Books most popular in the United States●Sci-Fi & Fantasy

Release date: 2015-05-05 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $14.99

Comments

1. First Book After Awhile - I had so much fun reading this book, as it’s been the first i’ve read in a few years. I have never read a fantasy before and this has me hooked! what a great story about love, friendship, hardships, the trade-offs of life, and more! can’t wait to continue with the other books.
2023-03-19

2. Good for what it is - Story is easy to get into, strong female lead rather than the brooding damsel in distress most YA novels have. However, sjm writes like she doesn’t have a thesaurus. Repeats the same descriptors for everything, “ripped to ribbons” “mirth” “bowels turned watery” “metallic tang”. Some of the plot also seemed lazily written, but honestly, if you want an easy read and have a thing for faeries, give it a try. Hopefully the rest of the series has more depth.
2023-03-11

3. Fun Story - I didn’t know what to expect when I read this, only that I had seen young women in the bookstore buy it and check it out. I didn’t even know it was romance — just that it was some fantasy story about fairies. I really enjoyed this book and the story. I enjoyed the series as well, though I thought it started stronger than it ended.
2023-01-24

4. Hooked! - The imagination of the different courts and they way they were brought to life beautiful. I loved the character development. The characters were all so deep and unique. I appreciated that there was spice, but like the right amount of spice Not too much detail just enough to know what’s goin on lol and not a lot of it either. Thanks I could end with this book and be happy… though I doubt I’ll be able to stay away from reading the rest.
2023-01-23

5. Obsessed - I hesitated starting this series as I’m not really a fantasy person, the only books I have read in that genre are Harry Potter! It had so much hype that I had to try it- Omg I finished it in days. I did not want to do anything but read this book, my sleep schedule was so jacked up cause I refused to sleep. I love the way this author writes, she world builds so beautifully and the characters are just chefs kiss. Just start it now, I’m mad I didn’t start sooner.
2023-01-14

6. Fantastic world, and a whiny girl - Feyre is an intense-willed and skilled young human world. She was doing her very best to keep her family alive and together. A promise made years before at her mother's deathbed. The world creation of Prythian and the Realms of the High Lords of Faerie offers excellent potential. In this first novel, Sarah Maas lays out the magic system and geography basics. At the time of the first novel, most fae considers the mortals (humans) to be little more minor animals available for their entertainment and use. The author provides some history of the conflict between the fae and humans, just enough to know that the dispute is not resolved and will take little to provoke a war. The story is a fairytale based on the Capulet and Montague feud mixed with the Snow White and the Mistress of All Evil dynamic of two women in a less physical battle than an emotional and mental one. I enjoyed the idea of the story, the magic system, and the different fae. I feel there is so much potential here. However, Feyre is a whiny young female in the book's first third. Are teenage girls this whiny? I don't recall them being that way when I was a teenager. Then a radical shift to the undying love for another and the rise of mighty women. Most of my disappointment with this story was the protagonist came across as so two-dimensional, and her growth as a person was rapid and difficult to believe. I have heard the second story is better. I like the basics enough that I will give it one more book to engage my attention fully.
2022-12-29

7. Pretty good - This was a little fan fiction-y, it definitely has a Twilight feel to it. I think the level of writing is lacking a little, but the characters and the story line are certainly intriguing. I wasn't going to get the next book, until I read of the end of this one, and now I need to know that Rhys actually gets her.
2022-12-08

8. Best Book & Series You Will Ever Read - This book consumed me. It is written in such detail that you truly live the story along with Feyre - you feel the joy, the stress, the romance, the grief, the love, the fear, the adventure, the guilt, and every emotion in between. I could not put it down! The entire series is the same way, the characters and complexity will capture your heart. You HAVE to read it!
2022-12-05

9. pacing? - this book is all over the place. the pacing is insane, and I had the hardest time with some of the "logic" and none of the characters grew or changed very much of their own, everything is granted. felt like a bad twist on beauty and the beast. that being said the two steamy scenes are nice.
2022-12-04

10. Omgggg! Cauldron save me - Wow…. I’m so glad I found this series. It is probably my favorite series by far!!! I read the whole series in a week. I couldn’t for the life of me put the books down. It has everything… spicy romance, suspense, action, and plot twists to knock you around & around again. / recommend
2022-11-23

11. An ending worthwhile… - To be honest I’m not someone who normally reads this genre but I got this book because everyone on tik tok was raving about it and it took me a very long time to get through the first half but once I got to the second half I couldn’t put it down I got sucked into the story falling in love with the book and having to reread it all over again definitely worth the read.
2022-09-20

12. Good, cheesy, and frustrating. - I did enjoy reading this first book, and I think others will too. It’s just a little predictable and cheesy in some places. It feels like other fantasy novels, with it’s “split” world, headstrong protagonist, and, of course, magic. It could be deeper and juicier, but it’s definitely not bland. Overall, it’s a pretty good read for young people into fairy romance.
2022-09-09

Release date: 2016-05-03 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $14.99

Comments

1. Amazing - Oh… I love this book SO much. There’s something that speaks so deep about this book. One version of yourself being dead and the things you once loved and needed were no longer those same things… finding and loving who you truly are and choosing that for yourself and not for someone else… Finding your home and family… and FIGHTING for them… SO looking forward to the next book. More Spicy than the first book btw but I didn’t mind it. I you Rhysand
2023-01-23

2. Everything else is now compared to this book - As a reader, for me there is before A Court of Mist and Fury, and after it. The toughest part is that I’ll be chasing the thrill I had reading this book for the first time, possibly forever and may never find it again. I’ve read the whole series and I’ve read this book multiple times now. It’s comforting, powerful, raw, sexy, riveting and hopeful all at once. The feeling I have reading this book, is exactly why I love reading—being completely transported to another world and feeling fully immersed there. Put simply, I love it and cannot recommend it enough.
2023-01-08

3. IT JUST KEEPS GETTING BETTER - Y’all, this is a star series. The second installment is shattering and soul crushing in all the right ways, nice and lengthy and full of intrigue, romance, action, and wit. It’s impossible to put down, impossible not to try and stretch toward the ending with desperate fever to find out how it all ends. Mass is a MASTER. Do yourself a favor and READ THIS SERIES!!
2022-09-12

4. intoxicating book for dreamers - this series couldn’t have come into my life at a better time. something lost in the world, trying to find my way with only me and my dreams. this book was intoxicating and although not of this world helped me grasp my world. helped me once again fight for my dreams. along with making new ones.
2022-08-23

5. I’m obsessed - The first book took me a little bit of time to get into but I overall really enjoyed it. This book, however, blew the first one out of the water! It was so well written and she truly expanded the world we were exposed to in the first book into something new entirely. Amazing, from start to finish. I think this will go down as one of my favorite books ever. /, cannot recommend enough!
2022-08-12

6. What the in world… - It’s been years since a series has gripped my attention this hard. I cannot begin to express how amazing it is to read about a character that loves, that grows, that teaches the reader that change is hard but sometimes better than you could ever imagine. My imagination hasn’t been tapped into like this in a long time. If you’re debating on reading this, I’m telling you to go for it.
2022-07-29

Release date: 2023-03-24 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $7.99

Release date: 2017-05-02 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $14.99

Comments

1. I have fallen in love with this family - The inner circle is a true family. Maas conveyed their bonds and dedication to each other beautifully. This book had me angry, sobbing, and laughing. What a beautiful world Maas has created, and I’m so happy I read this series. This book was different from the last one in that it was less about romance and more about growth and fighting until you can’t. This book is full of strong characters and I am so happy I’ve gotten to know them all through these books.
2022-04-01

2. Phenomenal - Everything in this book makes me sit on the edge of my seat. The wondrous plot and character development made me shed actual tears. The more I read the more I’m attached to these characters and their fictional lives. I spend every free moment reading. I never expected for there to be such a grip on me in this way, but am beyond glad my friend gifted me the first book. I finished this minutes ago and have already purchased the th book. All I can say is, don’t skip this series.
2022-02-25

3. Breathtaking - Sarah J Maas created a beautiful, terrible, ethereal world that makes your heart race as you read. She weaves deep feelings and visions into easily flowing paragraphs, and catches every loose thread with care and intention. I was especially fond of the light-handed queer relationships woven into the storyline, the most gentle mirror of our own experiences I’ve found in fantasy writing. My favorite book yet.
2022-01-30

Release date: 2018-05-01 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $12.99

Comments

1. Love the series… hate kernel - These books are amazing. I’ve finished in the last days. But seriously, for the love of god, please tell me she stops using the word ‘kernel’ in her other books. I feel like I can’t make it a single page without seeing this word. “A kernel of power,” sure. But “a kernel of information,” “a kernel of shattered glass”…??? There are other words. Please use them.
2022-12-25

2. Good insight - I bought this after reading the reviews. I’m glad I did and I enjoyed reading it. I’m not sure why so many are complaining that this was a waste? There is a disclaimer that states this isn’t a necessary book to read in the series. It’s just a closer, more intimate look into the characters. I started reading the next book first, then I went back and bought this one to read first. I’m glad I did actually because though it’s not necessary, it does help to get a better grasp on what continues to happen in the next book. Plus what’s not to love about learning more from the characters you’ve grown to love or loath?
2022-12-22

3. lovely - i ALMOST didn’t read this book , ALMOST from the terrible reviews it seemed not worth reading so i haven’t in the months since I bought it but i sat down a said to myself it can’t be that bad you love these characters & the author an i DO NOT REGRET reading it it’s a sweet glimpse into their everyday lives with different points of view from all characters an what each is feeling after a brutal war an years of torment for some an a few years for others it showed a different side to each character an it took me into their everyday lives it was short an sweet an i loved it . i didn’t go into it thinking it was gonna be a bunch of drama or huge plot so if your looking to just glimpse into the lives after the war after all the pain an sorrow of Feyre , Rhysand , Cassian , Azriel , Morrigan , Amren , Elain & Nesta this will Be wonderful read . it made the characters seem human an relatable it also made them more real then any of the other books have ! it was a lovely read an i dont regret a moment of time or money i put into this book !
2022-07-19

4. It’s important to understand what this is before you start reading it. - This book gets a lot of hate, but I enjoyed it. I think it’s important to go into it with the understanding that it’s not like the previous books. It doesn’t further the plot line in any way, but it’s just a nice quick glimpse of what their love is like during a time when their lives aren’t on the line. I can understand being disappointed in it if you didn’t know what to expect beforehand, and can see how it would seem ‘pointless’ since nothing exciting is really happening. But if you’re a person who just wants a little more of the love story without the action & danger, it’s a nice expanded happy ending to the previous book.
2022-04-05

5. If you read this, read these books. - This series is one unlike I’ve ever read, and probably will read. The DYNAMICS. The CHARACTERS. The DIALOGUE. The DESCRIPTION. Don’t hesitate to read these books!! I never thought someone could take a character and change them and a reader’s feelings for them so thoroughly, and make the reader feel so deeply. What Maas does is magic, pure magic. I haven’t just read these books, I’ve been immersed in a story unlike any other that I haven’t been able to put down. I read a LOT and I don’t think I’ll ever get over the impact these books have left on me. I want to scream to the world about how amazing these books are, but these reviews will have to do.
2021-11-19

6. What happened? - First three books were phenomenal! I read the reviews but still bought this one because I figured it would add to the conclusion. I was greatly disappointed in this book. Not much happens in this book, not worth the $. I still gave three stars because I love the first books. I don’t recommend buying this one. I hope she goes back and rewrites and sums it up more.
2021-10-08

7. wholesome but i felt like i had to read it - because it was the book before acosf i felt like i would miss out some things if i didnt read it but its really just a happy ending to feyre and rhysand WHICH WAS SO GOOD!!!! if you domt want to read this book i say just look up a summary on cliffnotes and skip to acosf. BUT I REALLY ENJOYED ALL THE WHOLESOME PARTS ASWELL.
2021-07-13

8. Hm...k? I guess - I read other reviews and knew what I was getting into with this one...not much. As one reviewer wrote, a Christmas special. I could have done without and had it center around Feyre’s BDay instead. XMas isn’t a happy-go-lucky time for everyone. But I read so I didn’t miss anything in the series. Ms. MAAS, thank you for the effort, but let’s not put your readers through something like this again.
2021-03-03

9. Unfinished and TBH too fluffy - This book really didn’t stand on its own very well. I have enjoyed the other books in the series, but they were about good vs evil and strong female characters an this one was about...real estate? It just seemed a little too domesticated for these characters. The author agrees in the Q&A in the back that the book is a little more than a novella, but it’s not really described as such. Good for a quickie, but be warned it’s just a Christmas special with no real story or teeth.
2020-05-28

10. Loved if - It’s a sweet way to say goodbye to some of the storylines, while at the same time opening up some other ones. I love the characters so much, I’ve re-read the series more times than I can count. This novella was so cute, well-written (as usual), and just lovely. I can’t wait for the next installment. My favorite series to date!!!!
2020-04-21

11. Hear me out. - I know a lot of people are kind of disappointed with this, but I loved it. It was just the right thing for me to end the series (for now) as I got a little glimpse of their lives after the war. I will take any small part of story SJM will give because I love the characters and story so much. But SJM also explains a little on why it’s a novella and her reasons are perfectly sound. Nesta’s story is supposedly next after this, so I am excited!
2020-02-25

Release date: 2023-03-24 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Contemporary $7.99

Release date: 2021-02-16 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $14.99

Comments

1. Very shocked of how much I enjoyed this read - Nesta was a hard character to like in the other acotar books. I was very hesitant to read from her POV. The first couple chapters she’s still pretty hard to enjoy. Once she finds friendship, love, happiness and now me understanding why Nesta feels the way she does… I couldn’t stop smiling and cheering Nesta on. Silver Flames now is by far my favorite of the series! So much growth and girl power!
2023-03-23

2. Ruined the characters - The first books build up Rhysand and show him as a man that values choice over everything and will even sacrifice himself for his friends/family. This book took all the good about Rhysand and destroyed it. Nestsa’s POV was so hard to read. She was so awful! I think Cassian deserved better. Her family should have left her in her sad apartment and just cut her off financially. Let her live the life she wants/her choice, but make her find a way to pay for it herself. This book ruined the series for me.
2023-03-01

3. Too many loose ends - The previous book and the first / of this book were just written to give Nesta back story of her own self loathing. It became unbearable. I get it, she’s awful. FINALLY it was so good at the end, but what about Elain and the build up between her and Az? Lucien? What happened to him? And Mor? How do you build up these stories then leave them open? I hope this is just the “most recent” and not the “final” book in this series because I’ve become too invested at this point to be left hanging in so many characters that were left open with this. Also, she spent way too long making me hate nesta that I barely even liked her at the end.
2023-02-08

4. Overused cliches and tiredly overwritten porn mislabeled as YA - Overused: "bared [her] teeth and "former" and "latter". Overwritten: unnecessarily explicit sex that have n business being in a YA book. Not to mention they drone on so long you have to actually skip pages to prevent losing attention to the true story. This book does zero justice to the series. And don't write in a "critical" challenge that can be easily avoided with a solution that is fundamental to the character (read: SHAPESHIFTER could have avoided the issue by SHAPESHIFTING) Ms. Maas needs a better editor. But perhaps making Times' BSL excuses the terrible trash interspersed throughout her books.
2023-01-31

5. “For every Nesta out there— climb the mountain” - Nesta’s book absolutely broke me into a million pieces but healed me along her journey. The way SJM is able to portray mental illness through out Nesta’s book is absolutely incredible. I don’t think I’ve ever related to a character more than her and it gives me hope, to be loved by someone as good as Cassian!
2022-07-22

6. Nesta FTW - It’s really hard to make such an unlikable, cold character redeem themselves but SJM does it so well and makes it believable. Nesta is raw, unfiltered, and bold; I was growing bored of the perfect heroine who-can-do-no-wrong trope of the previous books and this was refreshing, relatable, and unpredictable. There were a few points when the plot dragged (blood rite, although I understand this information will be important in the future) and I needed a bit more steam, which is easy if you skim ahead a few pages (plenty of steam to go around). I’m looking forward to Elaine’s story and finally figuring out what Mor and Eris’s big secret is…
2022-06-27

7. Floored - Nesta’s story was beautiful, I am crying writing this. I felt such a connection with her character. I am sad that I’m done reading her story. It might become the first book I actually re-read. Thank you Sarah for your amazing writing style, imagination, and willingness to share your stories.
2022-06-20

8. Loved - Love this series. I hope another book is to follow. Maybe from Elaine’s perspective and if she chooses Lucien as her mate or not. To know what happens with tamlin. And about a possible alliance with heron and koschei that may start more friction between the courts. And Eris and morrigan. I just don’t want this series to end just yet with so much left unanswered!
2022-06-19

9. PORN ALERT!!!! - This should not be listed as young adults. This book has total porn in it. I’m sad because the other books were fine, and maybe had a little bit but they mostly left it to the imagination. I like the book it just needs to be labeled as what it is. It is an adult book. And a very smutty adult book.
2022-05-25

10. Series favorite - I love all of the books in this series. This book gives us insight into Feyre’s oldest sister, Nesta’s struggles. It’s a beautifully written love story that includes real but also well-balanced portrayals of mental health struggles. The first part is hard to read because it resonates so much. That just makes Nesta’s journey all the more meaningful and beautiful.
2022-05-11

11. It’s Nesta’s Turn - At first I was disappointed that the focus was on Nesta because she has been such an unlikable character, BUT Sarah absolutely did Nesta justice by beautifully crafting her story from a angry caterpillar to a powerful butterfly. The sex scenes were surprisingly more explicit and even porn like but it’s fitting for the characters who are partaking in the sex. The graphic language distinguish more of their personality, separate from the mild sex scenes with Rhys and Feyre. Overall, great read.
2022-04-09

12. out of stars - This is the most perfectly written book I have ever read. Ever. In all of my years of living. I’m not usually into fantasy magic beastly books but somehow I stumbled upon ACOSF and I’m so thankful that I did. It kept me riveted and breathless I barely slept for days straight. Nesta is the most unique FL I’ve ever come across. She’s prickly and obnoxious and downright insufferable at first but by the end of the book I would gladly die for her. THE BEST character arc you can come across. Also, I find it incredible that the sex doesn’t take away from or lessen the impact of the story despite the raunchy language! I can’t find anything negative to say except that I couldn’t discern the era. But even that wasn’t a problem because it’s a fantasy world and I made peace with it. Thank you for sharing Nesta’s story with us. I am forever changed.
2022-02-25

Release date: 2023-03-21 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Paranormal $14.99

Comments

1. Disappointing - Very disappointed in this book. Spent pages reading about Anita complaining about her shoes. Should have just taken them off right away, maybe something of substance could have happened then. Where has Anita the warrior gone? She is now Anita the complainer. She’s been living with the same groups for years, does she really need to be reminded about everything all the time? “They can hear you…” Is she really that forgetful? And nothing happened in this book, nothing, and ended so suddenly. Agree with other reviewers, there are perhaps - chapters worth of good reading in this one. Wait for a sale, not worth the full price.
2023-03-24

2. Where’s the rest? - I feel kinda like my action/adventure/romance/fantasy series has gone soap opera. Long on conversation, short on action for our Leading Lady in this book. It feels more like a chapter instead of a full length book and that’s disappointing considering how much it cost. Still, eagerly awaiting the next “chapter”.
2023-03-21

Release date: 2012-02-15 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Epic $2.99

Release date: 2020-10-07 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Paranormal $0.99

Comments

1. HILARIOUS, POINANT, UNIQUE PREMISE - WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF YOU AND YOUR INNER WOLF DIDN’T GET ALONG I really like shifter books so I've read a lot of them. But it never occurred to me that maybe one body wasn't big enough for the two to coincide. What if the two were fighting all the time over who gets to wear what body, and both of you were just as demanding? I really enjoyed the audio review copy of this duology, because the narrater was very good and was able to keep the story moving very clearly. I always understood who was in what form, and when Olivia's visions flowed into and out of her real life to help her, it was fascinating and easy to follow. It's always fun to revisit characters from previous books and this time it was The US President from WOLF LEGASY QUARTET" who, in the beginning of book , needs Olivia's archeological help. Great tie in! Maybe Olivia and her pack can come back again for an encore in someone else's series. They're a great gang
2022-07-27

Release date: 2018-04-24 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Science Fiction & Literature > High Tech $1.99

Release date: 2018-08-30 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Epic $2.99

Release date: 2012-02-15 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Epic $2.99

Release date: 2020-03-03 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $13.99

Comments

1. Not sure - I’ve read both ToG and ACOTAR series by SJM and this one just didn’t do much for me. The world was only so interesting and it took forever for the action of the plot to pick up. I wanted to like the characters but just didn’t feel that strong pull for either Bryce of Hunt. Not like the other series. The book was way too long for all the action to happen in the last pages. I need to take a break before reading the nd book
2023-02-11

2. Hold on because the second half is where the magic is. - The first third of the book took me months to read. I was not very interested. Then suddenly, I found I could barely keep up with all of the action, character reveals, and drama. It is beautifully written with painstaking detail to a magical cruel world! That’s why I kept going. I am definitely glad I did.
2022-08-28

3. I tried - I really tried to read this but it was honestly irritating to get through. I didn't enjoy the language choices and it felt juvenile for an adult book. Couldn't make it through deep enough to see if there were other writing elements that would make it worth it (i.e. plot developments and what not)
2022-08-14

4. OMFGGGG - BEST BOOK EVER. I love love lovedddd ACOTAR so freaking much and was looking for another story to be completely immersed in and this book did not fail every piece of this book coming together at the end and then leaves you wanting more. Literally just finished and about to start book right now!!!
2022-07-15

5. At First…But Then…! - It took me a couple tries to get past the first few chapters. I didn’t get what all the hype was about, It felt like a cable teen drama with sci fi characters at first. I felt like there were so many supporting characters, and details, and it was too much. Then things started to click together like a puzzle…and crescendo into a story that I could not put down. I mean up until :am reading sessions!! Really amazing story!!
2022-07-12

6. A fantastical murder mystery - I had no idea what to expect going into this from ACOTAR and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. It starts off a little slow, but once you get past the first couple of chapters, the story picks up pace and takes you on a wild ride! The plot line was crafted very well, a stronger plot than some of Maas’s other books. The murder mystery keeps you guessing and I had theories as to the end but the actual ending is so much better than my theories. I’ve started book ! Can’t wait for book next year!
2022-07-09

7. Great read if you’re not a critic… - It was fantastic…. Ok.. There were some things that could probably have been better but this daggone book made me cry four times before it was all over and done with. And I would have given the book five stars of cheer perfection had the reveal not come in the form of a tire squealing hard left turn. I appreciate that she wanted to solve the “whodunnit” but I wasn’t fond of how she tied it all up. However once I shrugged my shoulders and got over it, the remainder of the book was PHENOMENAL. It pulled at all the heart strings, wraps up items that I had actually forgotten about after pages and has a great lead into the next novel. I like the world building of the City and variety of characters! I CANNOT WAIT to read House of Sky and Breath!
2022-05-19

8. Too Good!! - I’ve read all her series and can’t pick a favorite but man this one is good! The characters are good to their core and so easy to love and the writing builds the world so well. For those of us with big imaginations, this is the kind of world we get sucked into and feel a part of as we read. The plot builds and isn’t easily guessed at. A great read all the way to the last page.
2022-02-23

9. It draws you in - This book had some predictable elements - but enough surprises to keep you engaged! A fascinatingly detailed government and social structure with exciting and engaging characters and citizens. Sexy, exciting and emotionally pulling - this is a fantastic example of modern fantasy (which does not use pgs. to describe a field or building)! Two thumbs up.
2022-02-23

Release date: 2017-06-01 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $2.99

Release date: 2020-09-29 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $2.99

Comments

1. Great book, Terrible Dresden book - [SPOILERS] I was excited for this book. I was terrified of what might happen because people die in war. Who would Harry lose? Who would fall defending Chicago? Well, the answer is one Harry Dresden Love interest and THATS IT. Not only did Murphy’s death seem cheap, but it’s literally a rehash of Susan’s except not as impactful. There was literally NO reason for Murphy to die. And worse, to not let Harry kill Rudolph? And make it seem like the reader should applaud this outcome? This plot point was HORRIBLY misused and just seems like a way to set Harry up with someone that can actually keep up with him. Which is just sad. I truly loved this series before this point and to have one of the OG characters killed for literally nothing? Not only that but to make Harry suffer the same pain over again just seems gratuitous and lazy at this point. It is possible to have Harry have growth without killing off a person he loves. And literally Murphy is the only one that dies. Everyone else got plot armor, but Murphy had to die. As the title says, it is a great book. But it is terrible within the context of the rest of the series. This isn’t the end of the Dresden Files but it’s the end of my participation in it.
2022-05-27

2. Jim Butcher Delivers - Fast paced, fueled-up, pure adrenaline. Battle Ground is more epic in battle and scale than it’s predecessors. The world of Harry Dresden comes alive in ways that always make us laugh, keep turning pages as fast as we can, and even cry. Battle Ground is a turning point in the Dresden files for sure; Harry is coming into a new era in his long life and what waits around the corner is going to be something that we (and he) has never seen.
2021-07-25

3. Worth the wait! - I’ve enjoyed this series so much over the years. Each installment shows Harry growing into a bigger and badder threat to the things that go bump in the night. My grandmother used to read these with me and I’m sure she would have gotten a kick out of these back to back books. Thank you Mr. Butcher, I hope there is more to come.
2021-01-15

4. Not my favorite - I like the Harry Dresden series. I have read all of the books and most of the stories. I am truly grateful to Jim Butcher for his imaginative presentation of magic as a physics problem. Indeed what I fell in love with about Harry Dresden Wizard PI of Chicago is that he couldn’t just “magic” his way out of problems. His Magic had a cost that had to be paid. His own, innate raw power was barely tamed by his youth but was sufficient to deal with the ectoplasmic elements that surrounded him, even while he learned from ancient masters of the craft and brushed elbows with the truly powerful beings of folklore, never-never and fae. I’m sorry Mr Butcher, in my opinion, in some ways you have become lazy. I enjoyed the book. It was a nice story and even tugged at my heart strings. But, there were too many convenient plot holes, hastily covered over with ‘magic’ that far exceeds the plausibility of a - year old novice wizard. These books would have me believe that immortal beings are systematically beaten by this figurative babe of magic who can apparently wield the very powers of creation. Diametrically opposed beings such as angels and daemons are not only able to tolerate each other’s presence but are able to ally against their very nature. It makes for fun fantasy but not very plausible realistic story telling. Mr Butcher, I am not an author. I do not question the challenges of your art. I am merely a fan who enjoys the escapism of a good story. I would say you delivered on many fronts but please resist whatever has been pushing you to find bigger and badder enemies. You are exploring credible space by examination of what makes an outmatched man punch above his weight class and prevail against the odds. That fight can occur in many shapes but it violates your own reality when it escalates too fast or to too high a degree. You tell us that these beings and their political bodies move at tectonic speed, but show us that they are just as capricious as human beings. —spoiler—- spoiler—- spoiler—- —spoiler—- spoiler—- spoiler—- I liked Karrin Murphy and thought she was a good grounding rod for Harry. There was no good reason I could see to kill her off unless your intent as an author is to explore the painful space of grief of a lover. If that IS your intent, and I honestly don’t know how you avoid that at this point, I urge you to go VERY slowly.
2020-12-31

5. Butcher being Butcher - Jim Butcher just keeps improving with each book, which is a frightening concept - he started off great with his first title and just doesn’t show signs of quitting. If you’ve been following the Dresden Files series, this book is a no-brainer. If you’re coming at this fresh, you REALLY should start from the beginning I’d the series with “Storm Front” and work your way through. You’ll thank yourself if you do :)
2020-11-13

6. Holy crow... - What an epic, tragic, and amazing chapter in the story of Harry Dresden. I had no idea, when I started this journey over a decade ago, that this is where it would lead, and I still have no idea where it’s heading, but that’s the kind of beautiful journey that Mr. Butcher has taken us on.
2020-10-23

7. Exhausting, but Worth the Wait! - After waiting a few years for Butcher to release a new full length Dresden tale, we get not one, but two books in short order. Thanks Jim Butcher. Couldn’t put it down. The new story arc in Battleground has lots of possibilities for new books. The only negative for me was the “battle royale” that made Battleground feel like one unrelenting fight scene at times. By the time it was over, I was just as tired as the characters, and felt a few more breathers in the form of plot development could have helped.
2020-10-02

8. Loved it - Peace talks had its own set of problems. I thought it was a bit underwhelming and a bit sleezy. After reading this, however, I have changed my mind. Peace Talks and Battle Ground should be viewed as one piece. And in that sense this was amazing. I loved every second of Battle Grounds. Very excited to see how this series ends before the BAT.
2020-09-30

Release date: 2017-06-26 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Science Fiction & Literature > Adventure $0.99

Release date: 2021-05-04 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Science Fiction & Literature > Adventure $12.99

Comments

1. Best book since sliced bread - I have read a few different books and most books i have liked but none have I liked to read more than this book. I don’t know fancy criticizing or book praising words so I’ll just say that I like this book so much that I bought the physical copy of it. If that’s not enough, I have also read it times over the span of a year. This book is great. I like rockets, I like science, I like weird energy storage methods I like aliens, All those are in this book.
2023-03-19

2. Even better than The Martian - I really enjoyed The Martian but found this book even better. I had a hard time putting it down. It’s a great and inventive story, dramatic at times and funny at others. The scientific details weren’t overwhelming and gave it a level of authenticity. If you liked The Martian, you’ll love this book.
2023-02-07

3. . - More like a . I really liked the amount of science vs what my husband calls “drama”. In other words, it had a nice balance to where I wasn’t just lost in all the science. It was all mostly understandable. I really liked the relationship between Ryland and his unexpected ally. Very interesting and emotional story of planetary salvation.
2023-01-23

4. Didn’t take light years to read! - Engrossing science fiction novel that had me from the first page. I devoured this book like I did the too meager rations we received in Army Ranger Training. Surprises lurked around every corner. Loved the meet up with an alien life form unlike any other imagined. Make sure you have a few days free before you start this thriller.
2022-12-28

5. Interesting concept but somewhat annoying execution - Weir’s “The Martian” was a tour de force that his followup novels “Artemis” and now “Hail Mary” don’t match. Both have interesting concepts but the writing is often flat, with puerile asides, a shallow narrator, and distractingly pedantic explanations that both interrupt the story flow and suspension of disbelief. “The Martian” showed similar proclivities but somehow stayed on the right side of them. “Hail Mary” is better than “Artemis,” and had a stronger narrative and more creative premise. It deserves no awards, but can be a pleasant-enough beachside read.
2022-12-17

6. Murphy's Law Rules - This book reminded me of "The Martian" and then I got to the end and realized it's the same author. The entire story really is all about Murphy's Law and how it snarls everything up. The characters are really done well and the problems and solutions are about as hard core as anything in Hard SF.
2022-12-09

7. The best science fiction since Clifford Simak and the Strugatski brothers - In the world of science fiction, there is one thing that authors don’t do. Well, almost never do. Create an alien world. There is good reason for that. It’s darn difficult! Many writers end up with some sort of human like race, but, say, green - just to be different. Only the true ones go head first into that. Create an alien world, different from ours, that still makes scientific sense, and looks, well, real! Andy Weir is one them and one of the best too! Amazing!
2022-12-04

8. Engaging - I never thought a interaction in space with an intelligent being would ever hold my attention. I was wrong, this is a fantastic read that I highly recommend. The science included pushes the story along and I happily chased it through several twists I didn’t see coming. Very well written.
2022-11-24

9. Good Sci-fi - Good entry-level science fiction. Easy to read and follow. The twists are (for the most part) not telegraphed and remain surprises. Spoilers!!! The story lacks a certain “grounding”, unfortunately. Let’s start with the premise. The sun is dimming significantly. Humanity has unlimited energy and all of humanity’s cooperation. Why build an interstellar space ship? Why not just build a reflector array or some other “local” device? Because you won’t be able to meet aliens that way! Don’t get me wrong; I love a good alien story. But it all seemed a little too likely. The author attempts to address this with a hand wave (as he does for much of the plot) but it leaves a mealy, unsatisfactory, taste. I appreciated the character building and plot development… for the most part. Sadly, the most interesting plot device (Grace’s memory loss and his subsequent memory redemption) starts great but develops into a generic b-plot. Grace regains his memory linearly and the two stories run parallel in time. This is not how amnesia works and half way through the novel the guise of “remembering” is dropped entirely. The is the most disappointing aspect of the novel. The author missed a huge opportunity for creative storytelling. Rocky and Grace’s characters, however, are well fleshed and convincing. Rocky is a little too anthropomorphic with a full range of emotions and motivation but being the only other character with whom Grace can interact, I suppose it’s understandable. Still, another missed opportunity. Other characters, like Stratt, are obvious plot drivers who give off very tangible “told, not shown” or “plot armor” vibes. This is just lazy writing. Now the sci-fi aspect. Great as expected. The real science and “fake” science blend fairly seamlessly. Of course it’s obvious when the author expects you to just believe something but it’s not so ham-fisted as to cause one’s eyes to roll. For me, good science fiction makes it hard to distinguish between reality and fantasy. This novel does a decent job and I found myself googling here and there to see if the author was making something up or not. Regardless, the suspense is there. The urgency is there. The thrill and chill are all there. But the story is just average. Grace is swept up, unwilling, into a huge project to save humanity, the responsibility of which rests squarely on his shoulders alone. He learns he’s not a coward; he discovers just how brave and heroic he can be. He saves humanity and the Eridians too. And, presumably, dies doing what he loved most: teaching. You wanted warm and fuzzy, right? / elbows too pointy
2022-11-19

10. Hail Mary - I love Andy Weir’s stuff. This book, however, was a mishmash of chemistry lessons and Spaceballs. Parts were very good but it moved too slowly, gave too many detailed chemistry lessons (normally I love those parts but this was definitely overkill), and pushed some space alien envelopes a bit too far. Still it kept me mostly entertained.
2022-10-17

11. This book got me back into reading - I LOVE this book. I started with the audiobook and bought the ebook because I thought a chunk of the audiobook had been cut out (you’ll understand why if you listen to it). Now I’ve listened all the way through twice, bought the hardcover and read it through as well. I was not a reader in school or as a young adult. I tried a few different Stephen King books my wife had but could never finish them. I was scrolling through Reddit late one night and came across a thread with book recommendations. For some reason this one I noted down and downloaded the audiobook a few days later. I’m so glad I did. The idea behind the story is so interesting to me, and the author did an AMAZE job bringing it to life. I liked this so much I sought out, bought, and read the author’s other two books. Thank you Andy Weir for writing such an awesome book.
2022-08-05

12. Touchdown for Humanities’ Sake - Wake up, alone, except for a robot asking you to name yourself. That is when you realize your only knowledge is that you know how to speak. That is Dr. Ryland Grace’s life. Everything that comes after is new information, and for Dr. Grace, muscle memory skills he didn’t know he possessed trigger memories of how he developed the skill. But how he acquired that skill, he can’t recall. From this point, the story progresses as he learns about his situation and flashes of memory. This story is the kind of science-fiction I enjoy. Very well researched, many people may find some of this story too detail-heavy; however, these passages show what we know and what society would need to address. When the author writes the fictional elements, it is not grandiose to the point of requiring suspension of disbelief. It is also limited to minor details necessary for the story to be possible. My qualm with this story is that it is typical of the United States: too many ideal endings to story elements. I’d give examples, but the end is what I think of as standard Hollywood. You don’t see any other country so incredibly positive in outcomes. The story is relentless forward, and while the pacing is good, if a little slow according to some of my siblings, the end races along until a bunch of good things happen. I will finish by saying that I enjoyed this story for the most part and will read more from Andy Weir in the future.
2022-07-11

Release date: 2022-02-15 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $18.99

Comments

1. Full circle - I’m so glad I stuck with this series. The plot and pace was so much better in this one than the st. The romance was better and I loved all the POVs for every character. Ugh agent day and night ahhh also the ending was wild. To have these characters mixed in with the others I need the next book now
2023-02-19

2. Third book??? Pleaseee!!!! - Where’s the next book in this two book series?…. I love Rhys and an author that brings loved characters into another story line is the all time tops.. but the only thing in the past year says nothing about a third book… how can you just tease us like that, ? Augh please let us know ASAP when there will be a third on this series
2023-02-08

3. An engrossing world in which to immerse oneself - The author’s creation of a world so foreign, yet familiar and modern. It was laced with references to our current culture and societies intertwined with a wonderful fantasy world of amazing creatures and beings. Her specific descriptors and characters are fascinating and difficult to tear oneself away from. Loved it and can’t wait to continue the saga.
2023-01-14

4. Good but forced down - The action is fine the sex is dumb and unneeded but I like the story. The world or worlds in this book are really cool and I like the idea of cities with all types of people in them. My largest gripe is that the book has twists and turns that are just dumb. Random twists that are really just plot holes are littered throughout the book. I don’t understand the need to have every character have some random secret agenda- wait what, it’s time for more sex that’s unneeded obviously sarah j Maas writes things she lacks.
2022-08-03

5. Amazing - I read this along with the first book in a span of a week. There was so many plot twists and interesting changes that nothing was predictable and the amazing group of characters made reading the book so easy and enjoyable. While some parts can be very dense when they are explaining the asteri and the history of midgard but after a while it all starts to make more sense. The final chapter was incredible shocking but made my heart ache with happiness i loved the way she wrote it. It’s going to be so hard to wait a year for the next book.
2022-07-24

6. Loved but… - I really did love this book but the ending left me feeling underwhelmed a little. Obviously leaving room for more to the series but I didn’t know what to do with myself after finishing it, I felt like a needed more closure. BUT still a great read I love the characters and can’t wait to see what’s in store for them
2022-07-20

7. An amazing experience with a ending that had me shocked yet excited - Trust me and everyone in the review section: this book was amazing to read. Mrs. Maas, you never fail to disappoint, and always leave me at the end of your books wanting more. Thank you for all the hard work, time, and dedication you spend writing these books. You truly are an amazing author. I can’t wait to read the next one!
2022-07-12

8. Cried. Sobbed. Threw up. Would do again - I don’t think I have ever read a book that put me through all the emotions on the spectrum at once. Literally one of the best books I have EVER read. Literally had a full on panic attack when I finished it was so good. Prepare to have your mind blown. There was nothing negative I had to say about this book. Nothing.
2022-05-15

9. Fantastic - I’ve been waiting for years for this book and it did not disappoint! I was truly impressed, as usual, with the direction Maas took. I will say that Bryce is not my favorite Maas heroine but I still love her. I also love that she decided to pull ACOTAR into this world and can’t wait to see where it goes!!! Thank you for continuing to build these worlds for us. In my opinion it will never get old!
2022-03-12

10. Wow, just wow. - I would say that this series started off a little rough for me in the first book. I missed the lands and characters of Sarah’s previous series but I dove into the second book willing to give it a chance. I cannot say how thankful I am that I stuck it out! The second novel is wonderful. I felt the character connections and lost myself in Midgard in a way that only Sarah has been able to do for me. And OMG, the end. Let’s just say I got exactly what I wanted and cannot wait to see what comes next! I highly recommend making sure to have read her other series first to fully appreciate this one.
2022-03-11

11. Idkkkkk - This doesn’t really hit my like the other series do. It lacks depth and good character development. Bryce always seems to be the perfect warrior defender hot woman at all times. She’s just always the same and childlike. It was really easy to see early on how the story was going to go. It pales in comparison to the depth of the ACOTAR series. Predicable, easy to digest and easily forgotten. An average read. I wish I hadn’t paid so much for it.
2022-03-01

12. GREAT SERIES, SO FAR… - SMALL SPOILER: WONDERFUL READ!!! My only issue was the ending… I felt it was slightly rushed, yet still not nearly completed! This action-packed, thrilling page turner just ends, right in the middle of all the chaos, no warning!! I’d almost call it a cliffhanger, but it didn’t quite feel that way, either. Very strange — especially in comparison to book . All together, it’s still an excellent read but, unfortunately, my rating is only stars this go round. I can’t wait for the next book in the series… looking forward to the discovery of even more dangerous worlds from her creative mind! Thank you!
2022-02-23

Release date: 2023-03-21 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $8.99

Release date: 2008-10-01 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $3.99

Comments

1. Enjoyable but could use some polishing. - This book is definitely an enjoyable read. However, it could use some polishing. It was as if Brent Week's editor grew tired of editing his work, and skimmed through the rest of it without bothering to correct some issues. I hope this review doesn't scare anyone from reading this book though! The plot and the characters were very interesting!
2014-11-17

2. A Dark Marvel - The Way of the Shadow is a superbly written novel, delving into the dredges of what it means to be human, to walk away from life or to accept and fight for what is right and what should not be allowed. The characters introduced are not inherently good, nor are their reasons morally right, but there is enough in their character that shows that in life there is a line, and when it cannot be crossed, the decision made will define who the character can be and whether redemption is possible. There are many crucibles in life for these characters and the following books will surely drive them to the breaking point. Some will come out alive and some will be broken beyond recognition. Brent Weeks is a master at character and world building. The history and characters are fully realized and beautifully described, making it easy to be drawn in and lost in The Way of the Shadows. Originally posted on goodreads
2014-04-05

3. Super A - Browsing bookstore and had not read a fantasy in years. Read the back cover and was hooked. Just finished reading this and one of the most gripping and action packed page turners I've had in a long time. Characters you can dislike, love and enemies you wish you were Kylar to put them away! Loved it and have bought the other in the series on iBooks. Could not put this one down! You won't be disappointed at all. Renewed my interest in fantasy, majic and sword play and this is more than I expected!
2013-07-18

4. Very great series - I thoroughly enjoyed the entire trilogy. Hard to put down, really. This is one of those rare "look up and it's am" stories. Not true high fantasy like Tolkien or Martin, more fast paced, good down and dirty fantasy. Reading this trilogy made me want to dig out and re-read the Belgariad or maybe the Black Company series. Worth the money, for sure!
2012-08-20

Release date: 2023-03-21 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy $9.99

Comments

1. I hate to rate this installment low… - I was looking forward to this for a longtime and found myself disappointed. It’s short and hardly anything takes place. The characters have this internal monologue all too often coming off as annoying than impactful repeatedly going on tangents only to shrug it off and there seems to be less illustrations by So-Bin normally providing some form of verification to imagery. I hope the next installment remedies this one’s shortcomings as it sets good foundation for things to come although fails to achieve any of the established foreshadowing hype.
2023-03-21

Release date: 2024-01-30 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Paranormal $14.99

Release date: 2023-11-21 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Paranormal $14.99

Release date: 2022-11-29 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Science Fiction & Literature > Adventure $1.99

Release date: 2018-09-18 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Science Fiction $9.99

Comments

1. Phenomenal story - I will avoid all manner of spoilers and simply say that this book is the optimistic counter-response to the dark forest explanation of the Fermi paradox. A fantastic journey that manages to not only tread new science fiction ground, but also engage in deeply interesting world building. I highly recommend all read this.
2023-03-06

2. A Great Tale - Imagine the roles were reversed and humans are the invading force over sentient beings that evolved BECAUSE of humans. How imagine the fear, the base level programming of humans, the attempt to save humanity and not knowing a thing about the other side. Imagine how evened a species must be to not only understand their creators, but use the very thing they created against them…to ultimately save them. This is a world-class story and clearly an award winner for a reason. Highly recommend this to anyone who loves sci fi, but has a keen interest in understanding what humans are all about.
2023-03-02

3. Webs - Give it time and you’ll soon realize it’s a book about what you think it’s about. You might put it down and think about reading something else. I promise you though this is a book about a lot more than creepy crawlers and has some really really fun things to think about and a few interestingly constructed comments on humanity. I absolutely loved this book.
2021-08-01

4. The smartest sci-fi book I’ve ever read (too smart for me) - Children of Time is a great book in the same way that Schindler’s List or : A Space Odyssey are great movies. They’re no doubt classics, extremely well thought out, depicted in an almost visionary way, and unappreciated until they’re over and you think back on them; but throughout the experience they become often boring and hard to follow. Children of Time suffers from this same problem: great book, if you can get through it. And you really have to be paying attention in order to fully understand it (which I wasn’t). But I still respect, appreciate and recognize it for everything it does. As I said, it does get a little boring and hard to follow, I got kind of tired of learning about all the anatomy and culture of the ants and spiders, but I understood why it was necessary. Children of Time excels pretty much everywhere, but has an especially unique approach to contrast. It puts a heavy focus on evolution, specifically accelerated evolution as one of the storylines follows the indigenous species that have evolved through human uplifting hundreds of years ago (there’s a little more to it, but I’m keeping it basic here, I’m not joking when I say the story is complex), which is why all the anatomy and culture are so important. During which, its portrayal of non-human main characters is so good, you almost forget that they’re not human. At the opposite end of the spectrum, another storyline has you following the few humans remaining in the galaxy as they begin to descend into barbarism out of desperation to survive while searching for a new home planet (again, there’s a little more to it). I love the multiple storylines and how they ultimately converge, the concept of human meddling and mortality, and the sense of what it means to be left behind in the grand scheme. With the sheer complexity of its story, the themes it tackles, and the uniqueness in which it does it, Children of Time is highly ambitious and epic in its scope and time-scale. Definitely check it out if your up for some heavy reading.
2019-06-28

Release date: 2018-11-20 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Epic $7.99

Comments

1. Wishful thinking but… - I was hoping we’d get an official ending to GOT, and not the HBO version before any of the origin stories. .) Simply because reading origin stories just makes you want to go back and re-read, then watch the original again with the new information. IF the series is GOOD. Which needless to say, GOT is. That being said… I loved learning about the Dragon family and their original conquer. It’s odd how it doesn’t bother me when THEY marry brother to sister but when the Lannisters did it, it was weird. Here’s hoping Martin decides to write an origin story for the Starks, their north and the original story for The Wall. Someone told me once it was done by Ice Dragon, but I guess we’ll never know how true that is. The Wolves are just as magical, and interesting as The Dragons IMO. Wrapping it up, this is a MUST for any GOT fans!
2022-11-28

2. Only for hardcore fans - This is a history book about the first Targaryen’s up until the end of the civil war that was their doom, the show “house of the dragon” is based on this book. If you want to know the truth of the show then read it, otherwise a waste of time. It’s written from the perspective of a maester writing a history book about the Targaryens. Which means it’s quite boring. They throw in enough sex and debauchery to keep people engaged but their is a serious lack or mystery or personality. It’s a history book remember. Dialogue is lacking and the endless names of lords and ladies is very boring. For hardcore fans like myself who prefer to read before watching shows it’s a great read. The civil war and tv show makes much more sense to me now. The redeeming quality: learning about the dragons of old and Aegon the conqueror. PS. After the civil war is over the book becomes useless but continues on for Pages
2022-11-28

3. I could not put it down! - I loved this book from start to end! You do have to really pay attention and sometimes even mark some names or note them to keep everyone in order but you start to get the order of things after a couple of chapters. I love the interconnected layers of story and characters that the author builds and creates and I love the unpredictability of his books! It’s a great read and hope we get a Vol II as George RR Martín has said he would likely do. Hopefully!! Bc i loved this book and would love a part !
2022-11-28

4. Decent at best, unnecessarily detailed and boring at worst - The first half of this history is enjoyable and tells enjoyable storylines. Aegon the conquerors tale through the old king Jaeharys is quite enthralling. The remaining half gets lost in an endless cycle of succession wars and conflict, which is only made worse by the unfathomable amount of lesser lords and ladies that come and go throughout this era.
2022-08-29

5. pages of nonsense - I love Game of Thrones. This book took me nearly a year to finish. The first - pages are decent, about Aegon the Conquerer, and gives decent back story regarding things in the series. The rest is written like a giant run-on sentence with characters who don’t matter and have names so similar, that even if they did matter, you can’t keep them straight. I gave this two stars and I’m not mad that I read it, but this could have been much better.
2020-04-25

6. Just and endless list of names with gruwsome deaths - Nothing in this list sparks interest. Grrm is well known for finding intricate ways of getting rid of one’s competitors. In this book he forgot to build affection between the reader and the character to be killed before the stroke lands. Seems like an endless list of meaningless deaths.
2019-08-17

7. A fantasy that’s welcome ,hbo are you paying attention? - What’s there to say that hasn’t been said already. I just hope hbo does this “prequel” justice unlike the massacre that was the final season of g.o.t. , the Targaryen bloodline is fascinating and the clever politics that are displayed in martins writings hold a parallel to any modern societal family in power,wether that be politics,entertainment,economically powerful groups. I like millions of others ,I will cherish the fantasy world that Martin has created...a little of us can relate and even see characteristics of ourselves in every character. This is an excellent tale that breaks the monotony of our robotic society. I just wish I had a fantasy time machine to see it all unfold. Thank you George for giving me over a decade of enjoyment.
2019-07-17

8. True Telling - As a fan of the GoT series I absolutely love this book, I realize a lot of people don’t like this because it’s written more as a history book instead of going in detail with each character. But while it doesn’t go j to as much detail with each character it still tells the beginning of Targaryen rule wonderfully. It has lore, story, twists and turns everywhere. It gets you to feel love and hatred and sympathy for characters in such a small amount of time. If you want to learn more of the history of the history behind our favorite series this is definitely a must. If you’re not into history books so much maybe just sample it and buy it if you you like it, otherwise just wait for the next book/season to come out.
2019-02-05

9. Lazy and useless - So if you’ve read the actual series then this book will make sense, character, landscape, and general tone wise. That is where the good ends. This book is lazy and unnecessary. It reads like a Wikipedia, simple, non commitment to character development, plot intrigue, nor particular social analysis. The plot is emotionally void and forgettable. Most the elements seem to be stolen straight from Russian and English royalty history and simply re worded and renamed. The challenge with a product like this is it is a clear cash grab and makes one wonder if the author ever really wrote the actual series or did he stumble across novels of someone else’s work and simply stole that too. As a popular line says: shame. Shame. Shame.
2018-12-16

10. Fire and Blood-but no MEAT - I LOVE the original series of books, but this seems a non-fleshed out history book. It just retells what happened. While you may get why people do what they do, it’s in a basic sense- not the fully realized and emoted way the original series paints landscapes of lives. It’s just kind of FLAT. You know who is flying which dragon where, and a very basic why - but not the feelings involved. Feels like he gave this to the fans because he had to give them SOMETHING.
2018-12-13

11. Horrible time waster - GRRM can’t finish the real saga he started, unlike true hall of fame fantasy writers like E Howard and Tolkien. He should step aside and let a professional like Sanderson finish it, GRRM just doesn’t want to admit he is a hack who can’t finish. His inability to write is threatening to destroy his legacy.
2018-12-12

12. Oof...this hurts. - If you’re already into the books AND you are ASoIaF completist, you’ll most likely find some joy in reading this book. If you’re just a book reader who is into the main series and not all the tertiary short stories and novellas, I suggest checking it out in a library or B&N before buying. It is dry. Very dry. “The World of Ice and Fire” is more interesting. Wish this was Winds, and I understand the mob of readers with pitchforks in their hands about yet another book that isn’t advancing the core story. The hate George gets about not publishing Winds on time is counterproductive; does he owe us the story? How would you like to see fans of your work turn on you? If you didn’t need to write another sentence again and could retire comfortably, you might consider giving the people who think you’re their puppet the finger. Best to keep the moaning to a low grumble.
2018-12-01

Release date: 2023-02-25 $13.99

Release date: 2023-11-07 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Paranormal $14.99

Release date: 2022-11-22 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Paranormal $14.99

Comments

1. Left Me Flat - I like the magic theme but another book centering around battle training over and over, and the epic battle that lasted a handful of pages? And then an ending where the epilogue doesn’t give us a glimpse of the new and better world where the great evil no longer exists? A let down after following the characters for three books.
2022-12-04

2. Another homerun! - What a book! I cried like a baby for the Dragons, and rejoiced when Ordain was where he needed to be. Of course we need book to find out how happy Breen, Keegan, Marg and the crew does in this new world…hint, hint!! Thank you Nora for putting your heart & soul into all you do. Blessed be.
2022-11-30

3. Great ending!! - This rd and final installment had me in tears. This was a very emotional book with Breene closing some chapters in her life and starting new ones. The dragons. The final battle. The love between Breene and Keegan. I think this finale did their story justice. I fell in love with many of these side characters, and the two worlds were brought to life with such color and wonder. You feel like you have fallen inside a story book fairy tale that does include some very, evil characters. After all, there had to be for Breene and Keegan to fight and concur. Keegan has been a hard character for me but he came through in the end. He's one of those men that keep their feelings close to the vest. He's honorable, loyal and in the end, he gave Breene what she really needed. Breene stayed true to herself all the way through even as she learned to shed her mothers moving and becoming who she really is. She was an easy character to love and wish great things for. This was a fun series to read!
2022-11-23

4. Satisfying! - There’s no one better to write a contemporary or fantasy story than Nora Roberts. With Breen and Keegan’s story coming to a suspenseful end, we find out who gets a happy ending and who gets a sad ending. Some are very satisfying while others are very heartbreaking. The secondary characters are just as fascinating as the main characters. Who doesn’t root for Marco and Brian? Or Nan and Sedric? All of Breen’s journey and knowledge will finally come to a head with Odran. I would have liked to see how life continues in Talamh six months to a year later.
2022-11-22

Release date: 1989-05-26 $3.99

Comments

1. Tedious - Stories told of a sojourn of semi interesting characters on a disjointed quest. Mindless details of what? Having read Dune, Foundation and Lensman series I expected something on that level and finished feeling that I had been bated into purchasing another book in order to have any sense of completing a story. There is no “hero’s journey “. No character the reader can identify with. Just a feeling that maybe I should not have spent the time reading this book.
2021-07-06

2. Overrated - What he tries to do in this book doesn’t work. If you’re going to make the narrative confusing and fractured, that’s fine, but it needs to come together at some point. Also the motivations of the characters were rarely clear and they didn’t always do stuff that was in character for them. Very disappointing for a book that I was told by everyone is one of the best sci-fi books of all time. I have no idea what the hype was about. It felt like a college student got high on LSD while reading Neuromancer, went to a Writing class that same day, vomited on the Canterbury Tales and tried to paint what dripped off into a novel.
2020-10-28

3. Enjoyed overall, didn’t enjoy ending - This was well written and interesting. Has all the hallmarks of a great book and a great Sci-fi book. However, I had no clue that it was pages of character building and background, ending in a cliffhanger. I wasn’t expecting that and was let down by that. Otherwise fascinating and fun.
2020-07-31

4. Meh. Don’t waste your time. - Bought and read this book because it had won a Hugo and was on many lists for good science fiction. Tbh I don’t know why. It has maybe four or five very good moments and by moments I mean paragraphs. The concept is interesting but the execution is bad and the plot is so full of holes and bizarre forced situations. Even looking back on it now the premise feels a bit half assed. Won’t go into to detail but it’s like some sort of hybrid monster story combined with space opera elements and then a structure where each section is a different characters personal story. All in all it’s really half baked. Love science fiction but for every neuromancer there’s hyperions and I just don’t like this kind of Corny half realized boring work. Aside from one or two little moments this book was a chore to finish and tbh I stopped half way through the consuls story and looked up the ending (spoilers it’s also got a cheesy half baked buy the next book in the serious ending because idk even know why the story is strangely stagnant) because I couldn’t endure another cheesy forced and bizarrely detailed Sex scene. / just read something else or even a better book again. Best part was private investigator lamia story, but then again that’s already a book and movie ;) that he just copied. Seriously who gave this a Hugo? Also even more points taken off for questionable homophobia and usage of the word f@ggt AND ALL OF THOSE GOD AWFUL CRACKPOT SEX SCENES.
2019-07-02

5. Amazing Find - I’m a lifelong sci-fi fan. I don’t understand why it took me until my th year of life to discover this series. It’s remarkable. It’s complicated. The characters are very well written. The emotions feel real. This book is a very good set up for my favorite sci-fi series. Is it difficult for you to imagine how John Keats’ poetry and life can relate to the political struggles and survival of the human race on hundreds of worlds millennia from now? Grab a copy of Hyperion, and let the fantastic journey begin.
2018-11-13

6. Waste of time - While it's obvious a great deal of thought went into creating the universe this book is set in, that to me is table stakes. Great fiction requires a compelling plot and characters on top of a thoroughly vetted stage, and equally great storytelling to weave it all together. The storytelling here is lazy. Separate, unrelated subplots are exposed, and you plod through them just to get to the resolution. But guess what? There is no resolution, no explanation. Nothing. The story ends just before the climax. A huge waste of time.
2014-09-30

7. Quite smart - Simmons is obviously quite intellectual, I felt like I learned so much "reality" that beyond my knowledge base...that the writing often transitioned into fiction without my notice. Is it possible to not just adore that snuggly little Shrike....hugs. Just bought the next book of the cantos. Only negative us authors name misspelled in "about the author" and that's worse than they treated Silenus. Boo digital editor!!
2014-07-12

8. Great series - This book is the first in a series but the series should really be just one long book. So to judge just this one book is hard to do...I have read the series and don't think about the individual books like I do with the Wheel of Time Series by Robert Jordan, for example. So my star rating is for the whole series. It is really a great story. And the end (of the series) which is great, really caught me off guard.
2013-03-17

9. One of the great imaginings of the future - If you're on the fence, get through the first couple of chapters and it all opens up. Simmons view of the future is startlingly easy to imagine yet still inventive. This book focuses on the individual stories of its characters--like Canterbury Tales--within a greater overall plot to which each person plays a role (it just will take more than this first book to reveal). Someone referenced this to me as "Sci-fi for grown ups." I was cautious at the start but soon found myself plowing through the series. Great book.
2013-02-01

10. Words or Less - The detailed, unique universal construct makes this novel shine. Yet, all that luscious background cannot hide the weakness of the story. Or I suppose I should say “stories.” This is Sci-fi Canterbury Tales. The entire novel reveals the history of the characters chosen for this specific mission. The individual stories are good enough, but after the fourth, I found myself skimming. It’s too unrelated. Too eclectic. And then comes the end … rushed, abbreviated, truncated, and nonsensical. All this sound and fury leading to nothing. Huge disappointment. And in some ways, a waste of my time.
2012-08-20

11. Horrible - The download contained only readable pages. The rest (?) were lost to 'formatting errors'. I paid a reasonable price and got the Prolog and Epilogue for my money. Given no way to request a refund, iBooks is becoming a real rip-off. This is not the first book that I've had this problem with. I'm becoming an ex-iBooks customer.
2012-05-18

12. Hyperion - Easily the most imaginative and compelling sci-fi series I have read. If Steven King 'is in awe of Dan Simmons" there must be something to his writing. Be warned though, "Hyperion" is only the first quarter of the story. The 'ending' which in my opinion was great, serves to whet ones appetite for the next three in the series, "Fall of Hyperion", "Endymion", and "RIse of Endymion." I couldn't get through them fast enough, and was sad that there isn't more. Besides his vividly imagined worlds and characters, Simmons is particularly interesting to read because all of his stories have a classic literature aspect to them. In the case of "Hyperion" it is the poet Keats and his life that are a key part of the story. I find this aspect of Simmons writing elevates the storytelling to a higher level, and probably sends many of his hardcore sci-fi fans to the broader horizons of the classics.
2012-04-18

Release date: 2010-04-01 Genre:Sci-Fi & Fantasy > Fantasy > Epic $9.99

Comments

1. A Must Read, Thrill Ride - Every reader needs to experience this series at least once. The thrills are fantastic. Just buy it and start, couldn't recommend enough. It's in my top book series of all time. That includes Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. Don't read anything about it in advance, just dive in.
2022-04-11

2. A masterpiece - I’ve tried to read a few different fantasy series lately and neither of them captured my intrigue as quickly and deeply as this. From start to finish, these characters are flawed, unique, and unbelievably lovable. The world set up in this first book has the perfect amount of mystery and detail that keeps you glued to the page. My coworkers recommended this series to me a bit too enthusiastically so I was skeptical. But this was worth every single second. Do yourself favor, clear your schedule, put your devices on do not disturb, and buckle in for this incredible ride. Also, avoid googling ANYTHING, just be patient and this amazing story.
2021-09-17

3. Slow to start but hard to put down - Had a hard time getting through the first few pages but by the early middle and especially the end, I was consistently looking for times I could pull up my book app. Insanely unique world building and magic system that had me asking questions but never got the wrong reasons. Bought the second book right after I finished this one!!
2020-08-23

4. Perfecto! - I was really hesitant about this book at first. Re-reading it makes you realize things you wouldn’t have noticed the first time. Kel seems more like a father after re-reading it. I would definitely recommend this book for anyone. After all, that would be one less secret, although, and I quote, “There’s always another secret.” Two words for anyone who’s read the WHOLE trilogy. Book three. I do NOT regret reading this book.
2019-06-21

5. Freaking Awesome! - I can't believe I just now discovered this book. Seriously one of the best fantasy novels. Entertaining, funny, great characters, a fully realized and detailed world. I had so much fun reading this book! And it packs a surprisingly emotional punch. Read this, don't hesitate. This sat in my queue for a long time and I can't believe I deprived myself of such an enjoyable book.
2016-12-18

6. Highly recommend Mistborn! - Brandon Sanderson has "rioted" my love for the fantastic, magical characters of Mistborn. This was my first epic fantasy novel and I suspect it will be a hard act for any other franchise to follow. Just good story telling. My emotions were "pushed", and "pulled" along with the characters' struggles and triumphs. For me, Vin, Kel, Saze, Dox, Marsh, Ham, and Breeze became living, breathing people who I cared about. If you come to epic fantasy for the world building then this too will not disappoint as The Final Empire is given the full treatment from its ash stained cityscapes, depressing "skaa" slums, immaculate Noblemen's keeps, to the things that creep in the misty night. It's easy to see how Brandon Sanderson has earned such a strong reputation as a story teller.
2015-05-26

7. Pure MAGIC! - This book isn’t only amazing, it even playes with your friggin’ emotions. One of the rare books that I find myself truly immersed and engaged with. it’s full of twists and turns, intrigue, and action. I wish I had a time machine so I can experience this book again. If you’re an epic fantasy fan, then you must READ THIS!
2014-09-07

8. Pretty good, not his best... - I've read a few of sandersons books- namely, the way of kings and the last few books of the wheel of time. After reading those novels, then moving to Mistborn, I was unimpressed. While the plot showed some creativity and depth, I felt the character development was lacking. I didn't feel moved by the characters, and at times felt the lack of detail left me without a clear picture of individual scenes. That said, if I'd have read this book before the way of kings or wheel of time, my expectations wouldn't have been so high. In summary, it was a quick read that was enjoyable. Sanderson is an amazing writer.
2014-03-05

9. Mistborn - Well written and entertaining. The story moves at a good pace and had a interesting and new take on the hero mythos. The author doesn't bog you down in pages of tedious descriptions that require you to skim through the pages. He stays on point and moves the story along giving you what you need to envision his world and understand it. The two main characters have depth and understandable motivations that make their actions plausible. The "Crew" I especially enjoyed. A very good ensemble of lovable rouges in the spirit of (oddly enough) "The Sting" and the "A-Team". Well done! Looking forward to the next book of the Trilogy.
2013-03-02

10. Mesmerizing and Powerful. - Mistborn is definitely a Page-Turner. While reading the book, I frequently lost track of time. It is exhilarating and well paced. It details the scenes accurately so you won't have a hard time visualizing what's happening and knowing what the author's been talking about. It is an interesting story that will surely get you hooked. The author, Brandon Sanderson, gives life to the characters. As you read, you'll start to get to know them. To care for them. To love them. He gives the characters memorable personalities so that the reader could really connect to them. You might find in some parts of the book that what they did is perfectly justifiable because that'll be exactly what you'll do if you're the character and in the given situation. Most of you will say that he can really understand what the character is going through. Their arguments, valid. Their philosophies, relatable. Mistborn is Unpredictable. One moment you're absolutely sure to yourself that this is what's going to happen and the next, it'll surprise you. You won't resist thinking what's gonna happen but I encourage you to ride along and let it surprise you, for it will. The experience of reading Mistborn is really fun. It tickles your curiosity and play with your emotions all while sucking you to it's mysterious world. Kudos Brandon Sanderson!
2012-08-13

11. Brandon Sanderson Epic Fantasy Genius - This is the first book that I ever read from Brandon Sanderson's ever growing amount of books. I've read everything he has ever written now, because of this incredible story that had me on my couch for nearly hours. All in two days. Buy this book and you will not regret it. Heck, buy ANY book released by Sanderson and you will be ever pleased.
2012-08-11

12. Breathtakingly imaginative storytelling - What an honor to read something so creative and imaginative. I could not stop feeling a sense of gratitude and satisfaction at the end of this first novel in the Mistborn trilogy. The discoveries you make, the journey of the characters' developments, purely enjoyable. Sanderson has emerged as the top dog in the fantasy game thus far. His first novel in the stormlight archive is the single best book I've ever read. To come along and read another book of his and be this satisfied by the originality, is simply foreign to most fantasy writers. He is known most by his completion of the wheel of time series. However these books, elantris, way of kings and future stormlight books, in my opinion, will completely eclipse the spotlight Jordan has achieved from his storytelling. Some people say Sanderson is almost to Jordan's level. No No No. Jordan pales in comparison. JRR tolkein is a household hand for fantasy. A few years from now, Sanderson will have achieved the same.
2012-07-19