What do you think?
Rate this book
Precious Stones #1
Mother of Pearl
Lured to a mystical land, Valeri must learn to harness a power deep within her.
Orphaned at a young age, sisters Valeri and Amelia shouldered the household responsibilities in their small village of Noor. Valeri was the hunter; Amelia the gatherer. While fishing one day, Valeri follows her instinct into the depths of the ocean despite a raging storm. She discovers the Mother of Pearl shell - which unbeknownst to her, unlocks the secrets of her ancestral power.
Knocked unconscious by the storm and washed ashore in a foreign land, she soon realizes she is thousands of miles from her sister, and there are wicked plans afoot. As she struggles to find a way to return home to her sister, Valeri befriends Prince Rulin at the magical court. In each other, they find purpose. But she must harness the newfound power within her blood first.
Orphaned at a young age, sisters Valeri and Amelia shouldered the household responsibilities in their small village of Noor. Valeri was the hunter; Amelia the gatherer. While fishing one day, Valeri follows her instinct into the depths of the ocean despite a raging storm. She discovers the Mother of Pearl shell - which unbeknownst to her, unlocks the secrets of her ancestral power.
Knocked unconscious by the storm and washed ashore in a foreign land, she soon realizes she is thousands of miles from her sister, and there are wicked plans afoot. As she struggles to find a way to return home to her sister, Valeri befriends Prince Rulin at the magical court. In each other, they find purpose. But she must harness the newfound power within her blood first.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2022
47 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
Blanka H. Madow
10 books48 followersBlanka H. Madow was born and raised in Zagreb, Croatia. Growing up, she was an avid reader of fantasy novels, inspiring her to write her own stories. Her debut novel, Mother of Pearl, is the first in a Precious Stones series. When she is not writing, she is still reading now in a smaller town. Blanka writes New Adult Fantasy - perfect for escapists.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 10, 2022
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I love that we have a sibling set—two sisters—at the center of our story. I don’t see enough siblings in fiction so this was such an awesome addition. The way they interacted was great, being both reflective of their lifestyle but still with enough of that sibling sharpness.
The magic in this world was really fascinating. Each time I thought I understood it, another variable was introduced and it really was woven well into the plot.
I adore this world and can’t wait to see more!
I love that we have a sibling set—two sisters—at the center of our story. I don’t see enough siblings in fiction so this was such an awesome addition. The way they interacted was great, being both reflective of their lifestyle but still with enough of that sibling sharpness.
The magic in this world was really fascinating. Each time I thought I understood it, another variable was introduced and it really was woven well into the plot.
I adore this world and can’t wait to see more!
July 5, 2023
The world building .. it felt like. I was actually there and could just see it around me. I got connected to the characters (especially Amelia and Valeri) fast.. I did not like that they constantly struggled but it made me root for them. Definitely have a favorite .. Valeri and excited for book two!
July 20, 2022
Mother of Pearl
Fantasy
Blanka H Maddow
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I found the premise of the book really intriguing and I was quickly drawn into the world it was set in. I really felt bad for Valeri and her sister Amelia and how much they struggled.
The more that magic was used, the more curious I was and looked forward to learning more about it. I wasn't too keen on how quickly things moved between Rulin and Valeri but I was also surprised by how things changed towards the end (no spoilers 😂).
Certain situations were very emotional and made me sympathise with Valeria even more. Although the ending was too soon for me, I liked how determined Valeria became.
Huge thank you to Blanka H Madow for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review!
Fantasy
Blanka H Maddow
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I found the premise of the book really intriguing and I was quickly drawn into the world it was set in. I really felt bad for Valeri and her sister Amelia and how much they struggled.
The more that magic was used, the more curious I was and looked forward to learning more about it. I wasn't too keen on how quickly things moved between Rulin and Valeri but I was also surprised by how things changed towards the end (no spoilers 😂).
Certain situations were very emotional and made me sympathise with Valeria even more. Although the ending was too soon for me, I liked how determined Valeria became.
Huge thank you to Blanka H Madow for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review!
September 16, 2022
"To me, a person who didn’t talk to animals was crazy."
"Magic wasn’t all about shining lights and spells. Magic was in the small things. The way you concentrated on cooking or the way you swept the floor to get the dirt and negative energy out. Everything was magic, even in the human world."
Blurb: Orphaned at a young age, sisters Valeri and Amelia shouldered the household responsibilities in their small village of Noor. Valeri was the hunter; Amelia the gatherer. While fishing one day, Valeri follows her instinct into the depths of the ocean despite a raging storm. She discovers the Mother of Pearl shell - which unbeknownst to her, unlocks the secrets of her ancestral power. ▪︎ Knocked unconscious by the storm and washed ashore in a foreign land, she soon realizes she is thousands of miles from her sister, and there are wicked plans afoot. As she struggles to find a way to return home to her sister, Valeri befriends Prince Rulin at the magical court. In each other, they find purpose. But she must harness the newfound power within her blood first.
My thoughts: Oh my goodness I was not prepared for that! At first the world building was a little slow, just like every first book in a fantasy series, but then it comes back and smacks you in the face with so much amazing-ness! The plot twists I didn't see coming, the character development, this beautiful world, and don't forget magical abilities becoming stronger based on the stones that essentially bond to you! It's all brilliant you guys! And i said in another recent review how a coven gave me a taste of the 13 in throne of glass, but this witchy environment really makes me itch that the main Character (who's freaking awesome btw) will find her home with others just like the 13. I can't wait to read this next book and see where this story goes!!
I give Mother of Pearl in the Precious stones series by Blanka H. Madow ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Magic wasn’t all about shining lights and spells. Magic was in the small things. The way you concentrated on cooking or the way you swept the floor to get the dirt and negative energy out. Everything was magic, even in the human world."
Blurb: Orphaned at a young age, sisters Valeri and Amelia shouldered the household responsibilities in their small village of Noor. Valeri was the hunter; Amelia the gatherer. While fishing one day, Valeri follows her instinct into the depths of the ocean despite a raging storm. She discovers the Mother of Pearl shell - which unbeknownst to her, unlocks the secrets of her ancestral power. ▪︎ Knocked unconscious by the storm and washed ashore in a foreign land, she soon realizes she is thousands of miles from her sister, and there are wicked plans afoot. As she struggles to find a way to return home to her sister, Valeri befriends Prince Rulin at the magical court. In each other, they find purpose. But she must harness the newfound power within her blood first.
My thoughts: Oh my goodness I was not prepared for that! At first the world building was a little slow, just like every first book in a fantasy series, but then it comes back and smacks you in the face with so much amazing-ness! The plot twists I didn't see coming, the character development, this beautiful world, and don't forget magical abilities becoming stronger based on the stones that essentially bond to you! It's all brilliant you guys! And i said in another recent review how a coven gave me a taste of the 13 in throne of glass, but this witchy environment really makes me itch that the main Character (who's freaking awesome btw) will find her home with others just like the 13. I can't wait to read this next book and see where this story goes!!
I give Mother of Pearl in the Precious stones series by Blanka H. Madow ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read
September 13, 2022Mother of Pearl is the story of a young woman, living with her sister and struggling just to survive in their harsh climate. They have a small home and each day, Val goes out to fish to provide food for the two of them. She begins hearing an odd song in her head - day after day - and feels a pull to the waters. One day, while fishing, she hears the song and loses control of her body - diving under the freezing water and swimming to the bottom, until she finds a shell. Once in her grasp, all control returns to her and she must race home to avoid freezing to death. The song is quiet for a bit, but when it returns and she is again plunged beneath the waves - her life changes forever.
The magic system in this book is really interesting, I love the incorporation of crystals and birth months being tied to powers. There is also elemental magic - earth, water, fire, and air. Along with what is called an "eclectic witch" which is one who doesn't fit within the regular confines of the magic system. There is also a cool world rift and backstory that we learn further in. I do wish there had been a bit more world-building, as I felt there was so much more that could've been explored here. The war going on was confusing and lacked detail. However, I realize that many people don't need all of the extra info, so that may just be me! Lol.
I did have trouble connecting with the characters, especially Val. She was really rude to everyone around her - which confused me as many of them were helping her. However, she was thrust into this world and ripped from her home - so I guess it was somewhat justified. I did really like some of the side characters, including Beta and Ahn. There is an air of mystery surrounding a lot of the other characters - not quite knowing who is the good guy and who is the bad guy. And the ending comes with a fun twist!
I look forward to book 2 and will definitely read it.
Thank you to the author and Katie & Brey PA for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
The magic system in this book is really interesting, I love the incorporation of crystals and birth months being tied to powers. There is also elemental magic - earth, water, fire, and air. Along with what is called an "eclectic witch" which is one who doesn't fit within the regular confines of the magic system. There is also a cool world rift and backstory that we learn further in. I do wish there had been a bit more world-building, as I felt there was so much more that could've been explored here. The war going on was confusing and lacked detail. However, I realize that many people don't need all of the extra info, so that may just be me! Lol.
I did have trouble connecting with the characters, especially Val. She was really rude to everyone around her - which confused me as many of them were helping her. However, she was thrust into this world and ripped from her home - so I guess it was somewhat justified. I did really like some of the side characters, including Beta and Ahn. There is an air of mystery surrounding a lot of the other characters - not quite knowing who is the good guy and who is the bad guy. And the ending comes with a fun twist!
I look forward to book 2 and will definitely read it.
Thank you to the author and Katie & Brey PA for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
November 3, 2023
This book was the first of the author's to read. It was a little slow at the start but picked up after 10 chapters. I enjoyed the twist and turns in the story that kept me guessing during the whole book.
June 28, 2022
This series could easily become a comfort series.
It has:
-excellent world building (not in an information dump way)
-grey morals
-lil bit o spice
-A MAP
Val is a FMC that endures a lot and has a roller coaster of character development. I sometimes became frustrated by how she acted but when you consider what she goes through it was more understandable.
It did take me about 10% into the book to get into it but then I couldn't put it down. There wasn't as much of a pretty bow at the end as I wanted but I guess that's what book 2 is for. So many loose ends I want to see tied up!
Overall I really enjoyed this book and see the series having so much potential as it is fleshed out further.
I received this as an eARC (thank you!).
It has:
-excellent world building (not in an information dump way)
-grey morals
-lil bit o spice
-A MAP
Val is a FMC that endures a lot and has a roller coaster of character development. I sometimes became frustrated by how she acted but when you consider what she goes through it was more understandable.
It did take me about 10% into the book to get into it but then I couldn't put it down. There wasn't as much of a pretty bow at the end as I wanted but I guess that's what book 2 is for. So many loose ends I want to see tied up!
Overall I really enjoyed this book and see the series having so much potential as it is fleshed out further.
I received this as an eARC (thank you!).
July 24, 2022
Honestly, this blurb doesn't do this book justice. What I think I loved the most about this book was the MC secretly wishes she lived in a fairytale where a prince would save her. Don't we all honey! She continuously digs deep and saves herself. And character development you guys. Valeri begins this book kinda lost and walking through the paces of every day, to finding her own direction making choices for herself and making changes for the betterment of her own life. The world building is gentle with out the dreaded info-dump and there were so many plots and twists. I love how the author pulls you in to read the next book with out a stressful cliffhanger. Overall, well done! I can't wait for book 2!
August 5, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! It is so well written and I love the way Blanka H. Madow weaves the world of witches, the magical kingdoms and all the magical politics between the kingdoms. The story draws you in and makes this book so hard to put down. I didn’t want it to end.
Valeri is a really strong main character and she is wonderfully compelling. I was with her every step of the way and it was so difficult to guess what was going to happen next. As soon as this book is released I will be putting it on my to buy list and will be eagerly awaiting book two in the series.
I received a free Advanced reading copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and is written voluntarily.
Valeri is a really strong main character and she is wonderfully compelling. I was with her every step of the way and it was so difficult to guess what was going to happen next. As soon as this book is released I will be putting it on my to buy list and will be eagerly awaiting book two in the series.
I received a free Advanced reading copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and is written voluntarily.
July 18, 2022
Mother of Pearl is a beautifully written story with a magical world! The world building is one of my favorite things about this book! The descriptions are vivid and absolutely beautiful! A seaside cottage to a castle in the mountains to caves filled with beautiful crystals and more! Valeri is a strong female character. She's strong, determined and willing to do whatever it takes for the ones she loves! The pace moves around a little but overall it's an entertaining story with a little bit of romance and with the ending I will definitely be looking out for the next book! Thank you Katie and Brey and Blanka Madow for sharing this book with me!
July 21, 2022
It was an intriguing story, very easy to get in to.
The premise of the novel was interesting and unique, and Valeri was an interesting character to get to know. The story moves along at a good pace and there isn’t an overload of world-building to sift through, which is great.
The premise of the novel was interesting and unique, and Valeri was an interesting character to get to know. The story moves along at a good pace and there isn’t an overload of world-building to sift through, which is great.
September 24, 2022
📖 𝕖𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 📖
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙡𝙚: 𝘔𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭
𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧: 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘢 𝘏. 𝘔𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺
𝙋𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨: 270
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙎𝙤𝙣𝙜: 𝘈𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘦 -𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
*** Thank you to the author @blankahmadow and @katieandbreypa for giving me a change to read this book.**
___________💭𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜💭_____________
"𝘐 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘧 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘶𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
✔️ 𝘕𝘈 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺
✔️ 𝘍𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘔𝘊
✔️ 𝘚𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘭
✔️ 𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤
✔️ 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴
✔️ 𝘉𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴
This book is absolutely amazing from start to finish. The word building is done so beautifuly and it is done so vividly, imaginatively, such a picturesque world and it is marvelous. And the fact that it was about the sea made it so much better for me, because there is nothing more I love than the sea and swiming in it. Major plus from me.
Now about our heroine Val. I loved Val from the first page. I related to her on so many levels. Val has had to be very independent from the day her and her sister turned into orphans. Protecting her sister and being the "strong" one. But when that's all ripped from her and she has no way of returning. Val will stop at nothing to go back because she will do anything for her sister.
I couldn't stop reading the story and the world Blanka came up with. I loved every second of it. The ending was amazing and it definetly made me want to read the next book in the series right now.
This book contains a wonderful map at the beginning so you get the layout of things and any book with a map in it is already my favourite.
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
𝙏𝙞𝙩𝙡𝙚: 𝘔𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭
𝘼𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧: 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘢 𝘏. 𝘔𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘸
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚: 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺
𝙋𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨: 270
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙎𝙤𝙣𝙜: 𝘈𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘦 -𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬
· · • • • ✤ • • • · ·
*** Thank you to the author @blankahmadow and @katieandbreypa for giving me a change to read this book.**
___________💭𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜💭_____________
"𝘐 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘧 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘧𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘶𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩:
✔️ 𝘕𝘈 𝘍𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘴𝘺
✔️ 𝘍𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘔𝘊
✔️ 𝘚𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘭
✔️ 𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤
✔️ 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴
✔️ 𝘉𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴
This book is absolutely amazing from start to finish. The word building is done so beautifuly and it is done so vividly, imaginatively, such a picturesque world and it is marvelous. And the fact that it was about the sea made it so much better for me, because there is nothing more I love than the sea and swiming in it. Major plus from me.
Now about our heroine Val. I loved Val from the first page. I related to her on so many levels. Val has had to be very independent from the day her and her sister turned into orphans. Protecting her sister and being the "strong" one. But when that's all ripped from her and she has no way of returning. Val will stop at nothing to go back because she will do anything for her sister.
I couldn't stop reading the story and the world Blanka came up with. I loved every second of it. The ending was amazing and it definetly made me want to read the next book in the series right now.
This book contains a wonderful map at the beginning so you get the layout of things and any book with a map in it is already my favourite.
July 1, 2022
This is a unique YA story with interesting Little Mermaid vibes, though it tells a story all its own. Valeri is a wonderful protagonist, and I enjoyed spending time with her throughout this story. Her turn towards moral greyness was compelling and well-written.
The writing is mostly quite lovely. Probably my favorite aspect of the book was Meadow's use of sensory description and imagery. It really helped one feel like a part of this world. The world-building was also terrific. I particularly enjoyed learning about the mythology that has been developed for this series. The pacing of the overall plot was the only thing that lost me slightly: there were a few places where things progressed very suddenly and I was slightly thrown. But for the most part, this is a wonderful and skillfully written book.
The writing is mostly quite lovely. Probably my favorite aspect of the book was Meadow's use of sensory description and imagery. It really helped one feel like a part of this world. The world-building was also terrific. I particularly enjoyed learning about the mythology that has been developed for this series. The pacing of the overall plot was the only thing that lost me slightly: there were a few places where things progressed very suddenly and I was slightly thrown. But for the most part, this is a wonderful and skillfully written book.
August 29, 2022
"I believe we are capable of living full lives with only one half of a soul. The whole soul might be too much and suffocate us with love." - Val
Growing up as practically orphans, Valeri (Val) has sworn to protect her sister. Being the one to go to sea to fish, Val tries ignoring the singing in her head. Something has always been there singing a song, calling to her. But she needs to ignore it! Until one eventful day out at sea she cannot. Diving into the ocean after the thing luring her in.
Val soon finds herself on foreign shores! Not having a way back home causes her to comply to remaining at her new "home". Now surrounded by unfamiliar faces and a new world, Val has to navigate through to hopefully return to her sister. Everyone keeps mentioning that Val is something more than just a human. Something in her bloodline is awakening. Can Val fully awaken it and control it? Is there really something in her bloodline? And why does everyone's eyes seem to shimmer?
I loved Val from page one! Can completely relate to her on so many levels including the one of not wanting to wear dresses. Feeling more comfortable in men's attire. Val has had to be very independent from the day her and her sister turned into orphans. Protecting her sister and being the "strong" one. But when that's all ripped from her and she has no way of returning. . . Val will stop at nothing to go back.
The author did a fantastic job coming up with all the unique characters. Not being able to fully see the twists until you are reading the scene happening! I enjoy books with two sides and being able to see both sides of things. Not knowing which side is the right one or the wrong one. This book had all the good stuff in it! Drama, angst, sweet moments, romance, heartbreak, betrayal, and so much more!
I couldn't stop reading the story and the world Blanka came up with. I was submerged and the ending! The ending is amazing and I will definitely be snatching up book number two! The last few sentences of the end of the book had me grinning. I am ready to see the twists coming in the next book.
The book contains a wonderful map at the beginning so you get the layout of things. There's language in the book along with some violence. Some of the challenges the main character goes through may be a little intense. There's also a cast member who goes through a panic attack on the page. Can relate to the attack because I feel that way when some of mine take hold. There's also MF action blossoming from a slow burn.
Enjoy the read with magic, crystals, and shells. Don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
Growing up as practically orphans, Valeri (Val) has sworn to protect her sister. Being the one to go to sea to fish, Val tries ignoring the singing in her head. Something has always been there singing a song, calling to her. But she needs to ignore it! Until one eventful day out at sea she cannot. Diving into the ocean after the thing luring her in.
Val soon finds herself on foreign shores! Not having a way back home causes her to comply to remaining at her new "home". Now surrounded by unfamiliar faces and a new world, Val has to navigate through to hopefully return to her sister. Everyone keeps mentioning that Val is something more than just a human. Something in her bloodline is awakening. Can Val fully awaken it and control it? Is there really something in her bloodline? And why does everyone's eyes seem to shimmer?
I loved Val from page one! Can completely relate to her on so many levels including the one of not wanting to wear dresses. Feeling more comfortable in men's attire. Val has had to be very independent from the day her and her sister turned into orphans. Protecting her sister and being the "strong" one. But when that's all ripped from her and she has no way of returning. . . Val will stop at nothing to go back.
The author did a fantastic job coming up with all the unique characters. Not being able to fully see the twists until you are reading the scene happening! I enjoy books with two sides and being able to see both sides of things. Not knowing which side is the right one or the wrong one. This book had all the good stuff in it! Drama, angst, sweet moments, romance, heartbreak, betrayal, and so much more!
I couldn't stop reading the story and the world Blanka came up with. I was submerged and the ending! The ending is amazing and I will definitely be snatching up book number two! The last few sentences of the end of the book had me grinning. I am ready to see the twists coming in the next book.
The book contains a wonderful map at the beginning so you get the layout of things. There's language in the book along with some violence. Some of the challenges the main character goes through may be a little intense. There's also a cast member who goes through a panic attack on the page. Can relate to the attack because I feel that way when some of mine take hold. There's also MF action blossoming from a slow burn.
Enjoy the read with magic, crystals, and shells. Don't forget to give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
August 8, 2022
I received this ebook in exchange for my honest opinion.
So this has to be one of my favorite books this year!!!! It is so fantastic that I can not wait for the second book to come out. It is simply and beautifully written. From the beginning, you are drawn into this world. The author did an awesome job of world building and it was like you were right there with the main character- experiencing and learning so much about the culture and world she was thrown into. As the story progresses, there are some twists and turns you don’t expect, that take you to an unimaginable end!!! An end that begs the reader to scream for more. The next book in this series can’t come soon enough for me. This is a book and series for my library and one I recommend everyone read!
So this has to be one of my favorite books this year!!!! It is so fantastic that I can not wait for the second book to come out. It is simply and beautifully written. From the beginning, you are drawn into this world. The author did an awesome job of world building and it was like you were right there with the main character- experiencing and learning so much about the culture and world she was thrown into. As the story progresses, there are some twists and turns you don’t expect, that take you to an unimaginable end!!! An end that begs the reader to scream for more. The next book in this series can’t come soon enough for me. This is a book and series for my library and one I recommend everyone read!
July 17, 2022
In this beautifully written debut novel Blanka H Madow creates a stunning world of magic. Like reading a fairy tale you are carried away by the ocean waves to another world full of witches, demons and dangerous creatures. Madow creates a bewitching world from a Oceanside cottage to a mountainside castle, crystal covered caves and witches with eyes that shimmer. I love the unique way precious stones are tied by birth into the magic of the witches. Valeri the main character although weakened by the magic in the air and the cruelty she endured is strong willed, determined to get back to her sister and protective of those she cares about. A little romance and a flowing storyline makes this a quick captivating fantasy read. The only thing I was disappointed in was that it ended! I am looking forward to reading the next book in the Precious Stones Series.
I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 12, 2022
The number one thing I like about this book is how the magic works and their world. I love a good world building and magic system and this book got all the right marks for it I loved it.
I easily got annoyed with Val are MC on many things but she did grow which I like and the way she grows is my favorite path for any hero so I’m very excited to see what she unleashes in the next book. Over all I loved the story and how it ended and can’t wait to see what happens next!
I easily got annoyed with Val are MC on many things but she did grow which I like and the way she grows is my favorite path for any hero so I’m very excited to see what she unleashes in the next book. Over all I loved the story and how it ended and can’t wait to see what happens next!
March 26, 2023
I quite enjoyed this. The magic and its relationship to birthstones is unlike anything I've ever read before. Val is a strong FMC and I enjoyed learning as she did, though I can't imagine I'd survive being thrust into a new world half as well as she did. Parts of the story were a bit slow for me, but that didn't keep me from wanting to read more and more. There were twists I hadn't expected and with the way things ended, I definitely need to pick up the next book in the series already!
August 8, 2022
Mother of Pearl features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ NA fantasy
○ Witches
○ Magic
○ Romance
○ Royalty
○ War
○ Torture
My overall rating for Mother of Pearl is...
4.5 Stars!
Mother of Pearl may have started off rough around the edges, but by the end I was thoroughly hooked and not wanting it to end! I loved the unique magic system! Val, the MC, was strong and resilient. The world building was exotic and well presented. The writing style improved throughout the book as the author themselves found their style. Overall, an engaging and enjoyable new fantasy tale.
○ NA fantasy
○ Witches
○ Magic
○ Romance
○ Royalty
○ War
○ Torture
My overall rating for Mother of Pearl is...
4.5 Stars!
Mother of Pearl may have started off rough around the edges, but by the end I was thoroughly hooked and not wanting it to end! I loved the unique magic system! Val, the MC, was strong and resilient. The world building was exotic and well presented. The writing style improved throughout the book as the author themselves found their style. Overall, an engaging and enjoyable new fantasy tale.
December 21, 2023
This book was full of twists and turns, it’ll keep you on the edge of your seat! I loved Val and all her bada$$ery, this story will pull you into a world unlike any other🥰
March 21, 2023
Mother of pearl was a very cosy read. I'm a slow reader and so I really enjoyed the plot and characters of this book. It's a fast-paced story with interesting characters. I started the book cheering for specific characters and ended up hating some of them because of their actions which was fun tbh 😂
Valeri's journey isn't over yet and I'm excited to see where it leads her and how it'll impact her.
Valeri's journey isn't over yet and I'm excited to see where it leads her and how it'll impact her.
September 5, 2022
I love this book! Mother of pearl was something else. Like it says in the synopsis this story follows a girl named Val who's life is changed upside down. She is forced to cope in her new normal of a life. Her character development was great the plot twist was unbelievable that part of me didn't want to believe it. The other characters as well we're well written. Tho I do wish Sol appeared more in the book as well as Beta. I could not put this book down once I started reading it. But I felt that the ending could had been a bit more longer. Nonetheless the book was great.
I would 100% recommend this book. If you read Mother of Pearl believe me you won't regret it.
Thank you @blankahmeadows for giving me a chance to read MOP. I can't wait to read more.
P.S. The second book of the Precious Stones series Eye of Hawk will be coming out this Nov. 30. So makes sure to pre-order now for just 2.99.
I would 100% recommend this book. If you read Mother of Pearl believe me you won't regret it.
Thank you @blankahmeadows for giving me a chance to read MOP. I can't wait to read more.
P.S. The second book of the Precious Stones series Eye of Hawk will be coming out this Nov. 30. So makes sure to pre-order now for just 2.99.
January 16, 2023
Ok here I go…
Things I liked:
1. Worldbuilding, it was nice, it was interesting.
2. Plot, it was kinda slow but it didn’t disappoint me. I loved those twists and turns and it kept me hooked.
3. Romance, even though there wasn’t much it was nice. I loved how it kept us hanging for our love interest.
4. Emotional, yeah, I love when a book has me feeling everything and this nailed it.
5. Characters, our side characters were amazing. The friends our main character makes are lovable, even when they aren’t as nice. And obviously the “villians” are hatable, I love the fact that they never seem that bad and that when they show their true colors it just makes sense
Things I didn’t like:
1. Probably the only thing I didn’t like was our main character. She’s annoying as fu(k. Don’t get me wrong, I am as annoying and don’t get on that well with myself half of the time. But I didn’t really Love her, not at all.
Things I liked:
1. Worldbuilding, it was nice, it was interesting.
2. Plot, it was kinda slow but it didn’t disappoint me. I loved those twists and turns and it kept me hooked.
3. Romance, even though there wasn’t much it was nice. I loved how it kept us hanging for our love interest.
4. Emotional, yeah, I love when a book has me feeling everything and this nailed it.
5. Characters, our side characters were amazing. The friends our main character makes are lovable, even when they aren’t as nice. And obviously the “villians” are hatable, I love the fact that they never seem that bad and that when they show their true colors it just makes sense
Things I didn’t like:
1. Probably the only thing I didn’t like was our main character. She’s annoying as fu(k. Don’t get me wrong, I am as annoying and don’t get on that well with myself half of the time. But I didn’t really Love her, not at all.
August 31, 2022
Orphaned at a young age, sisters Valeri and Amelia shouldered the household responsibilities in their small village of Noor. Valeri was the hunter, Amelia the gatherer. While fishing one day, Valeri follows her instinct into the depths of the ocean despite a raging storm. She discovers the shell - which, unlocks the secrets of her ancestral power. Knocked unconscious by the storm and washed ashore in a foreign land, she soon realizes she is thousands of miles from her sister, and there are wicked plans afoot. She must harness the newfound power within her blood.
The world building in this book is what made this book. It was detailed to the point that it was almost like I was there. This book takes some time to get into, but once it really gets going, it’s well worth the read. The characters all have interesting details. The cliff hanger at the end has me dying for book two.
The world building in this book is what made this book. It was detailed to the point that it was almost like I was there. This book takes some time to get into, but once it really gets going, it’s well worth the read. The characters all have interesting details. The cliff hanger at the end has me dying for book two.
October 25, 2023
I felt bad for Amelia and Valeri, they struggled there entire life. It was a slow start but so worth it. The plot twists kept me on my feet. The world is beautiful and the character development. I love how the magic abilities become stronger based on the stones that essentially bond you. I love the involvement of crystals and birth months. Plus the elemental magic.
August 24, 2022
This book is a fast paced, high fantasy, solid read. The world is fleshed out with a really interesting magic system and magic history. It has all the makings of a great story and the prose in the first few chapters surrounding the mysterious melody Valeri hears is so beautiful. It depicts beautiful female relationships, from friendships to sibling, to found family, and these relationships were by far my favorite.
The biggest strength of the book is its well organized plot. The biggest weakness is that it feels like the author mapped out the plot and then placed characters in it without taking the time to develop them. The characters feel like vehicles for the plot rather than the plot serving their stories. It makes it more difficult to care about the stakes when I’m not connected to the characters, especially Valeri. Along with that, the dialogue comes across awkward, clunky, and it doesn’t read naturally. The effect is that the dialogue takes the reader out of the story and functions as a mechanism for info dumping, which slows down the overall flow.
While not a perfect book, Mother of Pearl has a solid plot, intriguing systems, and interesting characters. It’s a fast, fun read that fantasy readers should check out.
The biggest strength of the book is its well organized plot. The biggest weakness is that it feels like the author mapped out the plot and then placed characters in it without taking the time to develop them. The characters feel like vehicles for the plot rather than the plot serving their stories. It makes it more difficult to care about the stakes when I’m not connected to the characters, especially Valeri. Along with that, the dialogue comes across awkward, clunky, and it doesn’t read naturally. The effect is that the dialogue takes the reader out of the story and functions as a mechanism for info dumping, which slows down the overall flow.
While not a perfect book, Mother of Pearl has a solid plot, intriguing systems, and interesting characters. It’s a fast, fun read that fantasy readers should check out.
January 8, 2023
This book was given to me as part of the two southern smuts reading challenge. I am so happy I was given the opportunity to read it. I instantly liked the FMC Val, I was wary from the beginning of Prince Rulin and fell head of heels for King Nicholai. I need to know what happens next, though, after that ending. I love how the magic works in this world. It is like nothing that I have read before.
October 17, 2023
Okay this book kept things interesting from the very beginning to the very last sentence. The characters we do thought out and so good. The plot was so interesting and the twists that happen come from nowhere. You think you know what is happening and who a person is and then BAM the rug is pulled from beneath you. The details on the book make you so drawn it you don’t realize how quickly the book is close to ending. The story flows effortlessly and it leaves you with a cliffhanger that makes you wonder what the heck is she going to do next. This book kept me continuously intrigued and there isn’t really any spice in detail so for it to be a 5 ⭐️ from me the storyline has to be really good. And it was! Definitely keeping an eye out for book two!
September 1, 2022
I had the chance to ARC This book while it was on pre-order before it came out! At first I was a little skeptical being that it was her first book and I haven't read any fantasy books yet but love all the movies! I am so glad I took a chance on this book because I was instantly hooked and could NOT put the book down for one second I was addicted! I was glued from start to finish there were so many twists and turns that I loved tried guessing a head of time to the love of Val and Rulin to the ending rage that Val has. A little Cliffhanger at the end making me wanting more, I will patiently be waiting for the release and part two!
August 22, 2022
This story was enchanting, infuriating, vigorating, and all around a fun read! I loved Val and Amelia in the beginning as they just went about their lives trying to survive but still making the most of it with one another. I honestly felt bad for Val when she woke up in a different kingdom so far away from her sister, but also knew that with how strong she is she was going to be fine. She's smart, she's got great instincts, and she knows how to make the best of a bad situation! I was skeptical about Rulin in the beginning, he was too good looking and was trying to hard to come across as kind and I'm kind of glad I was because after meeting Nicholai I'm firmly on his side. I mean I was before based off an inkling I had when we were introduced to the high priestesses but having a pretty face didn't hurt! Speaking of the four high priestesses despite reminding me of AHS's Coven season of witches, I did not like them they infuriated me but damn if they didn't do a good job of firmly standing with Val. I hope that the next book Val will able to get peace and vengeance and maybe a little something something from good ole King Nicholai wink wink! Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews