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Midnight's Twins Trilogy #1
Ciudad de pesadillas
¿QUÉ PASARÍA SI PUDIÉSEMOS ENTRAR EN LOS SUEÑOS?
En un Londres alternativo, donde los sueños y las pesadillas se hacen realidad mientras dormimos, lo único que protege a los Soñadores de los peligros que lo habitan es una orden de caballeros que arriesgan sus vidas todas las noches.
Fern hará todo lo posible para ser una de ellos, aunque para conseguirlo deba enfrentarse a su hermano gemelo Oliver, la persona a la que más odia y que la traicionó cuando más lo necesitaba.
La joven no tardará en descubrir que este nuevo mundo está tan repleto de maravillas como plagado de peligros, y que alguien ha destapado un secreto mucho más terrorífico que cualquier pesadilla:
QUIEN CONTROLA TUS SUEÑOS TE CONTROLA A TI.
En un Londres alternativo, donde los sueños y las pesadillas se hacen realidad mientras dormimos, lo único que protege a los Soñadores de los peligros que lo habitan es una orden de caballeros que arriesgan sus vidas todas las noches.
Fern hará todo lo posible para ser una de ellos, aunque para conseguirlo deba enfrentarse a su hermano gemelo Oliver, la persona a la que más odia y que la traicionó cuando más lo necesitaba.
La joven no tardará en descubrir que este nuevo mundo está tan repleto de maravillas como plagado de peligros, y que alguien ha destapado un secreto mucho más terrorífico que cualquier pesadilla:
QUIEN CONTROLA TUS SUEÑOS TE CONTROLA A TI.
464 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2020
39 people are currently reading
2631 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
August 18, 2021
★★☆☆☆ (2’5/5)
Tenía muchas ganas de esta historia porque su idea me pareció muy original, un mundo donde las pesadillas se hacen realidad mientras dormimos, sin embargo la ejecución de la historia y sus personajes... no me convencieron para nada.
He tenido la sensación de que ya había leído más libros así y no presentaba ninguna novedad que me hiciera quedarme con la boca abierta. Todo lo que pasa ya lo he leído en muchos otros libros y la verdad es que cada vez que me ponía a leerlo tampoco me interesaba demasiado seguir con la historia pero aún así la he acabado. Los personajes tampoco me convencieron, ni los principales ni los secundarios, sinceramente me daba igual lo que les pasara.
¿Es un libro que recomiendo? Sí y no. Para aquellas personas que no soléis leer fantasía creo que sí que es un libro que puede gustar y lo recomiendo, sin embargo para las personas asiduas a este género no lo recomendaría porque no aporta ninguna novedad.
Tenía muchas ganas de esta historia porque su idea me pareció muy original, un mundo donde las pesadillas se hacen realidad mientras dormimos, sin embargo la ejecución de la historia y sus personajes... no me convencieron para nada.
He tenido la sensación de que ya había leído más libros así y no presentaba ninguna novedad que me hiciera quedarme con la boca abierta. Todo lo que pasa ya lo he leído en muchos otros libros y la verdad es que cada vez que me ponía a leerlo tampoco me interesaba demasiado seguir con la historia pero aún así la he acabado. Los personajes tampoco me convencieron, ni los principales ni los secundarios, sinceramente me daba igual lo que les pasara.
¿Es un libro que recomiendo? Sí y no. Para aquellas personas que no soléis leer fantasía creo que sí que es un libro que puede gustar y lo recomiendo, sin embargo para las personas asiduas a este género no lo recomendaría porque no aporta ninguna novedad.
July 30, 2020
I absolutely LOVED this book! I read it in virtually one sitting which, given the fact that I've got two small kids, is not an easy thing to do ;) But I couldn't put it down. It held me from first page to last and I'm very excited it's a trilogy - I can't wait for the next two books! Now please :)
June 5, 2020
Fern was born an outsider, and has had a lifetime of torment. But when she learns that dreams are real, everything starts to change.
Fern is an outsider, even to her own family. Her mum died when she was a baby; her twin brother is part of the pack of local kids that bullies her; and that same brother has always been her dad's favourite; giving Fern no one to trust but herself.
Fern has always been bullied for having bright red eyes. From kids at school, to strangers on the tube, she's always been treated differently, because of something she can't help. It was made even worse, when her face was scarred when her bullies went too far.
When Fern turns 15, she discovers the world of Annwn, a place of dreams and imagination. Like her mother before her, she has the chance at becoming a knight, as there are nightmares, too.
Wow.
This story took a while to get into, because I found it tricky at first to see the ever-changing Annwn, with it's weird rules and creatures; and if I'm honest, I was a little unsettled at how close to home the relationship between Fern and her brother was.
But once it got going, this was fantastic.
The world of Annwn is built by generations of dreamers, who bring it to life in the strength of their memories; and it turn Annwn inspires them in their normal lives.
Not everything is as straight-forward as trainee-knight Fern is originally told. There's more than nightmares, and there's an insidious presence threatening both worlds.
I loved the plot and the fast-action, as Fern and the other knights have to uncover what this person is after, and why it is linked to the death of her mum, fifteen years ago.
The risks are real - anyone who dies in Annwn, dies in the real world. And this story, for all of its light moments and camaraderie, is bloody brutal. Hunger Games brutal.
The story was also deeper than I expected. The way it looks at mob behaviour, and how normal people can be stirred to violence by charismatic politicians. Or all the small little gestures and comments that make it clear that they don't trust anyone who looks different, because their dangerous belief has been encouraged by the wrong people.
No one is all good, or all bad.
I also liked Ollie's journey through this. In the real world, he's popular, good-looking, and people are always on his side.
When he becomes a knight of Annwn, it's the first time a group of people see his twin sister as his equal, and judge him for what he's done.
The hatred that has been festering between them for years finally has to be faced, if either of them will survive.
I very much enjoyed this one, and I'm looking forward to the next part of the series.
Fern is an outsider, even to her own family. Her mum died when she was a baby; her twin brother is part of the pack of local kids that bullies her; and that same brother has always been her dad's favourite; giving Fern no one to trust but herself.
Fern has always been bullied for having bright red eyes. From kids at school, to strangers on the tube, she's always been treated differently, because of something she can't help. It was made even worse, when her face was scarred when her bullies went too far.
When Fern turns 15, she discovers the world of Annwn, a place of dreams and imagination. Like her mother before her, she has the chance at becoming a knight, as there are nightmares, too.
Wow.
This story took a while to get into, because I found it tricky at first to see the ever-changing Annwn, with it's weird rules and creatures; and if I'm honest, I was a little unsettled at how close to home the relationship between Fern and her brother was.
But once it got going, this was fantastic.
The world of Annwn is built by generations of dreamers, who bring it to life in the strength of their memories; and it turn Annwn inspires them in their normal lives.
Not everything is as straight-forward as trainee-knight Fern is originally told. There's more than nightmares, and there's an insidious presence threatening both worlds.
I loved the plot and the fast-action, as Fern and the other knights have to uncover what this person is after, and why it is linked to the death of her mum, fifteen years ago.
The risks are real - anyone who dies in Annwn, dies in the real world. And this story, for all of its light moments and camaraderie, is bloody brutal. Hunger Games brutal.
The story was also deeper than I expected. The way it looks at mob behaviour, and how normal people can be stirred to violence by charismatic politicians. Or all the small little gestures and comments that make it clear that they don't trust anyone who looks different, because their dangerous belief has been encouraged by the wrong people.
No one is all good, or all bad.
I also liked Ollie's journey through this. In the real world, he's popular, good-looking, and people are always on his side.
When he becomes a knight of Annwn, it's the first time a group of people see his twin sister as his equal, and judge him for what he's done.
The hatred that has been festering between them for years finally has to be faced, if either of them will survive.
I very much enjoyed this one, and I'm looking forward to the next part of the series.
June 2, 2020
Wow ! Midnight Twins is an exciting new fantasy debut novel by Holy Race, that is the first in a trilogy.
Midnight Twins is extremely well written that just grabbed my attention right from the beginning. I think the reason this story held my full attention is because it is a rare splendid fantasy.
I loved the front cover design by Sophie McDonnell with the two main characters twins Fern and Ollie.
And what’s more this story will take you to a world where dreams and nightmares are born.
Throughout reading Midnight Twins I soon realised that is indeed about an epic world, that’s full of suspense and mystery.
Fifteen year old Fern has a lot to deal with, her twin brother Ollie, hates her and their mother died in her sleep in their fathers arms.
The mysterious part here is Archimago and Fern were knights together in Annwn, but a search on the Internet for Annwn gives a link to The Truth About Your Nightmares. When Fern clicks on it a woman Is saying Do you think you’re safe when you are asleep? Well think again. That's scary thinking while your asleep you expect your dreams to be safe, but phew!! of course this is without question an excellent unusual fantasy fiction unable to put down.
The knights aren’t just… Someone appears to be haunting Ferns dreams.
I definitely recommend reading Midnight Twins as the story not just about mystery and suspense, but about friendship betrayal wonder and heartbreak.
So much happens throughout reading this story that I believe if I was to say any more I would spoil the fun for you readers .
I’m so hooked into this first instalment I’m really looking forward to reading the trilogy.
Midnight Twins is extremely well written that just grabbed my attention right from the beginning. I think the reason this story held my full attention is because it is a rare splendid fantasy.
I loved the front cover design by Sophie McDonnell with the two main characters twins Fern and Ollie.
And what’s more this story will take you to a world where dreams and nightmares are born.
Throughout reading Midnight Twins I soon realised that is indeed about an epic world, that’s full of suspense and mystery.
Fifteen year old Fern has a lot to deal with, her twin brother Ollie, hates her and their mother died in her sleep in their fathers arms.
The mysterious part here is Archimago and Fern were knights together in Annwn, but a search on the Internet for Annwn gives a link to The Truth About Your Nightmares. When Fern clicks on it a woman Is saying Do you think you’re safe when you are asleep? Well think again. That's scary thinking while your asleep you expect your dreams to be safe, but phew!! of course this is without question an excellent unusual fantasy fiction unable to put down.
The knights aren’t just… Someone appears to be haunting Ferns dreams.
I definitely recommend reading Midnight Twins as the story not just about mystery and suspense, but about friendship betrayal wonder and heartbreak.
So much happens throughout reading this story that I believe if I was to say any more I would spoil the fun for you readers .
I’m so hooked into this first instalment I’m really looking forward to reading the trilogy.
August 31, 2022
Reseña completa http://letraslibrosymas.blogspot.com/...
Reconozco que lo quise leer en cuanto vi la hermosa portada y además me atraía mucho el tema de la fantasía porque ahora estoy muy dentro de este género. Pero es que el libro es una bomba en todos los sentidos, os voy a dar unos pocos puntos claves para que veáis de lo que hablo… la autora ha creado un Londres alternativo donde existe un mundo onírico repleto de los sueños y pesadillas de las personas, en ese lugar se encuentran los Thanes que se encargan de proteger a los soñadores de todas las pesadillas porque si mueren en ese mundo, mueren en el mundo real; luego me enteré que era una reinterpretación de las leyendas artúricas y encima tenemos misterio, acción, magia, monstruos, traiciones y unos gemelos que se llevan a matar (literalmente) desde un incidente que marcó para siempre sus vidas. Con todo esto ya me tenía en el bolsillo pero lo mejor es que me ha encantado y ha cumplido con creces con mis expectativas.
Al parecer es la novela debut de la autora pero está muy bien escrita, con las descripciones justas y necesarias para conocer bien el mundo (que está muy bien, es lo que hace especial la novela) y el sistema de magia, con una construcción de personajes notable y una pluma con buenos toques de sentimientos y emociones, acción e intriga y un aura oscura que le da personalidad a la historia. Además, el libro engancha bastante y tiene giros de trama muy chulos, algunos los intuí pero otros me dejaron con la boca abierta. Vamos que tiene ese “algo”, esa chispa, que hace que disfrutes leyéndolo y te veas tan sumergido en la historia que no te enteres ni del tiempo que pasas entre sus páginas. Las dos únicas cosas que han hecho que no sea perfecto son: que al final el ritmo se precipita un poco y hay cosas que no me han quedado claras y la otra es la relación entre los gemelos, que aunque la he disfrutado por la tensión que hay entre ellos lo cierto es que pasan de odiarse y traicionarse a entenderse y tolerarse en nada de tiempo y sin nada que los lleve a ello, entiendo por los pensamientos de Fern porque puede llegar a algunos acciones, pero no creo que sea motivo suficiente cuando hay tanta envidias y odio entre ellos, necesito algo más fuerte y duradero para acabar de convencerme.
Urban fantasy con buen ritmo, un mundo complejo y unos personajes bien construidos.
Reconozco que lo quise leer en cuanto vi la hermosa portada y además me atraía mucho el tema de la fantasía porque ahora estoy muy dentro de este género. Pero es que el libro es una bomba en todos los sentidos, os voy a dar unos pocos puntos claves para que veáis de lo que hablo… la autora ha creado un Londres alternativo donde existe un mundo onírico repleto de los sueños y pesadillas de las personas, en ese lugar se encuentran los Thanes que se encargan de proteger a los soñadores de todas las pesadillas porque si mueren en ese mundo, mueren en el mundo real; luego me enteré que era una reinterpretación de las leyendas artúricas y encima tenemos misterio, acción, magia, monstruos, traiciones y unos gemelos que se llevan a matar (literalmente) desde un incidente que marcó para siempre sus vidas. Con todo esto ya me tenía en el bolsillo pero lo mejor es que me ha encantado y ha cumplido con creces con mis expectativas.
Al parecer es la novela debut de la autora pero está muy bien escrita, con las descripciones justas y necesarias para conocer bien el mundo (que está muy bien, es lo que hace especial la novela) y el sistema de magia, con una construcción de personajes notable y una pluma con buenos toques de sentimientos y emociones, acción e intriga y un aura oscura que le da personalidad a la historia. Además, el libro engancha bastante y tiene giros de trama muy chulos, algunos los intuí pero otros me dejaron con la boca abierta. Vamos que tiene ese “algo”, esa chispa, que hace que disfrutes leyéndolo y te veas tan sumergido en la historia que no te enteres ni del tiempo que pasas entre sus páginas. Las dos únicas cosas que han hecho que no sea perfecto son: que al final el ritmo se precipita un poco y hay cosas que no me han quedado claras y la otra es la relación entre los gemelos, que aunque la he disfrutado por la tensión que hay entre ellos lo cierto es que pasan de odiarse y traicionarse a entenderse y tolerarse en nada de tiempo y sin nada que los lleve a ello, entiendo por los pensamientos de Fern porque puede llegar a algunos acciones, pero no creo que sea motivo suficiente cuando hay tanta envidias y odio entre ellos, necesito algo más fuerte y duradero para acabar de convencerme.
Urban fantasy con buen ritmo, un mundo complejo y unos personajes bien construidos.
May 19, 2022
3'75/5
Este libro merece la pena por el worldbuilding porque sinceramente los dos protagonistas me caen un poco mal.
El mundo es increíble basado en las leyendas arturicas adaptado a una historia de fantasía en el que tus sueños te protegen (siguiendo con una línea maravillosa en estas temáticas de que el sueño es algo sagrado y hay que protegerlo).
Pero lo que me chirrían son los dos protagonistas (ojo, los secundarios un 10) pero tanto Fern como Ollie se me hacían pesados y sentí que los conflictos que tenían eran demasiado profundos como para arreglarlos en dos páginas simplemente con un par de frases y dos miradas de hermanos.
Al ser una trilogía espero que se desarrolle mucho más está relación y eso sí, el villano está muy bien construido y me ha dejado con muchas ganas de saber cómo sigue.
Mención especial a la portada en español que es significativamente mejor que la portada en inglés.
Este libro merece la pena por el worldbuilding porque sinceramente los dos protagonistas me caen un poco mal.
El mundo es increíble basado en las leyendas arturicas adaptado a una historia de fantasía en el que tus sueños te protegen (siguiendo con una línea maravillosa en estas temáticas de que el sueño es algo sagrado y hay que protegerlo).
Pero lo que me chirrían son los dos protagonistas (ojo, los secundarios un 10) pero tanto Fern como Ollie se me hacían pesados y sentí que los conflictos que tenían eran demasiado profundos como para arreglarlos en dos páginas simplemente con un par de frases y dos miradas de hermanos.
Al ser una trilogía espero que se desarrolle mucho más está relación y eso sí, el villano está muy bien construido y me ha dejado con muchas ganas de saber cómo sigue.
Mención especial a la portada en español que es significativamente mejor que la portada en inglés.
October 14, 2020
This book was pitched in such an intriguing manner but this story fell short for me. I felt that the author could have expanded on so many things and at the same time, compressed or eliminated other things that were unnecessary to the development and growth of the characters and story.
I found this first quarter of the book very engaging but that slowly died down until the final act of the story so you could say the pacing was very haywire. I felt that there was so much filler in the middle chunk of the book which was intended to help us get to know the world and see and connect to the characters but I just didn’t do any of that.
I am still confused and still do not understand certain parts of the system and the magic. A lot of the key world-building point were just heaped onto me and I felt so overwhelmed at those times. It made it hard to fully connect to the characters and the overall story as I didn’t understand half of what was going on.
The writing was pretty basic and it wasn’t anything special. I do feel that he story could have been elevated if the author decided to write the story with two POVs instead of one as it would have helped to see both sides and help the reader connect to our main characters.
The plot twists were unexpected but since I was confused and not connected to the story, it didn’t really affect me at all. I enjoyed the ending and it definitely left off in an interesting manner which honestly makes me keen to pick up the sequel when it comes out.
This book was decent but I found that the potential was not truly unlocked and utilized efficiently but I can definitely see the sequel being much better and I am interested to see how the author has developed her writing.
I found this first quarter of the book very engaging but that slowly died down until the final act of the story so you could say the pacing was very haywire. I felt that there was so much filler in the middle chunk of the book which was intended to help us get to know the world and see and connect to the characters but I just didn’t do any of that.
I am still confused and still do not understand certain parts of the system and the magic. A lot of the key world-building point were just heaped onto me and I felt so overwhelmed at those times. It made it hard to fully connect to the characters and the overall story as I didn’t understand half of what was going on.
The writing was pretty basic and it wasn’t anything special. I do feel that he story could have been elevated if the author decided to write the story with two POVs instead of one as it would have helped to see both sides and help the reader connect to our main characters.
The plot twists were unexpected but since I was confused and not connected to the story, it didn’t really affect me at all. I enjoyed the ending and it definitely left off in an interesting manner which honestly makes me keen to pick up the sequel when it comes out.
This book was decent but I found that the potential was not truly unlocked and utilized efficiently but I can definitely see the sequel being much better and I am interested to see how the author has developed her writing.
did-not-finish
January 27, 2024Like Holly Black books, but not good
December 3, 2021
After 8 years of reviewing YA fantasy, it's not often that I read something that's truly new to me. Midnight's Twins was.
Engaging from the very beginning, I listened to this as an audiobook, and this really is one of those audios you need to give your full attention to if you don't want to be immediately lost. Detailed world building, monsters, magic, mystery and a flawed MC. That pretty much ticks all of the Fantasy Requirement boxes for me.
It also tackles some deeper issues that you might not expect from a Fantasy YA like this (not least of all because it already has SO much going on) like politics, mob mentality, discrimination, bullying and family relationships.
The only reason I can't give it 5 stars is there's just * something * missing. I don't know if it's the writing or just how quickly it all happened - I would have loved to see more of the knights' training and gotten to know how the magic all works more before we jumped straight in to saving the world. I'm hopeful for more of all that in book 2 though, now that the world building is out of the way (the eternal dilemma of epic fantasies) so I will definitely be continuing with the series.
Engaging from the very beginning, I listened to this as an audiobook, and this really is one of those audios you need to give your full attention to if you don't want to be immediately lost. Detailed world building, monsters, magic, mystery and a flawed MC. That pretty much ticks all of the Fantasy Requirement boxes for me.
It also tackles some deeper issues that you might not expect from a Fantasy YA like this (not least of all because it already has SO much going on) like politics, mob mentality, discrimination, bullying and family relationships.
The only reason I can't give it 5 stars is there's just * something * missing. I don't know if it's the writing or just how quickly it all happened - I would have loved to see more of the knights' training and gotten to know how the magic all works more before we jumped straight in to saving the world. I'm hopeful for more of all that in book 2 though, now that the world building is out of the way (the eternal dilemma of epic fantasies) so I will definitely be continuing with the series.
June 8, 2021
PRONTO RESEÑA
October 16, 2021
He dudado bastante entre ponerle 4 y 5 ☆ a este libro, porque la verdad es que si que me gustó mucho, pero hubo pequeñas cosas que no me terminaron de encajar. Así que creo que al final son 4'5 ☆.
Ciudad de pesadillas es un libro que me llamó la atención principalmente por su portada (ya se que no hay que juzgar libros por su tapa, pero miren que belleza) así que no tenía mucha idea de que trataba cuando lo empecé. Durante las primeras 50-100 páginas anduve un poco descolocada, el libro me estaba gustando pero era un poco raro y tenía una atmósfera algo siniestra. Sin embargo conforme fui avanzando me enganchó más y comencé a entender mejor el sitema de magia (el cual es bastante complejo). Nuestra protagonista se llama Fern y su vida ha estado marcada principalmente por dos hechos: uno, la muerte de su madre poco después de que ella naciera y el otro, es el trauma que le causó que su hermano gemelo Ollie intentara asesinarla. Con estos dos detalles se va configurando la personalidad de una protagonista que se siente sola, no tiene amigos (sufre bullyng) , su relación familiar no es de las mejores, no le gusta su aspecto físico (tiene una cicatriz de quemadura en la cara y los ojos rojos), se siente el bicho raro de la historia y cree que sobra en el mundo. Todo esto me llamó mucho la atención porque no se suelen ver personajes así como los protagonistas, por lo que ella y Ollie (si el gemelo malvado) se covirtieron en mis personajes favoritos. La vida anodina y fatalista de Fern cambia por completo cuando un día le llega un mensaje del supuesto asesino de su madre, a pesar de que esta en principio murió por causas naturales. Así conoce la existencia de los caballeros y el mundo de los sueños, un reflejo del mundo real creado a partir de la imaginación de las personas cuando duermen. Pronto descubre que su vida no es tan horrible como pensaba, que ella no sobra para nada en el mundo, que su madre guardaba muchísimo más secretos de los que imaginaba y lo más importante... quien controla tus sueños te controla a ti. Toda esta trama se ve envuelta en un aura de misterio algo siniestro, fantasía y una reinterpretación de la leyendas del rey Arturo y sus caballeros. El libro en sí es un canto a perseguir tus sueños, dejar volar la imaginación y no permitir que alguien opaque tus ideales e intente hablar por ti, eso es lo que representa el villano de esta historia y me ha parecido un concepto muy original. La evolución de los personajes es buenísima y muy real y la investigación sobre el pasado de su madre me tenía súper intrigada y daba unos giros que no me vine venir en muchas ocasiones; la magia y el sistema de organización del mundo de los sueños también me han parecido muy originales, pero como ya dije antes, es algo complejo y cuesta pillarle el ritmo en un primer momento. Esto y una parte de la batalla final del libro (una maniobra que hicieron para librarse del villano que no me pareció muy convincente) han hecho que no le pueda poner esa media estrella que le falta para ser un libro casi perfecto. Aún así tengo muchas ganas de que saquen ya el segundo libro.
Ciudad de pesadillas es un libro que me llamó la atención principalmente por su portada (ya se que no hay que juzgar libros por su tapa, pero miren que belleza) así que no tenía mucha idea de que trataba cuando lo empecé. Durante las primeras 50-100 páginas anduve un poco descolocada, el libro me estaba gustando pero era un poco raro y tenía una atmósfera algo siniestra. Sin embargo conforme fui avanzando me enganchó más y comencé a entender mejor el sitema de magia (el cual es bastante complejo). Nuestra protagonista se llama Fern y su vida ha estado marcada principalmente por dos hechos: uno, la muerte de su madre poco después de que ella naciera y el otro, es el trauma que le causó que su hermano gemelo Ollie intentara asesinarla. Con estos dos detalles se va configurando la personalidad de una protagonista que se siente sola, no tiene amigos (sufre bullyng) , su relación familiar no es de las mejores, no le gusta su aspecto físico (tiene una cicatriz de quemadura en la cara y los ojos rojos), se siente el bicho raro de la historia y cree que sobra en el mundo. Todo esto me llamó mucho la atención porque no se suelen ver personajes así como los protagonistas, por lo que ella y Ollie (si el gemelo malvado) se covirtieron en mis personajes favoritos. La vida anodina y fatalista de Fern cambia por completo cuando un día le llega un mensaje del supuesto asesino de su madre, a pesar de que esta en principio murió por causas naturales. Así conoce la existencia de los caballeros y el mundo de los sueños, un reflejo del mundo real creado a partir de la imaginación de las personas cuando duermen. Pronto descubre que su vida no es tan horrible como pensaba, que ella no sobra para nada en el mundo, que su madre guardaba muchísimo más secretos de los que imaginaba y lo más importante... quien controla tus sueños te controla a ti. Toda esta trama se ve envuelta en un aura de misterio algo siniestro, fantasía y una reinterpretación de la leyendas del rey Arturo y sus caballeros. El libro en sí es un canto a perseguir tus sueños, dejar volar la imaginación y no permitir que alguien opaque tus ideales e intente hablar por ti, eso es lo que representa el villano de esta historia y me ha parecido un concepto muy original. La evolución de los personajes es buenísima y muy real y la investigación sobre el pasado de su madre me tenía súper intrigada y daba unos giros que no me vine venir en muchas ocasiones; la magia y el sistema de organización del mundo de los sueños también me han parecido muy originales, pero como ya dije antes, es algo complejo y cuesta pillarle el ritmo en un primer momento. Esto y una parte de la batalla final del libro (una maniobra que hicieron para librarse del villano que no me pareció muy convincente) han hecho que no le pueda poner esa media estrella que le falta para ser un libro casi perfecto. Aún así tengo muchas ganas de que saquen ya el segundo libro.
October 3, 2022
Fern se ha sentido relegada del mundo desde que su gemelo Ollie le volvió la espalda. Pero antes de su cumpleaños 15 le llega un mensaje sobre la muerte de su madre. Ahora descubre que su madre estaba involucrada en una orden de caballeros a la que tal vez ella misma pueda unirse y encontrar su lugar en el mundo.
~~~
El prólogo está cargado de acción, aunque no se explica nada de cómo o por qué, sabemos que la narradora está en un mundo de sueños, hasta que ya no. Ese primer capítulo engancha tanto, que resulta decepcionante que el siguiente capítulo esté narrado por una chica sosa que se queja de la gente pero en el fondo quiere tener amigos y que resiente a su hermano gemelo por un incidente del pasado. Y realmente Ollie se nos muestra como un chico insoportable y grosero que ni merece la pena mencionarlo... pero la protagonista no es mejor con sus constantes quejas. Es obvio que la autora pretendía hacernos empatizar con Fern, pero su narración me resultó aburrida, solo cuando finalmente entran al mundo oculto que se nos presentó al principio la trama remonta, pero hay demasiados personajes secundarios, demasiadas clases para ser caballero mencionadas por encimita, sin mayor explicación. Hay mucho enfoque en las escaramuzas a las que se tienen que enfrentar los caballeros, pero pasan tan seguido que se pierde la emoción del combate.
Por supuesto, Fern y Ollie nacieron con un poder que solo ha poseído un par de personas en el pasado, así que sin importar que tengan la personalidad de una lechuga mustia, son los héroes en cada enfrentamiento y Fern, la antisocial, de repente tiene montones de amigos (básicamente nos explican que si no tenía amigos antes era porque tenía miedo y blablabla). El villano es todopoderoso y muy malote y solo hasta que este par de chicos de 15 años apareció, la orden de caballeros pudo pensar en estrategias para derrotarlo...
En general, ningún secundario está bien perfilado, los conocemos por nombre y poco más. Así que cuando llega la matazón ni pena se siente por los pobres. Hay un par de capítulos intercalados narrados por la madre de los gemelos, la que sale en el prólogo, pero son anticlimáticos y no sirven para dar trasfondo al misterio de su muerte, son como instantáneas deslucidas que están allí pero no aportan mucho.
En fin, que es una lectura entretenida, pero la clasificaría de middle-grade porque es bastante infantil, a pesar de las muertes sangrientas que se describen.
¿Qué Disfruté?
La idea del universo, esa dualidad día y noche. La vida secreta que podían llevar los caballeros en sus sueños.
¿Qué Prefiero Olvidar?
La protagonista es insoportable, y al ser la narradora, pues me daba mucha flojera leer, en realidad me dormí un par de veces mientras leía.
Citas
-No me eligieron como al resto de vosotros.
Ramesh parece divertido de verdad.
-¿Y qué más da? Hay muchas cosas para las que no me eligen en Ithr. Y hacerlas de todas formas no me convierte en menos persona que otros.
Un exceso de miedo nos vuelve de piedra, pero la ausencia absoluta hace que dejemos de ser humanos.
~~~
El prólogo está cargado de acción, aunque no se explica nada de cómo o por qué, sabemos que la narradora está en un mundo de sueños, hasta que ya no. Ese primer capítulo engancha tanto, que resulta decepcionante que el siguiente capítulo esté narrado por una chica sosa que se queja de la gente pero en el fondo quiere tener amigos y que resiente a su hermano gemelo por un incidente del pasado. Y realmente Ollie se nos muestra como un chico insoportable y grosero que ni merece la pena mencionarlo... pero la protagonista no es mejor con sus constantes quejas. Es obvio que la autora pretendía hacernos empatizar con Fern, pero su narración me resultó aburrida, solo cuando finalmente entran al mundo oculto que se nos presentó al principio la trama remonta, pero hay demasiados personajes secundarios, demasiadas clases para ser caballero mencionadas por encimita, sin mayor explicación. Hay mucho enfoque en las escaramuzas a las que se tienen que enfrentar los caballeros, pero pasan tan seguido que se pierde la emoción del combate.
Por supuesto, Fern y Ollie nacieron con un poder que solo ha poseído un par de personas en el pasado, así que sin importar que tengan la personalidad de una lechuga mustia, son los héroes en cada enfrentamiento y Fern, la antisocial, de repente tiene montones de amigos (básicamente nos explican que si no tenía amigos antes era porque tenía miedo y blablabla). El villano es todopoderoso y muy malote y solo hasta que este par de chicos de 15 años apareció, la orden de caballeros pudo pensar en estrategias para derrotarlo...
En general, ningún secundario está bien perfilado, los conocemos por nombre y poco más. Así que cuando llega la matazón ni pena se siente por los pobres. Hay un par de capítulos intercalados narrados por la madre de los gemelos, la que sale en el prólogo, pero son anticlimáticos y no sirven para dar trasfondo al misterio de su muerte, son como instantáneas deslucidas que están allí pero no aportan mucho.
En fin, que es una lectura entretenida, pero la clasificaría de middle-grade porque es bastante infantil, a pesar de las muertes sangrientas que se describen.
¿Qué Disfruté?
La idea del universo, esa dualidad día y noche. La vida secreta que podían llevar los caballeros en sus sueños.
¿Qué Prefiero Olvidar?
La protagonista es insoportable, y al ser la narradora, pues me daba mucha flojera leer, en realidad me dormí un par de veces mientras leía.
Citas
-No me eligieron como al resto de vosotros.
Ramesh parece divertido de verdad.
-¿Y qué más da? Hay muchas cosas para las que no me eligen en Ithr. Y hacerlas de todas formas no me convierte en menos persona que otros.
Un exceso de miedo nos vuelve de piedra, pero la ausencia absoluta hace que dejemos de ser humanos.
June 18, 2021
*Thank you to HotKeyBooks for sending a physical copy of this book my way!*
I think overall objectively this wasn’t a bad book, but it genuinely just didn’t feel like it was for me and that’s alright. I neither strongly liked nor disliked it, I feel pretty much neutral about the entire thing. Having said that, I don’t think I will read further books in this series if it continues.
I struggled with the writing on this one. I just felt like it was a bit juvenile for my taste in YA fiction. The characters speech felt really off and childish at times. I know they’re 15/16 but I just couldn’t engage well with them at all. The similes used were also a bit questionable. I feel like this book could’ve benefitted from a glossary, because honestly, I felt quite out of my depth with these words. Being completely transparent, at times I was reading this not having a clue what was happening.
The whole sibling rivalry aspect really made no sense to me and I don’t think it was portrayed overly well. At times, the way Fern spoke about her brother was completely bizarre. I would’ve liked a deeper exploration of their strained relationship, and also the loss of their mother. I think the fact that their lives in the real world were sort of dismissed as soon as the fantasy element came in was kind of a wasted opportunity.
Plot wise, when I did grasp the overarching concept, I quite enjoyed it. Like, it wasn’t the most original fantasy book, but it mostly made sense and flowed quite nicely. It did, however, take me forever to read and I think I just failed to care or connect with it unfortunately.
I think overall objectively this wasn’t a bad book, but it genuinely just didn’t feel like it was for me and that’s alright. I neither strongly liked nor disliked it, I feel pretty much neutral about the entire thing. Having said that, I don’t think I will read further books in this series if it continues.
I struggled with the writing on this one. I just felt like it was a bit juvenile for my taste in YA fiction. The characters speech felt really off and childish at times. I know they’re 15/16 but I just couldn’t engage well with them at all. The similes used were also a bit questionable. I feel like this book could’ve benefitted from a glossary, because honestly, I felt quite out of my depth with these words. Being completely transparent, at times I was reading this not having a clue what was happening.
The whole sibling rivalry aspect really made no sense to me and I don’t think it was portrayed overly well. At times, the way Fern spoke about her brother was completely bizarre. I would’ve liked a deeper exploration of their strained relationship, and also the loss of their mother. I think the fact that their lives in the real world were sort of dismissed as soon as the fantasy element came in was kind of a wasted opportunity.
Plot wise, when I did grasp the overarching concept, I quite enjoyed it. Like, it wasn’t the most original fantasy book, but it mostly made sense and flowed quite nicely. It did, however, take me forever to read and I think I just failed to care or connect with it unfortunately.
April 11, 2023
This is one of those books I put on my wishlist, but I don't think I'd ever gotten it if I hadn't put it on my wishlist for a bookswap. However, I had already seen that the price of this book had been lowered lately so I was kinda hoping I would get it. And since I'm staying with my parents for a week and all my books are at home I decided to just get started with the books I got in my swap right away. I had not expected to finish this one so soon though!
The first few chapters I needed some time to connect with the fantasy world and the characters, but the more I read the more invested I got and that's mostly because the heroine has such a nice journey throughout the book. She seems to judge harshly and doesn't forgive easily, but during her adventure she discovers that maybe not everything is someone else's fault. Maybe she herself also didn't help matters and maybe she is the key to start fixing stuff.
I also absolutely loved the politics in this book. Of course it's insanely scary what happens and how easy it seems to be to tell people that everyone who is different is a danger. I do think however that it's also realistic and a danger we're all way too familiar with. I especially loved though how there is this moment in the book where the characters realize that the villain is not just wanting power. He really DOES believe he's creating a better world this way.
The best part about the book is the dream version of London and the rest of the world. I always like the kind of stories where it feels like that other world is just one stap away. In this case we all enter this fantasy world in our dreams, but only a few can enter while being awake. I loved the mythology behind the world, how the world changed constantly and how the world could tell you so much about another person. I can't wait to play around in this world some more in the sequels.
The first few chapters I needed some time to connect with the fantasy world and the characters, but the more I read the more invested I got and that's mostly because the heroine has such a nice journey throughout the book. She seems to judge harshly and doesn't forgive easily, but during her adventure she discovers that maybe not everything is someone else's fault. Maybe she herself also didn't help matters and maybe she is the key to start fixing stuff.
I also absolutely loved the politics in this book. Of course it's insanely scary what happens and how easy it seems to be to tell people that everyone who is different is a danger. I do think however that it's also realistic and a danger we're all way too familiar with. I especially loved though how there is this moment in the book where the characters realize that the villain is not just wanting power. He really DOES believe he's creating a better world this way.
The best part about the book is the dream version of London and the rest of the world. I always like the kind of stories where it feels like that other world is just one stap away. In this case we all enter this fantasy world in our dreams, but only a few can enter while being awake. I loved the mythology behind the world, how the world changed constantly and how the world could tell you so much about another person. I can't wait to play around in this world some more in the sequels.
August 16, 2020
Completed reading this book.
Let me just say this, this is a mixture of mystery and suspense!
It is about how fern was left as a outsider and was not really welcomed into the fam bam.
She found out from her mother's past that she has a twin brother named Ollie.
She discovered a dream world with loads of magical vibes called Anwan which is apparently protected by the knights.
What made her frustrated was that her brother was the chosen one instead of her. Will she be able to prove them wrong that she is one of them as well.
I honestly adore this captivating world and action
Each page there were so many quotes which i highlighted because it tackles loads of topic like fanily, betrayal and politics etc.
If you like a captivated fantasy world do pick this book up honestly cannot wait for the 2nd book of this trilogy.
Thank you so much for the book @definitelybooks and buddyreading it with me @legenbooksdary
Let me just say this, this is a mixture of mystery and suspense!
It is about how fern was left as a outsider and was not really welcomed into the fam bam.
She found out from her mother's past that she has a twin brother named Ollie.
She discovered a dream world with loads of magical vibes called Anwan which is apparently protected by the knights.
What made her frustrated was that her brother was the chosen one instead of her. Will she be able to prove them wrong that she is one of them as well.
I honestly adore this captivating world and action
Each page there were so many quotes which i highlighted because it tackles loads of topic like fanily, betrayal and politics etc.
If you like a captivated fantasy world do pick this book up honestly cannot wait for the 2nd book of this trilogy.
Thank you so much for the book @definitelybooks and buddyreading it with me @legenbooksdary
June 11, 2020
Review originally posted on The Bibliophile Chronicles.
Midnight’s Twins is the first in an all new fantasy trilogy from Holly Race. The story follows fifteen year old Fern, who has always felt like an outsider in her family. When she uncovers secrets surrounding her mother’s past, Fern discovers the magical dream world of Annwn. Annwn is protected by Knights and when Fern’s twin brother Ollie is chosen to join them, Fern must do everything she can to prove she is one of them too.
Midnight’s Twins is one of those books that you just sink into and completely lose yourself in the world. The story is beautifully told and I absolutely loved Race’s lyrical dream like writing. The world building in this story is superb and Annwn is a fascinating place. I loved the slightly eerie atmosphere and the strange creatures that come alive in the world of dreams. The story has a really unique and engaging plot full of mystery. The plot is quite fast paced, giving you plenty of action as you learn about Annwn and the Knights.
The characters in Midnight’s Twins are really fascinating, and I loved watching them transform as they spent more time in Annwn. Fern has always been treated like the outsider, judged by her peers and people she meets in the street. Ollie is the popular and can do no wrong. I really enjoyed seeing their relationship change as well as the characters themselves grow. Midnight’s Twins is an addictive read and one that tackles a lot of topics – not just sibling relationships but also politics, family, grief and judging others.
Midnight’s Twins is a magic read that’s difficult to put down. If you’re looking for a vivid fantasy world to escape into, Midnight’s Twins is exactly what you’re looking for. I really enjoyed this one and I absolutely cannot wait to see what’s in store in book two.
Midnight’s Twins is the first in an all new fantasy trilogy from Holly Race. The story follows fifteen year old Fern, who has always felt like an outsider in her family. When she uncovers secrets surrounding her mother’s past, Fern discovers the magical dream world of Annwn. Annwn is protected by Knights and when Fern’s twin brother Ollie is chosen to join them, Fern must do everything she can to prove she is one of them too.
Midnight’s Twins is one of those books that you just sink into and completely lose yourself in the world. The story is beautifully told and I absolutely loved Race’s lyrical dream like writing. The world building in this story is superb and Annwn is a fascinating place. I loved the slightly eerie atmosphere and the strange creatures that come alive in the world of dreams. The story has a really unique and engaging plot full of mystery. The plot is quite fast paced, giving you plenty of action as you learn about Annwn and the Knights.
The characters in Midnight’s Twins are really fascinating, and I loved watching them transform as they spent more time in Annwn. Fern has always been treated like the outsider, judged by her peers and people she meets in the street. Ollie is the popular and can do no wrong. I really enjoyed seeing their relationship change as well as the characters themselves grow. Midnight’s Twins is an addictive read and one that tackles a lot of topics – not just sibling relationships but also politics, family, grief and judging others.
Midnight’s Twins is a magic read that’s difficult to put down. If you’re looking for a vivid fantasy world to escape into, Midnight’s Twins is exactly what you’re looking for. I really enjoyed this one and I absolutely cannot wait to see what’s in store in book two.
June 9, 2020
Fern discovers her mother's secret when she's 15, but when she realises her twin brother has been chosen instead of her, she is determined to change her fate and prove she should be a knight of Annwn too.
Annwn is the dreamworld, a mirror of the real world, where everyone goes when they sleep. It's full of magic but also filled with danger and nightmares, thankfully the knights are there to protect the dreamers from the worst of the perils but there are continuous threats to them too.
It turns out not only was Fern meant to be a knight, but she and her twin have an extremely rare gift. When the dangers from Annwn spill into Fern's waking life, she has to find a way to fight an enemy more powerful and dangerous than any of nightmares.
The book starts off with a very intriguing and mysterious prologue. It definitely got my interest and made me want to keep reading. What could these strange, dangerous treitre be? I also really wanted to know more about the complicated relationship between Fern and her family and what happened to make them this way. You can tell she cares about her family even though it seems that something horrific happened to cause a huge rift between them.
It was all so magical, reading about inspyre, which is the substance that the dreamworld is made of. I would love to be able to control it and make things out of my imagination! On the other hand it's terrifying to think that dreams and nightmares could be real.
Annwn is the dreamworld, a mirror of the real world, where everyone goes when they sleep. It's full of magic but also filled with danger and nightmares, thankfully the knights are there to protect the dreamers from the worst of the perils but there are continuous threats to them too.
It turns out not only was Fern meant to be a knight, but she and her twin have an extremely rare gift. When the dangers from Annwn spill into Fern's waking life, she has to find a way to fight an enemy more powerful and dangerous than any of nightmares.
The book starts off with a very intriguing and mysterious prologue. It definitely got my interest and made me want to keep reading. What could these strange, dangerous treitre be? I also really wanted to know more about the complicated relationship between Fern and her family and what happened to make them this way. You can tell she cares about her family even though it seems that something horrific happened to cause a huge rift between them.
It was all so magical, reading about inspyre, which is the substance that the dreamworld is made of. I would love to be able to control it and make things out of my imagination! On the other hand it's terrifying to think that dreams and nightmares could be real.
June 3, 2021
Tengo sentimientos encontrados con este libro. Por una parte tiene un mundo bien planteado y curioso, con unos personajes grises que no sabes del todo por donde te va a salir, unos toquecillos oscuros que le dan otro tono y unos giros que no son muchos pero animan la lectura. Como hila las cosas hacia el final y varios de los giros, aunque me los esperara, me han gustado mucho.
Pero por otra parte no he llegado a conectar con los personajes (fuera de los hermanos con poco más me quedé y con ellos ni fú ni fá), los toques oscuros a veces no terminan de encajar con el resto de la historia y en general esperaba más: del malo, de los personajes, de la historia... Parte de ello es porque hasta el final no está la acción real y hasta entonces era todo un poco confuso sin saber del todo que esperar pero tampoco terminar de engancharme.
Reseña: https://librosdelcielo.blogspot.com/2...
Pero por otra parte no he llegado a conectar con los personajes (fuera de los hermanos con poco más me quedé y con ellos ni fú ni fá), los toques oscuros a veces no terminan de encajar con el resto de la historia y en general esperaba más: del malo, de los personajes, de la historia... Parte de ello es porque hasta el final no está la acción real y hasta entonces era todo un poco confuso sin saber del todo que esperar pero tampoco terminar de engancharme.
Reseña: https://librosdelcielo.blogspot.com/2...
October 10, 2021
Midnight's Twins is a fantasy novel about dreams and nightmares. The two main characters Fern and Ollie (twins) discover they can control and protect people when they are sleep from their worst nightmares. However, it is not just them in this world. They realise a whole new existence when asleep, full of other people with powers both for good and evil.
This was an interesting take on the genre and was well done. At times I was left a little confused by all the terms and characters. But I am excited to read the second book in the series.
This was an interesting take on the genre and was well done. At times I was left a little confused by all the terms and characters. But I am excited to read the second book in the series.
May 15, 2020
Midnight's Twins is set in a beautifully built world, rich in legend and texture. As both fantasy and allegory it is on point for where we're at today, and brings important problems to life. Anyone who has ever felt that they are different should read this and will love it. Serious points slam home at amazing pace under battles, dreams and drama. Legends and a love of story fills out heart-quickening and heartbreaking plots. The only problem is that it ends, with so much more to happen, I NEED to know what happens next.
June 15, 2022
A great debut, full of dream magic and the dangers of othering people
The dream world, Annwn, is a very alternate London – and I loved it. Much of the London seen is Central London – the bit I’m very familiar with – and it felt so authentic. It’s always been quite magical to me, thanks to an overactive imagination, so seeing that magical side come alive thanks to the power of dreams was so much fun.
Woven into the fabric of Annwn is a lot of familiar mythology with a new slant. There’s a lot of Arthurian legends mention, but always in the background and never making the story feel like a retelling but rather anchoring it to concepts I already know. It made it feel more real. I’m hoping later books explore this more, particularly the fact that he ended up a traitor! All these references to mythology enrich the world, making it so much bigger than seen.
I really liked the way it tackled the politics of the other – through the persona of Merauit. It’s so interesting to see populism tackled in YA without it being a dystopia that’s already happened. Instead, MIDNIGHT’S TWINS sets a world where these ideas are taking root. The path is set to become a dystopia, if nothing is done about it.
The final twist was so good – I’d only seen half of it coming. I’d seen quite a few coming, because they were well set up and a lot of the plot fell into common beats (nothing wrong with that, and making a story feel familiar but unique at the same time is a good way to make an engaging – plus it means you can then really unleash a twist at the end!)
I will be very interested to read the next book when it comes out.
The dream world, Annwn, is a very alternate London – and I loved it. Much of the London seen is Central London – the bit I’m very familiar with – and it felt so authentic. It’s always been quite magical to me, thanks to an overactive imagination, so seeing that magical side come alive thanks to the power of dreams was so much fun.
Woven into the fabric of Annwn is a lot of familiar mythology with a new slant. There’s a lot of Arthurian legends mention, but always in the background and never making the story feel like a retelling but rather anchoring it to concepts I already know. It made it feel more real. I’m hoping later books explore this more, particularly the fact that he ended up a traitor! All these references to mythology enrich the world, making it so much bigger than seen.
I really liked the way it tackled the politics of the other – through the persona of Merauit. It’s so interesting to see populism tackled in YA without it being a dystopia that’s already happened. Instead, MIDNIGHT’S TWINS sets a world where these ideas are taking root. The path is set to become a dystopia, if nothing is done about it.
The final twist was so good – I’d only seen half of it coming. I’d seen quite a few coming, because they were well set up and a lot of the plot fell into common beats (nothing wrong with that, and making a story feel familiar but unique at the same time is a good way to make an engaging – plus it means you can then really unleash a twist at the end!)
I will be very interested to read the next book when it comes out.
July 13, 2020
With fast paced action scenes and plenty of twists (including a few I didn't see coming!) Midnight's Twins was hard to put down.
This novel has a fantastic concept with a world everyone will want to visit. The dream world, Annwn, is full of endless wonder and magic, from dolphins in the Thames to a castle hidden in St Paul's Cathedral. London was both familiar and utterly alien.
Midnight's Twins had an undercurrent of Hunger Games-worthy politics, where dangerous, influential figures are given a magical boost. As a result, Midnight's Twin also brilliant explores the danger of being different, or an outlier, in a world that is rapidly being told to distrust and fear you. Some of the most chilling scenes in this novel occurred in the real world, where the monsters were human inside and out.
I was completely drawn in by Fern and Ollie's complicated, messy sibling relationship. There is so much character growth over the course of the novel for both twins, who realise there is more that brings them together than divides them. Both Fern and Ollie have to learn to navigate loneliness and friendship, and conquer the fears which accompany letting others in and allowing yourself to be vulnerable.
This novel has a fantastic concept with a world everyone will want to visit. The dream world, Annwn, is full of endless wonder and magic, from dolphins in the Thames to a castle hidden in St Paul's Cathedral. London was both familiar and utterly alien.
Midnight's Twins had an undercurrent of Hunger Games-worthy politics, where dangerous, influential figures are given a magical boost. As a result, Midnight's Twin also brilliant explores the danger of being different, or an outlier, in a world that is rapidly being told to distrust and fear you. Some of the most chilling scenes in this novel occurred in the real world, where the monsters were human inside and out.
I was completely drawn in by Fern and Ollie's complicated, messy sibling relationship. There is so much character growth over the course of the novel for both twins, who realise there is more that brings them together than divides them. Both Fern and Ollie have to learn to navigate loneliness and friendship, and conquer the fears which accompany letting others in and allowing yourself to be vulnerable.
October 18, 2021
Ha sido una lectura facinante. Si pudiera darle más estrellas lo haría. Es de ese tipo de libros que aunque exista un problema principal, existen otros pequeños que van entretejiendo una trama más extensa y cautivadora. He conectado con Fern, quién a pesar de haber tenido un pasado complicado con su hermano, Ollie, y que eso le afectó en el futuro, supo cómo ir superando cada capa que había construido ante ella; y Ollie, vaya que también me ha sorprendido, pese a ser el hermano molesto, y que parece traicionar a su hermana, tiene en su interior un alma completamente diferente. Pero eso, lo irán descubriendo conforme vayan pasando las páginas.
RECOMENDADO al 100%
RECOMENDADO al 100%
June 30, 2020
4.5 stars!
This was SO GOOD. It reminded me a lot of a grown-up, slightly grittier and more magical “Wrinkle in Time”, which is a big compliment. The mythology was fleshed out enough to be enjoyable but not so much it was overwhelming or boring, and even though the story had elements that were familiar it wasn’t tired or predictable.
I cannot wait for the next book in the trilogy- this is one of my favourite MG/YA books of 2020.
This was SO GOOD. It reminded me a lot of a grown-up, slightly grittier and more magical “Wrinkle in Time”, which is a big compliment. The mythology was fleshed out enough to be enjoyable but not so much it was overwhelming or boring, and even though the story had elements that were familiar it wasn’t tired or predictable.
I cannot wait for the next book in the trilogy- this is one of my favourite MG/YA books of 2020.
June 9, 2020
I really struggled to connect with this story, I guess just wasn’t my thing. I think it was probably too young a YA for me , but I am sure others would enjoy it, I guess I’m just not the target audience or it feels that way
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
September 4, 2020
Come on, we all love a story where the outcast turns into a powerful and strong heroine. No longer the weak and despised.
Midnight Twins was a refreshing read. I'm glad I picked this up after Chain of Gold. I whizzed through this book in 2 days! I don't even remember the last time I read this quickly.
Here are the things I thoroughly enjoyed about Midnight Twins:
The whole concept of it all
Just fantastic! The originality is what keeps stories fresh. Days after reading Midnight Sun I actually started questioning whether the events in his book can be real.
The friendships
You can tell that the friendships forged are true and unbreakable.
Character development
I thoroughly enjoyed watching our main characters grow. And it's not just her growth as a character but her relationships forged with those around her. You will see her transform from an ice block to someone with deep feelings.
World Building
Race created a whole other world, a dream land called Annwyn. There are titles and there are terms, but they are registered so easily in my head.
Special Mention: Page 177 Revelation
Blew me away. I DID NOT SEE IT COMING AT ALL. This revelation gave me shivers down my spine.
All in all, I recalled not wanting to finish the book as the sequel will only be out in 2021. ON THE OTHER HAND, I actually didn't want a sequel because I can't bear seeing the characters I love go through another round of pain and suffering. There was enough pain in Midnight Twins.
Lastly, a very prominent takeaway I got from this book is that sometimes, when we believe something for so long(even if it is not true), that when people tell us otherwise, we just don't believe them (even when it's true)
Thank you Pansing for sending me a copy of Midnight Twins for review! Midnight Twins is available in all good bookstores!
Midnight Twins was a refreshing read. I'm glad I picked this up after Chain of Gold. I whizzed through this book in 2 days! I don't even remember the last time I read this quickly.
Here are the things I thoroughly enjoyed about Midnight Twins:
The whole concept of it all
Just fantastic! The originality is what keeps stories fresh. Days after reading Midnight Sun I actually started questioning whether the events in his book can be real.
The friendships
You can tell that the friendships forged are true and unbreakable.
Character development
I thoroughly enjoyed watching our main characters grow. And it's not just her growth as a character but her relationships forged with those around her. You will see her transform from an ice block to someone with deep feelings.
World Building
Race created a whole other world, a dream land called Annwyn. There are titles and there are terms, but they are registered so easily in my head.
Special Mention: Page 177 Revelation
Blew me away. I DID NOT SEE IT COMING AT ALL. This revelation gave me shivers down my spine.
All in all, I recalled not wanting to finish the book as the sequel will only be out in 2021. ON THE OTHER HAND, I actually didn't want a sequel because I can't bear seeing the characters I love go through another round of pain and suffering. There was enough pain in Midnight Twins.
Lastly, a very prominent takeaway I got from this book is that sometimes, when we believe something for so long(even if it is not true), that when people tell us otherwise, we just don't believe them (even when it's true)
Thank you Pansing for sending me a copy of Midnight Twins for review! Midnight Twins is available in all good bookstores!
October 3, 2021
After a devastating fire burned her face and destroyed her relationship with her twin brother Olly, Fern doesn't feel herself in her own skin anymore.
But when Fern turns 15, she discovers the world of Annwn. Annwn is the dream mirror of our world, where Dreamers walk in their slumber, their dreams playing out all around them. A mysterious place that feeds our own world - as what kind of people would we be without a place to nourish our imaginations?
Annwn is a world where dreams are real, but where there's dreams, there's nightmares too. And that's what the Knights are for.
The Knights protect Dreamers from these unconscious fears, and Fern is determined to prove that she can be one of them.
But Annwn is a fragile world, threatened by nightmares that are becoming more and more difficult for the Knights to defeat. Something dark is infiltrating Fern's safe haven, something that must be stopped at all costs...
Wow I really enjoyed this book!
Holly Race's writing was intoxicating but also accessible. I found the story so easy to read, especially as I got more and more into it. This was Race's debut novel, and I'm so excited to see what she does when she has more experience. I also can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy!🤩
Another thing I really enjoyed was that the characters weren't perfect. They were either obviously flawed or revealed to have made mistakes in the past. Fern didn't rise to challenges like a perfect hero; she was terrified, lacked faith in herself and doubted herself constantly, something she had to fight to overcome.
While this book is a fan of dramatic reveals and suspenseful action scenes, it's also about friendship, loss andgrowing as a person.
My main complaint would have to be how similar I found big aspects of this book to be to other magic-driven books. But at the same time, I can't imagine how difficult it is to write a book in this genre without having people try to compare it to every other pre-existing story...
One thing I definitely would've loved is if the book had more than one (Fern's) point of view, I really think that would've added so much to the story. Maybe it's included in the rest of the trilogy!
September was the first month back of Offy Library's YA book club since covid hit last year. I was so happy to discuss this with the group as our first read, especially since it isn't a book I'd heard of before, so I probably wouldn't have ever read it otherwise
Side note - the cover is so gorgeous😍 Sophie McDonnell has earned herself a new follower
Recommended for fans of: 'The Trouble with Perfect', 'Harry Potter' and 'Divergent'
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
But when Fern turns 15, she discovers the world of Annwn. Annwn is the dream mirror of our world, where Dreamers walk in their slumber, their dreams playing out all around them. A mysterious place that feeds our own world - as what kind of people would we be without a place to nourish our imaginations?
Annwn is a world where dreams are real, but where there's dreams, there's nightmares too. And that's what the Knights are for.
The Knights protect Dreamers from these unconscious fears, and Fern is determined to prove that she can be one of them.
But Annwn is a fragile world, threatened by nightmares that are becoming more and more difficult for the Knights to defeat. Something dark is infiltrating Fern's safe haven, something that must be stopped at all costs...
Wow I really enjoyed this book!
Holly Race's writing was intoxicating but also accessible. I found the story so easy to read, especially as I got more and more into it. This was Race's debut novel, and I'm so excited to see what she does when she has more experience. I also can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy!🤩
Another thing I really enjoyed was that the characters weren't perfect. They were either obviously flawed or revealed to have made mistakes in the past. Fern didn't rise to challenges like a perfect hero; she was terrified, lacked faith in herself and doubted herself constantly, something she had to fight to overcome.
While this book is a fan of dramatic reveals and suspenseful action scenes, it's also about friendship, loss andgrowing as a person.
My main complaint would have to be how similar I found big aspects of this book to be to other magic-driven books. But at the same time, I can't imagine how difficult it is to write a book in this genre without having people try to compare it to every other pre-existing story...
One thing I definitely would've loved is if the book had more than one (Fern's) point of view, I really think that would've added so much to the story. Maybe it's included in the rest of the trilogy!
September was the first month back of Offy Library's YA book club since covid hit last year. I was so happy to discuss this with the group as our first read, especially since it isn't a book I'd heard of before, so I probably wouldn't have ever read it otherwise
Side note - the cover is so gorgeous😍 Sophie McDonnell has earned herself a new follower
Recommended for fans of: 'The Trouble with Perfect', 'Harry Potter' and 'Divergent'
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
September 7, 2021
Set in London, the Thanes of the dreaming world recruit new adherents when they turn 15. These children are trained to be the guardians of mortal dreamers, to ensure that they do not die as they sleep.
An interesting story about fallible teens negotiating responsibility, Fern has been betrayed a few too many times to trust anyone, which colours her opinions of those around her and this often leads her to assume the worst of them. The characters really carry the story and their emotional interpretations of their world help to add resonance to everything.
Thematically, this is a story about Othering and violence against those who are different. The main character looks albino and carries the scars of physical bullying, but the climate of the story is that of political unrest sown by a popular leader who uses supernatural charisma to turn "normal" people against anyone who seems different. (This is not surprising considering the influence of Brexit and the Trump Presidency). The main character's paranoia is an isolating force that seems to mirror the aggression leveled toward her, and this is a soft-serve illustration of how radicalisation could go down.
I do wish that some of the characters weren't so ignorant. It made me wince when a character was referred to as "very wise" for understanding some basics of human nature. The biggest twist in the plot was amusing but not impossible to guess at, as it had been foreshadowed a bit. I often find these things a little rewarding though.. when you can follow the clues and get it right it can be fun.
The end of the book seemed to come suddenly and without a whole heap of resolution.. fit for the setup of the next novel I guess.
An interesting story about fallible teens negotiating responsibility, Fern has been betrayed a few too many times to trust anyone, which colours her opinions of those around her and this often leads her to assume the worst of them. The characters really carry the story and their emotional interpretations of their world help to add resonance to everything.
Thematically, this is a story about Othering and violence against those who are different. The main character looks albino and carries the scars of physical bullying, but the climate of the story is that of political unrest sown by a popular leader who uses supernatural charisma to turn "normal" people against anyone who seems different. (This is not surprising considering the influence of Brexit and the Trump Presidency). The main character's paranoia is an isolating force that seems to mirror the aggression leveled toward her, and this is a soft-serve illustration of how radicalisation could go down.
I do wish that some of the characters weren't so ignorant. It made me wince when a character was referred to as "very wise" for understanding some basics of human nature. The biggest twist in the plot was amusing but not impossible to guess at, as it had been foreshadowed a bit. I often find these things a little rewarding though.. when you can follow the clues and get it right it can be fun.
The end of the book seemed to come suddenly and without a whole heap of resolution.. fit for the setup of the next novel I guess.
January 8, 2021
This was okay, but I feel like the pace was quite slow. I liked the characters, but there weren’t many stand out ones, except Ollie since his and Fern’s relationship was probably the most engaging. I’m a twin myself so I was curious to see the dynamic between the two. At first I thought Ollie was just a typical, rude and annoying brother, but his reasoning made sense about his grudge with Fern and it was understandable which I liked. It’s typically a biased story anyway since it’s told only from Fern’s perspective. I think it would’ve been nice to hear from the two, but I feel like we were realising things and learning along with Fern and I guess it made certain moments more surprising to hear when it came to it.
I enjoyed the premise of a fantasy set in modern day London since I haven’t read many fantasy books that use a modern lifestyle as the backdrop for a fantasy, which makes you curious to see how it is incorporated especially since our main characters are just living their every day lives in London during the book's introduction. I thought the transition of modern and fantasy life seemed pretty seamless when it was first presented. The idea of it being a dream world was interesting, but I think it was kind of lacking a bit of atmosphere for a dream world, where I’m assuming the possibilities are endless. I was hoping it would seem more otherworldly than it seemed to in the book.
There were many moments I enjoyed and the ending left me curious to see what could happen in the next book. A good read overall, but I would’ve liked to have been slightly more tense reading it and for there to be more action, especially with a pretty intriguing opening.
I enjoyed the premise of a fantasy set in modern day London since I haven’t read many fantasy books that use a modern lifestyle as the backdrop for a fantasy, which makes you curious to see how it is incorporated especially since our main characters are just living their every day lives in London during the book's introduction. I thought the transition of modern and fantasy life seemed pretty seamless when it was first presented. The idea of it being a dream world was interesting, but I think it was kind of lacking a bit of atmosphere for a dream world, where I’m assuming the possibilities are endless. I was hoping it would seem more otherworldly than it seemed to in the book.
There were many moments I enjoyed and the ending left me curious to see what could happen in the next book. A good read overall, but I would’ve liked to have been slightly more tense reading it and for there to be more action, especially with a pretty intriguing opening.
June 23, 2020
This follows the twins Fern and Ollie who used to be good friends growing up but then Ollie becomes popular and Fern does not and Ollie is in a group that bullies Fern.
Fern struggles in every day life because people won't stop staring at her. When her brother Ollie gets selected to join the knights of a dream world called Annwn and she does not, she tries everything she can to become a knight as well. Their mother was a knight and this is the only way to figure out how she might have died.
I enjoyed this book although it feels like a premise I have read several times before. Not so much the dreamworld alternate reality of it but more the whole chosen ones story. I thought it was pretty predictable and I had guessed who the golden Treitre was from the start and I also guessed the ending. This isn't necessarily a bad thing but I do like to be surprised every now and then.
I did like the characters in it and my favourite character was Samson. Fern and Ollie were okay characters too but I had a hard time warming up to Ollie because of everything that has happened but I think he really grew throughout the story. I think the character development was very well done as I could see clear growth in both Ollie and Fern.
Fern struggles in every day life because people won't stop staring at her. When her brother Ollie gets selected to join the knights of a dream world called Annwn and she does not, she tries everything she can to become a knight as well. Their mother was a knight and this is the only way to figure out how she might have died.
I enjoyed this book although it feels like a premise I have read several times before. Not so much the dreamworld alternate reality of it but more the whole chosen ones story. I thought it was pretty predictable and I had guessed who the golden Treitre was from the start and I also guessed the ending. This isn't necessarily a bad thing but I do like to be surprised every now and then.
I did like the characters in it and my favourite character was Samson. Fern and Ollie were okay characters too but I had a hard time warming up to Ollie because of everything that has happened but I think he really grew throughout the story. I think the character development was very well done as I could see clear growth in both Ollie and Fern.
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