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The Lynburn Legacy #2
Untold
It's time to choose sides....
On the surface, Sorry-in-the-Vale is a sleepy English town. But Kami Glass knows the truth. Sorry-in-the-Vale is full of magic. In the old days, the Lynburn family ruled with fear, terrifying the people into submission in order to kill for blood and power. Now the Lynburns are back, and Rob Lynburn is gathering sorcerers so that the town can return to the old ways.
But Rob and his followers aren’t the only sorcerers in town. A decision must be made: pay the blood sacrifice, or fight. For Kami, this means more than just choosing between good and evil. With her link to Jared Lynburn severed, she’s now free to love anyone she chooses. But who should that be?
A darkly humorous take on Gothic romance, Sarah Rees Brennan's Lynburn Legacy weaves together the tale of a heroine desperate to protect those she loves, two boys hoping to be saved, and the magical forces that will shape their destiny.
On the surface, Sorry-in-the-Vale is a sleepy English town. But Kami Glass knows the truth. Sorry-in-the-Vale is full of magic. In the old days, the Lynburn family ruled with fear, terrifying the people into submission in order to kill for blood and power. Now the Lynburns are back, and Rob Lynburn is gathering sorcerers so that the town can return to the old ways.
But Rob and his followers aren’t the only sorcerers in town. A decision must be made: pay the blood sacrifice, or fight. For Kami, this means more than just choosing between good and evil. With her link to Jared Lynburn severed, she’s now free to love anyone she chooses. But who should that be?
A darkly humorous take on Gothic romance, Sarah Rees Brennan's Lynburn Legacy weaves together the tale of a heroine desperate to protect those she loves, two boys hoping to be saved, and the magical forces that will shape their destiny.
336 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2013
About the author
Sarah Rees Brennan
71 books5,183 followersSarah Rees Brennan is Irish and currently lives in Dublin. She's been writing YA books for more than ten years, which is terrifying to contemplate! She hopes you (yes you!) find at least one of them to be the kind of book you remember.
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Want to read
April 12, 2013Edit: 10/25/2012
Dear Ms. Brennan,
I have just read the UNTOLD excerpt...
and
WHEN I SAID I WANTED A MAKE-OUT SCENE, THIS WAS NOT WHAT I MEANT!!!
my heart was not ready for this level of trauma...
edit: October 23, 2012
"In Mexico on writing retreat, I spent a solid ten hours writing a make-out scene in Untold."
-SRB on her tumblr
BETWEEN WHO?!?!?!?! I MUST KNOW!
Edit: September 13, 2012
"I would like to make it clear: I make no promises about them as A Romantic Pairing. Maybe they are in love, maybe one of them is in love, maybe they will fall in love with other people."
-Sarah Rees Brennan on Kami and Jared
....
Dear Ms. Brennan,
I have just read the UNTOLD excerpt...
and
WHEN I SAID I WANTED A MAKE-OUT SCENE, THIS WAS NOT WHAT I MEANT!!!
my heart was not ready for this level of trauma...
edit: October 23, 2012
"In Mexico on writing retreat, I spent a solid ten hours writing a make-out scene in Untold."
-SRB on her tumblr
Edit: September 13, 2012
"I would like to make it clear: I make no promises about them as A Romantic Pairing. Maybe they are in love, maybe one of them is in love, maybe they will fall in love with other people."
-Sarah Rees Brennan on Kami and Jared
....
September 8, 2013
In retrospect, Untold is an extraordinarily boring novel. Unspoken was a novel I loved inexplicably; just because it was whimsical and amusing and magical and I could. With Untold, however, my feelings are far more mixed. On one hand, this novel delivered exactly what I wanted it to, but on another, I found myself left with an intangible wanting.
What Brennan has always excelled at - ever since the release of her debut - is capturing the personality behind the shells her characters wear. Kami, especially, truly blooms in this installment. Without her link to Jared, she is suddenly forced to face her deepest fears and secret hopes - alone. Moreover, her once-perfect family suddenly cracks under the pressure of magic as truths come spilling out. For me, the highlight of this novel lies in seeing Kami come to believe in herself, all while retaining her characteristic flair. I also really loved her interactions with her parents. Kami, as a half-Japanese character, is treated as such and the background on her parents, not to mention the close ties between her siblings, is written so deftly, weaving this family both together and apart.
Untold would be nothing, though, without its secondary characters. Brennan truly delves into the mindset of Kami's friends, making their lives and troubles just as real for us as Kami's. Yet, where this concept falters is in its execution. While I've come away from Untold truly understanding the layers behind characters such as Angela, Holly, or Ash, beyond adding more depth to the story, their perspectives did little. Ultimately, the relationships between these secondary characters has progressed very little. I surmise that - hopefully - we'll see them play a much greater role in Unbroken and all the backstory Brennan has written will finally come into play, but with this installment, it's rather useless.
I find that the issue with Untold lies there. Its plot is so very loose and flimsy. It's meant to be centered around Kami learning to fight back against the sorcerers, but it's composed of conversation, drama, and tension. It's certainly enjoyable, but it lacks a certain tightness to its motivations that its predecessor possessed. Moreover, I desperately longed for more; more about the magic of the Lynburns, more about Rob than just a facade of black-and-white evil, more of the classic atmosphere that Sorry-in-the-Vale possessed in Unspoken. Just...more.
(Just Jared!) You didn't think I'd end this review without mentioning Jared or Rusty, did you? ;) Rusty, as always, is a delight with his laugh-out-loud dialogue and hidden depths - which still remain hidden. Jared, however, becomes ever more real as the novel progresses. I love the few glimpses we're given into his mind - heart-breaking, but necessary - and am really impressed by the moral ambiguity associated with this character. His affection for Kami is no secret, but neither is his desire for the link, which puts him in an ironic situation. Furthermore, Brennan brings up another level of interest as she forces us to question whether Jared would be Jared without Kami in his head. It's interesting, merely because Jared is so very fixated upon Kami and does contain his own dark patches. He really does steal the show whenever he turns up on the page, though, and I really love that both he and Kami retain their own auras, despite their tight bond.
Ultimately, I can't say that Untold shows much plot progression, but it's entertaining nevertheless. I both love and hate that there's such a strong focus on character development in this novel, only because much of it failed to have much direction, but Brennan manages to keep us riveted with her every word and it's physically painful to leave behind these characters as we leave our hearts behind too. Untold isn't one of Brennan's best works, but it'll keep you coming back for more. (What? You thought Brennan wouldn't write another cliffhanger? You naive reader...you're in for a shock with these last few pages. And we thought Unspoken was bad... *shakes head*)
What Brennan has always excelled at - ever since the release of her debut - is capturing the personality behind the shells her characters wear. Kami, especially, truly blooms in this installment. Without her link to Jared, she is suddenly forced to face her deepest fears and secret hopes - alone. Moreover, her once-perfect family suddenly cracks under the pressure of magic as truths come spilling out. For me, the highlight of this novel lies in seeing Kami come to believe in herself, all while retaining her characteristic flair. I also really loved her interactions with her parents. Kami, as a half-Japanese character, is treated as such and the background on her parents, not to mention the close ties between her siblings, is written so deftly, weaving this family both together and apart.
Untold would be nothing, though, without its secondary characters. Brennan truly delves into the mindset of Kami's friends, making their lives and troubles just as real for us as Kami's. Yet, where this concept falters is in its execution. While I've come away from Untold truly understanding the layers behind characters such as Angela, Holly, or Ash, beyond adding more depth to the story, their perspectives did little. Ultimately, the relationships between these secondary characters has progressed very little. I surmise that - hopefully - we'll see them play a much greater role in Unbroken and all the backstory Brennan has written will finally come into play, but with this installment, it's rather useless.
I find that the issue with Untold lies there. Its plot is so very loose and flimsy. It's meant to be centered around Kami learning to fight back against the sorcerers, but it's composed of conversation, drama, and tension. It's certainly enjoyable, but it lacks a certain tightness to its motivations that its predecessor possessed. Moreover, I desperately longed for more; more about the magic of the Lynburns, more about Rob than just a facade of black-and-white evil, more of the classic atmosphere that Sorry-in-the-Vale possessed in Unspoken. Just...more.
(Just Jared!) You didn't think I'd end this review without mentioning Jared or Rusty, did you? ;) Rusty, as always, is a delight with his laugh-out-loud dialogue and hidden depths - which still remain hidden. Jared, however, becomes ever more real as the novel progresses. I love the few glimpses we're given into his mind - heart-breaking, but necessary - and am really impressed by the moral ambiguity associated with this character. His affection for Kami is no secret, but neither is his desire for the link, which puts him in an ironic situation. Furthermore, Brennan brings up another level of interest as she forces us to question whether Jared would be Jared without Kami in his head. It's interesting, merely because Jared is so very fixated upon Kami and does contain his own dark patches. He really does steal the show whenever he turns up on the page, though, and I really love that both he and Kami retain their own auras, despite their tight bond.
Ultimately, I can't say that Untold shows much plot progression, but it's entertaining nevertheless. I both love and hate that there's such a strong focus on character development in this novel, only because much of it failed to have much direction, but Brennan manages to keep us riveted with her every word and it's physically painful to leave behind these characters as we leave our hearts behind too. Untold isn't one of Brennan's best works, but it'll keep you coming back for more. (What? You thought Brennan wouldn't write another cliffhanger? You naive reader...you're in for a shock with these last few pages. And we thought Unspoken was bad... *shakes head*)
November 3, 2013
Actual rating: 3.5
I usually hate love triangles, I usually hate the romance. This book is different in that I actually enjoyed both. I felt the love triangle was complex enough, the romance and relationships between the characters were beautifully, realistically portrayed. This book had a tremendous amount of humor. It had an amazing, strong main character. The side characters were compelling; funny, flawed, loveable. It portrayed a lesbian character and her ordeal with coming into herself with sensitivity, tact, and realism. The writing is awesome; I am going to have to restrain myself from using an abundance of quotes here.
So why not a 4? Why not a 5? Because as much as I loved the characters and the romance...both completely eclipsed the story. This is one of those rare instances where I loved the characters, but hated the slowness of the book.
Because the angst was overwhelming.
Because the plot was tedious, slow, and boring compared to brilliant portrayal of the characters.
This book truly is good. It is so beautifully written. There was something on almost every page that made me smile, but the characters and the romance overshadowed the actual story. As much as I enjoyed the writing, as short as this book is, this book took me over an entire month to read because the actual plot line was not compelling at all. This still remains a refreshing book, and I would still highly recommend it, because for me, excellent characterization wins out every time.
Untold is the second book in the Lynburn Legacy. I don't recall much from the first book, but the beginning of this book summed up the events of the first book very well, however, it's probably best not to dive into this book without reading the first. Kami's link to Jared has been broken. Jared and Ash are both acting like children wrestling over a beloved toy. Most importantly; the sorcerer Rob Lynburn is back, and he plans to take over the town of Sorry-in-the-Vale.
The plot is simple. The characters are not. The story drags on so much in the first half of the book; that's actually the part of the book that gave me so much pause in between my bouts of reading. As funny the writing is, as compelling the characters, the plot moves at the pace of a spilled bottle of frozen molasses.
The characters and the writing are without a doubt, the best thing about this book. I could hardly turn a page without reading something that made me smile. Kami is such an awesome character, as are the supporting casts. It still remains Kami's story, the narration is primarily from her point of view, and I absolutely adored her. She is suffering from the severance of her mental link to Jared, who now acts like he hates her.
Ash reacts by crying.
The romance is sweet, steamy at times. There is no sex, but there is plenty of heat, and I have to admit, I got quite hot under the collar at some of the barely repressed kissing scenes in this book.
Bravo to Ms. Brennan for a compassionate, realistic portrayal of teenaged sexuality and coming out of the closet.
Wonderfully written book, I just wished the plot was more compelling.
I usually hate love triangles, I usually hate the romance. This book is different in that I actually enjoyed both. I felt the love triangle was complex enough, the romance and relationships between the characters were beautifully, realistically portrayed. This book had a tremendous amount of humor. It had an amazing, strong main character. The side characters were compelling; funny, flawed, loveable. It portrayed a lesbian character and her ordeal with coming into herself with sensitivity, tact, and realism. The writing is awesome; I am going to have to restrain myself from using an abundance of quotes here.
So why not a 4? Why not a 5? Because as much as I loved the characters and the romance...both completely eclipsed the story. This is one of those rare instances where I loved the characters, but hated the slowness of the book.
Because the angst was overwhelming.
Because the plot was tedious, slow, and boring compared to brilliant portrayal of the characters.
This book truly is good. It is so beautifully written. There was something on almost every page that made me smile, but the characters and the romance overshadowed the actual story. As much as I enjoyed the writing, as short as this book is, this book took me over an entire month to read because the actual plot line was not compelling at all. This still remains a refreshing book, and I would still highly recommend it, because for me, excellent characterization wins out every time.
Untold is the second book in the Lynburn Legacy. I don't recall much from the first book, but the beginning of this book summed up the events of the first book very well, however, it's probably best not to dive into this book without reading the first. Kami's link to Jared has been broken. Jared and Ash are both acting like children wrestling over a beloved toy. Most importantly; the sorcerer Rob Lynburn is back, and he plans to take over the town of Sorry-in-the-Vale.
The plot is simple. The characters are not. The story drags on so much in the first half of the book; that's actually the part of the book that gave me so much pause in between my bouts of reading. As funny the writing is, as compelling the characters, the plot moves at the pace of a spilled bottle of frozen molasses.
The characters and the writing are without a doubt, the best thing about this book. I could hardly turn a page without reading something that made me smile. Kami is such an awesome character, as are the supporting casts. It still remains Kami's story, the narration is primarily from her point of view, and I absolutely adored her. She is suffering from the severance of her mental link to Jared, who now acts like he hates her.
“Been chatting much with Jared?”It may feel silly, it may feel like an abundance of adolescent love, but for me, Kami and Jared's mental connection, and the anguish that results from the cutting of that connection felt so real; I understood Kami's pain. I also understood, to a lesser extent, why Jared acts out so much afterwards.
“We often have special moments where I come into a room and he immediately leaves,” Kami said. “I treasure those times.”
“Every dark moment you ever had in your life,” Jared said. “Every time you were a kid hiding under the covers convinced that nobody in the world existed, that it was just you and the nightmares. Every time you felt alone in a crowd, alone by yourself, forever and essentially alone, and don’t pretend there weren’t moments like that. Every time you felt worthless, every time you thought there was no purpose to existing, no center to the world and no peace to be found. I never had a single moment like that, I was never lonely a day of my life, until now. Now I feel like the world is hell, and hell is a place where the souls of the damned can still see heaven. Because that’s the worst thing of all. And yet I can’t look away.”And rest assured, Jared DOES act out afterwards. There is a horrifying amount of angst throughout the book regarding Ash and Jared. They both have feelings of insecurity. They both have feelings of anger. They feel inadequate. They both like Kami. Jared reacts by running away. By pushing Kami away. By reacting in anger. By being barely civil.
Ash reacts by crying.
Ash ran then, stumbling as if he was drunk or blind, through the home of his dreams and out into the night. He ran down the path into the dark woods, until he could no longer see the lit windows of the manor on the hill. Then he sat at the foot of a tree, head in his hands, and wept.They're both in a very confusing relationship with Kami, and there's an incident of mistaken-identity kissing in the dark that I found rather amusing.
“You thought?” Angela repeated. “Like, you had a kissing hallucination?”I really liked the love triangle here, and I usually cannot tolerate love triangles at all. My problem is not the love triangle itself, but rather, how much precendence it took over the actual plot.
“It was in the corridor,” Kami said. “It was dark. I thought it was Jared but it might—it might have been Ash.”
Angela blinked. “Excuse me? Might?”
“One of those mistaken-identity makeouts,” Kami said defensively. “They happen.”
The romance is sweet, steamy at times. There is no sex, but there is plenty of heat, and I have to admit, I got quite hot under the collar at some of the barely repressed kissing scenes in this book.
Her fingers trailed light along the line of his collarbone, nails tracing the dip at the base of his throat, and she felt the shudder run through his body. She curled her fingers in under the collar of his shirt and used her hold to pull him in again.The other characters in the book are so, so well done. There are a lot of people involved, and they all have their distinct personality. I loved them all. Angela, Holly, Rusty. Instead of leaving them sidelined, they all have their roles to play in the book, and I grew to love them as much as I did Kami. They have such personality, they have such humor. None of the characters are perfect. They react foolishly sometimes, they run away and hurt others in stressful situations; but for me, that's what makes them so much more real.
They kissed and kissed, shivering and shaking apart, neither of them daring to touch each other anywhere risky, both scared and trying not to scare the other off.
She was desperate to be hurt or used or anything, as long as she wanted it, as long as she could prove it was only this she wanted.I loved the portrayal of Angela's sexuality in this book. Angela is a lesbian. She is in love with Holly, who does not exactly return her feelings. I felt that the portrayal of Angela's hurt, her confusion about her feelings were so well done. I loved the conversation she and Kami have about sexuality. It was never preachy. It is never out of place in the book. They're just two friends having a rather awkward conversation; they still love each other, they're still best friends. It's just something they need to discuss. The portrayal of Holly's feelings were so well done as well. Just because someone professes love to you doesn't mean the feeling is reciprocated, and I understand and sympathized with Holly's hurt, her confusion, her anger.
Bravo to Ms. Brennan for a compassionate, realistic portrayal of teenaged sexuality and coming out of the closet.
Wonderfully written book, I just wished the plot was more compelling.
November 22, 2013
"[...] hell is a place where the souls of the damned can still see heaven."
Once again, Sarah doesn't fail to impress and amaze me.
Damn you for messing with my feels like this, Sarah. Damn you.
In a small sleepy town called Sorry-in-the-Vale (with symbolic locations named Shadownchurch Lane, Pleasant Street, Sorrier River, Hope Field, Really Depressed Quarry, and more), things are not going as planned. After finding out that an evil sorcerer with a not-so-hidden-agenda named Rob was behind the death of Nicola Prendergast in Unspoken, it's Journalist Kami's duty to let the people of Sorry-in-the-Vale know that magic exist... with the help of a few Lynburns and some friends, of course.
"Let’s not front. We all know magic is real.
You know. Or it’s time you knew. It’s time someone told you.
I always said that every town has a story, that even our sleepy Sorry-in-the-Vale must have one. I was so sure that I could find a story hidden somewhere under the chocolate-box prettiness of our town. I thought finding a story would be like bird-watching in the Vale woods, waiting for bright eyes and a burst of wings. I thought it would be like finding gold.
It wasn’t like that at all.”
The task will not be easy. Quirky Kami will not only be encountering Scarecrows coming to life, betrayals, and the cold horrifying truth of Rob's plan, but she will experience love as well as the meaning of sacrifice.
After reading reviews of disappointment, I can wipe my forehead of its perspiration from nervousness. I enjoyed Untold just as much as the first instalment; however, I can understand why readers were disappointed with this: the angst and misunderstandings. There was so much of it that even I was shaking the book and yelling aloud in annoyance! This may be the book’s greatest downfall. Nevertheless, I’m letting this slide due to the fact Unspoken left off with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that had to continue its way in the second book of the Lynburn Legacy trilogy. Since this is the second book, everything (all the angst and anger and explanations) needs to be let out here; I feel that all of angst will not be present in the the third novel.
Untold goes into depth with the research, knowledge, and magic — readers will be reading stories of the Lynburn family and their past.
"It’s time to choose sides…"
Rob wants to return Sorry-in-the-Vale back to the way it used to be in the past: when sorcerer’s ruled and had the people in submission; occasionally drawing blood to enhance their power. But in order to do so he’ll need a blood sacrifice on the winter solstice… a human sacrifice. Kami, Ash*, Jared, Angela, Rusty, Holly, and Lillian does not want this to happen, so they’re making plans to fight back.
I enjoyed reading about this gothic town. The writing was so vivid and atmospheric. I also loved the small conversations here and there between Kami and Angela about Angela’s sexual orientation. Kami is there for her and never judgmental which I really liked; she didn’t see Angela differently. Though there’ll be problems with Holly and Angela that I found really frustrating. I’ll see how all of that turns out in the final book. There is some character development in here, but not much, which is fine.
Untold is an excellent Halloween read: outrageously funny and deliciously gothic.
I honestly have no idea what to do with life now that I’m finished with this book.
* I hated Ash so much in this one. What a little coward! I can’t go into details without spoiling, but you’ll find out soon enough once you’ve read this. I really hope he changes and develops in the next book. (Shakes my head)
*****************************************
PRE-REVIEW:
EDIT APRIL 23, 2013
IT HAS A COVER OMMMMMMMGGGGGGG FREAKING OUT IN THE LIBRARY RIGHT NOW OK
-------
I just read the snippet....
Dearest Sarah:
Jared looked down at her. “Want to go up to my room?”
Holly said, “Yes.”
But Kami...
Once again, Sarah doesn't fail to impress and amaze me.
Damn you for messing with my feels like this, Sarah. Damn you.
In a small sleepy town called Sorry-in-the-Vale (with symbolic locations named Shadownchurch Lane, Pleasant Street, Sorrier River, Hope Field, Really Depressed Quarry, and more), things are not going as planned. After finding out that an evil sorcerer with a not-so-hidden-agenda named Rob was behind the death of Nicola Prendergast in Unspoken, it's Journalist Kami's duty to let the people of Sorry-in-the-Vale know that magic exist... with the help of a few Lynburns and some friends, of course.
"Let’s not front. We all know magic is real.
You know. Or it’s time you knew. It’s time someone told you.
I always said that every town has a story, that even our sleepy Sorry-in-the-Vale must have one. I was so sure that I could find a story hidden somewhere under the chocolate-box prettiness of our town. I thought finding a story would be like bird-watching in the Vale woods, waiting for bright eyes and a burst of wings. I thought it would be like finding gold.
It wasn’t like that at all.”
The task will not be easy. Quirky Kami will not only be encountering Scarecrows coming to life, betrayals, and the cold horrifying truth of Rob's plan, but she will experience love as well as the meaning of sacrifice.
After reading reviews of disappointment, I can wipe my forehead of its perspiration from nervousness. I enjoyed Untold just as much as the first instalment; however, I can understand why readers were disappointed with this: the angst and misunderstandings. There was so much of it that even I was shaking the book and yelling aloud in annoyance! This may be the book’s greatest downfall. Nevertheless, I’m letting this slide due to the fact Unspoken left off with a jaw-dropping cliffhanger that had to continue its way in the second book of the Lynburn Legacy trilogy. Since this is the second book, everything (all the angst and anger and explanations) needs to be let out here; I feel that all of angst will not be present in the the third novel.
Untold goes into depth with the research, knowledge, and magic — readers will be reading stories of the Lynburn family and their past.
"It’s time to choose sides…"
Rob wants to return Sorry-in-the-Vale back to the way it used to be in the past: when sorcerer’s ruled and had the people in submission; occasionally drawing blood to enhance their power. But in order to do so he’ll need a blood sacrifice on the winter solstice… a human sacrifice. Kami, Ash*, Jared, Angela, Rusty, Holly, and Lillian does not want this to happen, so they’re making plans to fight back.
I enjoyed reading about this gothic town. The writing was so vivid and atmospheric. I also loved the small conversations here and there between Kami and Angela about Angela’s sexual orientation. Kami is there for her and never judgmental which I really liked; she didn’t see Angela differently. Though there’ll be problems with Holly and Angela that I found really frustrating. I’ll see how all of that turns out in the final book. There is some character development in here, but not much, which is fine.
Untold is an excellent Halloween read: outrageously funny and deliciously gothic.
I honestly have no idea what to do with life now that I’m finished with this book.
* I hated Ash so much in this one. What a little coward! I can’t go into details without spoiling, but you’ll find out soon enough once you’ve read this. I really hope he changes and develops in the next book. (Shakes my head)
*****************************************
PRE-REVIEW:
EDIT APRIL 23, 2013
IT HAS A COVER OMMMMMMMGGGGGGG FREAKING OUT IN THE LIBRARY RIGHT NOW OK
-------
I just read the snippet....
Dearest Sarah:
Jared looked down at her. “Want to go up to my room?”
Holly said, “Yes.”
But Kami...
October 13, 2013
Oh Sarah, I see what you're doing. Give us an amazing book, leave us on a terrible cliffhanger, make us wait until June September.
I'm on to you lady.
Official Review now that the above waiting madness is over:
I loved Unspoken beyond all reason. My review is nothing but gushing sentences and stress. The cliffhanger at the end was a doozey and I don’t know how I managed to wait over a year to read Untold, but I did, and now I’m tasked with scooping up my feels and sorting them in to a coherent review.
Untold begins soon after Unspoken ended and Kami and Jared are not speaking, barely tolerating one another and both of them are absolutely miserable. They, along with the rest of the crew, must band together to stop Ash’s father from taking over Sorry-in-the-Vale and reinstituting blood sacrifices. The group spends a lot of time making plans, having planning meetings, training for said plan etc. and that is the reason I was unable to give this book 5 stars. The plot itself is not this books strong suit. There is so much waiting around for a final battle that when the battle does happen I felt rather unimpressed.
What this book does well, and what Sarah does well, is characters. I adore Kami who has taken her fledging journalism career in her own hands and is passing out a school paper that the entire town is reading. I love that she is strong, spunky, and despite not having any magical power she is the one actively trying to save the town, it is Kami that the others are following and looking to for direction. Even if Kami is a jumbled mess over Jared.
Jared disappointed me a little in this book. I won’t lie I’ve never been firmly in Jared’s corner. The brooding bad boy act is a little old, and while I do want him and Kami to be together his actions make it hard for me to like him. Jared and Kami kept having these ‘two ships passing in the night’ moments and after a while I wanted to shake them both. Say what you mean, and mean what you say!
Luckily, Rusty played a much bigger role in this novel and that almost entirely made up for my frustration with Kami and Jared. When I met Sarah at the RT Convention this year she asked me what team I was on and instantly and unabashedly I said “Team Rusty of course!” The guy is a total scene stealer and I liked that he is a little more serious (though still witty and awesome) in this novel. I hope to see even more of him in the next novel.
I almost forgot to mention Angela, Holly, and Ash so to quickly recap. Angela was great. I like her nearly as much as her brother. I’ve never really liked Holly so I didn’t like her in this book either. I could rant on about why I dislike her but honestly I don’t have a very good reason, she is just a character I don’t like. I found myself wondering why Kami is friends with her in the first place and I drew a blank. Then Ash, he reminds me of Amelia Pond in Doctor Who, he is the boy who waited; the one who’s done everything right and just wants to be noticed and loved. I feel so sorry for/sympathetic toward Ash I want him to have a happy ending because the guy is trying so damn hard and no one ever seems to notice or give him credit for that.
Overall, Untold was a novel I enjoyed. I didn’t like it as much as Unspoken. I felt the plot was a bit repetitive with all the planning and preparations but I was so happy to see the characters again that it was worth the wait. I am now going to suffer through another year of waiting just to read more about these characters and Sorry-in-the-Vale and Rusty, but mostly Rusty.
I'm on to you lady.
Official Review now that the above waiting madness is over:
I loved Unspoken beyond all reason. My review is nothing but gushing sentences and stress. The cliffhanger at the end was a doozey and I don’t know how I managed to wait over a year to read Untold, but I did, and now I’m tasked with scooping up my feels and sorting them in to a coherent review.
Untold begins soon after Unspoken ended and Kami and Jared are not speaking, barely tolerating one another and both of them are absolutely miserable. They, along with the rest of the crew, must band together to stop Ash’s father from taking over Sorry-in-the-Vale and reinstituting blood sacrifices. The group spends a lot of time making plans, having planning meetings, training for said plan etc. and that is the reason I was unable to give this book 5 stars. The plot itself is not this books strong suit. There is so much waiting around for a final battle that when the battle does happen I felt rather unimpressed.
What this book does well, and what Sarah does well, is characters. I adore Kami who has taken her fledging journalism career in her own hands and is passing out a school paper that the entire town is reading. I love that she is strong, spunky, and despite not having any magical power she is the one actively trying to save the town, it is Kami that the others are following and looking to for direction. Even if Kami is a jumbled mess over Jared.
Jared disappointed me a little in this book. I won’t lie I’ve never been firmly in Jared’s corner. The brooding bad boy act is a little old, and while I do want him and Kami to be together his actions make it hard for me to like him. Jared and Kami kept having these ‘two ships passing in the night’ moments and after a while I wanted to shake them both. Say what you mean, and mean what you say!
Luckily, Rusty played a much bigger role in this novel and that almost entirely made up for my frustration with Kami and Jared. When I met Sarah at the RT Convention this year she asked me what team I was on and instantly and unabashedly I said “Team Rusty of course!” The guy is a total scene stealer and I liked that he is a little more serious (though still witty and awesome) in this novel. I hope to see even more of him in the next novel.
I almost forgot to mention Angela, Holly, and Ash so to quickly recap. Angela was great. I like her nearly as much as her brother. I’ve never really liked Holly so I didn’t like her in this book either. I could rant on about why I dislike her but honestly I don’t have a very good reason, she is just a character I don’t like. I found myself wondering why Kami is friends with her in the first place and I drew a blank. Then Ash, he reminds me of Amelia Pond in Doctor Who, he is the boy who waited; the one who’s done everything right and just wants to be noticed and loved. I feel so sorry for/sympathetic toward Ash I want him to have a happy ending because the guy is trying so damn hard and no one ever seems to notice or give him credit for that.
Overall, Untold was a novel I enjoyed. I didn’t like it as much as Unspoken. I felt the plot was a bit repetitive with all the planning and preparations but I was so happy to see the characters again that it was worth the wait. I am now going to suffer through another year of waiting just to read more about these characters and Sorry-in-the-Vale and Rusty, but mostly Rusty.
Want to read
January 24, 2013Update 1/24/2013: After being veeeery hesitant, I indulged myself and read all the released snippets. They made me come to the following conclusions; Ash is a jerk (turning good in the last few pages, doesn't undo his entire past), Jared is a jerk, Holly is a jerk, Angie is more naive than I initially thought, Kami is too soft for her own good (please buck up, hon, there's still a lot to come) and Rusty - oh God, Rusty! - is absolutely awesome. I get the feeling we'll be having a steadily increasing fanbase for that spectacular man. Somehow he's a dork, a friend, a brother and a seemingly excellent choice of a lover.
------
If I could rip my screen apart while reading that accursed snippet I would've gladly done so. And now I'm considering hiring a snipper for the said snippet. If only...
Ms. Brennan - grrr - as infuriating as it was, I have to admit it was a tad spicy too. Now I'm looking forward to more Unspoken continuations, no matter what they'll be.
PS. By no means take "...no matter what they'll be" literally. The next time I just might flip!
------
If I could rip my screen apart while reading that accursed snippet I would've gladly done so. And now I'm considering hiring a snipper for the said snippet. If only...
Ms. Brennan - grrr - as infuriating as it was, I have to admit it was a tad spicy too. Now I'm looking forward to more Unspoken continuations, no matter what they'll be.
PS. By no means take "...no matter what they'll be" literally. The next time I just might flip!
May 6, 2013
Hurls iPad across the room. Muffles a scream of frustration. Sighs and goes over to retrieve said iPad.
I absolutely hated this book (no, not really). It made me want to pull my hair out (seriously, I have bald spots). But for the "lovely, lovely readers who suffered over the ending of Unspoken," it's definitely a must-read. Yeah, I read your acknowledgement at the end of this book. I am on to you, lady!!! >:(
In Brennan's defense, my rating probably has to do a lot with my feelings toward Kami. Those who knew me when I read the ARC for Unspoken, knows there I have NO lost love for her. Yep, she's still the sarcastic, nosy, self-righteous, "I'm going to find out the truth and write all about it" know-it-all that she has always been. And speaking of her "journalistic skills" - yes, it's in quotes - I'm NOT impressed. I just hate it when people like her give the stereotypically wrong impression of reporters. Sorry for the rant, but I just had to put that out there.
Putting that part aside, Kami STILL annoyed me to no end. For someone who prided herself as a keen, observant journalist, she really was blind to everything that was going on and was really slow to catch up. I understand that she's lost a piece of herself, and she's unsure of what was real, but geez! Open your eyes! She has NO idea what she's talking bout, and she kept making assumptions instead of asking, leading to one stupid action after another.
But, but, what happens between Kami and Jared? Do they get it together? I can't tell you. (Don't throw anything at me!) But I WILL tell you this - and you probably already guess it. Be prepared for those scenes where Yep, leave your eReaders in their protective cases and style your hair in a ponytail or bun where it's hard to pull. But will it be all worth it in the end? You just have to read it and see.
A few other issues before I get to the good stuff. The beginning of the book was so depressing to read. Jared was being a complete and utterly stoic jerk, and everyone was so mean. I really, really wanted to slap Holly. And Ash? What HAPPENED to him? I mean, I get that he was hiding his true nature in the first book, but seriously? To go from a pretty conniving villain to such a "bunny killer" in this book was so disappointing. It was pathetic really.
Despite all of that, I still love Rusty, as I had claimed in my review of Unspoken. He's so goofy in a dorky kind of way that just makes me chuckle and shake my head. And he's pompous, but in a hilariously entertaining sort of way, not because he really thinks that much of himself. And it doesn't hurt that he's hot and very charming when it comes to the ladies. Swoon! It's just a shame that
Anyway, I still thought the story was pretty good, although it's nothing like the uniqueness of them being in each other's minds from book 1. There was a good mix of kick-butt action and learning about the magic, although I did have a pretty ridiculous image in my head The history of Matthew Cooper was really intriguing, and it makes you wonder if history had and possibly will repeat itself again. It was really interesting to see who was on which side, and it was gripping to see who was going to come out on top because you could never tell if Lillian or Rob had the upper hand.
Don't get me wrong, there were parts were I wanted to squee, and chapter 20 was an AWESOME chapter. But then, I had to suit up and go back onto the battlefield. And why did I throw my iPad? The end! OMG, the end! No, "lovely, lovely readers who suffered over the ending of Unspoken," there is not a cliffhanger. Ha suckers! Brennan is :P But, but, still… Ah dangit, I can't spoil anything. Just read the book.
I know this book had a lot of the usually drama that goes along with being the "middle book," which counts a lot to why my review seems so negative. But when I wasn't cursing at the story, I was flipping through the pages, really enjoying the book. I can tell that Brennan is just rounding everyone up for the next book, which is going to be explosive. Now, if only I can hang on long enough for this book to come out before the next one even has an ARC.
I absolutely hated this book (no, not really). It made me want to pull my hair out (seriously, I have bald spots). But for the "lovely, lovely readers who suffered over the ending of Unspoken," it's definitely a must-read. Yeah, I read your acknowledgement at the end of this book. I am on to you, lady!!! >:(
In Brennan's defense, my rating probably has to do a lot with my feelings toward Kami. Those who knew me when I read the ARC for Unspoken, knows there I have NO lost love for her. Yep, she's still the sarcastic, nosy, self-righteous, "I'm going to find out the truth and write all about it" know-it-all that she has always been. And speaking of her "journalistic skills" - yes, it's in quotes - I'm NOT impressed. I just hate it when people like her give the stereotypically wrong impression of reporters. Sorry for the rant, but I just had to put that out there.
Putting that part aside, Kami STILL annoyed me to no end. For someone who prided herself as a keen, observant journalist, she really was blind to everything that was going on and was really slow to catch up. I understand that she's lost a piece of herself, and she's unsure of what was real, but geez! Open your eyes! She has NO idea what she's talking bout, and she kept making assumptions instead of asking, leading to one stupid action after another.
But, but, what happens between Kami and Jared? Do they get it together? I can't tell you. (Don't throw anything at me!) But I WILL tell you this - and you probably already guess it. Be prepared for those scenes where Yep, leave your eReaders in their protective cases and style your hair in a ponytail or bun where it's hard to pull. But will it be all worth it in the end? You just have to read it and see.
A few other issues before I get to the good stuff. The beginning of the book was so depressing to read. Jared was being a complete and utterly stoic jerk, and everyone was so mean. I really, really wanted to slap Holly. And Ash? What HAPPENED to him? I mean, I get that he was hiding his true nature in the first book, but seriously? To go from a pretty conniving villain to such a "bunny killer" in this book was so disappointing. It was pathetic really.
Despite all of that, I still love Rusty, as I had claimed in my review of Unspoken. He's so goofy in a dorky kind of way that just makes me chuckle and shake my head. And he's pompous, but in a hilariously entertaining sort of way, not because he really thinks that much of himself. And it doesn't hurt that he's hot and very charming when it comes to the ladies. Swoon! It's just a shame that
Anyway, I still thought the story was pretty good, although it's nothing like the uniqueness of them being in each other's minds from book 1. There was a good mix of kick-butt action and learning about the magic, although I did have a pretty ridiculous image in my head The history of Matthew Cooper was really intriguing, and it makes you wonder if history had and possibly will repeat itself again. It was really interesting to see who was on which side, and it was gripping to see who was going to come out on top because you could never tell if Lillian or Rob had the upper hand.
Don't get me wrong, there were parts were I wanted to squee, and chapter 20 was an AWESOME chapter. But then, I had to suit up and go back onto the battlefield. And why did I throw my iPad? The end! OMG, the end! No, "lovely, lovely readers who suffered over the ending of Unspoken," there is not a cliffhanger. Ha suckers! Brennan is :P But, but, still… Ah dangit, I can't spoil anything. Just read the book.
I know this book had a lot of the usually drama that goes along with being the "middle book," which counts a lot to why my review seems so negative. But when I wasn't cursing at the story, I was flipping through the pages, really enjoying the book. I can tell that Brennan is just rounding everyone up for the next book, which is going to be explosive. Now, if only I can hang on long enough for this book to come out before the next one even has an ARC.
September 1, 2013
Arc won by Erin "the cat" :)
For those of you who have already been introduced to the gripping plot that takes place on "SORRY-IN-THE-VALE" with Unspoken, you'll be pleased to know, that this story is even better than the first..
IT IS!!! IT REALLY IS!! YAY!!
*a little fangirl moment*
The characters have depth, they're interesting *a little insane sometimes, yes, but who cares?*, and quirky!! In fact, there's quirkiness to be given and sold, for everyone who decides _ with reason!! _ to read this series.
Kami, continues to be her same outspoken, bigger than life self...but one can see that she has grown. The same happens to Angie and Holly, for instance. You'll be pleased to know, that Angie continues to worship...naps!! Although not so much as the first book...because this one's darker and there's not so many moments that are nap inducing...for ANGIE!! For us readers there's definitely no nap inducing moments!!
Then there's RUSTY, he's...amazing. He has always a witty response....he's....I DON'T KNOW WHAT HE IS!!! (he probably doesn't know it either..)BUT I LIKE HIM!!
A definition to his kind of character has not yet been provided!!
I also liked the way the dynamics between Kami's family were developed in this one. Much more deeper, much more somber, because this time the secrets are out in the open, and things will never be the same..
I could speak about Ash....but i'm gonna skip this Lynburn, for the one that really interests me. LOL
JARED...what can i say that won't be spoilery??
Well *biting nails* he continues to be his same old....frustrating...exasperating self....BUT..
BEWARE, there will be some interesting developments!!! *.*
So, i loved the writing, the characters, the plot, honestly it was a five gazillion stars worth of a read ;)
The only thing missing?
The third one!!
YES, bring it on!!!
September 11, 2013
Spoilers
A somewhat entertaining read. There were a lot of parts that dragged but the main issue I had with Untold was that there was too much ridiculous teen drama, and not enough actual storyline.
-The characters were a bit of a mixed bag. I absolutely loathed Jared and Holly, they were fucking awful… Kami, Angela, and Rusty on the other hand were more or less decent enough.
-One thing that really irritated me was that most of the teen drama was down to a lack of communication. I hate when things are dragged out or angsty just because certain characters can't hold a simple fucking conversation — all it does is make everything come across as contrived and ridiculous.
-Some of the writing and dialogue was awkward, and there were parts that didn't flow very well.
-For most of Untold there wasn't much going on plot wise. Rob and his evul sorcerers threatened Kami and co at the beginning, and then Kami and the gang half heartedly tried to find ways to beat the bad guys whilst whining about their love lives, and the showdown at the end was utterly underwhelming. There was way too much misunderstandings, angst, and relationship nonsense… And not enough meaty plot.
-Kami was a decent enough heroine (mostly). What did piss me off about her was like all other YA heroines she kept jumping to conclusions, and instead of talking to her friends (Jared mainly), she kept things to herself and created unnecessary drama.
I did like that Kami had a strong bond with her family and some of her friends — most heroines tend to be loners or misunderstood idiots, so it was nice having a heroine who didn't act all speshul and emo.
I did find it weird how Kami appointed herself the leader and took charge of trying to find ways to stop Rob and his evul sorcerers. She wasn't magical or knowledgeable, yet Jared/Ash and everyone else were cool about following her lead about things that she knew very little about. It wasn't like her investigative skills were all that great — it just made no sense whatsoever that her more powerful and more experienced friends were perfectly okay with letting Kami be in charge.
I was really disappointed by Kami's calm reaction when she stumbled upon Jared and Holly's hot and heavy make out session, it was weird how quickly she got over it. Not only that, it was super pathetic how she jumped into a relationship with Jared so soon after him hooking up with Holly - why would she want him a couple of days after he was all over one of her best friends? Where was her self respect?
-Jared was such a whiny-self-pitying-selfish-bitchy-douche. He treated Kami like dirt and then whined when she didn't worship the ground he walked on. No matter how many times he claimed to have feelings for her it never rang true — not once did he actually act like he loved her. He didn't respect her, he ignored her, he told her he hated her, and he bitched at her. He showed more respect, passion and feeling towards Holly - he was all over her in the pub and it was obvious how desperate he was for some Holly action. His sudden 'I love Kami' mantra was ridiculous — he hadn't done anything that supported that statement. All he ever did around Kami was act like a bitch, and since when does that equal love?
Ugh, I HATED Jared. Kami deserved better than that fucking fucker.
-Holly was a horrible friend. I felt sorry for her in regard to her family situation and the secrets she had to keep, but I hated how she was all over Ash and Jared when she knew that Kami once liked Ash, and that Kami was in love with Jared. There was no excuse for it, her being in a difficult situation didn't mean it was okay for her to stab Kami in the back just to make herself better. What kind of friend does that? Kami was nothing but supportive of her, and even Angela made it clear that she'd help Holly with anything. But because Holly was a selfish cow, she rejected them and chose to fuck over Kami because she was a vile cow.
I HATED how Holly treated Angela. She knew that Angela was having a difficult time with her sexuality and instead of being there for her… She acted disgusted. I hope Holly doesn't suddenly realise she wants Angela - I don't want Angela dating someone who treated her like rubbish and acted like she had a disease of some sort. Angela deserves better than a cow who's done nothing but hurt her.
-Ash was meh. I didn't really see the point of him. Kami and co should have told him to fuck off after what he did in the first book, he didn't deserve to have any friends. Angela should have killed him or at the very least seriously hurt him - I don't know how she could be in the same room as him when he'd been planning to killing her.
-I knew Ash and Jared would turn out to be half brothers.
-I loved Rusty, he was really funny. He was definitely more suited to Kami than Jared. I really want a Rusty/Kami HEA.
-Angela was as likeable as ever. Her friendship with Kami was really sweet. She definitely needs a new love interest, I don't want her settling for Holly after all the shit that happened between them. She needs someone that actually respects and appreciates her.
-Kami and co were never in any lessons and they didn't seem to do any school work. They should have at least been a little bit busy with assignments and studying - instead all they did was sleuth, angst, whine, and fight evul.
-That whole Matthew arc seemed pointless. I'm guessing there'll be some Matthew related discovery in the next book. I really don't know why there was so much time wasted on it in this book - the Matthew arc went nowhere.
-Where did Kami's mum disappear to at the end?
-Some parts seemed really preachy and heavy handed in regard to sexuality and whatnot.
-I have no doubt that Rob will break Jared in the next book, and Jared will be all cold and evul for a while, he'll hurt Kami and co in some way, and then Kami will try to save him, and at the last minute he'll join the god guys, and all his douchey behaviour will be forgiven. Ugh, I hope he dies.
All in all, it was a decent enough read, it just needed to be less teen-drama centric and more plot centric.
A somewhat entertaining read. There were a lot of parts that dragged but the main issue I had with Untold was that there was too much ridiculous teen drama, and not enough actual storyline.
-The characters were a bit of a mixed bag. I absolutely loathed Jared and Holly, they were fucking awful… Kami, Angela, and Rusty on the other hand were more or less decent enough.
-One thing that really irritated me was that most of the teen drama was down to a lack of communication. I hate when things are dragged out or angsty just because certain characters can't hold a simple fucking conversation — all it does is make everything come across as contrived and ridiculous.
-Some of the writing and dialogue was awkward, and there were parts that didn't flow very well.
-For most of Untold there wasn't much going on plot wise. Rob and his evul sorcerers threatened Kami and co at the beginning, and then Kami and the gang half heartedly tried to find ways to beat the bad guys whilst whining about their love lives, and the showdown at the end was utterly underwhelming. There was way too much misunderstandings, angst, and relationship nonsense… And not enough meaty plot.
-Kami was a decent enough heroine (mostly). What did piss me off about her was like all other YA heroines she kept jumping to conclusions, and instead of talking to her friends (Jared mainly), she kept things to herself and created unnecessary drama.
I did like that Kami had a strong bond with her family and some of her friends — most heroines tend to be loners or misunderstood idiots, so it was nice having a heroine who didn't act all speshul and emo.
I did find it weird how Kami appointed herself the leader and took charge of trying to find ways to stop Rob and his evul sorcerers. She wasn't magical or knowledgeable, yet Jared/Ash and everyone else were cool about following her lead about things that she knew very little about. It wasn't like her investigative skills were all that great — it just made no sense whatsoever that her more powerful and more experienced friends were perfectly okay with letting Kami be in charge.
I was really disappointed by Kami's calm reaction when she stumbled upon Jared and Holly's hot and heavy make out session, it was weird how quickly she got over it. Not only that, it was super pathetic how she jumped into a relationship with Jared so soon after him hooking up with Holly - why would she want him a couple of days after he was all over one of her best friends? Where was her self respect?
-Jared was such a whiny-self-pitying-selfish-bitchy-douche. He treated Kami like dirt and then whined when she didn't worship the ground he walked on. No matter how many times he claimed to have feelings for her it never rang true — not once did he actually act like he loved her. He didn't respect her, he ignored her, he told her he hated her, and he bitched at her. He showed more respect, passion and feeling towards Holly - he was all over her in the pub and it was obvious how desperate he was for some Holly action. His sudden 'I love Kami' mantra was ridiculous — he hadn't done anything that supported that statement. All he ever did around Kami was act like a bitch, and since when does that equal love?
Ugh, I HATED Jared. Kami deserved better than that fucking fucker.
-Holly was a horrible friend. I felt sorry for her in regard to her family situation and the secrets she had to keep, but I hated how she was all over Ash and Jared when she knew that Kami once liked Ash, and that Kami was in love with Jared. There was no excuse for it, her being in a difficult situation didn't mean it was okay for her to stab Kami in the back just to make herself better. What kind of friend does that? Kami was nothing but supportive of her, and even Angela made it clear that she'd help Holly with anything. But because Holly was a selfish cow, she rejected them and chose to fuck over Kami because she was a vile cow.
I HATED how Holly treated Angela. She knew that Angela was having a difficult time with her sexuality and instead of being there for her… She acted disgusted. I hope Holly doesn't suddenly realise she wants Angela - I don't want Angela dating someone who treated her like rubbish and acted like she had a disease of some sort. Angela deserves better than a cow who's done nothing but hurt her.
-Ash was meh. I didn't really see the point of him. Kami and co should have told him to fuck off after what he did in the first book, he didn't deserve to have any friends. Angela should have killed him or at the very least seriously hurt him - I don't know how she could be in the same room as him when he'd been planning to killing her.
-I knew Ash and Jared would turn out to be half brothers.
-I loved Rusty, he was really funny. He was definitely more suited to Kami than Jared. I really want a Rusty/Kami HEA.
-Angela was as likeable as ever. Her friendship with Kami was really sweet. She definitely needs a new love interest, I don't want her settling for Holly after all the shit that happened between them. She needs someone that actually respects and appreciates her.
-Kami and co were never in any lessons and they didn't seem to do any school work. They should have at least been a little bit busy with assignments and studying - instead all they did was sleuth, angst, whine, and fight evul.
-That whole Matthew arc seemed pointless. I'm guessing there'll be some Matthew related discovery in the next book. I really don't know why there was so much time wasted on it in this book - the Matthew arc went nowhere.
-Where did Kami's mum disappear to at the end?
-Some parts seemed really preachy and heavy handed in regard to sexuality and whatnot.
-I have no doubt that Rob will break Jared in the next book, and Jared will be all cold and evul for a while, he'll hurt Kami and co in some way, and then Kami will try to save him, and at the last minute he'll join the god guys, and all his douchey behaviour will be forgiven. Ugh, I hope he dies.
All in all, it was a decent enough read, it just needed to be less teen-drama centric and more plot centric.
October 13, 2019
4.5 stars
Originally posted at Writer of Wrongs
Untold by Sarah Rees Brennan, book two in the Lynburn Legacy: A Reading Experience
Me, upon beginning: Oh, and everything's already gone to pot.
Me: Best cameo made by a fleet of inanimate objects suddenly made animate.
Me: KAMI YOU ARE SO SPECIAL DON'T YOU SEE HE'S LYING HE JUST CAN'T DEAL WITH HIS GOOEY MARSHMALLOW CENTER
Me: *sob* I love a boy with layers. You, Jared Lynburn, are an onion. You're an onion parfait. Layered between many more onion parfaits.
Me: I love the magic in this series. And the Britishness. And the boys. And the girls. And Kami. And the boys.
Me: Can I grow up to be Lillian Lynburn
Me: No, I want to be Jon Glass, I've changed by mind
Me: Oh dear God that is the best and worst kiss scene in Creation
Me: OMG PUNCHES ARE FLYING RUSTY OH MY GOD
Me: Poor Holly. Poor Ash. Poor Kami. Holla, my babies, just kiss and make up! Mostly kiss, obviously!
Me: SRB why do heap such pain on the sparkly little gem that is Kami she should know nothing but joy you monster
Me: Jared, you colossal idiot.
Me: JARED AND KAMI YOU'RE PERFECT WHY CAN'T YOU SEEE IT, YOU HAVE SHARED A SOUUUUL, YOU ARE TANGLED UP TOGETHER! YOU BLEED WHEN HE BLEEDS! *sobs* It's so be-e-eautiful!
Me: Oh, Ash. Thou hast made a valiant effort. *pats Ash's head*
Me: AWKWARD.
Delivery man, at the door: Delivery!
Me: THERE'S NO ONE HERE BY THAT NAME GO AWAY WE'RE READING
Father: That's the Chinese food. I ordered Chinese.
Me: Kami is JAPANESE.
Father: You've been reading that book too long.
Me: Rusty, dearest, I have a lovely couch right here you could nap on if you like. Oh, hell, don't make me ship another ship, SRB, please. My armada is getting a bit unwieldy. Stop being so adorable, Rusty. If you can.
Me: You can't.
Me: Kami is an absolutely splendid, sparkly, magical girl made of unicorns and happiness and pluck and sass and sunshine and I adore her beyond all reason.
Me: We've been planning for a big showdown for a while. There had better be a MASSIVE SHOWDOWN COMING UP.
Me: *howls with laughter* *builds shrine to Jon Glass, best father in Sorry-in-the-Vale, the east competition ever, considering he doesn't drink or sacrifice his children to increase the potency of his dark magic in the goal of subjugating an entire village to his will*
Me: I didn't know it was possible to love a group of characters so fiercely.
Me: WHOAAAA, HOLLY. That's an excellent twist!
Me: There is definitely something quippy in the water in Sorry-in-the-Vale. Everybody is so (unbelievably, to be honest) witty. I would move there in a heartbeat. I'd totally take a murderous, power-hungry horde of sorcerers in exchange for the guarantee of daily banter and repartee.
Me: Sometimes I read the jokes in this book and I wonder if my brain secretly wrote it without telling me. Like SRB is my Tyler Durden.
Me: Wait. Oh my God. Is this actually...
Me: !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Me: YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!
Me: OH MY GOD. THEY--ARE YOU--A HAPPY THING... JUST.... HAPPENED??? I'm being tricked. It's a plot. I don't trust it.
Me: Stupid, of course it's a plot. It's literally a plot. This is a book.
*massive showdown*
Me: NO.
Me: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
Me: NNNNNNNNNGHHHHH!!!
Friend, unfortunately nearby: That was not a sound as yet made by humans.
Me: BUGUHHHHHHH.
Friend: Wait, that's the series with the hot sorceror boys who make jokes, and where everybody wants to kiss everybody else all the time, and, like, they're all miserable? The one that made you scream that one time?
Me: *says nothing, as is dead*
End scene.
Originally posted at Writer of Wrongs
Untold by Sarah Rees Brennan, book two in the Lynburn Legacy: A Reading Experience
Me, upon beginning: Oh, and everything's already gone to pot.
Me: Best cameo made by a fleet of inanimate objects suddenly made animate.
Me: KAMI YOU ARE SO SPECIAL DON'T YOU SEE HE'S LYING HE JUST CAN'T DEAL WITH HIS GOOEY MARSHMALLOW CENTER
Me: *sob* I love a boy with layers. You, Jared Lynburn, are an onion. You're an onion parfait. Layered between many more onion parfaits.
Me: I love the magic in this series. And the Britishness. And the boys. And the girls. And Kami. And the boys.
Me: Can I grow up to be Lillian Lynburn
Me: No, I want to be Jon Glass, I've changed by mind
Me: Oh dear God that is the best and worst kiss scene in Creation
Me: OMG PUNCHES ARE FLYING RUSTY OH MY GOD
Me: Poor Holly. Poor Ash. Poor Kami. Holla, my babies, just kiss and make up! Mostly kiss, obviously!
Me: SRB why do heap such pain on the sparkly little gem that is Kami she should know nothing but joy you monster
Me: Jared, you colossal idiot.
Me: JARED AND KAMI YOU'RE PERFECT WHY CAN'T YOU SEEE IT, YOU HAVE SHARED A SOUUUUL, YOU ARE TANGLED UP TOGETHER! YOU BLEED WHEN HE BLEEDS! *sobs* It's so be-e-eautiful!
Me: Oh, Ash. Thou hast made a valiant effort. *pats Ash's head*
Me: AWKWARD.
Delivery man, at the door: Delivery!
Me: THERE'S NO ONE HERE BY THAT NAME GO AWAY WE'RE READING
Father: That's the Chinese food. I ordered Chinese.
Me: Kami is JAPANESE.
Father: You've been reading that book too long.
Me: Rusty, dearest, I have a lovely couch right here you could nap on if you like. Oh, hell, don't make me ship another ship, SRB, please. My armada is getting a bit unwieldy. Stop being so adorable, Rusty. If you can.
Me: You can't.
Me: Kami is an absolutely splendid, sparkly, magical girl made of unicorns and happiness and pluck and sass and sunshine and I adore her beyond all reason.
Me: We've been planning for a big showdown for a while. There had better be a MASSIVE SHOWDOWN COMING UP.
Me: *howls with laughter* *builds shrine to Jon Glass, best father in Sorry-in-the-Vale, the east competition ever, considering he doesn't drink or sacrifice his children to increase the potency of his dark magic in the goal of subjugating an entire village to his will*
Me: I didn't know it was possible to love a group of characters so fiercely.
Me: WHOAAAA, HOLLY. That's an excellent twist!
Me: There is definitely something quippy in the water in Sorry-in-the-Vale. Everybody is so (unbelievably, to be honest) witty. I would move there in a heartbeat. I'd totally take a murderous, power-hungry horde of sorcerers in exchange for the guarantee of daily banter and repartee.
Me: Sometimes I read the jokes in this book and I wonder if my brain secretly wrote it without telling me. Like SRB is my Tyler Durden.
Me: Wait. Oh my God. Is this actually...
Me: !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Me: YESSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!
Me: OH MY GOD. THEY--ARE YOU--A HAPPY THING... JUST.... HAPPENED??? I'm being tricked. It's a plot. I don't trust it.
Me: Stupid, of course it's a plot. It's literally a plot. This is a book.
*massive showdown*
Me: NO.
Me: NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
Me: NNNNNNNNNGHHHHH!!!
Friend, unfortunately nearby: That was not a sound as yet made by humans.
Me: BUGUHHHHHHH.
Friend: Wait, that's the series with the hot sorceror boys who make jokes, and where everybody wants to kiss everybody else all the time, and, like, they're all miserable? The one that made you scream that one time?
Me: *says nothing, as is dead*
End scene.
Want to read
October 5, 2012Sarah promised me there would be macking. It's part of her trilogy motto.
She promised.
Other than that. I just need this book. And I need it now. DAMN YOU, JUNE 2013 FOR BEING SO FAR AWAY.
... ... ...
...Wait... Whut... June? SARAH, YOU SAID SEPTEMBER.
I'm perfectly alright with this. Though, fer realz. Where's the book?
ETA:
August 29, 2013
Goodreads is a liar.
I hate everything.
Someone hold me.
She promised.
Other than that. I just need this book. And I need it now. DAMN YOU, JUNE 2013 FOR BEING SO FAR AWAY.
... ... ...
...Wait... Whut... June? SARAH, YOU SAID SEPTEMBER.
I'm perfectly alright with this. Though, fer realz. Where's the book?
ETA:
August 29, 2013
Goodreads is a liar.
I hate everything.
Someone hold me.
May 30, 2022
First of all I should say the author was incredibly kind to send me this book - more accurately, my cat won this book for me, but that's a long story involving scratches, and forcing pets to wear little wire-framed spectacles.
The fact I was sent this book by the author does not affect, in any way, my review.What does affect it, is that I've been following Sarah Rees Brennan's writing since way back when, and she has never, ever, disappointed me. So now here we are, the ~dreaded~ 2nd book of a trilogy. In my possession (I may have called it "my precious once or twice...") before it's even out.
Obviously I freaked out. Not in a "This is so great, I am so lucky! Yay!", but in a "Omg, what if I don't like it?!"
It's terrible when you love an author's work and then they write something and you hate it! What now?! What if I hate it?!
This brought me back to when my bff had a baby girl. I know you're supposed to say nice things the first time you see someone's baby, but the more I put it off, the more I stressed out over it: what if the baby was HIDEOUS? What if, when in the presence of that abomination unto the Lord all I could come up with would be something like, "Oh, she has... she has very hirsute whiskers!"
So I put it off and I kept training saying nice things in front of a mirror for a week straight. But finally I could put it off no longer and I had to go see the baby. And the baby was SO FREAKING CUTE!!! So cute I actually turned to the parents and expressed my relief on not having had to lie about her looks. Never do this, by the way - I’ve since learned it’s a social faux pas.
Much the same situation happened with Untold. I was freaking out! I was composing polite ways to critique a disappointing book, because I love the author, and I love everything she writes, but maybe she would read my dreadful review and go, "This is it, the last drop! I shall never put pen to paper again, not even to sign my own name!"
But joy of joys, Untold was much more amazing that my bff's baby. Don't tell her I said that! I mean the kid is really cute, but it just stayed in her crib, sleeping, which I admit, she did rather well... but...
Untold, however, starts kind of like this:
Murderous scarecrows! Girl Power! Hot boys! Hot girls! And chocolate pasta: which I did not even know was a thing, if anyone can get me some I'll be yours forever.
Seriously, this is Sarah Rees Brennan at her best!
I read some reviews expressing displeasure at her use of humour, particularly during dramatic moments. That's what makes it work for me! You know how when you're with someone who'd been so important to you but now is not, and for a fleeting moment there's that spark where the old friendship is there and alive, and everything is well and we're all so happy- BUT IT'S NOT, because it was just a moment, and now it's back to bleak reality. Tell me that doesn't make the situation that more poignant: the juxtaposition of sadness and humour, it makes one so much sadder, the other so much more precious... It's genius writing, that's what it is!
And major props for girl friendship! Passing the Bechdel test left, right, and centre!Plus intrigue, and girl sleuths, creepy magic, and awesome portrayals of family interactions.
What more could I ask for?!
Make-out scenes, of course - but those are in there as well!!
So, I know I talk (well, write) too much, and I usually don't make much sense, but if you take anything from this review it should be: GO READ UNTOLD AS SOON AS YOU CAN GET IT!!!
November 11, 2013
I still dont know if i should/should not write a review for this... i am not in the mood for it, but overall it was okayish, and not as good as the first book sadly... It's one of those bridge books which are there to be a stepping stone for the last one -_-' But overall i love the idea for this series and i love Kami and Jared was so-so in this book (he had done some things which pissed me off sadly)... There is also nasty cliffhanger at the end (but i kind of expected it)
I planned to give it 4 stars, but i am giving it 3.5 stars... :(
I planned to give it 4 stars, but i am giving it 3.5 stars... :(
October 15, 2013
Sit down. I have a lot to say...
There have been much debate over Sarah Rees Brennan's second installment in her Lynburn Legacy trilogy. It had been so hyped up it almost jinxed itself. Untold has received giddy praise and somber criticism. So, which is it? Well, it's kind of both.
Untold tells the aftermath of Kami and Co. after having discovered that it was Rob Lynburn who had been doing the massacring around not-so-sleepy-town Sorry-in-the-Vale. Now, he's recruiting to build an army. As is with most middle books, the basic premise is preparation. Kami needs to spread the word out to the people, to educate them and arm them of and against these evil magic doers.
Plot-wise, the book suffered faintly -- I say faintly because I am unyielding in my fan-love and will be satisfied with whatever Brennan gives me. The book is slow and in the end, progress is short. We learn a little more about how magic works between the Lynburns, a few more spells, a bit more history. But somehow Kami spends more time learning karate moves, doing historical research and playing undercover agents -- all important but not quite the action readers were hoping for. Something I really liked, however, is the time spent with Kami's parents. It's a sweet relationship with genuine affection, so the downward spiral it descends into is heartbreaking. There is also more mystery with Kami's mom. The trouble is, we are given almost no answers.
As for the paranormal factor in this novel, it is hard to believe that as a town that is in the midst of war between centuries-old sorcery and good old human mortality, there is still such a thing as school, or trick-or-treating, or going to the post office. This is one heck of a diplomatic and considerate war -- but I understand, that's the way of the game. With that said, it does make up for lost bloodshed. There is gore and appropriate repercussions are dispensed.
Surprisingly, something many found exasperating was one of the highlights and strengths in the first book -- the quirky, eccentric yet lovable smart-alec attitude of the characters. I agree begrudgingly. Yes, they did occasionally meander into Annoying Ville. There were a little too many clever quips, too many droll retorts.
Kami, in particular. Sometimes I just wanted her to speak normal, which is almost sacrilegious as she is one of the most colourful and effervescent protagonists I've ever met. More than that, she stands for self-respect and self-confidence. Her psychology, understandably, needs healing. She is still struggling from detaching herself as an individual from her link to Jared. Did all her guts and spirit come solely from him or did she possess them on her own? Essentially, is she herself without him? Jared, too, is beginning to open up. And near the end, we hear him; we are allowed access to a character who has so far been unreadable. It was such conflicting pleasure. (Only Jared can do that.)
Having said that, they still frustrated me. Good god, the delusions! The angst! The misinterpretations! You see, the romantic core in the book, to me, is clear. It is just the journey there that is pissing me off. When it comes to love, these two are clueless. (But so meant to be.) The book is heavily focused on mending the cruel cracks left on them after the cut. And the scars go deep. And, as in Unspoken, it is painful yet so rewarding.
This book doesn't quite reach the height of expectations -- and that's okay as they were Everest. But it is still spectacular. What I truly appreciate is the spectrum of topics Brennan covers in her paranormal romance thriller: homosexuality, family dysfunctions, the plight of low income families, marriage problems, superficial beauty, self-acceptance. It is all done subtly, softly; without ever becoming cumbersome.
Brennan tells an absurd, fun, heartfelt story of a girl who speaks to a voice in her head. This voice turns out to be a real live boy. And while they wander into magical adventures, it is ultimately about so much more.
This review also appears on The Midnight Garden.
There have been much debate over Sarah Rees Brennan's second installment in her Lynburn Legacy trilogy. It had been so hyped up it almost jinxed itself. Untold has received giddy praise and somber criticism. So, which is it? Well, it's kind of both.
Untold tells the aftermath of Kami and Co. after having discovered that it was Rob Lynburn who had been doing the massacring around not-so-sleepy-town Sorry-in-the-Vale. Now, he's recruiting to build an army. As is with most middle books, the basic premise is preparation. Kami needs to spread the word out to the people, to educate them and arm them of and against these evil magic doers.
Plot-wise, the book suffered faintly -- I say faintly because I am unyielding in my fan-love and will be satisfied with whatever Brennan gives me. The book is slow and in the end, progress is short. We learn a little more about how magic works between the Lynburns, a few more spells, a bit more history. But somehow Kami spends more time learning karate moves, doing historical research and playing undercover agents -- all important but not quite the action readers were hoping for. Something I really liked, however, is the time spent with Kami's parents. It's a sweet relationship with genuine affection, so the downward spiral it descends into is heartbreaking. There is also more mystery with Kami's mom. The trouble is, we are given almost no answers.
As for the paranormal factor in this novel, it is hard to believe that as a town that is in the midst of war between centuries-old sorcery and good old human mortality, there is still such a thing as school, or trick-or-treating, or going to the post office. This is one heck of a diplomatic and considerate war -- but I understand, that's the way of the game. With that said, it does make up for lost bloodshed. There is gore and appropriate repercussions are dispensed.
Surprisingly, something many found exasperating was one of the highlights and strengths in the first book -- the quirky, eccentric yet lovable smart-alec attitude of the characters. I agree begrudgingly. Yes, they did occasionally meander into Annoying Ville. There were a little too many clever quips, too many droll retorts.
Kami, in particular. Sometimes I just wanted her to speak normal, which is almost sacrilegious as she is one of the most colourful and effervescent protagonists I've ever met. More than that, she stands for self-respect and self-confidence. Her psychology, understandably, needs healing. She is still struggling from detaching herself as an individual from her link to Jared. Did all her guts and spirit come solely from him or did she possess them on her own? Essentially, is she herself without him? Jared, too, is beginning to open up. And near the end, we hear him; we are allowed access to a character who has so far been unreadable. It was such conflicting pleasure. (Only Jared can do that.)
Having said that, they still frustrated me. Good god, the delusions! The angst! The misinterpretations! You see, the romantic core in the book, to me, is clear. It is just the journey there that is pissing me off. When it comes to love, these two are clueless. (But so meant to be.) The book is heavily focused on mending the cruel cracks left on them after the cut. And the scars go deep. And, as in Unspoken, it is painful yet so rewarding.
This book doesn't quite reach the height of expectations -- and that's okay as they were Everest. But it is still spectacular. What I truly appreciate is the spectrum of topics Brennan covers in her paranormal romance thriller: homosexuality, family dysfunctions, the plight of low income families, marriage problems, superficial beauty, self-acceptance. It is all done subtly, softly; without ever becoming cumbersome.
Brennan tells an absurd, fun, heartfelt story of a girl who speaks to a voice in her head. This voice turns out to be a real live boy. And while they wander into magical adventures, it is ultimately about so much more.
This review also appears on The Midnight Garden.
October 2, 2021
What's what in the story: evil mages were trying to take control of a small town in England, the few good mages and residents need to band together to fight against the evildoers before they could perform a human sacrifice rite and gain even more power. Meanwhile, among the teenagers, love triangle and dramas ensured.
Review for book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rating: 3.7 stars.
I don't know what to say, the love triangle isn't endearing, the same sex romantic tension between the two girls lost its steam in the 2/3 part of the book, there are too many build-ups for the battle between the good wizards and the bad ones, the ending..........sighs, it is a bit of a letdown. but as a whole the ending is still a letdown! I don't know whether should I read on because right now I don't like anyone in the story.
Review for book 1: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Rating: 3.7 stars.
I don't know what to say, the love triangle isn't endearing, the same sex romantic tension between the two girls lost its steam in the 2/3 part of the book, there are too many build-ups for the battle between the good wizards and the bad ones, the ending..........sighs, it is a bit of a letdown. but as a whole the ending is still a letdown! I don't know whether should I read on because right now I don't like anyone in the story.
August 30, 2014
Actual Rating 3.5
I have to say, I wasn't nearly as disappointed by this follow-up as I thought I would be but at the same time, it wasn't as awesome as Unspoken. For starters, Kami makes me feel a little iffy to be honest. I like her but at the same time, I really want to shake her.
Also the romance. Seriously? WHAT IS UP with Kami constantly thinking she isn't nearly as attractive as any of her friends and then you see that three guys are vying for her attention! WHAT THE WHAT?
Jared has to be one of the most frustrating love interests ever but at the same time, I absolutely love him. I love how complicated he is character is and I loved getting to know him better in this one. There is something to be said about a character who you could practically write an essay on as you peel back the layers.
Anyway, I am looking forward to reading Unmade but I reallly hope the romantic drama won't get worse.
I have to say, I wasn't nearly as disappointed by this follow-up as I thought I would be but at the same time, it wasn't as awesome as Unspoken. For starters, Kami makes me feel a little iffy to be honest. I like her but at the same time, I really want to shake her.
Also the romance. Seriously? WHAT IS UP with Kami constantly thinking she isn't nearly as attractive as any of her friends and then you see that three guys are vying for her attention! WHAT THE WHAT?
Jared has to be one of the most frustrating love interests ever but at the same time, I absolutely love him. I love how complicated he is character is and I loved getting to know him better in this one. There is something to be said about a character who you could practically write an essay on as you peel back the layers.
Anyway, I am looking forward to reading Unmade but I reallly hope the romantic drama won't get worse.
Shelved as 'on-hold'
February 5, 2014Literally counting the minutes until we are together
July 5, 2018
'She was feeling uncharitable in every direction.'
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT'S HOW THE BOOK ENDS PT. 2?
YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID, BRENNAN. HONESTLY, WHO HURT YOU
Another list of things I'd like to note because this is the only way:
- 160 highlights, my love for this OTP going strong
- I now find scarecrows very creepy thanks a lot for that, book
- KAMI IS GOALS, WELL AND TRULY
- 'Men,' she said. 'Always going on about feelings all the time.' KAMI, ILY
- SOMEONE HELP THAT SUICIDAL TAVERN WENCH WITH ZERO PRESERVATION SKILLS, PLEASE
- What is the meaning of 'He kept welcoming pain, as if it was the only friend he wanted.'
- The first 70% of this book is basically angst and so much angst that I can't believe I actually survived through it
- How have you guys spent all of your lives inside each other's heads and still are so afraid of even the thought of the other's rejection?
- 'You are not inspiring me with a desire to give you a name, Captain Murderface of the good ship Unbalanced.' ARE THEY FOR FUCKING REAL IS WHAT I'D LIKE TO KNOW
- I will admit that I got whiplash because
- Also, can they stop giving me heart attacks by referring to themselves as previous tragedy couples like I still hadn't recovered from them referencing Romeo and Juliet and then they go and call each other Samson and Delilah. PLEASE
- Kami/Angela/Holly, the uncrossable girl gang goals
- RUSTY FINALLY GETTING THE APPRECIATION HE DESERVES
- Him feeling so protective over Angela and Kami killed me
- That story he told when Angela was a baby? Yeah, hell on my feels. TRAGEDY SIBLINGS
- Holly, you mess of a person, you need help and I adore you
- Angela continues to kick ass and need regular hugs
- Kami's dad sassing Lillian is one for the history books, people. My eyes just about popped when he called her Lulubelle and she finally snapped ahaha
- Lillian is such a Slytherin mom with whom I have a love/hate relationship. Love because she clearly prefers Jared over Ash which LOL and hate because HOW DARE SHE DO THAT
- Jared and Lillian ganging up on Ash is the content that I'm here for
- WHY IS ASH LYNBURN
- One of the top moments in the book is when Ash referred to Angela/Holly as hot and my queen Kami cancelled him with the words: 'Other people's sexuality is not your spectator sport.'
- Jared taking Kami's advice and
- Anything Jared fucked me up, really
- Can I get a trilogy about Ten as a teenager? He's honestly too precious for this world
- If
- What, you thought I'd take pity on Rosalind Lynburn after reading this book? You thought wrong.
Favorite quotes: 'If the truth didn't help anyone, and love didn't last, what was there left to struggle toward?'
'I'll bury you alive by her garden gate. I'll enjoy it. Every time she goes out in the morning, every time she comes home, she'll walk on your grave, and she’ll know she's safe.' HELLO, I YELLED
'Being able to love more than one kind of person, in any kind of way—that doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. There's nothing wrong with you.' I LOVE ONE (1) KAMI GLASS
'Everything looked sinister: Kami could not help but think of the phrase "seeing things in a new light," and wonder why there was no phrase for seeing things in a new shadow, realizing how dark the world could become.'
WHAT DO YOU MEAN THAT'S HOW THE BOOK ENDS PT. 2?
YOU KNOW WHAT YOU DID, BRENNAN. HONESTLY, WHO HURT YOU
Another list of things I'd like to note because this is the only way:
- 160 highlights, my love for this OTP going strong
- I now find scarecrows very creepy thanks a lot for that, book
- KAMI IS GOALS, WELL AND TRULY
- 'Men,' she said. 'Always going on about feelings all the time.' KAMI, ILY
- SOMEONE HELP THAT SUICIDAL TAVERN WENCH WITH ZERO PRESERVATION SKILLS, PLEASE
- What is the meaning of 'He kept welcoming pain, as if it was the only friend he wanted.'
- The first 70% of this book is basically angst and so much angst that I can't believe I actually survived through it
- How have you guys spent all of your lives inside each other's heads and still are so afraid of even the thought of the other's rejection?
- 'You are not inspiring me with a desire to give you a name, Captain Murderface of the good ship Unbalanced.' ARE THEY FOR FUCKING REAL IS WHAT I'D LIKE TO KNOW
- I will admit that I got whiplash because
- Also, can they stop giving me heart attacks by referring to themselves as previous tragedy couples like I still hadn't recovered from them referencing Romeo and Juliet and then they go and call each other Samson and Delilah. PLEASE
- Kami/Angela/Holly, the uncrossable girl gang goals
- RUSTY FINALLY GETTING THE APPRECIATION HE DESERVES
- Him feeling so protective over Angela and Kami killed me
- That story he told when Angela was a baby? Yeah, hell on my feels. TRAGEDY SIBLINGS
- Holly, you mess of a person, you need help and I adore you
- Angela continues to kick ass and need regular hugs
- Kami's dad sassing Lillian is one for the history books, people. My eyes just about popped when he called her Lulubelle and she finally snapped ahaha
- Lillian is such a Slytherin mom with whom I have a love/hate relationship. Love because she clearly prefers Jared over Ash which LOL and hate because HOW DARE SHE DO THAT
- Jared and Lillian ganging up on Ash is the content that I'm here for
- WHY IS ASH LYNBURN
- One of the top moments in the book is when Ash referred to Angela/Holly as hot and my queen Kami cancelled him with the words: 'Other people's sexuality is not your spectator sport.'
- Jared taking Kami's advice and
- Anything Jared fucked me up, really
- Can I get a trilogy about Ten as a teenager? He's honestly too precious for this world
- If
- What, you thought I'd take pity on Rosalind Lynburn after reading this book? You thought wrong.
Favorite quotes: 'If the truth didn't help anyone, and love didn't last, what was there left to struggle toward?'
'I'll bury you alive by her garden gate. I'll enjoy it. Every time she goes out in the morning, every time she comes home, she'll walk on your grave, and she’ll know she's safe.' HELLO, I YELLED
'Being able to love more than one kind of person, in any kind of way—that doesn't mean there's something wrong with you. There's nothing wrong with you.' I LOVE ONE (1) KAMI GLASS
'Everything looked sinister: Kami could not help but think of the phrase "seeing things in a new light," and wonder why there was no phrase for seeing things in a new shadow, realizing how dark the world could become.'
May 25, 2015
A Fabulous Follow Up
After the devastating cliffhanger of Unspoken I just HAD to start Untold straight away. WARNING: The cliffhanger to Untold is just as bad; seriously recommend having all 3 books before you start this series!
The evil sorcerer Rob Lynburn is back and eager to take over Sorry-in-the-Vale and bring back the old ways of sacrificing people to aid magic. Rob is now recruiting an army of sorcerer’s to overthrow his wife Lilian Lynburn and rule Aurimere Manor. The character’s are the biggest selling point of this series: Kami is as hilarious as ever, Jared as broody, Ash being insecure and Angela coming to terms with being a lesbian. Brennan managed to create a realistic view of being a teenager with different feelings and relationships.
Kami is still her humorous self and had me laughing with some of her best quotes..
“Been chatting much with Jared?"
"We often have special moments where I come into a room and he immediately leaves," Kami said. "I treasure those times.”
The love triangle takes on a whole new level now that Kami and Jared are no longer connected mentally and after the way he was at the end of Unspoken I needed to know how he really felt. The romance is filled with so much angst it’s frustrating but I secretly loved it especially when Jared & Holly do something ridiculously stupid, I was fuming! Annnnd after that silly lapse in judgment I now have to deal with Kami linked to Ash? What is happening!
Brennan’s writing has significantly improved since Unspoken, I was able to follow and enjoy the story. It was slow and a little predictable but still executed wonderfully, I just hoped for a more exciting plot. With that said after that cliffhanger I cannot wait to read Unmade.
Literary-ly Obsessed
After the devastating cliffhanger of Unspoken I just HAD to start Untold straight away. WARNING: The cliffhanger to Untold is just as bad; seriously recommend having all 3 books before you start this series!
The evil sorcerer Rob Lynburn is back and eager to take over Sorry-in-the-Vale and bring back the old ways of sacrificing people to aid magic. Rob is now recruiting an army of sorcerer’s to overthrow his wife Lilian Lynburn and rule Aurimere Manor. The character’s are the biggest selling point of this series: Kami is as hilarious as ever, Jared as broody, Ash being insecure and Angela coming to terms with being a lesbian. Brennan managed to create a realistic view of being a teenager with different feelings and relationships.
Kami is still her humorous self and had me laughing with some of her best quotes..
“Been chatting much with Jared?"
"We often have special moments where I come into a room and he immediately leaves," Kami said. "I treasure those times.”
The love triangle takes on a whole new level now that Kami and Jared are no longer connected mentally and after the way he was at the end of Unspoken I needed to know how he really felt. The romance is filled with so much angst it’s frustrating but I secretly loved it especially when Jared & Holly do something ridiculously stupid, I was fuming! Annnnd after that silly lapse in judgment I now have to deal with Kami linked to Ash? What is happening!
Brennan’s writing has significantly improved since Unspoken, I was able to follow and enjoy the story. It was slow and a little predictable but still executed wonderfully, I just hoped for a more exciting plot. With that said after that cliffhanger I cannot wait to read Unmade.
Literary-ly Obsessed
September 4, 2013
"I can never describe the value you have to me, because all the words for value suggest that you belong to me, and you don't."
Once again I've found myself in a state where I think every problem can be overcome with witty comments, as can only happen after reading one of Brennan's books. Almost every issue had a silver lining that came in the form of sassy remarks to lighten the mood... up until about 90% of the way in and it was like, BANG no silver linings any more, you've had your fun now it's time to get serious and suck you in until you can get your hands on the next book.
I love these characters. I can see how other people wouldn't though, they all have very strong personalities and for the most part can be seen as very similar characteristically. They all have the same sense of humour however, as someone with the same sense of humour as everyone in these book, I thoroughly enjoy the banter and find myself highlighting so many quotes because they just make me smile so much. For example, when Ash sort-of said the wrong thing when discovering Angela and Holly's almost relationship and Kami was all gung-ho "Other people's sexuality is not your spectator sport." it suddenly goes from that to... "I'm picturing you and Jared. Naked. Entwined."
I love Kami. I've seen love for her and I've seen hate for her but honestly I think she is one of the strongest heroines I've ever read about. She is confident, ambitious and is so determined to save the town and the people that she cares about that she does everything in her power (and even things that weren't really in her power to do) to make sure that she does what is right by them. Although, from the moment you begin reading the book, you can almost taste the distance between Kami and Jared, I think that just helps the reader understand what exactly it was each of them lost, and why Kami had to do what she did at the end of book one. I think Kami tried to hide the loss so hard that at first it was hard to understand why Jared seemed to be suffering so much more but that just goes to show how strong a person Kami is. She lost her best friend, she lost her main support system but she puts it in the back of her head and tries to focus on how to keep everyone safe.
When Jared described the link like that it suddenly becomes clear why they were having so many miscommunication. Jared and Kami did not know how to properly communicate without the aid of their special bond and somehow that soothed the frustration I had at the beginning of the book when it was painfully lacking of the Jared I knew and loved from Unspoken. The whole way through I felt so awful for Ash, he was constantly walked all over and shitted on from the people he cared about most. I hate it when that happens to the characters that don't deserve it.Okay, maybe he deserved it a little considereing what happened in the first book but he's so damn cute I wish everyone would forgive him and he could be happy and not always drawing the short straw.
Despite everything, I'm giving this book 5 stars. Everyone has different ways to decide what a book is worth to them but I usually rate books purely on how much I enjoyed the book, whether it was lacking in some aspects or not. This book has so much to offer, strong characters, humour, romance, action however I did notice that there was a lack of plot when compared the the first book and that disappointed me a little. Even with the few revelations you'd think that more came out of them and would add to the plot. But they didn't. I'm desperately hoping they are reintroduced in the next book where something might just become of them and make the plot better than it was in this one. It picked up a little when the actual battle came around but during the lead up to the battle I found myself wondering how anything they were doing would actually help their cause, and that was confirmed when it was almost a complete bloodbath for their side. However there were some plot twists at the end that I never expected and I am hanging onto that cliff like there is no tomorrow. I can't wait for the next book.
I did notice, however that in the scene when they find Tommo in the closet, they get the name mixed up and call Tommo Ten a couple of times. Just an observation I noticed in my Kindle copy of the book.
Once again I've found myself in a state where I think every problem can be overcome with witty comments, as can only happen after reading one of Brennan's books. Almost every issue had a silver lining that came in the form of sassy remarks to lighten the mood... up until about 90% of the way in and it was like, BANG no silver linings any more, you've had your fun now it's time to get serious and suck you in until you can get your hands on the next book.
I love these characters. I can see how other people wouldn't though, they all have very strong personalities and for the most part can be seen as very similar characteristically. They all have the same sense of humour however, as someone with the same sense of humour as everyone in these book, I thoroughly enjoy the banter and find myself highlighting so many quotes because they just make me smile so much. For example, when Ash sort-of said the wrong thing when discovering Angela and Holly's almost relationship and Kami was all gung-ho "Other people's sexuality is not your spectator sport." it suddenly goes from that to... "I'm picturing you and Jared. Naked. Entwined."
I love Kami. I've seen love for her and I've seen hate for her but honestly I think she is one of the strongest heroines I've ever read about. She is confident, ambitious and is so determined to save the town and the people that she cares about that she does everything in her power (and even things that weren't really in her power to do) to make sure that she does what is right by them. Although, from the moment you begin reading the book, you can almost taste the distance between Kami and Jared, I think that just helps the reader understand what exactly it was each of them lost, and why Kami had to do what she did at the end of book one. I think Kami tried to hide the loss so hard that at first it was hard to understand why Jared seemed to be suffering so much more but that just goes to show how strong a person Kami is. She lost her best friend, she lost her main support system but she puts it in the back of her head and tries to focus on how to keep everyone safe.
"Every dark moment you ever had in your life. Every time you were a kid hidin under the covers convinced that nobody in the world existed, that it was just you and the nightmares. Every time you felt alone in the crowd, alone by yourself, forever and essentially alone, and don't pretend there weren't moments like that. Every time you felt worthless, every time you thought there was no purpose in existing, no center to the world and no peace to be found. I never had a single moment like that, I was never lonely a day in my life, until now. Now I feel like the world is hell, and hell is a place where souls of the damned can still see heaven. Because that's the worst thing of all. And yet I can't look away."
When Jared described the link like that it suddenly becomes clear why they were having so many miscommunication. Jared and Kami did not know how to properly communicate without the aid of their special bond and somehow that soothed the frustration I had at the beginning of the book when it was painfully lacking of the Jared I knew and loved from Unspoken. The whole way through I felt so awful for Ash, he was constantly walked all over and shitted on from the people he cared about most. I hate it when that happens to the characters that don't deserve it.
Despite everything, I'm giving this book 5 stars. Everyone has different ways to decide what a book is worth to them but I usually rate books purely on how much I enjoyed the book, whether it was lacking in some aspects or not. This book has so much to offer, strong characters, humour, romance, action however I did notice that there was a lack of plot when compared the the first book and that disappointed me a little. Even with the few revelations you'd think that more came out of them and would add to the plot. But they didn't. I'm desperately hoping they are reintroduced in the next book where something might just become of them and make the plot better than it was in this one. It picked up a little when the actual battle came around but during the lead up to the battle I found myself wondering how anything they were doing would actually help their cause, and that was confirmed when it was almost a complete bloodbath for their side. However there were some plot twists at the end that I never expected and I am hanging onto that cliff like there is no tomorrow. I can't wait for the next book.
September 3, 2014
I had really mixed feelings about Book 1 (Unspoken) in this series because I liked the concept. Sorry-in-the-Vale is a sleepy little town created so that sorcerers would have a safe place to draw power from the natural world and, in theory, have positive relationships with mundanes who could form pairings with them to serve as sources for more power in return for magical help and protection. And of course, eventually Voldemort (aka Rob Lynburn) comes along and thinks sorcerers are the master race and mundanes should bow to them, nasty blood magic gets involved, and good guys have to stop him. But while reading Book 1, I got pretty annoyed by how much of the plot hinged on really ridiculous failures to communicate. I stuck with the series because I thought that books 2 and 3 would have to develop the concept and would veer away from the contrived lack of communication because the romantic leads were already split up. But alas, no. If anything, Book 2 is more egregiously and unbelievably culpable of the same thing.
I think what baffles me the most (aside from the fact that Brennan is in a writers' group with several other extremely successful authors, none of whom seemed to help her address the issue of completely absurd conversations) is how a person who cares enough about words to be a writer in the first place thinks it's pleasurable to populate a book with characters who manage NEVER to ask the right question or impart the information that is clearly relevant to another party. Just one glaring example: When one character (Jared) does something like saving the other's (Kami's) life because he was quietly watching to protect her if she needed help, he then acts like it's nothing and she never suspects that there was some actual emotion involved. Or how about this:
Kami walks in on Jared and Holly potentially having had sex. Holly and Kami are friends. Holly knows Kami likes Jared, but Kami easily believes Holly would sleep with Jared anyway. Kami's best friend is in love with Holly. Not only does Holly fail to explain to Kami that she did not sleep with Jared, Jared also doesn't manage to convey this information to Kami, *and* Kami doesn't tell the best friend who is in love with Holly that Holly supposedly slept with Jared, which would theoretically have caused the best friend to make some attempt to find out whether it's true, and then relay back to Kami that it's not.
Try another one on for size -- Kami spends a third of the book not sure who she kissed in a dark room -- Jared or Ash -- because not only did she have no idea at the time (because all boys are the same height, smell the same, have the same texture and length hair, are equally inclined to randomly kiss girls in the dark with no warning or comment...), but she also can't/doesn't ask, and the person she kissed acts as though it never happened. If this sounds realistic to you, your life is strange. If a book FILLED with issues like this seems believable to you, I recommend speaking with a third party to determine whether you need medical assistance, more sleep, more maturity, and/or slightly more sober time.
Believe it or not, I like the story of this trilogy outside of the absurd relationship bungling. And, to be fair, Kami and Jared do eventually have a reasonable conversation at some point after the 200p mark, and things focus quite well after that. (Until the end of the book where he misunderstands her again and/or does not believe she would tell him the truth about her feelings despite loving him more than anything in the world.) By the end of the book, since things went far better in the latter half than at the top, I was in charity with it and planned to read Book 3, which is why I'm giving 3 stars instead of 2, here.
But here's the thing I find ultimately depressing about this series -- a thing which breaks my heart as a writer and as someone who wants to be a sympathetic reader. I think the tale doesn't benefit much from its teller. I think there are too many times when Brennan inserts herself into the natural and believable evolution of the relationships to prolong the narrative for the sake of filling a trilogy, and there are a number of explanations of things like why people can't get help or don't know what's going on that I find artless in the extreme.
I can see why lots of people read this series for very casual enjoyment, but School Library Journal positioned it as the natural successor to Maggie Stiefvater's Wolves of Mercy Falls, which I find not only inaccurate, but actually insulting to Ms. Stiefvater's elegant, sensitive, intelligent, artful creations. Oh, and another comparison that I think is not warranted is of her humor/wit to Joss Whedon's -- Whedon is way more sophisticated and sly. This trilogy is pure popcorn, complete with those bothersome unpopped kernals in the bottom of the bag and the sharp bits that can hurt your gums. If Brennan wants to write a book 4, that should totally be the title: Unpopped. ;)
I think what baffles me the most (aside from the fact that Brennan is in a writers' group with several other extremely successful authors, none of whom seemed to help her address the issue of completely absurd conversations) is how a person who cares enough about words to be a writer in the first place thinks it's pleasurable to populate a book with characters who manage NEVER to ask the right question or impart the information that is clearly relevant to another party. Just one glaring example: When one character (Jared) does something like saving the other's (Kami's) life because he was quietly watching to protect her if she needed help, he then acts like it's nothing and she never suspects that there was some actual emotion involved. Or how about this:
Kami walks in on Jared and Holly potentially having had sex. Holly and Kami are friends. Holly knows Kami likes Jared, but Kami easily believes Holly would sleep with Jared anyway. Kami's best friend is in love with Holly. Not only does Holly fail to explain to Kami that she did not sleep with Jared, Jared also doesn't manage to convey this information to Kami, *and* Kami doesn't tell the best friend who is in love with Holly that Holly supposedly slept with Jared, which would theoretically have caused the best friend to make some attempt to find out whether it's true, and then relay back to Kami that it's not.
Try another one on for size -- Kami spends a third of the book not sure who she kissed in a dark room -- Jared or Ash -- because not only did she have no idea at the time (because all boys are the same height, smell the same, have the same texture and length hair, are equally inclined to randomly kiss girls in the dark with no warning or comment...), but she also can't/doesn't ask, and the person she kissed acts as though it never happened. If this sounds realistic to you, your life is strange. If a book FILLED with issues like this seems believable to you, I recommend speaking with a third party to determine whether you need medical assistance, more sleep, more maturity, and/or slightly more sober time.
Believe it or not, I like the story of this trilogy outside of the absurd relationship bungling. And, to be fair, Kami and Jared do eventually have a reasonable conversation at some point after the 200p mark, and things focus quite well after that. (Until the end of the book where he misunderstands her again and/or does not believe she would tell him the truth about her feelings despite loving him more than anything in the world.) By the end of the book, since things went far better in the latter half than at the top, I was in charity with it and planned to read Book 3, which is why I'm giving 3 stars instead of 2, here.
But here's the thing I find ultimately depressing about this series -- a thing which breaks my heart as a writer and as someone who wants to be a sympathetic reader. I think the tale doesn't benefit much from its teller. I think there are too many times when Brennan inserts herself into the natural and believable evolution of the relationships to prolong the narrative for the sake of filling a trilogy, and there are a number of explanations of things like why people can't get help or don't know what's going on that I find artless in the extreme.
I can see why lots of people read this series for very casual enjoyment, but School Library Journal positioned it as the natural successor to Maggie Stiefvater's Wolves of Mercy Falls, which I find not only inaccurate, but actually insulting to Ms. Stiefvater's elegant, sensitive, intelligent, artful creations. Oh, and another comparison that I think is not warranted is of her humor/wit to Joss Whedon's -- Whedon is way more sophisticated and sly. This trilogy is pure popcorn, complete with those bothersome unpopped kernals in the bottom of the bag and the sharp bits that can hurt your gums. If Brennan wants to write a book 4, that should totally be the title: Unpopped. ;)
August 4, 2015
2.5 Stars
I was so excited to read Untold. Unspoken left a huge impression on me and It is great in the sense of it-is-so-addicting-i-gotta-have-book-two-now.
Untold follow up right after everyone’s near death experience & Rob’s rebellion. The war is coming and everyone is preparing for the terrible outcome and with Kami & Jared’s broken link, everything is bound to be more perilous.
When I started reading Untold, I hoped for a plausible and a great follow up book. I really did. The plot didn’t pick up till at 30%. It was slow and a little bit agonizing but I was still hoping for the best. The usual Sarah Rees Brennan humor was there but it doesn’t hold the same effect that I felt for Unspoken. Something is a little bit off as it seemed forced and not natural anymore. The sassy dialogue between the characters can be quite hilarious at some point but half of the time it was meh and I found myself cringing.
I expected there would be character development for everyone but I saw none. I couldn’t connect to them at all and looking back at Unspoken that makes me sad. I felt a strong connection with this batch of characters and I was highly anticipating Untold wiould strengthen this bond. Now I find myself sighing in disappointment.
Probably by now you are asking yourself “Why am I even reading this, there is no purpose?”. Oh you just wait child. While I felt the book dragged on so much, there was occasional moments of brilliance that you might find delightful like the sexual tension between Jared & Kami radiating with heat. It’s so tense. However by the half of the book I wasn’t engrossed in their relationship anymore. The ending made me numb not in a good way but in the category of I am so glad I’m done with you. HALLELUJAH!
Overall Untold was a frustrating and yet good read. I can only hope Brennan will do her magic in the next installment. If you love a dark book with constant sexual frustration and dry humor you will enjoy this book.
You can also read my full review on YAH.
I was so excited to read Untold. Unspoken left a huge impression on me and It is great in the sense of it-is-so-addicting-i-gotta-have-book-two-now.
Untold follow up right after everyone’s near death experience & Rob’s rebellion. The war is coming and everyone is preparing for the terrible outcome and with Kami & Jared’s broken link, everything is bound to be more perilous.
When I started reading Untold, I hoped for a plausible and a great follow up book. I really did. The plot didn’t pick up till at 30%. It was slow and a little bit agonizing but I was still hoping for the best. The usual Sarah Rees Brennan humor was there but it doesn’t hold the same effect that I felt for Unspoken. Something is a little bit off as it seemed forced and not natural anymore. The sassy dialogue between the characters can be quite hilarious at some point but half of the time it was meh and I found myself cringing.
I expected there would be character development for everyone but I saw none. I couldn’t connect to them at all and looking back at Unspoken that makes me sad. I felt a strong connection with this batch of characters and I was highly anticipating Untold wiould strengthen this bond. Now I find myself sighing in disappointment.
Probably by now you are asking yourself “Why am I even reading this, there is no purpose?”. Oh you just wait child. While I felt the book dragged on so much, there was occasional moments of brilliance that you might find delightful like the sexual tension between Jared & Kami radiating with heat. It’s so tense. However by the half of the book I wasn’t engrossed in their relationship anymore. The ending made me numb not in a good way but in the category of I am so glad I’m done with you. HALLELUJAH!
Overall Untold was a frustrating and yet good read. I can only hope Brennan will do her magic in the next installment. If you love a dark book with constant sexual frustration and dry humor you will enjoy this book.
You can also read my full review on YAH.
May 21, 2015
4.5 solid stars
I really enjoyed Unspoken, but I really, inexplicably loved this one.
The keyword: Angst.
Oh, but don't worry, it's well worth it.
The characters: the piece de resistance of this series. I mean, they are simply fantastic!
• Kami: she confirmed she is a strong, although utterly atypical heroine. I love her.
“She had worried that she would break if her heart broke, but she wasn't broken. she had lost everything, but she was not lost. It seemed a worthwhile thing to know.”
• Jared: well... Jared is Jared. You know, he is an idiot. An incorrigible, reckless (often brainless), baffled idiot with suicidal intents. More then once I was about to strangle him... but Brennan made me change my mind. Even if in this book Jared's POVs are fewer, even if the link is now broken, the Author really made me understand what Jared felt.
• IMO, the added value was provided by Rusty ("Don't fight, boys," he remarked mildly. "There's plenty of Rusty to go around.”) and Jon (aka Kami's dad ~ "Lucinda, Lana, Lulubelle"). I could know them better in this second book, and I must admit I've never laughed so much!
(• Holly: she is the only one that didn't impress me at all... hope she will make it up.)
The feels: Too many feels!
The ending: No words.
I really enjoyed Unspoken, but I really, inexplicably loved this one.
The keyword: Angst.
Oh, but don't worry, it's well worth it.
The characters: the piece de resistance of this series. I mean, they are simply fantastic!
• Kami: she confirmed she is a strong, although utterly atypical heroine. I love her.
“She had worried that she would break if her heart broke, but she wasn't broken. she had lost everything, but she was not lost. It seemed a worthwhile thing to know.”
• Jared: well... Jared is Jared. You know, he is an idiot. An incorrigible, reckless (often brainless), baffled idiot with suicidal intents. More then once I was about to strangle him... but Brennan made me change my mind. Even if in this book Jared's POVs are fewer, even if the link is now broken, the Author really made me understand what Jared felt.
• IMO, the added value was provided by Rusty ("Don't fight, boys," he remarked mildly. "There's plenty of Rusty to go around.”) and Jon (aka Kami's dad ~ "Lucinda, Lana, Lulubelle"). I could know them better in this second book, and I must admit I've never laughed so much!
(• Holly: she is the only one that didn't impress me at all... hope she will make it up.)
The feels: Too many feels!
The ending: No words.
Shelved as 'must-read-before-july-2014'
December 6, 2013I've just read the snippet and ...
http://sarahtales.livejournal.com/204...
http://sarahtales.livejournal.com/204...
August 3, 2016
At this point, a bajillion books/school assignments/a few months after reading Untold, I'm not up for writing a review on the finer plot/character/whathaveyou points. I'm really really not. It actually feels like I need to re-read it and that makes me feel kinda pathetic, not that I'm objecting to a re-read. But I must say that the first time reading this will forever be the best time.
Because of being stuck in a ridiculously cramped and loud mini-van, sneaking in chapters of Untold with my sister. There was flailing and crying, mild hyperventlation and breaks so WE COULD BREATHE, DAMMIT.
Because of the opening scene that left me scared witless.
Because of the LEATHER JACKET SCENE. HOLY CRAP ON A CRACKER.
Not because of
Because of Sassy Lillian.
Because of the special brand of Sarah humor I can't get enough of.
Because of heartwrenching conversations between my babies.
Because of the Pool scene.
Because of that feels inducing, life ruiner ending.
October 27, 2013
4/25/2013
OH MY GOD ITS GOT A COVER. LOOK AT THAT BITCH. STANDING WITH THE MOTHER FUCKING TREES BESIDE HER. IT'S LIKE SHE'S WALKING INTO A BRIGHT LIGHT. DON'T YOU GO WALKING INTO ANY LIGHTS NOW UNLESS YOUR WALKING INTO SOMEONE ELSE LIGHT AND BY SOMEONE ELSE'S I MEAN JARED'S AND BY JARED'S I MEAN GOD DAMN YOU TWO TOTALLY HAVE FEELINGS FOR EACH OTHER NOW GO SMOOCH.
4/13/2013
I am sorry. But with that cliffhanger it has now become a challenge for the OTP to be Jared. The snippets have Kami/Ash and Kami/Rusty. BUT YA KNOW WHAT. NO. NO NONONONONONONONONONO NO. JARED AND KAMI. OTP. I DON'T CARE ABOUT ANYONE ELSE. HAVE HOLLY GO FOR ANGELA AND THEN IDK ASH AND RUSTY? BUT JAMI HAS TO BE TOGETHER. OR I'M GONNA DIE.
OH MY GOD ITS GOT A COVER. LOOK AT THAT BITCH. STANDING WITH THE MOTHER FUCKING TREES BESIDE HER. IT'S LIKE SHE'S WALKING INTO A BRIGHT LIGHT. DON'T YOU GO WALKING INTO ANY LIGHTS NOW UNLESS YOUR WALKING INTO SOMEONE ELSE LIGHT AND BY SOMEONE ELSE'S I MEAN JARED'S AND BY JARED'S I MEAN GOD DAMN YOU TWO TOTALLY HAVE FEELINGS FOR EACH OTHER NOW GO SMOOCH.
4/13/2013
I am sorry. But with that cliffhanger it has now become a challenge for the OTP to be Jared. The snippets have Kami/Ash and Kami/Rusty. BUT YA KNOW WHAT. NO. NO NONONONONONONONONONO NO. JARED AND KAMI. OTP. I DON'T CARE ABOUT ANYONE ELSE. HAVE HOLLY GO FOR ANGELA AND THEN IDK ASH AND RUSTY? BUT JAMI HAS TO BE TOGETHER. OR I'M GONNA DIE.
Shelved as '50-50'
February 23, 2014
MY HANDS ARE LITERALLY ITCHING.
June 9, 2023
I really really like this story
January 29, 2017
This would have been an awesome tv show.
Freeform or CW should pick it up.
Anyway, I thought I enjoyed this one more than the first book. My only complaint is the fact that the romance overshadows the supernatural/paranormal aspect of the book. Besides that, I enjoyed reading this book. I loved the writing! I hope Sarah Rees Brennan considers writing contemporary novels!
3.75/5
Freeform or CW should pick it up.
Anyway, I thought I enjoyed this one more than the first book. My only complaint is the fact that the romance overshadows the supernatural/paranormal aspect of the book. Besides that, I enjoyed reading this book. I loved the writing! I hope Sarah Rees Brennan considers writing contemporary novels!
3.75/5
October 3, 2013
Let me make this clear, in case you didn't already know: I am strange. So, naturally, I should love strange books. So -- even more naturally -- Sorry-in-the-Vale and all of its inhabitants should draw my heart like a moth to a flame and make me giggle like the crazy fangirl I am.
And it does, it absolutely does.
It's almost silly how much I missed Sorry-in-the-Vale, the small, mysterious, magical, and strange (there's that word again!) town that The Lynburn Legacy trilogy is set in. But what I missed most were definitely the characters and the way they acted around each other; the way they spoke like it was impossible to NOT be sarcastic; the way they were a team without being a team (if you know what this crazy girl means).
Kami is back in all her curious-journalist tendencies as one of my favourite protagonists of all time! She's no classic martyr heroine who acts stupid all the time and incites smack-your-head reactions from readers; she is intelligent, and hilarious, and fun, and just freaking FANTASTIC. If I could pick any book character as a best friend, she would definitely be near the top of the list!
Her I-hate-everyone BFF Angela is as hatefully charming as ever; Angela's brother, Rusty, hits on Kami like crazy and is just overall book-candy-fun; Ash (one of the Lynburns who I always, for some ridiculous reason, picture as the Pokemon character) is sort of wimpy in my opinion but adorably sweet nonetheless. But Jared -- bad boy, gloomy, ridiculously stubborn Jared -- was definitely my root-all-end-all. He's pinch-your-cheeks-adorable without trying and laugh-out-loud hilarious when he's serious. If Kami doesn't end up with him in the end, I WILL throw a riot.
Do you hear that, Sarah Rees Brennan?????
P.S. I love you. :')
In conclusion? If you love snark, sarcastic comments, and total grin-worthy moments that make you creep out anyone who's around while you read, then this book is absolutely for you! I loved Untold almost as much as I loved the first book, and if you asked me if I already pre-ordered the last part of the trilogy, I will shamelessly say that I did. ;)
BUY or BORROW?: Please, please, please join my Club of Strange and be an owner of this amazing book with me! I seriously grin every time I pass by it while simultaneously crying about the long wait for the next installment. Did I answer the question? I think so.
xoxo
Mimi ♥
And it does, it absolutely does.
It's almost silly how much I missed Sorry-in-the-Vale, the small, mysterious, magical, and strange (there's that word again!) town that The Lynburn Legacy trilogy is set in. But what I missed most were definitely the characters and the way they acted around each other; the way they spoke like it was impossible to NOT be sarcastic; the way they were a team without being a team (if you know what this crazy girl means).
Kami is back in all her curious-journalist tendencies as one of my favourite protagonists of all time! She's no classic martyr heroine who acts stupid all the time and incites smack-your-head reactions from readers; she is intelligent, and hilarious, and fun, and just freaking FANTASTIC. If I could pick any book character as a best friend, she would definitely be near the top of the list!
Her I-hate-everyone BFF Angela is as hatefully charming as ever; Angela's brother, Rusty, hits on Kami like crazy and is just overall book-candy-fun; Ash (one of the Lynburns who I always, for some ridiculous reason, picture as the Pokemon character) is sort of wimpy in my opinion but adorably sweet nonetheless. But Jared -- bad boy, gloomy, ridiculously stubborn Jared -- was definitely my root-all-end-all. He's pinch-your-cheeks-adorable without trying and laugh-out-loud hilarious when he's serious. If Kami doesn't end up with him in the end, I WILL throw a riot.
Do you hear that, Sarah Rees Brennan?????
P.S. I love you. :')
In conclusion? If you love snark, sarcastic comments, and total grin-worthy moments that make you creep out anyone who's around while you read, then this book is absolutely for you! I loved Untold almost as much as I loved the first book, and if you asked me if I already pre-ordered the last part of the trilogy, I will shamelessly say that I did. ;)
BUY or BORROW?: Please, please, please join my Club of Strange and be an owner of this amazing book with me! I seriously grin every time I pass by it while simultaneously crying about the long wait for the next installment. Did I answer the question? I think so.
xoxo
Mimi ♥
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