Sylvia Izzo Hunter

This was really good. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the plot. Sophie was fierce. I liked her determination to learn and how supportive Gray was of that. Particularly his acceptance, encouragement and approval of her being stronger in her magic than him. I enjoyed the slow burn of their relationship and the fact that they seemed to really get to know each other. I liked that they had lots of discussions about magical theory and childhoods and dreams and aspirations. Gray was such a kind character - more concerned with the wellbeing of his loved ones than himself. I loved his relationship with Sophie but also his existing relationship with Jenny and his developing bond with Joanna. It was really sweet. Joanna was hilarious. She was so outspoken and brash and had the best lines. I enjoyed the plot. The whole adventure/quest of uncovering a royal conspiracy was cool. This isn't as fast paced as most of the more recent fantasy novels, but I enjoyed the return to the classic slow and steady build up of the quest and the unfolding of the adventure. I really liked the chapter names - they had me chuckling to myself. There was no cliffhanger and although part of a series, could easily be read as a standalone. The plot is nicely wrapped up and the characters are left happily ever after.

Overall this was a well written historical fantasy with strong and likable characters and an enchanting plot. Solid 4 stars.
… (plus d'informations)

Imagine a spin on a Cinderella type fairy tale, mashed up with the Magic of Merlin, the mythology of Greece, Norse and the Romans with a gratuitous nod to Christianity and Judaism, set in an alternate UK/France and you'd have a good idea of The Midnight Queen.

I'm pretty sure this is meant to be a YA targeted story, but the writing works well enough to be argued either way. It's pure fantasy, and it was entertaining. When I was reading it, it was easy to lose myself in the story. I didn't rate it higher because when I wasn't reading it, I didn't feel compelled to go back to it, which means, for me, that the characters failed to make me feel invested in their outcomes.

Still, it was an enjoyable read and I'd recommend it to anyone with an affinity to fairy tales.… (plus d'informations)