick up! I adored it and recommend Feyland wholeheartedly. I desperately hope that there is more in store for Jennet and Tam. I can't wait!
December 13, 2011
Feyland is a fascinating realm of techno immersion gaming. The main characters are Jennet and Tam.
(For fun, just go look up Tam Linn...you'll be surprised at what you find)
Jennet was a difficult character for me to get to know. I don't have a great deal in common with a young gamer. She is the 15 year old game loving daughter of an electronic executive.
She plays games constantly and has access to the best and the newest games because of her dad's position in the electronics company. She plays a game called, you guessed it--FEYLAND. Well she gets more than she bargained for. Feyland is not just any game, but an actual place where it's not a game but reality. This is where Tam comes in. I loved his character. Loyal, likable and responsible. He is a Knight in Shining Armor (well he doesn't really have the armor but you get the idea). He's had a rough life. This is where the fun begins. Remember earlier I encouraged you to look up and research Tam Linn? Well....Tam is an actual legendary character.
I am not a gamer, I can't play my way around a Nintendo. I grew up with Atari (Atari? What's that? Again, look it up. May be boring to you guys but it was high tech to me) Ms. Sharpe has been able to use the techno jumble speak in such a way that her descriptions allowed me to understand and 'see' the gaming world. A great testimony to her writing skills.
I do have to say, I'm one of those people who do, in fact, judge a book by the cover. I can't say I was overly thrilled with the cover. I know, I know...pretty lame of me, but don't let that stop you. If you like gaming and like a great story...read this book. It's great for YA. and gamers.
(For fun, just go look up Tam Linn...you'll be surprised at what you find)
Jennet was a difficult character for me to get to know. I don't have a great deal in common with a young gamer. She is the 15 year old game loving daughter of an electronic executive.
She plays games constantly and has access to the best and the newest games because of her dad's position in the electronics company. She plays a game called, you guessed it--FEYLAND. Well she gets more than she bargained for. Feyland is not just any game, but an actual place where it's not a game but reality. This is where Tam comes in. I loved his character. Loyal, likable and responsible. He is a Knight in Shining Armor (well he doesn't really have the armor but you get the idea). He's had a rough life. This is where the fun begins. Remember earlier I encouraged you to look up and research Tam Linn? Well....Tam is an actual legendary character.
I am not a gamer, I can't play my way around a Nintendo. I grew up with Atari (Atari? What's that? Again, look it up. May be boring to you guys but it was high tech to me) Ms. Sharpe has been able to use the techno jumble speak in such a way that her descriptions allowed me to understand and 'see' the gaming world. A great testimony to her writing skills.
I do have to say, I'm one of those people who do, in fact, judge a book by the cover. I can't say I was overly thrilled with the cover. I know, I know...pretty lame of me, but don't let that stop you. If you like gaming and like a great story...read this book. It's great for YA. and gamers.
November 15, 2011
WHEN A GAME…
Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and fifteen-year-old Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn’t suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch — or that she’ll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.
TURNS REAL…
Tam Linn is the perfect hero — in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he’s the only one who can help her.
WINNING IS EVERYTHING…
Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen… before it’s too late. There is always so much happening!
I loved this book, there is something going on all the time, it really keeps your attention,whether it is learning more about Tam's life in the Exe where he lives with his younger brother and his mum, or whether it is "life" in the sim game. The places within Feyland are described so well you can picture them.
The characters are really likeable and you care about them straightaway. You worry about Tam and his brother when their mum is not there.
The book ends in such away that there has to be a book two!
I would say if you enjoyed Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series then you will also enjoy this book. I initially read 20% of the book and had to put it down to sleep! then I picked it up the night after and could not put it down I literally read the remaining 80% in one go.
FEYLAND was released December 16, 2011, in both paperback and ebook formats. What more can I say? Loved it now go pre-order it!!
Feyland is the most immersive computer game ever designed, and fifteen-year-old Jennet Carter is the first to play the prototype. But she doesn’t suspect the virtual world is close enough to touch — or that she’ll be battling for her life against the Dark Queen of the faeries.
TURNS REAL…
Tam Linn is the perfect hero — in-game. Too bad the rest of his life is seriously flawed. The last thing he needs is rich-girl Jennet prying into his secrets, insisting he’s the only one who can help her.
WINNING IS EVERYTHING…
Together, Jennet and Tam enter the Dark Realm of Feyland, only to discover that the entire human world is in danger. Pushed to the limit of their abilities, they must defeat the Dark Queen… before it’s too late. There is always so much happening!
I loved this book, there is something going on all the time, it really keeps your attention,whether it is learning more about Tam's life in the Exe where he lives with his younger brother and his mum, or whether it is "life" in the sim game. The places within Feyland are described so well you can picture them.
The characters are really likeable and you care about them straightaway. You worry about Tam and his brother when their mum is not there.
The book ends in such away that there has to be a book two!
I would say if you enjoyed Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series then you will also enjoy this book. I initially read 20% of the book and had to put it down to sleep! then I picked it up the night after and could not put it down I literally read the remaining 80% in one go.
FEYLAND was released December 16, 2011, in both paperback and ebook formats. What more can I say? Loved it now go pre-order it!!
March 17, 2013
Jennet Carter’s father is a program manager for a company called VirtuMax and they make video games. They’re working on a Full-D system where the gamer is completely immersed in the game. Full sensory simulation where it feels like the gamer is actually in the game world. When the lead game developer dies the company transfers Jennet’s dad to Crestview and Jennet moves with him even though the school is well below what she is used to. Jennet has to stay close to the prototype Full-D system her dad has because when she was gaming in Feyland something strange happened when she lost to the Dark Queen.
Now, she needs a champion to go back into Feyland and win back what she lost. But in this poor technological wasteland of a school will she be able to find a champion capable of simming? She better because she only has until Halloween before the Dark Queen sucks all her energy until she dies and Feyland gate crashes into the real world. Will Tam Linn be that champion? Can he escape his messed up life long enough to save Jennet? And is he good enough to beat the Dark Queen and her champion, the Dark Knight? Jennet certainly hopes so.
Well-written and smooth-flowing this story wastes no time with dilly dallying and proceeds along at a crisp pace. The plot is extremely interesting and I love the characters. With Feyland crouched on the other side of the Gate waiting to pounce on the unwary humans in the real world I’m very curious to see what the next book brings.
*Many thanks to the author for providing me with a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
Now, she needs a champion to go back into Feyland and win back what she lost. But in this poor technological wasteland of a school will she be able to find a champion capable of simming? She better because she only has until Halloween before the Dark Queen sucks all her energy until she dies and Feyland gate crashes into the real world. Will Tam Linn be that champion? Can he escape his messed up life long enough to save Jennet? And is he good enough to beat the Dark Queen and her champion, the Dark Knight? Jennet certainly hopes so.
Well-written and smooth-flowing this story wastes no time with dilly dallying and proceeds along at a crisp pace. The plot is extremely interesting and I love the characters. With Feyland crouched on the other side of the Gate waiting to pounce on the unwary humans in the real world I’m very curious to see what the next book brings.
*Many thanks to the author for providing me with a review copy. Please see disclaimer page on my blog.
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