Kid's Korner; Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling (Harry Potter #2) - Book & Movie Review

Kid's Korner is a new weekly feature here at Once Upon a Series where we will be reviewing children's fiction. Whether you're looking for something to read with your little ones (especially with the school holidays now upon us) or just enjoy this type of fiction yourself, hopefully this feature will help to inspire your reading choices.

Once again, Harry Potter pops in... We're not going to give you another review for Book 1 at Once Upon A Series though. You get the idea, me & Chrissie aren't HPVirgins anymore, right? The whole Harry Potter series is worth a re-read though if you, your children, anyone reading this, have read it before. And if you haven't, why not?
Reminder: For the last Harry Potter, which I reviewed for Kid’s Korner as well, I confessed Harry Potter is kinda new to me, but the movies weren’t. I hadn’t read Harry Potter before but of course I’d heard lots and even watched the first three/four movies. I know I’d definitely got up to Prisoner of Azkaban so I decided to write a poem thing about what I knew about Harry Potter before. You'll see it...

Publisher - Bloomsbury Publishing (original)
Publication Date - July 2nd 1998 (original)
Paperback - 341 pages
Genre - Children's Fantasy

Source - Acquired through my brother ;)
Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it
Reviewed by - Amy

Book Info - The Dursleys were so mean and hideous that summer that all Harry Potter wanted was to get back to the Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry. But just as he's packing his bags, Harry receives a warning from a strange, impish creature named Dobby who says that if Harry Potter returns to Hogwarts, disaster will strike.

And strike it does. For in Harry's second year at Hogwarts, fresh torments and horrors arise, including an outrageously stuck-up new professor, Gilderoy Lockheart, a spirit named Moaning Myrtle who haunts the girl's bathroom, and the unwanted attentions of Ron Weasley's younger sister, Ginny.

But each of these seem minor annoyances when the real trouble beings, and someone--or something--starts turning Hogwarts students to stone. Could it be Draco Malfoy, a more poisonous rival than ever? Could it possibly be Hagrid, whose mysterious past is finally told? Or could it be the one everyone at Hogwarts most suspects...Harry Potter himself.

My Harry Potter Poem -
Well I knew who Harry Potter was. You’re a wizard, Harry.
Living with the Dursleys, I knew. Arrived in the night.
Hagrid, Albus Dumbledore and; Minnie Mcgonagall. Professors.
Giants- triple the man Voldermort is,
Or shall I call him He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named?
You-Know-Who. Slytherin.
I knew about that, and have heard of Snape.
There’s snakes and languages wizards sometimes use to communicate,
Speaking to snakes isn’t that normal though-
Should a Gryffindor have that power?
Not a Huffle Puff or a Ravenclaw,
Harry is one of a trio: him, Hermione and Ron-
They go through Hogwarts, year after year.
Death eaters nor Quidditch destroy their friendship.
But- the question is- is there more to Harry Potter?
I believe it must be about more than just those things,
More than just those and a tale of Azkaban to follow, or why is it so popular?
Everlasting hype, is that what made millions recommend it to me?

(No spoilers intended)

My Thoughts-
I was thinking about how to do another fun review for the second Harry Potter book while watching the movie. I was enjoying it but starting thinking about the differences; BAM- I had an idea for a review... Book & Movie, I hope you're OK with that.
Well, we met Voldermort a lot more in this book as now he's kind of stronger, isn't he? My imagination didn't really have change to go wild as having watched (ages ago, don't judge me!) before reading changes things but I think how I'd have imagined lots of it was as it was- there is definitely nothing wrong with the setting portrayal in written form or movie adaptation. Both bring to life a world of imagination... This is something I love authors for doing & when its really successful I kinda feel I don't want to leave Hogwarts. Potterheads, don't worry- we're at Hogwarts in our hearts :D
Anyway, back to the review. If you've read & watched (which please do!), you'll probably notice how inconsistent the drama is in both- I came to appreciate the book's more though as it included it all. The film sometimes took away drama- like when Lucius & Arthur don't fight in the bookshop... How could some of the later things have happened if that didn't help? It would be harder & I don't think it should've been different in the movie. There was no reason to do that & if I'm honest, I liked seeing a Malfoy being beaten to a pulp. I bet that's exactly what Ron wants to do to the Junior Malfoy, isn't it?
I loved how Draco put his finger in a Mandrake's mouth in the film- what an addition to the book that would've been. I nearly cried from laughter... Oh, how I've really come to love Ron too. He grew so much & I feel that really, Hermione ought to like him a lot more now but she's not always very clever... I like how she talks about cleverness & all that, she really is a nice soul (she'd fit in any house besides Slytherin, really). Ron is a Griffindor for a reason, so is his younger sister Ginny. I already knew I adored Ginny...
Anyway, back to the drama. Sometimes there was more drama, like when Harry falls out of the flying car near Hogwarts express... No, that didn't happen! Now I see the issue. Films really don't keep to the books!
Sometimes for reason... I'm going to let you into a little secret here, I hate how in the books everything is often left to the end of the year when they should, or are, doing exams & so forth. Why couldn't really interesting stuff with action happen earlier on the year? In real life, there's always drama and action at school. If a book can't even have a good amount of action all the way through (or enough early on too) I seriously cannot love the book. In the film the earlier bits were sped up, or just plain missed (deathday party for example- I never want to go to one of those FYI), in order for the action to come earlier & engage watchers. It should carry over to books as well. If I hadn't read the first book & found it inventive and intriguing before realizing 'Wait! It's now a few weeks before Summer & something's actually happening!' I don't think I'd have been much interested in the series... It's interesting, of course, you can't deny but there is a little issue in that respect for me.

Summary - So, would I recommend it, I'm just discussing the book now, despite that? Of course! It's a lovely tale of friendship, fantasy & development for a whole range of characters. There's heaps going on at Hogwarts & it's always got mysterious things happening... For a school, it's fun. It's not about who's dating who, it's about what's in the school... And, what can Harry do?
My only regret is, I didn't read these when I was younger & less critical. It's probably fair to say the primary school kids will be blown away & most highschoolers, or adults, find something in the books for them too- will we ever enjoy it as much as the children do? Bless the people who grew up with it & await their Hogwart's letters- I wish I was once one of them...

Kid's Korner; Special review with Harry Potter (by J.K. Rowling)

Kid's Korner is a new weekly feature here at Once Upon a Series where we will be reviewing children's fiction. Whether you're looking for something to read with your little ones (especially with the school holidays now upon us) or just enjoy this type of fiction yourself, hopefully this feature will help to inspire your reading choices.

Once again, Harry Potter pops in... Another HPVirgin defeated as this book is working its way into the Once Upon A Series folks' minds... This is actually quite a different review today but it was really interesting to do & I hope you, any children you may have & even teens really enjoy reading this- if you know any kids thinking of reading, get them to read this & they may be convinced to read, before watching, the Harry Potter series! It's OK to do this of course but I'd love to hear that you've got people to read this, or just you've read it & enjoyed it!

Publisher - Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication Date - June 30th 1997
Paperback - 223 pages
Genre - Children's Fantasy

Both Of Us:
Source - Purchased
Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it
Reviewed by - Amy, with summary from Chrissie.

Book Info - Harry Potter has never played a sport while flying on a broomstick. He's never worn a cloak of invisibility, befriended a giant, or helped hatch a dragon. All Harry knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years. But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to a wonderful place he never dreamed existed. There he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic around every corner, but a great destiny that's been waiting for him...if Harry can survive the encounter. Rescued from the outrageous neglect of his aunt and uncle, a young boy with a great destiny proves his worth while attending Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry.

A special kind of review... You'll see! Doesn't it remind you of our previous joint-review @ Once Upon A Series?

Amy: So, I haven’t read Harry Potter. How?

You must have heard so much, did you say?

Well I knew who Harry Potter was. You’re a wizard, Harry.

Living with the Dursleys, I knew. Arrived in the night.

Hagrid, Albus Dumbledore and Minnie Mcgonagall. Professors.

Giants- triple the man Voldermort is.

Or shall I call him He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named?

You-Know-Who. Slytherin.

I knew about that, and have heard of Snape.

There’s snakes and languages wizards sometimes use to communicate-

Speaking to snakes isn’t that normal though.

Should a Gryffindor have that power?

Not a Huffle Puff or a Ravenclaw,

Harry is one of a trio: him, Hermione and Ron.

They go through Hogwarts, year after year.

Death eaters nor Quidditch destroy their friendship.

But- the question is- is there more to Harry Potter?

I believe it must be about more than just those things.

More than just those and a tale of Azkaban to follow, or why is it so popular?

Everlasting hype, is that what made millions recommend it to me,

Or should I say- push it at me, guilt-tripping me...

I hadn’t read it. But then I did.

Director: CUT! This wasn’t supposed to be a poetry competition. You can’t tell us random things which you knew before reading, what else did you find out during reading? You’ve got to tell us your thoughts. This is a review. You’re writing a poem. So, we’ll need to get someone to help you.

Amy: What? So I’ll do a joint review? You can get someone to do that... Well, I better let the other person speak. Already have spouted over 200 hundred words and I’ve not yet said what I think.
Director: Exactly. Now we’re going to get somewhere. I’m going to get Chrissie to introduce this, is that OK?
Amy: I just said it was OK if they speak. Go on, then *looks at fellow reviewer* Anapneo!
Director: Who said Chrissie had blocked airways?
Amy: She wasn't speaking!
Director: They probably don’t want to speak to someone who has a babbling curse. If we undo it then maybe we can get on with this review in a... well, an efficient manner?
Amy: Pardon? Evanesco Director! *smiles at nicer companion than Director and then blanches* Wait, you’re not Chrissie! I need Chrissie to review this with but, umm... hello! *looks at boy and stands up so she can walk round him, she looks him up and down* No, you’re not really... Not really...
Harry: Um, sorry? I really am Harry Potter, if that’s who you mean. Who’s Chrissie and what do you mean, review?
Amy: You lived with muggles! How do you not know about book reviews? They give books, like your books, fame and then even now- people are still reviewing them, or sharing their opinions about the series with the world. Chrissie and I both review here... You’re in Once Upon A Series’ set and we were just about to discuss “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone”.
Harry: How strange. I don’t know I arrived here. I’m tempted to wipe your memory but in the second book we find out that’s a bad idea- even with the right wand!
Amy: Ah, wands. Can I see your wand, please? I remember you walking into Diagon Alley with Hagrid, finding the shop with wands and really, even you were blown away! Mr. Ollivander sure likes his wands... Remembers every sale, from Hagrid’s wand to He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named, You-Know-Who!
Harry: Surely your set is safe enough to say Voldermort? Surely?
Amy: Shut up. I liked you better in the book. I just plain really liked all three of you especially. You make a fantastic trio, you know?
Harry: Well, thank you kindly.
Amy: I trust you don’t get bigheaded like Hermoine... Or Percy, he’s a lot worse. I don’t know how Ron copes with Hermoine and his brother both jabbering on like they came from the same nest. Talking about nests, I really think Hagrid should stop nurturing baby monsters. I have a feeling the Dragon wasn’t his first monster which got him, and you, in trouble! But, well, we’ll find out. Of course, there is so much to explore in the series and; I’m far from done with your world, Harry... What do you think about the fact that all the time people of many ages are finding the Harry Potter series...?
Harry: If you don’t mind me pointing it out, isn’t this supposed to be about your opinions?
Amy: Well, yes... I think it’s magical. Your turn!
Harry: That’s cheating, and you’ll think I’m bigheaded if I say...
Amy: Well, I’ll say it for you, your adventures are amazing. One thing that did annoy me was how your adventure happened in the middle of the exams, at the end of the year and whatnot. It’s not especially good to have a slow build up of the world, and characters, for more than half a book- why did it need to take half a book- and then zip zam... All the action is gone in a blink and you’re back in safe realms of Hogwarts being awarded house points!
Harry: Zip Zam isn’t a spell, it’s just weird, you know?
Amy: Don’t you know when to keep quiet? How many times? Shut up.
Harry: Maybe you’re pretending to be Hermione. Your hair isn't curly enough, you have the piles of books nailed but so far you haven’t actually corrected me, just told me to be quiet.
Amy: Ha, I’m not Hermoine. Book bloggers are a bit like her though, we definitely like books. Has she really never told you to be quiet?
Harry: *raises eyebrows* You are a muggle, you know.
Amy: I’m actually 2/7 wizard. I have 5 more books to go.
Harry: Go read. I refuse to talk to you anymore...
Amy: Tell Hermoine I love her and not to over-revise for exams, she has the talent and puts my procrastinating soul to shame...
Harry: *mumbles* She puts anyone to shame *disappears in a puff of smoke*
Amy: I really need to learn that spell...
Chrissie: What spell?
Amy: You’re here, finally. You’re late and you missed Harry...
Chrissie: You’re imagining things, Amy. So, you don’t need me?
Amy: You could do the Summary, as you didn't so much as do the introduction *tuts*
Chrissie: I already wrote one in my old review... Anyway, are you sure you met Harry; not Hermione?
Amy: *pouts* Could you read it, please? They won’t know when we transcribe this it’s copy and pasted...
Chrissie: So polite all of a sudden! *winks* We’ll transcribe that in. *coughs* Summary coming up...

Summary (from Chrissie) - A great start to what is supposed to be an amazing series. And I'm sure that things will continue to get even better as the series continues now that the scene has been so beautifully set in this first novel. I can't wait to see what else is in store for Harry and his friends.
(Amy: I literally couldn't wait... Umm, oops? I reviewed it finally though, with a little help from Chrissie, I hope you enjoy the books, or you may have already, & this fun review!)

Other books in this series:
1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Kid's Korner Review: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling (Harry Potter #1)

Kid's Korner is a new weekly feature here at Once Upon a Series where we will be reviewing children's fiction. Whether you're looking for something to read with your little ones (especially with the school holidays now upon us) or just enjoy this type of fiction yourself, hopefully this feature will help to inspire your reading choices.

Admittedly, my choice for this week is one that most of you will have read already, with me being one of the very few people in the entire world not having read any of these books up until a couple of weeks ago. But if you have read it before... maybe it's time for a little re-read?

Publisher - Bloomsbury Publishing
Publication Date - June 30th 1997
Paperback - 223 pages
Genre - Children's Fantasy

Source - Purchased
Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it

Reviewed by - Chrissie

Book Info - Harry Potter has never played a sport while flying on a broomstick. He's never worn a cloak of invisibility, befriended a giant, or helped hatch a dragon. All Harry knows is a miserable life with the Dursleys, his horrible aunt and uncle, and their abominable son, Dudley. Harry's room is a tiny closet at the foot of the stairs, and he hasn't had a birthday party in eleven years. But all that is about to change when a mysterious letter arrives by owl messenger: a letter with an invitation to a wonderful place he never dreamed existed. There he finds not only friends, aerial sports, and magic around every corner, but a great destiny that's been waiting for him...if Harry can survive the encounter. Rescued from the outrageous neglect of his aunt and uncle, a young boy with a great destiny proves his worth while attending Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry.

My Thoughts - So, as I said in my introduction, I am one of the very few people left in the world who hasn't read any of the Harry Potter books, or seen any of the movies for that matter! I have been wanting to read them for so long but, if I'm honest, all the hype surrounding the series has made me a little apprehensive. But I didn't need to worry about that at all as it happens.

I really enjoyed this first instalment of the Harry Potter series. I mean, what isn't to love? There's a brave boy who overcomes all obstacles to save the day, a great support network of friends for him, villains that everybody will love to hate, magic, intrigue, and even a baby dragon... that's got to be a winner, surely?

The friendship between Harry, Ron and Hermione really added to the story for me. It was great watching the three of them grow, both as individuals and as a group. Although I know that, much like the other characters, I would have found Hermione rather annoying. But her heart is in the right place, and she pulls through for Harry when he needs her, so I can't fault her too much.

And I loved the mystery element of the plot, even though I did manage to work out for myself who was behind all the trouble being caused, but that didn't spoil the book too much for me. I found myself getting lost in the world that the author created and really felt as though I was there with the characters. And, just for the record, I'd love a pet owl!

Summary - A great start to what is supposed to be an amazing series. And I'm sure that things will continue to get even better as the series continues now that the scene has been so beautifully set in this first novel. I can't wait to see what else is in store for Harry and his friends.

Other books in this series:
1. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
2. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
4. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
6. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
7. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Kid's Korner Review: Tethers by Jack Croxall

Kid's Korner is a new weekly feature here at Once Upon a Series where we will be reviewing children's fiction. Whether you're looking for something to read with your little ones (especially with the school holidays now upon us) or just enjoy this type of fiction yourself, hopefully this feature will help to inspire your reading choices.

In addition, this review is special today as it’s a joint-review, you’ll cotton on as you read! Can I, Amy, just quickly say thank you to Rita for doing this joint-review with me today! It’s been really fun & I loved it! I hope you, readers, do too!

I know ratings don’t always belong first but I’d like to mention that on Goodreads Rita gave Tethers a 3/5; I rated it 4* out of the same amount. Did either of us have to round? You shall see! But anyway, this is why its a good 'Kid's Korner' choice... I hope you like this review and if you choose to read any of our Kid's Korner selection, that you will (or any children you might have will) enjoy reading them!

Publisher – Self-published
Publication Date - February 5th 2013
Paperback or Kindle Edition – 228 pages
Genre – Young Adult (Historical/Fantasy)
Source – Rita received this for review, I received it from a free kindle promotion on Amazon.
Rating – (actually both of us gave Tethers) 3.5 out of 5 | My GR rating (now for referring to myself in third person)
Reviewed by – Amy (regular co-blogger, also blogs at Amy Bookworm/ Rita @ Weaving Pages (who agreed to do a joint-review as a one-off!)

Book Info –
In the wake of a cold Victorian winter, Karl Scheffer and Esther Emerson discover an anonymous journal filled with strange passages and bizarre scribblings.
The journal soon draws them into a covert and sinister conspiracy, a conspiracy centred around an otherworldly artefact with the power to change everything …
Karl and Esther have spent almost every day of their thirteen years in the quiet market town of Shraye. Stifled by their rural surroundings and frustrated by their unfulfilled ambitions, they find the allure of the journal’s mysterious pages impossible to ignore. The book seems to be beckoning them away from Shraye, away from their homes and towards the coast where an unsolved disappearance has set in motion a dark chain of events.
The voyage the teenagers soon find themselves undertaking is one of desperate importance and true peril; it will change the way they see the world, and each other, forever.

Our Thoughts - 
Rita: What did you think of accents in Tethers?
Amy: I'm not really sure what it added, I thought it was appropriate most of the time but sometimes I just wanted to forget that, it was obvious 'telling'. I like it when I guess the area, and also the time. I am not a history expert so I'm not sure how accurate it was... But for me, it was mainly an asset but I'd understand if it wasn't to everyone's preference (especially international readers!) What was your opinion?

Rita: Personally, the accents really got on my nerves. I ended up being a grammar freak and started replacing Nowt with nothing and Summat with something (In my head of course) I understand that it helped with making the characters seem authentic, but I felt that I would rather read without the accents!

Amy: Summat annoyed me if I'm honest, it doesn't even seem similar... Then again, I think the only reason 'nowt' does is because it makes more sense than 'owt' for anything. The bottom line is, that added up & I know about it! I'm clearly not from the right place ;) Or maybe it's just the wrong century I'm in! Actually, Tethers was great as it transported you but you didn't really want to be in the Victorian England. In many books it's glamorized, Jack Croxall really didn't do that, he made it clear- and this stuck with me- the struggles people, especially women faced. I felt sorry for Esther as she struggles, even early on, with the sexism of Victorian Society. Why shouldn't she get equality? Do you have any particular feelings on Esther or this topic?
Rita: I agree. Jack Croxall definitely didn't glamorize Victorian England which was a good thing, because Victorian England definitely wasn't glamourous. I found myself liking Esther better than Karl. I HATE any kind of sexism so I loved the fact that Esther took care of herself and it was she who learned to fight. Not Karl. In all honesty, Esther was probably better than Karl in some aspects, so I agree that she should be treated the same as him.
Amy: I'm not sure who I preferred, I think I liked that Karl was obviously boyish in some ways, he'd get himself into scrapes & I've been told many times that scientific minds are associated with males more. Karl was bright, and he was brave too. Esther appreciated his help, sometimes needed it but sometimes didn't. Never was she the damsel in distress. But I disliked Mr Cauldwell with a passion- he pressurized Karl & I definitely have a soft spot for him, but not one that makes me crush on him or anything! I'm definitely not but talking about this, do you think you'll come to like Karl more? Would some romance in the sequel help his crush-ability, and the book itself, or not in your opinion (readers, there wasn't any I believe)?
Rita: Karl was bright, and he did do many things that helped the group. I also agree with the fact that Esther was never the damsel in distress. Well, I don't think she'd even let herself be! Mr Caudwell was a bit....weird shall I say (I liked Harland much better!). I didn't dislike him but he was never openly warm and he was a bit stiff! I did like Karl but he wasn't a character that made a huge impact on me. I may come to like him more, but I don't really think any romance would help. This is because I think any romance at this moment in the series would be kind of comical and cheesy. Since Karl and Esther are only 13 at the moment (In my opinion) I think they are a bit too young and it would make me cringe... What do you think about any romance?

Why didn't you read the Epilogue??? I had to
because I CAN'T  not read a part of a book!

Amy: The reason I mentioned romance is because I refused to read the epilogue but often when I think of epilogues I think of quite a bit of time passing... So maybe Tethers' sequel will carry on quite a bit after the last proper chapter (advice to others: stop there to avoid the cliffhanger :L) & they'll be more grown up in which case I think it would be a natural progression. They will definitely become closer together, I predict, but they never will actually interact in the way even 13-year olds, or younger, do often now! You know how I mean... Many start relationships young but I can't imagine any flirting really. They'll either just be content in their company & Karl probably will continue to not be book-boyfriend material in my opinion or there will be a hint of romance which I would be more interested to see in this setting & with these characters than anything else. I don't think it's necessary and it all depends on how it's executed- it could be cheesy but as I don't really know much about Tethers 2 this is really just speculation. Brainstorming, I love it.
Rita: Maybe there will be some time passing between Tethers 1 and 2, and I wouldn't mind if there was some romance then. Still, I honestly can't imagine Karl being on my list of book boyfriends...! The pacing of Tethers got better towards the end. I felt that it took a while to get into the story, so I was a bit Meh. at first but I did come to the conclusion that I liked Tethers. In my opinion it would be around 3.5 stars (What about you?) because I didn't feel that it was anything to amazing, I just like it. I can't put a finger on it but maybe something was missing, did you feel the same way?
Amy: Karl might be too tall for me ;) Nah, I wouldn't say no because of that! I don't think he needs to have that kind of appeal. Readers will like him anyway, and the friendship is still refreshing... If it didn't continue to be I'd be disappointed &would want romance, I'll have to face it, I do like romance :P I wasn't sure how well Tethers would fare in a review if it had one, I've been known to just bang on about cliffhangers & not mention a lot else so I have no regrets. I didn't have particular problems with the beginning but I felt it was mainly OK. At the start I felt more of the atmosphere, even as they were along the canal. The right amount of scenic information was provided & I think everything included then was necessary enough to not be a waste. But a problem I did have with Tethers was the fact at some points too much of the scenery was described & it went over my head. I prefer to feel the atmosphere & that was given earlier on- as soon as they start describing machinery, the exact placement of this cog & that lever... Blah, blah, blah. I just... That's what I didn't like! It wasn't a "Meh" book, I definitely really liked it which should be a 4 star but I'm also leaning closer to 3.5*...
I mentioned pacing because it hadn't felt particularly gripping. At first I want to read it for a buddy read & I was trying to read at a rate faster than is usual for me. But that fell through & I didn't know what to do! Then apparently my Mum had started it (she sometimes reads my kindle books as they transfer to the iPad Kindle app she has, it's sometimes even before I have... or not at all) so I suggested we read a long. I read via kindle & she read via iPad. That's what I think made me read it the most! Then I realized how much I liked sharing this book & my opinions, so I decided to discuss & review it with you!
Rita: Note to Self: Do not let Amy read Cliffhangers. I do like some romance, but it is nice seeing some friendship instead of romance! Like I said, the pacing wasn't the best at the beginning but then I can't say that it became AMAZING...! It also had the right balance of scenery but I agree with the fact that I like to feel the atmosphere rather than go into every single detail!

Summary (provided by Rita):I did feel that the story wasn't really that gripping, it was more an enjoyable read that I just sort of liked (3.5 stars!) I don't have anything else to add! Its loads of fun doing a joint review! Much easier as well!...This truly does speak for Amy as well. (OK, maybe Amy got a GIF to speak for her really!)

Other books in the series:

1. Tethers

2. Sequel to follow (Tethers #2)

Review: Oakleaf Bearers by John Flanagan (Ranger's Apprentice #4)

Publisher - Corgi Yearling
Publication Date - 5th June 2008
Paperback - 352 pages
Genre - YA Fantasy

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 2 out of 5: It was ok

Reviewed by - Chrissie

Book Info - Just as spring approaches and Will and Evanlyn can finally escape Skandia, Evanlyn is carried off by mysterious horsemen. Will sets out after them, but one boy against six fierce Temujai warriors is impossible odds - even for a Ranger's apprentice. Halt and Horace arrive just in time. But the happiness of their reunion is cut short when Halt realizes these Temujai are only scouts for a massive invasion force. The four Araluans must work together with the Skandians to defeat their invaders - if the Oberjarl will accept their help.

My Thoughts - This is the fourth book that I have read in the Ranger's Apprentice series and, although I am enjoying the series as a whole, this one has been the least enjoyable for me so far. My main problem was that it was just far too focused on war for my liking. I'm not a big fan of books about war and this book is full of talk about strategy and preparation and then, later on in the book, the actual war itself. I found myself getting quite bored with it all and skimming through several pages. However, I noticed that the next book in the series seems to go off in a very different direction so I will still be continuing with the series.

As usual, Flanagan has created a cast of loveable characters who I am really enjoying getting to know as they are growing up and developing their skills. Will went through some tough times in the previous book in the series and Oakleaf Bearers show him getting his strength back and regaining the skills that he learnt previously under Halt's direction before he was held hostage by the Skandians. By the end of the book Will reaches Hero proportions again and I loved seeing his confidence grow along with his abilities as a Ranger.

I love Halt and Horace, and their interactions provide some light relief in an otherwise serious book. Halt loves to tease Horace and, as he is quite innocent and niave, Horace never even realises what Halt is doing. However, I didn't much like Evanlyn in this book. She comes across as spoiled and likes having the attention of both Will and Horace and at times plays them off against each other. This is a new side of Evanlyn that the reader hasn't seen before and I hope that she has matured a little more in the next book in the series.

Summary - This is a book full of great characters but the plot was far too war-orientated for my liking. Not a book for people who, like me, finds war talk boring.

Other books in this series:
1. The Ruins of Gorlan
2. The Burning Bridge
3. The Icebound Land
4. Oakleaf Bearers
5. The Sorcerer in the North
6. The Siege of Macindaw
7. Erak's Ransom
8. The Kings of Clonmel
9. Halt's Peril
10. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja
11. The Lost Stories

Other reviews of this book:
Medieval Bookworm / The Book Reviewer

This book counts towards the following challenges:
Book #26 for 2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

Series of the Week: Raine Benares Series by Lisa Shearin

Each Sunday I will be highlighting a series that I have been wanting to read for a while, and that I hope to read very soon! This week my pick is Raine Benares series by Lisa Shearin. I hadn't heard of this series until recently when my co-reviewer Ally recommended it to me, but I think it looks amazing!

Have you read this series? Let me know what you thought!

1. Magic Lost, Trouble Found
Raine Benares is a Sorceress Seeker of average ability until she comes into possession of an amulet that amplifies her powers-and her enemies.

2. Armed and Magical
My name is Raine Benares. Until last week I was a seeker—a finder of things lost and people missing. Now I’m psychic roommates with the Saghred, an ancient stone with cataclysmic powers. Just me, the stone, and all the souls it’s ingested over the centuries. Crowded doesn’t even begin to describe it. All I want is my life back—which means getting rid of the stone and the power it possesses. To sort things out, I head for the Isle of Mid, home to the most prestigious sorcery school, as well as the Conclave, the governing body for all magic users. It’s also home to power- grubbing mages who want me dead and goblins who see me as a thief. As if that’s not enough, Mid’s best student spellsingers are disappearing left and right, and I’m expected to find them. Lives are at stake, goblins are threatening to sue, mages are getting greedier, and the stone’s power is getting stronger by the hour. This could get ugly.

3. The Trouble With Demons
For seeker Raine Benares, a demon infestation on the Isle of Mid couldn't come at a worse time. Already fighting the influence of the Saghred, a soul-stealing stone, Raine discovers she is also magically bonded to a dark mage and a white knight, two dangerous and powerful men on opposing sides.

Turns out, the demons want the key to unlock the Saghred. As a seeker, Raine should be able to find it first. As the axis of light and dark powers, she's a magical cataclysm waiting to happen.

4. Bewitched and Betrayed
Raine Benares is a seeker. She finds lost things and missing people- usually alive. But now she's been bonded with the Saghred, a soul- stealing stone of unlimited power, and must hunt down its escapees. Especially since one of them is also hunting her...

5. Con and Conjure
Raine Benares is a seeker who finds lost things and people. Ever since the Saghred, a soul-stealing stone that's given her unlimited power, has bonded to her, the goblin king and the elves have wanted to possess its magic themselves. Which means a goblin thief and her ex-fiancé-an elven assassin-are after her. To survive, she'll need the help of her notorious criminal family.

6. All Spell Breaks Loose
My name is Raine Benares—and it sucks to be me. The Saghred, a soul-stealing stone that has given me unlimited power, has been stolen by a goblin prince, and with it went my magic. The Saghred is in the goblin capital of Regor, in the hands of Sarad Nukpana, who’s on the verge of becoming the most powerful mage ever...just as soon as I’m dead.

Because Sarad can’t use the stone while I’m alive. Incentive enough to plan a little trip to Regor with a small band of good friends, not-so-good friends, and outright enemies. All we need to do is destroy the Saghred, kill Sarad, and put a renegade prince on the throne. Did I mention I’ll be doing this without magic?

Review: The Icebound Land by John Flanagan (Ranger's Apprentice #3)

Publisher - Corgi Yearling
Publication Date - 7th February 2008
Paperback - 320 pages
Genre - YA Fantasy

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 3 out of 5: I liked it.

Book Info - Will and Evanlyn are bound for Skandia as the captives of the fearsome Skandian wolfship captain, Erak. Halt has sworn to rescue Will, and he will do anything to keep his promise - even defy his King. Expelled from the Rangers, Halt is joined by Horace as he travels through Gallica towards Skandia. On their way they are constantly challenged by freelance knights - otherwise known as thieving thugs. Horace knows a thing or two about combat, though, and he soon begins to attract the attention of knights and warlords for miles around with his uncanny skill. But will they be in time to rescue Will from a life of slavery?

My Thoughts - The first thing I would like to say about this book is that it states on the back that these stories do not need to be read in order as each book is a separate adventure. However, I do not agree with this. There is a strong plot arc throughout this series that I think would make it difficult to read them out of order. The Icebound Land carries on directly from book two with little explanation of past events. I think I would have found it difficult to really understand what was going on if I hadn't already read the first two books in the series and I recommend that they be read in order.

Anyway, now onto the review. Once again, Mr Flanagan has written an engaging adventure story that I think a lot of young boys will love. Will and Evanlyn have been kidnapped by the Skandians and this book tells of their sea voyage to Skandia and how they are sold into slavery once they arrive. I really enjoyed seeing a new mature Will as he is away from Halt and has to try and get himself out of the predicament that he has found himself in. But he never gives up, no matter how desperate the situation seems. I love this aspect of his character and I am sure this will be inspiration to any boys who read this series.

But there are certain things that happen to Will in the second part of this novel that absolutely broke my heart. I just wanted to reach into the pages of the book and give him a big hug. It upset me to think of a young boy being put into such a position and the ending did bring a little tear to my eye. However, this part of the storyline seemed a lot more mature than the rest of the series so far and it makes me wonder if the author is trying to reach out to older readers too. I will be interested to see where the author goes with this as the series continues.

The Icebound Land also details the travels of Halt and Horace as they go in pursuit of Will and Evanlyn in an attempt to get them back. I really started to like Halt in this novel. Up until now I have felt pretty indifferent towards him but, for me, he really shone in this book. He will, literally, go to the ends of the earth to help his apprentice and this really endeared him to me. And I really noticed his sense of humour as he travels with Horace. I felt as though we were finally seeing the human side of the legendary Ranger and I hope to learn even more about him as the series continues.

Summary - An engaging adventure story that had me hooked from the start. But for me, the real strength of The Icebound Land is its lovable and realistic characters. I can't wait to read more about this fascinating group of people.

Other books in this series:
1. The Ruins of Gorlan
2. The Burning Bridge
3. The Icebound Land
4. Oakleaf Bearers
5. The Sorcerer in the North
6. The Siege of Macindaw
7. Erak's Ransom
8. The Kings of Clonmel
9. Halt's Peril
10. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja
11. The Lost Stories

Other reviews of this book:
Eclectic/Eccentric / Kids Reads

This book counts towards the following challenges:
Book #2 for 2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

Review: The Burning Bridge by John Flanagan (Ranger's Apprentice #2)

Publisher - Corgi Yearling
Publication Date - 2nd August 2007
Paperback - 288 pages
Genre - YA Fantasy

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 3 out of 5: I liked it.

Book Info - Will, you are learning well, but you are soon to be tested...

For years the Kingdom has lived in peace, while the evil lord Morgarath has lived beyond the impassable mountains. But he has not been idle...

Now you must embark on your most dangerous mission yet. The King's army has been deceived, and are headed for a brutal ambush. And you are the only one who can save them...

My Thoughts - I really enjoyed the first book of this series so when I was offered the rest of the series for review I jumped at the chance. But I have to admit that I did not like The Burning Bridge quite as much as I did The Ruins of Gorlan.

A lot of the same aspects that I enjoyed from the first novel were there - intrigue, mystery, suspense and adventure. The story finds Will still as Halt's apprentice and once again I enjoyed reading about his learning as he picks up the skills required to become a ranger. A short way into the novel though, Will is told that he is going on a journey to deliver an important message about the upcoming war with Morgarath with a young Ranger and his friend Horace, who is an apprentice at the Battleschool. I really liked seeing Will interact with his friends during this time. By the end of The Ruins of Gorlan it is easy to forget that he is just a fifteen year-old boy and it was nice to see more of his personality come to light as he spent time with people his own age, rather than the super-serious Halt.

Also, a new character came into the story - a young girl called Evanlyn - and I think I'm going to really like her. She is brave and intelligent, with a very caring side. There is an air of mystery around her which made her a very interesting character to read about. I look forward to finding out more about her in the rest of the series.

What made this book less enjoyable than the first one was the amount of strategising there is about the war with Morgarath. This is just a personal thing, but that type of information has never held my interest. As a result of this I felt that some parts of the story moved along at a slower pace than I would have liked and my attention kept on wavering. But I am very hopeful that this will not be the case in book three.

There is a big cliffhanger at the end of The Burning Bridge that has made me very excited about reading The Icebound Land, and I am just very grateful that I already have a copy of it so that I don't have to wait to find out what happens!

Summary - A good addition to the series although, for me, it was let down by the amount of war talk involved. But an amazing ending did go a long way to ensuring that I continue with the series.

Other books in the series:
1. The Ruins of Gorlan
2. The Burning Bridge
3. The Icebound Land
4. Oakleaf Bearers
5. The Sorcerer in the North
6. The Siege of Macindaw
7. Erak's Ransom
8. The Kings of Clonmel
9. Halt's Peril
10. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja
11. The Lost Stories

Other reviews of this book:
Eclectic/Eccentric / Kids Reads
(If you would like your review of The Burning Bridge included here, please leave a link to your review in the comments and I will be sure to add it)

Review: The Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan (Ranger's Apprentice #1)

Publisher - Gorgi Yearling
Publication Date - 5th April 2007
Paperback - 304 pages
Genre - YA Fantasy

Source - Received from publisher for review

Rating - 4 out of 5: I really liked it.

Book Info - Will, you have been chosen.

You and you alone. You will become the eyes and ears of the kingdom, learning to move silent as a shadow. Your arrow will fly true and your sword will be swift, risking your life to protect your people.

You are the Ranger's Apprentice. Are you ready?

My Thoughts - When this book arrived in the post I wasn't really sure what to make of it. I don't normally read fantasy novels but as it looked like a quick and light read I thought I would at least give it a try. And I'm really glad that I did as it was a fun book that did grip me right from the first page (in fact I almost finished it in just one sitting!)

Will is a young boy who is an orphan. He really wants to attend Battleschool and become a brave and strong knight, but he is turned down because he is too small. But the Ranger notices Will and takes him on as his apprentice. It is a Ranger's job to be a spy of sorts for his Kingdom and to put a stop to any attacks that may happen. At first Will isn't happy as not a lot is known about Ranger's, but he soon comes to appreciate the amount of skill it takes to become a good Ranger.

In a short interview with the author in the back of the book, Mr Flanagan tells the reader that he started writing this series as a way to get his young son interested in reading, and also to prove to his son (who was smaller than other boys his age at the time) that 'heroes can come in all shapes and sizes'. And I really do believe that the author has done this perfectly. He created a world that I believe a lot of young boys would be interested in reading about - monsters, heroes, learning to move around in shadows so as not to be noticed by the enemy, protecting an entire kingdom from threat. I can imagine a lot of young boys wanting to be just like Will.

As well as Will, there is another character that I really enjoyed reading about. This is Horace - another orphan who is friends with Will at the start of the book. He is accepted to Battleschool and shows a lot of natural talent but he is being bullied in a big way by three older pupils. I found his story absolutely heartbreaking to read at some points and I just fell in love with him. I can't wait to read more about Horace in future books in the series.

The storyline moves along at a good pace with a nice balance between Will learning the skills that he needs to become a Ranger (I particularly liked these scenes due to the amount of information given) and action as Will and his trainer, Halt, learn of a threat to the King and have to tackle the problem together. There is even a lovely twist at the end that brought a little tear of happiness to my eye.

Summary - A fun and interesting read that grabbed my attention from the first page. I think fans of YA fantasy (in particular, a series about a certain young wizard!) would enjoy this series, and I urge you to get yourself a copy as soon as you can!

Other books in the series:
1. The Ruins of Gorlan
2. The Burning Bridge
3. The Icebound Land
4. Oakleaf Bearers
5. The Sorcerer in the North
6. The Siege of Macindaw
7. Erak's Ransom
8. The Kings of Clonmel
9. Halt's Peril
10. The Emperor of Nihon-Ja
11. The Lost Stories

Other reviews of this book:
Blog Critics / Eclectic/Eccentric / Kids Reads / Literary Odyssey
(If you would like your review of The Ruins of Gorlan included here, please leave a link to your review in the comments and I will be sure to add it)