Book review: The Cataclysm shows hope lives in dark times

Hallo. I am back, and today I am review another Dragonlance book, The Cataclysm:

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Plot:
The Cataclysm. The event when the gods of Krynn threw a fiery mountain (or meteor, if you want to get technical) upon, the world, shattering it and ending Istar forever, and ushering in The Age of Despair. Here, we are given a series of short stories depicting how the people of the world survived the aftermath, surviving in a world that has been changed. With darkness reigning not only in the corners of the world, but in the hearts of the people as well, it will take special, strong heroes to find the light in a world without gods, a world without faith, a world of despair.
Like The Reign of Istar, this book has multiple plots from containing different stories written by different authors. Some where humorous and well written, while others were touching. The highlight of this book has to be the novella depicting the rise of Lord Soth, and how in a surprising twist he shows how darkness isn't a physical manifestation but an inward choice.
Caution:
Characters in peril, with some blood and broken limbs. Uses of h-word and d-word.
Lessons:
A person's true worth isn't found in their outer appearance, their rank, or their nationality, but in their heart and soul. We should strive to have faith even when those around us choose not to. Even when it doesn't appear so, light and goodness still abound.

Book Review: Ruins of Gorlan is a fantastic series start

Good evening. For those who are still awake, I have chosen to do a review for a book I just finished: The Ruins of Gorlan, the first book of the Ranger's Apprentice series.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Story:
Will is a ward of Baron Arald, who is chosen to be an apprentice for the ranger Halt. As his training progresses, he learns not only skills for his new trade, but of the threat of a defeated baron called Morgarath, who has been amassing forces from beyond the kingdom, and now is ready to make his move. Will the rangers be able to stop him before it is too late?
I was recommended this series by a friend, and I'm glad I picked it up. It is a good book for a person starting to get into fantasy series. What helps this book stand out is the focus on what it takes for a person to be a ranger, and the training they go through. The exclusion of traditional fantasy races also helps it stand out on its own, and shows creativity on the author's side as he crafts two original races for this world of his. The story isn't drawn out, and while it's too the point, you can still get a lot is happening. Definitely a series worth the read.
Caution
A few uses of the d-word and h-word, and one person uses God's name in an exclamation of shock. Some fights break out, and blood is seen. The description of a monster might be terrifying.
Lessons:
Every one of us is given special skills that we must learn to develop. Knowledge can overcome suspicions.

Book Review: Death Weavers weaves an intricate tale of excitement and hope

Good day everyone. Today I am here with a review for the most recent book by one of my favorite authors. The book is Five Kingdoms: Death Weavers. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story: 
Cole Randolph and his friends are continuing their mission to find Mira's lost sisters and restore their powers while trying to find the kids who were sold as slaves and get them back to Earth. This time, their adventures take them to the haunting land of Necronum, where echoes of people who have died can still interact with the mortal world. Here they hope to find Mira's youngest sister, Destiny, who had the power to know of things that were going to happen. While there, they lose their way of finding out which sister is in trouble and where to look for them, and they run into trouble with high consequences. In an effort to save his friends, Cole must use the weaving powers of Necronum to travel to the mysterious Echolands, where he will face foes with the power of shapecraft and make new friends with echoes of deceased heroes. In the process, a dangerous entity known as Nazeem is threatening to escape the Echolands and return to the mortal realm of the Outskirts. Will Cole be able to fulfill his mission and save the Outskirts? Or will he and his friends be doomed? 
I am a big fan of Brandon Mull, and whatever he writes ends up being good. This book is no exception as it takes the story of the Five Kingdoms series to the next level. Mull has shown expertise in world building and here we get a new take on the concept of the afterlife that hasn't been done before. Instead of the gloom and doom prospect, readers are treated to an afterlife that offers more hope and goodness. We also get to see familiar faces from previous series return, but I won't say who because of potential spoilers. Not only are we treated to a fantastic new take on the afterlife, but we also get to learn more about the mysterious creatures known as the torivors. Given how they seem to keep popping up I am beginning to wonder if we're going to see more of them, not just in the Five Kingdoms, but in future works of Brandon Mull. 
The story itself is also a fun and wild roller coaster ride, full of twists and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Mull has also incorporated some ideas that can help with philosophical thinking, and even given us a look into the origins of the Outskirts themselves. But what I found really impressive what how he has worked with the system of shaping, essentially the force of magic in this world. Brandon Mull has a very clear idea on how it works, and the way he explains it in the novel makes it work really well. It's used in ways that tests his characters, and helps them grow into great heroes worthy of this genre. If you have not journeyed into the Five Kingdoms yet, don't hesitate. This is an adventure you do not want to miss. 
Caution:
People interact with ghosts, some of whom capture and threaten characters. A horse kills some soldiers. A battle against a demonic creature occurs. Lots of peril. 
Lessons:
Death is not the end. We should be careful of who we deal with, whether on the internet or off, because they may not be as sincere as they claim to be. A strong will and determination can throw off the powers of evil. Even if we cannot see the end or purpose of certain events, we can trust that things will work out for the better in the end. When we help others instead of ourselves, we can achieve great things.

Book Review: The Void of Mist and Thunder is a Shocking Series End

Hallo. Do not be alarmed. We come in peace.

Now that the moment of randomness is out of the way, it's time to get down to business. I'm back with a new book review. The Thirteenth Reality: The Void of Mist and Thunder.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Story:
Reality itself is on the brink of collapse. Not only is each reality branch out of control, the Realitants are trying to find a way to rescue Tick from the Nonex. To make matters worse, the fourth dimension has been breached, and a deadly force known as the Void of Mist and Thunder is entering all the realities, and if not stopped, it will consume all of them. Will they find a way to rescue Tick and save all the realities? Or will all be consumed by the Void of Mist and Thunder?
James Dashner brings science to the idea of parallel realities like no one has managed to do it before. And instead of making it boring, he manages to make it one exciting roller coaster ride. Not only will you find yourself on the edge of your seat, you'll be wanting more. This science fiction series is not to be missed.
Caution:
People in peril. Monsters are consumed and mutated even further. A woman is described as being merged with shrapnel. Battles are fought and people die.
Lessons:
Sometimes our enemies can become our greatest allies. A common enemy unites even the oldest of foes. If you do good, you will be rewarded in time. Even when things seem hopeless, we can believe that everything will work out in the end.

Book Review: Strange Stories, Peculiar Lessons is a new collection of fairy tales

Time for my second review of the day. This one is for a collection of short stories done by Stephen Groll, and it's Strange Stories, Peculiar Lessons.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
This book is actually a collection of short stories which feature kids learning life lessons through a series of strange adventures, or misadventures. Some of those stories involve the characters from his novel Beyond the Dead Forest, continuing their adventures. Several of these stories he's shared in the past, but there are some new tales in the mix as well, such as a Christmas adventure for Carter and Kat. It was good to read each of these tales, and Stephen Groll has shown quite the imagination in crafting all these unique places each character travels to, and comes up with a lot of monsters found nowhere else in fiction. These tales are reminiscent of the Tales of The Brothers Grimm, while combining with the morality of the Tales of Hans Christian Anderson. And just like both collections, these tales can be dark and scary as each character faces the problems they go through. But there is still hope, as there is always hope, in living our lives to help others instead of ourselves.
Caution:
Children in peril. An implied death. Some monsters may be scary sensitive readers.
Lessons:
We find more happiness and joy in living for others instead of ourselves. Bad things sometimes happen to good people. We can learn from our challenges and become better people.

Book Review: A Feast for Crows continues the aftermath

Hi again. Got a book read and ready to review. Today's selections is A Feast for Crows.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
Continuing where A Storm of Swords left off, Westeros is in disarray. Tywin Lannister has been murdered by his son Tyrion, and Cersei is determined to have the head of her brother. Brienne is determined to find the lost Stark girls and bring them to safety to keep the oaths she made with Catelyn Stark and Jaime Lannister. Even though sister and brother have been reunited, Cersei and Jaime grow further and further apart as they see that both of them have changed, and in ways they do not like. As her brother continues to act more like the knight he was supposed to be, Cersei continues to maneuver the politics of the seven kingdoms, using her son Tommen as a puppet king while she tries to put in power people she can control. Meanwhile, Arya arrives in Braavos and starts adopting a new lifestyle while Samwell Tarly travels to Oldtown to learn to be a maester for the Night's Watch. All around, the people struggle to rebuild life after the war of the Five Kings has all but ended. However, events are in motion that cannot be stopped. The Ironborn are moving to conquer the entire land, outlaws continue to plague the people, and ancient customs that were long banned are being brought back. One thing can be certain: all this will mean a feast for crows.
This book, to be honest, was not as well liked as the others were. That does not mean it's not important for the series. It shows the aftermath of a war that was won by the side no one wanted to win, and how the people suffer for it. George R. R. Martin has done a great job showing people desperate for order among all the chaos the war has brought on, from becoming outlaws to turning to religion for comfort. It was interesting to read from Cersei's viewpoint, even though she's one of my least favorite characters, because we get to see her reasoning for doing what she does, and it becomes clear who she truly cares about. Not to mention we learn things about her past that could set in motion the future. It was tedious to read a lot of the chapters because a lot of them felt like filler, but that's life for you. Gotta go through things that don't feel important at the moment, but will undoubtedly be so in the future. It's clear that Martin is setting the stage for something big, and all we can do is wait for the storm to hit.
Caution:
Large amounts of swearing, including use of the F-word. People have sex and discuss it with each other. Blood and gore abound.
Lessons:
The more we try to cover up our sins, the more they come back to haunt us. Nothing stays hidden forever. We must watch what we do and say, for there is a chance that they will be used against us.

Movie Review: BFG deserves more love

Hi everyone. Wow. It's been a while since I posted anything. Well, I do have a movie review for all of you today, and it's based off my favorite book written by Roald Dahl, The BFG.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Sophie is an orphan girl living in London who generally spends her time reading and staying up way after she's supposed to be asleep. Because she's up at the Witching Hour, she ends up breaking some rules of what not to do at the time, and ends up seeing something unexpected: a giant. Before she knows it, Sophie is whisked off to Giant Country, and ends up becoming friends with the giant who took her, whom she names the BFG, which stands for Big Friendly Giant. However, he's not the only giant there. There are several larger giants who enjoy nothing more than eating people, especially children. Together, Sophie and the BFG come up with a plan to stop the evil giants and save the world.
I was really surprised with how faithful the film adaptation was to the book, and that made me glad. True, there were a few minor points that were changed up, but it wasn't drastic, and overall the film kept the heart and spirit of the book it came from. The use of CGI really helps drive home the magical feeling of Giant Country, and the friendship felt between Sophie and the BFG is truly cute. It has a good balance between light moments and dark moments, and each one was taken care of. It is definitely a fun family film.
Caution:
A girl has a nightmare of being eaten by a giant. A giant gets hit in the groin. Some mild peril and slapstick humor. Some people drink a beverage that causes them to fart.
Lessons:
Kindness and understanding can overcome boundaries. Just because someone's different from us in appearance or behavior doesn't make them bad or deserving of mockery; it means that they are still people and deserve our love and respect. Never be afraid to stand up for what is right.

Book Review: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is a delightful read

This review is for a book I read some time ago. It also takes place in Westeros, but it follows different characters. That story is A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
This book is actually three books merged into one. Taking place a century before the events of A Song of Ice and Fire, the story follows Ser Duncan, a man who was recently knighted before his master passed away. While traveling to a tourney, he meets a bald boy named Egg who, despite Duncan's efforts to have it otherwise, becomes his squire. Duncan learns some surprising things while at the tourney, but ends up making a name for himself in front of the Targaryans, who are the family of kings and queens in Westeros. Afterwards, he and Egg have several adventures, including trying to help a disgraced lord save his lands and his smallfolk (peasants) from a drought while a rival house is taking all the resources, and participating in a tourney while looking for a performer that is hinted that Duncan might have feelings for. Underneath it all is the threat of the embers of a rebellion that had been beaten years ago, but is struggling to rise to power again. Will Duncan and Egg be able to help the Seven Kingdoms?
I was pleased to see another story that takes place in Westeros, and isn't part of the main series. It helps add to the world's history, and allows us to see characters we read about in The World of Ice and Fire to get some attention. While not as intense as the series A Song of Ice and Fire, it still has that flare of Martin's to explore real people facing real medieval problems. The illustrations done by Gary Gianni also help bring this world and time period to life. It's definitely worth reading.
Caution:
Some swearing, including some uses of the F-word. Some violence and gore. Some people are seen naked in some of the illustrations (though one is the result of a dream and another is part of a marriage ceremony in Westeros).
Lessons:
Honor and nobility are found in the heart. You can find good people in unexpected places. The Devil will try to strike us when we are not expecting it.

Book review: A Storm of Swords is a must-read

Hello everyone. I'm back after a long absence. I've got some books to review with all of you. The first one today is A Storm of Swords.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
War continues to rage across the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. Tyron Lannister has managed to repel the forces of Stannis Baratheon, and is left with nothing after his father and nephew take all the credit. Robb Stark continues to work to avenge his father, but his actions are causing problems in the ranks of his own men. Meanwhile, beyond the Wall, Jon Snow is trying to learn the plans of Mance Rayder, the King-Beyond-The-Wall, while he ends up getting too close to the wildling Ygritte. Arya Stark is still trying to get back to her mother and brother, but ends up having to deal with outlaws and bandits who have their own plans for her. Meanwhile, across the sea, Daenerys Targaryan is building an army of slaves and sellswords to sail to Westeros to take back the Iron Throne. In amongst all this conflict there is betrayal, conspiracies, schemes, and assassinations around every corner. Every man is looking out for himself while all around them the Storm of Swords rages on.
This book took me over a month to read, but it was worth every second. George R. R. Martin is a modern-day master of fantasy, stepping on the foundation that both J. R. R. Tolkien and history itself has laid, and combined the two of them to create one of the most realistic worlds in the realm of fantasy. In Westeros things are not black and white. There is a lot of grey in there, and you can see that in the people and the reasons they give for doing what they do. Characters you care about are not safe from the ravages of war and evil, and we see that even good people do bad things. His descriptions are very detailed and he really explores the psychological processes in each of his characters. So pick up a copy and be sure to join the adventure.
Caution:
Heavily language, including multiple use of the F-word. There is explicit sex and nudity, and often you'll have to skip entire pages before you can continue again. There is a lot of gore and violence, which would probably shock your parents if they could see the images your imagination projects with this book. Some terrifying moments.
Lessons:
As soon as men get a little power, they will exercise unrighteous dominion. Be careful of who you trust. Doing what is right sometimes means telling others no, and getting scorned for it.

Book review: Arthur and the Vale of Shadows is an unexpected tale

Time for another review. This is one that I did not expect to exist, but here it is. Arthur and the Vale of Shadows:

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
During the days of Camelot King Arthur and Lancelot were patrolling their kingdom when they came across a place they did not know about. There they found men who had been killed outside of a castle that hadn't been there before. Together Arthur and Lancelot must brave the dangers that lurk within the castle, including the infamous Dracula.
The story itself is short, but the feelings of dread inside the castle are intense. You can feel the fear as if you were walking around the castle with Arthur and Lancelot. I know that technically Dracula was supposed to have come hundreds of years after Arthur, but it's still interesting to see the two in the same time and place. I would've like a bit of a longer story, but Thomas Adams did a great job with the overall plot. Dracula's origin is changed a bit, but the same darkness still resides. This would be a great book for a quick read on a dark night.
Caution:
Dead men are seen impaled. Some jump scares and a frightening villain.
Lessons:
Pray to God for strength to overcome evil.

Book review: Flying Girl and Iron Merchant is a deep fantasy

Hi everyone,
I know it's been a while, but I've got a book review to do today. This review is for the book Flying Girl and Iron Merchant.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Lu-Mao is a girl living with her family until one day they're taken from her by powerful men. Enraged, Lu-Mao develops the opinion that all aristocrats are evil and dedicates her life to fighting them. While living as a bandit she comes into the possession of a feather that grants her the ability to fly. With her new power she sets out to rescue her family and punish those of high estate. Along the way, Lu-Mao is given a message to seek the one called the Iron Merchant. Captain Liang is a well-to-do merchant who has earned the enmity of several pirates. When their paths cross the two have to work together to stop a coup that could destroy an entire nation.
It was very interesting to read a story that takes place in China. I haven't come across a lot of books like that, but it appears that Joseph R. Ravitts has done great research in recreating the ancient culture of the Middle Kingdom. Not only does he discuss honor in his novel, but he manages to cover and describe the various kung fu moves that some of the characters practice. It's like the reader is there, experiencing the rich culture of China. In addition there are some great morals that the characters have to learn, such as forgiveness and not judging others. Lu-Mao in some ways acts like Robin Hood in stealing from the rich, but Ravitts also shows that such a philosophy isn't always good, and by taking revenge like that people were indirectly hurt by the actions. If you want a fun story with magic powers or to experience an adventure in the orient then be sure to read this book.
Caution:
Characters are in peril. Lives are threatened. A woman is shot in the leg. A man falls to his death.
Lessons:
Save judgement for the Lord. If we want to experience true peace we must forgive those who have wronged us. Pride will be the undoing of men. Do not harden your heart; allow people in.

Book review: A Clash of Kings intensifies the series

Well it's time to do another review. This week I've finally finished reading the second book of A Song of Ice and Fire, A Clash of Kings.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
Westeros is being plunged into a civil war. Not only are the Lannister forces fighting against the armies of the North, but the people of King's Landing are starving and people across the Riverlands are being attacked. To make matters worse their are some men who are not interested in taking any side but their own. Stannous and Renly Baratheon, brothers of the late King Robert Baratheon, have declared themselves king and are waging war against each other. Whoever wins will go on to attack King's Landing. King Robb Stark of the North sends Theon Greyjoy back to the Iron Islands to enlist the help of his father, but only unleashes another power hungry man upon Westeros. Sansa, Arya, and Tyrion are caught up in the various aspects of the war while Jon and Daenerys are experiencing forces at work elsewhere in the world. Loyalties will be tested, friends and foes will rise, and no one will escape the clash of kings unscathed.
George R. R. Martin captures complex politics at work in the world of Westeros. It's hard for any writer to capture the workings of a world in the way Martin has. You can feel the pain and sorrow of many who want to help people, but can't for one reason or another. The human element is also strong here. Most authors tend to have different sides put aside petty differences to work together, but that does not work here. Many people are too set in their pride to listen to reason and as a result many suffer. I also love the amount of world building Martin has done in creating the city of Quarth and the history and lore in the wilds north of the Wall.
However this book does take an incredibly darker turn. He shows that there are darker powers at work in the world, some of them working behind the self-proclaimed kings in their struggle for the Iron Throne. Men and women alike also discuss things that are incredible inappropriate, mainly body parts that shouldn't be discussed except with their spouses. Still if you enjoyed the first book go ahead and pick it up. Just remember: read at your own risk.
Caution:
The F word appears at least twenty times. Several scenes are sexually explicit and graphic. A man is poisoned. Battles break out and there is blood and gore. A woman goes to see some warlocks and passes through a house of horrors, where corpses try to eat her. Some swearing.
Lessons:
When an unrighteous king comes to power it's the people who end up suffering. A tyrant will enforce his rule upon the people and force them to accept their way. Sometimes what we want isn't what is best for us. We all have gifts that we can use to help others. If we do not control our ambition, we can become something terrible.

Book Review: The Great Battle lives up to its name

Hi everyone. Well, I know that you know what time it is now. It's time for me to review a new book. The lucky winner today is book one of the Guardians of Allon series, The Great Battle.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Allon is a country unlike any you've seen before. The people are capable of getting direct help from Jor'el, the god of the world. To help maintain peace Jor'el has created a race of super people known as the Guardians. Each guardian has their own special skills and use them to help mortals. However nowadays there are some guardians that are causing trouble, like a mysterious rogue who beats people. An investigation begins to uncover a dangerous plan that could change the course of Allon's history forever.
I was incredibly impressed with this story. Shawn Lamb has created an amazing world that definitely stands out on its own. It has a presence of the Divine like in Narnia, but the action of Middle-Earth. Most fantasy stories start out with the world in an age of darkness and tyranny, but the author here has come up with a well-written story that shows the world in a golden age before the fall from grace. There are mystical creatures, but they are not what you expect. One example of something fantasy fans are familiar with would be the kelpie, but it is more of a monster than the water horse we know. Shawn Lamb has also created some dangerous new monsters that most heroes would rather not face in battle. Different perspectives and characters help set things up for the future of Allon and help to move the story along. This is a must-have for anyone who loves fantasy or the Chronicles of Narnia.
Caution:
Some battles can be terrifying and intense. Characters are chased by monsters and injured. People are tortured by the villains. Cases of blood from battles. Many characters die. A man passes through fire to test his virtue.
Lessons:
Sometimes people are allowed to do bad things so the judgement will be just. Even when it seems like evil has won, God will prevail in the end. Sometimes doing the right thing means going against those around you.

Book Review: Immortal Guardians really catches you off guard

Hallo. It's time for another book review. Today I finished ready the first book of Fall of the Beasts, the next Spirit Animals series, Immortal Guardians.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Plot:
It's been several months since the events of The Evertree, and Erdas is rebuilding from the war with the Conquerors. However people have been calling the Great Beasts as Spirit Animals, much like Conor, Abeke, Rollan, and Meilin have called Briggan, Uraza, Jhi, and Essix. When you think everything will be fine and dandy, trouble rears its ugly head again. Zerif is back, and he has gained a power that allows him to rip the Great Beasts away from the people they've bonded with. What's more, the new Evertree is sick, and mysterious parasites are appearing that are causing trouble. Conor, Abeke, Meilin, and Rollan must return to the role of saving Erdas as they split up to investigate the source of what is poisoning the Evertree and find the remaining Great Beasts and their partners before Zerif can claim them for himself. The stakes are higher than before, for if they fail Erdas as we know it will fall.
I was surprised to find out that Spirit Animals would continue because I thought once the Conquerors were stopped that would be the end of the story. I was delighted to be proven wrong. I was surprised with how quickly things were escalating in this book, and more than once was given my share of surprises and shocks. I truly felt concerned for the safety of the characters, and the tragic turn of events was saddening. Eliot Schrefer knows his craft as he creates a delightful story that takes elements of interior-world novels and Norse mythology, and combines them in an incredible adventure that raises the level of entertainment and excitement from the last novels. If you haven't read these books yet I would highly recommend you do, especially if you love exploring the realms of fantasy.
Caution:
A parasite takes possession of people and turns them into ghouls. A man stealing animals from their partners might be too intense for some readers. Characters are in peril, and there is some action against the ghouls. Animals fight each other and are injured. Blood is mentioned.
Lessons:
A common cause can unite old enemies. We must try to remember the past, and if we don't learn from it we could hurt our future. Be proud of who you are. Selfishness and greed can ruin goodness. There is more to our world than what we know, and we should be willing to seek it out.

Book Review: Galthain's Bones is a fun journey of growth

Hi everyone. I finally got done with a book I said I'd read. Now it's time to give a review. This takes us beyond the land of Astarkand in the story Galthain's Bones.

Rating: Five out of Five stars
Story:
Long before he came to Astarkand Bjorn was living with his family in Hevla. However one day the Seeress comes and tells him that he must retrieve the bones of his ancestor Eiathan from the city of Deathwater, located in the desert, and bring them to Hevla so they can be properly buried. With a company of six men Bjorn will travel through a scorching and unforgiving desert, where danger follows them and water is hard to come by. What's more, how will they get the remains of Eiathan out of the desert, and is someone in the company hiding a secret? 
There is a bonus story included as well. This story accounts the life of Bjorn Horsa at home in Hevla. We get to see another side to Bjorn as he lives with his family, close and extended. The bonus story serves for good humor and helps to show the culture of the Horsa people. While living in Hevla Bjorn gets into all kind of mischief while he seeks to have fun with his brothers and cousins. But will there be a price to pay for his humor?
I'm glad that we got to see a little more of the world apart from Astarkand. This book helps to build the world Krystine Kercher has created in Legends of Astarkand, and takes us beyond the borders of the kingdom we have become acquainted with. Like how the Horsa are Christian, the people of the desert appear to be Muslim as they worship Allah. However the danger comes from the bandits and the mysterious Emir. The journey sometimes feels long, but it is a world. Of course traveling across it would be a long process. Magic doesn't really appear until halfway through the story, but it serves as a tool that helps the characters. Overall this is a fun fantasy story that should be read. 
Caution:
A character mentions the word rape, but it isn't seen. Bandits chase men across the desert. Some fighting, but not gory. 
Lessons:
We should remember our ancestors and do what we can to honor them. The Lord will provide a way for us to obey his will. It is good to befriend those who are not of our faith. Good people are found everywhere.

Book Review: A Game of Thrones puts the Epic in Epic Fantasy

Hi everyone. I’ve been reading a book that has been entertaining, but long. Now it is finished. That book is the story A Game of Thrones

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Story:

Enter the world of Westeros, a land with a heavy medieval culture and seven kingdoms are ruled by a monarch who sits on the Iron Throne. After years of not seeing each other Lord Eddard “Ned” Stark is visited by his old friend Robert Baratheon, the King of Westeros, and is made the new Hand of the King. Reluctantly Ned follows Robert to King’s Landing with his daughters Arya and Sansa. On the way Ned starts to uncover facts that led to the death of the past Hand, Jon Arryn. As he searches for answers he uncovers a secret that could plunge all Westeros into chaos and war.

Online friends have told me that George R. R. Martin is the new king of fantasy, and it’s easy to see why with A Game of Thrones. Significantly more toned down than the HBO series the book focuses more on the politics of the world than on magic and monsters. Martin is an imaginative writer who brings you into the wondrous, and oft times, violent world of Westeros. Westeros is not a place where gallant princes and fair maidens dance with each other at the ball until midnight, or legions of orcs are trying to wipe out the kingdoms of men. The real threat comes from within, from the people themselves. The characters are well rounded, there is some serious development for many characters and you don’t have to worry about the pages being filled with clichés. In other words, no elves, no centaurs, no guiding wizard companion and counsellor. Magic is in Westeros, but it's very subtle to the point where if you blink you'll miss it. Martin steps away from many of the stereotypes of fantasy and makes Westeros seem like a place that could exist in reality. A gritty yet engrossing tale of the food and fashion of the dark ages. Also has magic and dragons and sex (sadly) and stuff. If you want a serious upgrade in fantasy worldbuilding you should pick up this book. The multiple characters the story follows helps to show the epicness of this world and once you start reading you won’t want to put this book down.
Martin does an incredible job of developing his characters. Cersei is so evil she makes the Evil Queen seem as gentle as a lamb. Sansa starts out as a silly love-struck girl lost in ideas of what stories paint the world to be, but as the book progresses she gets a serious wake up call that the world is often cold and cruel, and doing the right thing can get you killed. The Dothraki people that Daenerys Targaryan ends up with are seen as animals by many people, but as she spends time with them she sees a human side to them. Martin has said that when it comes to doing his female characters he thinks of them as people, and his writing proves it. The characters feel fleshed out and real with shortcomings and faults that many people have. More impressive is the immense political system Martin has created for Westeros. Most people in fantasy just have the king do everything when it comes to politics. In Westeros the king has a council that helps him govern and rule the land. Each man has a certain job  that they do when it comes to ruling the land. One's in charge of the treasury, the other rumors that abound in the land, etc. This suggests the king doesn't hold absolute power in this world. It makes a nice and well needed change from the stereotypes that have engulfed modern fantasy.  

Caution:

People swear, a couple of times f-bomb someone. Jaime and Cersei Lannister have incestuous sex with each other. Daenerys Targaryan's wedding night has too much detail. Characters are raped. Tyrion mentions sleeping with whores, and one instance has too much detail. Privates are mentioned. Sometimes it takes paragraphs, but other times you have to skip pages to avoid it. Not a book for younger readers. Battles break out and people die, sometimes in a gory way, more so than in The Lord of the Rings or The Inheritance Cycle. If this book were adapted into a movie the content could go beyond a PG-13 rating into NC 17. 

Lessons:

Sometimes we are our own worst enemy. Sometimes doing the right thing means going against the popular opinion. Family can be a source of strength and comfort. Our choices define who we are.

Book Review: The Long Patrol is an exciting adventure tale of Redwall

Hi everyone. School's out for me right now, so I might be able to do a little more with this blog than book reviews. In the meantime I do have a new book to review, and it comes from Brian Jacques wonderful world surrounding the amazing abbey of Redwall. This book is The Long Patrol.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Tamello De Fformelo Tussock is a young hare who dreams of joining the Long Patrol, a group of hares that serves Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, the badger who rules the stronghold of Salamandastron. Even though both of Tammo's parents have served in the Long Patrol it takes Tammo's mother to convince an old friend, a squirrel named Russa, to get Tammo started on his journey. However the journey isn't a smooth one. An army of sea vermin known as the Rapscallions has come ashore following their defeat at the hands, or paws, of Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, and their former leader has died. His heir, through treachery and deceit, is Damug Warfang, a rat who is eager to carve a name for himself. Leading his army inwards, he learns that the peaceful Redwall Abbey has a problem. The south wall is crumbling, and needs to be rebuilt. The race is on as Damug makes his way towards the peaceful abbey. Will Tammo and the Long Patrol be able to help save Redwall? Or will the abbey fall into the clutches of the Rapscallions?
Brian Jacques always does an incredible job with storytelling and world building. I like how he manages to replace the traditional fantasy races with woodland creatures like mice, squirrels, moles, badgers, etc. He also knows how to make use of poem, rhyme, and song to help further build up the world around Redwall. The book may start out slow for some, but it gets easier to read the further you go along. It may be hard to understand the style of speech several animals have, but that helps add to the world of Redwall. If you want to take a break from elves, dwarves, and other traditional fantasy races then you should take a trip to Redwall Abbey.
Caution:
Characters are in peril and threatened with death. An eel almost eats someone. Some characters end up trapped in a dark place and encounter blind cannibals. Damug Warfang's helmet has a skull on it. A badger is mentioned as having Bloodwrath. Animals fight and kill each other
Lessons:
Fighting is justified if you are trying to protect your family and loved ones from those who would harm them and take away their freedom. The greatest act of love is to give your life from another. We can find ourselves prepared for the future if we study the past.

Oh, just a little note, this week I'm going to be reading and reviewing a book for a friend before it becomes available online. I intend to read and review it before the week is out, so be sure to check back again this week.

Book Review: Spirit Animals: Evertree is awesome

Hi everyone. I've got a lot of stuff I need to do, but I think it's time I gave you another book review. Hopefully this summer I'll be able to branch out a little.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Story:
The Greencloaks are in trouble. The Conquerors have gotten their hands on all but three of the talismans, and only two are in their possession. The last talisman is the Platinum Elk, which belongs to Tellun the elk, the greatest and most powerful of all the Great Beasts. However with Kovo the ape about to break free of his prison there's no time to go and seek the aid of Tellun. Conor, Abeke, Rollan, and the Greencloaks will have to travel to the Conqueror's homeland of Stetriol to try and stop Gerathon and Kovo. However terrible things are happening across Erdas. Continents are changing, the weather's going berserk, and the animals are getting sick. Is there a way to reverse this chaos? Or will Erdas be plunged into an era of darkness?
I liked so much in the book. I liked how the actions of the Conquerors and Kovo and Gerathon are literally tearing Erdas apart. It really shows how serious the situation is. When Tellun made an appearance it's easy to see why he's the greatest of all the Great Beasts. I won't say what, but he does some pretty awesome stuff. Definitely not your average elk. I also liked how more Erdas mythology and history is brought into this book. However due to the fast pace of the book I was left feeling like they could've done more. While the battles were epic in their own right I was just left wanting a bit more. I'm not talking graphic or gory kind of violence. When I think about it I can see the point was to try and get through, not to fight bad guys except when absolutely necessary.
Caution:
A snake keeps taking control of people. Animals fight each other. The chaos the world is being thrown into might be intense for some.
Lessons:
The greatest act of love is to give our life for another. When the lives of our loved ones and our freedoms are threatened it's okay to fight to protect them. This is for people who are of a Christian background: The Atonement of Jesus Christ has the power to free us from the power of the Devil.

Book review: The Ice Dragon is a fun fantasy for winter

Hi everyone. School's starting to wrap up and I'm getting some great help to get caught up on assignments. I wanted to take some time today to do something I wasn't able to yesterday. Post a review for a book I finished reading.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Adara is a girl who's living in the North, a country in Westeros, with her father and siblings. Adara's noted for being a bit of an odd girl, such as she loves the winters. She would spend the time counting down to her birthday as that's during wintertime. Most do not enjoy the winters in the North, but Adara loves it. Each year Adara is visited by an ice dragon, a rare species of dragon that few ever see, and tales say it is a foul creature of death. However Adara manages to befriend the strange animal and flies around on it. That itself is a great accomplishment as ice dragons are held to be unridable. One day fierce invaders come to Adara's home and it's up to her and her ice dragon to stop them.
For a while now I've been encouraged to delve into George R. R. Martin's world of Westeros, and I was surprised to see there are books written by him that take place outside of his main series. Even though this book may be shorter and more geared to juvenile readers, I still found it a good place to enter Westeros. Most dragons are stereotyped to be fire breathers, but it made a nice change to see a dragon that could breath cold instead. Adara herself is a very interesting character. Winters can be fierce from what I read in the North, but the cold never bothers her. Sorry. Couldn't resist putting that joke in. I have read The World of Ice and Fire, and I spent some time wondering when this tale fits in chronologically with the history of Westeros. For reasons that I won't divulge so to not give any spoilers I'll say I think it happens in The Dance of the Dragons, which was the name of an old war. Anyway, I can see this book forming the basis of an animated film adaptation someday. Probably won't happen, but if you're looking for a fantasy book to read during the winter I would recommend this book.
Caution:
A woman dies from childbirth. Men are mentioned as swearing, but the words are not listed. Some battle scenes, but nothing graphic. A kid accidentally snaps an ice lizard in two.
Lessons:
The greatest form of love is to give your life for another. We should be willing to get out and explore.

Book Review: Five Kingdoms: Crystal Keepers is an amazing blend of fantasy and science fiction

Hi everyone. My prioritizing is still not good. For now I wanted to get this book review up for you. It's for Brandon Mull's new book: Five Kingdoms: Crystal Keepers.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Story:
Cole and his friends are still on the run in the Outskirts. This time, they are traveling to the kingdom of Zeropolis, the most advanced kingdom in this world. This kingdom matches the idea of most futuristic cities, and the magic system of shaping in this kingdom is called tinkering. This skill allows them to use crystals to accomplish their means. However this high-tech place is not a walk in the park. The Grand Shaper in this kingdom is seeking absolute control, and he is on the verge of crushing all resistance. To find Mira's sister Constance Cole will have to travel beyond Zeropolis, make unlikely alliances, and face the wrath of dangerous technology. All the while, the mystery of shapecrafting begins to be unraveled. But will they be able to face all the dangers and save the Outskirts? Or will Cole and his friends be unable to return home ever?
I really enjoyed the way Brandon Mull used magic to power high levels of technology in this book. It really breaks several cliches in the realm of fantasy. He also continues to pull unexpected twists and turns, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Some events happened in this book that I was not expecting until the last book, but I won't say what. His world building skills are really going in new directions in this series. Mull has created fun new games played only in Zeropolis, and unlike most kingdoms there is a way to find out what's going on in our world in Zeropolis. If you want a change from wizards, trolls, and knights, pick up this book.
Caution:
Children are in peril. Men try to capture the characters several times. A person is mentioned as having lost their leg a while ago. Someone is abducted. Some of the action scenes may prove too intense for younger readers. The appearance of a demonic creature might scare some people. A robotic dragon rampages across the city.
Lessons:
When we act out of selfishness we hurt others as well as ourselves. Technology can be used for good purposes as well as bad. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the past will repeat itself.