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annettebooksofhopeanddreams's review
4.0
Although I'm spending my time in the indie published book world for quite some time already, I hadn't heard about Kaitlyn Davis before I found the Raven and the Dove on Netgalley. I however fell in love with that book so when I discovered this series I knew I wanted to read it and when there was a great deal on the boxset on Amazon I had literally no arguments left not to buy it. So, when I needed a short story for today to read, I knew where to look.
And once more I really fell in love with Davis' writing style. Her world feels so vivid, even though she's not even describing it that detailed. All the emotions of her characters are also so easy to understand and feel. I don't feel like I'm just reading about it, I'm feeling with them and for them. And she's also a master in building tension and excitement. Even though it's very much a love at first side story, it works.
That's also because she takes the time to have the characters bond over more than just their pretty eyes and lovely hair. Of course, they notice that the other is pretty or handsome and they feel something they've never felt before. But it's not just that. They have honest and open conversations, they share things with the other and find common ground, they show that they care about the other and are willing to take risks or go against their own longings to keep the other safe. It feels like a solid base for a life long relationship.
I also really liked the small elements used from Aladdin. I have to admit that I'm not too familiar with the original tale, but it seemed that most inspiration came from Disney anyway. I loved the hide out, the tapestry, the genie, everything! And, although it clearly had the Aladdin elements, it still felt really fresh and original. And I especially loved the ending, because it was something I really hadn't seen coming!
I can't wait to read the rest of the series and I totally do not regret getting the boxset!
And once more I really fell in love with Davis' writing style. Her world feels so vivid, even though she's not even describing it that detailed. All the emotions of her characters are also so easy to understand and feel. I don't feel like I'm just reading about it, I'm feeling with them and for them. And she's also a master in building tension and excitement. Even though it's very much a love at first side story, it works.
That's also because she takes the time to have the characters bond over more than just their pretty eyes and lovely hair. Of course, they notice that the other is pretty or handsome and they feel something they've never felt before. But it's not just that. They have honest and open conversations, they share things with the other and find common ground, they show that they care about the other and are willing to take risks or go against their own longings to keep the other safe. It feels like a solid base for a life long relationship.
I also really liked the small elements used from Aladdin. I have to admit that I'm not too familiar with the original tale, but it seemed that most inspiration came from Disney anyway. I loved the hide out, the tapestry, the genie, everything! And, although it clearly had the Aladdin elements, it still felt really fresh and original. And I especially loved the ending, because it was something I really hadn't seen coming!
I can't wait to read the rest of the series and I totally do not regret getting the boxset!
roxananav's review
1.0
Judging by this book, I don't think I'm gonna read the next book of the series. It was pretty bad. It wasn't fantasy, nor romance. Not even a retelling, if you ask me. I didn't read the plot before, so this was my first blow. Not my cup of tea. And everything was rushed. No essence, no character development. I made a deal with myself when I was halfway through that I will give it 2 stars if I find something I like. That's it...
book_worm_04's review
4.0
My favorite fairytale is Aladdin so I knew that this was going to be a book I enjoyed! This book was very good I only wish that it was a full length novel.
courtofsmutandstuff's review
3.75
This was a nice novella! And I think it can either be read by itself (if you're looking for a one-off novella, particularly to help meet your Reading Challenge) or if you're reading the whole series, read it last after book 4 (I think it really should be listed 4.5 because while canonically it takes place first, on the day of the earthquake, it has a spoiler for book 4 which I think would be a bummer to be spoiled if you're planning on reading everything). I liked how sporty Alanna is (though I'm bummed we only get one handspring from her!) and I loved seeing Eric in his full power mode, since it was only so briefly shown at the end of Parting Worlds . This was a solid novella, though I think I would've liked to see a bit more with Alanna and her brother, but it makes sense why the book wraps up as quickly as it does.
klutzykat's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
abirademacher's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
brittradomski's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
fairytale42's review
2.0
Short review, but here's the basics:
1. Heroine is actually funny. She's got plenty of snark but also heart. I did like her.
2. There are so may contradictions here it's not even funny. She says she's never been with a guy, then mentions it later, mentions how magic works only to destroy it later, etc.
3. Plot is decent - I did enjoy the seriousness of the topic, but everything is wrapped up a bit too nicely for my tastes. Focuses too much on other things to really appreciate said seriousness, though.
4. The love story isn't a love story at all. There is NO basis for the relationship save physical attraction. "Love" my foot - this is just two idiot teenagers who wanna kiss somebody cute so badly it's stupid.
1. Heroine is actually funny. She's got plenty of snark but also heart. I did like her.
2. There are so may contradictions here it's not even funny. She says she's never been with a guy, then mentions it later, mentions how magic works only to destroy it later, etc.
3. Plot is decent - I did enjoy the seriousness of the topic, but everything is wrapped up a bit too nicely for my tastes. Focuses too much on other things to really appreciate said seriousness, though.
4. The love story isn't a love story at all. There is NO basis for the relationship save physical attraction. "Love" my foot - this is just two idiot teenagers who wanna kiss somebody cute so badly it's stupid.
lenni_loves_literature's review
4.0
Everything I love about this series! I do recommend reading it after you read the series, though. It’s much more understandable if you’ve read the books before this prequel.