Wednesday 21 January 2015

Review: The Paper Magician Trilogy | The Paper Magician + The Glass Magician

Review of the Paper Magician Trilogy
by Charlie N. Holmberg:
 This post will consist of separate reviews for the first two books in this series.
 
Review of The Paper Magician
by Charlie N. Holmberg:
  
 
My Thoughts:
 
It isn't very often that we get a uniquely plotted book anymore, stories, especially young adult ones, are becoming more and more clichéd and predictable. Its frustrating. The Paper Magician however was a breath of fresh air. The magic lore was unlike any that I have read about - in the best possible way, of course.

The originality wasn't the only thing that worked for me though. It was the characters that had me going. They were so simplistic but yet oddly complex at the same time. They were both relatable and realistic - well, as far as magicians can be described as "realistic".

What let this down was the unexpected plot turn and the resulting "weird" middle part of the story. It was just ... well, peculiar. Too peculiar for my liking and rather tedious. The ending was far better however and the book ended on such a joyful tone that you could almost forget the last thirty or so percent of the book where you were catching yourself from falling asleep... almost.

Regardless, I think this was a fantastic debut and I eagerly seek out The Glass Magician.
 
Note: a copy was provided courtesy of Charlie N. Holmberg and 47North through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. No compensation was given or taken during this process.   
   
Details:

First Line: For the past five years, Ceony had wanted to be a Smelter.

Publication: September 1st ,2014
Source: Netgalley
 
 
 3.5/4 stars

 *************
 
Review of The Glass Magician
by Charlie N. Holmberg:
  
 
My Thoughts:
 
I loved this book so much. Its my first five star read of the year!
The characters were perfect. Ceony reminds me so much of myself - though admittedly a hell of a lot braver - and Emery is exactly my sort of male romantic interest. On top of that the plot was action-packed and engaging. There was a lot of intrigue and the perfect amount of awesome magical fighting scenes. I loved learning more about the magical lore since this time we get to see more of the different types of magic, namely the Gaffers.

Overall, I enjoyed this so thoroughly that I cannot think of any faults to mention. By far the best book of the year so far. I don't know how I am meant to wait for The Master Magician's release.
 
Note: a copy was provided courtesy of Charlie N. Holmberg and 47North through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. No compensation was given or taken during this process.
   
Details:

First Line: For the past five years, Ceony had wanted to be a Smelter.

Publication: November 4th ,2014
Source: Netgalley
 
5 stars!



If you enjoyed this series, you might also enjoy:


 
 
Blaze of Glory by Michael Pryor
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
Jackaby by William Ritter

2 comments:

  1. Ooh these are both books that I am hoping to read as soon as I possibly can! I am glad to see you enjoyed them both even though the second was better than the last. A unique plot and lovely characters definitely has me attracted!

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    Replies
    1. Its an amazingly good series so I have to strongly reinforce my recommendation! I really hope you enjoy them. The unique plot and lovely character is certainly what makes them.

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