She's No Faerie Princess (The Others, Book 2)

Book Description

Queen Mab's niece, Fiona, has long been bored to tears by the intrigues of Court life. She'd prefer to cut loose at a punk club, knock back a few Thai beers, and hook up with a likely lad of similar interests. But when Fiona goes AWOL, she only gets as far as Manhattan's Inwood Park before a nasty demon nearly puts a permanent crimp in her plans—and a dark stranger sparks her desire...

All work and no play make Tobias Walker one cranky werewolf. After six months of doing his part to keep the peace during the delicate negotiations between the Others and humankind, he'd like nothing more than a good night's sleep—preceded by an enthusiastic mating session. The alluring woman he rescues in the park might be the answer to his most lustful prayers, but only if they can both stay alive long enough to find out who wants her dead and why.

Now, Fiona and Tobias must unravel a tangled web of treachery that spans branches of the Fae, Other, and mortal worlds, all the while falling into a dangerous attraction that could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship—or the end for them both...

Customer Reviews:

loved it.......2007-09-29

this book was great! It was funny, the dialogue was witty and the love scenes were hot, lol. Strongly recommend to all!

What happened?.......2007-09-04

I loved the first book in the series and Ms. Warren is an great writer, I just a hard time with this one. I struggled to finish it.

Another great story........2007-06-27

When Princess Fiona from the Seelie Court meets Werewolf Tobias Walker the sparks fly.This book has it all intrigue,romance.
Oh of course heat.
Great story!

Better than 'Wolf at the door'.......2007-06-24

I didn't like her first book of The Others, but I had bought the three books together, and maybe it was because I had already paid for them, or maybe because the plots were more interesting, but the other two books held better expectatives for me than the first one. So it proved out to be, and I liked this one far better than 'Wolf at the door', that was an easy plot and bad book... that I rated as a one star because less wasn't posible.

This one is better, the characters are better developed, and the story has more of a grip to it. The bad guy is easily identifiable, once he apprears on the story, and feels more like a fidgement put in there to be the bad guy and not a very developed character; but anyway the story is good and well-written, and the main characters are well developed.

I got a little bored of more of the same when I was halfaway of the book, but I don't know if it was because of the plot or if it was because I wanted to jump to another book I just got.

Anyway, it's an easy and fun story, a light book.

Light, Fun, and Very Entertaining!.......2007-02-17

An interesting premise...Fiona, daughter of Queen Mab (Seelie Court) and King Dionnu (Useelie court) decides she's had enough court intrigue and politics and heads off to New York for a bit of a vacation...despite the fact that travel to human land are banned by her aunt, The Queen. She successfully slips out of her world and into the human realm and is almost immediately attacked by a demon and then saved by Tobias, a werewolf. This story is an interesting mix of the everyday "real" world, a separate magical world...and those places where the two mix. The basic gist of the story is that Fiona comes for a vacation...a little dancing, some good food, a little hankie panky and winds up stuck here, hunted by demons at what could be described as the worst time for this to happen...at a time when humans and otherkin of all kinds are negotiating otherkin rights. At a time when these negotiations are at a delicate place and where Tobias and his pack are working around the clock to ensure there are no "incidents" to ruin the negotiations.

What you get in She's No Faerie Princess is just romping good fun with a minor mystery thrown in. Probably the best part of the book is the chemistry between Tobias and Fiona. They have a very Han Solo/Princess Lea kind of sexual tension/animosity between them (sorry, but that's what came to mind as I was reading through the book) that manages to be both humorous and annoying. I guess that's what happens when you throw a sexually liberated and extremely stubborn Faerie into a romantic paring with an [..] retentive, driven to protect werewolf. That's not all it's got...in this story you get Demons, Fiends, Witches, Werewolves (and a Werejaguar), heck you even get Demon Police...the number of twists in this novel, while somewhat predictable, are totally fun and She's no Faerie Princess has sex that actually manages to be "hot" and well placed...instead of the plot being used to bridge sex scenes, we got more plot with sex as a key component to making it all work out right.

Overall, I give it four stars. She's No Faerie Princess is a light, easy read that is very entertaining. The female lead is feisty and while she must be rescued more than once...she's not a helpless damsel waiting helplessly to be rescued by the big, strong werewolf...I like that she was independent, strong-willed (read stubborn), and really just looking to have a good time. The only drawback I found was that at times, the overbearing "mine" mentality the author gave Tobias got a bit tired...we get it already; you don't have to beat us over the head with it. Other than that, a really entertaining, light read for those times when you just need a bit of fluff to entertain you.

Ruler of the Realm (The Faerie Wars Chronicles)

Average customer rating:

Another fun addition
fairy realm books
It's the third adventure in the chronicles, but leisure readers will find it quite accessible.
easy buy
great reading

Ruler of the Realm (The Faerie Wars Chronicles)
Herbie Brennan
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1582348812
Release Date: 2006-10-03

Book Description

It is Henry’s third visit to the Faerie Realm, but this time in a rather different guise and to a rather different kind of place. Holly Blue is Queen and Lord Hairstreak appears to be proposing a truce between the Faeries of the Night and the Faeries of the Light. Meanwhile Prince Pyrgus has stumbled across some mysterious crystal flowers with an apparently formidable secret weapon, and there are rumours of a demon invasion led by Beleth, the Prince of Darkness.

Queen Blue, wary of her uncle’s uncharacteristic generosity, pays a visit to the Spicemaster’s labyrinth in an attempt to divine the possible future of the Realm. She is warned to beware someone close, little realizing just how careful she will need to be – and when she is kidnapped by the most unlikely candidate, the Realm rapidly descends into chaos.

In a thrilling adventure Blue, Pyrgus and Henry will find themselves in the midst of a furious battle to protect the future of the Realm and secure the throne for the rightful ruler.

Customer Reviews:

Another fun addition.......2007-06-29

Another fast paced adventure in this series. The same characters are seen, and Henry's life on Earth is still just as confused. At the opening of the novel he is trying to convince himself that the Fairie Realm is his reation to stress and that he created it all in his mind. Of course he and the reader get to be really confused as he is abducted by aliens and later transported a la Star Trek into the Fairy Realm.

The love Henry and Blue feel for each other is exploited in this and Blue is having a hard time dealing with the pressures of being the Ruler.

While these books are about fairies and magic they have alot more of a tomboyish bent to them than a girly froofy fairy tale. Some very fun scenes happen and clearly this is not the last book in the series.

fairy realm books.......2007-05-19

My favorite books are fantasy and while I may not put this right next to the dragon lance series, I thoroughly enjoyed the set.

It's the third adventure in the chronicles, but leisure readers will find it quite accessible........2007-03-07

A new 'Faerie Wars Chronicles' title for middle-school fantasy enthusiasts will reach both prior fans of The Faerie Wars and newcomers, who will find most accessible the story of the newly crowned Queen Blue, who is trying to rule her new kingdom. Her visit to the Spicemaster brings a warning and when her brother discovers a secret weapon just when Lord Hairstreak offers peace, trouble ensues, furthered by Blue's disappearance just as Henry returns from the Analogue world. It's the third adventure in the chronicles, but leisure readers will find it quite accessible.

easy buy.......2007-01-09

the book was in better shape than listed and was sent in record time this is a good person to buy from and i will be buying more from him

great reading.......2007-01-06

I liked this even better than the first two books in the trilogy.

Average customer rating:

It's ok.....
one of the best books if you love urban fantasy
Great read - positive lessons
F-bomb used repeatedly, porn, etc FILTH
A modern fairy tale

Valiant: A Modern Tale of Faerie
Holly Black
Manufacturer: Simon Pulse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0689868235

Book Description

When seventeen-year-old Valerie runs away to New York City, she's trying to escape a life that has utterly betrayed her. Sporting a new identity, she takes up with a gang of squatters who live in the city's labyrinthine subway system.

But there's something eerily beguiling about Val's new friends. And when one talks Val into tracking down the lair of a mysterious creature with whom they are all involved, Val finds herself torn between her newfound affection for an honorable monster and her fear of what her new friends are becoming.

Customer Reviews:

It's ok............2007-09-02

Between the deeper more mature reading I do, I like to search the young reader books for fast mindless reads. I really enjoy this section of the book store.(Tarmora Pierce, Stephenie Meyer are some of my favorites) Although I wouldn't recommend this book to young readers at all. It's filled with bad language, drug use and casual sex. I didn't feel that it really expressed the wrongness of that behavior though it tried in the end. All in all I wouldn't have finished it if I didn't enjoy it on some level but I wouldn't recommed it to teens.

one of the best books if you love urban fantasy.......2007-08-06

all of these books tie reality, living life on the edge, and faeries together. valiant was my favourite out of them all though, because i loved the character lollie so much.

after reading all the installemtns to this series, i was lucky enough to meet holly black and cassandra claire at a signing and talk about the genre they have helped flourish, they call it 'urban fantasy'.
it's quite amazing, as long as you're okay with things turning onto the fantasy side from reality.

Great read - positive lessons.......2007-08-06

I loved this book! I am a parent and I agree this book is appropriate for grades 9 and up. I think this book expertly explores problems some teens face: mother problems, boy friend problems, best friend problems, divorce, drugs and running away. It works through them all in a very positive and realistic manner. I thought it was a great read for adults as well as teens. The author totally convinced me that the world she created exists. Since this book is written in such a REAL setting (NYC) I don't think you have to be a fantasy lover to get sucked into the plot. And to those parents who have read other reviews listed here about the language and moral content I say - The language and the concepts are a necessary tool of the author in communicating her message. Holly Black explicitly describes the act of shooting up and the resulting high - it is with a fictitious substance - but it's easy to make the correlation to our world. Personally, I like where she takes the whole drug discussion. I'm not sure how the average teen sees it, but as a parent I see an excellent moral resolution. I think this book does a great job of tapping into the complexities of the current teen generation. Read this book!

F-bomb used repeatedly, porn, etc FILTH.......2007-08-03

Do you want your young adult or child reading a book that uses every foul word over and over? How about talking about porn and lesbians? F-bomb, F-bomb Fbomb S-bomb on every page, over and over. My 10-year-old checked this out from the library (he's an advanced reader) and after the fifth page he threw this down and started crying. Shame on the publisher for putting this in a young adult category, or publishing such filth at all.

A modern fairy tale.......2007-07-20

I am seventeen years old and I think that this novel is perfect for kids my age. It has sex, violence, drugs and supernatural elements. It was so fun to read and always kept me on my feet. It is one of those books were you feel as though you are the main character falling in love with the people she is and enduring all of her troubles. This book is amazing. I recommend it to all teenagers. My boyfriend and I have both read and loved this book so although the main character is a girl, all genders can enjoy this brilliant novel!!

The Purple Emperor (The Faerie Wars Chronicles)

Average customer rating:

fun read
I loved it!
Review for Purple Emperor
disappointing
Action-Packed but Lacking as a Sequel ...

The Purple Emperor (The Faerie Wars Chronicles)
Herbie Brennan
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1582347468
Release Date: 2006-08-22

Book Description

Henry Atherton, his faerie prince friend Pyrgus, and Pyrgus's fearless sister, Holly Blue, return in this fantastic adventure to save the Faerie Realm from the evil Hairstreak and his henchmen, Chalkhill and Brimstone. With the help of forest faeries, some silk mistresses, a sewer-dwelling creature of unknown dimensions, and additional creatures magical and otherwise, the three intrepid young friends find their way from exile back to the home they all would die to preserve and protect.

Customer Reviews:

fun read.......2007-09-19

I really liked this series, It was a good read. I didn't think I would like it when I read the first book, but once I started reading, I wanted to finish the whole series.

I loved it!.......2007-03-09

Personally I don't really like to read so the books that I actually do are usually pretty good. I was afraid that I would not know what was going on since it was a sequel but I wasn't the least bit lost at all. This book was perfect it had so much going on and it kept you waiting to see what would happen next. I could not put this book down; I read it all within a week. Herbie Brennan did a wonderful job and I look forward to reading the first book. It had the perfect balance between action, romance, drama, a bit of horror. It had it all! It had such a wide variety of characters from little worms that lived inside your head, an actual human, fairies, and more.

Review for Purple Emperor.......2006-07-06

This book is as exciting and full of mystery, suspense, and fantasy just like Faerie Wars. I liked all the new, interesting characters in the Purple Emperor, but i think i liked the first book better, i'm not sure why, it just kinda left you wondering and i liked that. I did like how the Purple Emperor was based more in the faerie realm instead of the analogue world it drew you in more than the parts based in normal life.

disappointing.......2006-04-30

I read and enjoyed The Faerie Wars a few months ago, and so was excited to start the sequel when I came across it. My excitement waned as I got into the book, however. There were three things that particularly disappointed me.
Through most of the book, there are a number of subplots happening simultaneously which come together in the climax. Brennan breaks the subpolts up into small peices, telling about this one for a few pages and then that one for a few pages, and then this other one, and then back to the first one, and so on. It seems that he wants to create suspense and keep the reader engaged, however for me it just made the book awkward and choppy. I had some trouble keeping the plots straight and understanding why certain episodes were significant to the overall story. There are some that I still think are totally irrelevant.
I realize that this is a work of fantasy and not meant to be realistic or anything, but some of the things we encounter in the book are completely unbelievable. He introduces a whole new group of faeries, the forest faerie, who are very numerous, have advanced technology, and are skilled fighters. Where did these guys come from? How did they get so good at combat if they've been hiding in the forest and never fighting anyone? And how is it that they're so numerous and yet have never been detected? It just doesn't add up for me. It seemed a quick, cop-out way to get things done. Like he needed a force to take on the deamon army, so he made these guys come out of the woodwork.
Then there's the ending. I didn't appreciate the values that are condoned in the ending of the book. I'm not going to tell any interested readers exactly what happens except that the main characters, the "heroes," pull off a very significant act of deception in order to get their way. While it does end up leading to a happy ending, I can't accept that they got there by immoral means and got out of accepting responsibility for their actions.
So in general, I was didn't like this book a whole lot. I won't be reading the next sequel should there be one.

Action-Packed but Lacking as a Sequel ..........2006-04-24

In his sequel to 'Faerie Wars', Herbie Brennan offers up plenty of action, thrills, chills, and suspense, but 'The Purple Emperor' sadly does not stand up to the standards set by its prequel.

Pyrgus Malvae is about to be crowned Purple Emperor, and he is dreading every part of his new found power. All to suddenly, the body of the soon-to-be-burried former Purple Emperor, Pyrgus and Holly Blue's father, has been stolen and resurrected back to life by their old enemy, Black Hairstreak. Meanwhile, former characters are plotting their own schemes, as Jasper Chalkhill, the flamboyant spy for Hairstreak, is pulled out of jail and has a physchic wyrm inserted into his bottom (no joke) in order to help assasinate Pyrgus for Hairstreak. And also, the old demonologist Brimstone has been hiding out with his new, and very temporary, wife until Beleth makes him an offer he can't refuse. Eventually, all of these character's paths cross in a monumental battle of wits and danger.

Sounds confusing, but Brennan weaves the multi-plot strands relatively well. The story unfolds in short chapters, unlike its prequel, and the majority of the story is furiously-paced, almost too fast. The whole beginning was a blur, and Brennan rushed it way too quickly. The characters are so quickly thrown in the action, I felt as if I was on the sidelines watching instead of actually involved in the story. Brennan's own demise is the rushed pacing and how fast he tried to set up the plot and action, as it stopped him from forming the solidity of a good beginning and base for the remainder of the story. The faerie realm felt very empty as I was pulled along by the fast pace, but once you get past the bad beginning, the rest of the story is a action-packed adventure that leads to a shocking ending.

Bogged down by a rushed beginning, 'The Purple Emperor' eventually closes with a strong conclusion and I only recommend it to fans of the first book who like Brennan's use of suspense and action. Here's hoping the third book, 'Ruler of the Realm', returns to the qualities that made the first book enjoyable, yet believable, fantasy.

The Chronicles of Faerie: The Summer King (Chronicles of Faerie)

Average customer rating:

Great Faerie tale
Death does not part them
what a page turner!
My favorite of the Chronicles of Faerie
The Summer King

The Chronicles of Faerie: The Summer King (Chronicles of Faerie)
O.R. Melling
Manufacturer: Amulet Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0810959690

Book Description

Sequel to the critically-acclaimed The Hunter's Moon

This second book in a series "shimmering with magic, myth, and romance" (Booklist), follows sixteen-year-old Laurel as she tries to understand the cause of her twin sister's mysterious death. Honor believed in Faerie, a parallel land of mischievous immortals. Laurel doesn't. That is, until the fairies come and ask her to take up her sister's failed quest to find the Summer King, a lord who can light the midsummer fire that keeps the two worlds, human and Faerie, cleaved. Laurel must decide to help those whose cause killed her sister, and, in the process, come to believe that there is still magic-and love-in the world.

Lush descriptions of Ireland and Celtic lore make this a satisfying read for travelers to other lands, real and mythic.

Praise for The Hunter's Moon

*"A compelling blend of Irish mythology and geography." - School Library Journal (starred review)

"...[This] sensation-loaded celebration of Ireland and Faerie will be a powerful draw for many readers." - The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Customer Reviews:

Great Faerie tale.......2007-05-17

On the anniversary of her twin sister's death, Laurel returns to Ireland in search of answers. Using her sister, Honor's, journal she finds references to a 'doorway', 'roly-poly man,' and a 'mission.' But what mission? Honor believed in the world of Faerie, something the cynical Laurel does not.

In the urban fantasy book, THE SUMMER KING, the reader follows cynical Laurel as she begins a quest to find the Summer King and save Faerie. All the while she harbors her own dream--to save her sister.

I found this book interesting and I loved the way author O.R. Melling describes the world of Faerie. You feel as if you are there. Rich and alive, you can almost feel the shock Laurel has when she realizes that Honor was right--Faerie does exist. The Gaelic language is vivid and though at times it did take me out of the story, I felt it was realistic. I mean, who hasn't heard the Irish tales of fairies? My own grandmother used to tell me these tales when I was young.

Check out the author's website at [...]The next book in The Chronicles of Faerie, will be THE LIGHT-BEARER'S DAUGHTER.

Death does not part them.......2007-05-17

Almost a year after her twin sister's death, Laurel returns to Ireland to find out why. What killed her bookish, honor student sister who believed in faeries? And--if what the fae are telling her is true--can she really get Honor back?

O. R. Melling is the real deal. She's Irish, she speaks the language, and she's studied the myths. When she writes about Ireland, she takes you there--and you don't want to leave. Go Underhill with Melling and other faery tales will not seem quite so real.

While this book is written for YA audiences, I think it's a compelling story for all ages and well worth the read. I plan on passing my copy along to a 13 year old niece and I'll get her the rest of the series as well.

what a page turner!.......2007-04-30

I keep telling myself that I am going to go to bed when I finish this chapter. Only to continue because I can not wait to find out what happens next! You know you got an entertaining story on your hand when that happens. I enjoy that its easy to read and I love the gaelic thrown in here and there. I intend to learn a lot more about Irish folklore after reading this book because it has sparked my interest. Very fun to read!

My favorite of the Chronicles of Faerie.......2007-04-27

Wow. I love fantasy, and this one truly captivated me. It is full of imagination and the characters were great as was the romance. The author's use of the Irish language and folk tales really brings these books to life. I definitely recommend this!

The Summer King.......2007-03-21

Our organization donates books to the schools and library every year. The librarian recommended this book which follows last years Hunters Moon as their choice. Both books are totally enjoyable and fanciful. The Summer King was a good choice for the middle schools. The teachers and librarians were very please with this choice as were the pupils who had read the first one.

Chronicles of Faerie #1: The Hunter's Moon (The Chronicles of Faerie)

Average customer rating:

Enjoyable... for a Tween or Young Teenager
Interesting start, but feels incomplete, like it's just the author's draft copy...
Compelling and beautifully written novel for any age
A well-written, entertaining, novel
Predictable, but entertaining all the same...

Chronicles of Faerie #1: The Hunter's Moon (The Chronicles of Faerie)
O.R. Melling
Manufacturer: Harry N. Abrams
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0810958570

Amazon.com

An Irish Canadian author's lauded fairy fantasies are updated and introduced to U.S. fantasy readers for the first time in O.R. Melling's Chronicles of Faerie. The first volume, The Hunter's Moon, follows two cousins, Gwen and Findabhair, as they backpack around Ireland in search of the country's magical past. But the girls go too far when they dare to spend the night in a known fairy mound. Finn is stolen away by the dark king of Faerie to become his bride sacrifice to the Great Worm, or Hunter. It is up to timid Gwen to rescue her intrepid cousin, and she wonders if the task will be too much the first time she catches a glimpse of the Little People at play. "Gwen quaked inside. This wild abandon…was beyond anything she could imagine…Exquisite chaos." But with the help of a fairy doctress and her handsome grandson, Gwen assembles a rag tag team of heroes determined to bring Finn back -- even if it means the destruction of Faerie itself.

Melling's scholarship is evident. In fact, some readers may wonder why she just didn't write a nonfiction book about Ireland's rich folklore, as her characters often step clumsily out of the narrative to spout a factual, yet hyperbolic speech about a particular cave, lake or legendary creature. But while Melling's writing is less successful when her characters are on this side of the Veil, her descriptions of Fairie are sweeping and romantic. Fans of writers like Midori Snyder or Clare Dunkle are sure to enjoy them. (Ages 10-15) --Jennifer Hubert

Book Description

Finally available in the U.S., this Canadian bestseller is a romantic and atmospheric tale of two teenage girls caught in the world of Faerie.

When she arrives in Ireland to visit her cousin Findabhair, American Gwen expects a fun backpacking trip to sites of the fairy lore they're both fascinated with. What neither cousin knows is that it's the summer of the Hunter's Moon, a dangerous time for mortals to meddle in the kingdom of Faerie. The girls camp out, and deep in the night Finn is kidnapped by the handsome Faerie king! In Gwen's quest to save her cousin, across beautifully evoked settings of modern-day and mystical Ireland, the spunky heroine's biggest challenge may be convincing Finn she needs to be saved! This is the first in a much-lauded and best-selling series from Canada by O.R. Melling, praised as "great stuff, beautifully told" by the Toronto Sun. It's been updated and expanded and is perfect for teen girls who like the work of Anne Rice, Holly Black, and Annette Curtis Klause.

Customer Reviews:

Enjoyable... for a Tween or Young Teenager.......2007-07-28

While I enjoyed some of the moments of the book, the flow seemed awkward and there were times when I felt the characters were a little too one dimensional and contrived.

Once I was finished reading the book, I gifted it to a girl who attends the same ballet school as my daughter. She later said she absolutely loved the book. Perhaps the teenage girls in the book were more "realistic" to a twelve-year-old than a thirty-something-year-old. Or maybe free books just read better than $8 books do.

Overall, good brain candy for a quicky read and an interesting and fun look into the world of the fae, but nothing that drove me to wanting to read more of the Chronicles of Faerie books.

Interesting start, but feels incomplete, like it's just the author's draft copy..........2007-02-17

The idea of "The Hunter's Moon" is that two cousins age 16), one Irish and the other Irish American with a shared love for folk lore are meeting up for the first time in years to back pack Ireland. During thier back backing the more rextroverted one is kidnapped by the fairy king and her cousin sets out to save her, despite her wishes. What follows is a endless tireless account of her journey (predictable in her personal changes: she steps out of her shell and learns to accept herself) and Celtic mythology.

As an Irish American teenager who traveled to Ireland last year, the book was extremely amusing to read with the constant references to tourist atttractions in Dublin, Irish music by Dropkick Muprheys and so forth. The mentions of Irish landmarks like the Hills of Tara and various other locations were fun and the portrayal of Irish culture were certainly interesting to read about (though the wide spread use of hitchhiking as transportation is disturbing...)

The characters were interesting to read about, but weren't exactly believeble (the romance between Finn and the fairy king seems forced and false, but we're meant to belive that it's true love; the relationship between Gwen and her leading man is similar). Furthurmore, I felt that the characters had the potential for me to identify with them, but the author's failure to give them any kind of past (Siblings? Gwen's home city? Childhood? Even a disticnt age?) detracts majorly.

However, my problems with the book is that up to the last quater of it, the time line didn't flow very well. The events occurring (another interaction with the fairy, another friendly stranger) could be the climax or an introduction: the styles and writing were extremely similar. Also, I had trouble decided if the characters were stereotypes or jsut actually how the Irish were. The beautifully handsome fairy king, wise woman with history, spunky Irish teenager with fantasy obsession.

Compelling and beautifully written novel for any age.......2007-01-17

Two cousins from two different parts of the world who share the same name and a passionate belief that faery exists, set out on a summer vacation in Ireland. Gwen, the US cousin, is tentative and dreamy. Findabhair, the Irish native, is passionate, beautiful and impulsive.

At Tara, they dare to spend the night in a Faery mound. Finn answers the call of the Faery King. Gwen is left behind to rescue her.

Time is running out--Hunter's Moon approaches and if Gwen can't get her cousin back, Finn will become the annual sacrifice to the Great Wyrm.

"The Hunter's Moon" is an amazing fantasy adventure told by someone who really KNOWS Irish folklore. Melling's education qualifies her to write non-fiction, yet she's choosing instead to educate us with enchanting tales of Irish folklore.

I highly recommend "The Hunter's Moon" for fantasy lovers of all ages. The story itself is delightful. The guides included relating to Gaelic language and Irish folklore are amazing.

A well-written, entertaining, novel.......2005-09-01

I really enjoyed O.R. Melling's novel. It's a fun coming-of-age adventure in which the main character, Gwen, develops her own strength and learns how to outwit the fairies. At first she is overshadowed by her beautiful cousin Findabhair. But when her cousin is kidnapped, Gwen must go on a quest throughout Ireland to recue her. Melling does an excellent job weaving in traditional fairy myth with beautiful descriptions of modern-day Ireland. Though the plot is thin in places I found the novel as a whole to be entertaining and enjoyable.

Predictable, but entertaining all the same..........2005-07-03

'The Hunter's Moon' has an interesting enough plot-an Irish girl is stolen by the faeries, and her visiting cousin must save her. This book is somewhat educational, providing the reader with interesting info on Ireland. O.R. Melling, according to the 'About the Author' thingy on the flap, was born in Ireland and studied Irish history.
Anyway, back to the story. I especially like the characters...the heroine, Gwen, is by no means perfect. She's short, slightly overweight, and has an *interesting* personality. The faerie king is the kind of person you're unsure about, not knowing whether he's good or evil.
One thing I didn't like about this book was the plot itself was extremely predictable. I won't say much, so not to reveal the ending, but let me just say you know exactly who's going to fall in love with who(the summary on the front flap gave most of that away...), and you pretty much know how it's going to end, or at least close to it. This book occasionally got boring, but I noticed after I read it that the only times it was boring was when the faeries weren't around, heh heh.
All in all I think this is a wonderful choice for fantasy lovers, or people who are interested in Ireland. Although it's a predictable sort of fairy tale, it serves as an enjoyable read.

The Lost Queen: Book Two of The Faerie Path

Average customer rating:

Second of a great series!

The Lost Queen: Book Two of The Faerie Path
Frewin Jones
Manufacturer: Eos
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0060871059
Release Date: 2007-10-02

Customer Reviews:

Second of a great series!.......2007-10-10

This books are listed as young adult, but I have enjoyed both of them very much. Very well written, holds your attention and you want more!

Chronicles of Faerie: The Light-Bearer's Daughter (The Chronicles of Faerie)

Average customer rating:

Another Fine Irish Tale
She'd risk her life for a wish

Chronicles of Faerie: The Light-Bearer's Daughter (The Chronicles of Faerie)
O.R. Melling
Manufacturer: Amulet
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 081090781X

Book Description

The third book in this critically acclaimed trilogy, which Booklist described as “shimmering with magic, myth, and romance”

Dana has few memories of her mother, who disappeared when she was small. But she has always dreamed, despite her father's discouragement, that her mother would come back one day. When her dad decides to leave Ireland and take a job across the ocean in Canada, Dana is heartbroken. How can she leave her home and the only chance of seeing her mother again? She runs away, high into the fairy mountains of Ireland. Following ancient paths, with a mysterious wolf companion at her side, Dana encounters a world of tragic enchantment and fairy romance, and discovers a great secret about herself.

With lush descriptions and rich Celtic lore, plus cameo appearances by characters from the previous books, this latest chronicle will satisfy fans of the series and entice new readers.

Customer Reviews:

Another Fine Irish Tale.......2007-09-05

I was impressed by The Hunter's Moon and The Summer King, so I was happy to discover Melling's third Chronicles of Faery book, The Light-Bearer's Daughter. All three have particular appeal for teenage girls, as their young contemporary heroines find themselves pulled into adventures involving Ireland's Fair Folk.

In this book Dana, who is angry to be told she must move to Canada, is asked by a fairy queen to act as a messenger, bearing a request for help to a lost king. In return, Dana will win a wish--which she plans to use to find her long-missing mother. Dana, who's a fairly tough kid, shows her courage as she avoids a dangerous pursuit, deals with the unpredictable boggles, and makes various allies, some from across the reaches of time. She also gets tired and dirty and hungry and hurt, which pleased me because writers of quests often forget to show that.

There's a subplot involving humans trying to save old-growth forests, and another about Dana's father's new love interest (who threatens Dana's loyalty to her lost mother). We also see a little overlap with the other two books, although this one stands alone nicely.

The most important thing I can say about this book is that it's written in medium-high fantasy style, but it works. Melling has a way of drawing you into her story, and even when characters are taking themselves a bit too seriously, you buy it because Melling's writing keeps you well and truly caught, like a fairy spell. I could quibble with a few moments from the plot, and the quest format isn't one of my favorites, but I don't want to fuss because the fact remains that The Light-Bearer's Daughter is simply a good book. The way Melling brings the subplots together in the end is particularly satisfying--especially in terms of teen wish fulfillment!

She'd risk her life for a wish.......2007-05-18

Dana's Mom left her musician father and her long before Dana could remember. Bits and pieces of memories haunt her still. When Dana hears that her Dad's got a dream job in faraway Toronto, her biggest fear is that her Mom can't find them should she choose to come back.

When Queen Honor consort of the High King of Faery contacts her for help, Dana agrees willingly knowing that her dearest wish will be granted if she accomplishes the task they set for her--deliver a message to Lugh, the King of Wicklow. The message: "A shadow is crossing the land. The enemy rises. Where is the light to bridge the darkness?"

It's a hard quest for a 12-year-old and even Honor has cause to regret setting such a task for a young girl, but Dana continues on despite offers to have someone else complete the errand. She means to have her dearest wish--her own Mom home. She also sees how the light is leaving the land: male boggles are without their females, humans are destroying the trees, the last Irish wolf has left the country. Something needs to be done and she's willing to risk her life to do it.

Melling's knowledge of Irish language and folklore make this book a compelling and educational read for people of all ages. She spins a fine tale you won't want to put down.

The Book of Dreams (Chronicles of Faerie)

Average customer rating:

One of the best Fantasy Fiction
Very good
A great journey for young adults
Glad I picked it up

The Book of Dreams (Chronicles of Faerie)
O. R. Melling
Manufacturer: Penguin Books Canada
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

ASIN: 0141004347

Customer Reviews:

One of the best Fantasy Fiction.......2004-08-25

Fantasy is my favourite genre. It's compelling, it's mystical, and it's very exciting, having every point of perspective, and every original idea.

This is one of the best books to read if you want to get lost in the world of fantasy. I almost cried when the book was over, because it was so brilliant. Yes, it was a bit draggy, and the ending wasn't explained too properly, but the plots, the ideas, the exquisite description of every single detail makes up for all that. I highly reccomend this book to anyone who loves fantasy. It almost made me beleive in faeries!

Very good.......2004-04-08

This book was really great i think O.R.Melling is a great storyteller. This book had adventure happiness sadness every emotion you could think about. I am Irish Canaian and i am so happy she mixed the magic into canada because it is a really magical place it is very beautiful just like ireland i really like that twist. I have read everyone of her books and this one was really good. The only thing i didn't really like was the ending i wish she would have went into a little bit more detail(you'll see if you read it) but overall i really recommend this book. i loved it and i hope if you are a great fantasy lover you love it to :)

A great journey for young adults.......2003-12-01

I have been a big O.R. Melling fan for years, and as the previous reviewer mentioned, this book helped me restore my faith in her ability to take me to a dreamworld filled with enchantment.

The story begins two years after the Light Bearer's Daughter left off, and fans of the original two novels in the series will be delighted to know that Gwen and Laurel play a significant part in the story, as two graduate students trying to save Faerie. The story's real heroine, though, is 13-year-old Dana, who has not yet adjusted to life in Canada since she moved from Ireland. As dark forces threaten to cut the bond between the faerie and human world forever, Dana stands as the last hope of uniting them. Naturally, she has a little help from some new friends, including a rather sexy French-Canadian boy named Jean. *Sigh- if only I were seven years younger.*

I loved how O.R. Melling brought the faerie world to Canada and made me believe that there was magic in my own country. Like Dana I used to believe I would have to go to Ireland to find it but now I see that it really is everywhere. If the dialogue or writing seems a little hokey sometimes, it's only because of the nature of the plot. If you are willing to suspend your disbelief, you will be so caught up in the quest you won't even notice it.

At over 500 pages, this page-turner will keep you engrossed for many days. While the series has deflated a little with each book, this fourth one will bring back some of the magic that made the first book such a treat.

Glad I picked it up.......2003-11-08

After Light Bearer's Daughter (which I did not like at all), I had lost faith in O. R. Melling but this book has restored it. Dana was not so annoying and I got to hear about grown up Gwen and Laurel, which was nice (and actually the only reason I picked it up at all). I got a kick out of Dana's aunts every time that they showed up. I only wish that the original Company of Seven would have had a larger role. All in all, this was a nice way to round off the series. I know now that I shouldn't have bothered to read Light Bearer's Daughter as it didn't really add anything. My advice to anyone out there who has read Hunter's Moon or Summer King (both excellent) is to just skip straight to this installment, which is of equal quality.

Average customer rating:

Not Free SF Reader
Excellent Modern Children's Literature
Not for kids
A wonderful story...
Ho Hum Drum

Faerie Wars
Herbie Brennan
Manufacturer: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1582348103

Book Description

When Henry Atherton helps Mr. Fogarty clean up around his house, he expects to find a mess and a cranky old man; what he doesn't expect to find is Pyrgus Malvae, crown prince of the Faerie realm, who has escaped the treacherous Faeries of the Night by traveling to the human world through a portal powered by trapped lightning. An egomaniacal demon prince, greedy glue factory owners Brimstone and Chalkhill, and the nefarious Lord Hairstreak, leader of the Faeries of the Night, all dream of ruling the Faerie realm and are out to kill Pyrgus. Enlisting the help of his sister, Holly Blue, and his new friend, Henry, Pyrgus must get back to the Faerie world alive before one of his many enemies gets to him instead. But how many portals are open, and can Pyrgus find the right one before it falls into the wrong hands? Conjuring scenes filled with vivid color, unforgettable detail, and fearless characters, author Herbie Brennan brings readers to the Faerie world, where nothing is ever what it seems and no one can be trusted.

Customer Reviews:

Not Free SF Reader.......2007-09-04

A novel aimed at the younger reader, but enjoyable enough. A young faerie noble is moved to the normal human world to keep him safe. He develops a friendship with a boy, and an older man, who happens to be of the scientific bent.

So, the two kids of different races get into trouble and danger, etc.

Excellent Modern Children's Literature.......2007-07-10

This is a superbly written YA fantasy which tells a highly original story, rare nowadays in the genre, and melds it with stark social and political criticism, obscure but important real word facts, and important life lessons for early teens in todays difficult social structure.
Brennan manages to propose groundbreaking theories, divulge little known facts, teach children to think outside the box, and to cope with the pains of a parental divorce very effectively within a short novel. Originality and character development are paramount, but Brennan is also an absolute master os suspense, in a league with even the bestsellers of the suspense genre itself, and teenagers and adults alike will be hard put to get to sleep on time when reading this one.
As for those who have deemed it inappropriate, I would counter that it's a YA book, not a children's book, and that covers ages 12 to 18. I'm sorry but Harry potter is a bit patronizing to many teenagers. Perhaps what the marketing may have meant is that if you have read all of the Harry Potter books, you just might be a year or two older than when you started them. This is certainly much tamer than what the average 13 year old is bombarded with every day in school and on television. And it no way shape or form suggests in any part of the book that everyone has had a homosexual relationship, despite what the previous reviewer erroneously stated. The reviewer may have misunderstood the words of a ten year old minor character in the novel, whose ignorance of the world and reality were made quite obvious by the author.

J. Lyon Layden
The Other Side of Yore

Not for kids.......2007-05-28

I cannot believe this is marketed torward kids. One character keeps swearing, and others try to explain that everyone has tried homosexual relationships. For grown-ups, this is okay, but I would never let my teen read this.

A wonderful story..........2006-10-26

This story is about two different worlds, and how they collide... in one world, the crown prince Pyrgus, who has been living as a commoner for the last few years, runs into trouble and is thrown into the 'human' world. In this analog 'human' world, he meets a character named Fogarty and his young housekeeping companion, Henry.

Henry, who is dealing with his parents painful separation, finds himself returning to the world of Faery, where Pyrgus is from, and becomes mixed up in a political plot and assisination.

This book will keep you guessing right up to the very end, and it will leave you very satisfied, yet wanting more. Fortunately, the second book of the series is already out.

Ho Hum Drum.......2006-08-07

Yes, this is for the young adult reader. The young adult reader will know when to skip labored descriptions and unnecessary dialogue. The meat of the book is fabulous, the naughty "nowness" will make you want to read it. I read it as a potential book for students I teach. It still does not solve my dilemma of where do fairies really come from... A fun quick read of fantasy It is a 4 star for the genre and a 3 star for interest. It develops conflict, but leaves you flat with the drama. It is difficult to 'feel the magic' when it is all given to you.

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