"A Wizard of Earthsea" - Ursula K. Le Guin

      At first it seemed slow and too detailed on the surroundings at times but it wasn't too bad. Ged is a wizard but is originally taught by the town witch who recognizes his powers. Like anyone else gifted in magical ways the curiosity begins innocently of learning how to control animals and the elements.

      The town witch though also taught him crude things that he didn't enjoy. However, a story was rumored of his ability to help his town when in dire need using his powers.

     A famous wizard, Ogion, visited shortly after the incident to examine him and rename him. Though Ged was thirteen he was past his naming day and the Wizard renamed him and later on is known as 'Sparrowhawk'.

     Due to ignorance of the balance that must be maintained when using magic he conjures a dead spirit to prove his power to an enemy; resulting in the dead spirit attacking him because it seeks to control his body and powers. There is no protection from this spirit but the hunter becomes the hunted and he is aided by his best friend Vetch who also helped him while at the Wizard school.

     I liked the stories characters, yet I came to like Vetch more than Ged. It always had something going on but I couldn't really feel the suspense in myself. The vocabulary was basic except for the made up languages which I always enjoy.

     I liked that magical power was gained by knowing every things true name. I did like that it didn't end with a cliffhanger. I feel like it was original by the ways the wizards gained powers and that they would wear out over time. It had some original ideas and creatures as well.

                                                      By: J Feistner

"Seven Realms Series" By: Cinda Williams Chima

Seven Realms Series!

     I cannot believe that I forgot to blog about this since I chatted people's ear's off about it.

     This series follows two protagonists; Han Alister who is the gruff streetlord who unknowingly captures our other protagonist Raisa Ana-Helena the princess heir.

     What would a princess and streetlord share? Power, brilliance, and to keep Raisa on the throne. There is always someone to defeat and sometimes they distrust and hurt each other throughout the story. There are certain wizards who have taken control over the Queen and seek to put their own magical children on the throne.

     Han does his best to keep his mother and sister fed and clothed by collecting plants and specialty items to sell at the traders market. While collecting in the forest with his best friend Dancer a wizard tries to discipline him for not bowing when he passed by. In the end Han takes his amulet so that he will never use it against him and the chase ensues as the Bayars (Wizard Family) seeks to take it back.

     Not only is he sought by the Bayars but some street murders have been committed and he has the blame despite his innocence. With the city patrol and Bayars after him they strike back and burn his attic room with his sister and mother in it.

     Raisa recognizes that her mother is being controlled but is also of Demonai blood and tries to seek refuge at Marisa Pines Camp when her mother arranges a forbidden marriage for her. Her royal guard and childhood friend Amon looks after her protection and takes her to military school to hide while assassins and once thought friends seek to end her life.

     I simply love fantasy. I found the characters realistic and I liked the fact that they didn't always get along but also hurt each other which is more realistic. The plot is simple but there is a lot packed into each book. The writing style was for YA but I would find words not normally used and the description of the room and non important details were kept short and precise. I normally feel like with a series that authors lose their touch after the second or third book in.
     
     However I love this series because the high quality was kept to the end. I greatly respect Cinda William Chima for the hard work that is evident in her series. This would make a great Christmas present. And if you could send me one that would be nice too! Ha ha ha ha ha ha.

Comment below and tell me some of your favorite books and I will select one to read and review!

                 By: J Feistner

"The Lovers Dictionary" David Levithan

I just finished this book yesterday. Its definitely a quick read and there isn't a specific plot to follow. And you might wonder, "Well then why should I read the book?"

Good question. Not only is it cute but it teaches that a lover isn't just a one night stand or a call lover. Rather a lover is a person who puts their whole heart and mind into a relationship for good and bad. There is more to love than just sex.

While reading you learn about the authors life and observations about trust and forgiveness. While reading it I also thought about my own marriage. There were times when my opinion and understanding differed from the authors but overall I agreed with his definitions and examples of all the words that make up lovers.

There are many funny moments included but nothing can make the reader feel so raw about it except the truth. It's that emotional connection we create as a reader that causes us to get angry, sad, or laugh out loud and this book touches on a very personal subject for everyone. I was impressed with the vocabulary and the great examples to teach what the words really meant.

I don't believe it matters what our expectations out of life and love are. He boils it down to where it can apply to everyone and educate those who've never caught onto the concept. It is also a quick read. It took me a few days because I was reading it on my breaks at work and at night before bed. Spread the love and share a book. :)

                                                                           - J. Feistner

What Happened!

     Sorry there has been nothing but static lately. We graduated from college, had to find jobs, move and get settled. Now that all that chaos is over and handled I will get back in to reviewing books. I haven't been not reading of course. I always need a story to read. I actually finished the "Seven Realms" series that I will review later this week. I also read, "The Screwtape Letters". I am going to the library to pick up more books to read as well. Sorry about the non vacancy but I'm back! :D