Apostles of Mercy is the third installment in Lindsay Ellis' Noumena series, an alternative history, first-contact sci-fi saga.
After struggling through the first two books in the Noumena series, I’m honestly surprised I even picked up the third one. I guess my need to finish what I started won out. I went into Axiom's End with high expectations, but I was let down. With Truth of the Divine, my expectations were lower, but still, it didn’t hit the mark for me. By the time I started Apostles of Mercy, my expectations were practically underground. Maybe that’s why it finally worked for me—because, for once, I wasn’t disappointed.
Don’t get me wrong, there are still plenty of issues. Some of the relationships feel forced, and a few moments are a bit jarring. But overall, the improvement in both writing and pacing is impressive. This book almost makes the struggle of the first two worth it. That said, I still don’t like Cora. She’s less annoying and whiny here, and her character has grown since book one, but she’s still not my favorite.
One thing this series made me realize: I really hate when authors use pop culture references to describe things—it dates the book immediately. I get it, you don’t like Bill Maher! Also, I’m beyond relieved not to hear 'animal brain/human brain' again. The repetition of those phrases in the first two books almost drove me insane. There was a new variation of it - but it was only used once or twice so I'm gonna give it a pass.
After finishing Truth of the Divine, I felt a sense of relief to be done. But Apostles of Mercy did the opposite—it left me hopeful. If the original plan for five books comes through and the improvements continue, I could see the Noumena series becoming a sci-fi classic one day.
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5
Book & Author Information:
Apostles of Mercy: Goodreads
Lindsay Ellis: Goodreads, Official, Instagram
I wanted to give a quick update on my health-related hiatus. I'm feeling a bit better, and as of now, I plan to return to regular posting by the end of September or early October. However, I won’t be accepting new ARC/review requests until November. I’ve made commitments to several authors, and I want to prioritize those reviews before taking on anything new.
Once I’m caught up, I plan to change how I accept requests, especially when it comes to the volume. I wish I could review every book I’m contacted about, but realistically, I’m no longer able to manage that. This was a difficult decision to make.
To be honest, the stress of regular health appointments and the daily demands of life have taken a toll on my energy and time. It’s been really hard for me not to post as regularly as I would like, and it’s something that has upset me deeply. Reviewing books brings me so much joy, and not being able to do it consistently has been frustrating.
Once again, I want to reassure the authors I’ve promised reviews to that I will absolutely fulfill those commitments. I haven't forgotten any of you and I assure you I am working on those reviews.
Finally, I want to mention how incredibly grateful I am for the kindness and understanding shown by those who reached out after my last update. I did not expect anyone to care. You are the reason I continue to review books and the reason I still love doing so.
I've always been pretty open about my health and disability, so I wanted to give a quick update. With some upcoming health appointments and a current flare-up, I need to temporarily pause accepting ARCs and review requests.
If we've been in touch and I've confirmed you're in my queue, don't worry—you're still there. I'll do my best to get those reviews out promptly, but please bear with me as it might take a little longer than I'd hoped. If you've read my review policy, this shouldn't come as a surprise.
I'm hopeful things will return to normal soon, and I'll be able to reopen requests then. Thanks for your understanding!
I recently had the opportunity to read the first three books in Tom Smith's "Boss Bandit" series, which follows the adventures of an adorable Shih Tzu puppy. While the illustrations are fantastic and the stories are generally good, there are a few issues parents should be aware of. Please note that this review contains major spoilers.
Starting with some minor complaints:
Each book ends abruptly, and the narrative format quickly becomes repetitive. If your child tends to get attached to certain books, I would not recommend this series. Re-reads are likely to feel tedious.
The biggest issue with the "Boss Bandit" series is the darkness and scary imagery. Each book reveals at the end that Boss Bandit is dreaming, but this revelation is done so quickly and abruptly that it can be jarring. The imagery, especially in book two, could be too intense and triggering for some children.
I don't have children, so to ensure I wasn't being overly sensitive or overthinking things, I sought the opinion of a parent. They agreed and stated that they personally would not recommend the series for children under the age of eight. Ultimately, it will depend on your child's sensitivity and what they can handle. My recommendation is to use caution and make sure to review the books yourself before reading them to your kids or giving them to read on their own.
Rating (and some notes):
Boss Bandit and the Mysterious Hole: ★★★★☆ 4/5 Easily the best in the series thus far.
Boss Bandit and the Hungry Woods: ★★☆☆☆ 2/5 I had the most concern with this one.
Boss Bandit and the Christmas Tree Intruder ★★★☆☆ 3/5 Cute, slightly spooky Christmas tale.
*I was provided free copies of this series. This review was done voluntarily.*
Book and Author Information:
Boss Bandit and the Mysterious Hole: Goodreads, Amazon
Boss Bandit and the Hungry Woods: Goodreads, Amazon
Boss Bandit and the Christmas Tree Intruder: Goodreads, Amazon
Anastasiya Benzel (illustrator): Goodreads
R. G. Fraser-Green's "Fotinoula and the Christmas Goblin" is a delightful middle-grade fantasy that beautifully blends Greek myths with the Christmas spirit. The story follows Fotinoula, a brave older sister, who must protect her little sister, Mirtoula, from the mischievous goblin Kallikantzaross during the 12 Days of Christmas. Behind the magic of the season, there is an ominous and mysterious feeling.
One of the best parts of the story is the realistic relationship between Fotinoula and Mirtoula. Their bond feels genuine and relatable, adding emotional depth to their magical adventure. The banter between them reminded me of my own childhood with my sister. The book also has a charming fairytale vibe, making it a joy to read for both kids and adults.
Through this enchanting tale, readers get a taste of Greek culture and myths that is successfully placed without taking away from the main story. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, "Fotinoula and the Christmas Goblin" offers a heartwarming narrative filled with adventure and the timeless theme of family love.
Overall, "Fotinoula and the Christmas Goblin" is a heartwarming and thrilling read that I highly recommend, especially for those looking to explore new cultural stories and enjoy a good holiday-themed adventure.
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5
Book Information:
Published: October 2nd, 2020
Fotinoula and the Christmas Goblin: Goodreads, Amazon
R. G. Fraser-Green: Goodreads, Amazon
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour 44 minutes
Genre(s): Animation, Comedy, Drama
Released: May 7, 2024
Directed by: John Krasinski
Written by: John Krasinski
Starring: Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski
The 2024 film "IF" is a family feature that offers very little in terms of originality and detail. Although it has some heartfelt moments, the overall storytelling feels a bit lazy, particularly with the reveal of who Cal really is, which is predictably obvious.
I am definitely part of the crowd that thinks this movie bears too many similarities to "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends," which is far superior. A big purple monster (Eduardo) named Blue (Blu), a home for imaginary friends suited to their needs, and Bea’s wardrobe that looks like it was borrowed from Frankie or Madam Foster’s closet all contribute to this impression.
Thankfully, "IF" does have a few redeeming features. The animation is very nice and fluid, and they did a fantastic job of making the characters fit into the "real" world. I also enjoyed the voice acting, especially Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Blossom) and Louis Gossett Jr. (Lewis).
Rating: ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ 6/10 (3/10 on Letterboxd)
In The Secret of Safe Passage, Martin Baynton breathes new life into the beloved Wonderland universe with a fresh new twist. This tale follows Ali, a spirited teenager and descendant of the original Alice. Her journey is a fantastic blend of fantasy, mystery, and a touch of attitude, making for an enthralling read that has left me desperate for the next book.
*Please note that there are minor spoilers mentioned in this review*
The story begins with Ali’s tumultuous first day at a new school, where her temper leads to an altercation with a very suspicious individual and subsequent suspension. Unable to get in touch with her father, the school assigns Ali to the care of Lord and Lady Grey, who has been secretly funding her education. This unexpected turn of events sets the stage for a series of discoveries that intertwine her fate with that of the famous Wonderland.
While exploring the Grey's property, Ali discovers a forbidden barn with old furniture and copies of Alice In Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. Initially dismissing it as a dream, she later discovers a cryptic note from the original Alice, leading her on a mission to discover the secret of safe passage between the two worlds. She faces numerous challenges, makes new friends, and uncovers shocking revelations that test her resilience and wit.
Baynton masterfully blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and adventure, creating a story that builds on the foundation of Alice in Wonderland and brings it to a modern era. His ability to write a fresh and exciting narrative while still honoring the original works of Lewis Carroll is outstanding. Many have tried to rework and or add to the original and have failed to fully recreate the mood and whimsy of Wonderland. I am very happy to say that as a long-term Alice aficionado, Baynton is one of the very few successes. The Secret of Safe Passage is a must-read for all fans of Wonderland and Portal Fantasy.
Rating: ★★★★★ 5/5
Book Information:
The Secret of Safe Passage (Taking Wonderland #1): Goodreads, Amazon
I received a digital copy of this book for free. This review is done voluntarily.
Lost in Dara (The Kaleidoscope Chronicles #1) by Robert Barrett is a young adult fantasy novel set to be published on July 7th. The book follows a trio of siblings who find themselves lost in a world of adventure, danger, and mystery, unsure of how to return home.
The story centers on 13-year-old Jack and his sisters, Holly and Emma, who accidentally stumble into the Seven—a collection of seven distinct lands, with Dara being one of them. As they navigate this unfamiliar terrain, they encounter various challenges, from battling dangerous creatures to finding their way through a pitch-black maze. Their ultimate goal is to find their way back home, but the journey is fraught with peril and discoveries about whom they can and cannot trust.
From the very first chapter, Lost in Dara captivates with its vivid descriptions and dynamic characters. Barrett wastes no time allowing readers to truly get to know the trio and their distinct personalities.
As the first book in a series slated to have seven installments (presumably one for each land), Lost in Dara had a big challenge ahead of it. First books in a series need to engage the reader, introduce them to a new world and characters, and avoid feeling rushed or overly dense. Knowing how to properly incorporate the history of this world amidst the ongoing action is an art form, and Robert Barrett excels at this. He creates a setting that is both mysterious and intriguing without neglecting character development. Barrett also does a fantastic job of hinting at the other lands, building anticipation for future books in The Kaleidoscope Chronicles.
Overall, Lost in Dara is a fantastic introduction to a new world and a promising series. With its well-paced narrative, realistic character interactions, and intriguing world-building, it is sure to captivate fans of YA fantasy adventure. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging and imaginative read.
Rating: ★★★★☆ 4/5
Book & Author Information:
I received a digital copy of this book for free. This review is done voluntarily.
Memoirs are not normally my thing, but something about Voices Carry called to me. Reading about everything Raven has achieved, survived, and struggled with made me feel like I was looking at a version of myself in another timeline. My dream was to be a teacher, and the fact that I never had the opportunity or the right timing to make that happen has always been a significant source of sadness in my life. I also deal with chronic pain and mental health issues.
As I read about the frustrations and difficulties Raven faced while teaching, it had a healing effect on me. I do not doubt that if things had been different and I had become a teacher, my path would have been very similar. However, I don’t think I would have lasted as long in the profession. I have never experienced a book, especially non-fiction, that felt more like it was put into the universe for me to discover. So many of the things I currently struggle with or have in the past have their own chapters in Voices Carry. From issues surrounding body image to accepting yourself (and even just figuring out who that is), it's all here.
Raven’s unsent letters to people made me feel so seen. I find myself doing this all the time as I hate confrontation with others. I have done this since I was a child but have always thought it was probably just another “weird” thing I do. One quote that particularly resonated with me was after Raven described an event with her father. Her words, "Once you go into hiding, you tend to stay there. It’s easier. It’s safer," hit me like a freight train.
Raven’s journey is a powerful exploration of resilience and self-acceptance. Her story is not just about her struggles but also about the universal quest for self-identity and voice. I highly recommend Voices Carry to anyone dealing with chronic pain, mental health struggles, or anyone who feels their dreams have been deferred. Raven’s story offers solace and inspiration.
I know this review is a bit messy. This book left me with so many emotions, and I don’t know how to put it all into words. The most basic way I can express it is that I think I really needed this book. Raven Oak mentioned that she wanted to write this book as a way to gain back her voice. In doing so, she is going to help many others find their way to do the same. After reading Voices Carry, I felt more at peace with my own journey's progress.
Rating: ★★★★★ 5/5
Book & Author Information:
With everything going on in the world (Palestine, Congo, Sudan, government corruption, etc.), I’ve been increasingly concerned about who I’m supporting. As they say, “You don’t know what you don’t know.” Educating yourself about ongoing events while managing the difficulties in your own life is challenging. However, this is no excuse for giving up and not caring. Humanity as a whole needs to come together for positive, lasting change. The barriers we put up (and those our governments erect) need to be destroyed. Just because you don’t feel the impact now doesn’t mean you won’t. It doesn’t mean you won’t be the next target.
I’ve been trying my best to find ways to do better. Online, I’ve been sharing links to GoFundMes, videos of current events, and generally trying to spread awareness and show support. However, offline, I don’t think I’ve been doing enough. Disability has prevented me from attending events, I have no money to spare, and I currently lack the knowledge of what else I could be doing. After thinking about it for a while, I’ve concluded that it’s time to confront how I show up in the world and how the people and products I support impact that.
I love reading and reviewing books. But what message am I unknowingly sending if the author I’m supporting turns out to be a problematic person? Many of us have had to confront this question lately, most notably with J.K. Rowling and her beliefs about the Trans community. What do we do with art that has touched our souls if it came from awful people?
Wondermajica hosts reviews of many types of media, but books have been a primary focus for the last few years. Thus, I have begun a major book unhaul. I want to know that the authors represented on my shelves are people I have no problem supporting. This means I need to find information about hundreds of authors and confront things about myself and them that I may not like. I have just started, but I already know this is going to be a sad and disappointing process. I am unsure what action would be best to take. Do I adopt a zero-tolerance approach? Do I sell or donate the offenders' books? What about the really special ones? Do I keep them but put them on a separate, closed-off shelf?
Going forward, I know I will be researching authors before buying new books, but what do I do with what I have now? Should I share who I am removing and why?
*Consider this your spoiler warning.*
There is a pervasive issue in media concerning diversity, particularly in regard to the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Sadly, Bad River falls into a tired trope where an LGBTQIA2S+ character is introduced, only to be killed off quickly, serving no purpose beyond furthering the plot. This is a harmful pattern where marginalized characters, like people of color, are often disposable in narratives. This not only undermines the story but also reinforces damaging stereotypes in the real world.
My frustration further extends to the portrayal of witches as inherently "bad" in the horror genre. Considering how creative authors can be in this genre, I wish that some would no longer rely on stale stereotypes without offering something fresh. Unfortunately, Bad River fails to break away from this tired narrative.
I received an E-ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rating: 3.5/5 ★★★☆☆
Book & Author Information:
Bad River: Goodreads
Published: July 31st, 2024
Ken Brosky: Goodreads, Amazon Author Profile, Instagram
At its core, Fire Horse by Pat Olney is about two parents grappling with the grief of losing their only son. It is a deeply emotional novel that dives into the complexities of loss in a poignant and realistic way.
While my experience with the book was mixed, there is no denying the strength of Olney’s writing and the vividness of the story’s depiction.
Olney does an excellent job of illustrating how differently people can process and manage grief. There is no correct way of dealing with loss. Some become consumed by their grief; others may run from it. The multiple depictions of this in Fire Horse add depth and provide a nuanced look at an often oversimplified topic.
Moreover, as I read, I pictured the scenes as if they were playing out in a movie. The book’s cinematic quality is one of its strengths. I believe Fire Horse could translate beautifully to film, where the visual and emotional elements might resonate even more powerfully.
However, my reading experience wasn't without its challenges. I often found myself feeling bored while reading Fire Horse, as the book failed to fully engage me. I wasn't a fan of the narrative structure. The back and forth through time, combined with the shifts between different characters, made it difficult for me to stay invested in the story.
With that being said, it's important to acknowledge that Fire Horse is very well-written. Pat Olney's descriptive prowess is evident throughout the book. Unfortunately, this prowess often went a little too far. There were moments when the level of detail seemed excessive and detracted from the story instead of enhancing it.
In conclusion, while Fire Horse failed to capture my full interest, it is a well-crafted novel that would resonate perfectly with readers who appreciate intricate descriptions and non-linear storytelling.
I received an E-ARC of Fire Horse from Hidden Gems. All thoughts and opinions featured in this review are my own.
Rating:★★★★☆ 4/5
Book & Author Information:
Published: June 1, 2024
Ramblings serves as a series I turn to during moments of low energy or writer's block. Here is what is jumbling around in my brain right now, along with a few updates.
- I recently experienced a different type of reading slump. I was thoroughly enjoying 'Empire of the Vampire' by Jay Kristoff, relishing every page. However, in my eagerness to prolong the experience, I found myself unable to read at all. Each time I picked up the book, I knew the end was growing closer. It seems ironic, especially considering I had the sequel waiting for me.
- Amazon Prime finally released its television adaptation of Fallout. I binged all the episodes as soon as they were released. I have never enjoyed or been more excited watching a TV show. Over the last few years, I have grown accustomed to being greatly disappointed in film. Fallout was everything I wanted and more. My only complaint was that I NEED MORE!
- I never got around to sharing some recent updates and changes here. If you're following me on Instagram, you probably already noticed. Wondermajica has been around since 2016, and it's now 2024. Believe it or not, it took me all this time to settle on a logo. Ridiculous? Absolutely. But hey, better late than never, right? Oh, and here's another milestone: I've finally mustered the courage to use a real picture of myself as my author photo. For someone who's not fond of seeing their own face (trust me, this was hard for me), this was a major feat. But hey, progress is progress, no matter how small.
- I'm in the process of rebuilding and reorganizing my Pinterest account. If you were following me there, I kindly ask you to hit that follow button again. My aim is to create an account that better reflects who I am now and is more organized.
- Additionally, I've made the decision to switch up my content once again. For the past couple of years, I've mainly focused on book reviews, inadvertently leading many to perceive this blog solely as a book-centric platform. However, I've never strictly labeled it as such. While a significant portion of my content does revolve around reviews, they're not limited to just books. I tend to immerse myself deeply in my interests, and lately, books have taken the spotlight. However, I'll soon be returning to the diverse content approach Wondermajica was originally known for. (Don't worry though, there'll still be plenty of book reviews!)
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