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Seeder Wars #1
Seeder Shadow Wars
DATING AND HIGH SCHOOL: HARD ENOUGH. NOW ADD ASSASSINS.
Avoiding assassination wasn’t on Mel’s to-do list for her junior year. Learning she wasn’t human hadn’t made the list, either.
An only child with overprotective parents, Melody Walters just wants a drama-free year—and to be able to date. She gains the interest of more than one suitor, but doesn’t realize any one of them could be an enemy on the hunt. For her, the dating scene could prove deadly.
Mel discovers she’s a member of a botanical race, forced to hide their daughters in the human world until they mature enough for their powers to bloom. Something goes wrong with her blooming process, breaking her cover and jeopardizing the lives of her protectors and the large family she’d never known about.
With the enemy threat ever-looming, in a rush to master her new powers before she’s stranded in the human world forever, Mel struggles to decide who she can trust and if the sacrifice being asked of her is too great.
Avoiding assassination wasn’t on Mel’s to-do list for her junior year. Learning she wasn’t human hadn’t made the list, either.
An only child with overprotective parents, Melody Walters just wants a drama-free year—and to be able to date. She gains the interest of more than one suitor, but doesn’t realize any one of them could be an enemy on the hunt. For her, the dating scene could prove deadly.
Mel discovers she’s a member of a botanical race, forced to hide their daughters in the human world until they mature enough for their powers to bloom. Something goes wrong with her blooming process, breaking her cover and jeopardizing the lives of her protectors and the large family she’d never known about.
With the enemy threat ever-looming, in a rush to master her new powers before she’s stranded in the human world forever, Mel struggles to decide who she can trust and if the sacrifice being asked of her is too great.
- GenresFantasy
333 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2021
35 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
J. Houser
23 books24 followersJ. Houser has spent most of her life in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Her second language is Polish and she uses neither her A.A.S. in Culinary Arts nor her B.S. in University Studies. Instead, she takes snippets of dreams and a lot of ‘what-ifs,’ and is feverishly working toward her goal of being a multi-genre hybrid author. She’s a firm lover of both Jane Austen and Stargate, and when writing is usually also snuggling with her spicy rescue fur-child, Sweetie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 27, 2022
Oh my goodness, y’all, I definitely was eager to read this book when I read the synopsis, but I had no idea what I was getting into. I REALLY enjoyed the heck out of it! It was one of those books that’s a page-turner, but you don’t realize how fast you’re turning the pages until you look up and notice that you’re already halfway through it. I stayed up WAY too late reading because I simply did not want to stop, and that’s pretty rare for me.
“‘Our people are so much stronger together, than we are alone. We’re better when we fight side by side. I don’t want to fight with you. I want you by my side.’”
The pacing of the book was fantastic, and also constantly kept me on my toes. At first, I thought the book was just going to be all high school drama, but I was so wrong. There were so many curves and twists that drove the plot well outside the confines of the school halls and kept me 100% sucked in, chapter after chapter. While there was definitely some high school drama, these kids had to deal with so much more than the typical teenager, and it was really fun watching the story unfold.
ALSO, J. Houser did a fantastic job of keeping me suspicious literally from start to finish. I read the synopsis, so I knew that there were assassins after Mel from the get-go and therefore questioned EVERY male character’s intentions up to the last chapter, I kid you not. Every time she was alone with a boy, I was internally screaming like when you’re watching a scary movie and the characters start walking to where the killer is. On top of questioning who was good and who was bad, I was so beyond torn between the love interests (inserts crying face emoji) and kept swinging between them like a pendulum. Seriously, I literally cried over this (and several other emotional moments in the book), because I was so invested in these characters.
Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would absolutely recommend it! However, because this book is about high schoolers and I think teens are the most-likely audience, there are a few things I should warn you about if you’re a teen (or parent of a teen). There are some scenes in the book that would be described as mildly spicy if the characters were adults, but because they’re teens it felt spicier, if that makes sense. There is an *almost* sex scene, a couple of assault scenes (one of which borders on sexual assault, but not really… it’s hard to explain, but proceed with caution if forced kissing triggers you), and more than a handful of kissing scenes. The consensual scenes are super sweet, and nothing sexually nefarious actually happens. But still, you deserve to know what you’re getting into. There’s also a lot of violence (but not super graphic), at least one curse word that I remember, and obviously some fantasy elements. Nevertheless, I still rate it 5 out of 5 personally, because the writing and story were honestly on point and I genuinely had such a good time reading this book.
“‘Our people are so much stronger together, than we are alone. We’re better when we fight side by side. I don’t want to fight with you. I want you by my side.’”
The pacing of the book was fantastic, and also constantly kept me on my toes. At first, I thought the book was just going to be all high school drama, but I was so wrong. There were so many curves and twists that drove the plot well outside the confines of the school halls and kept me 100% sucked in, chapter after chapter. While there was definitely some high school drama, these kids had to deal with so much more than the typical teenager, and it was really fun watching the story unfold.
ALSO, J. Houser did a fantastic job of keeping me suspicious literally from start to finish. I read the synopsis, so I knew that there were assassins after Mel from the get-go and therefore questioned EVERY male character’s intentions up to the last chapter, I kid you not. Every time she was alone with a boy, I was internally screaming like when you’re watching a scary movie and the characters start walking to where the killer is. On top of questioning who was good and who was bad, I was so beyond torn between the love interests (inserts crying face emoji) and kept swinging between them like a pendulum. Seriously, I literally cried over this (and several other emotional moments in the book), because I was so invested in these characters.
Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and would absolutely recommend it! However, because this book is about high schoolers and I think teens are the most-likely audience, there are a few things I should warn you about if you’re a teen (or parent of a teen). There are some scenes in the book that would be described as mildly spicy if the characters were adults, but because they’re teens it felt spicier, if that makes sense. There is an *almost* sex scene, a couple of assault scenes (one of which borders on sexual assault, but not really… it’s hard to explain, but proceed with caution if forced kissing triggers you), and more than a handful of kissing scenes. The consensual scenes are super sweet, and nothing sexually nefarious actually happens. But still, you deserve to know what you’re getting into. There’s also a lot of violence (but not super graphic), at least one curse word that I remember, and obviously some fantasy elements. Nevertheless, I still rate it 5 out of 5 personally, because the writing and story were honestly on point and I genuinely had such a good time reading this book.
October 9, 2021
The description of this book was intriguing enough for me to purchase it. While the prologue seems distant from the first few chapters, it all starts to make sense as the story goes on. The first chapters seem to focus more on romantic interests, but it is well worth paying attention to, as there are many hints to what lies ahead. The author has put a lot of well-thought-out detail into the story. Then the second half of the book takes a dramatic turn, making it impossible to put down. Finishing this book leaves you wanting more of the story. Thank goodness J Houser has another book on the way because I just have to know what happens next!
Side note: It can get a little racy in the romantic parts (without being over the top). so perhaps this is best suited to high school reading age rather than the younger reader.
Side note: It can get a little racy in the romantic parts (without being over the top). so perhaps this is best suited to high school reading age rather than the younger reader.
September 23, 2021
Seeder Shadow Wars (Seeder Wars)
by J. Houser
Dating and High School: Hard Enough. Now Add Assassins.
Avoiding assassination wasn’t on Mel’s to-do list for her junior year. Learning she wasn’t human hadn’t made the list, either.
An only child with overprotective parents, Melody Walters just wants a drama-free year—and to be able to date. She gains the interest of more than one suitor but doesn’t realize any one of them could be an enemy on the hunt. For her, the dating scene could prove deadly.
Mel discovers she’s a member of a botanical race, forced to hide their daughters in the human world until they mature enough for their powers to bloom. Something goes wrong with her blooming process, breaking her cover and jeopardizing the lives of her protectors and the large family she’d never known about.
With the enemy threat ever-looming, in a rush to master her new powers before she’s stranded in the human world forever, Mel struggles to decide who she can trust and if the sacrifice being asked of her is too great.
Modern take with Fantastic and vivid world building. The plot is strong, creative, understandable, and entertaining. It is an easy read and centered around the lives of typical teenagers or is it? The characters are complex but relatable so much, so you become involved in their decisions and root for them. They are young adults making adult decisions. There is a coming-of-age theme, but it is not what you would expect.
by J. Houser
Dating and High School: Hard Enough. Now Add Assassins.
Avoiding assassination wasn’t on Mel’s to-do list for her junior year. Learning she wasn’t human hadn’t made the list, either.
An only child with overprotective parents, Melody Walters just wants a drama-free year—and to be able to date. She gains the interest of more than one suitor but doesn’t realize any one of them could be an enemy on the hunt. For her, the dating scene could prove deadly.
Mel discovers she’s a member of a botanical race, forced to hide their daughters in the human world until they mature enough for their powers to bloom. Something goes wrong with her blooming process, breaking her cover and jeopardizing the lives of her protectors and the large family she’d never known about.
With the enemy threat ever-looming, in a rush to master her new powers before she’s stranded in the human world forever, Mel struggles to decide who she can trust and if the sacrifice being asked of her is too great.
Modern take with Fantastic and vivid world building. The plot is strong, creative, understandable, and entertaining. It is an easy read and centered around the lives of typical teenagers or is it? The characters are complex but relatable so much, so you become involved in their decisions and root for them. They are young adults making adult decisions. There is a coming-of-age theme, but it is not what you would expect.
January 10, 2022
I was given a free copy of this book from the author through voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review. I loved this book! The author came up with a completely unique idea and story for their book. The story was extremely well executed. The characters were well done and likeable and progressed well as the book went along. The fighting scenes were descriptive and well thought out. I love the mystery behind you don’t know who the good guys and the bad guys are. I wouldn’t change one thing about this book. I am excited to see what happens in book 2.
July 27, 2022
"I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review of it."
So I've got to say I love this book! Absolutely love it. It does have a kind of slow beginning but it left me wanting more. It has a beautiful world description. And doesn't infor dump either. The writing and prose in this book is accessible and easy to understand. Once it took off I couldn't put it down and finished it in 2 days. Absolutely awesome book and love the character development as well. I did have questions that for the majority were all pretty well answered in the book. It does keep you guessing. I did also have some issues with how the seeders do things but it's nothing major and nothing that in a way didn't also make sense in their world. Over all its a great pretty light hearted read (in my opinion) and I can't wait to see where these characters go and what else the author has in store!
So I've got to say I love this book! Absolutely love it. It does have a kind of slow beginning but it left me wanting more. It has a beautiful world description. And doesn't infor dump either. The writing and prose in this book is accessible and easy to understand. Once it took off I couldn't put it down and finished it in 2 days. Absolutely awesome book and love the character development as well. I did have questions that for the majority were all pretty well answered in the book. It does keep you guessing. I did also have some issues with how the seeders do things but it's nothing major and nothing that in a way didn't also make sense in their world. Over all its a great pretty light hearted read (in my opinion) and I can't wait to see where these characters go and what else the author has in store!
December 11, 2021
First book in this YA series and I’m hooked! Well written with an exciting and intriguing storyline that grabs you and holds you to the very end. The world building is fantastic and the characters are intriguing and our female mc Mel struggles as she tries to find her way. it’s a fab start and I am eager to read more!
September 30, 2022
I feel I should start this review by saying that I’m really not the target audience for this – at least not for the first third of it. I’m not a YA high school love triangle person, and since the main character of Seeder Shadow Wars is in the dark about how she’s in a fantasy story for the first ten chapters of the book, what’s left is YA high school love triangles.
Now, it’s a well-written YA high school love triangle story, with a lot of refreshing twists and expansions on the genre. For one thing, I was surprised by how much I liked everyone. The characters communicate with each other about their feelings and demonstrate their care for each other in a way that I often find lacking in this kind of story. Additionally, the ostensibly ordinary YA romance story is filled with hints building up towards the fantasy genre reveal, adding interest and intrigue at every turn. Once the fantasy plot is in full swing, Mel has to choose between living in the magical world or the non-magical world. While this is a tale as old as time, for once, the non-magical world is actually a viable option. Mel’s human parents and friends are legitimately good people that she has no reason to run away from, and I believe that her decision is a difficult one. Also, the Seeders and Ivies are completely unique fantasy creatures with their own original magic system. Suffice to say that if you’re looking for something that feels familiar in many ways and new in others, this is the book for you.
What gives me pause about Seeder Shadow Wars is that I really couldn’t see a place for me in it. I love fantasy, but this isn’t a fantasy world that I could imagine escaping into. The Seeders and Ivies are interesting, and there are just enough hints dropped to make me believe that there is more to learn about them and more grey areas to explore beyond the super strict “good guy/bad guy” narrative we’re presented with here… but the magic system and social structure as presented in this book are excessively bioessentialist and heteronormative. Girls are this way, and boys are that way, biologically and socially. Girl magic functions as a support to boy magic. Girls and boys mate for life. There’s a moment where the characters discuss how carefully the Seeders make sure that the girls don’t interact with their brothers so they won’t accidentally fall in love with them, and I have to wonder, are there gay Seeders? Or bi or pan Seeders? What about trans, aro, or ace Seeders? I know who this story was written for, and it’s a lovely story for them, but it wasn’t written for me.
Now, it’s a well-written YA high school love triangle story, with a lot of refreshing twists and expansions on the genre. For one thing, I was surprised by how much I liked everyone. The characters communicate with each other about their feelings and demonstrate their care for each other in a way that I often find lacking in this kind of story. Additionally, the ostensibly ordinary YA romance story is filled with hints building up towards the fantasy genre reveal, adding interest and intrigue at every turn. Once the fantasy plot is in full swing, Mel has to choose between living in the magical world or the non-magical world. While this is a tale as old as time, for once, the non-magical world is actually a viable option. Mel’s human parents and friends are legitimately good people that she has no reason to run away from, and I believe that her decision is a difficult one. Also, the Seeders and Ivies are completely unique fantasy creatures with their own original magic system. Suffice to say that if you’re looking for something that feels familiar in many ways and new in others, this is the book for you.
What gives me pause about Seeder Shadow Wars is that I really couldn’t see a place for me in it. I love fantasy, but this isn’t a fantasy world that I could imagine escaping into. The Seeders and Ivies are interesting, and there are just enough hints dropped to make me believe that there is more to learn about them and more grey areas to explore beyond the super strict “good guy/bad guy” narrative we’re presented with here… but the magic system and social structure as presented in this book are excessively bioessentialist and heteronormative. Girls are this way, and boys are that way, biologically and socially. Girl magic functions as a support to boy magic. Girls and boys mate for life. There’s a moment where the characters discuss how carefully the Seeders make sure that the girls don’t interact with their brothers so they won’t accidentally fall in love with them, and I have to wonder, are there gay Seeders? Or bi or pan Seeders? What about trans, aro, or ace Seeders? I know who this story was written for, and it’s a lovely story for them, but it wasn’t written for me.
August 24, 2021
Mel is just your typical high school student. The usual dramas that come with being that age…..
A possible new love interest and the fact her best friend is in love with her! See totally normal stuff.
So when she finds out that she’s not human! Well, that throws up a lot of questions, and she needs answers, like now!
Finding out those answers (will make sense of the prologue) only make her life more complicated!
Oh and her bitter enemy The Ivies) want her dead! Wait! She has enemies that want her dead! Could her life get anymore complicated? Well yes it can, she can also wield magic!
And her parents decide to foster a child, but not a little one! No he had to be an annoying senior in her school!!
So where does her best friend Zach and her new love interest come in?
Can they be trusted?
Mel begins to look at everyone as a potential enemy!
Wow! That was totally different from anything I’ve read so far.
What a great story.
Very detailed, very meticulous and well thought out. Lots of background story (which will also make the prologue make sense)
Seeders are supernaturals who give life to seeds that will eventually grow into the next generation.
The bad guys are the Ivies, they want to annihilate the seeder population from existence, and by separating the next generation and hiding them from the Ivies, the Seeders can try to guarantee that it doesn’t happen.
So will Mel ignore her growing power’s? Or will she go home to Green Lands and learn more about her heritage and help in the fight to win against the enemy? But if she does that she’s going to have to leave all and everyone she knows and loves…..
And now I’m anxious to read what happens next.
It doesn’t hang on a cliffhanger, but it does leave it open to another book (which I’m hoping will be soon) 🙏
I’d highly recommended this book to lovers of the paranormal and the readers who like something a little different.
🦋
A possible new love interest and the fact her best friend is in love with her! See totally normal stuff.
So when she finds out that she’s not human! Well, that throws up a lot of questions, and she needs answers, like now!
Finding out those answers (will make sense of the prologue) only make her life more complicated!
Oh and her bitter enemy The Ivies) want her dead! Wait! She has enemies that want her dead! Could her life get anymore complicated? Well yes it can, she can also wield magic!
And her parents decide to foster a child, but not a little one! No he had to be an annoying senior in her school!!
So where does her best friend Zach and her new love interest come in?
Can they be trusted?
Mel begins to look at everyone as a potential enemy!
Wow! That was totally different from anything I’ve read so far.
What a great story.
Very detailed, very meticulous and well thought out. Lots of background story (which will also make the prologue make sense)
Seeders are supernaturals who give life to seeds that will eventually grow into the next generation.
The bad guys are the Ivies, they want to annihilate the seeder population from existence, and by separating the next generation and hiding them from the Ivies, the Seeders can try to guarantee that it doesn’t happen.
So will Mel ignore her growing power’s? Or will she go home to Green Lands and learn more about her heritage and help in the fight to win against the enemy? But if she does that she’s going to have to leave all and everyone she knows and loves…..
And now I’m anxious to read what happens next.
It doesn’t hang on a cliffhanger, but it does leave it open to another book (which I’m hoping will be soon) 🙏
I’d highly recommended this book to lovers of the paranormal and the readers who like something a little different.
🦋
December 28, 2021
I received an ARC of this book to review.
Overall thoughts:
I really enjoyed this! It was just the kind of fantasy story I was looking for. There was good amount of background information for the world, but I thought it all made sense the way it was introduced to the story.
Why I didn't give it 5 stars:
The names were a little confusing at times (just the number of people introduced at a time) which took me out of the story some. It also felt rushed, which makes sense given the circumstances Mel faces, but she was able to make a decision with more confidence than I could have at her age (or even now) which made it slightly less believable for me personally. I would have also liked a little more about Mel's relationships with those around her - more showing less telling.
What I liked:
The world(s) set up made sense and I felt like I could understand the struggles Mel faced with choosing who to trust and how do deal with everything changing. The prologue gave a really nice introduction that explained the world in a pretty concise way. The secrecy didn't exist just because, there were good reasons to keep certain people from knowing certain things. I also loved the dialogue. I liked the joking and the clear thoughtfulness from certain characters. While it is the first in a series, it still gives a relatively satisfying ending which I appreciated.
What I hope to get from the series:
While I wasn't too surprised by the end of this book, I do think there's plenty of potential for the rest of the series and I do plan on following this story wherever it's leading.
I would love more from the enemy perspective! It seemed very one-sided in the history department but I'm sure that will come later as this was told from Mel's perspective and we only have what she is given. I did like that she questioned this as well so I'm hopeful for some expansion in the future.
Overall thoughts:
I really enjoyed this! It was just the kind of fantasy story I was looking for. There was good amount of background information for the world, but I thought it all made sense the way it was introduced to the story.
Why I didn't give it 5 stars:
The names were a little confusing at times (just the number of people introduced at a time) which took me out of the story some. It also felt rushed, which makes sense given the circumstances Mel faces, but she was able to make a decision with more confidence than I could have at her age (or even now) which made it slightly less believable for me personally. I would have also liked a little more about Mel's relationships with those around her - more showing less telling.
What I liked:
The world(s) set up made sense and I felt like I could understand the struggles Mel faced with choosing who to trust and how do deal with everything changing. The prologue gave a really nice introduction that explained the world in a pretty concise way. The secrecy didn't exist just because, there were good reasons to keep certain people from knowing certain things. I also loved the dialogue. I liked the joking and the clear thoughtfulness from certain characters. While it is the first in a series, it still gives a relatively satisfying ending which I appreciated.
What I hope to get from the series:
While I wasn't too surprised by the end of this book, I do think there's plenty of potential for the rest of the series and I do plan on following this story wherever it's leading.
I would love more from the enemy perspective! It seemed very one-sided in the history department but I'm sure that will come later as this was told from Mel's perspective and we only have what she is given. I did like that she questioned this as well so I'm hopeful for some expansion in the future.
April 21, 2025
Seeder Shadow Wars is an introduction into a world that is realistically magical. It is completely possible that this world actually exists. Best way to hide something would be to introduce it to the world as a fictional premise... How mind-blowing would it be to find out that you are not a human being, you are part plant? Then there are decisions and consequences and it's all so much to have to think about and consider.
Being a teenager is a dreadful time. So much learning about who you really are and what type of person you want to be WHILE dealing with hormones and the change from child to adult. This novel translates all the stress of the teenage transitions into a magical story about transforming from human ... to plant. But it's so much better than the simple version. Botanical being over 'plant'.
The plot is engaging and easy to follow. It's exciting and hard to put down. The world descriptions are great -the reader gets to enter the created world and hang out with the characters, watching them move about. It's the closest you can get to being a super spy/invisible person without having to leave your home.
The main character is faced with a lot of information and choices and the way she processes everything and works through her feelings and the available information is an excellent representation of the skills needed for anyone who has a big decision to make.
This is a fabulous read and could easily be enjoyed by people of every single option that they may choose to identify with.
Being a teenager is a dreadful time. So much learning about who you really are and what type of person you want to be WHILE dealing with hormones and the change from child to adult. This novel translates all the stress of the teenage transitions into a magical story about transforming from human ... to plant. But it's so much better than the simple version. Botanical being over 'plant'.
The plot is engaging and easy to follow. It's exciting and hard to put down. The world descriptions are great -the reader gets to enter the created world and hang out with the characters, watching them move about. It's the closest you can get to being a super spy/invisible person without having to leave your home.
The main character is faced with a lot of information and choices and the way she processes everything and works through her feelings and the available information is an excellent representation of the skills needed for anyone who has a big decision to make.
This is a fabulous read and could easily be enjoyed by people of every single option that they may choose to identify with.
September 13, 2021
Poor Mel. She’s a teenager living with the strictest of parents. Her world is fairly small because of their extreme overprotectiveness. When she learns there is more to her world than she ever dreamed possible, it opens up a world of possibilities for her. As she discovers more about who she is and who The Seeders are, she learns that her life is fraught with danger. Can she learn her capabilities before it’s too late?
I was intrigued when a review request for Seeder Shadow Wars came into my inbox. I hadn’t read of a botanical race before, and I was curious about how it would unfold. I have a few minor issues with the story that I can’t fully discuss, so I don’t spoil the book. But the logistics concerning the way the daughters and sons are raised seems like a poor solution to their problems. Also, the book left me wanting. It is called Seeder Shadow Wars, but the entire book feels like a set up for future books. As it’s labeled a book 1, we can certainly expect more from author Houser.
When I look past those small issues, this is an enjoyable read. I like that Houser has created a fresh concept executed in a fun, YA format. As the reader doesn’t get to learn much about the Ivies, it will be interesting to learn about them in future books. I do hope we get to see more from Zach. He’s a great best friend for Mel; his character is full of potential. Overall, a creative and enjoyable read.
I was intrigued when a review request for Seeder Shadow Wars came into my inbox. I hadn’t read of a botanical race before, and I was curious about how it would unfold. I have a few minor issues with the story that I can’t fully discuss, so I don’t spoil the book. But the logistics concerning the way the daughters and sons are raised seems like a poor solution to their problems. Also, the book left me wanting. It is called Seeder Shadow Wars, but the entire book feels like a set up for future books. As it’s labeled a book 1, we can certainly expect more from author Houser.
When I look past those small issues, this is an enjoyable read. I like that Houser has created a fresh concept executed in a fun, YA format. As the reader doesn’t get to learn much about the Ivies, it will be interesting to learn about them in future books. I do hope we get to see more from Zach. He’s a great best friend for Mel; his character is full of potential. Overall, a creative and enjoyable read.
July 26, 2021
"I was provided an ARC copy to read for an honest review."
I must say that J. Houser has written a great book. The world that she has created sounds so beautiful and despite the war going on, you really want to go there.
This book takes you on a journey with mostly Mel. A young girl that is about to start her junior year, but with one friend short. She quickly befriends a new boy at the school and you follow her as she develops feelings for him. We follow Mel as she discovers some truths about herself and we follow her through her blooming and it is amazing to see how she grows and becomes what she was meant to be.
Mel's struggles, worries, and how she approach her new reality are so well written that you go through those emotions with her.
The fighting scenes have you mesmerized and it helps you understand that this war is serious. It also makes you start guessing. Who is a true friend and who is truly an enemy. Some of these will be revealed during Mel's journey early on, but a lot of them, you will be guessing to the very end.
I can definitely recommend reading this lovely young adult fantasy romance with a little bit of action in between. I must say, I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I especially want to know more about the Green Lands.
I must say that J. Houser has written a great book. The world that she has created sounds so beautiful and despite the war going on, you really want to go there.
This book takes you on a journey with mostly Mel. A young girl that is about to start her junior year, but with one friend short. She quickly befriends a new boy at the school and you follow her as she develops feelings for him. We follow Mel as she discovers some truths about herself and we follow her through her blooming and it is amazing to see how she grows and becomes what she was meant to be.
Mel's struggles, worries, and how she approach her new reality are so well written that you go through those emotions with her.
The fighting scenes have you mesmerized and it helps you understand that this war is serious. It also makes you start guessing. Who is a true friend and who is truly an enemy. Some of these will be revealed during Mel's journey early on, but a lot of them, you will be guessing to the very end.
I can definitely recommend reading this lovely young adult fantasy romance with a little bit of action in between. I must say, I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I especially want to know more about the Green Lands.
July 27, 2022
I was completely blown away by this book. I found the author on Tiktok and loved how different the books sounded. Assassins. YA. Plant people with a promised unique magic system....it checked some fun boxes so I bought it. Then promptly tried to rush through a popular series so I could actually read it.
This book wasn't like anything else I have read before and I mean that in the absolute best possible way. The magic is unique. The setting is different, the world-building is pretty darn good; but I will say that reading the companion stories in the suggested order kind of just adds to that. It really keeps you on your toes. Think like a whodunit but wrapped up in a teenage hidden powers chosen one sort of vibe.
Mel is out main character, she's an only child, does good in school, has an awesome bestie, great parents (albeit a little strict). It's the start of her junior year of high school and life is good. Until it's not. But is. But it's not. Mel is sassy, smart, and I loved her. The banter in this book was just too fun and had me laughing out loud so often.
To say I am excited for this series is an understatement. I am thrilled to add this author to my list of new favorite indie authors. It was fantastic.
This book wasn't like anything else I have read before and I mean that in the absolute best possible way. The magic is unique. The setting is different, the world-building is pretty darn good; but I will say that reading the companion stories in the suggested order kind of just adds to that. It really keeps you on your toes. Think like a whodunit but wrapped up in a teenage hidden powers chosen one sort of vibe.
Mel is out main character, she's an only child, does good in school, has an awesome bestie, great parents (albeit a little strict). It's the start of her junior year of high school and life is good. Until it's not. But is. But it's not. Mel is sassy, smart, and I loved her. The banter in this book was just too fun and had me laughing out loud so often.
To say I am excited for this series is an understatement. I am thrilled to add this author to my list of new favorite indie authors. It was fantastic.
July 30, 2021
I received this book as an Arc copy and I am leaving a review voluntarily.
I love that a map was included in the story. The author is fantastic at constructing the fantasy world the reader can envision.
Murial is a seeder, and this fantasy world has some unique adaptations. Like having to separate the family for it to thrive. So the prologue of this book is where all the unique fantasy items are revealed.
By chapter one, This book seems to be a typical high school read. Mel is a junior in high school. As I am reading, I am wondering what the unique prologue has to do with this story. This book has a complicated love triangle with Mel at the center between a boy she just met and her best friend. The prologue comes into play later in the book, and thankfully it is more explained. Now Mel has a huge decision to make and not a lot of time to make it. Once the decision is made, this book really picks up speed. The actions and questions get intense, and the ending is amazing. I can't wait to read more in this series.
This book honestly was not my typical read, probably too much fantasy for me; however, I did enjoy it. The story was different, not a storyline I have read before, at least not with the fantasy details. The prologue almost made me close the book. It seems out of place, but it will make more sense as you get further into the story. However, once I read further and got into it, I wanted to know more about this fantasy land, its characters, and its abilities. I love that the author did amazing at describing things for her fantasy world and her characters even though the book didn't really occur in the fantasy land. I will admit these seemed a little far-fetched to me, but they did make an incredible story. I kinda wished the ending ended differently, but at the same time, I'm glad we weren't left with too many questions. This story did come full circle by the end of the book, at least to the reasonable point.
I look forward to reading more in this series and would love to know what happens to our beloved main characters.
I love that a map was included in the story. The author is fantastic at constructing the fantasy world the reader can envision.
Murial is a seeder, and this fantasy world has some unique adaptations. Like having to separate the family for it to thrive. So the prologue of this book is where all the unique fantasy items are revealed.
By chapter one, This book seems to be a typical high school read. Mel is a junior in high school. As I am reading, I am wondering what the unique prologue has to do with this story. This book has a complicated love triangle with Mel at the center between a boy she just met and her best friend. The prologue comes into play later in the book, and thankfully it is more explained. Now Mel has a huge decision to make and not a lot of time to make it. Once the decision is made, this book really picks up speed. The actions and questions get intense, and the ending is amazing. I can't wait to read more in this series.
This book honestly was not my typical read, probably too much fantasy for me; however, I did enjoy it. The story was different, not a storyline I have read before, at least not with the fantasy details. The prologue almost made me close the book. It seems out of place, but it will make more sense as you get further into the story. However, once I read further and got into it, I wanted to know more about this fantasy land, its characters, and its abilities. I love that the author did amazing at describing things for her fantasy world and her characters even though the book didn't really occur in the fantasy land. I will admit these seemed a little far-fetched to me, but they did make an incredible story. I kinda wished the ending ended differently, but at the same time, I'm glad we weren't left with too many questions. This story did come full circle by the end of the book, at least to the reasonable point.
I look forward to reading more in this series and would love to know what happens to our beloved main characters.
November 12, 2021
I surprisingly enjoyed this book. Having received and ARC I am always worried about how to treat my reviews, but as always I am going to be honest.
This wasn't a typical YA read for me, it had a much different outlook on a how this teenage girl was going to navigate high school. There was a bit of romance, but a whole lot of supernatural. I will be the first to admit that the only reason it didn't get an extra star is because I found it a tad confusing.
It's only because it's something that as far as I can tell never been written before, not the fault of the topic or author. In fact Houser smashes the writing out of the park with this one. She's a new author, outside of the norm realm of genres but that doesn't show in the writing.
There was a lot of backstory, and build up to the second book which sometimes made it feel wordy. I like books where I can just figure it out without having to be told (but again different genre so to be expected). I had the opportunity to get a semi sneak read with book 2, and it doesn't disappoint.
This wasn't a typical YA read for me, it had a much different outlook on a how this teenage girl was going to navigate high school. There was a bit of romance, but a whole lot of supernatural. I will be the first to admit that the only reason it didn't get an extra star is because I found it a tad confusing.
It's only because it's something that as far as I can tell never been written before, not the fault of the topic or author. In fact Houser smashes the writing out of the park with this one. She's a new author, outside of the norm realm of genres but that doesn't show in the writing.
There was a lot of backstory, and build up to the second book which sometimes made it feel wordy. I like books where I can just figure it out without having to be told (but again different genre so to be expected). I had the opportunity to get a semi sneak read with book 2, and it doesn't disappoint.
December 21, 2021
This is a really good book. I don’t usually read many indie authors because of concerns about quality, but Seeder Shadow Wars is better polished than many traditionally published books I have read, so don’t let that deter you.
I did have a few issues with it. I couldn’t get into it at first, but once I decided to skip the prologue, it was engaging enough from chapter one. That said, about the first half of the book deals a lot with teenage romance, which is not my cup of tea, but I’m sure is great for those readers interested in that. The romance reminded me a little of a Twilight novel only with healthier relationships (and obviously, no vampires).
By the second half of the book, the plot thickens and the book really becomes hard to put down. The romance is still there for everyone engaged by that, but there is also more of the promised fantasy, intrigue, and action. I recommend it for anyone who likes a little magical drama with their high school romance.
I did have a few issues with it. I couldn’t get into it at first, but once I decided to skip the prologue, it was engaging enough from chapter one. That said, about the first half of the book deals a lot with teenage romance, which is not my cup of tea, but I’m sure is great for those readers interested in that. The romance reminded me a little of a Twilight novel only with healthier relationships (and obviously, no vampires).
By the second half of the book, the plot thickens and the book really becomes hard to put down. The romance is still there for everyone engaged by that, but there is also more of the promised fantasy, intrigue, and action. I recommend it for anyone who likes a little magical drama with their high school romance.
January 17, 2022
Seeder Shadow Wars by J. Houser
Wow!!! It is so refreshing to have a book that is well written. I really like the story line and the characters, except for the villains, they won’t have me in their cheering section 😉. I’m a lot older than a young adult, so I wasn’t sure at first if this type of book would interest me, but it DID! As with any new story line, it must be told over the course of time so you’ll be drawn into this reality and be gratified you read it to the end. It was great to see how the importance of family and friends can be. I didn’t want to put this down while reading it, it was so intriguing to think of possible scenarios throughout the entire book! It has some steamy romance scenes, but no sex and has a little mild swearing, which I appreciate that it was kept on the lighter side. Looking forward to reading Book 2, and hopefully several more to come! I’m a fan, Great book!
Wow!!! It is so refreshing to have a book that is well written. I really like the story line and the characters, except for the villains, they won’t have me in their cheering section 😉. I’m a lot older than a young adult, so I wasn’t sure at first if this type of book would interest me, but it DID! As with any new story line, it must be told over the course of time so you’ll be drawn into this reality and be gratified you read it to the end. It was great to see how the importance of family and friends can be. I didn’t want to put this down while reading it, it was so intriguing to think of possible scenarios throughout the entire book! It has some steamy romance scenes, but no sex and has a little mild swearing, which I appreciate that it was kept on the lighter side. Looking forward to reading Book 2, and hopefully several more to come! I’m a fan, Great book!
January 22, 2022
I had the privilege of recently completing the book Seeder Shadow Wars by J. Houser. I seldom give reviews, and when I do, I do not do them lightly. Out of 5 stars, this one is a 6 or 7. This new author has created a new fantasy world, yet kept it grounded in our world. J Houser has created new “races” of people that, not unlike our world, are so much alike, yet for reasons largely unknow are at war. The time was taken to develop the characters but no so much as to slow the book down. The twist and turns as the lead character, learns who and what she is will leave you on the edge of your chair. Just as you know what is going to happen, oops, you had it wrong, and it is now so obvious why you had it wrong, ….. should have picked up on that clue (LOL). While this book is great as a “stand alone”, fortunately it has a sequel, Trouble in The Green Lands. I look forward to reading this book as well.
December 19, 2021
Mel was an ordinary high schooler with an abundance of rules from her parents. Her biggest concern was not being allowed to date, until it wasn’t. Next thing she knows, she is trying to avoid assassination because she is in fact not human. As if high school alone wasn’t hard enough, now she has a whole new level of complicated on her plate and a life changing decision to make.
I really enjoyed reading the first book in the YA series. Mel was a very relatable character who was easy to invest in. Her friends and family were also very likeable and it was easy to be lost in the creative plot. This was an easy to read text thats pace didn’t get bogged down on the particulars even though a lot had to be explained to understand the concept. Highly recommended young adult fantasy. I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading the first book in the YA series. Mel was a very relatable character who was easy to invest in. Her friends and family were also very likeable and it was easy to be lost in the creative plot. This was an easy to read text thats pace didn’t get bogged down on the particulars even though a lot had to be explained to understand the concept. Highly recommended young adult fantasy. I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2023
Jan 16th 2023 This was a re-read for me, first reading this book in Dec 2022 I devoured it in one night the first read through, it was such a unique story I couldn't put it down. Reading the first part of the companion Seeder Stories I knew I'd need to read this book again a bit more slowly and intentionally to remember important things for moving forward in the series and honestly even reading it again so soon after I was ENGROSSED in the plot, characters and the world. Maybe its a bit of my on going love and obsession with Poison Ivy from seeing the Batman Movie as a kid but man I am OBSESSED with these phenomenally different and interesting Botanical Beings and their world. Personal opinion if you like things like House of Night, Netflix's new Winx series, or the Daughters of the Moon series I HIGHLY recommend and urge you to pick up this book.
May 1, 2022
Seeder Shadow Wars by J. Houser
Thank you VoraciousReader for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. I really enjoyed this book. The author definitely came up with a new concept with the Seeders being botanical beings whose home-world was poisonous to their females so they had to be be hidden in the human world until maturity then be returned home to the Green Lands before they became permanently rooted in the human world. I found the characters to be believable and likeable. The fight scenes using roots, vines and darts was different and interesting. Also, the suspense regarding who were the bad guys and who were the good guys was definitely nail-biting suspense. Overall a very good read and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Thank you VoraciousReader for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. I really enjoyed this book. The author definitely came up with a new concept with the Seeders being botanical beings whose home-world was poisonous to their females so they had to be be hidden in the human world until maturity then be returned home to the Green Lands before they became permanently rooted in the human world. I found the characters to be believable and likeable. The fight scenes using roots, vines and darts was different and interesting. Also, the suspense regarding who were the bad guys and who were the good guys was definitely nail-biting suspense. Overall a very good read and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2021
Mel is a Junior in High School, who doesn't understand why her parents are so protective or why the guys are all asking her out now. Things are changing rapidly for Mel and she doesn't know who to go to. I like this book. If you've read any of my reviews you know I love high school drama and this book has plenty. The characters were mainly likeable with the exception of a couple. Mel is very likeable, she's like any teenager. Zach was the typical guy best friend, by the end I just felt sad for him. This is my first book by J. Houser. It was a good book, can't wait for the next book in this series.
October 11, 2021
This book is a good book but so much information about the world building is thrown out the reader so fast that it gets a bit muddled and confusing. The premise that there is a world beyond the human one that is at war and with that various issues exist that mean that the females of the species must leave until they hit "puberty" is very interesting but the author should have spread the story over two or three books so that the information being thrown out does not get lost. The world and character building is spectacular and the story is compelling. It is worth a read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 26, 2021
SSW was like absolutely nothing I've ever read!
No zombies, vampires, or faeries. Just regular people...plant people!
I enjoyed every character immensely, everyone brought something to the story.
I was surprised by the originality of this story, I really was. To have an entire different race, TWO, living undetected in the human world was cool. Though world building for The Green Lands wasn't great, at least it wasn't drawn out, leaving something to the imagination.
There was a tiny love triangle, but it wasn't the focal point. Which, as most of us know, is a tired troupe.
I would recommend reading this, especially if you're getting tired of the same story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
No zombies, vampires, or faeries. Just regular people...plant people!
I enjoyed every character immensely, everyone brought something to the story.
I was surprised by the originality of this story, I really was. To have an entire different race, TWO, living undetected in the human world was cool. Though world building for The Green Lands wasn't great, at least it wasn't drawn out, leaving something to the imagination.
There was a tiny love triangle, but it wasn't the focal point. Which, as most of us know, is a tired troupe.
I would recommend reading this, especially if you're getting tired of the same story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 3, 2022
To start parts of this was a tad confusing but I have come to expect that from fantasy titles. The writing felt more like a very high middle grade novel and low young adult. Which I don't generally read but even that fit the story well. The world building was spot on for other titles Ive read. I think the author did a great job with bringing this world and story to life. I liked Mel and I think I will check out book two and three. This book gave us your average teenager in high school set into a fantasy world. I felt that for the most part it felt believable and was a fun read. ~UR
March 20, 2022
I have to admit, I went into this book skeptical. It's not a genre I normally read, so I wasn't sure I'd like it. I was right. I didn't.... I loved it!
The characters are strong and engaging, and the Green Lands world is so unique, it's fascinating. I was impressed by how intricate the author was able to make it while still having it be easy to follow and understand. Plus, the fact the writing is extremely well done doesn't hurt!
It was an incredibly enjoyable read. Glad I took a chance on it. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
The characters are strong and engaging, and the Green Lands world is so unique, it's fascinating. I was impressed by how intricate the author was able to make it while still having it be easy to follow and understand. Plus, the fact the writing is extremely well done doesn't hurt!
It was an incredibly enjoyable read. Glad I took a chance on it. Can't wait to read the rest of the series!
March 22, 2022
Loved this book. I like that the main character is super relatable but also unique in her own way and doesn’t just go with what people tell her to do she is her own person. I really like the unique world building and the type of magic and set of powers is something I’ve never seen before. I really liked reading it and its a smooth read . I like that it’s not always complete action, there are times where you just get to learn about the characters in the book rather than constant fighting or constant drama.
July 17, 2023
This is a story unlike anything so have ever read. The premise, the story and character development and detail is so wonderfully woven together that I found myself binging the book.
The author gave us a story of a teenage girl going through an epic change that threw her entire existence into question. Her entire world was ripped apart and she didn’t know who to trust. I loved how the author gave us hints throughout the story alluding to key information we would need going forward.
If you are looking for something completely different from the typical YA story, you have to read this one.
The author gave us a story of a teenage girl going through an epic change that threw her entire existence into question. Her entire world was ripped apart and she didn’t know who to trust. I loved how the author gave us hints throughout the story alluding to key information we would need going forward.
If you are looking for something completely different from the typical YA story, you have to read this one.
January 4, 2025
I loved it. It was cute, but the story was also well written. You can tell how much thought the author put into this story. The world building is so DIFFERENT. That being said, it is a lot of novel ideas than from what I'm used to as a story, but it makes sense and is explained pretty well. The romance was cute and didn't take away from the story. Mel's character development isn't that developed by the end. She understands the things she does puts others at risk, but she is a teenager, so it makes sense for her character.
June 5, 2022
-3.75 ⭐️
I have to say it started a bit slow. Imagine it as the first 100 pages romance then next bit fantasy, and from then on a mix of both. After the beginning I really enjoyed it! The ending was amazing. I found the ending unpredictable in the way you think you know what’s going to happen and then something else happens. Overall I’d say it’s worth it and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
I have to say it started a bit slow. Imagine it as the first 100 pages romance then next bit fantasy, and from then on a mix of both. After the beginning I really enjoyed it! The ending was amazing. I found the ending unpredictable in the way you think you know what’s going to happen and then something else happens. Overall I’d say it’s worth it and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
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