5+ Stars

If I could give this book more then 5 stars, I would without a second thought. I think "Clone Three" is that good.

I was amazed by Ms. Larsen's writing, it is rhythmic, almost poetic in style. I love when I can lose myself in a story and enjoyed getting immersed in Trio's. I found the concept and the story itself compelling. It does have elements from other books, Lord of the Flys & Maze Runners to name a few but Ms. Larsen mixes those elements in and makes them her own. She delivers a truly amazing story.

So in short (: or long,depending on if you like my review :) I really loved "Clone Three". The story is amazing, the characters so real I felt happy, sad (actually shedding tears sad) and mad as heck right along with them. I fell for Trio and DOG, especially DOG. I love me some DOG. (Wow, does that sound creepy?) Well read the book and I bet you will love yourself some DOG too. (Yeah, that sounds creepy)

This was my first book by Ms. Larsen but most diffidently not my last.

Now.
Where is that DOG?

4/5 stars


** e-Arc provided by Edelweiss **


This being my first book by Ms. McGinnis I was not sure what to expect. And I must admit A Madness So Discreet took me by surprise. It started off slow, I was about a quarter of the way through before I found the rhythm of the story. But once I did I was sucked right in.

This book never raises its voice, it never yells or screams. No demon, vamp, or zombie ever shows their head. Oh, no, A Madness So Discreet whispers in your ear, the shadow that moves by itself, the fingers running down your spine. It shows that monsters can walk in the light. They can smile and fade into a crowd, or worse, they can sit across the dinner table.

A slight Sherlock Holmes/Watson dynamic is woven into the two main characters, Grace and Thornhollow, but it was done well. It also paying homage to Jack the Ripper. I really liked the characters, even the secondary ones were fleshed out.

Darkly gothic the plot uses the victorian era to perfection. Mixing their concept of modern medicine and old world remedies; winding the two into a wonderfully gruesome tale.

The only thing that really bothered me was the ending. Wrapped up too neatly, too quick and easy. I found it somewhat unsatisfying. It keeps this from being a 5 star book.

That being said, I would gladly go on another adventure with Grace and Thornhollow. And look forward to reading some more of Ms. McGinnis' books

It has been a good week for me. A Chris Riddell week.I read Fortunately, the milk... with illustrations by Chris Riddell, and now I read his latest book (100% Riddell) named Goth Girl and the Ghost of a mouse.

I can say I absolutely adored and loved the book. The cover and the pages were beautiful, I love the little skulls adoring the inner pages before you start the book, and if you close the book the pages are purple and shiny. Totally awesome.

Before I start with saying what I thought of the story however, let me mention this little titbit I found while reading. There are 2 parts in the book that mention our lovely main character's eyes. In both sentences the eye colour is said to be green. If you check the cover and the backside of the book however, you will see they are blue. Nothing big, but interesting. :)

Now for the story, ah such a wonderful story. And so many details, so many magical creatures (monsters, harpies and more!), so many fun things. But also sad things. Ada who lost her mom, her father who is still full of grief and avoids Ada.
There are also villains, governesses and a secret club meeting in the attic!

It was really fun to read this book, Chris Riddell's illustrations just completed, complimented and made the story even better.
Also I loved the little book about the mouse and his journey/adventure. :)

Ada was a really lovely and likeable character and I can assure you, you will enjoy her adventures, cheer for her and help her with sleuthing!

I really hope that Chris Riddell will continue with another book about Ada!