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Grimm Tales #1
A Grimm Legacy
Enchanted castles and charming princes thought to exist only in stories come to life in this classically twisted fairy tale that combines the timeless quality of generations old folktales with the challenges of the modern world.
The woods of Elorium appear ordinary to Andi Grace, until birds start talking and elves answer doors. Along with three others, Andi has been whisked out of her world and finds herself the reluctant guest of the perplexing millionaire, Mr. Jackson—a stranger willing to help get them home, but who’s keeping secrets of his own.
Discovering unexpected family connections to this fairy tale land, the group must rely on each other as they dodge evil fairies and battle giants, intent on keeping them in Elorium.
Faced with characters short on whimsy and bent towards treachery, Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan are forced into fairy tale roles to find the way home. But in Elorium, happily ever after is never guaranteed.
The woods of Elorium appear ordinary to Andi Grace, until birds start talking and elves answer doors. Along with three others, Andi has been whisked out of her world and finds herself the reluctant guest of the perplexing millionaire, Mr. Jackson—a stranger willing to help get them home, but who’s keeping secrets of his own.
Discovering unexpected family connections to this fairy tale land, the group must rely on each other as they dodge evil fairies and battle giants, intent on keeping them in Elorium.
Faced with characters short on whimsy and bent towards treachery, Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan are forced into fairy tale roles to find the way home. But in Elorium, happily ever after is never guaranteed.
249 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2013
About the author
Janna Jennings
8 books58 followersJanna is a Colorado based YA author who loves a good fairy tale. She’s married to her own real life Prince Charming, and will usually admit to being mom of three, including her incorrigible middle child, Benny. Besides wrangling her kids she can be found doing some therapeutic baking, dreaming of the ocean, and of course, curling up with a good book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 17, 2013
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This looked really cool, but the reality of it wasn't all that impressive.
It would probably be ok for younger children (middle-grade readers), but it definitely won't hold the attention of teens or adults.
The story was sort of all over the place, and I had a hard time getting interested enough in the characters to want to keep reading.
I'm also going to go ahead and assume that I read an ARC, even though it wasn't labeled as one. That way I don't have to complain about all of the jacked up grammatical mistakes.
Yeah, yeah. I know I'm not exactly the Grammar Girl. But I'm also not charging you $9.99 to read my crap review, either. So there!
I'm sorry, but I can't recommend this.
If you're looking for something to introduce children to fairytales, there's a lot of better stuff out there.
If you're a fan of retellings, there's a lot of better stuff out there.
If you've read everything else, and your head will literally explode (perhaps because you have some weird hi-tech collar around you neck that was installed by an evil fairy) unless you read something with Grimm in the title? Then by all means, check this one out.
This looked really cool, but the reality of it wasn't all that impressive.
It would probably be ok for younger children (middle-grade readers), but it definitely won't hold the attention of teens or adults.
The story was sort of all over the place, and I had a hard time getting interested enough in the characters to want to keep reading.
I'm also going to go ahead and assume that I read an ARC, even though it wasn't labeled as one. That way I don't have to complain about all of the jacked up grammatical mistakes.
Yeah, yeah. I know I'm not exactly the Grammar Girl. But I'm also not charging you $9.99 to read my crap review, either. So there!
I'm sorry, but I can't recommend this.
If you're looking for something to introduce children to fairytales, there's a lot of better stuff out there.
If you're a fan of retellings, there's a lot of better stuff out there.
If you've read everything else, and your head will literally explode (perhaps because you have some weird hi-tech collar around you neck that was installed by an evil fairy) unless you read something with Grimm in the title? Then by all means, check this one out.
October 31, 2014
3.5 stars
Arc provided by Patchwork Press through Netgalley
Yes, here's another fairy tale retelling review.
As you can see, or better yet "read", it seems I can't get enough of them.
The idea to place contemporary teenage characters in a fairy tale scenario was extremely well done, which lead to this interesting adventure through quite a few of Grimm Fairy Tales.
Plot wise, let me tell you that this one could merit a 4 to a 4.5 stars!!
The plot is truly creative, and I never had an idea to where it was going!
It was truly a pleasure to see how the author was able to converge the initial characters points of views (four), into a strong and cohesive plot.
The characters were extremely appealing, and interesting enough to follow. In fact, all of them could steal the leading character role.
Negative points:
This e-book is less than pristine when it comes to the editing department... maybe due to the fact of this being an arc?
I really hope that's the reason why...
There are quite a number of missing words, strange punctuation, and at the beginning of each chapter we are thrown a little off route by an initial sentence that ends up being the chapter's title...
Something that I can't avoid mentioning, are the dialogue tags (or speech tags), _e.g.: he talked, she answered, he walked_ that, for me felt somewhat abused.
Also I can't help feeling, that the tale would have been much stronger if Andy's leading character role had been shared with Quinn.
It's not that I disliked Andy. On the contrary. She is a smart and intelligent character.
But the way Quinn was presented at the beginning of the story lead me to expect much more of her character!
In fact I commented with my co-blogger, that I was expecting Quinn to have Maya's ( a character from Kelley Armstrong ya series) charisma and strength!
She climbs mountains, saves boys from tree tops and she isn't white... she felt original!
She could have, better yet, she should have shared "the leading character role" with Andy!!
That way, we wouldn't feel a sort of "division" between those two: the one that mostly does the rescues, by opposition with the one that ends up being rescued all the time.
And the thing is, due to their initial characterization, I couldn't help feeling that Quinn's would be the leading character, not Andy.
This book definitely needed more girl power!! And those two had everything on their side to be a sure win.
Also, the action scenes were well done, but they could and should, have been inter-spaced with a more consistent character development... I wanted to "feel" the characters bonding with each other! Let's not forget that in the beginning of the story they were all strangers to each other...
This could have been achieved with more instances of dialogue between the four main characters. Relevant ones.
Also, more informations regarding the lives they used to have would further enrich the tale.
Then I don't know if this is some sort of requisite to write a YA novel:
Romances (although in this story,they are more of the budding romances "variety").
They _yes, as in plural _ are hinted at in this story, _sometimes more than that _ but honestly there isn't the necessary and fundamental character development to explain why they needed to exist in this one!
Then there was the occasional jealous behaviour from almost all the characters, that felt somewhat displaced between individuals that up until a few days ago had never even heard of one another!
Four teenagers who suddenly find themselves in another reality, where fairy tales are real, and where they supposedly are meant to play a part, should have bigger concerns than "having" to fall in love.
On the positive side:
Well, besides the very strong and imaginative plot, dynamic characters, and fluid writing. I liked how the author fought the commonly accepted ideas that fairy tales are supposed to always have a happy ending.
Oh, and can I just say how happy I was when I realized that psychotic and obsessive behaviours weren't going to be glorified in this story??
Thank you!! :)
Let's just say that the only perfect thing that the Prince of this story has, is that he's a perfect example of guys girls should just run from!!
Bottom Line: Very promising story and series. I only hope that the grammatical issues I mentioned in this review, won't appear on the second volume.
Arc provided by Patchwork Press through Netgalley
Yes, here's another fairy tale retelling review.
As you can see, or better yet "read", it seems I can't get enough of them.
The idea to place contemporary teenage characters in a fairy tale scenario was extremely well done, which lead to this interesting adventure through quite a few of Grimm Fairy Tales.
Plot wise, let me tell you that this one could merit a 4 to a 4.5 stars!!
The plot is truly creative, and I never had an idea to where it was going!
It was truly a pleasure to see how the author was able to converge the initial characters points of views (four), into a strong and cohesive plot.
The characters were extremely appealing, and interesting enough to follow. In fact, all of them could steal the leading character role.
Negative points:
This e-book is less than pristine when it comes to the editing department... maybe due to the fact of this being an arc?
I really hope that's the reason why...
There are quite a number of missing words, strange punctuation, and at the beginning of each chapter we are thrown a little off route by an initial sentence that ends up being the chapter's title...
Something that I can't avoid mentioning, are the dialogue tags (or speech tags), _e.g.: he talked, she answered, he walked_ that, for me felt somewhat abused.
Also I can't help feeling, that the tale would have been much stronger if Andy's leading character role had been shared with Quinn.
It's not that I disliked Andy. On the contrary. She is a smart and intelligent character.
But the way Quinn was presented at the beginning of the story lead me to expect much more of her character!
In fact I commented with my co-blogger, that I was expecting Quinn to have Maya's ( a character from Kelley Armstrong ya series) charisma and strength!
She climbs mountains, saves boys from tree tops and she isn't white... she felt original!
She could have, better yet, she should have shared "the leading character role" with Andy!!
That way, we wouldn't feel a sort of "division" between those two: the one that mostly does the rescues, by opposition with the one that ends up being rescued all the time.
And the thing is, due to their initial characterization, I couldn't help feeling that Quinn's would be the leading character, not Andy.
This book definitely needed more girl power!! And those two had everything on their side to be a sure win.
Also, the action scenes were well done, but they could and should, have been inter-spaced with a more consistent character development... I wanted to "feel" the characters bonding with each other! Let's not forget that in the beginning of the story they were all strangers to each other...
This could have been achieved with more instances of dialogue between the four main characters. Relevant ones.
Also, more informations regarding the lives they used to have would further enrich the tale.
Then I don't know if this is some sort of requisite to write a YA novel:
Romances (although in this story,they are more of the budding romances "variety").
They _yes, as in plural _ are hinted at in this story, _sometimes more than that _ but honestly there isn't the necessary and fundamental character development to explain why they needed to exist in this one!
Then there was the occasional jealous behaviour from almost all the characters, that felt somewhat displaced between individuals that up until a few days ago had never even heard of one another!
Four teenagers who suddenly find themselves in another reality, where fairy tales are real, and where they supposedly are meant to play a part, should have bigger concerns than "having" to fall in love.
On the positive side:
Well, besides the very strong and imaginative plot, dynamic characters, and fluid writing. I liked how the author fought the commonly accepted ideas that fairy tales are supposed to always have a happy ending.
Oh, and can I just say how happy I was when I realized that psychotic and obsessive behaviours weren't going to be glorified in this story??
Thank you!! :)
Let's just say that the only perfect thing that the Prince of this story has, is that he's a perfect example of guys girls should just run from!!
Bottom Line: Very promising story and series. I only hope that the grammatical issues I mentioned in this review, won't appear on the second volume.
November 15, 2013
Writing: I have no idea if I got an unedited copy or what, but the writing was terrible. I don't mean like a low level or something, no, it was totally and utterly confusing. Many words which should have been plural, or agreed with the rest of the sentence did not. Not only that, but often times it felt like an entire paragraph was missing from the story. And then, to go on top of all of that, the punctuation was off, and sometimes so was the formatting. This made it a very confusing read in itself, but then at the beginning of every chapter there would be a line from later on in the chapter as the first line of the chapter. For example:
Chapter 34
"I'm a girl of many hidden talents. Keeping myself out of trouble is not one of them."
Andi stepped into a quiet clearing. Overgrown grass and wild roses blanketed the area, running right up to the base of the tower and entwining themselves into the architecture.
And then a ton of the chapter until, low and behold:
"Not willingly." Quinn clasped her hands together as she sat back. "But I couldn't imagine how you were going to find me. At first I didn't have any clue who took me. How could you?"
"I'm a girl of many hidden talents." She gestured to her filthy, damp clothes. "Keeping myself out of trouble is not one of them."
And then just because I feel like adding it, bad grammar!
"How am I always the one turned into a bird or stolen by giants?" Quinn scowled.
Oh, and here's some more! This is where it feels like a paragraph is missing or something:
"I've been heavily involved in ensuring the kingdom's future." She laughed lightly, an acidic undercurrent to her words. "The realm doesn't run itself, after all."
Andi didn't like where this was going.
Prince Wilhelm had been spinning her around the dance floor for the last hour, while his mother tracked them with a concentrated look, and Andi was getting nervous. She hadn't seen Dylan or Quinn for sometime. Fredrick still kept within her line of vision, which was odd considering he'd been glued to Quinn all evening. It was getting late and Andi felt she should be making her Cinderella-exit soon. She never did get a chance to read the story in her grandmother's book. Without the mice and the fairy godmother, was the magic still going to wear off at midnight?
When Fredrick surreptitiously shook his head at her, his face worried, her stomach dropped. Something was wrong.
WHAT????? Did that not confuse you? Because all those paragraphs were together in the book, but I felt like whole other paragraphs were missing. They don't even connect together!!
Want to read more? Visit www.woodbtwntheworlds.blogspot.com
March 31, 2015
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
I don't have too much to say about A Grimm Legacy. I finished the book a few weeks ago (I know it, I'm horribly behind on my reviewing) and frankly - but unsurprisingly - my eReader did yet another reboot deleting all my notes.
Which brings me immediately to the biggest problem with the book. The story is quite forgettable. I remember some of the details but the story itself is a bit of blur. Not that it was that much better immediately after reading.
What I really liked was the fact it tries to interweave well known and lesser known (at least in my region) fairy tales in to one story. I suppose they are all Grimm tales, though I wouldn't know enough about that to check it. The only problem is that the execution of this idea doesn't really work. It results in some fairy tales being really glanced over while others receive almost half the book. It never really worked for me.
I was also wondering about the world. Almost every fairy tale has his/her own prince/evil queen et cetera. How can they all live in peace together? The characters are all quite interchangeable except for one girl who gets kidnapped all the time.
I didn't really plan on continuing the series, although I normally like fairy tales with a twist I saw that this one wasn't really for me, but I already had an ARC for the next book in this series, so I read that one as well. (Review to come)
A Grimm Legacy is the first book in the Grimm Tales series. The second book is Grimm Memories.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I don't have too much to say about A Grimm Legacy. I finished the book a few weeks ago (I know it, I'm horribly behind on my reviewing) and frankly - but unsurprisingly - my eReader did yet another reboot deleting all my notes.
Which brings me immediately to the biggest problem with the book. The story is quite forgettable. I remember some of the details but the story itself is a bit of blur. Not that it was that much better immediately after reading.
What I really liked was the fact it tries to interweave well known and lesser known (at least in my region) fairy tales in to one story. I suppose they are all Grimm tales, though I wouldn't know enough about that to check it. The only problem is that the execution of this idea doesn't really work. It results in some fairy tales being really glanced over while others receive almost half the book. It never really worked for me.
I was also wondering about the world. Almost every fairy tale has his/her own prince/evil queen et cetera. How can they all live in peace together? The characters are all quite interchangeable except for one girl who gets kidnapped all the time.
I didn't really plan on continuing the series, although I normally like fairy tales with a twist I saw that this one wasn't really for me, but I already had an ARC for the next book in this series, so I read that one as well. (Review to come)
A Grimm Legacy is the first book in the Grimm Tales series. The second book is Grimm Memories.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
March 3, 2015
I received this from Netgalley for an honest review:)
So if I ever wrote a non-review, I think it would be this one. I liked the idea of this story more than the actual story and I felt like I read a lot of description. Or maybe not read, more like skimmed. This book has promise, though. There were parts that made me laugh and other parts that just felt blah.
I have the second as well and I'm going to read it.
So if I ever wrote a non-review, I think it would be this one. I liked the idea of this story more than the actual story and I felt like I read a lot of description. Or maybe not read, more like skimmed. This book has promise, though. There were parts that made me laugh and other parts that just felt blah.
I have the second as well and I'm going to read it.
February 12, 2015
Recommend: Middle grade, but there are much better fairytale themed novels out there.
Damn it. I wanted to love it. It’s fairytale themed which is one of my favourite genres. The cover is beautiful and magical, and the blurb caught my attention.
I really had to reign in the editor in me here. I found a lot of issues, even for a review copy. Before I get into it, I don’t take pleasure in disliking a novel and I bet the author is a lovely person. Right. Now for my highlights:
It didn’t take many pages for me to feel confused. The story whips by too quickly to really appreciate what’s going on. I didn’t care for the characters because there were too many and they were too busy with the constant new turmoil to have personality. I never thought a book could be too fast-paced, but this leaves out depth and tells way too much – because there isn’t time to show.
Ultimately, the confusion did it for me. I had to keep rereading. Vague sentences, emphasis in the wrong place, and just not enough to grip me personally.
The novel starts with four introductory chapters. Four. Each chapter recalls the four main characters’ lives the moment before they disappear. Alone, each story is interesting and ends in a mysterious way. But combined, I felt like I had just read the first chapters of four rather repetitive stories. I had done a substantial bit of reading but hadn’t had a chance to connect with any of the characters. I wouldn’t recommend using this structure in a novel.
I could have forgiven the choppy, four-prologues-long introduction and inevitable overuse of proper nouns in the prose if some sort of explanation was provided when the four finally meet. Instead, there’s an elf saying he has to take them to his master... eventually. The teenagers proceed to make themselves at home with no further description of where they are or what’s happening. They steal a car, crash, get frozen and turned into birds all within a few minutes of reading.
It felt like I was reading someone’s dream, where bizarre things can happen and events can leap forward with no back-links. I started to feel like I was losing the plot...
Similar to life, the loud characters are easier to remember. This meant that Andi was memorable whereas the rest blurred into a category that I fittingly named ‘the rest’. It’s not just that there were lots of characters, it’s that there were too many main characters with very different lives but not significantly interesting personalities or any defining characteristic.
And why must Quinn always be the one to get kidnapped? Is it because she clogs up the already named-packed narrative? Apart from adding some Indian heritage to this novel, she became a bland side character. I hope she becomes more defined in book 2 because she started so strong! And I did enjoy the fact she was a diverse character. The Brothers Grimm were German after all – it makes no sense for every character to be a white American other than the lack of diversity we see in the media (go Quinn!). Unfortunately, she was probably the least necessary of the four, and the book might have been easier to follow and connect with had she been dropped.
Around 50% in, and fed up of garden path sentences, I decided this book didn’t make much sense. If I regressed every time something was vague, confusing, illogical, or jumped around, then I would have never finished it.
So I changed tactic.
I used what I will now dub ‘the thick skimming technique’, where I kept moving forwards at a brisk pace whether it made sense or not, which is what the writing style tended to do on its own. If you’re a fast and light reader, then perhaps you’ll find this book very fitting. Its strength is definitely the pace.
In this fairy tale realm, I found the references to brands a bit distracting. Chanel. Louis Vuitton handbags. They even had cell phones. How? Why? How much contact with the regular world does Elorium have? It’s an unanswered mystery, and raises more questions than it answers.
Sometimes the plot did have obvious holes in it. Instead of stitching them up, we’re told in a clunky fashion that ‘but you can’t do that’. The author notices there’s a potential flaw and essentially tells the reader ‘no, that would ruin my plot’. I shrugged and got on with the story, but as I said before, it’s easier to skim this book than read it.
I hate the phrase ‘show don’t tell’ because it’s so vague and not always correctly used. But the connection between the four teenagers is forced. They only know each other for a few measly seconds before they’re familiar and know what is and isn’t ‘characteristic’ of the other. I didn’t know it wasn’t characteristic because I haven’t really met Fredrick yet.
And modifiers! Description should be more than just nouns and verbs with adjectives and adverbs in front of them. Most could be scrapped to no ill effect. ‘Exaggerated overreaction’ was a particular low point. If it’s an overreaction, we gather that it’s exaggerated.
The language often took odd turns. For a middle grade book, words like ‘perturbed’ and ‘unperturbed’ felt out of place (yes, both were mentioned and rather close together), especially as the rest of the lexis was simple. Lots of information was either ‘forthcoming’ or ‘no other information was forthcoming’. It felt like a robotic way of stating something that didn’t need to be said.
A Grimm Legacy did have redeeming qualities. I didn’t feel bored because, although sometimes I lost the plot, it moved on so quickly that I could pick it back up again for the next surprising event. The author must be a very creative spirit. It’s fast paced and entertaining at the very least. I also thought the chapter titles were clever. Strange quotes from the narrative were picked out which intrigued me to read on as well as showed the quirks of the novel. I enjoyed the quirkiness (where it worked). If only it worked more.
Essentially, I didn’t connect with it at all. I’ve read better novels sentenced around fairy tales. It’s awkward and a bit confusing, but mildly entertaining. I enjoyed skimming it more than reading it. I’m glad I didn’t request the sequel!
Source: NetGalley.com
Blog:ScookieReviews
Damn it. I wanted to love it. It’s fairytale themed which is one of my favourite genres. The cover is beautiful and magical, and the blurb caught my attention.
I really had to reign in the editor in me here. I found a lot of issues, even for a review copy. Before I get into it, I don’t take pleasure in disliking a novel and I bet the author is a lovely person. Right. Now for my highlights:
It didn’t take many pages for me to feel confused. The story whips by too quickly to really appreciate what’s going on. I didn’t care for the characters because there were too many and they were too busy with the constant new turmoil to have personality. I never thought a book could be too fast-paced, but this leaves out depth and tells way too much – because there isn’t time to show.
Ultimately, the confusion did it for me. I had to keep rereading. Vague sentences, emphasis in the wrong place, and just not enough to grip me personally.
The novel starts with four introductory chapters. Four. Each chapter recalls the four main characters’ lives the moment before they disappear. Alone, each story is interesting and ends in a mysterious way. But combined, I felt like I had just read the first chapters of four rather repetitive stories. I had done a substantial bit of reading but hadn’t had a chance to connect with any of the characters. I wouldn’t recommend using this structure in a novel.
I could have forgiven the choppy, four-prologues-long introduction and inevitable overuse of proper nouns in the prose if some sort of explanation was provided when the four finally meet. Instead, there’s an elf saying he has to take them to his master... eventually. The teenagers proceed to make themselves at home with no further description of where they are or what’s happening. They steal a car, crash, get frozen and turned into birds all within a few minutes of reading.
It felt like I was reading someone’s dream, where bizarre things can happen and events can leap forward with no back-links. I started to feel like I was losing the plot...
Similar to life, the loud characters are easier to remember. This meant that Andi was memorable whereas the rest blurred into a category that I fittingly named ‘the rest’. It’s not just that there were lots of characters, it’s that there were too many main characters with very different lives but not significantly interesting personalities or any defining characteristic.
And why must Quinn always be the one to get kidnapped? Is it because she clogs up the already named-packed narrative? Apart from adding some Indian heritage to this novel, she became a bland side character. I hope she becomes more defined in book 2 because she started so strong! And I did enjoy the fact she was a diverse character. The Brothers Grimm were German after all – it makes no sense for every character to be a white American other than the lack of diversity we see in the media (go Quinn!). Unfortunately, she was probably the least necessary of the four, and the book might have been easier to follow and connect with had she been dropped.
Around 50% in, and fed up of garden path sentences, I decided this book didn’t make much sense. If I regressed every time something was vague, confusing, illogical, or jumped around, then I would have never finished it.
So I changed tactic.
I used what I will now dub ‘the thick skimming technique’, where I kept moving forwards at a brisk pace whether it made sense or not, which is what the writing style tended to do on its own. If you’re a fast and light reader, then perhaps you’ll find this book very fitting. Its strength is definitely the pace.
In this fairy tale realm, I found the references to brands a bit distracting. Chanel. Louis Vuitton handbags. They even had cell phones. How? Why? How much contact with the regular world does Elorium have? It’s an unanswered mystery, and raises more questions than it answers.
Sometimes the plot did have obvious holes in it. Instead of stitching them up, we’re told in a clunky fashion that ‘but you can’t do that’. The author notices there’s a potential flaw and essentially tells the reader ‘no, that would ruin my plot’. I shrugged and got on with the story, but as I said before, it’s easier to skim this book than read it.
I hate the phrase ‘show don’t tell’ because it’s so vague and not always correctly used. But the connection between the four teenagers is forced. They only know each other for a few measly seconds before they’re familiar and know what is and isn’t ‘characteristic’ of the other. I didn’t know it wasn’t characteristic because I haven’t really met Fredrick yet.
And modifiers! Description should be more than just nouns and verbs with adjectives and adverbs in front of them. Most could be scrapped to no ill effect. ‘Exaggerated overreaction’ was a particular low point. If it’s an overreaction, we gather that it’s exaggerated.
The language often took odd turns. For a middle grade book, words like ‘perturbed’ and ‘unperturbed’ felt out of place (yes, both were mentioned and rather close together), especially as the rest of the lexis was simple. Lots of information was either ‘forthcoming’ or ‘no other information was forthcoming’. It felt like a robotic way of stating something that didn’t need to be said.
A Grimm Legacy did have redeeming qualities. I didn’t feel bored because, although sometimes I lost the plot, it moved on so quickly that I could pick it back up again for the next surprising event. The author must be a very creative spirit. It’s fast paced and entertaining at the very least. I also thought the chapter titles were clever. Strange quotes from the narrative were picked out which intrigued me to read on as well as showed the quirks of the novel. I enjoyed the quirkiness (where it worked). If only it worked more.
Essentially, I didn’t connect with it at all. I’ve read better novels sentenced around fairy tales. It’s awkward and a bit confusing, but mildly entertaining. I enjoyed skimming it more than reading it. I’m glad I didn’t request the sequel!
Source: NetGalley.com
Blog:ScookieReviews
March 8, 2014
A Grimm Legacy (Grimm Tales #1) by Janna Jennings is a book that takes fairy tales, including so that are not incredibly well known, and adds a special twist, combining the timeless quality of old folktales with the challenges of the modern world. The woods of Elorium appear normal to Andi Grace. At least they might seem normal if she had not been somewhere else mere moments earlier, birds are talking, and elves are answering doors. Andi and three other teens have been pulled out of the world and are the reluctant guests of the perplexing millionaire, Mr. Jackson, a stranger keeping secrets while saying he will help them get home. Unexpected family connections to this fairy tale land have the group relying on each other as they dodge evil fairies and battle giants. Faced with characters short on whimsy and bent towards treachery, Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan are forced into fairy tale roles to find the way home. But in Elorium, happily ever after is never guaranteed.
A Grimm Legacy is the start of a series that holds great promise. Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan are fairly normal teens that are yanked out of their very different lives and end up in Elorium, a world where all the fairy and folk tales live. There are fairies, elves, witches, princes, queens, and all those characters that make the stories timeless. Each of the teens have their own unique skill set, which aids them along their way. The questions underlying the whole story is why are they there, who is pulling the strings, and how can they get home. I enjoyed the interplay between the characters, and while there was a hint at romance and resulting conflict ahead, I was glad to see that the action and fairy tale conflict was a much bigger part of the story than anything to do with romance. I do not want to get too detailed about the kid's gifts or the stories that they find themselves in, because that discover is part of the fun. Just enjoy the read and remember that the stories we know are not the whole story.
I would recommend A Grimm Legacy older middle grade readers, young adults, and adults that enjoy seeing new takes on folk and fairy tales. There is also mystery, adventure, and a bit of self discovery in the story. Despite this being the start of a series, I will say that enough of the questions are answered to give readers a happy feeling of resolution, but there are still enough larger questions in my mind to make me eager to read the second installment (which is already on my Kindle and waiting for me).
A Grimm Legacy is the start of a series that holds great promise. Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan are fairly normal teens that are yanked out of their very different lives and end up in Elorium, a world where all the fairy and folk tales live. There are fairies, elves, witches, princes, queens, and all those characters that make the stories timeless. Each of the teens have their own unique skill set, which aids them along their way. The questions underlying the whole story is why are they there, who is pulling the strings, and how can they get home. I enjoyed the interplay between the characters, and while there was a hint at romance and resulting conflict ahead, I was glad to see that the action and fairy tale conflict was a much bigger part of the story than anything to do with romance. I do not want to get too detailed about the kid's gifts or the stories that they find themselves in, because that discover is part of the fun. Just enjoy the read and remember that the stories we know are not the whole story.
I would recommend A Grimm Legacy older middle grade readers, young adults, and adults that enjoy seeing new takes on folk and fairy tales. There is also mystery, adventure, and a bit of self discovery in the story. Despite this being the start of a series, I will say that enough of the questions are answered to give readers a happy feeling of resolution, but there are still enough larger questions in my mind to make me eager to read the second installment (which is already on my Kindle and waiting for me).
November 13, 2013
I doubt this is a spoiler since I guess this was happening from the title (the characters, on the other hand, did not), but if you don't want to know, skip this paragraph. But anyway, if you've heard of the web-cartoon series Ever After High, then odds are you won't be unfamiliar with the idea of fairy-tale characters having children.
A Grimm Legacy follows Andi, Quinn, Frederick and Dylan as they're pulled into a land called Elorium. They all come from different places and different families, but they soon discover that they have something in common. Realising that Elorium is a land filled with fairy-tales, they have to survive using their wits and Andi's grandmother's items (a fairy tale book, a cloak, a pair of slippers).
Personally, I loved this book! The book goes through quite a few fairytales, and it was interesting to see what happened after each story ended. For example, in the tale of Jorinda and Joringel, the witch catches Jorinda many many times. But Jorinda refuses to live in fear of the witch, and takes it as a part of her life.
Another thing that I loved was the character of Quinn. Quinn is Indian, so she brought with her a really rich heritage. She's also a proper main character, not the token person of colour. She gets her own fairytale and her own romance. The only thing that would make it better if there were a few more characters like Quinn.
Oh, but when I say 'main character', I mean 'in the party of four that was pulled into Elorium'. If I had to pick only one main character, I would say it was Andi. Because she was the one who brought items in, she's the one that gets them out. So there's a good part of the story that focuses on her and her fairytale. But I would say that Dylan, Quinn and Frederick get enough space of their own.
If you're looking for a modern day fairytale involving descendants of the original characters, look no further!
And if you haven't watched Ever After High, you totally should.
Disclaimer: I got this book free from the publishers in exchange for a free and honest review.
Note: I read this book for the fairytales retold reading challenge.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
A Grimm Legacy follows Andi, Quinn, Frederick and Dylan as they're pulled into a land called Elorium. They all come from different places and different families, but they soon discover that they have something in common. Realising that Elorium is a land filled with fairy-tales, they have to survive using their wits and Andi's grandmother's items (a fairy tale book, a cloak, a pair of slippers).
Personally, I loved this book! The book goes through quite a few fairytales, and it was interesting to see what happened after each story ended. For example, in the tale of Jorinda and Joringel, the witch catches Jorinda many many times. But Jorinda refuses to live in fear of the witch, and takes it as a part of her life.
Another thing that I loved was the character of Quinn. Quinn is Indian, so she brought with her a really rich heritage. She's also a proper main character, not the token person of colour. She gets her own fairytale and her own romance. The only thing that would make it better if there were a few more characters like Quinn.
Oh, but when I say 'main character', I mean 'in the party of four that was pulled into Elorium'. If I had to pick only one main character, I would say it was Andi. Because she was the one who brought items in, she's the one that gets them out. So there's a good part of the story that focuses on her and her fairytale. But I would say that Dylan, Quinn and Frederick get enough space of their own.
If you're looking for a modern day fairytale involving descendants of the original characters, look no further!
And if you haven't watched Ever After High, you totally should.
Disclaimer: I got this book free from the publishers in exchange for a free and honest review.
Note: I read this book for the fairytales retold reading challenge.
This review was first posted at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
December 12, 2013
I'm really excited to take part in the "Grimm Legacy" by Janna Jennings book tour. I received this book for an honest review. I thought the book was fantastic. Patchwork Press has really caught my attention with the books that have been published & promoted by them." A Grimm Legacy" did not disappoint !
I rated the YA/ Fairy Tale genre title 4 $$$$ :) right off the bat I was enjoying the pace and quirkiness of the characters. Individually each was pretty basic teen, however as a group they were charming.
Since the blurb for the book is just up above I'm not going to rehash the basics. I will however say that when the group first arrives in the realm if Elorium it gave me a completely "Willy Wonka" feeling with a dash of "Edward Scissorhands". The crazy gardens, wacky food, even the mansion & it's twin elve butlers "Cob & Harland". The description of the mansions odd & secretive owner was the cherry on top.
A very cool thing about this book is that it has a lot of really specific actual original fairy tale bits. None of that "let's not tell that part cause it's scary". There have been a lot of great books coming out bringing back the fairy tale with modern twists.. Fae blood in the family tree.. Baby snatching.. All that great stuff.
I really enjoyed reading this book and was pleased to see a # 1 next to the title. I will defiantly be keeping my eyes out for the next book in the series.
I would recommend this book to fans of Holly Black, Laura Howard, A.G. Howard, Kellie Sheridan ( also Patchwork Press) & Alex Flynn. There are tons more, Laini Taylor's another great author with a few fairy tales tucked up her sleeve. This title was absolutely a YA /fairy tale fantasy book. As a absolute adult I really enjoyed it. I'm obsessed with all things fae so I might be a little biased. Just for the older crowd there's also a very much adult series that features the fae by Laurell K. Hamilton and the "Fever series" by Karen Marie Moning. I highly recommend checking out all these authors. Today however head over to the links provided above and add the Grimm Legacy by Janna Jennings to your "To be read list"!
Keep checking back there is a bunch of holiday fun coming up.. Who doesn't love gifts & surprises? Http://www.mouseheadandtales@weebly.com
I rated the YA/ Fairy Tale genre title 4 $$$$ :) right off the bat I was enjoying the pace and quirkiness of the characters. Individually each was pretty basic teen, however as a group they were charming.
Since the blurb for the book is just up above I'm not going to rehash the basics. I will however say that when the group first arrives in the realm if Elorium it gave me a completely "Willy Wonka" feeling with a dash of "Edward Scissorhands". The crazy gardens, wacky food, even the mansion & it's twin elve butlers "Cob & Harland". The description of the mansions odd & secretive owner was the cherry on top.
A very cool thing about this book is that it has a lot of really specific actual original fairy tale bits. None of that "let's not tell that part cause it's scary". There have been a lot of great books coming out bringing back the fairy tale with modern twists.. Fae blood in the family tree.. Baby snatching.. All that great stuff.
I really enjoyed reading this book and was pleased to see a # 1 next to the title. I will defiantly be keeping my eyes out for the next book in the series.
I would recommend this book to fans of Holly Black, Laura Howard, A.G. Howard, Kellie Sheridan ( also Patchwork Press) & Alex Flynn. There are tons more, Laini Taylor's another great author with a few fairy tales tucked up her sleeve. This title was absolutely a YA /fairy tale fantasy book. As a absolute adult I really enjoyed it. I'm obsessed with all things fae so I might be a little biased. Just for the older crowd there's also a very much adult series that features the fae by Laurell K. Hamilton and the "Fever series" by Karen Marie Moning. I highly recommend checking out all these authors. Today however head over to the links provided above and add the Grimm Legacy by Janna Jennings to your "To be read list"!
Keep checking back there is a bunch of holiday fun coming up.. Who doesn't love gifts & surprises? Http://www.mouseheadandtales@weebly.com
May 27, 2016
“I’m a girl of many hidden talents.” She gestured to her filthy, damp clothes. “Keeping myself out of trouble is not one of them.”
I loved A Grimm Legacy! The fairy tale world had me captivated instantly and I was rooting for the four main characters the entire time. Andi is the unwavering leader, the main link between the other characters and the fantastical world of Elorium. Fredrick, a compassionate southern boy, is the brave protector. Quinn, strong and selfless, is always quick-thinking in stressful situations. And Dylan, a stereotypical Californian surfer, has a secret soft spot beneath his persuasive exterior.
This story begins when these four teenagers from different areas of the country mysteriously appear in a foreign world. As the plot progresses, we discover that Andi, Fredrick, Quinn, and Dylan each have a connection to the world of Elorium.
One of the coolest things about this novel is how it echoes popular Grimm fairy tales, but with a twist, of course :) Even if you aren’t too familiar with fairy tales (which I am not), you’ll still recognize references to the major stories. For the lesser known tales, Janna Jennings summarizes them in a fitting way that still leaves you anxious to find out what happens next.
“Don’t say impossible, not after the day we’ve had.”
This book is suspenseful and intriguing! During the more mysterious plot lines I found myself devouring every page. And let me just comment on this gorgeous cover: I love it! I am a sucker for beautiful book covers even though I try not to ignore or judge books with horrible covers (I fail sometimes). This cover is great–it’s simple yet it pulls you in at the same time.
Read This If:
…you enjoy fairy tales
…you are a fan of the TV show “Once Upon A Time” (this book is exactly like that)
…you’re into reading adventure novels
…you love books that leave you hanging in suspense until the last page
Final Musings:
This book exceeded my expectations. It was full of mystery and suspense, and several of the big reveals really surprised me. I can’t wait to read the sequel, Grimm Memories! Check back for that review next week :)
I loved A Grimm Legacy! The fairy tale world had me captivated instantly and I was rooting for the four main characters the entire time. Andi is the unwavering leader, the main link between the other characters and the fantastical world of Elorium. Fredrick, a compassionate southern boy, is the brave protector. Quinn, strong and selfless, is always quick-thinking in stressful situations. And Dylan, a stereotypical Californian surfer, has a secret soft spot beneath his persuasive exterior.
This story begins when these four teenagers from different areas of the country mysteriously appear in a foreign world. As the plot progresses, we discover that Andi, Fredrick, Quinn, and Dylan each have a connection to the world of Elorium.
One of the coolest things about this novel is how it echoes popular Grimm fairy tales, but with a twist, of course :) Even if you aren’t too familiar with fairy tales (which I am not), you’ll still recognize references to the major stories. For the lesser known tales, Janna Jennings summarizes them in a fitting way that still leaves you anxious to find out what happens next.
“Don’t say impossible, not after the day we’ve had.”
This book is suspenseful and intriguing! During the more mysterious plot lines I found myself devouring every page. And let me just comment on this gorgeous cover: I love it! I am a sucker for beautiful book covers even though I try not to ignore or judge books with horrible covers (I fail sometimes). This cover is great–it’s simple yet it pulls you in at the same time.
Read This If:
…you enjoy fairy tales
…you are a fan of the TV show “Once Upon A Time” (this book is exactly like that)
…you’re into reading adventure novels
…you love books that leave you hanging in suspense until the last page
Final Musings:
This book exceeded my expectations. It was full of mystery and suspense, and several of the big reveals really surprised me. I can’t wait to read the sequel, Grimm Memories! Check back for that review next week :)
December 19, 2014
Wow! Every so often you come across one of those books that grabs you and pulls you into the world you read. It twists your mind into believing that you are right there with the characters fighting off the ‘bad guys’ and getting you excited. I love Fairy Tales and The Brothers Grimm are right up there near the top of my list simply because they are different and different is good. This book was just that, different and very good. It reminded me of a combination between Alice in Wonderland and The Chronicles of Narnia and considering these are two of my favorite books/series it is probably a big reason why I enjoyed this so much.
As far as the characters go, Quinn was probably my favorite from the start due to her rock climbing I could totally identify with her joy of climbing and it was nice to see a girl who did not panic and at least tried to stand up for herself. Andi was definitely the brains behind the group and I think she rocked the part, and while the talking to birds thing seemed a little strange to me, she was still bad ass and I found her to be a very strong character. I could see Fredrick as a stable older brother figure providing the voice of reason to the group, and I hope that the next part of the story focuses a bit more on him in the next book. Dylan is still a bit of a mystery to me and I can’t help but not quite know what to think of him yet. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and see the relationships between the characters grow and develop into an even stronger bond, after all, one isn’t sucked into the world of Grimm’s Fairy Tales and comes out the same, right? (I guess that could be considered a spoiler?)
I suggest this for anyone who enjoys fairy tales getting twisted up but still leaving you relatively happy, as well as any fans of Once Upon A Time (the TV show) because it shares a striking resemblance in many fashions.
As far as the characters go, Quinn was probably my favorite from the start due to her rock climbing I could totally identify with her joy of climbing and it was nice to see a girl who did not panic and at least tried to stand up for herself. Andi was definitely the brains behind the group and I think she rocked the part, and while the talking to birds thing seemed a little strange to me, she was still bad ass and I found her to be a very strong character. I could see Fredrick as a stable older brother figure providing the voice of reason to the group, and I hope that the next part of the story focuses a bit more on him in the next book. Dylan is still a bit of a mystery to me and I can’t help but not quite know what to think of him yet. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and see the relationships between the characters grow and develop into an even stronger bond, after all, one isn’t sucked into the world of Grimm’s Fairy Tales and comes out the same, right? (I guess that could be considered a spoiler?)
I suggest this for anyone who enjoys fairy tales getting twisted up but still leaving you relatively happy, as well as any fans of Once Upon A Time (the TV show) because it shares a striking resemblance in many fashions.
December 13, 2013
This is such a wonderful and new take on the Grimm tales. Ms. Jennings has tapped into a new and exciting way to relate the tales and make it relevant to today's society. Those who don't know the tales will like this version for it is twisted and exciting.
I wasn't at sure first about Andi she was a little off putting but she grew on me. I also didn't know if she was Cinderella or Red Riding Hood because I never recalled Cinderella having a cape but like I sad this is a new exciting take on the tales.
Andi and three others are taken suddenly from their world and placed in Elorium. Why? Well that I can't tell you because it is a spoiler and you definitely need to read the book for that answer. So they are in Elorium and facing new challenges. Frederick is the one I couldn't figure out until I was told. Great job in keeping his Grimm tale a secret. He is however up there in a favorite character with his shy heroic ways. And how he is around Quinn is so cute. Dylan that boy is a ladies man but we find out why in the end. He though has a thing for Andi and boy does it show when he has to see her with Wilhelm. It's a new thing for him I think and fun to watch.
The one thing I couldn't figure out is with the twist that had occurred fifty years prior why hadn't the stories changed in the books that everyone read on the tales. The question I have now is what is Andi up to in the end? I do hope Elorium isn't in her sights because boy after all they went through I wouldn't want to be them if they decided to try that.
Ms. Jennings did a masterful job at creating a new twist on the Grimm tales and taking it to a relevant place for today's teens to appreciate. The story is fascinating and will keep you reading until you got your fill at the end and left you hanging wondering what is up next.
I wasn't at sure first about Andi she was a little off putting but she grew on me. I also didn't know if she was Cinderella or Red Riding Hood because I never recalled Cinderella having a cape but like I sad this is a new exciting take on the tales.
Andi and three others are taken suddenly from their world and placed in Elorium. Why? Well that I can't tell you because it is a spoiler and you definitely need to read the book for that answer. So they are in Elorium and facing new challenges. Frederick is the one I couldn't figure out until I was told. Great job in keeping his Grimm tale a secret. He is however up there in a favorite character with his shy heroic ways. And how he is around Quinn is so cute. Dylan that boy is a ladies man but we find out why in the end. He though has a thing for Andi and boy does it show when he has to see her with Wilhelm. It's a new thing for him I think and fun to watch.
The one thing I couldn't figure out is with the twist that had occurred fifty years prior why hadn't the stories changed in the books that everyone read on the tales. The question I have now is what is Andi up to in the end? I do hope Elorium isn't in her sights because boy after all they went through I wouldn't want to be them if they decided to try that.
Ms. Jennings did a masterful job at creating a new twist on the Grimm tales and taking it to a relevant place for today's teens to appreciate. The story is fascinating and will keep you reading until you got your fill at the end and left you hanging wondering what is up next.
November 21, 2014
I really liked this tale of modern-day teens caught up in traditional fairytales. Making excellent use of the Grimm tales, this book takes its reader – and the four main characters – on an adventure packed trip through old stories, new twists and unexpected outcomes as the four new friends just try to get home.
I loved the way old and new are crammed together in this story, with a mix of fashions and technology for the last two hundred years. The four main characters are great too, seemingly quite cliché at first, but growing and developing as the story goes on. I think Andi was probably my favourite – she’s a talker and outgoing, small and pretty, and at first glance probably not the best choice for an adventure. Yet she’s also brave, a fairly quick-thinker, a good actress and willing to do almost anything to help her friends.
Frederick is the quiet one, he’s shy and never one to speak up, yet he’s protective and loyal, and definitely a hero in waiting. I felt a bit bad for Quinn, because despite her take-charge attitude, she does have one or two problems along the way. As for Dylan, well, he’s the charmer and I kind of wish we’d seen a bit more of him, because of all of them he developed the least. Then there’s the mysterious Mr Jackson, who definitely has a story of his own to tell, not to mention a secret agenda. Can he be trusted, or is he just another part of this mixed-up tale?
With a plot that twists and tangles, mixing fairytales with glee abandon, this story is perfect for anyone who likes the original folktales with their darker sides still attached. Imaginative, funny and a great page-turner – you might think you know the Brothers Grimm, but think again. And this book is only the beginning. I cannot wait to see where the series heads next.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I loved the way old and new are crammed together in this story, with a mix of fashions and technology for the last two hundred years. The four main characters are great too, seemingly quite cliché at first, but growing and developing as the story goes on. I think Andi was probably my favourite – she’s a talker and outgoing, small and pretty, and at first glance probably not the best choice for an adventure. Yet she’s also brave, a fairly quick-thinker, a good actress and willing to do almost anything to help her friends.
Frederick is the quiet one, he’s shy and never one to speak up, yet he’s protective and loyal, and definitely a hero in waiting. I felt a bit bad for Quinn, because despite her take-charge attitude, she does have one or two problems along the way. As for Dylan, well, he’s the charmer and I kind of wish we’d seen a bit more of him, because of all of them he developed the least. Then there’s the mysterious Mr Jackson, who definitely has a story of his own to tell, not to mention a secret agenda. Can he be trusted, or is he just another part of this mixed-up tale?
With a plot that twists and tangles, mixing fairytales with glee abandon, this story is perfect for anyone who likes the original folktales with their darker sides still attached. Imaginative, funny and a great page-turner – you might think you know the Brothers Grimm, but think again. And this book is only the beginning. I cannot wait to see where the series heads next.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
October 31, 2014
Book Review: Grimm Legacy, Kellie Sheridan
I really liked this book. I loved parts of it. The plot idea of kids being descendants of real fairy tale characters is an intriguing one. The way the teens are written was believable, and I liked that they all came from different backgrounds, and weren't the blond-haired, blue-eyed cutouts we've become used to from Disney movies. The action was really good when they are pulled from their own worlds, and continued at a fast pace for pretty much the remainder of the book.
I liked the characters they met along the way, and the things they learn and pieces they put together in order to make their way around the fairy tale land of Elorium. I did enjoy the scrapes they got themselves into and found it all to be very interesting.
The trouble comes in the last third of the book. I really feel like it started to get repetitive. I can only take so much adventure. I was getting a little tired of them being drug around by everyone and having to rescue each other. However, those who LOVE adventure stories and fairy tales will truly enjoy this book. I would recommend it for young adults, and advanced readers age 10+.
I received this book free from Patchwork Press in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this book. I loved parts of it. The plot idea of kids being descendants of real fairy tale characters is an intriguing one. The way the teens are written was believable, and I liked that they all came from different backgrounds, and weren't the blond-haired, blue-eyed cutouts we've become used to from Disney movies. The action was really good when they are pulled from their own worlds, and continued at a fast pace for pretty much the remainder of the book.
I liked the characters they met along the way, and the things they learn and pieces they put together in order to make their way around the fairy tale land of Elorium. I did enjoy the scrapes they got themselves into and found it all to be very interesting.
The trouble comes in the last third of the book. I really feel like it started to get repetitive. I can only take so much adventure. I was getting a little tired of them being drug around by everyone and having to rescue each other. However, those who LOVE adventure stories and fairy tales will truly enjoy this book. I would recommend it for young adults, and advanced readers age 10+.
I received this book free from Patchwork Press in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2013
If you like your fairy-tales to include all the elements of a traditional tale but also offer something new, this may be a book that you enjoy. Admittedly, in the beginning I wasn't sure what to think. Each of the first few chapters began with a different character and to be honest, at first I was a little lost.
Good news though, the author managed to work them all into one nicely flowing, interesting story with an abundance of magic and mystique. This was a fun, light book to read on an afternoon off, with many great characters and a lot of funny parts that made me smile and laugh.
I like the way the author used a basis of traditional fairy-tales but made them her own, giving this book unique twists and turns and keeping me from knowing exactly what to expect.
I did find a few spots where the sentences felt a bit awkward and the dialogue could have been improved in some places, but overall, this was a lot of fun and I think you should check it out. This author has a wonderful imagination.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher and provided by Netgalley.
Good news though, the author managed to work them all into one nicely flowing, interesting story with an abundance of magic and mystique. This was a fun, light book to read on an afternoon off, with many great characters and a lot of funny parts that made me smile and laugh.
I like the way the author used a basis of traditional fairy-tales but made them her own, giving this book unique twists and turns and keeping me from knowing exactly what to expect.
I did find a few spots where the sentences felt a bit awkward and the dialogue could have been improved in some places, but overall, this was a lot of fun and I think you should check it out. This author has a wonderful imagination.
This review is based on a digital ARC from the publisher and provided by Netgalley.
January 6, 2014
Following my review of Fairy Tales from the Brothers Grimm by Philip Pullman recently, I couldn't resist this children's book inspired by the stories. Set in modern times the book follows four teenagers who are suddenly whisked from their regular lives and end up in the fairy tale land of Elorium. Fairy Tales in the modern world isn't a new idea of course, currently the TV shows One Upon a Time and Grimm both feature the characters from the stories as "real life".
Nevertheless this is an enjoyable and well plotted adventure story. The four main characters are strong and likeable and there is a good mix of the famous and the lesser known tales in the book. I didn't feel the bad guy was used enough and his character needs more fleshing out but this is the first book of presumably a series and so I'm sure more will be forthcoming there. In all I think A Grimm Legacy is a solid start to a new series and will particularly appeal to children aged around 9-13 years.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in return for my honest review.
Nevertheless this is an enjoyable and well plotted adventure story. The four main characters are strong and likeable and there is a good mix of the famous and the lesser known tales in the book. I didn't feel the bad guy was used enough and his character needs more fleshing out but this is the first book of presumably a series and so I'm sure more will be forthcoming there. In all I think A Grimm Legacy is a solid start to a new series and will particularly appeal to children aged around 9-13 years.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book through Netgalley in return for my honest review.
October 23, 2014
This book follows four seemingly average teens who get thrown into a fairy tale world. Andi, Quinn, Fredrick, and Dylan are all from different places and don't seem to have anything in common. Yet they all have been plucked from their life and dropped into the middle of Elorium. Elorium seems to be any ordinary town, until the birds start talking and elves seem to be a normal part of life here. It's not long that the four teens find each other, they know they have to work together to help find their way home. They battle evil fairies, giants, evil royalty and more. Each teen has a family tie to a different fairy tale and is being forced to play their part to finish the story that has been stuck in time for hundreds of years. Now, how can they escape before they are stuck there forever . . .
This book started out kinda slow, but was always interesting. It's a great story, a fairy tale set in modern times with a twist! The four main characters are all likable, and there is a good mix of different fairy tales.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book started out kinda slow, but was always interesting. It's a great story, a fairy tale set in modern times with a twist! The four main characters are all likable, and there is a good mix of different fairy tales.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2014
(4.5 stars)
I was given the opportunity to read this tale via NetGalley and enjoyed it! I am a huge fan of fairy tales retold, and this one does not disappoint.
Andi, Quinn, Dylan, and Fredrick all find themselves transported to an enchanted land called Elorium. They have no idea why they are there or why they have been ordered to be taken to an evil master named Herrchen. They find themselves in many "grimm" circumstances and soon the pieces start falling into place of why they were all brought to Elorium. The only "Happily Ever After" this group desires is to find their way back home.
What I enjoyed most in reading this story was the fast pace, quirky personalities of each of the characters, and the large variety of fairy tales intertwined into the story line. I believe my students in grades 3rd and 4th (I am an elementary school librarian for grades PreK-4th grade) would enjoy this fairy tale twist since fairy tales retold are currently popular. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to preview this story!
I was given the opportunity to read this tale via NetGalley and enjoyed it! I am a huge fan of fairy tales retold, and this one does not disappoint.
Andi, Quinn, Dylan, and Fredrick all find themselves transported to an enchanted land called Elorium. They have no idea why they are there or why they have been ordered to be taken to an evil master named Herrchen. They find themselves in many "grimm" circumstances and soon the pieces start falling into place of why they were all brought to Elorium. The only "Happily Ever After" this group desires is to find their way back home.
What I enjoyed most in reading this story was the fast pace, quirky personalities of each of the characters, and the large variety of fairy tales intertwined into the story line. I believe my students in grades 3rd and 4th (I am an elementary school librarian for grades PreK-4th grade) would enjoy this fairy tale twist since fairy tales retold are currently popular. Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to preview this story!
December 20, 2014
I was provided with a free copy of this book in return for a fair review.
This one started out a little rocky, with a couple places where the narrative was a little contradictory, and all four main characters being introduced too quickly in too few chapters. That being said, I really love fairy tale rewrites and the premise of this one was well thought out and amusing. I love it when fairy tale rewrites include some of the lesser known tales. I had trouble throughout distinguishing between the characters just because of the rapidity with which they had been introduced and the characters were not really developing throughout the novel, but the constant introduction of new fairy tales and dangers kept the story moving along at a fairly good clip. The one really stylistic annoyance was the chapter titles being quotes from the chapter itself. I found that annoying, but I have no idea why. I will be reading the next one of these and adding it to my list of fairy-tale rewrites I feel comfortable recommending.
This one started out a little rocky, with a couple places where the narrative was a little contradictory, and all four main characters being introduced too quickly in too few chapters. That being said, I really love fairy tale rewrites and the premise of this one was well thought out and amusing. I love it when fairy tale rewrites include some of the lesser known tales. I had trouble throughout distinguishing between the characters just because of the rapidity with which they had been introduced and the characters were not really developing throughout the novel, but the constant introduction of new fairy tales and dangers kept the story moving along at a fairly good clip. The one really stylistic annoyance was the chapter titles being quotes from the chapter itself. I found that annoying, but I have no idea why. I will be reading the next one of these and adding it to my list of fairy-tale rewrites I feel comfortable recommending.
January 16, 2016
Take Into the Woods, every fairy tale you thought you knew, and add Mark Twain's riverboat travels and add Janna Jennings' spin on those Grimm fairty tales, and you have a fantastical, exciting adventure.
Not knowing anything about Jennings' YA novel, you jump headfirst into what was, what could have been, and what will be. It was nto difficult to follow, survive, and advance through thepages with Jenning's imagination and seeing how Jack, Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more interact and rely on each other to survive. I like the realistic plot that allows A Grimm Legacy to progress and continue - and this is just part 1. A Great start (and finish) to the 2016 Readathon, marathon!
Although I felt the see it coming part of the fairy tale was predictable, I liked the result sof the plot. Am I am compelled to see what happens in the second part, not 100% but slightly curoius to move on, was not a HAVE TO READ for me, but kept my attention as I progressed through. Middle grade recommended.
Not knowing anything about Jennings' YA novel, you jump headfirst into what was, what could have been, and what will be. It was nto difficult to follow, survive, and advance through thepages with Jenning's imagination and seeing how Jack, Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and more interact and rely on each other to survive. I like the realistic plot that allows A Grimm Legacy to progress and continue - and this is just part 1. A Great start (and finish) to the 2016 Readathon, marathon!
Although I felt the see it coming part of the fairy tale was predictable, I liked the result sof the plot. Am I am compelled to see what happens in the second part, not 100% but slightly curoius to move on, was not a HAVE TO READ for me, but kept my attention as I progressed through. Middle grade recommended.
September 15, 2016
This book was an unexpected and interesting read, with good characters and a very interesting premise for the rest of the series which I very much look forward to reading.
The main characters are Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan. For each of the main characters they start off in a normal world but then get magically transported to a fairy tale world where the characters we'be known and loved since Disney introduced us to them are alive and all with secret agendas. Each of the main character has to step into the shoes of a character whom it turns out they are related to since their grandparents escaped this world.
There are not many secondary characters with there being so many main characters.
The storyline was an original take on a classic story and the pacing was great although I would like to have had more from Fredrick's story although i expect that will be explored more in the next book in the series.
4 stars a good read and I would reccomend it to anyone who liked the classic Grimm's or other adaptations on them.
The main characters are Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan. For each of the main characters they start off in a normal world but then get magically transported to a fairy tale world where the characters we'be known and loved since Disney introduced us to them are alive and all with secret agendas. Each of the main character has to step into the shoes of a character whom it turns out they are related to since their grandparents escaped this world.
There are not many secondary characters with there being so many main characters.
The storyline was an original take on a classic story and the pacing was great although I would like to have had more from Fredrick's story although i expect that will be explored more in the next book in the series.
4 stars a good read and I would reccomend it to anyone who liked the classic Grimm's or other adaptations on them.
February 18, 2014
Andi was taken out of her home to find herself in a world with three others and where fairy tales are real. The four of them must find their way home or be forever stuck in the world of Elorium, where it appears they are descendants of famous storybook people. With the help of Mr. Jackson, can these kids find out why they are there, what they need to do to get home or will they be forever stuck in Elorium?
I enjoyed this whole other world where four individuals who have never met, must come together to overcome all the strange characters they encounter and to figure out how to get home. Each character was unique to the story and once you found how who they were related to, you understood why they were brought there. I loved the tangled web of a story line that keep you enthralled to figure out what was going to happen next and who you were going to come across!
great take on classic tales, I look forward to more from this author!!
I enjoyed this whole other world where four individuals who have never met, must come together to overcome all the strange characters they encounter and to figure out how to get home. Each character was unique to the story and once you found how who they were related to, you understood why they were brought there. I loved the tangled web of a story line that keep you enthralled to figure out what was going to happen next and who you were going to come across!
great take on classic tales, I look forward to more from this author!!
November 24, 2013
I received this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
The cover is what attracted me to this book! From the red cape and shoes to the contrast of the lettering. I love fairy tales, especially ones that get twisted into stories for adults. This book however follows four main characters into Elorium and the author follows along a few fairy tales until they are able to get out.
I loved the combination of the different fairy tales, it really made the story unique. However, I do agree with one reviewer that the grammar was pretty bad, but it is to be expected with an ARC so I wouldn't let that deter anyone. Jana Jennings wrote an amazing retelling of tales we are familiar with. I loved the detail that was present in the book.
So pick up a copy of this book and follow Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan into Elorium and find out for yourself how to survive Elorium!
The cover is what attracted me to this book! From the red cape and shoes to the contrast of the lettering. I love fairy tales, especially ones that get twisted into stories for adults. This book however follows four main characters into Elorium and the author follows along a few fairy tales until they are able to get out.
I loved the combination of the different fairy tales, it really made the story unique. However, I do agree with one reviewer that the grammar was pretty bad, but it is to be expected with an ARC so I wouldn't let that deter anyone. Jana Jennings wrote an amazing retelling of tales we are familiar with. I loved the detail that was present in the book.
So pick up a copy of this book and follow Andi, Quinn, Fredrick and Dylan into Elorium and find out for yourself how to survive Elorium!
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
February 21, 2014I couldn't make it through this one. The characters didn't grab me and seemed much younger than their apparent ages. This read far more like a middle-grades novel than the YA that the publisher's web page said it was.
If we look at it as an MG title, it would probably stack up better. The writing is simplistic and juvenile, and the plot is largely action-oriented. From chapter one, something is always happening. Why it's happening is not always clear, other than it's actiony and throws the characters into mayhem. At 35% I had to call it quits. The plot had already been 2 or 3 major setting change, magical transportation, "what just happened to us, where are we" moments and I had very little grasp on what the central conflict actually WAS. They just kept running into different crises and I was uninterested.
If we look at it as an MG title, it would probably stack up better. The writing is simplistic and juvenile, and the plot is largely action-oriented. From chapter one, something is always happening. Why it's happening is not always clear, other than it's actiony and throws the characters into mayhem. At 35% I had to call it quits. The plot had already been 2 or 3 major setting change, magical transportation, "what just happened to us, where are we" moments and I had very little grasp on what the central conflict actually WAS. They just kept running into different crises and I was uninterested.
February 18, 2015
Janna Jennings has taken the familiar fairytales of the Grimm brothers and put a fantastical new twist on them. A Grimm Legacy introduces the grand children of a few fairytale figures and sees them transported from the familiarity of our modern world into the realm of imagination. Janna Jennings has created a novel full of mystery, magic, and danger that is sure to capture readers imaginations.
This novel is targeted to young adult readers, but I think many adults who grew up on those stories would be just as enthralled. The writing is fast paced and the twists in the tale make it difficult to put down. Janna Jennings manages to make the familiar into something new and incorporates the lesser known stories in such a way that they become familiar without taking away from the adventure. I am looking forward to the sequel and I know other readers will be too.
This novel is targeted to young adult readers, but I think many adults who grew up on those stories would be just as enthralled. The writing is fast paced and the twists in the tale make it difficult to put down. Janna Jennings manages to make the familiar into something new and incorporates the lesser known stories in such a way that they become familiar without taking away from the adventure. I am looking forward to the sequel and I know other readers will be too.
December 26, 2013
Yet another YA novel I was able to review from Netgalley that was an enjoyable read.I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series as the book kind of left you hanging.
Andi saw herself as an ordinary teen, but when she and 3 other young people wind up in a world where animals talk and fairy tales really do come true they realize that this world is anything but normal!
I really enjoyed this book and liked how it was told from all of the 4 young peoples perspectives as it made it more well rounded and enjoyable.I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes fairy tales and interesting YA books.
Andi saw herself as an ordinary teen, but when she and 3 other young people wind up in a world where animals talk and fairy tales really do come true they realize that this world is anything but normal!
I really enjoyed this book and liked how it was told from all of the 4 young peoples perspectives as it made it more well rounded and enjoyable.I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes fairy tales and interesting YA books.
November 4, 2014
I want to say thanks to Patchwork Press and Netgalley for letting me read this book in exchange for an honest review. This is not what I was hoping for it to be. I loved it but for me it was really confusing for me to read. I didn't get a lot of what was going at all. It was focus on many different story lines. I think maybe if they were to focus on one thing at a time instead of doing everything at once then it wouldn't be confusing. I really had high hopes for this book. I couldn't pick out which character was from which fairy tale. Everything started to mesh for me and it seemed liked it dragged on after awhile.
February 1, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end. It was full of suspense with the kids getting themselves into and out of different situations time after time with a little romance mixed in. Learning about Grimm stories that are lesser known and trying to figure out which fairy tale each kid is from really helped to move the story along. This is definitely a book that I would like to recommend to my friends.
January 22, 2016
A refreshing twist on the plethora of Grimm remakes. This book focuses on the adventures of teens who are plucked from reality into the land of Grimm. Readers will wonder the connection of these four teens, but will soon come to understand that the connection truly lies with the teens' grandparents and their connection to Grimm. A must read for the Grimm lovers. This book leaves the reader eager to pick up the next in the series.
January 27, 2014
A fun filled narrative filled with fairies, witches, giants and a few other magical beings. Move over Harry Potter make room for the adventures of Andi, Quinn Fredick and Dylan ordinary teens in extraordinary circumstances okay maybe not quite so ordinary teens lol no spoilers just read it!!! I recieved this book as a R2R thanks Janna.
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