What a wonderful fantasy world! I had no expectations going into this book, I had never read anything by this author before. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was totally immersed from the start. It is reminiscent of other books I had read in the fantasy genre, but unique in its own way. The mystery kept unraveling, and the story was easy to follow. Jana was a great MC to follow, and there were several plot twists I did not see coming. Will definitely be looking for more from this author!
I loved the detail in this book! From the first few words, the author had my attention and imagination in an almost poetic world. I normally keep away from YA, mostly because the detail fails to hold my attention, but this story proved to be food for my mind and kept me enraptured! What starts out as an adventure to the court soon turns to a complete one-eighty of what Adrijana once considered her life. Fantasy and mystery at its finest, set in a complex world where I feel just about anything is possible, if you’re still on the fence about reading this book, trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
I was definitely intrigued when I read what this book was about. I wasn’t all to sure what I’d find in the pages or how I’d feel with the overall story, but I was definitely excited. And boy am I glad I got it. This story to me felt fresh and original and with how much I read I sometimes find it hard to find that but this author definitely knew this story need written. From page one I was drawn in and simply couldn’t put it down. The characters are complex and draw you so completely into their world that the real world has a way of disappearing for the time being. It’s a story full of fantasy and mystery that will keep you on your toes. Four big stars and highly recommended to all readers younger and older!
This is a book I will keep on my bookshelf to read again and recommend to all. A story about a young woman who falls into a role at court that she never expected. However, every court has an underbelly. With deceit, murder, and magic appearing at every turn, can Adrijana save the kingdom? The Mesmerist contains heart, tragedy, and blind loyalties. This is a book for all readers who love a good story line that keeps you guessing! I can’t wait to read more from this author!
This was a great read. It grabbed and held my attention to the very end. The characters are great and captivating. The unraveling mystery kept up with the right details and played out well. I’m hoping there will be more of this line.
This book was amazing. I wasn’t expecting the way the book was going to go. It really kept me guessing on what was going to happen next. Things just seemed like they weren’t going the right way for Adrijana and just when you think it starts to get better, something else happens to her. A girl learning about what happened to her in the past and then trying to figure it all out on her own. I couldn’t put it down and really enjoyed reading about Adrijana learning everything she is and what she can do. I really hope there is going to be more to her story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Reimerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Reimer2022-02-21 20:08:352022-02-21 20:08:35The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Jennifer Reimer
This was an excellent read. This book is full of mystery, intrigue, fantasy, secrets, danger, romance, twists and turns and so much more. I was pulled in from the start and couldn’t put it down until I got to the end. I was kept on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next and who could or couldn’t be trusted. This story is full of wonderful characters that change and grow throughout the story. I found this story to be original and entertaining. This is a must read story. I can’t wait to read more books by this author. I highly recommend this book.
I believe I may have found my new favorite author!
This incredible tale surrounds the struggle experienced by a naive but brilliant young lady, Adrijana once she visits the Adrjssian court. Within the first few chapters, we soon learn that a killer is amongst them. Multiple characters exude confidence and charisma, but the question they must answer is, who is trustworthy?
I found this book to be incredibly well written and exceedingly easy to read. I loved how the author allowed the story to build while watching the young Adrijana attempt to deal with constant trials and conflicting emotions with a very sheltered upbringing. On top of this, we become enveloped in the construction of her new life as an inexperienced Mesmerist. The different factions are very mysterious after learning of a small portion of what makes them tick, so I look forward to reading more by the author if/when she creates more titles that will dive deeper into each, especially the unsympathetic Vruk clan.
The hunt for the genuine assassin proves to be quite complex. While Adrijana is learning as she goes, I think the lessons learned within this story will help build her character for more story lines in the future.
I have absolutely nothing to say that I disliked about this book, as I found it very entertaining and I embraced the plot immediately.
Overall, I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. The Mesmerist
This is a story of a young, farm girl who goes to court. There she learns something special about herself, she is a Mesmer. She can read people’s emotions by seeing their oras. Soon after she arrives, the queen is murdered. As more people continue to die, Adrijana works with the other Mesmers to find the killer. Opinion This book is a must read for young adult fans. Not only is it a must read, it should be put at the top of your TBR pile. I was consumed by this story. Every twist and turn made me think about who was the guilty person. The clues are laid out so well that they are easy to overlook. This book was an absolute joy to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Brownhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Brown2022-02-19 07:38:382022-02-19 07:38:38The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Dawn Brown
This book was SO GOOD! The author did a really good job in weaving this fantasy crime novel, while making it fun, engaging and hard to put down! I was drawn at first to this cover, it’s absolutely gorgeous, and honestly wasnt sure what to expect but I definitely wasn’t disappointed! The characters were very well written and had a ton of depth to them. They (and the storyline itself) were engaging and I felt like I was right there in the book with them. I have read books from this author before, but this one was so different I was shocked! It felt like reading a completely new author. This book wasn’t disappointing and I highly recommend it!
Adrijana longs for more out of life. She accepts an invitation for her and her father to stay for a celebration thinking this is the opening she has been seeking. However, she quickly learns that life is not always as it seems. Her world comes crashing down around her when she finds out her father has kept her true heritage from her since she was five years old. She has to come to grips quickly with who she is as the royal family is being murdered one by one. In a world of intrigue, secrets, and hidden agendas, Adrijana has to learn quickly who she can trust and who she cannot before it is too late! Can she learn everything about being a mesmerist fast enough to find the true killer? Or will the killer succeed in taking out the royal family?
This is my first time reading this author and I was not disappointed! The story drew me in immediately and I didn’t want to put it down. There were strange things happening to her and I HAD to know what was going on. I was drawn in by Adrijana’s vulnerability and her emotions throughout the story. The lessons she learns are hard ones, but she refuses to roll over and give up. All the characters were intriguing, and the storyline kept me guessing until the end! I hope there will be more books in this world!
As far as I am aware this was my first book by Mrs. Luana. This book is a standalone novel and was rather interesting. It combined the flare of fantasy that has become popular with just the right amount of mystery that keeps the reader interested. The characters are easy to love and you find yourself rooting for Andrijana. You can’t help yourself from wanting to see her win.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amber Dayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmber Day2022-02-17 18:06:192022-02-17 18:31:34The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Amber Day
Immersed into a world where everything is not as it seems, Adrijana discovers her father’s dislike for visiting the capital is more than just a jaded view of an old man who’s lived through times of war. Among assassinations, plots and mysteries surrounding most everyone Adrijana meets in the city, she has to find her way and figure out whom she can trust, all while discovering a huge secret about her own hidden abilities and the newfound discrimination she faces because of the truth. This is a truly captivating story with twists and turns and an exciting tale to witness as it unfolds. Can’t wait to read what happens next!
From page one, I slipped into the telling of this story and never left. Such a well written tale of coming of age, court intrigue.. murder, young romance, mysticism and manipulation. Somehow the author packs every chapter full and still keeps us right on track, connected to the story. Thanks to well developed characters and a unique magical ability this is a book that will appeal almost everyone. My first read by this author, and I’m hoping there’s a Book 2 on its way!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Donna Dawkinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDonna Dawkin2022-02-17 07:39:512022-02-17 07:39:51The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Donna Dawkin
The Mesmerist was a great fantasy mystery read. The world building was fantastic, from the magic all the way to the country the story is set in. Jana was a well written protagonist, she gets thrown right into the thick of it quick into the book after the Queen was killed. She doesn’t have much time to think before she go into solving mode. Throughout the story, clues were introduced perfectly, just enough to keep you on the “who dun it” trail. I was continuously shocked and left wanting more at the end of each page. Jana is tested with truth, confidence, love, lust, lies and friendship throughout the book. The books leaves you satisfied with he resolution but leaves just enough open to allow for other books if decided. I would LOVE to have more books from this world and these characters.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Allison Davishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAllison Davis2022-02-16 07:40:382022-02-16 14:52:03The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Allison Davis
Great book! If you are looking for fantasy, adventure, heartbreak, as well as twists and turns along the way, this book is for you! I have always loved fantasy novels and in the past few years have found a new interest in mystery both of which were so wonderfully written in this book. The characters are mainly young adults, but the plotline is so intriguing, readers of any age would enjoy this! The characters are realistic and likable, but just like people, they all have their issues and learn how to cope with them throughout the book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jasmin Mariehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJasmin Marie2022-02-15 14:33:432022-02-15 17:55:22The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Jasmin Marie
I enjoyed walking through this world with Adrijana. I feel like we were on an adventure with her since she was learning everything along with us. I enjoyed this new world, but most of all I was caught up with the characters. The mystery and intrigue surrounding the characters definitely ramps up the plot because you don’t know who you can trust. I’m not sure if who appears to be a friend is actually a friend which is so realistic. I could not put this book down because I had to know what was going to happen. This is not a predictable story. Beautiful world, great characters, and unpredictable plot.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tina Vegahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTina Vega2022-02-13 21:45:442022-02-13 21:45:44The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Tina Vega
Adrijana a girl from a local village is dragged into the royal court after discovering a secret her father kept from her. She begins training with one of the royal Mesmers while she is at court and has to determine who she can trust while she is accused of many things while there.
This story will keep you on your toes and the author does a fantastic job bringing you into this world. You are drawn to the suspense of who is targeting the royal family and can Adrijana figure out what is happening.
I would definitely recommend this to Young Adult Fantasy readers! It was a great read and I hope to see more books in this world in the future.
Adrijana wants adventure. She has grown up helping her father on his farm. After an invitation from her best friend to come to the castle, she travels with her father when he takes his crops. She quickly finds more than she bargained for. She is accused of murdering the queen and finds out her past has been a lie. She finds new friends and new enemies, all while trying to learn her place and protecting the princess.
I highly recommend this to not only YA readers, but older readers as well. I throughly enjoyed being taken to this new world. The characters are very relatable and complex. You will find yourself trying to unravel the mysteries alongside Adrijana. I hope there will be a sequel in the future to find out more about her life.
I generally enjoyed this coming-of-age fantasy/mystery. The world-building was great, there were elements of mystery that made the novel more suspenseful, and I liked the main character Adrijana. Although this is marketed as young adult, I think it should be noted that there is a sexual assault and it seemed to just serve the plot. Anyhow, Adrijana is a strong, complex character who develops immensely throughout the novel, and I just really didn’t know who to trust. Read this if you like a lot of intense intrigue and political machinations.
Wow! What a phenomenal read! This author managed to create such an original storyline; I’ve honestly never read anything like it.
Right from the get go I was captivated, I was so intrigued by the characters and having a great time trying to piece everything together as the story went on. This is one of those books I was able to read in one sitting as I couldn’t bring myself to stop. I was so invested and enamoured with the vivid images playing out in my mind. I love how the author pulled everything together in such a seamless way.
This was my first book by this author but it will not be my last, I cannot wait to dive into another book by this talented author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kaitlynn Taylorhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKaitlynn Taylor2022-02-13 21:11:252022-02-13 21:11:25The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Kaitlynn Taylor
This book was mesmerizing. The plot was beautifully executed. The characters kept me on edge. I found myself wanting to figure out what was going to happen next with each page. I highly recommend it is a great mystery that will keep you entertained.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jerricka Brownhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJerricka Brown2022-02-12 07:51:022022-02-12 07:51:02The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Jerricka Brown
I am an avid reader and I absolutely love fantasy books, but this is easily one of the best ones I have read. The Mesmerist takes place in a fantasy world that is beautifully created in the first few chapters of the book while introducing a diverse cast of characters. Jana, the main character, is loveable and complex in a way that I could connect with. I connected with her sense of adventure and wanting to explore the bigger world around her rather than just her family farm. I found myself trying to solve the mystery that surrounded her, but I also enjoyed the other aspects of the story. One of the things that I enjoy most about fantasy books is the ability to escape, and The Mesmerist definitely allowed me an escape from daily life. Once I started it, I had a difficult time putting it down!
This was my first book by this author, but it definitely won’t be my last! I plan on reading her previous books and I am hoping for a sequel to this one! I absolutely recommend this book for both young adults and older. It is a beautiful story in a world that I hope we see again!
Such a great mystery! Adrijana want nothing more than adventure in her life. When she goes to the palace with her father, she gets more than she thought. She discovers the truth about herself and is thought to have killed the queen. She and Dragan one of the mesmerist helps her to uncovers the truth of the murders happening around them. I love this book. Such great characters.
The Mesmerist by Claire Luana was a book that I could not wait to read. I never hesitate to pick up a book by Claire Luana because I know that there is an adventure waiting for me. I was not disappointed at all. This book is full of adventure. Around every curve, there is something else to surprise me. The characters are complex and fully developed. This story is about the Royal family and the trouble they are in. Adrijana is the village girl who gains access to the court when the queen was pushed to her death. She has a lot on her plate and she is trying to mount an investigation and she needs to do it quickly. I highly recommend this book to see what happens to Adrijana and her investigation.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Fishhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Fish2022-02-10 07:06:302022-02-10 07:06:30The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Erica Fish
After an invite from a childhood friend takes Adrijana to court, her life is flipped upside down after a seemingly simple question. Being new to the court, Adrijana becomes the obvious suspect in a series of deaths. How can she prove her innocence? Aligning with a royal Mesmer, she sets out to unravel the mysterious deaths and ultimate plot to destabilize the only home she’s ever known. What will it take to unravel the truth and protect those dearest to her?
This young adult fantasy mystery will draw you in immediately. Having never read anything by this author, something was intriguing about the short synopsis that first drew me to this book. As with any new-to-me author, I was skeptical but I’m so relieved to find that this book was one of the best YA fantasy books I’ve ever read.
The flow of storytelling is so incredibly polished that the reader becomes immersed in the world of Adrjssia from the first page. Claire Luana does an eloquent job of setting the tone and atmosphere of this new world without drowning the reader in minute details. This story could have easily been drawn out into multiple books but it works perfectly as a stand-alone tale. I am a reader who typically tries to figure out the mystery before the narrator does. However, this was not the case in this book. The reading was easy enough to follow along while gripping to keep me drawn to the moment instead of jumping ahead. There’s an expertly practiced balance between the mystery, depth of the characters, and seductiveness of journeying with Adrijana.
Overall, this book deserves nothing less than five stars.
So many plot twists and what the heck moments! I absolutely loooved The Mesmerist. Jana tries to see the good in everyone even if they’ve shown otherwise in some ways and I really related to that. I couldn’t put this book down because I just had to find out what was going on! Magic book with plot twists are one of my favorites and I was amazed by this book. Overall amazing world building, characters and just great story that kept me wanting more!
A fantasy mystery with a new take on magical abilities that I had not read before. The story takes place in a royal court where Adrijana has come to visit her best friend, Simeon, and also try to work for or befriend the princess so she can stay. The story unfolds as the Mesmers discover her true identity which her father had been hiding using a plant they grow and deliver to the royal court. Mesmers had been mostly killed off in the kingdom and are often thought of as having terrible magic and powers. Members of the royal family are dying and Adrijana is trying to help solve the mystery and the murders, while also learning the new powers that come with being a Mesmer. There are wonderful characters that are easy to follow as the story is told and there are mysteries and plot twists that keep you guessing as you flip the pages.
The “who done it?” books always get my suspicions going and everyone is guilty until innocent in my mind. I had that feeling throughout most of this book and loved it! Andrijana is a 17 year old girl from a farm village and is very excited to experience her first time at court. When the queen mysteriously falls to her death, Adrijana’s life is turned upside down as eyes look to the new girl for a person to blame. Dragan, a royal mesmer – is her only ally as she tries to maneuver through the mystery of who had the motive and the most to gain by the murder of the queen and other royals. Mesmers are gifted people that have the ability to analyze and affect another person’s emotions. Meanwhile, the neighboring enemy kingdom the Vruks have an army closing in and it looks like war is inevitable. Andrijana is going to have to filter through the lies, half truths, and her own emotions if she’s to find the one who framed her and hopefully save the kingdom too. Andrijana is a relatable and loveable character. The feeling of mystery that this story gave me was exciting and I enjoyed every bit of it. By the end of it I was definitely wondering how much a girl had to go through and begging the author the give her a break! A wonderful read.
What a great YA Fantasy! The world building and character development was sensational, making me feel like I was right there in the book. With lots of mystery and magic, the plot keeps you turning the pages wondering what is going to happen next. I don’t want to spoil anything, but this is definitely a must read!
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