It is Christmas time, and all Milo wants to do is relax with his parents, but unexpectedly guests start arriving at the inn. Then items start disappearing from the guest’s rooms. Who is the thief, and is it connected to the guests sudden appearance?
My thoughts –
This is a tough book to write up as I have mixed feeling about it. It combines fantasy with a mystery, yet in a very down to earth way. First, there are many things that I liked about this book. The main character Milo is an upstanding hero who loves his parents, but struggles with being adopted. He and another character work together well as they try to figure out the puzzle. I thought the mystery part was well written, and did not know who the thief was until the reveal.
The author did something unique for middle grade fiction by making most of the characters adults. At the start of the book, I struggled keeping track of who everybody was as they arrived all at once, but later on you get to know the characters. The two kids are respect the adults and Milo will ask his parents for help when he needs it.
Another part of the plot revolves around Milo pretending to be a character in a campaign game which assists him in the investigation. Their campaign is based entirely on the events that have occurred at the inn. I think the game is somewhat similar Dungeons and Dragons in that there are a variety of characters to pick from, and they each have special abilities (I have not played D &D just heard of it). This also helps him imagine what his real parents might have been like.
Also, I should mention that part of the story involves thieves and stealing items. Milo’s parents own a inn where smugglers frequently visit. Some characters tell stories about a famous smuggler who supposedly hide his treasure.
Language – Milo’s parents and other guests say Oh my G a couple times. Five or six uses of the H word mostly used in a common phrase. Still I was surprised to see it in a middle grade book
Violence – A character pulls out a gun and waves it around. He tries to shoot someone, but nobody gets hurt.
Innuendo – None
Other –
Now, we come to the final odd bit of the book. I am going to try to be as spoiler free as possible, but it gives the surprise away. So, if you want to be surprised skip this next paragraph. Ok, to start a couple characters talk about having seen a ghost and tell the story. Later, we come to realize that one character is a ghost. Honestly, I was not expecting this. It came towards the end. It knocked the book down a couple notches for me. I think it could have been a perfectly fine book without sticking ghosts in it.
Conclusion –
I am still on the fence with this book. There are many good things that I enjoyed about this book. I loved the characters which were all quirky. The plot never dragged. I read it within a couple days. Despite other thing mentioned, I enjoyed this one. It reminded me a bit of the Mysterious Benedict Society. Age wise not sure. I think it would depend on the child, but middle school on up. Adults can enjoy it as well.
Have you read this book and or the sequel? What did you like/dislike?
I love books, but I also love movies and shows that bring characters to life. I had been mauling this post over in mind for a while now and I think I will give a brief synopsis of the show and what I liked/disliked. Alright, so onward we go!!
#1 Psych
Synopsis –
So, basically two best friends help consult the Santa Barbara police department solve cases by pretending to be psychic detectives. Most of the time they stumble across clues due to Shawn’s observations. Shawn’s dad used to be a policeman on the force, and they have a rocky relationship. Gus is his best friend and works as a pharmaceutical salesman when not working on cases.
My thoughts –
First, I should admit that I did not discover this show until last fall, long after it finished airing, but this is a show that will get you hooked from start to finish. It has a good mix of comedy and drama. They are almost always cracking jokes even when working the cases, and can seem a little immature, but as you go along there are moments where we get to see the real Shawn and Gus. I love all the characters and their gradual development over the eight seasons.
Plus, if you have not seen the show, now is a good time to start as a new tv movie will be airing this holiday season.
Dislikes – Language. The first several season keep the language down, but around season 6 or 7 they say a bit more. A couple kissing scenes that overdo it.
Rating – PG – Some mild innuendo throughout the show, and a bit of language. Great for teens on up.
#2 Leverage
Synopsis –
Nate Ford’s son dies due to his insurance company refused to pay for his treatment. So to get even Nate joins a group of thieves to take from the powerful and give to those in need. It is like a modern Robin Hood with a touch of White Collar.
My Thoughts
This has been quite an entertaining show to watch. This ragtag band of misfits come together and find a sort of family. Despite the fact that they are committing crime, they are trying to right wrongs and I like that. All the characters have their own niche that they are good at, but put them together and they can do great things. My favorite characters are Eliot and Parker. They are quirky and both of their pasts are a little darker/sadder then some of the other characters.
Dislikes – Language, there is some infrequent mild language throughout the series. Two brief scenes where one character takes a shirt off, but you only see her from behind. A hint that two characters slept together. Maybe two times where you see women in bikinis. The violence is not to bad. Only a little blood is shown.
Overall – We have been able to watch this as a family and enjoy the characters develop. I love the more complex heists which throw a couple curve-balls at you.
Rating TV14 – for violence and language
#3 BBC Robin Hood
Synopsis –
Robin of Locksley returns after the crusades to find that his village has been overtaken by the sheriff and his men. Becoming an outlaw, he gathers together a group of outcasts and tries to protect his people and those he loves.
My Thoughts –
This is another recent find and I have enjoyed this series immensely. Yes, it is a little cheesy, and yes, the fight scenes are corny, but it is the acting and characters that makes this good. The BBC knows how to put together a good drama. I love Robin and Marian together. They are the cutest couple, and they have to go through so many obstacles. The sheriff is truly evil and I root for Robin and his gang. They also give Robin flaws which is nice.
If you have seen The Hobbit, Guy of Gisborne is Thorin Oakenshield.
Dislikes –
Honestly, so far it has been a pretty clean show. The violence is super cheesy and light. They do show a hanging or two, but Robin mostly saves the people from getting hurt. Language is almost nonexistent, maybe a choice word here or there. So far (I am currently in the middle of season 2) only like three scenes with innuendo. Some of Marian’s dresses are a little low.
Overall – So far I have really enjoyed it and look forward to finishing it. Update – I finished it!! Interesting ending. I actually kinda liked it.
Rating – PG
#4 BBC Sherlock
Synopsis –
This is a modern remake of the story of Sherlock. Sherlock is a consulting detective for Scotland yard. He meets a injured army doctor returning from war and they end up working together to solve crime. But how far will Sherlock go to keep his friends safe?
My Thoughts –
The first time I watched it, I thought hmm, this is kinda good. Then as we ended season one I thought, how cruel!!! You can not end it like that! They got me hook, line and sinker. 🙂 Anyway, the acting is supurb, and the mysteries are intense! Most of the episodes come from a story in the original books. I am the type of person who will overlook plot holes, if the show/book has really good characters. Sherlock’s character development over the four seasons is absolutely amazing! I love how he grows as a character from being quit the jerk to saving his friend’s life. My favorite episode is probably The Sign of Four. So many good moments in there.
Dislikes –
There are a couple content issues as sometimes it can be a little dark. The language is not too bad, mostly mild language with some British cuss words thrown in occasionally. The violence includes someone falling off a building, a couple time where someone is shot, a scary dog hallucination, and bombs. For the innuendo, there is one episode we skipped which is the first episode in season 2 and there is some stuff in the last episode of season 3 where Sherlock gets a girlfriend, but just for a case. There are some sad scenes with Watson in season 4, but they way it is resolved is quit good. Very tearful.
Rating – TV14
Overall –
Due to what I mentioned earlier, I would say teen on up with this show. I do love it! There is some amazing acting, sets are great, as are costumes!
#5 Doc Martin
Synopsis –
A brain surgeon suddenly develops a blood phobia and moves from London to the town of Port Wenn where he becomes there local GP. He is a crusty curmudgeon who has no bedside manner. Yet, he meets a local school teacher who finds a place in his heart.
My Thoughts –
This another British drama that is excellent. I like that this drama show regular people as they are with their issues and quirks. Normal people with problems. Marin has a really good character arc as he discovers things about himself. Louisa is another character who is great! There is a will they won’t they that goes on for quit a while. A little annoying as they go back and forth for a long time. Lastly, the scenery is absolutely beautiful!! It is set in Port Issac which they rename Port Wenn for the show.
Dislikes –
The doc sometimes likes to use colorful language now and then. He has a statue of Buddha, and definitely not a believer. The violence is minimal as the most you see if a little blood. In a later season someone get cut from glass which they do show. We only skipped maybe two episodes in season 2 or 3 . A couple references to character not being faithful. Two characters slept together outside of marriage once.
Overall –
The show feels light and despite the doc’s surliness, you do see that he cares about the people in the town. Then one is probably teen on up. Younger kids might get bored.
Rating – TV14
So have you seen any of these shows? Did you like/dislike them? Any shows that you would suggest?
Rating – PG-13 – handful of choice words and action violence
Synopsis –
This is the third book in the Myridian Constellation series. Currently there are only three books in the series, but there will be more. Anyway, the story takes place a couple months after the Errant King.
King Lochlan is fleeing for his life after Morlan has overtaken the throne and is willing to kill anyone who will get in his way. Meanwhile Abbagael is looking for her presumed dead husband, Alastair, who she believes is alive.
My Thoughts –
Whew! After ten years, I finally got to find out what happened. This book took me on quiet the ride and I enjoyed every minute of it. There were so many good themes throughout this book. Self-sacrifice, being faithful, patience, and perseverance. What I loved was that the word building. The author does a great job of creating a world and yet not being overly descriptive.
There was definitely more of an allegorical tone in this book. More so then the previous two, which I loved. Telwyn was sort of like a Jesus character. He was the son of the First One and he had a wisdom that comes from the First One. We see him perform miracles and a handful of people following him know who is. One of my favorite lines was when Telwyn told a character, “Flander Craggit, you need not fear Woefire ever again, for my Father has written your name on the Scrooll of Life. No one can expunge the blessed ink of His pen.” (Batson, p. 278).
I loved Abbagael and the journey that she embarked on as of all the characters Alastair Coldhollow was my favorite. In the previous books, we saw his steadfastness to the First One and his endeavor to right the wrongs that he had committed. I am trying not to give spoilers so you will just have to go read it for yourself. 🙂
Now content wise only a few concerns. With Morlan’s return, he brought back countless evil creatures with him. For the most part, the author did not go into detail about these vile creatures , but they are evil and perform evil deeds. Also, it should be noted that Morlan served Sabryne who was basically Satan in the books. So there are a couple times where it was a little dark. That is why I would say this is more aimed at adults then teens. Do not worry there is a clear distinction between who is good versus who is evil.
Violence –
Violence was a given as Morlan is trying to conquer all of Myriad but was not gratuitous. Throughout the book there are skirmishes between the good characters and the bad. The good characters get cuts, scrapes, a couple characters get minor injures from daggers. There are several wolf like creature who attack a main character. In one of the skirmishes a character is presumed to be dead, but Telwyn reveals that he was just sleeping.
There are several mentions of blood. A couple character bled. A character goes into labor. (not much detail and rather quick). Later on in the book there is a mantis like creature who resides in a lake of blood. She attempts to kill a character.
Innuendo –
Two of the main characters kiss twice and contemplate marriage.
Language – Ba- —d is uttered seven times.
Conclusion –
After such a long wait, this book answered some much needed questions. Compared to the first two books, I feel like this one had more depth. It iover 500 pages long! We know these characters and we get to see their personal development for good and bad as some characters make some poor choices. This could be read as a stand alone, but I would highly recommend reading this series in order.
Cannot wait to hear what you have to say! Have you read this series? Did you enjoy how this book played out?
Raven’s Ladder by Jeffery Overstreet – Part of The Auralia Thread series
Rating: PG-13 for action and violence
Synopsis:
This is the third book in the Auralia Thread series. Most of the book is told from Cal-raven’s perspective. Cal-raven goes on a quest to find a new home for House Abascar. The refugees eventually arrive in House Bel Amica where things are not as good as they seem.
My Thoughts-
I am still pondering my thoughts on this book, but I’m going to try to lay it out for you. This one seemed to fall a little short after Cyndere’s Midnight which I really enjoyed. I think we had so many threads to follow that it got bogged down and did not flow as easily as the first two books did. It was still good and I liked it, but not a favorite of mine. Also a couple content issues with it that I’ll discuss later.
In this particular installment we get to see a little bit more from the mysterious Keeper, but in an odd sort of way. King Cal-Raven actually gets to see it, but it behaves differently then how he anticipated. I’m trying not to give spoilers but basically it shakes everything that Cal-Raven thought was true and I can honestly say now that I finished that last book, The Ale Boy’s Feast, that the author does not explain this particular aspect. Their belief in the Keeper is a little odd.
I should also mention that one of the pagan religions is in moon spirits and Seers. Throughout the book it is shown to be flawed and the Seers are shown to be evil.
Violence –
In this third installment we meet a new enemy which is the ground. It is this vine like thing is thorny and hurt a variety of characters. It tents to take people away never to be seen again. So throughout the book several minor characters vanish or or injured from the Feelers.
There is a new character introduced and he is an archer. Throughout the book he shoots several bad characters with arrows. A little later on a character witnesses a hand being chopped off. A character becomes a captive for a while.
At the end there is a drawn out underground battle as the prisoners try to escape. Several individuals die in their attempt. One character falls down a chasm.
Language – None
Innuendo –
Early on two characters contemplate marriage. One or two kisses between different characters.
One of the main characters visits an old flame who is married. They talk and she does drug him. (The main character recognized that this was not a wise choice). I did not care for this and thankfully nothing else happens.
Conclusion –
Overall I enjoyed how the characters embarked on a journey to find a new home. The characters had flaws and were relatable. It reminded me a bit of the Lord of the Rings in that we had many characters and got to see their trials. While there was some violence, it was toned back from the previous book. There was a little bit of innuendo that I wished could have been done differently. So while not perfect, I liked it. The series as a whole I would say is aimed at adults.
Cyndere’s Midnight by Jeffery Overstreet – Part of the Auralia Thread series
Age range – Young adult or adult audience
Rating: PG13 for violence
Summary-
This is the second book in the Auralia Thread series. It picks up close to where the Auralia’s Colors left off maybe a couple months later. We get to hear from characters we know and love like the ale boy and king Cal-raven, but we also are introduced to new characters like Cyndere and Jordam. Jordam’s story takes center stage here.
After Cyndere’s husband is dead, she tries to continue their dream by befriending a Beastman. This Beastman had seen Auralia’s colors and is now conflicted.
My Thoughts –
First off I have to say that I have really enjoyed how the author weaves his story together. It almost seems lyrical and poetic. The characters were realistic and each have their own personal battles they went through. One of the main themes throughout this book was grief and how to continue on after the world came crashing down. All the characters are affected by House Abascar’s downfall.
I cruised through it quicker then the first book . For some books the author will switch between character’s perspectives and it makes the book divided. The way the author switched between the characters worked well and I did not mind it at all. I grew to like these characters as well if not better then Auralia and her story. I cannot wait to see how it will continue.
Violence –
There is a little more violence compared to Auralia’s Colors. The author introduces us to the fallen House of Cent Regus which are called Beastman. They kill all they come in contact with, expect for one named Jordam. Within the first couple of chapter one of the characters die. We find out later that Mordafey severed his hand. Jordam kills a wild animal and it mentions blood.
Mordafey performs various evil deeds throughout the book. He does team up with a Seer, more on that later. He orders his brothers to attack a wagon and kill the three people in it. Jordam does kill one of the men, but he questions what he is doing. He gathers an army to go fight the House Abascar.
Also, the Beastman required Essence. There are scenes where the brothers went down to the pit where it is located. One of the brothers injured several people while he was down in the pit. It is a little disturbing, but not too gratuitous. It helps show how much Jordam changes compared to his brothers.
Lastly, there is a scuffle between Abascar and the Beastman. None of the humans die, but several Beastman are injured/killed.
Language- None
Innuendo – One of the minor character flirted with a married woman, but she did not appreciate it. It was only mentioned a handful of times, used to show how flawed and evil a character was. The author depicted it as something that was wrong.
Other –
The House of Bel Amica followed Seers. Throughout the book we saw how they influenced people. One in particular is quite nefarious, but it is clearly shown that they are corrupt and not to be trusted. The Seers try to get the people to follow moon spirits, but the main character realizes that this is a false belief system.
Conclusion –
I really have enjoyed the first two books in this series. The characters felt alive. Although this book was a little darker then the first, I loved how we get to see redemption and forgiveness. Jordam was my favorite character and I loved how we get to see how his character developed. I would say this was probably more of an adult fantasy. The author was not overly descriptive with the violence, but it is there.
It is a tale of two kids who go on an adventure to help a king save his kingdom from destruction. Their goal is to find the missing crayons before the guards catch them.
My Thoughts –
So, I stumbled upon this book in the wordless section at my library. I looked through it first and decided to show the kids at work. It was hands down a winner!!! They loved it, and I love narrating what the characters are doing. 🙂
First, the illustrations are amazing. They really draw the reader into the story. I get more out of the story the more I read it. Lots of little details hiding in the pictures. What is even cooler, is that the kids in the story draw some of the illustrations. Think of the movie Bedtime Stories and that is kinda of what happens here.
Secondly, the plot is quite creative. The story spans all three books and keeps you on the edge of your seat. The author does a great job inspiring kids to use their imagination. Certain characters develop more then other characters. It is a neat twist on fantasy for young children.
Just a side note, but this is the second book in a wordless trilogy. I did not know that when I first read it to the kids. They kept asking for more “king books” and I found out there are two more. We have read them as well and the kids adore all of them.
Language – None
Violence –
There are some guards with spears chasing the kids throughout the book , but nothing happens.
Innuendo – None
Conclusion
If you know a young child, run over to your nearest library and find this book! I enjoyed so much and the kids at work beg me to read it. The illustrations are bold and colorful. Plus, it depicts different types of geography.
This is the third book in the Trophy Chase Trilogy. Packer has become king and has to deal with the war that is at hand. With his new authority, Packer has the opportunity to reach out to the Drammune and try to convert them. Meanwhile, Panna must face the political ramifications of her husband’s past.
My Thoughts:
This book could almost have been split into two books. The first half covers political ramifications of having a new king and the war that follows. Then the second half is about Packer’s plan to convert the Drammune and what ensues. Although I did enjoy the book, this one seemed slower then the previous two, and I took longer to get through it. The first half was almost better then the second. There are many characters who we hear from. I actually enjoyed hearing from the Firefish’s perspective. While some of the others, like Hand, I just did not care about.
The ending left me hanging. The way the author ended Talon’s story was sad, and I wish it could have gone a different angle. Also, I did not like that we jump from a young Packer to an old Packer. I wanted to see more of Packer growing older slowly. It tied up all the loose ends, but the way they tied some of them up felt out of place.
Language-
A “Dear God” in a non-reverent way. Mentions of sailors swearing. No words used.
Violence-
Now, Nearing Vast has just entered into a war so there are bound to be battles along the way. The first battle is a purposeful retreat and little bloodshed occurs. There is a scene where you think main characters are possibly going to die, but God keeps them safe. One character shoots an advisor and he dies. She also knifes two character as she escapes later on. Packer’s friends find clothing with blood on it, and they think Packer is injured. There is a fist fight between two characters.
There is a naval battle where most of the shooting is done by friendly ships. It mentioned causalities and men floating in the water. The Firefish attacks a character and leaves him with one arm. It then goes and sinks a Drammune ship with all aboard.
Lastly, there is a last battle between Nearing Vast, Drammune, and the Achawuk. Ships fire at people in the water. Mentions blood in water which brings Firefish. Ships are destroyed by Achawuk. A character tries to kill main character and throw him in water. A character shoots someone attacking the ship. A character is pierced with a sword and kills her and her unborn baby. There is mention of poison in the water which kills many of the Firefish. A character is wounded and at death’s door. Packer forgives him before the character dies.
Innuendo-
Packer and Panna lay clothed in bed and have a discussion of the previous day’s events. A mention of hand holding. There is a couple sentences of how Panna is beautiful.
Note: This is after they are married.
Conclusion-
This is a decent conclusion to this pirate trilogy. There are certainly things about this book that made it less enjoyable, but I am glad I took the time to read it. The author poses several theological points like being a pacifist among others. There is definitely some violence throughout this book, but it is a pirate story so, it is to be expected. One scene near the end may be too much for younger audiences. Death does occur, and we see some main characters perish. Plus, the first half is definitely more political then the other books were. I would consider this a book for young adults on up. I would say 3 1/2 out of 5 stars.
This is a story about a little dog who ends up going on an adventure that takes him around the world. He visits Africa, the jungle, and even the ocean.
My Thoughts-
I recently found this book at my local library and read it to the kids at work. They have asked to hear this story over and over. It is still a current favorite after a couple of weeks. The pictures are beautiful, and the more times I read it, the more things I can point out to the kids. The fun thing about wordless books is that I can discuss things with the kids that I think are important like what animals live in Africa or what facial expressions the dog is making.
Violence –
One picture does show native Americans holding spears, but they are not in detail. You see the spears fly through the air and one hits the dog’s umbrella.
Another picture shows the little dog surrounded by alligators and one snake (as my kids like to point out). Nothing is directly shown.
You do see the elephant trunk who rescues the dog and blows him to safety.
Language – None, it is wordless after all.
Innuendo – None
Conclusion –
This is a delightful little book that introduces kids to using their imagination and different regions around the world. Throughout the book, you will enjoy seeing the adventurers the dog goes through. The one native American scene may need some discussion, but overall this is a book I highly recommend. Age range probably 2-5 on this one.
“In the midst of their joyous “honey month,” newlyweds Packer and Panna Throme are once again thrust unwillingly into high adventure. Pirate Scat Wilkins, no longer in command of his great ship, has returned with evil intentions for Packer as the Trophy Chase sets sail for deep waters once again. While Packer is away, Panna, his bride, faces danger at the hands of the lecherous Prince Mather.” (Polivka, 2007).
My thoughts –
This is the second book in the Trophy Chase Trilogy, and it picks up right where the previous book left off. It is the largest book in the trilogy clocking in with 423 pages. There was so much good stuff in this one that I cruised right through it. All the key characters, that I had met in the previous book, were back. Some of the scenes also reminded me of the Hornblower series which I would also recommend.
I would say that I enjoyed this plot better then the first. The author introduced a new nation, Drammun, and I loved learning how they were different then the Vast. Throughout this book we find out more about Talon which helped me to understand her. Packer had more theological questions that put his faith to the test. Should he trust in his sword or let God do what he had planned? Panna also seemed to grow up a little bit and I liked her as a character better.
Violence –
The violence was dialed back a couple notches, and the violence that was there was mostly related to battles. At one point Packer believed that God wanted him to save his friends by killing all the enemies on his boat. He killed many men, but was not descriptive.
The Firefish returns in this book in a way that I was not expecting, but it worked. The Firefish does destroy a couple ships and ate all that fell into the water.
A character is shot with arrows and dies in his wife’s arms. Another character is hung, but people tried to save him to no avail. Afterwards, the people revolt and fight the Drammun.
Language –
None that I remember.
Innuendo –
If the language was toned down, then the innuendo went up. Panna is kept at the palace and the prince there has a thing for her. For a while she does not realize that he likes her. Once she does realize, she tries to stay away from him. At one point he tries to kiss her, but she rebuffs him with a punch and explains that she is married. At one point he asks to have dinner with her, and she accepts, but knocks him unconscious before dinner.
Another character gets married for political reasons and does end up loving her husband. She becomes pregnant.
Overall
This was a great squeal to the first book. I would say that this one was my favorite. I loved the character development and how the author was able to take me to this different world. Even Talon, had a human side to her. The violence did not bother me, but it is in there. I was annoyed with the prince for the majority of the book. However, this was definitely a step up from the first book.
Works Cited
Polivka, George Bryan. The Hand that Bears the Sword. Harvest House Publishers, 2007.
So for my first review I’ll start with a book that I just finished and really enjoyed which was The Legend of The Firefish by George Bryan Polivka. Here is the synopsis from the back of the book,
Synopsis –
“Packer Throme longs to bring prosperity back to his poor fishing village by discovering the trade secrets of Scat Wilkins, a notorious pirate who now seeks to hunt the legendary Firefish and sell its rare meat. Packer begins his quest by stowing away aboard Scat’s ship, the Trophy Chase, bound for the open sea. Through he is armed with a hard-won mastery of the sword and the love of Panna Seline, daughter of a priest of the kingdom of Nearing Vast, many tests of his courage and his resolve will follow -beginning when the young voyager is discovered by Scat himself.”
Overview –
This book mashed together pirates and fantasy with a dash of theology. Although it started a bit slow, it quickly picked up speed. It was a fascinating read, and I connected with the main character, Packer Throme. The characters felt realistic, and several of them had personal struggles that they were working through. There are several scenes that are very touching and emotional.
My Thoughts –
The book is written from a Christian perspective, but it is given in small thoughtful morsels. Basically the main character wanted to prove his father was correct and use that information to help others. For the most part Nearing Vast holds to Christian morals. The pirates are a mixed bag. Several are believers who strengthen Packer’s faith. While Scat and Talon are quite the villains.
Language –
There were a few references to hell and sending a person to hell. Also a couple instances of the use of idiots, but other than that fairly clean.
Violence –
There is a fair amount of violence spread out throughout the book, but that is to be expected for a pirate novel. Of the violence mentioned, none of it was gratuitous.
First, a character is keel hauled under the ship and almost dies due to lack of oxygen. One character was considered to be a witch, but she isn’t. She saved a person by expelling water from his lungs. Same character tortured the main character both physically and mentally. It did end up being a good thing, but was descriptive.
Secondly, there were several sea battles between the pirates and the Firefish. The Firefish swallowed people who were in the water and accidentally electrocutes the main character which caused him to almost fall. Several sailors died in battle or were stabbed. Another minor character was punched in the face. We did not find out what happens to him until near the end.
Lastly, there was a sword duel between two characters. Despite the the fact that they were fighting, this scene carries a lot of weight. During the sword duel, one character gets stabbed and get a couple minor cuts.
Innuendo –
Packer liked Panna ,and we saw the effect it had, but for the majority of the book they were separated. They kissed three times, but it was not descriptive.
Conclusion –
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. The book is geared towards adults as an adult fantasy, but I think young adults would get a lot out of this book as well.
