Fetching Dreams is a book about 12-year-olds becoming pen-pals and learn about other cultures and lives. Worlds apart as one Neyah lives in a village in Kenya Africa and worries of harsh living conditions and one Abby in a modern city in Minnesota. It is a heartfelt story aimed at middle school aged children where they get insightful lessons of tragedy and fear of change. It is an engaging tale about bonding and finding one’s voice and speaking out to make a difference. It is about making connections no matter where one lives in the world. We learn about plants and wildlife and the differences of people around the globe. We also learn that “Water is life,” for those that have to work for it and others take for granted. Fetching Dreams is worth the read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-06-18 01:37:002023-06-19 14:52:14Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Jenni Bishop
Fetching Dreams is a beautifully written and inspirational YA family book. Neyah and Abby live in two very different worlds but form a friendship as pen pals through a school project. Neyah lives in Africa and does not have water in her village. She misses a lot of school because of having to walk several miles to bring water to her family for bathing, cooking, and for the livestock. Neyah’s village struggles with diseases caused by the lack of running water and her daily life is full of dangers as she faces bandits on her way to get water. Abby lives worlds apart in Minnesota and has a good life in comparison to Neyah. She has clean, running water and modern conveniences but her life is far from perfect. Her parents have issues, and she has been diagnosed with having a brain tumor. The two girls work together to raise awareness and money for water in Neyah’s village. The characters of Abby and Neyah are well written and the strength and courage the two girls had was inspiring. Both girls were smart, independent, and faced challenges head-on. The unlikely friendship between Neyah and Abby will inspire and uplift you as they encouraged each other to follow their dreams. This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions as the girls faced their own challenges and helped each other even though they were worlds apart. I highly recommend this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-06-17 19:59:412023-06-19 14:34:30Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Two girls a continent apart. Neyah is super quiet and shy and lives in Africa. Abby is a bubbly socialite in Minnesota, USA. They learn of each other through their social studies teachers and become pen pals.
Neyah rarely gets to go to school. Her family depends on her to fetch water for them to survive. Neyah loves school and learning and aspires to be a doctor.
Abby is ok with school but jealous of the “time off” that Neyah has, not really realizing at first why Neyah isn’t able to attend as much.
Through a series of back and forth letters, the girls learn of each others cultures, customs, and norms and both are determined to help make the world a much better place.
I would advise you to read this in a solitary room if you’re apt to cry. I was reading this while sitting out at a yard sale in between customers. BAD IDEA because I could not stop the tears. There are happy crying moments, there are sad crying moments. This book is such a beautiful story of two unlikely people to form a bond and then do something with that bond. This story will stick with me awhile!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-06-17 14:59:072023-06-17 19:53:05Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Julie Johnson
Neyah and Abby are pen pals. Both learning about each other’s lives. While the girls are the same age, they live very different lifestyles. Neyah lives in Africa while Abby lives in a city on the other side of the globe. Abby works on her social life, while Neyah gathers contaminated water for her family. Neyah longs for the days when she can go to school, while Abby goes to school everyday. Such an inspiring story for all to read. I found both main characters to be strong independent young girls. Who strive for a better life for each other. This author has captured my heart in this story. I feel every 12 year and older child should get the opportunity to read this story. To have a pen pal from a different country and to learn how fortunate they are to live without fear. As this story unfolds many lives are touched by the strength of these two girls. Fantastic story to read! It’s fast paced and you find yourself wanting so much more. I feel this to be an excellent read for young teens, teachers, librarians and parents. Let’s open our children’s minds and bring back helping others.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Mayberryhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Mayberry2023-06-17 12:37:382023-06-17 19:54:32Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Cindy Mayberry
This book stands out among the others. It describes the life of an American Indian during the time when the English settlers came to America. The author does an impeccable job in describing what Talks like Thunder’s emotions and her life prior to the settlers taking over their village. The plot is very easy to follow and understand. The characters are very well thought out and do complement each other.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristin Boutellehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristin Boutelle2023-06-17 09:41:032023-06-19 14:33:53Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Kristin Boutelle
Neyah is a young girl living in Africa, which means that she misses school a lot due to having to walk many miles a day to fetch water for her family to use for food, bathing, washing, crops and livestock. When her school starts a pen pal project with a group of middle school students in Minnesota, Neyah gets to know an American teenager named Abby. Abby is surprised by how different things are, such as a lack of running water, or that Neyah is the one that has to miss school and not her four brothers. Throughout the book, we see many problems that Neyah faces in her daily life, such as diseases caused by lack of clean water, her dad’s lack of willingness to change how things have always been done, the dangers of her climb to and from the different water sources in her area of Africa, bandits, and the possibility that her father will sell her as a second wife for cattle. Neyah at first thinks that Abby’s life is “perfect”, but quickly we learn that Abby has issues of her own. Her parents are struggling after issues of their own, and then Abby ends up with a brain tumor. The girls start working together to get access to water in Neyah’s village, by raising money and awareness of the situation that Neyah lives every day. This is a great book for reminding people that everyone has their issues, we are not that much different than other people our age in other places around the world. This is a great book for adults and teenagers, alike.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candice Esteshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandice Estes2023-06-17 08:06:012023-06-19 14:32:27Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Candice Estes
This was a book that grips your heartstrings with the story of two girls living two different lives with two separate challenges but they are both so strong and brave. Neyah has a very tough life and yet she perseveres and continues to write of her adventures to Abby. We get an idea of what is going on. There are moments of joy and moments of heart break. For Abby, life is different. She may have more but she is facing her own battle. We learn about her adventures in her letters to Neyah. I felt like I was on the emotional roller coaster with this book. It was a good thing because this story reminds you that you are alive and blessed. The author does a very good job of making this story feel realistic. The writing and the characters just keep you wanting to find out what’s coming next. This story is a definite tearjerker so I’d keep tissues handy. It’s one of the best YA stories I’ve read this year.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-06-17 06:51:222023-06-19 14:39:45Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Shelly Kittell
Two girls living a continent part become pen pals. Quiet and shy Neyah lives in a rural African village and longs for more time in school, but spends most days fetching water for her family to survive. Bold and boisterous Abby lives comfortably in a modern city and spends much of her time planning her social calendar. Despite their differences, an unlikely friendship forms and they discover they have one thing very much in common. Their lives are tragically threatened by something they can’t control. Or maybe they can.
Mary Bleckwehl believes words matter. As a children’s writer she uses them to challenge readers to not just imagine a better world but to take action to make it so. Passionate about promoting literacy, Bleckwehl has presented to nearly 100,000 school children as an author.
Bleckwehl grew up in an Iowa farm home with few books but a trove of experiences that are the foundation of her writing.As a writer, she draws on youth experiences as well as her imagination and years of parenting and teaching. She craves variety and, thus, writes non-fiction and fiction for many age groups. Her newest book for middle-grade through adult readers is Fetching Dreams-reviewed by Kirkus as “an engaging tale about finding one’s voice and making faraway connections.” Bleckwehl’s latest picture book, Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! joins her award-winning picture books, Henry you’re late AGAIN! Henry you’re hungry AGAIN?and Claire’s Hair. Other published work: The Birthday Cookbook (2021) a fun and easy recipe book for kids; her debut middle grade novel, The Worry Knot (January 2022); and four nonfiction books in the Awesome Disgusting Careers series (September 2022). She has three more books due out in 2024.
Bleckwehl graduated from Wartburg College and received her M.S. in Educational Management from Lesley University in Boston. She lives in Northfield, Minnesota where she taught school. Together with her husband, she raised three children, a few unruly pets, and plenty of garden weeds. When she’s not dreaming up a new book idea, Bleckwehl can be found presenting to book lovers in schools, libraries and conferences or enjoying a peaceful pontoon ride with family.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Fetching-Dreams.jpeg1200750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-06-17 00:05:212023-06-26 22:30:03Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl
Inspirational. This is the first book I have read by this author and while I don’t usually read historical fiction books everything about this book drew me in to give it a read. Primarily told from Desert Flower/ Talks Like Thunder’s perspective we get a few glimpses from her Grandfather Gray Fox. 1871, Desert Flower is only seven years old, her father has long passed and now so has her mother. While he tribe, the White Mountain Apache’s care for her, lack of food and illnesses from the white-eyes (blue coats) has wiped out several leaving her the only child that survived the stomach rot. Enter her grandfather Gray Fox and several of his Chiricahua warriors. Having heard of her mother’s passing he has come to reclaim his granddaughter and take her to his tribe, the Three Hills Chiricahua Apache’s. Very quickly her spirit is strong while she doesn’t want to leave her friends and the family of her tribe, she overhears the fear of starvation if she stays. Riding a horse for the first time she is scared, leaving her people, surrounded by strangers, and going to a place she has never seen or heard of. As part of her assimilation into her grandfather’s tribe she is given a new name, Talks Like Thunder. Finally, she understands and feels her grandfather’s affection for her and in time he calls her daughter as a term of endearment. Mastering many weapons, she is invited to the Warrior’s Society, and she is determined to prove she belongs or at least not go down without a fight. Once she officially becomes a woman, she truly feels that this is her dream tribe, and she belongs. Can Thunder fulfill her goal of becoming a warrior? Will she get the husband of her dreams Golden Eagle (Sparrow)? With the invaders all around will her tribe be able to survive the battles to come. Learning about our history is only one side of it. This book, while fictionalized, is built upon historical events, and the sadness fills my soul for the loss of so many. The details, world building for the period and growth of the characters leaves you wanting more. Thunder is the female protagonist we all need. She is strong and fierce, and she is a woman that wants a husband and family. Her determination to protect her people and those she loves gives her strength every step of the way. I can’t wait to read more of this series, Falling Star, novella two and see more of this side of history that’s often forgotten.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ayla Phippshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAyla Phipps2023-06-16 18:25:492023-06-19 14:26:35Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Ayla Phipps
Reading about the horrible treatment of the Native Americans is a painful reminder of the history of our country. Experiencing it through Talks Like Thunder’s eyes is heartbreaking. The Strength she finds within herself is a testament to the resilience of her people even today. I look forward to reading the next book and hearing where the story goes from here.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Daree Blakehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDaree Blake2023-06-15 22:18:312023-06-19 11:24:52Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Daree Blake
What a phenomenal book! I picked this book because I enjoy reading about Native Americans. I learned so much about Apache culture. Sadly, I was also reminded of things that were quite unpleasant, such as how natives were treated by the government, the army, and even everyday people. The story flowed with authentic pace. Best of all, this book is the first of a series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2023-06-14 19:24:472023-06-19 11:18:08Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Alison Risher
The story of Ruarnon and his friends continues in part 2 and I loved it as much as the first! The Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson continues to paint elaborate lands, vivid imagery, and rich character portrayals. I love how in this book the chapters/sections are divided between Ruarnon and their companion’s perspectives on what’s going on, not just getting one side. You can see the growth and the internal struggles that is facing everyone. This one did take me longer to get through just because there was SO much more going on. Even though it’s a part two in the trilogy, and there are still endings to be concluded, I also love that it didn’t end on an intense cliff hanger until part 3. Overall very well written and easy to lose yourself in the storyline! Cannot wait for the 3rd.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00katherine mellonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngkatherine mellon2023-06-14 07:57:152023-06-19 11:06:06Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson
The series cannot be read as a stand-alone. Both books start a bit scattered and it’s hard to grasp where they are or what’s happening, it felt a bit fast paced and underwhelming. The fluidity and seamless ability was a little lacking. But once making it past the first few chapters i was understanding and it was flowing.
She provides a ton of detail and wonderfully diverse characters focusing on the rescue of their parents. This store is packed full of adventure, twist, turns, and chaos! It seems there were hidden messages in the story about civilization and education.
Recommended as leisure read, to learn and grasp what the author is trying to say
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Maikalanihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMaikalani2023-06-13 10:55:492023-06-19 10:57:22Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Maikalani alexander
Elise Carlson continues her Ruarnon Trilogy with Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy #2). She does an excellent job drawing you into the storyline right away, with such well-developed characters that you will have loved from the first book. I love the details that Elise Carlson includes in her books, which helps the reader to be drawn in and engaged with the characters, their lives, and the lives of their friends they are trying to protect while seeking to free Ruarnon’s parents. This book takes many unexpected twists and turns and keeps you wanting to more of the storyline. I am so excited to read the final book in this trilogy to find out what the final outcome will be for our characters. Brandy Rymer 06/2023
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Jo Rymerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Jo Rymer2023-06-12 23:39:192023-06-19 11:04:41Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Brandy Rymer
There is nothing about Secrets of the Sorcery War that I would change! This is the second book in the Ruarnon Trilogy, and I really didn’t think the author would be able to top the first book. Somehow they seamlessly pulled it off! I always love it when authors put things in the front to help give you a cheat-sheet, so to speak. Elise puts a map in the beginning as well as a list of characters to help get you on track. That being said, I would say it’s best to read the first book before jumping into this one because this is an incredibly in-depth world with multi-dimensional characters and plenty of drama. We continue the magical adventure with plenty of action, a diverse crew, and all the secrets being revealed. I highly recommend this YA fantasy trilogy. I just can’t wait to get my hands on the last book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2023-06-12 21:31:272023-06-19 11:04:02Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Shannen Kern
Heir Ruarnon has just returned from brokering peace treaties with some of the kingdoms surrounding thier home of Tarlah, but just as they are settling in, they have a visit by an ambassador from a community which has not had much communication with them since the Sorcerer’s War. This is surprising to Ruarnon, especially when the discussion turns into an invitation to visit this estranged kingdom and it is one they readily accept.
As the party prepare to leave, Ruarnon converses with their new found friends from Australia to explain their reasons for leaving their palace and not taking the four adventurers along, however, they promise that of there is a next time, that they are more than welcome to join them and woth that says the party set off on their travels.
While they learn more about what is known of this reclusive community of the Urai, Ruarnon is keen to learn more about their traditions and the reasoning behind the estrangement, however, they are also careful not to offend their hosts at the same time. All is proceeding well during their visit, until a messenger arrives with urgent news of a sighting of the dreaded Damars off the coast of Urai and Ruarnon is all too familiar of the dangers this poses to them all, so they advise the Urai of this and agree to consult with their councils on what to do and to report back to each other on their decision.
After these debates have taken place, a course of action is decided upon and the Urai turn out to be unexpected allies, as do the Australian quartet who decide amongst themselves to travel with Ruarnon and if possible speak to their adversaries to gain knowledge of the possibility of returning home.
When they all find themselves embroiled in a battle with the fearsome Damars and sorcerors, this both terrified and excited the four strangers, especially when after the Battle is won, they have the chance to speak to them and find out more about both the sorcerer Nartzeer, his plans and the reasons he attacked them. However, what they find out just leads to more questions than answers and more worries are heaped onto Ruarnon’s shoulders, but what do these new revelations mean and how will they affect the future of Uranimaris? This is an epic fantasy adventure across land and sea, to unravel the secrets which lie across the seas and untangle the webs surrounding the history of the many lands to reveal the future, or at least the many iterations of what it could be as this story hooks you in and keeps you guessing throughout.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2023-06-12 17:57:152023-06-19 11:02:32Secrets of the Sorcery War: An Epic YA Fantasy by Elise Carlson – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
Secrets of the Sorcery War is Book Two in the Ruarnon Trilogy. This book continues where the first book left off, so I highly recommend reading Book One so that you get an idea of the backstory and who the characters are. It is a YA fantasy that focuses on Ruarnon who feels pressure to live up to their parents’ expectations to take roll of successor to the throne of Tarlah. Ruarnon is young but wise beyond their years, as is the secondary character of Linh. When their parents are kidnapped Ruarnon must take charge and plan a rescue mission. Will they be up to the greatest challenge of their life? The author does a great job of transporting the reader into the fantasy world of Ruarnon and captivating us with descriptive scenes that immerse you into the scenes with the characters. A great read full of mystery, drama, action, danger, secrets, lies, and suspense.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-06-12 15:39:362023-06-17 19:55:52Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This is a work of fiction but is inspired by real events that have taken place. Desert Flower is only 7 years old when she is abducted by her grandfather to join his tribe of the Chiricahua. She doesn’t understand their ways at all and misses her family, who perished, as well as her friends left behind in her original tribe.
As custom is, Desert Flower receives a new name once she’s been assimilated into her grandfather’s tribe. She becomes Talks Like Thunder and oh, does she!! Thunder is a force to be reckoned with whether its from her own people or the Blue Coats.
This is a very emotional read. I have studied Native American history to some extent but reading these stories, even though fictional in nature, provides some context as to the treatment of these people. I found myself cheering for Thunder throughout all her trials and look forward to reading more about her people in future books.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-06-12 15:22:522023-06-19 10:49:51Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Julie Johnson
This book is the second book in the ‘Ruarnon Trilogy’ and a continuation of the first book so I would suggest reading the first book before delving into this. Although, it is detailed enough that you COULD read it as a stand-alone but will make more sense as a sequel.
Ruarnon, the first non-binary ruler, is at it again with their friends. They are still trying to prove their worth to the haters all the while trying to find allies to help them defeat the Sorcerer King. Ruarnon is introduced to their mothers heritage in hopes to find allies that way. They learn much about the ways of the Urai. They are going to need all the help they can get. The sorcerer king has magic and is not afraid to use it.
Much like the first book in the series, it was hard to keep track of who is who. The author is a very good writer, very detailed but a little too dense for a YA fantasy. There was quite a bit of extra information that we honestly didn’t need. I do like that the main character is part of the LGBTQ community. I also like The world building and the characters in general but it was hard to engage or relate which makes a difference to me. I like to become one with the characters but found I couldn’t picture myself in the world.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Santana Hickshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSantana Hicks2023-06-12 12:42:422023-06-19 10:49:41Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Santana Hicks
This is the 2nd installment in the Ruarnon Trilogy and you definitely need to read the books in order to fully understand what’s going on with the plot line and character development. This is an epic YA fantasy saga that is all-inclusive and follows the MC, Linh, on her quest to find allies to free her parents from the evil (maybe?) Nartzeer. This novel is full of twists and turns and I can’t wait for the 3rd and final installment to come out. I loved the inclusiveness of the LGBTQIA+ community within the novel and it wasn’t done as an after thought and didn’t seemed forced. The premise of the novel is great and I really liked the character development; however, I feel that Carlson tends to be overly descriptive and verbose in some areas of her writing and it would often make me lose interest in what was happening at that moment. There were definitely parts that could have been shorter and moved the story along faster without taking away from the plot. BUT overall I would recommend this YA fantasy saga if you like this genre.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2023-06-12 09:44:312023-06-19 10:48:44Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Megan Conley
I loved Trapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley! The characters are believable and relatable. It’s a super easy read, and hard to put down! I read this in one sitting because I just couldn’t put it down. There was romance, exploration, danger and excitement but I would say still appropriate even for mature YA readers. Set in prohibition times, Bethany’s overprotective guardians (aunt and uncle) are determined to continue managing their niece (and her inheritance) by arranging a marriage with an unsavory business partner. While vacationing at the hot springs, Bethany unknowingly befriends a woman who is caught up with a gangster working closely with Al Capone. As she catches the eye of another gangster, Bethany is caught between the excitement and newness of this dangerous world and the safety of her new friend, Paul, a detective undercover watching the mobs activities.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00katherine mellonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngkatherine mellon2023-06-12 08:48:332023-06-19 10:48:34Trapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley – Review by Kat Mellon
Secrets of the Sorcery War: An Epic YA Fantasy by Elise Carlson is a great LGBTQ Fanatasy story
Reading Ruarnon is a pleasure. They are complex characters who the reader can’t help but enjoy getting to know. Ruarnon feels pressure to uphold their parents’ standards while still developing their own identity as the successor to the Tarlahn throne. Although they are young, they are intelligent beyond their years and lack any obnoxiousness. Characters in Secrets of the Sorcery War have a lot of depth.The book’s Australian characters are very beautifully written. The other protagonist of the story is Linh, who, like Ruarnon, is intelligent beyond her years without being annoying and has excellent interactions with people from both realms. The language flows smoothly and never seems out of place. Australian adolescents sound natural and realistic.
Despite being a YA novel, it doesn’t hesitate to approach its subjects through an adult lens. This allows it to explore its topics while telling an in-depth story, even though it is lengthier than typical for its target group.
Every page was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. It is a very unique story with even more one-of-a-kind characters. The story really transports you into their world. I couldn’t put the book down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shadel Ayerbehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShadel Ayerbe2023-06-12 07:57:422023-06-19 10:48:12Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Shadel Ayerbe
Manipulator’s War (Ruarnon Trilogy) by Elise Carlson is a great young adult fantasy book.
The author skillfully incorporates a modern perspective with the addition of 4 children from today’s culture while skillfully balancing the several adolescent characters and their reactions to the battles, deaths of friends and foes alike, and the portal addition. The fantasy worldbuilding is good despite the necessity for speech to frequently carry a lot of exposition to keep readers informed of the rivalries and conflicts in this convoluted world. There are many characters to follow! The treatment of the “midlun” sex, Ruarnon, a non-binary protagonist who battles uncertainties and anxiety while rising to the trials of the manipulator’s war to become the leader the people need to defeat conquistador armies and wicked chaos produced creatures, was what I found to be most enjoyable.
Every page was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. It is a very unique story with even more one-of-a-kind characters. The story really transports you into their world. I couldn’t put the book down. Ran right for book 2.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shadel Ayerbehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShadel Ayerbe2023-06-12 07:36:522023-06-19 10:48:05Manipulator’s War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 1) by Elise Carlson – Review by Shadel Ayerbe
This is the second book in the Ruarnon Triology. I really recommend reading these books in order so you can follow the story and have a better understanding of what’s going on. This story is full of action, adventure, danger, lies and betrayal which will keep any young adult engaged. The author does a great job with the world building and characters especially Ruarnon who is non- binary. In this book we see Ruarnon in charge after their parents have been kidnapped. They now need to plan and launch a rescue mission to save them from an evil king. But he is as evil as Ruarnon had been lead to believe. Who can Ruarnon trust? Can they save the people that are taken as prisoners? And what would be the consequences if they don’t succeed. This book is fast paced with loads of action. It is definately a read that someone who love fantasy would really enjoy. I can’t wait to read the final book in this great series
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2023-06-12 05:59:562023-06-19 10:47:57Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Kerry Carr
Follow Ruanon and company as more adventure and mayhem await them! This time they set sail on the seas ro rescue people from the sorcerer king who is said to be extremely evil… what they actually find when they face off is something you’ll have to discover reading. This book is a good Ya fantasy and it also includes a non binary main character that is very well done. As with the first book I struggled to stay engaged as the story was choppy and sometimes too much information or detail was given on some topics but when I needed more information on other things it was lacking, however this is better than the first book. A cute quirk is also the art work between chapters that was very cool. Overall worth a read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2023-06-11 19:00:162023-06-19 10:53:51Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Melissa Saxton
This was a great second in the series! This author definitely has a unique writing style. They are very in depth with their characters and the descriptions of the world. I recommend reading the first book so you have a better understanding of the characters and you can see all their growth. And there is so much character growth in this book. Ruarnon grows more into their role as a leader. There is a lot of action in the book as they are challenged more by the sorcery king. This book is a YA book but can definitely be enjoyed by an adult audience as well. If you are into fantasy stories this is definitely worth the read! Will be looking forward to book 3 when it comes out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carlahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarla2023-06-10 17:53:282023-06-19 10:43:18Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Carla Clemmons
This was hard for me to put down, I was in the zone constantly with this book. It as like nothing else existed. It was just as amazing as the first one maybe even a little bit better. Fantasy is my favorite type of genre, and this book didn’t disappoint. I couldn’t read this book fast enough to know what was going to happen next to Ruanon, Linh and the others. This time on a quest to find out if King Nartzeer was up to no good. The characters were once again well written into the book that it makes you feel like you have known them all your life. The setting and everything around it made you also feel like you were watching everything unfold right before your eyes. I can’t wait to see what is in story for this adventure next.
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 Reimer2023-06-10 08:50:042023-06-17 20:19:13Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Jennifer Reimer
This was hard for me to put down, I was in the zone constantly with this book. It as like nothing else existed. It was just as amazing as the first one maybe even a little bit better. Fantasy is my favorite type of genre, and this book didn’t disappoint. I couldn’t read this book fast enough to know what was going to happen next to Ruanon, Linh and the others. This time on a quest to find out if King Nartzeer was up to no good. The characters were once again well written into the book that it makes you feel like you have known them all your life. The setting and everything around it made you also feel like you were watching everything unfold right before your eyes. I can’t wait to see what is in story for this adventure next.
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 Reimer2023-06-10 08:14:262023-06-17 20:18:50Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Jennifer Reimer
The adventure continues Second book in the Ruarnon Trilogy and this takes off from where book one finished off. It is worth reading book one to get the foundation of the story. This flowed a lot better than book one but maybe it’s because the story is at its peak. There’s a lot of depth and imagery to the story with some parts I felt overdone but this didn’t detract from the overall story. With fantasy, myths, magic, action & drama there’s a lot to sink your teeth into and enjoy. Recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rayne Easthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRayne East2023-06-10 04:19:062023-06-17 20:18:10Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Rayne East
Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson. This is the second book in the Ruarnon Trilogy and I highly recommend reading them in order to better understand the characters and story. This is a young adult fantasy read and its a sit down and buckle your seats read. Ruarnon is about to be challenged like never before by the sorcery king. Having to figure out who he can trust who he can’t trust is going to be key in this battle. There are battle after battle and the action is ongoing from the get go. The main character is non binary which is new to me as well. There is danger, murder, lies and love all wrapped up in this fast paced story. This is a fast paced fun read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2023-06-09 09:30:502023-06-17 15:11:50Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Tausha Treadway
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