Genre: YA Fantasy FictionPublication Date: December 2009
Author Website: www.jaclyndolamore.com
One Word Review: Mysterious
First Line: “The audience didn’t understand a word we sang.”
Synopsis: Nimira is a music-hall performer forced to dance for pennies to an audience of leering drunks. When wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to do a special act - singing accompaniment to an exquisite piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it is the start of a new life. In Parry's world, however, buried secrets stir. Unsettling below-stairs rumors abound about ghosts, a mad woman roaming the halls, and of Parry's involvement in a gang of ruthless sorcerers who torture fairies for sport. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing young fairy gentleman is trapped inside the automaton's stiff limbs, waiting for someone to break the curse and set him free, the two fall in love. But it is a love set against a dreadful race against time to save the entire fairy realm, which is in mortal peril.-GoodReads
Kathy’s Review: I was sucked into the story right off the bat. You’re immediately taken into the life of Nimira and the world of Lorinar. I liked learning about Nim’s past and what brought her to Lorinar. I loved the first few chapters where she meets Mr. Hollin Parry and the mystery behind him. I enjoyed the love story of Nim and the automaton (kind of reminded me of Beauty and the Beast). The story really moved along and had a few twists and turns that kept me interested. The ending was a little disappointing, but I think it may be meant as a set up for a sequel (although, I think I would have preferred if this book was a little longer and a standalone). Overall, I really enjoyed the story. I thought things were a bit rushed in places, and when Nim was faced with a new challenge, it sometimes seemed the solution was given a little too quickly. Also, Mr. Parry started off really mysterious and dark, which added a great element to the story. As time went on, he lost a lot of that and kind of fell flat for me towards the end.
A fun read for anyone who enjoys a good fantasy with a few hints of Jane Eyre.
I think I might give this a try. It sounds like a real page-turner.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Becky, I will be adding to my buy list. Thanks for the heads up.
ReplyDeleteHave a great week :)