Book Review: The Lantern's Ember by Colleen Houck

Title: The Lantern's Ember

Author: Colleen Houck

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publisher: Delacorte Press. - Copyright 2018

Read: Sept. 10-28, 2018

Disclaimer: I received a digital ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Welcome to a world where nightmarish creatures reign supreme.

Five hundred years ago, Jack made a deal with the devil. It's difficult for him to remember much about his mortal days. So he focuses on fulfilling his sentence as a Lantern--one of the watchmen who guard the portals to the Otherworld, a realm crawling with every nightmarish creature imaginable. Jack has spent centuries jumping from town to town, ensuring that nary a mortal--or not-so-mortal--soul slips past him. That is, until he meets beautiful Ember O'Dare. 

Seventeen, stubborn, and a natural-born witch, Ember feels a strong pull to the Otherworld. Undeterred by Jack's warnings, she crosses into the forbidden plane with the help of a mysterious and debonair vampire--and the chase through a dazzling, dangerous world is on. Jack must do everything in his power to get Ember back where she belongs before both the earthly and unearthly worlds descend into chaos.

Review: What first attracted me to The Lantern's Ember was the truly kickass cover. I mean, look at it! A decorated skull. Eerie glowing bugs. It's dark. It's moody. Then, you read the synopsis. Deals made with the devil. Nightmarish creatures. Forbidden travels. Chaos. All these things pointed to a spooky tale perfect for the approaching Halloween season.

Alas, 'twas not to be...

Instead of spookiness, nightmarish creatures, and chaos, I discovered a love square--not a triangle--and trope characters who never stray from their boundaries. Jack is a Lantern tasked with guarding the crossroads between the mortal world and the Otherworld. Ember is a Witch looking for trouble. Dev is an obsessive-possessive vampire. Finney is the guy in love with his best friend. I so wanted to like the characters, but I found them all tedious and their interactions wooden and bordering on boring. Honestly, by the time I reached the end of the book, I was glad it was a standalone and not the first in a series.

Another annoyance I found was the author's decision to use a third person omniscient point of view. I don't mind being inside different character's heads, so to speak, but when the point of view changes midway through a page, then I have a major problem. It's confusing and inevitably kicks me out of the story. This narrative choice also didn't help further the plot, in my opinion. The synopsis led me to believe there would be more adventure and danger, but the plot read more like an overly complicated romance than the fantasy adventure the book was described as being.

While I had major issues with the characters, their story, and the point of view, I did find some redeeming qualities. I enjoyed the explanations for the origins of various Halloween traditions like the jack-o'-lantern, the boogeyman, vampires, werewolves, and Headless Horseman. The Otherworld is describes in vibrant language, and I actually enjoyed the parts of the book set in this world. I may have even liked it more if the plot had lived up to the hype.

Overall, The Lantern's Ember was Frankenstein's creature of steampunk, fantasy, and romance that lumbered along with sparks of brilliance but ultimately collapsed under the weight of overly complicated romantic entanglements, a shoddy plot, and questionable narrative choices.

Review at a Glance:

Concept: B+
Execution: C+
Writing Style: C+
Characters: B
Reader Connection: C+
Overall Grade: C+
Would I Buy This Author Again: Probably not

Review: Cabot's Book of Shadows by Laurie Cabot

Title: Cabot's Book of Shadows

Author: Laurie Cabot

Genre: Witchcraft & Wicca/Religion & Spirituality

Publisher: Copper Cauldron Publishing - Copyright 2015

Read: October 20-26, 2015

Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book through Amazon.com. This review is submitted with no guarantee of compensation from the author or publisher.  All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: For the first time anywhere, the history, lore, rituals, and majick of the Cabot Tradition of Witchcraft, taught by founder Laurie Cabot, the Official Witch of Salem, Massaschusetts, is collected and presented in a single book. Laurie Cabot's Book of Shadows includes the materials of her three-part class series on the Science, Art, and Religion of Witchcraft, as well as guidance for High Priestesses and High Priests of the Craft working on their own or in groups. The Book of Shadows includes Laurie's own recipes for incenses, potions, charms, and spells used and taught by Cabot Witches for decades-a treasure-trove of lore at your fingertips! A must for any practitioner of the Craft of the Witch.

Review: ***Full Disclosure: I have admired Laurie Cabot's work for years, and a few years ago had the amazing opportunity to study with this remarkable woman. Whether you agree with her practices and beliefs or not, there is no denying the power of this Witch.***

If you've ever spent any time perusing the "New Age" or "Witchcraft/Wicca" section in a bookstore, The Only Book of Shadows You Will Ever Need. The problem with many of these books is that they are basic...very basic...and there aren't many books that dive deeper than "Wicca 101." Laurie Cabot has addressed the issue in a beautiful tome titled Cabot's Book of Shadows.

then you know there are a plethora of books claiming to be

Until now the only way to gain the information presented in this book was to study with Laurie Cabot, herself, in Salem, MA. However, Laurie is now giving much of her hard-earned wisdom to anyone wanting to learn more about Witchcraft, specifically the Cabot Tradition.

I won't say this is The Only Book of Shadows You Will Ever Need, but it comes close. The pages are packed with information on rituals, spells, potions, incense, and so much more. In order to gain this much information in the Cabot Tradition, most people would have to study for years under Laurie's guidance, but now anyone can learn the Crystal Countdown in their own home. Anyone can learn the principles of majick and the law of karma.

The book is broken down in to sections by Degrees. First, the reader learns to view Witchcraft as a Science. Then comes Witchcraft as an Art. Finally, the reader is introduced to Witchcraft as a Religion. Cabot's Book of Shadows offers a wealth of information for any practitioner from novice to advanced. This is a truly valuable asset for any Witch to have on their shelf.

Review at a Glance:

Concept: A+
Execution: A
Writing Style: A-
Characters: N/A
Reader Connection: A+
Overall Grade: A

Review: Laurie Cabot's Book of Spells & Enchantments by Laurie Cabot

Title: Laurie Cabot's Book of Spells & Enchantments

Author: Laurie Cabot

Genre: Witchcraft & Wicca/Religion & Spirituality

Publisher: Copper Cauldron Publishing - Copyright 2014

Read: October 5-10, 2014

Disclaimer: I purchased a copy of this book through Amazon.com. This review is submitted with no guarantee of compensation from the author or publisher.  All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Laurie Cabot, the Official Witch of Salem, Massachusetts, opens up her Book of Shadows, the Witch's tome of spells, recipes, and secrets, to share them with the world. Here you will find everything from the essentials of how to create and cast your own spells to detailed recipes and rituals from Laurie's years of experience as a high priestess and Witch.

Review: ***Full Disclosure: I have admired Laurie Cabot's work for years, and a few years ago had the amazing opportunity to study with this remarkable woman. Whether you agree with her practices and beliefs or not, there is no denying the power of this Witch.***

Laurie Cabot's Book of Spells & Enchantments is filled with helpful guides and wisdom for anyone

interested in the practice of Witchcraft. Her advice is sound and offers incredible opportunities for both novice and more seasoned practitioners. This book moves beyond the standard "Wicca 101" book that is so prevalent on shelves theses days and moves into a more in-depth study of a still largely misunderstood spiritual practice.

From teaching the rudiments of spell work to the most complicated of rituals, Laurie addresses the subject with clear authority gained through years of practice. She offers information on the Crystal Countdown--a means to achieve an altered mindset in which to work majick--and the importance of having clear intentions and respecting the law of karma. She discusses altar tools and the setting up of the altar, but the information goes so much deeper than the basics.

Perhaps the most interesting and valuable material gathered in this book is the vast amount of information on Laurie's on Cabot Tradition. Until now, much of the knowledge passed along to the reader here could only be gained by attending workshops in Salem, MA with Laurie herself. Although there is no true substitute for the experience of the workshops, if you've ever been curious about the Cabot Tradition and its practices, Laurie Cabot's Book of Spells & Enchantments is the book for you.

Review at a Glance:

Concept: A+
Execution: A
Writing Style: A-
Characters: N/A
Reader Connection: A+
Overall Grade: A

Review: Ready for It by Chusita Fashion Fever

Title: Ready for It

Author: Chusita Fashion Fever

Genre: YA Nonfiction/Relationships

Publisher: Imprint - Copyright 2018

Read: September 9-10, 2018
Release Date: September 25, 2018

Disclaimer: I received a digital advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: A modern introduction to all things sex, Ready For It delivers honest, accurate information in a wholly relatable voice.

YouTube sensation Chusita Fashion Fever gives no nonsense advice on everything from relationships, sexual identity, your first time and the difference between on-screen sex versus #IRL. And this is about real life; Chusita addresses actual questions and concerns posed by her teenage fans.

The bold package features body-positive comic illustrations and “fun facts” health sections, while Chusita’s signature voice is authentic and non-judgmental; straight and LGBTI readers are welcome. Myths are debunked and taboos explored―allowing readers to learn not only about the logistics of sex, but about consent, respect, self care, and the intuition needed to make mature sexual decisions with confidence.

Review: I don't often review nonfiction books, and it's even rarer for me to review a book on sex. However, I'm glad I took a chance on Ready for It by Chusita Fashion Fever.

Let's be honest. Sex is a delicate subject for teenagers and their parents, even more so in our modern world of fluid gender and sexual identity. Teens and their parents need no longer dread The Talk because Ready for It takes some of the pressure off both teens and their parents. The book isn't a how-to manual for teens looking to have sex. It's more an if-then guide for those who think they may be ready to start exploring their sexuality. Let me be frank: Ready for It DOES NOT advocate random
intercourse among teenagers. However, it DOES advocate INFORMED and RESPONSIBLE decisions by teens.

The author provides real, mater-of-fact advice to teens who are already thinking of engaging in sexual activity, but she also makes it clear that no one should feel pressured to do anything they aren't comfortable doing. The most poignant piece of advice I found within the book is this:

"Remember that the person you owe the most loyalty to in the world is yourself. The only real love that you'll always have, the person you should care for above all else, is you."

The author addresses a variety of topics, including heterosexual and all forms of LGBT relationships, body positivity, and personal responsibility. Accompanying all of this sound information are interesting little side notes from history and modern life. Illustrations are included but these enhance the reading experience and serve to underscore the advice being given.

Overall, the subject of sex and teens is treated with respect and without judgment. In a world filled with confusing and mixed messages, Chusita Fashion Fever has cut through the noise to offer real, sound advice to teens--and their parents--in a completely relatable way. Teens no longer have to feel ashamed for being curious or wanting to ask questions. Ready for It is a perfect solution in an imperfect world that still considers sex to be the ultimate taboo subject.

Review at a Glance:

Concept: A+
Execution: A
Writing Style: A-
Characters: A
Reader Connection: A+
Overall Grade: A

Book Review - Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women & Witchcraft

Title: Toil & Trouble: 15 Tales of Women & Witchcraft

Editors: Jessica Spotswood & Tess Sharpe

Genre: YA Fantasy/Romance

Publisher: Harlequin Teen - Copyright 2018

Read: August 29 - September 6, 2018

Disclaimer: I received a digital advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I also purchased a physical copy via Amazon. All opinions are my own.

Synopsis from Publisher: Scorn the witch. Fear the witch. Burn the witch.

History is filled with stories of women accused of witchcraft, of fearsome girls with arcane knowledge. Toil & Trouble features fifteen stories of girls embracing their power, reclaiming their destinies and using their magic to create, to curse, to cure—and to kill.

A young witch uses social media to connect with her astrology clients—and with a NASA-loving girl as cute as she is skeptical. A priestess of death investigates a ritualized murder. A bruja who cures lovesickness might need the remedy herself when she falls in love with an altar boy. A theater production is turned upside down by a visiting churel. In Reconstruction-era Texas, a water witch uses her magic to survive the soldiers who have invaded her desert oasis. And in the near future, a group of girls accused of witchcraft must find their collective power in order to destroy their captors.

This collection reveals a universal truth: there’s nothing more powerful than a teenage girl who believes in herself.

Review: Toil & Trouble contains fifteen short stories from some of today's best authors in young adult fiction. The variety of approaches the authors take to approaching the subject of women and witchcraft is what makes this book so much fun.

The first story, Starsong by Tehlor Kay Mejia, follows a young astrologer, Luna, who uses social media to connect to the people who are looking for their personalized star charts. However, she soon finds herself at the center of a NASA-obsessed teen who doesn't believe in astrology or magic. What's a girl to do? In Luna's case, she makes a friend who has the potential for more.

Another story I loved greatly was Afterbirth by Andrea Cremer. Set in Colonial America, two midwives find themselves under scrutiny after a difficult birth, with one of them being placed on trial for witchcraft. The reason I enjoyed this story so much is that it reminded me that this sort of thing actually happened to women. Not only did they die in childbirth, but those women who attempted to help others often paid a high price for that assistance because of ignorance. The historical details are great, and I especially liked the inclusion of excerpts from the trial. It just proves that multiple people can witness the same event and walk away with very different accounts.

I also liked The Truth About Queenie by Brandy Colbert. Queenie descends from a family of witches, but it isn't a subject they discuss with outsiders--or even among themselves! When her long-time best friend and secret crush, Webb, returns from a tour as a professional skateboarder with an unexpected companion, Queenie's world is rocked to the core. Can she find it within herself to believe in her abilities and help Webb when he needs her the most?

Not every story includes a romance. Death in the Sawtooths by Lindsay Smith deals with how we approach death and shows that how we face our final moments is just as important as how we live our lives. The Moonapple Menagerie by Shveta Thakrar also skips the romance but is a great story about overcoming obstacles and learning to believe in oneself.

Each story is unique, and offers a different view of women and witchcraft. The romances range from sweet to nonexistent with pairings that cover the range from heterosexual to homosexual, and all are treated with respect and without stereotypical influences. Heavier social themes are also present such as drug use and domestic violence. Again, these are treated respectfully; however, readers who are sensitive to such issues should be wary.

Overall, I found Toil & Trouble a great read and introduction to some authors I had not previously read. Also given the timing of its release, I thought the stories were a perfect way to usher in the first stirring of autumn.

Review at a Glance:

Concept: A+
Execution: A
Writing Style: A-
Characters: A
Reader Connection: A+
Overall Grade: A