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svillanu's review
3.0
the plot ended halfway through the book. Every chapter after had a good ending line. But it still had like 5 more. For no reason. Cute I guess.
queendarcy's review
2.0
Actual rating: 1.5 stars
While the first two books were just "not that good" this book WAS HORRIBLE. It annoyed the hell out of me and here's a list of reasons why because I'm just that good:
- the writing gets SO. REPETITIVE. The characters keep mentioning stuff we already went through and discussed and let's not forget about....
- the nicknames -.- he literally calls her his "match girl" 52 FREAKING TIMES....IN LESS THAN 250 PAGES. She's no better, she keeps calling him her "tin soldier" throughout the book even though they a) have names b) know what they are c) have already called each other by their first names plenty of times before so why go back to something you did in the first book when you didn't know each other????
-remember that polar bear that's mentioned barely in the first book and then we never hear of it again? Well, it's back, but just for a couple of pages so it can help the MCs get out of an impossible situation (deus ex machina...yay) before IT DISAPPEARS FOREVER, AGAIN.
-the main villain is SO.DUMB. He literally has these 2 idiots who are trying to stop his evil plans in his hands and instead of shooting them right away, he is playing ridiculous mind games with his soldiers and basically "stalling" just enough so, once again, the MCs can be saved by a third person who wasn't even mentioned once before -.-
-even though there are like a million soldiers pointing guns at them, the MCs manage to do basically anything they want - escape, fight back and eventually overpower all of them and do whatever they wanted in the first place...
+ the fact that there are ~3 more chapters after everything has been resolved/the world saved that contain NOTHING except the MCs saying they love each other in 2924720 different ways????? WHY???? If it were just the one, like an epilogue of sorts where they finally confess their feelings and we see the HEA or whatever, it'd be fine. BUT WHY ARE THERE MORE???? Like the first one wasn't cringey enough?
While the first two books were just "not that good" this book WAS HORRIBLE. It annoyed the hell out of me and here's a list of reasons why because I'm just that good:
- the writing gets SO. REPETITIVE. The characters keep mentioning stuff we already went through and discussed and let's not forget about....
- the nicknames -.- he literally calls her his "match girl" 52 FREAKING TIMES....IN LESS THAN 250 PAGES. She's no better, she keeps calling him her "tin soldier" throughout the book even though they a) have names b) know what they are c) have already called each other by their first names plenty of times before so why go back to something you did in the first book when you didn't know each other????
-remember that polar bear that's mentioned barely in the first book and then we never hear of it again? Well, it's back, but just for a couple of pages so it can help the MCs get out of an impossible situation (deus ex machina...yay) before IT DISAPPEARS FOREVER, AGAIN.
-the main villain is SO.DUMB. He literally has these 2 idiots who are trying to stop his evil plans in his hands and instead of shooting them right away, he is playing ridiculous mind games with his soldiers and basically "stalling" just enough so, once again, the MCs can be saved by a third person who wasn't even mentioned once before -.-
-even though there are like a million soldiers pointing guns at them, the MCs manage to do basically anything they want - escape, fight back and eventually overpower all of them and do whatever they wanted in the first place...
+ the fact that there are ~3 more chapters after everything has been resolved/the world saved that contain NOTHING except the MCs saying they love each other in 2924720 different ways????? WHY???? If it were just the one, like an epilogue of sorts where they finally confess their feelings and we see the HEA or whatever, it'd be fine. BUT WHY ARE THERE MORE???? Like the first one wasn't cringey enough?
claire_luna's review
5.0
I received an ARC of this book from the author @mcfrankauthor in return for an honest review. Thank you!
I’ve been a huge fan of the No Ordinary Star Series since the very first installment (reviews of book one and book two) and I’m incredibly grateful to have been a beta reader for this amazing series.
In the final book of the trilogy, our main characters face their most intense challenges yet, in a tale that kept me turning page after page. New, fascinating aspects of the world are revealed and Felix and Astra (the protagonists) continue to surprise and astound. M. C. Frank continues as she began, with a captivating world, a thought-provoking story and characters to die for.
This book to me was all that I could have hoped for. Ending a story, especially one that has spanned 3 books is not easy, yet Frank manages it with a fine hand, staying true to the story and satisfying her readers.
If you haven’t read this series, please do yourself the favor and pick up No Ordinary Star and delve into a world of ice and lies, with two heroes about to set it on fire!
I’ve been a huge fan of the No Ordinary Star Series since the very first installment (reviews of book one and book two) and I’m incredibly grateful to have been a beta reader for this amazing series.
In the final book of the trilogy, our main characters face their most intense challenges yet, in a tale that kept me turning page after page. New, fascinating aspects of the world are revealed and Felix and Astra (the protagonists) continue to surprise and astound. M. C. Frank continues as she began, with a captivating world, a thought-provoking story and characters to die for.
This book to me was all that I could have hoped for. Ending a story, especially one that has spanned 3 books is not easy, yet Frank manages it with a fine hand, staying true to the story and satisfying her readers.
If you haven’t read this series, please do yourself the favor and pick up No Ordinary Star and delve into a world of ice and lies, with two heroes about to set it on fire!
noragracereads's review
1.0
(1 star) Bechdel Test: Fail
I wish I could say I liked this one. I really wish I could. I wanted to love it for Frank's sake, but it couldn't happen.
No Vain Loss is the third and final installment of M.C. Frank's No Ordinary Star YA sci-fi series. Felix and Astra are amongst the Rebels facing off General Kun, trying to prevent an apocalypse. To be completely honest, I was not able to distinguish most of the plot because of how disoriented I felt the entire time whilst reading.
In the past I've complained about the first two NOS installments move too slowly and nothing much happens in them. Perhaps I wasn't the only reviewer to find fault with this, because it feels like M.C. Frank took that constructive criticism and tried to fix it. Except Frank over fixed it, unfortunately. As Felix thinks several times during the narrative, every happens so fast that there's not much time to take it all in and understand what exactly is going on. While that sort of feeling is definitely good for a character to feel, it is NOT good for your audience to feel so lost, almost out of breath from trying to keep up with the dialogue and the narrative.
Because of the hyper fast-paced narrative, there is a distinct lack of plot development and an unfortunate disregard for detail necessary to keep the reader interested. I have only a vague idea of what the settings in NVL look like since Frank took very little time to establish them. It's sad because both NOS and NPR had excellent set building and excellent world building.
In addition, all of the wonderful moral and philosophical wisdom that I loved so much in parts one and two is completely absent from NVL. Frank mentions some interesting concepts, like law and health, but skates over them and we never hear of them again. Perhaps if Frank had expanded on so many of her wonderful ideas these books would be a lot longer, and NVL would be a lot more interesting. Because, and I'm truly disheartened to say, I lost complete interest about 25% into this installment. I forced myself through for the sake of this review so that I would be able to use the entire book to back my feelings. It took me a couple of weeks to actually get to the last page of this very short book.
I was entertained a number of times, however. But not for good reason. I was entertained only during the most ridiculous moments. One such moment has to be the most ludicrous "first kiss" scene I have ever read. Sounds extreme, but I assure you, it was in no way romantic. I could almost hear the cricket chirps echoing in my ears as it all played out...
Another thing that particularly saddened me was how downhill I felt Astra and Felix's relationship went. In terms of plot, their relationship predictably goes uphill. It should be no surprise that they end up together romantically in NVL. I don't even think that qualifies as a spoiler. We all saw it from a mile away in NOS. But in terms of character development within the relationship separate from the romantic subplot (they are not the same thing), Felix becomes the possessive male lover I absolutely cannot stand in YA literature. Or any literature. In addition, some of the things that Astra and Felix say to each other just blew my mind because they are so... mean. They're mean. Examples:
"'You know you mean everything to me,' she interrupts him. 'You're so stupid to even doubt that.'" (Astra)
"'You’d prefer if I was lying dead on the ice back there on the mountain, wouldn’t you?'" (Felix)
And then they're all lovey-dovey afterwards and everything is fine! Except it's not fine because never is it ok to call your partner stupid? Or say manipulative things like "you wish I was dead?" Couples argue. Arguing is natural and healthy. What isn't natural OR healthy is the kind of dialogue Felix and Astra have for most of the book.
I'm not done with this world that Frank has created. I want to know more if she is willing to sit down and take a little more time to write a more in-depth, longer installment of what exactly this world is. The themes of love and sacrifice and freedom are all there, sitting just beneath the surface of the text. They just need to be pulled apart, slowly and carefully.
I wish I could say I liked this one. I really wish I could. I wanted to love it for Frank's sake, but it couldn't happen.
No Vain Loss is the third and final installment of M.C. Frank's No Ordinary Star YA sci-fi series. Felix and Astra are amongst the Rebels facing off General Kun, trying to prevent an apocalypse. To be completely honest, I was not able to distinguish most of the plot because of how disoriented I felt the entire time whilst reading.
In the past I've complained about the first two NOS installments move too slowly and nothing much happens in them. Perhaps I wasn't the only reviewer to find fault with this, because it feels like M.C. Frank took that constructive criticism and tried to fix it. Except Frank over fixed it, unfortunately. As Felix thinks several times during the narrative, every happens so fast that there's not much time to take it all in and understand what exactly is going on. While that sort of feeling is definitely good for a character to feel, it is NOT good for your audience to feel so lost, almost out of breath from trying to keep up with the dialogue and the narrative.
Because of the hyper fast-paced narrative, there is a distinct lack of plot development and an unfortunate disregard for detail necessary to keep the reader interested. I have only a vague idea of what the settings in NVL look like since Frank took very little time to establish them. It's sad because both NOS and NPR had excellent set building and excellent world building.
In addition, all of the wonderful moral and philosophical wisdom that I loved so much in parts one and two is completely absent from NVL. Frank mentions some interesting concepts, like law and health, but skates over them and we never hear of them again. Perhaps if Frank had expanded on so many of her wonderful ideas these books would be a lot longer, and NVL would be a lot more interesting. Because, and I'm truly disheartened to say, I lost complete interest about 25% into this installment. I forced myself through for the sake of this review so that I would be able to use the entire book to back my feelings. It took me a couple of weeks to actually get to the last page of this very short book.
I was entertained a number of times, however. But not for good reason. I was entertained only during the most ridiculous moments. One such moment has to be the most ludicrous "first kiss" scene I have ever read. Sounds extreme, but I assure you, it was in no way romantic. I could almost hear the cricket chirps echoing in my ears as it all played out...
Another thing that particularly saddened me was how downhill I felt Astra and Felix's relationship went. In terms of plot, their relationship predictably goes uphill. It should be no surprise that they end up together romantically in NVL. I don't even think that qualifies as a spoiler. We all saw it from a mile away in NOS. But in terms of character development within the relationship separate from the romantic subplot (they are not the same thing), Felix becomes the possessive male lover I absolutely cannot stand in YA literature. Or any literature. In addition, some of the things that Astra and Felix say to each other just blew my mind because they are so... mean. They're mean. Examples:
"'You know you mean everything to me,' she interrupts him. 'You're so stupid to even doubt that.'" (Astra)
"'You’d prefer if I was lying dead on the ice back there on the mountain, wouldn’t you?'" (Felix)
And then they're all lovey-dovey afterwards and everything is fine! Except it's not fine because never is it ok to call your partner stupid? Or say manipulative things like "you wish I was dead?" Couples argue. Arguing is natural and healthy. What isn't natural OR healthy is the kind of dialogue Felix and Astra have for most of the book.
I'm not done with this world that Frank has created. I want to know more if she is willing to sit down and take a little more time to write a more in-depth, longer installment of what exactly this world is. The themes of love and sacrifice and freedom are all there, sitting just beneath the surface of the text. They just need to be pulled apart, slowly and carefully.
shelfadmirer's review
4.0
Read full review @https://ecstaticyetchaotic.wordpress.com/2017/09/27/book-review-no-vain-loss-by-m-c-frank-nos3/
“You’re dreaming of a bloodless revolution, just like Christopher, Got him killed in the end. Much good that did to everyone. All we were left with was his loss. His vain loss.”
Felix is ready with his plan. Just as the clock strikes 12, he will show the world what a tyrant Chairman Kun is. But he needs hi ‘match girl’- Astra. He also needs the rebels and his soldiers. They show up eventually and the show begins. There’s a long fight between father and son with people getting hurt and dying. There’s blood all over the snow. A fight between the strongest person in the One World and a star Leuitenant is bound to go wrong at so many different levels.
There’s also a full-blown romance happening between Felix and Astra. Felix- who is still exploring the feeling of love is attracted to Astra and this attraction in what drives him towards his mission. Astra is his strength and his weakness.
But is defeating chairman Kun enough to bring peace and justice to one world? Could Felix prevent the spread of the virus or does Kun have another plan that Felix knows nothing about? Will he be able to avenge Christopher Steadfast?
Torn between saving Astra and his soldiers and creating an end to the confusion that will spread after Kun is defeated, Felix has a hard time trying to decide and fulfill his responsibilities as a citizen of Planet Earth.
The romance between Felix and Astra is such a welcoming sight (my heart did a little celebratory dance of its own). They are the perfect couple. Opposite in all ways but holding onto each other. Astra is witty and smart. Felix lacks humor and is more about physical strength.
The fight scenes have been elaborately described in the first half of the book. It get’s a bit dull sometimes with all the slow-motion descriptions but the plot twists are unexpected and interesting. We see more characters- each fascinating in their own way.
The ending of the series has been written so perfectly. It brought a smile to my lips because it was all I wanted (MY perfect ending).
This series has managed to break my heart and rejoin it in the most beautiful way possible. Love conquers all and sometimes that’s the only thing that keeps you going.
“You’re dreaming of a bloodless revolution, just like Christopher, Got him killed in the end. Much good that did to everyone. All we were left with was his loss. His vain loss.”
Felix is ready with his plan. Just as the clock strikes 12, he will show the world what a tyrant Chairman Kun is. But he needs hi ‘match girl’- Astra. He also needs the rebels and his soldiers. They show up eventually and the show begins. There’s a long fight between father and son with people getting hurt and dying. There’s blood all over the snow. A fight between the strongest person in the One World and a star Leuitenant is bound to go wrong at so many different levels.
There’s also a full-blown romance happening between Felix and Astra. Felix- who is still exploring the feeling of love is attracted to Astra and this attraction in what drives him towards his mission. Astra is his strength and his weakness.
But is defeating chairman Kun enough to bring peace and justice to one world? Could Felix prevent the spread of the virus or does Kun have another plan that Felix knows nothing about? Will he be able to avenge Christopher Steadfast?
Torn between saving Astra and his soldiers and creating an end to the confusion that will spread after Kun is defeated, Felix has a hard time trying to decide and fulfill his responsibilities as a citizen of Planet Earth.
The romance between Felix and Astra is such a welcoming sight (my heart did a little celebratory dance of its own). They are the perfect couple. Opposite in all ways but holding onto each other. Astra is witty and smart. Felix lacks humor and is more about physical strength.
The fight scenes have been elaborately described in the first half of the book. It get’s a bit dull sometimes with all the slow-motion descriptions but the plot twists are unexpected and interesting. We see more characters- each fascinating in their own way.
The ending of the series has been written so perfectly. It brought a smile to my lips because it was all I wanted (MY perfect ending).
This series has managed to break my heart and rejoin it in the most beautiful way possible. Love conquers all and sometimes that’s the only thing that keeps you going.
pagesfullofstars's review
5.0
"You have become the most brilliant star, even though you grew up in the fiercest of nights."
No Vain Loss is the third and final part of the No Ordinary Star trilogy and I can't believe it's over! It's been such a fun and wonderful adventure with these characters, the world created by M.C. Frank and their story, I'm surely going to go back to it in the future.
It's the year 2524 and the world hasn't known hunger and sickness for hundreds of years. Humans are created to live long lives but they also don't know what love or emotions are. In this futuristic world we meet Felix, a highly trained soldier who has been summoned to the North Pole by the Clockmaster. There he stumbles upon Astra, a fiery girl who, by the current law, shouldn't have been born. Together, they unveil a hidden library and a secret that wasn't supposed to see the light of the day...
No Vain Loss picks up right where No Plain Rebel left off and it gets even more exciting. I feel like the story could be divided into two parts. The first one is really fast-paced, full of unexpected twists and turns, and really kept me at the edge of my seat. And then the second part is slower but just as important, and leads us to the beautiful conclusion of this series. I admit that at first I got a little lost among all the action, but as soon as I figured out what's going on, I was glued to the book and very anxious to find out what's going to happen next.
The world created by M.C. Frank came alive once again. The dystopian reality in this series is both terrifying, yet strangely fascinating, and I really liked that we learned more about it even in this last installment. I just wished we could have more books, so that I could witness all that was going to happen after the ending! :) The writing style, as always, was really beautiful. What stands out to me in M.C. Frank's books is that even when they're targeted at young adult or new adult audience, the writing always reminds me of literary fiction works and she manages to keep a great balance between focusing on the characters and action.
And last but definitely not least, the characters! I simply adore how much growth the two main protagonists undergo in the whole trilogy, especially Felix. He starts as a very strict, prim and proper, trained to be a perfect soldier, but during all three books slowly opens up and lets himself discover and feel new things. It was amazing to witness that and see the character he became by the end, and his relationship with Astra. I also liked the unexpected addition of new characters.
All in all, No Vain Loss and the whole No Ordinary Star series is a truly great dystopian trilogy. It's creative and fresh, and rekindled my interest in the dystopian genre. If you like thrilling stories, this is the series for you!
I have kindly received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The review also appeared on my blog.
For more bookish goodies, check out my Tumblr and Instagram :)
No Vain Loss is the third and final part of the No Ordinary Star trilogy and I can't believe it's over! It's been such a fun and wonderful adventure with these characters, the world created by M.C. Frank and their story, I'm surely going to go back to it in the future.
It's the year 2524 and the world hasn't known hunger and sickness for hundreds of years. Humans are created to live long lives but they also don't know what love or emotions are. In this futuristic world we meet Felix, a highly trained soldier who has been summoned to the North Pole by the Clockmaster. There he stumbles upon Astra, a fiery girl who, by the current law, shouldn't have been born. Together, they unveil a hidden library and a secret that wasn't supposed to see the light of the day...
No Vain Loss picks up right where No Plain Rebel left off and it gets even more exciting. I feel like the story could be divided into two parts. The first one is really fast-paced, full of unexpected twists and turns, and really kept me at the edge of my seat. And then the second part is slower but just as important, and leads us to the beautiful conclusion of this series. I admit that at first I got a little lost among all the action, but as soon as I figured out what's going on, I was glued to the book and very anxious to find out what's going to happen next.
The world created by M.C. Frank came alive once again. The dystopian reality in this series is both terrifying, yet strangely fascinating, and I really liked that we learned more about it even in this last installment. I just wished we could have more books, so that I could witness all that was going to happen after the ending! :) The writing style, as always, was really beautiful. What stands out to me in M.C. Frank's books is that even when they're targeted at young adult or new adult audience, the writing always reminds me of literary fiction works and she manages to keep a great balance between focusing on the characters and action.
And last but definitely not least, the characters! I simply adore how much growth the two main protagonists undergo in the whole trilogy, especially Felix. He starts as a very strict, prim and proper, trained to be a perfect soldier, but during all three books slowly opens up and lets himself discover and feel new things. It was amazing to witness that and see the character he became by the end, and his relationship with Astra. I also liked the unexpected addition of new characters.
All in all, No Vain Loss and the whole No Ordinary Star series is a truly great dystopian trilogy. It's creative and fresh, and rekindled my interest in the dystopian genre. If you like thrilling stories, this is the series for you!
I have kindly received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The review also appeared on my blog.
For more bookish goodies, check out my Tumblr and Instagram :)
onemamareads's review
4.0
4.5 stars
This book is the conclusion to the No Ordinary Star trilogy; and, what a conclusion!
In a remote Northern location, a soldier named Felix will help to decide the fate of the One World. He will need the help of a rebel girl, Astra, to pull everything off. The fate of the entire planet rests on their shoulders. Can they save it?
This trilogy has been so intriguing from start to finish. There is a rich history woven in to each page, of a future that seems entirely possible. This connects the reader instantly with both the heroes, because the reader fears that this may be where we as a human race are headed. This novel also packs a lot of action into its few pages, so be prepared for edge of your seat reading, at a pace both excruciatingly slow and too fast (if that makes sense).
Felix, a soldier all of his life, is different. Somehow he can shed the skin of oppression, of tyrannical dictatorship, somehow he can still find the individual inside of himself. Despite all of the odds stacked against him, Felix can find a voice for change, for freedom, and for hope. His character is ferocious; however, underneath it all, he harbours a soft spot for a certain red headed rebel. If he is meant to be a leader, he means to be one who is not afraid to show weakness, to seek support and to trust in others (the opposite of the current regime). Felix has changed so much from his introduction in the first novel; from a "drone" with no emotions and a still heart, to a man who wears his beating heart on his sleeve.
Astra has always been headstrong. She fights for everything, and against everything. She inserts herself recklessly into dangerous situations, but does it without thought for herself, more as a strategy to protect those she believes are key to the revolution. Her character is amazing; a young woman who has suffered immeasurable pain and abuse, but who continues to push back. In this book, we see her strategic mind, her careful heart, and the softer side of this fiery redhead. While Felix learns to show his emotions, Astra learns to share hers, to share her burdens. They blend so effortlessly together, a beautiful love story you wish would never end.
The reader's fear for our intrepid heroes never abates, as they face one obstacle after another. At some points the novel felt unbelievably cyclical, repetitive in actions, but it is smoothed over by Felix actually saying what the reader is thinking, "how is this happening again?" Too funny! This lightens the mood in an otherwise chilling action sequence and endears him to the reader even more.
This is an epic love story, one that completely changes the reality surrounding it; so, be prepared to be heart broken, then healed, to fall in love with these two characters. Two beating hearts, whose lives have been about pain, loss, separation, loneliness, betrayal and death. Their ability to hope and love inspires.
To read more of my reviews go to www.onemamassummer.weebly.com/bookreviews
This book is the conclusion to the No Ordinary Star trilogy; and, what a conclusion!
In a remote Northern location, a soldier named Felix will help to decide the fate of the One World. He will need the help of a rebel girl, Astra, to pull everything off. The fate of the entire planet rests on their shoulders. Can they save it?
This trilogy has been so intriguing from start to finish. There is a rich history woven in to each page, of a future that seems entirely possible. This connects the reader instantly with both the heroes, because the reader fears that this may be where we as a human race are headed. This novel also packs a lot of action into its few pages, so be prepared for edge of your seat reading, at a pace both excruciatingly slow and too fast (if that makes sense).
Felix, a soldier all of his life, is different. Somehow he can shed the skin of oppression, of tyrannical dictatorship, somehow he can still find the individual inside of himself. Despite all of the odds stacked against him, Felix can find a voice for change, for freedom, and for hope. His character is ferocious; however, underneath it all, he harbours a soft spot for a certain red headed rebel. If he is meant to be a leader, he means to be one who is not afraid to show weakness, to seek support and to trust in others (the opposite of the current regime). Felix has changed so much from his introduction in the first novel; from a "drone" with no emotions and a still heart, to a man who wears his beating heart on his sleeve.
Astra has always been headstrong. She fights for everything, and against everything. She inserts herself recklessly into dangerous situations, but does it without thought for herself, more as a strategy to protect those she believes are key to the revolution. Her character is amazing; a young woman who has suffered immeasurable pain and abuse, but who continues to push back. In this book, we see her strategic mind, her careful heart, and the softer side of this fiery redhead. While Felix learns to show his emotions, Astra learns to share hers, to share her burdens. They blend so effortlessly together, a beautiful love story you wish would never end.
The reader's fear for our intrepid heroes never abates, as they face one obstacle after another. At some points the novel felt unbelievably cyclical, repetitive in actions, but it is smoothed over by Felix actually saying what the reader is thinking, "how is this happening again?" Too funny! This lightens the mood in an otherwise chilling action sequence and endears him to the reader even more.
This is an epic love story, one that completely changes the reality surrounding it; so, be prepared to be heart broken, then healed, to fall in love with these two characters. Two beating hearts, whose lives have been about pain, loss, separation, loneliness, betrayal and death. Their ability to hope and love inspires.
To read more of my reviews go to www.onemamassummer.weebly.com/bookreviews
ignitingpages's review
4.0
A huge thank you to M. C. Frank, the author of this wonderful series, for sending me an e-arc of No Vain Loss. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
First and foremost, how gorgeous is the cover of this book? Honestly, I could stare at it all day. The entire series has beautiful covers, to match the beautiful story written inside. I also love how at the beginning of each instalment, there is a quick blurb which summarises the whole plot, making it easier to remember some key events. If all books had this, I would be eternally grateful because I have such a bad memory when it comes to remembering plots and such.
The first couple of chapters jumped straight into the action, which No Plain Rebel had built up too. I’m glad that it did because it definitely kept my interest and had me hooked into the book. My heart was continuously racing as I prayed and hoped no one from Felix’s crew got hurt because I grew attached to them. AND URSA OUR FAVOURITE POLAR RETURNS! I actually love her so much and am saddened we don’t get to see much of her after No Ordinary Star.
If you’ve read my previous reviews for No Ordinary Star and No Plain Rebel, you would know that I ADORE all the characters in this novel, and No Vain Loss only increased my love for them. Felix’s loyalty to his friends and reckless bravery could be considered admirable. I feel if he were to go to Hogwarts, he’d be placed in Gryffindor. And Astra is still as fiery as ever and I love her and her relationship with Felix. They are definite couple goals and I’d definitely read another book on them.
Karim was only recently introduced in No Plain Rebel and this book made me fall in love with him even more. He is amusing and reminds me greatly of Kenji from Shatter Me, who I absolutely adore so the comparison means a lot haha. I really do wish we had gotten the chance to get to known him even more because I know he’d be an interesting character to watch develop.
There were many twists and turns that were unexpected, which kept me on my feet and made me want to turn the page, even when I was tired. I think this is the fastest I’ve ever read an e-book too, that’s just how good it is. The author’s writing has a poetic flow and describes everything vividly but not overdoing it at the same time.
The ending of No Vain Loss was a little more calming than the beginning, but it was still satisfying so I don’t mind. Plus, it was a great way to end the trilogy/instalment. I promise you will be pleased with the ending. Even so, I keep denying to myself that this story is over because I loved it so much that I just want more of it. I also really want to see more of the characters and just to see them get to know each other and learn all the things that were forgotten in history. Just one more book please?
If you haven’t read this series, you definitely should, especially if you’re looking for a fast paced read. Each book is only about 200-300 pages long so you’d be able to fly through them quickly (and they can contribute to your Goodreads goal if you’re behind ;)).
No Vain Loss comes out on December 5th this year, and is this series is the perfect Christmas read because it has some Christmas feels to it and is set around that time.
First and foremost, how gorgeous is the cover of this book? Honestly, I could stare at it all day. The entire series has beautiful covers, to match the beautiful story written inside. I also love how at the beginning of each instalment, there is a quick blurb which summarises the whole plot, making it easier to remember some key events. If all books had this, I would be eternally grateful because I have such a bad memory when it comes to remembering plots and such.
The first couple of chapters jumped straight into the action, which No Plain Rebel had built up too. I’m glad that it did because it definitely kept my interest and had me hooked into the book. My heart was continuously racing as I prayed and hoped no one from Felix’s crew got hurt because I grew attached to them. AND URSA OUR FAVOURITE POLAR RETURNS! I actually love her so much and am saddened we don’t get to see much of her after No Ordinary Star.
If you’ve read my previous reviews for No Ordinary Star and No Plain Rebel, you would know that I ADORE all the characters in this novel, and No Vain Loss only increased my love for them. Felix’s loyalty to his friends and reckless bravery could be considered admirable. I feel if he were to go to Hogwarts, he’d be placed in Gryffindor. And Astra is still as fiery as ever and I love her and her relationship with Felix. They are definite couple goals and I’d definitely read another book on them.
Karim was only recently introduced in No Plain Rebel and this book made me fall in love with him even more. He is amusing and reminds me greatly of Kenji from Shatter Me, who I absolutely adore so the comparison means a lot haha. I really do wish we had gotten the chance to get to known him even more because I know he’d be an interesting character to watch develop.
There were many twists and turns that were unexpected, which kept me on my feet and made me want to turn the page, even when I was tired. I think this is the fastest I’ve ever read an e-book too, that’s just how good it is. The author’s writing has a poetic flow and describes everything vividly but not overdoing it at the same time.
The ending of No Vain Loss was a little more calming than the beginning, but it was still satisfying so I don’t mind. Plus, it was a great way to end the trilogy/instalment. I promise you will be pleased with the ending. Even so, I keep denying to myself that this story is over because I loved it so much that I just want more of it. I also really want to see more of the characters and just to see them get to know each other and learn all the things that were forgotten in history. Just one more book please?
If you haven’t read this series, you definitely should, especially if you’re looking for a fast paced read. Each book is only about 200-300 pages long so you’d be able to fly through them quickly (and they can contribute to your Goodreads goal if you’re behind ;)).
No Vain Loss comes out on December 5th this year, and is this series is the perfect Christmas read because it has some Christmas feels to it and is set around that time.
booksteacupnreviews's review
5.0
Note: I received review copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. I’m really grateful to be part of NOS street team.
4.5 Stars
What's in the book- With the beginning of year 2525, Felix completes the work of clock master. Reveal his finding of the One World and Chairman, bring forward the truth. And proves that loss of the person who tried to save the world was not in vain.
The clock that was meant to be symbol of peace will begin the war. What will happen when Felix tells the truth to the world?
This book starts literally at climax. It was damn hard to write review on the book that itself is climax. Plus I just read it through and through without stopping to note down the point. You will feel all the thrill and shrill that you can expect from the climax in just 2/3 part of this book. The books was about understanding the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and humanity. It also showed the consequences of war and power greed.
Characters- Felix and Astra were so amazing in this book. These words totally defines them – Natural, emotional, smart, sensible, and sensitive, sense of right and wrong, most important ability to love. It’s hard not to love these two beautiful souls of the book. They are my favorite One True Pairing now.
Ursa- Polar Bear– my favorite character from the first installment. I can’t tell you guys how happy I was to see her in the book again. She was such a brilliant creature in the book and the timing of her entry was so unexpected and super cool. So if you guys loved this bear in the first book, I’m sure you don’t want to miss this one.
Karim– This dude is taking place in my heart. He was awesome in this book. All his actions and dialogues were coolest. Specially that one when he explained why he came to help Felix.
What I liked-
Coverrrrrrrr – any doubts!! This whole series has awesomest, most beautiful cover.
Characterrrr- Isn’t that obvious after what I told you about characters.
Authorrrrrrrr- for writing this icy cool, speedy, captivating, action-packed installment.
And of course concept of creative dystopian world and the way it was told in 3 parts. this last part made the perfect end of the series. Book starts with the end of the second book. First chapter first page gave the brief idea who was Felix and what he did in the first 2 books. So whoever in case forgot the story, can recall all events. Writing was captivating from the beginning, it felt like coming from a storyteller. This first chapter would sound most spellbinding one in the audio book, I bet.
I loved the way Felix planned to disclose the truth. It was risky and stupid yet brilliant and simple. Reunion of Felix and Astra was so romantic I was reading the whole scene with goofy smile plastered on my face. It was pretty amazing how two totally different person grown up in the world where even touching a woman considered crime fell in love and started a fire in the world. In this book only I truly got the meaning of character’s name Match Girl and Tin soldier.
This book will be the cause of arrhythmia. I had so many irregular heartbeat while reading this book and I almost forgot how many times I missed my heartbeat. All the tension and action in the first half of the book was so trilling, exciting and was so unpredictable. It was like the winning flag constantly slipping from hero to enemy, and back and forth.
First half the story was narrated by Felix. When I thought this book was seeing its early end, there came unexpected twist. Good lord! What a twist! And the narration was switched to match girl from this point on. There was few new revelation as well. Astra’s bravery was most surprising in the second half.
Development of Felix and Astra by the end of the book, their understanding for the war, sacrifice, and love was remarkable. Best thing was whole that portion where title of the book was justified. Those words by 3 characters in 3 different meaning from their perspective – one as a disappointment, another for sacrifice and third understanding those sacrifices- was most beautiful and was just perfect.
This was the fastest book I ever read, best one sitting book. I thought to take this book on vacation but ended up reading in one day before leaving for vacation.
End- I was not expecting the end at this point. It was open ended but there is no hint of next book/series or epilogue. So I was just guessing what might have happened. I just hope author decide to write sequel of this series.
That half star I cut because there is No epilogue. I wanted to read more. I was expecting at least hint for what happened next. :((
Overall, this installment was full of action and surprises, twist and turns, perfect YA romance and unique last book of icy dystopian world.
4.5 Stars
What's in the book- With the beginning of year 2525, Felix completes the work of clock master. Reveal his finding of the One World and Chairman, bring forward the truth. And proves that loss of the person who tried to save the world was not in vain.
The clock that was meant to be symbol of peace will begin the war. What will happen when Felix tells the truth to the world?
This book starts literally at climax. It was damn hard to write review on the book that itself is climax. Plus I just read it through and through without stopping to note down the point. You will feel all the thrill and shrill that you can expect from the climax in just 2/3 part of this book. The books was about understanding the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and humanity. It also showed the consequences of war and power greed.
Characters- Felix and Astra were so amazing in this book. These words totally defines them – Natural, emotional, smart, sensible, and sensitive, sense of right and wrong, most important ability to love. It’s hard not to love these two beautiful souls of the book. They are my favorite One True Pairing now.
Ursa- Polar Bear– my favorite character from the first installment. I can’t tell you guys how happy I was to see her in the book again. She was such a brilliant creature in the book and the timing of her entry was so unexpected and super cool. So if you guys loved this bear in the first book, I’m sure you don’t want to miss this one.
Karim– This dude is taking place in my heart. He was awesome in this book. All his actions and dialogues were coolest. Specially that one when he explained why he came to help Felix.
What I liked-
Coverrrrrrrr – any doubts!! This whole series has awesomest, most beautiful cover.
Characterrrr- Isn’t that obvious after what I told you about characters.
Authorrrrrrrr- for writing this icy cool, speedy, captivating, action-packed installment.
And of course concept of creative dystopian world and the way it was told in 3 parts. this last part made the perfect end of the series. Book starts with the end of the second book. First chapter first page gave the brief idea who was Felix and what he did in the first 2 books. So whoever in case forgot the story, can recall all events. Writing was captivating from the beginning, it felt like coming from a storyteller. This first chapter would sound most spellbinding one in the audio book, I bet.
I loved the way Felix planned to disclose the truth. It was risky and stupid yet brilliant and simple. Reunion of Felix and Astra was so romantic I was reading the whole scene with goofy smile plastered on my face. It was pretty amazing how two totally different person grown up in the world where even touching a woman considered crime fell in love and started a fire in the world. In this book only I truly got the meaning of character’s name Match Girl and Tin soldier.
This book will be the cause of arrhythmia. I had so many irregular heartbeat while reading this book and I almost forgot how many times I missed my heartbeat. All the tension and action in the first half of the book was so trilling, exciting and was so unpredictable. It was like the winning flag constantly slipping from hero to enemy, and back and forth.
First half the story was narrated by Felix. When I thought this book was seeing its early end, there came unexpected twist. Good lord! What a twist! And the narration was switched to match girl from this point on. There was few new revelation as well. Astra’s bravery was most surprising in the second half.
Development of Felix and Astra by the end of the book, their understanding for the war, sacrifice, and love was remarkable. Best thing was whole that portion where title of the book was justified. Those words by 3 characters in 3 different meaning from their perspective – one as a disappointment, another for sacrifice and third understanding those sacrifices- was most beautiful and was just perfect.
This was the fastest book I ever read, best one sitting book. I thought to take this book on vacation but ended up reading in one day before leaving for vacation.
End- I was not expecting the end at this point. It was open ended but there is no hint of next book/series or epilogue. So I was just guessing what might have happened. I just hope author decide to write sequel of this series.
That half star I cut because there is No epilogue. I wanted to read more. I was expecting at least hint for what happened next. :((
Overall, this installment was full of action and surprises, twist and turns, perfect YA romance and unique last book of icy dystopian world.
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