Nahri has never believed in magic. Certainly, she has power; on the streets of 18th century Cairo, she’s a con woman of unsurpassed talent. But she knows better than anyone that the trade she uses to get by—palm readings, zars, healings—are all tricks, sleights of hand, learned skills; a means to the delightful end of swindling Ottoman nobles.
But when Nahri accidentally summons an equally sly, darkly mysterious djinn warrior to her side during one of her cons, she’s forced to accept that the magical world she thought only existed in childhood stories is real. For the warrior tells her a new tale: across hot, windswept sands teeming with creatures of fire, and rivers where the mythical marid sleep; past ruins of once-magnificent human metropolises, and mountains where the circling hawks are not what they seem, lies Daevabad, the legendary city of brass, a city to which Nahri is irrevocably bound.
In that city, behind gilded brass walls laced with enchantments, behind the six gates of the six djinn tribes, old resentments are simmering. And when Nahri decides to enter this world, she learns that true power is fierce and brutal. That magic cannot shield her from the dangerous web of court politics. That even the cleverest of schemes can have deadly consequences.
After all, there is a reason they say be careful what you wish for...
My Book Rating
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕
My Book Review
This was unbelievably good. So good that it made my favorites list after nearly two years without any new additions!
The story starts unfurling in Cairo, Egypt, with the talented young con artist Nahri showing us her skills in surviving in tumultuous times by, well, conning rich men and women. Her world, however, turns upside down when she accidentally summons a powerful djinn, who recognizes her ancestry and sweeps her away to the majestic city of Daevabad. From then on, a grand adventure begins...
I have to admit that I'm always terrified when I want to read such a popular book, with so many controversial reviews! Perhaps I was in the perfect mindset, or perhaps these are the books, stories, writing styles, and heroes I like reading the most...
Nonetheless, this novel blew my mind and made me crave to read the next installment immediately -- something that *never* happens, may I add...
I can get why some people might not be fond of this book, given that the pace seemed a bit slow at times and almost too fast at other points, but I witnessed everything as a way to build up the world and the characters and the dynamics between the different djinn tribes, so that you can really understand what's going on beneath the surface.
For me personally, this element of patient world building, made me appreciate both the intricate times and the characters' beliefs and actions. And, yes, even those that I didn't particularly like.
And, speaking of characters, I loved how there's no black and white, no one hero was purely good or purely evil, they really felt like real people with far more complex personalities, in a way that made it impossible for me to judge their decisions. And, through the aforementioned patient and detailed world building, I was also able to partially understand everyone's actions as well, not just those of the narrators -- Nahri and Ali.
I can see all these incredible elements only unfurling more in the next novel, with this society's intriguing dynamics being even more complicated than in this first installment, and I just couldn't be more excited!
Bone Criers have a sacred duty. They alone can keep the dead from preying on the living. But their power to ferry the spirits of the dead into goddess Elara’s Night Heavens or Tyrus’s Underworld comes from sacrifice. The gods demand a promise of dedication. And that promise comes at the cost of the Bone Criers’ one true love.
Ailesse has been prepared since birth to become the matriarch of the Bone Criers, a mysterious famille of women who use strengths drawn from animal bones to ferry dead souls. But first she must complete her rite of passage and kill the boy she’s also destined to love.
Bastien’s father was slain by a Bone Crier and he’s been seeking revenge ever since. Yet when he finally captures one, his vengeance will have to wait. Ailesse’s ritual has begun and now their fates are entwined—in life and in death.
Sabine has never had the stomach for the Bone Criers’ work. But when her best friend Ailesse is taken captive, Sabine will do whatever it takes to save her, even if it means defying their traditions—and their matriarch—to break the bond between Ailesse and Bastien. Before they all die.
My Book Rating
🌕🌕🌕🌑🌑
My Book Review
I originally gave this 2,5 stars but decided on rounding it up to 3 stars, because honestly, it was a great story with an excellent premise, even if its execution wasn't exactly what I had in mind.
That doesn't mean, however, that someone else won't love this.
Bone Crier's Moon narrated the story of Sabine, Ailesse and Bastien. Sabine and Ailesse are Bone Criers, ferriers of the spirits to the afterlife. Those 'creatures' are called to kill their soulmates before they are able to take on their duties. Bastien's father was the victim of one of those 'White Ladies', and on his way to avenge him, his plans go sideways. Like, really sideways!
Honestly, the story and the Bone Criers' legend sound so interesting and intriguing, and the White Ladies sound so badass and right up my alley. Their magic is based on the bones they collect by killing three animals and taking on their most prominent power. Pretty controversial, if you ask me, and not exactly my favorite magic system, given that animal cruelty is a big no-no for me. However, it was unique to what I've read before and made me wonder whether the legend of those Dames Blanches actually exists.
Considering, the sole (POV-wise, but really, only one more boy was present in the book) male hero's plan to begin his quest for revenge but have his plan go way different, the plot would be warmly welcomed, if properly executed.
However, something felt missing regarding the writing style. I didn't really manage to connect with the story or the characters. In addition, the world-building felt a little bit lacking and while it was properly described, I felt like the focus was solely on Ailesse and Bastien. And, to be fair, I liked Sabine much more.
Which brings us to the characters, who felt somewhat unrealistic and flat to me. I was only rooting for Sabine, who was actively trying to save Ailesse throughout the book, although in some questionable ways. Ailesse felt more like a typical teenager with mother issues to me, while Bastien was... just there.
To be honest, my review might seem a little harsher than my actual thoughts on the book are.
I feel like the insta-love and predictability were too big throw-offs for me, but otherwise not a bad experience. Just not one that would make me to keep reading the series.
The definition of balancing between adventurous and steamy!
Claimed by Gods is the first novel in Their Dark Valkyrie reverse harem series by Eva Chase, featuring our favorite gods inspired by the Nordic mythology!
If you like a different spin on many well-known and -loved Nordic deities (namely, Loki and Thor), fighting over Aria's charms, well, this is the book for you.
A typical reverse harem novel, where the heroine has to decide between all heroes (and sometimes even choosing them all, heh).
I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an e-arc, in exchange for an honest review.
I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the BRITFIELD
& THE LOST CROWN by C.R. Stewart Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!
About the Book:
Title: BRITFIELD & THE
LOST CROWN (Britfield Series, Book I)
Britfield & the Lost
Crown is the first book in a thrilling seven-part series for middle school and
young adult readers. It will inspire children to engage both their creativity
and their critical thinking skills as they encounter actual places, authentic characters,
and exciting but realistic events in seventeen action-packed chapters.
Based on family, friendship,
loyalty, and courage, Britfield & the Lost Crown and its hero, Tom, take
readers on an epic adventure across England – from the smoldering crags of
Yorkshire to the heart of London and, finally, to the magnificent shores of
Dover.
With help from his best
friend, Sarah, and a hot air balloon, Tom flees Yorkshire, escaping from
Weatherly Orphanage and the clutches of a relentless detective, in pursuit of
the truth about himself and his heritage: Are his parents still alive? Is he
the true heir to the British throne? As Tom and a memorable cast of both heroic
and dastardly characters unravel a royal mystery that could change the course
of history, readers are taken on a breathless journey to a surprise ending that
will leave them clamoring for more .
Built on more than seven
years of extensive research and development, Britfield & the Lost Crown
creates a real world that readers can embrace as it weaves accurate geography,
literature, architecture, and history into its fast-paced story. With
stimulating language and active writing, Britfield engages the reader from the
first pages and doesn’t let go until it reaches its exciting conclusion.
Reviews for BRITFIELD
& THE LOST CROWN
"The story was
everything the cover promised. I felt like I was in a kid version of Mission
Impossible. I was on the edge of my seat with narrow escapes, daring plans and
unexpected adversaries."- Reader Views Kids, Autumn, Age 14
"Along with its relentless action and suspense, Stewart's novel provides
young readers with a wealth of information about British culture (with frequent
references to literary classics) and the history of the Monarchy and the
Anglican Church. Highly recommended, Britfield and the Lost Crown will
appeal to both young readers and their parents."- Parents' Choice
Awards - Gold Medal
"In this series opener, Stewart offers nearly nonstop action, with
escapades both perilous and amusing, and exhilarating hairsbreadth escapes. The
conspiracy is bold and compelling while the plot folds in intriguing facts
about British culture, history, and famous sites."- Kirkus Reviews
"A perfect mixture of fast-paced excitement, heart-stopping
surprises, fascinating history, and endearing characters with historical
references scattered along the way. Stewart's clever narrative draws you in and
doesn't let you go till the end!"
- Reader's Favorite Book Reviews, Dawn Weaver - 5 Stars
"A joy to read to the very last page, Britfield & The Lost Crown is
a high-spirited saga, enthusiastically recommended for personal and public
library young adult fiction collections."- Midwest Book Review
"An Intriguing first-in-series read that is sure to capture the attention
of the middle grade and young adult crowd. Britfield weaves
plot, texture, storytelling, and fascinating characters into a winning
combination and enriching experience."- Chanticleer Book Review
- 5 Stars
"This fast-paced, vivid tale has many twists and turns which keep tween
readers turning the pages,"- Eric Hoffer Award
"A thrilling tale with loads of adventure and unexpected twists that will
captivate youth audiences. Recommended for home and school libraries."- Children's
Literary Classics - Gold Medal
"This is a far-flung adventure story that will readily interest the target
audience. Stewart writes in clear, descriptive prose and integrates alluring
and novel details that at times harkens back to an earlier era, an effect that
offers an element of timelessness to the storytelling."- The
Booklife Prize
"Such a thrilling book filled with so much awesome history about
England, crazy mysteries, and truly amazing characters. It had me hooked every
second of reading it!!
-Hannah, Age 13, Kids' Book Buzz - 5 Stars
"Narrator Ian Russell carries listeners along for a thrilling, fast-paced
adventure about two kids, Tom and Sarah, who run away from a bleak Yorkshire
orphanage. Pursued by a determined police detective, they face even more danger
when Tom discovers a clue about his ancestry that may link him to the royal
family and a plot to eliminate his bloodline--including him. With varied
accents and voices, Russell transports listeners to England and brings each
character to life. As hot-air balloon crashes, several narrow escapes, and a
white-knuckle chase through London ensue, Russell ramps up the pace of his
narration, making the danger all the more palpable."- Audiofile
Magazine
Tom and Sarah's
adventures are masterfully narrated by award-winning voice actor Ian Russell,
who provides memorable voices to all the tale's characters. Along with its
relentless action and suspense, Stewart's novel provides young readers with a
wealth of information about British culture (with frequent references to
literary classics) and the history of the Monarchy and the Anglican Church.
Highly recommended, Britfield and the Lost Crown will appeal
to both young readers and their parents." - Parents' Choice Foundation - Gold Medal Award
Book Trailer:
EXCERPT
A strong breeze shot across the sky as
Sarah and Tom followed the pack of balloons over Oxfordshire. Known as the
Thames Valley, this lush countryside was a multicolored patchwork of square
farmlands crisscrossed by hedgerows and rock walls. The Thames River gracefully
snaked through the open fields covered with extravagant mansions built
centuries ago. Although most of the balloons headed toward Canterbury, some
floated off in opposite directions. By mid-afternoon, most of them had
vanished. Tom and Sarah followed behind a few but soon lost them in the hazy
clouds. Every so often, Tom gave the balloon a long blast of hot air to
maintain its altitude. While they drifted southeast toward London, their main
concern was Gowerstone. Peering through the binoculars,
Tom searched for the helicopter.
“I don’t see him.”
“Do you think he gave up?”
“No,” he replied quickly. “He’ll never give
up.”
“We seem safe for now.”
“For the moment,” he added with caution.
As Sarah admired the scenery, Tom reached
into his pocket to retrieve her locket.
“This really does bring me luck,” he
concluded, handing it to her. “Thanks for letting me borrow it.”
“It’s yours, silly,” she smiled, pushing it
back. “Just promise you’ll always keep it with you.”
“But —”
“Promise.”
“All right . . . it’s a deal.” Stuffing it
back in his pocket, he felt the piece of paper Patrick gave him and removed it.
“What’s that?” she inquired curiously.
“Before we left, Patrick broke into the
Grievouses’ office and looked through my file. He wrote something down.”
“Let’s see.”
Tom opened it. Scribbled across the page
was just one word.
“Hmm,” he grunted, expecting detailed
information.
“What does it say?” she demanded.
“Britfield.”
“Britfield? What the heck does that mean?”
“How am I supposed to know?”
“There must be more.” She snatched the
paper from his hand and thoroughly examined both sides. Dissatisfied, she shook
her head. “So Patrick breaks into the office, sneaks your file out, and writes
only one word on it — is he mad?”
“I’m sure he was in a hurry,” his voice
deepened, “given that we were planning to rescue you and everything.”
“Then it’s a clue?”
“It’s a name.”
“Maybe it’s your last name,” she suggested
encouragingly.
This comment caught Tom off guard. After
all these years of having only a first name, it was a lot to digest and felt
rather strange.
“Maybe,” he shrugged, not sure what to
think
About C.R.:
Born in Newport Beach,
California, C. R. Stewart has twenty years of experience writing fiction,
nonfiction, and movie screenplays. His areas of expertise also includes film
and media production, global strategy, and international marketing.
“Britfield & The Lost Crown
was conceived as an idea over 10 years ago while enduring a boring finance
seminar. It started as a sketch of a hot air balloon with a young boy and girl
trapped inside. From this simple drawing sprang the entire concept and story
for Britfield.”
C.R. Stewart received a Bachelor
of Arts in British Literature and European History from Brown University; did
post- graduate work at Harvard University; earned an MBA from Boston College;
and is pursuing a Master of Science in Advanced Management and a PhD in
Strategy.
Now based in San Diego, C.R.
Stewart is a strong supporter of education and the arts. He enjoys world
travel, reading, riding, swimming, sailing, tennis, and is currently on a
National School Book Tour with Britfield & The Lost Crown speaking to
students on the importance of creativity!
