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Library Jumpers #1
Thief of Lies
Gia Kearns would rather fight with boys than kiss them. That is, until Arik, a leather clad hottie in the Boston Athenaeum, suddenly disappears. While examining the book of world libraries he abandoned, Gia unwittingly speaks the key that sucks her and her friends into a photograph and transports them into a Paris library, where Arik and his Sentinels—magical knights charged with protecting humans from the creatures traveling across the gateway books—rescue them from a demonic hound.
Jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries would be a dream come true for Gia, if she weren’t busy resisting her heart or dodging an exiled wizard seeking revenge on both the Mystik and human worlds. Add a French flirt obsessed with Arik and a fling with a young wizard, and Gia must choose between her heart and her head, between Arik's world and her own, before both are destroyed.
Jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries would be a dream come true for Gia, if she weren’t busy resisting her heart or dodging an exiled wizard seeking revenge on both the Mystik and human worlds. Add a French flirt obsessed with Arik and a fling with a young wizard, and Gia must choose between her heart and her head, between Arik's world and her own, before both are destroyed.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2016
About the author
Brenda Drake
16 books864 followersBrenda Drake, the youngest of three children, grew up an Air Force brat and the continual new kid at school. Her fondest memories growing up is of her eccentric, Irish grandmother’s animated tales, which gave her a strong love for storytelling. So it was only fitting that she would choose to write stories with a bend toward the fantastical. When Brenda’s not writing or doing the social media thing, she’s haunting libraries, bookstores, and coffee shops or reading someplace quiet and not at all exotic (much to her disappointment).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 522 reviews
December 18, 2015
Hello all, I'm the author, so naturally I'm biased. But this is the book of my heart. It's filled with libraries, magic, and romance and set in some of my most favorite cities. Libraries have always been a magical place for me and there are so many beautiful libraries around the world. I'm sort of jealous that Gia and friends get to visit them all. To quote Gia, “Wouldn't it be awesome if we could go see each one up close and personal?”
March 6, 2017
4.5
Well, starting of this is such a unique idea for a story. I really love the abundance of different magical beings.. that was so good.
I love the idea of these people being able to jump through books/libraries to different realms! I LOVED the idea of magical orbs, each different powers for different people and how when you through them you can control an element or power.
GIA really grew in this story, such a great character who really came into her own. I also liked that the romance was NOT over bearing.
I think my only issue was that there were so many characters and names that sometimes i forgot who was who ... but that was it.. they rest was EPPIIIICCCC...
Right... time to JUMP into book two.. GET IT
JUMP
HAHA
I'M SO PUNNY
Well, starting of this is such a unique idea for a story. I really love the abundance of different magical beings.. that was so good.
I love the idea of these people being able to jump through books/libraries to different realms! I LOVED the idea of magical orbs, each different powers for different people and how when you through them you can control an element or power.
GIA really grew in this story, such a great character who really came into her own. I also liked that the romance was NOT over bearing.
I think my only issue was that there were so many characters and names that sometimes i forgot who was who ... but that was it.. they rest was EPPIIIICCCC...
Right... time to JUMP into book two.. GET IT
JUMP
HAHA
I'M SO PUNNY
December 28, 2017
Thief of Lies by Brenda Drake is the first book in the Library Jumpers young adult fantasy series. The title of the series is completely accurate in describing what to expect when picking this one up, Gia Kearns is with her friends in a library when she spies a cute boy and while watching him he suddenly disappears. When Gia and her friends go looking they find a book the boy left behind of libraries from around the world and when Gia accidentally speaks a phrase she finds she and her friends are pulled through the book and find themselves in a library in Paris.
After finding themselves halfway around the world and not sure how they got there things suddenly get worse when a demonic hound attacks. But the boy that Gia had followed comes to the rescue. Arik explains that he and his friends are Sentinals charged with protecting humans and the gateways in the libraries. After learning of the strange world from which Arik came from Gia finds that she herself has ties to that world that she never knew existed.
Starting out reading Thief of Lies it reminded me strongly of Cassandra Clare’s Shadowhunter books which I absolutely love so I was hoping for a great read right from the opening pages. Thankfully when done I was not disappointed in the least and found this book quickly formed an identity of it’s own and pulled me into it’s fantasy world much the same way the Shadowhunter series books tend to do.
This series may not be for everyone as I think it does end up covering a lot of the old young adult tropes that I see other readers often complaining about but for me this one would be the example of how to add those in and do it well. We have Gia who finds that the reason she’s been awkward all her life is that she doesn’t belong in our world but in this new fantasy one. We have the oh it’s a cute boy so I must drool. We have a bit of a love triangle in play. But no matter what was thrown in I found it all blended into the story seamlessly and kept my attention and interest so in the end I found myself a fan of this series and glad that I gave it a read.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
After finding themselves halfway around the world and not sure how they got there things suddenly get worse when a demonic hound attacks. But the boy that Gia had followed comes to the rescue. Arik explains that he and his friends are Sentinals charged with protecting humans and the gateways in the libraries. After learning of the strange world from which Arik came from Gia finds that she herself has ties to that world that she never knew existed.
Starting out reading Thief of Lies it reminded me strongly of Cassandra Clare’s Shadowhunter books which I absolutely love so I was hoping for a great read right from the opening pages. Thankfully when done I was not disappointed in the least and found this book quickly formed an identity of it’s own and pulled me into it’s fantasy world much the same way the Shadowhunter series books tend to do.
This series may not be for everyone as I think it does end up covering a lot of the old young adult tropes that I see other readers often complaining about but for me this one would be the example of how to add those in and do it well. We have Gia who finds that the reason she’s been awkward all her life is that she doesn’t belong in our world but in this new fantasy one. We have the oh it’s a cute boy so I must drool. We have a bit of a love triangle in play. But no matter what was thrown in I found it all blended into the story seamlessly and kept my attention and interest so in the end I found myself a fan of this series and glad that I gave it a read.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
February 4, 2018
***Updated Review After Re-Read***
Thief of Lies was addicting and completely entertaining. And I'm so glad that I re-read this book! You see, the first time I picked this up, I struggled connecting to the characters. The story was so much fun, but I never felt as though I was fully immersed until Bastien appeared on the pages, and well I'll talk more about him later. But this time around, it all clicked into place. I was so happy because Thief of Lies was an adorable story filled with adventure and magic! And I can't wait to see how this series unfolds!
Time crept by as I waited for Bastien, and I closed my eyes. But the nightmare of where I was and who I didn’t know I was, strangled my breath. Gia Kearns didn’t exist anymore. She’d been lost somewhere on that first day when the gateway book ripped her from her world, dumping her in a dark hole. A fog surrounded me.
But to start, can you imagine what it would be like to jump from library to beautiful library? Well Gia and her friends accidentally jumped through a book and landed in a library in Europe. Yet it's not all ahhh this library is breathtakingly gorgeous and I'm going to sit here and read some fabulous books. They become witness to the Sentinels, who protect the libraries with magic, kill a demonic hound that almost took out Gia, our heroine. Within the group of magical knights that saved them was Arik.
“Did you just check out my boobs?” I whispered. Please say yes.
“No.” He smirked. “Okay, yes. I am a guy.”
That you are. I yanked the covers up to my chin and suppressed a smile.
At first, Arik was everything I adore. Sexy, secretive, protective and with a wounded past. He had so much potential! Yet I had a love hate relationship with him. Luckily, this time around I got why he was being standoffish and cold to Gia. But at other times, he could be so sweet and charming. Yet, I never felt any electricity between Gia and Arik. Their moments together didn't leave me all smiley and giddy, so I truly don't feel like he's the right guy for Gia. Especially when he said things like the quote above. So I nicely stepped off Team Arik.
I gulped down my fear, drew my sword from its scabbard , and kept it close to my side.
Gia had a lot on her plate, and she tried her best adapt while leaving her old life temporarily behind (I can't say why, but you learn the why early on in the book). Yet it took me a while to warm up to Gia. At times, she got caught up in being jealous and boy obsessed. It came across as immature, and I wanted her to work harder on finding herself. But as I watched her deal with her new world and a new set of people/creatures I loved her resilience. Even though she kept getting thrown into situations that were way above her head, I loved how she reacted realistically while she also jumped right in to help others. Gia is someone who showed huge possibilities for growth, and I can't wait to see how much she'll learn and improve as the series progresses.
“With time, I’ll prove to you we belong together. Go ahead and have your fun with Arik, but it’s my arms you’ll end up in one day.”He kissed my cheek and headed over to the gathering crowd. - Bastian to Gia
I have to talk about Bastien now, or I will burst. Oh Bastien. From the first moment that he appeared on the page, I was captivated. He was a wizard who was confident, sexy and strived to do great things while dealing with a broken heart. He fascinated me. And whether it was his sense of knowing himself or knowing what he wanted, he felt so much more grown up than Arik. The words and manor that Bastien spoke to Gia always left the hugest smile on my face. He was respectful, caring and I loved that he seemed in control. So I truly hope Gia sees what I see and comes around. Please oh please don't end up with Aric by the end of this series and break my heart.
“I take it you’re not used to rejection,” I said.
He lifted a smile. “I’ll admit it’s a rare occurrence.”
Arik took a step toward us. “All right, we’re finished here.”
Bastien stood and leaned over to my ear. “You not wanting nobility intrigues me. I’m curious to learn more about you, Gianna.” His whisper tickled my neck and sent a shiver down my back. I held my breath, every inch of my body at attention. He straightened, gave me a wink, and swaggered to the door with Arik on his heels.
Besides Bastian, Gia and Arik, we're introduced to a lot of characters who range from witches, wizards, sentinels, fae etc. On top of that, we learn about many different places and kinds of magic. But I never once felt overwhelmed or lost. We're slowly introduced with little bits of info here and there, except for a few info dumps that were relatively quick. So it was easy to take it all in. And ironically, I thought the story was somewhat simplistic a few chapters in, but I couldn't be more wrong. It continually grew and become more elaborate and layered as each chapter went by. Especially when I started to discover clues and meet people err creatures? who were bent on not only revenge, but also ruling their world and the humans world too. It was so entertaining! So I can't wait to see how the story proceeds, and here's hoping you'll join me and be on Team Bastien!
I grabbed a stapler and crouched behind the nearest cabinet. Nick and Afton ducked down beside me. I pulled the leg down on the stapler, held it up, and readied it to shoot.
“Yeah, that’ll work,” Nick said.
PS I have to give a shout out to her best friend Nick who could be grumpy at times, but I adored him. And Afton, her other best friend, was this lovable girl who warmed me heart! Ohhhh and Lei, she's a Sentinel that is funny, sweet and kick ass. I can't wait for you to meet all of them!
PPS I finished Guardian of Secrets (the 2nd book in the series) last night and LOVED! It's 4.5 Stars and this series just gets better and better! My review will be posted on February 6th with the Blog Tour. ♥
This review was originally posted on Star-Crossed Book Blog
For more of my reviews, please visit: 
December 24, 2015
Wish you could visit all the libraries in the world? Wouldn’t it be incredible to go from library to library, all in the drop of eye? So what better way to travel than by book? But wait; would a broody guy to accompany you who also looks good in leather I might add, sweeten the deal? How about a magical prophecy, impending doom, evil creatures at every turn but you can kick ass with your new found magical abilities? If the booknerd in you is screaming to get out then welcome to your next read, Thief of Lies is everything you want from a debut Fantasy.
Gia it a total bookworm, she loves being surrounded by old and new titles and can often be found nose deep in a book. The ever-inquisitive Gia observes what she thinks is just a normal guy in the library but when he disappears into a book, she can’t help but delve deeper into his mysterious disappearance. In doing so she sucks herself and her friends into the book, only to come out half way across the world in Paris and face to face with a demon. Tossed into a magical world she knows nothing about Gia must try her best to save her friends but when she’s the answer to a long forgotten prophecy, her seemingly normal life will never be the same again.
“Gia, you can never be lonely in the company of books.”
Firstly I just need to say how I much I enjoyed Gia as an MC. She was strong, clever and witty but what I appreciated most about her was her practical, realistic nature. Time and time again in YA heroines go above and beyond to prove that they are not ‘weak’ and this usually ends in disaster. Gia is by no means weak but she is pragmatic, she’s new to this world and doesn’t have much knowledge on magic so when it comes to a situation where she could potentially do more harm than good she doesn’t whine but accepts that this isn’t her fight… well not just yet anyway.
The world building was slow and steady allowing you to adapt along the way, the same goes for the magic, magical creatures and politics of this new world. The romance was adorable and I found myself swooning a time or two, there’s also a possibility of another ship on the horizon and I think given enough time, I just may jump ship but this is not your ordinary good-guy, bad-guy love triangle, not by long shot. It’s the romance that slowly grows on you and before long you’ve completely change your mind, you have to love a ever-changing plot.
Overall Thief of Lies was a spectacular debut by Drake, filled with action, adventure, magic, romance and BOOKS. This fast-paced fantasy filled debut is one you don’t want to miss in 2016. I can’t wait to see what Drake does next and I will be eagerly awaiting Book 2 in the Library Jumpers series. This is a must read for fans of The Girl at Midnight!
Literary-ly Obsessed
Gia it a total bookworm, she loves being surrounded by old and new titles and can often be found nose deep in a book. The ever-inquisitive Gia observes what she thinks is just a normal guy in the library but when he disappears into a book, she can’t help but delve deeper into his mysterious disappearance. In doing so she sucks herself and her friends into the book, only to come out half way across the world in Paris and face to face with a demon. Tossed into a magical world she knows nothing about Gia must try her best to save her friends but when she’s the answer to a long forgotten prophecy, her seemingly normal life will never be the same again.
“Gia, you can never be lonely in the company of books.”
Firstly I just need to say how I much I enjoyed Gia as an MC. She was strong, clever and witty but what I appreciated most about her was her practical, realistic nature. Time and time again in YA heroines go above and beyond to prove that they are not ‘weak’ and this usually ends in disaster. Gia is by no means weak but she is pragmatic, she’s new to this world and doesn’t have much knowledge on magic so when it comes to a situation where she could potentially do more harm than good she doesn’t whine but accepts that this isn’t her fight… well not just yet anyway.
The world building was slow and steady allowing you to adapt along the way, the same goes for the magic, magical creatures and politics of this new world. The romance was adorable and I found myself swooning a time or two, there’s also a possibility of another ship on the horizon and I think given enough time, I just may jump ship but this is not your ordinary good-guy, bad-guy love triangle, not by long shot. It’s the romance that slowly grows on you and before long you’ve completely change your mind, you have to love a ever-changing plot.
Overall Thief of Lies was a spectacular debut by Drake, filled with action, adventure, magic, romance and BOOKS. This fast-paced fantasy filled debut is one you don’t want to miss in 2016. I can’t wait to see what Drake does next and I will be eagerly awaiting Book 2 in the Library Jumpers series. This is a must read for fans of The Girl at Midnight!
Literary-ly Obsessed
Shelved as 'dnf'
February 8, 2016DNF @ 27% because it's boring AF
This book, I must say got one of the coolest premise ever. I mean, Jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries is definitely every bookish people's dream, so reading about this kind of story line is a big yes - turns out, this thing is too good to be true, pun intended.
The story started when Gia and her friends visited a library for a homework or something I can't really bothered to remember why. Gia then bump into a super handsome and gorgeous looking guy with a sexy accent at the library, who started flirting with her by quoting a verse from her favorite book. Would have been sweet if you ask me, but for some reason I found it unbelievable, stupid and unnecessary. Anyway, she was obviously attracted to him so she stare at him like a creep and the guy suddenly disappeared which made Gia curious that she started investigating the book she last saw him touch. Turns out the book was a key or a portal that can transport people into beautiful libraries from all over the world.
Everything about this book does not make any sense to me. Like, Gia's 2 friends are suddenly in danger because apparently, humans aren't allowed to travel using the books, or a compelled something will start hunting them to death. I mean, why would you leave a book that important lying around? Fine, let say only Mystik people can activate the key, but why can it also travel humans? Also, we are talking about magic here people. If they can just delete people's memories what is the used of hunting them just because of accidentally jumping because of their own stupidity?
The book tried to make a different attack with the writing style but I think it just made things more confusing. At least for me. Information are dropped everywhere, talk about information overload. It felt like the books tried to give information about the world in one go to focus more on the sequence of the story. The characters are unlikable either. They didn't have their own personalities which made them forgettable.
I honestly can't find a single good reason to continue reading this book, not that I haven't tried, because I did. I would have wanted to read the book up to 50% before I call it quits but I just can't anymore. I find it really disappointing that the mention of library is just a big ploy to get the readers excited. Ugh.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, thank you**
This book, I must say got one of the coolest premise ever. I mean, Jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries is definitely every bookish people's dream, so reading about this kind of story line is a big yes - turns out, this thing is too good to be true, pun intended.
The story started when Gia and her friends visited a library for a homework or something I can't really bothered to remember why. Gia then bump into a super handsome and gorgeous looking guy with a sexy accent at the library, who started flirting with her by quoting a verse from her favorite book. Would have been sweet if you ask me, but for some reason I found it unbelievable, stupid and unnecessary. Anyway, she was obviously attracted to him so she stare at him like a creep and the guy suddenly disappeared which made Gia curious that she started investigating the book she last saw him touch. Turns out the book was a key or a portal that can transport people into beautiful libraries from all over the world.
Everything about this book does not make any sense to me. Like, Gia's 2 friends are suddenly in danger because apparently, humans aren't allowed to travel using the books, or a compelled something will start hunting them to death. I mean, why would you leave a book that important lying around? Fine, let say only Mystik people can activate the key, but why can it also travel humans? Also, we are talking about magic here people. If they can just delete people's memories what is the used of hunting them just because of accidentally jumping because of their own stupidity?
The book tried to make a different attack with the writing style but I think it just made things more confusing. At least for me. Information are dropped everywhere, talk about information overload. It felt like the books tried to give information about the world in one go to focus more on the sequence of the story. The characters are unlikable either. They didn't have their own personalities which made them forgettable.
I honestly can't find a single good reason to continue reading this book, not that I haven't tried, because I did. I would have wanted to read the book up to 50% before I call it quits but I just can't anymore. I find it really disappointing that the mention of library is just a big ploy to get the readers excited. Ugh.
“Gia, you can never be lonely in the company of books.”If this is the kind of book that will accompany me I think I'll just have to pass.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, thank you**
May 11, 2016
Personally, I prefer Bastien to Arik though...
April 11, 2016
~ARC Kindly provided by Netgalley and Entangled Teen in exchange for an honest review~
Generally, I rate a book 2 stars when it misses “that something special” to impress me. In this case, the situation is precisely the other way around, though.
This book starts from a cool premise that any booklover will adore (“Gia, you can never be lonely in the company of books”) and presents many original and interesting ideas. The problem is that Thief of Lies is saturated with too, too many different ideas, all of them only superficially developed.
In Thief of Lies you can find: fast action, tons of secrets, a hidden child, a Mystik world intertwined with the human world, insta-love, a prophecy, riddles, a hint of love triangle*, Sentinels descending from ancient knights, magic, betrothals, forbidden love, another hidden child, DNA manipulations, visions from the past, changelings, monsters, wizards, seers, pseudo-vampires, Faes, intricate family bonds**, magic spells in Italian (which, apparently, is Latin 2.0) ***, undercover spies, the end of the world,absurd eye-roll worthy awkward romantic scenes****.
The result? At the end, I felt overwhelmed and confused: everything happens too fast, characters are flat, the worldbuilding is thin and inconsistent, the magical system is only sketched and not deeply explained… and what about libraries & books? They’re just the marginal backdrop to the story, useful portals to jump from one part of the world to another and nothing more.
*Needless to say that both the two guys are extremely hot and super-sexy – a concept (their sexiness) repeated ad nauseam.
**
***Sadly there are even some imprecisions/mistakes in the Italian formulas…
****An example?
Generally, I rate a book 2 stars when it misses “that something special” to impress me. In this case, the situation is precisely the other way around, though.
This book starts from a cool premise that any booklover will adore (“Gia, you can never be lonely in the company of books”) and presents many original and interesting ideas. The problem is that Thief of Lies is saturated with too, too many different ideas, all of them only superficially developed.
In Thief of Lies you can find: fast action, tons of secrets, a hidden child, a Mystik world intertwined with the human world, insta-love, a prophecy, riddles, a hint of love triangle*, Sentinels descending from ancient knights, magic, betrothals, forbidden love, another hidden child, DNA manipulations, visions from the past, changelings, monsters, wizards, seers, pseudo-vampires, Faes, intricate family bonds**, magic spells in Italian (which, apparently, is Latin 2.0) ***, undercover spies, the end of the world,
The result? At the end, I felt overwhelmed and confused: everything happens too fast, characters are flat, the worldbuilding is thin and inconsistent, the magical system is only sketched and not deeply explained… and what about libraries & books? They’re just the marginal backdrop to the story, useful portals to jump from one part of the world to another and nothing more.
*Needless to say that both the two guys are extremely hot and super-sexy – a concept (their sexiness) repeated ad nauseam.
**
***Sadly there are even some imprecisions/mistakes in the Italian formulas…
****An example?
He gave me a crooked smile, his gaze dropping to my chest.
“Did you just check out my boobs?” I whispered. Please say yes.
“No.” He smirked. “Okay, yes. I am a guy.”
June 7, 2016
DNF
I am really and I mean really tired of posting full reviews for DNF's. So I've decided to type a mini review.
While I was reading this I felt that it was very childish. And I know that says something because I've read quite a few MG books. But this felt very childish compared to all the MG books that I've read.
I recommend this to fantasy fans.
I am really and I mean really tired of posting full reviews for DNF's. So I've decided to type a mini review.
While I was reading this I felt that it was very childish. And I know that says something because I've read quite a few MG books. But this felt very childish compared to all the MG books that I've read.
I recommend this to fantasy fans.
March 19, 2017
Buddyread with Melissa
----
*****
DNF at 51% (Rating is just for what I've read so far... I think halfway is enough for me to do that. )
2 stars for execution and writing, 2.5 for the idea of the library jumping and creatures/magic.
The idea of this world intrigued me (and yes the "library jumping" part is what first hooked me) but the way everything was handled left me underwhelmed.
Also got tired of hearing how 'hot' and other terms Arik was from Gia... and before any naysayers complain... it was because I felt like I was getting hit over the head with it... and the 'romance/almost romance' confessions felt forced to me, I couldn't sense chemistry at all between them. Forbidden love can be an exciting storyline if done right, but this one had me cringing.
Not for me but it seems I'm in the minority here.
----
*****
DNF at 51% (Rating is just for what I've read so far... I think halfway is enough for me to do that. )
2 stars for execution and writing, 2.5 for the idea of the library jumping and creatures/magic.
The idea of this world intrigued me (and yes the "library jumping" part is what first hooked me) but the way everything was handled left me underwhelmed.
Also got tired of hearing how 'hot' and other terms Arik was from Gia... and before any naysayers complain... it was because I felt like I was getting hit over the head with it... and the 'romance/almost romance' confessions felt forced to me, I couldn't sense chemistry at all between them. Forbidden love can be an exciting storyline if done right, but this one had me cringing.
Not for me but it seems I'm in the minority here.
February 3, 2016
2,5 stars
What I loved:
• I loved the idea of the book. It was promising in the beginning, but not impressive in the end.
• Humor. I did found some pretty funny lines and dialogues.
• Batiste. He was the only character I liked. Others were underdeveloped or too pretentious.
• Libraries ;)
What I found cliche:
• insta-love and love triangle. No, two love triangles. The romance is ridiculously unbelievable.
• the overuse of the word "sexy" made me want to hit something.
• I was overwhelmed by so many events and plot twists. You could write a trilogy using the material from this book.
• I am tired from relationships like : "We can't be together", "We must try. We have only now.", "It is against the law", "I fancy you", "We are just friends"............
• The first chapter didn't draw me in like most book did. In fact I was too busy noticing cliches.
I don't know how to talk about this. I did think I was going to enjoy this, but it was too much. I had a headache after finishing this book.
I'm getting tired of this.
Give me something juicier, something more thoughtful.
So while it was a funny read and something between Shadowhunters and Trylle trilogy...it was also filled with flat characters, overacting villains and confused me with so many events/confessions/discoveries.
What I loved:
• I loved the idea of the book. It was promising in the beginning, but not impressive in the end.
• Humor. I did found some pretty funny lines and dialogues.
• Batiste. He was the only character I liked. Others were underdeveloped or too pretentious.
• Libraries ;)
What I found cliche:
• insta-love and love triangle. No, two love triangles. The romance is ridiculously unbelievable.
• the overuse of the word "sexy" made me want to hit something.
• I was overwhelmed by so many events and plot twists. You could write a trilogy using the material from this book.
• I am tired from relationships like : "We can't be together", "We must try. We have only now.", "It is against the law", "I fancy you", "We are just friends"............
• The first chapter didn't draw me in like most book did. In fact I was too busy noticing cliches.
I don't know how to talk about this. I did think I was going to enjoy this, but it was too much. I had a headache after finishing this book.
I'm getting tired of this.
Give me something juicier, something more thoughtful.
So while it was a funny read and something between Shadowhunters and Trylle trilogy...it was also filled with flat characters, overacting villains and confused me with so many events/confessions/discoveries.
January 8, 2016
It's always a relief when you find a YA book that:
(A) Uses unique concepts,
(B) Features intriguing character names,
or
(C) Entertains and delights you, the reader.
And when you find one that contains all three...you know you've found a winner. As is the case with Brenda Drake's amazing Thief of Lies.
Book cover: First of all, the colour theme is simply stunning. I love the colour purple something fierce and this cover uses it to project an overall feel of mystery and magic that draws the reader in immediately.
The cover model is also a major win. She's a perfect Gia from head to toe! Her over-the-shoulder look and fierce gaze - paired with the magical object in hand - make for a cover that you won't forget any time soon (and one you'll definitely want gracing your bookshelf).
She looks like she knows all of your secrets. Also she kinda looks like she belongs on the cast of Disney's Descendants!
I am loving the tagline too. Already my curiosity had reached dangerous levels and I haven't even opened the book yet. Hopefully nobody really dies though...I don't think my bookworm heart could take it!
Soooooo much font envy right now. Just look at the perfection that is the cursive 'of'. IT IS SO PRETTY OMGOMG.
Plot: I've always believed that libraries were magical places full of books that transported you to other worlds. In Thief of Lies Brenda Drake makes all my wishes come true and makes sure that next time you visit a library you'll be searching relentlessly for leather clad hotties between the bookshelves!
Thief of Lies is a magical mix of real-world and fantasy elements which Brenda Drake has blended together most skilfully to create a plot that entertains and informs. But of course the highlight of the plot is the heroine...and her knight in shining armour.
Gia is definitely a YA heroine to watch out for. First off, her name is everything. Gia Kearns is an awesome name, as are all the character names in this book (can I get a cheer for Arik?!). I love a book with unique and easy-to-pronounce names so reading Thief of Lies was a total treat!
But Gia is more than a pretty name. Her inner thoughts, broadcasted to the reader in italics throughout the book are so much fun to read. It makes Gia that much more down-to-earth and relatable, in turn making her world and her adventures more accessible to the reader. Gia's loveable dorky streak is matched by her strength and bravery, making for a heroine you'll love to root for.
As for Arik...insert much fangirling here ;)
Favourite quote:
'A memory grabbed at my heart. I was about eight and missing my mother, and Nana Kearns took me to a library. She'd said "Gia, you can never be lonely in the company books."'
Have you read Thief of Lies? Which book would you jump in to if you had the chance?
Let me know in the comments below!
A big thank you to EntangledTEEN and Brenda Drake for the ARC copy of this book. Although I was provided with a review copy by the author and/or publisher, however all opinions expressed in the following reviews are purely my own. To find out more, please visit my blog's disclaimer page.
(A) Uses unique concepts,
(B) Features intriguing character names,
or
(C) Entertains and delights you, the reader.
And when you find one that contains all three...you know you've found a winner. As is the case with Brenda Drake's amazing Thief of Lies.
Book cover: First of all, the colour theme is simply stunning. I love the colour purple something fierce and this cover uses it to project an overall feel of mystery and magic that draws the reader in immediately.
The cover model is also a major win. She's a perfect Gia from head to toe! Her over-the-shoulder look and fierce gaze - paired with the magical object in hand - make for a cover that you won't forget any time soon (and one you'll definitely want gracing your bookshelf).
She looks like she knows all of your secrets. Also she kinda looks like she belongs on the cast of Disney's Descendants!
I am loving the tagline too. Already my curiosity had reached dangerous levels and I haven't even opened the book yet. Hopefully nobody really dies though...I don't think my bookworm heart could take it!
Soooooo much font envy right now. Just look at the perfection that is the cursive 'of'. IT IS SO PRETTY OMGOMG.
Plot: I've always believed that libraries were magical places full of books that transported you to other worlds. In Thief of Lies Brenda Drake makes all my wishes come true and makes sure that next time you visit a library you'll be searching relentlessly for leather clad hotties between the bookshelves!
Thief of Lies is a magical mix of real-world and fantasy elements which Brenda Drake has blended together most skilfully to create a plot that entertains and informs. But of course the highlight of the plot is the heroine...and her knight in shining armour.
Gia is definitely a YA heroine to watch out for. First off, her name is everything. Gia Kearns is an awesome name, as are all the character names in this book (can I get a cheer for Arik?!). I love a book with unique and easy-to-pronounce names so reading Thief of Lies was a total treat!
But Gia is more than a pretty name. Her inner thoughts, broadcasted to the reader in italics throughout the book are so much fun to read. It makes Gia that much more down-to-earth and relatable, in turn making her world and her adventures more accessible to the reader. Gia's loveable dorky streak is matched by her strength and bravery, making for a heroine you'll love to root for.
As for Arik...insert much fangirling here ;)
Favourite quote:
'A memory grabbed at my heart. I was about eight and missing my mother, and Nana Kearns took me to a library. She'd said "Gia, you can never be lonely in the company books."'
Have you read Thief of Lies? Which book would you jump in to if you had the chance?
Let me know in the comments below!
A big thank you to EntangledTEEN and Brenda Drake for the ARC copy of this book. Although I was provided with a review copy by the author and/or publisher, however all opinions expressed in the following reviews are purely my own. To find out more, please visit my blog's disclaimer page.
December 13, 2015
Can I just that I loved this book? Gia is a strong, determined, and observant character who loves books and libraries, but who also has won many awards in fencing. When she sees a guy in leather gear disappear from the reading room at the Boston Anthenæum, she's quick to investigate and unwittingly sends her and her friends through one of the gateway books to a library in Paris.
So much to love about this book, but I especially loved how relatable Gia is and how well developed the world is without feeling like you're given one big info dump with all you (and Gia) need to know. Brenda Drake slowly builds the background, visions, magic, and gives many OMG moments that make it hard to put down. Readers and librarians will love this book, and it was a bonus that there is a cast of diverse characters in both the human and Mystik worlds.
Best of all, the book ends in a satisfying way, but is open to pure epicness in the subsequent books. Can't wait!
So much to love about this book, but I especially loved how relatable Gia is and how well developed the world is without feeling like you're given one big info dump with all you (and Gia) need to know. Brenda Drake slowly builds the background, visions, magic, and gives many OMG moments that make it hard to put down. Readers and librarians will love this book, and it was a bonus that there is a cast of diverse characters in both the human and Mystik worlds.
Best of all, the book ends in a satisfying way, but is open to pure epicness in the subsequent books. Can't wait!
December 7, 2016
Rating: 4.5/5
Having participated in the cover reveal for the sequel to this book, I was intrigued enough to want to read this one and what a surprise it turned out to be! I’m not quite sure what I expected, but I certainly hadn’t anticipated it being such an enthralling page turner. It is a YA fantasy in which Gia Kearns is in the Boston Athenaeum with her two best friends when the hottie she’d been looking at suddenly disappears right in front of her. As she doesn’t believe this is possible, she goes to investigate and inadvertently speaks the key phrase that sucks her - and her friends - into the book and away to a library in Paris! Suitably shocked already, they are then attacked before being rescued. This leads on to secrets being uncovered, new abilities being discovered, shocking news about family members and one heck of a brilliant adventure!
This is a fast paced story with well developed characters and a magically world to discover. I’m, fairly obviously, someone who loves books and the premise of being able to jump to libraries around the world through magical books, protected by magical knights against magical and demonic creatures, with skilful wizards on both sides! There are even romantic interests sparked, though these can prove both distracting and a dilemma - especially to Gia! I can’t wait to read more in this series which is supposedly for teens but still thoroughly enjoyable to those who, like me, left their teen years behind a few decades ago! This is a fast paced, action packed start to what promises to be an enthralling series. the characters are well developed, with plenty of angst, drama and secrets to be revealed. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone who enjoys adventures with magical mysteries, battles to be won and humanity to be saved!
Many thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC of this novel with no obligation. This is my honest review.
Having participated in the cover reveal for the sequel to this book, I was intrigued enough to want to read this one and what a surprise it turned out to be! I’m not quite sure what I expected, but I certainly hadn’t anticipated it being such an enthralling page turner. It is a YA fantasy in which Gia Kearns is in the Boston Athenaeum with her two best friends when the hottie she’d been looking at suddenly disappears right in front of her. As she doesn’t believe this is possible, she goes to investigate and inadvertently speaks the key phrase that sucks her - and her friends - into the book and away to a library in Paris! Suitably shocked already, they are then attacked before being rescued. This leads on to secrets being uncovered, new abilities being discovered, shocking news about family members and one heck of a brilliant adventure!
This is a fast paced story with well developed characters and a magically world to discover. I’m, fairly obviously, someone who loves books and the premise of being able to jump to libraries around the world through magical books, protected by magical knights against magical and demonic creatures, with skilful wizards on both sides! There are even romantic interests sparked, though these can prove both distracting and a dilemma - especially to Gia! I can’t wait to read more in this series which is supposedly for teens but still thoroughly enjoyable to those who, like me, left their teen years behind a few decades ago! This is a fast paced, action packed start to what promises to be an enthralling series. the characters are well developed, with plenty of angst, drama and secrets to be revealed. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone who enjoys adventures with magical mysteries, battles to be won and humanity to be saved!
Many thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC of this novel with no obligation. This is my honest review.
December 28, 2017
Secret, magic and libraries.
Gia and her friends are going to visit a lush library, Boston Athenaeum. Every reader's dream, right? Little does she know, she is about to uncover a hidden deadly secret. She sees an interesting character in the library that seems to just disappear. Gia can't help herself and goes to check out the book he's been reading. Before she knows it she has discovered the truth behind her family, and the world she didn't know existed. She and her friends are sucked into the book and find themselves in a different library. Now the clock is ticking as not everyone is happy with their discovery. They meet some new friends, explore the unknown, find out all about magic and a potential prophesy.
Thief of lies is the first book in a trilogy. It's the setup novel and it has quite a bit of ground to cover. I liked the idea of the book more than the execution. Now we know the characters, and the scene is set I'm hoping book two will be so much more.
3.5 so it of 5. A good starting point.
*ARC
Gia and her friends are going to visit a lush library, Boston Athenaeum. Every reader's dream, right? Little does she know, she is about to uncover a hidden deadly secret. She sees an interesting character in the library that seems to just disappear. Gia can't help herself and goes to check out the book he's been reading. Before she knows it she has discovered the truth behind her family, and the world she didn't know existed. She and her friends are sucked into the book and find themselves in a different library. Now the clock is ticking as not everyone is happy with their discovery. They meet some new friends, explore the unknown, find out all about magic and a potential prophesy.
Thief of lies is the first book in a trilogy. It's the setup novel and it has quite a bit of ground to cover. I liked the idea of the book more than the execution. Now we know the characters, and the scene is set I'm hoping book two will be so much more.
3.5 so it of 5. A good starting point.
*ARC
January 21, 2018
I give this book 5 out of 5 Magical Stars!!!💖💛💙💚💜!!!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this BOOK!!!💖💛💙💚💜 When I requested copies of this series from the publisher I was definitely intrigued but the results I received absolutely blew me away! This has to be one of my all time favorite fantasy books of all time now! I just could not put this fantasy masterpiece down and it was well worth the lost sleep! I am so thankful for the recommendation from my friends Kim and Carrie’s recommendation of this book! Brenda Drake can truly work magic!
I loved the characters in this story! I loved Gia, Afton and Nick together from the beginning and seeing them grow was awesome. On the mystical romance side for Gia, I fell in love with Arik but when I met Bastian I fell head over heels! Omg and the setting was just AMAZING! I mean the world’s most beautiful libraries, a magical world and Boston! I loved seeing how different magical lesson unfolded. I really loved Gia as a character she was so realistic! She had so many insecurites but was so strong. Gia was genuine and didn’t even realize how much magic she really held in so many ways. I loved the culture of the fantasy world and how the two worlds collided! It was just so magical and I loved learning about the new types of mystikal creatures and people! So to wrap everything up, I can’t recommend or sing enough praises of this book! Thanks so much Ms. Drake for the adventure of a lifetime! I have to go right into the next one! This book is Dani-approved!💖
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this BOOK!!!💖💛💙💚💜 When I requested copies of this series from the publisher I was definitely intrigued but the results I received absolutely blew me away! This has to be one of my all time favorite fantasy books of all time now! I just could not put this fantasy masterpiece down and it was well worth the lost sleep! I am so thankful for the recommendation from my friends Kim and Carrie’s recommendation of this book! Brenda Drake can truly work magic!
I loved the characters in this story! I loved Gia, Afton and Nick together from the beginning and seeing them grow was awesome. On the mystical romance side for Gia, I fell in love with Arik but when I met Bastian I fell head over heels! Omg and the setting was just AMAZING! I mean the world’s most beautiful libraries, a magical world and Boston! I loved seeing how different magical lesson unfolded. I really loved Gia as a character she was so realistic! She had so many insecurites but was so strong. Gia was genuine and didn’t even realize how much magic she really held in so many ways. I loved the culture of the fantasy world and how the two worlds collided! It was just so magical and I loved learning about the new types of mystikal creatures and people! So to wrap everything up, I can’t recommend or sing enough praises of this book! Thanks so much Ms. Drake for the adventure of a lifetime! I have to go right into the next one! This book is Dani-approved!💖
April 9, 2016
Gia and her friends suddenly find themselves transported to a Paris library while investigating a book left behind by Arik, a leather-clad hottie, in the Boston Athenaeum. In the Paris library, Arik and his team of Sentinels, magical knights who protect humans from the creatures travelling via gateway books, rescue them from a demonic hound. Gia quickly realizes that she's not at all the person she thought she was - she, too, is a Sentinel of the Mystik world. She also learns that one wizard wants revenge on the Mystik and human worlds and will stop at nothing to destroy everything she holds dear. And, Gia will have to choose between two absurdly sexy boys - Arik, who she is forbidden to be with, and Bastien, a young wizard and the socially approved of choice.
I really wanted to like Thief of Lies by Brenda Drake more than I did. I mean, the concept had me right from the get-go with jumping into different libraries around the world - what a dream! Unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations at all. In fact, it doesn't even live up to the first line of the dust jacket summary: "Gia Kearns would rather fight with boys than kiss them." Yeah, there is no sign of that at all since it relies pretty heavily on forbidden instalove with a dash of love triangle to mix things up. Seriously, the amount of times the words "sexy" and "hot" are used to describe the guys is stunning. It also manages to parallel Cassandra Clare's City of Bones right from the beginning and doesn't really begin to go it's own way until somewhere around the halfway point. As for the cast, I didn't like anyone all that much, aside from Bastien, Arik's romantic rival. Of all of the characters, Bastien seems to be the most developed and fleshed out, Gia and Arik are kind of boring, and Afton and Nick (Gia's best friends) are, for the most part, consistently annoying.
Overall, Thief of Lies by Brenda Drake, unfortunately, didn't live up to my expectations. I may have enjoyed this YA urban fantasy more if it was able to stand on under its own power rather than having to rely so heavily on City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. I totally would have preferred more library hopping adventure and less kissing, but then again maybe that's just me.
Final verdict:
I really wanted to like Thief of Lies by Brenda Drake more than I did. I mean, the concept had me right from the get-go with jumping into different libraries around the world - what a dream! Unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations at all. In fact, it doesn't even live up to the first line of the dust jacket summary: "Gia Kearns would rather fight with boys than kiss them." Yeah, there is no sign of that at all since it relies pretty heavily on forbidden instalove with a dash of love triangle to mix things up. Seriously, the amount of times the words "sexy" and "hot" are used to describe the guys is stunning. It also manages to parallel Cassandra Clare's City of Bones right from the beginning and doesn't really begin to go it's own way until somewhere around the halfway point. As for the cast, I didn't like anyone all that much, aside from Bastien, Arik's romantic rival. Of all of the characters, Bastien seems to be the most developed and fleshed out, Gia and Arik are kind of boring, and Afton and Nick (Gia's best friends) are, for the most part, consistently annoying.
Overall, Thief of Lies by Brenda Drake, unfortunately, didn't live up to my expectations. I may have enjoyed this YA urban fantasy more if it was able to stand on under its own power rather than having to rely so heavily on City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. I totally would have preferred more library hopping adventure and less kissing, but then again maybe that's just me.
Final verdict:
February 20, 2016
I've been super excited about this book ever since I heard about it months ago, so I jumped at the chance to read it! I actually chose THIEF OF LIES as the first book that I wanted to read for 2016, and it was an absolutely wonderful choice! I loved it so, so much, and I've been raving about it ever since! :D
When I first heard about THIEF OF LIES, I was immediately compelled! It reminded me of the movie, The Pagemaster, which I still remember fondly from my childhood. I've always loved the idea of travelling through books, and the library is one of my favourite places...add in a bit of romance, even more magic, an amazing main character, and it just gets better and better!
As soon as I started reading, I didn't want to put THIEF OF LIES down. I loved Gia for her awkwardness with boys, for her tomboy-ish nature, and for her major love of reading, books and libraries. She is most definitely a kindred spirit. :P I especially loved discovering more about the world of Sentinels and the gateway books! It was all so fascinating! I also have a serious, serious soft spot for Arik...the book description is definitely not lying about him. The boy is most assuredly a "leather clad hottie"⎯and I ship him and Gia so freaking much! haha
Along with a fantastic premise and a wonderful main character, THIEF OF LIES, is packed full of some amazing characters. I loved getting to know Gia's friends from home, and really enjoyed getting to know the other sentinels, too. The world-building was also fantastic. I loved how the different intricacies of the sentinels world were revealed, and the magical aspects were so amazing! And the battle orbs were so neat! :D I think if I had to pick some kind of "supernatural" being that I would like to be, a sentinel would be high on that list. ;)
Overall, I absolutely loved THIEF OF LIES! It was such a fantastic story, and I got completely wrapped up in Gia's world. I can't wait to read what happens next!! :D
When I first heard about THIEF OF LIES, I was immediately compelled! It reminded me of the movie, The Pagemaster, which I still remember fondly from my childhood. I've always loved the idea of travelling through books, and the library is one of my favourite places...add in a bit of romance, even more magic, an amazing main character, and it just gets better and better!
As soon as I started reading, I didn't want to put THIEF OF LIES down. I loved Gia for her awkwardness with boys, for her tomboy-ish nature, and for her major love of reading, books and libraries. She is most definitely a kindred spirit. :P I especially loved discovering more about the world of Sentinels and the gateway books! It was all so fascinating! I also have a serious, serious soft spot for Arik...the book description is definitely not lying about him. The boy is most assuredly a "leather clad hottie"⎯and I ship him and Gia so freaking much! haha
Along with a fantastic premise and a wonderful main character, THIEF OF LIES, is packed full of some amazing characters. I loved getting to know Gia's friends from home, and really enjoyed getting to know the other sentinels, too. The world-building was also fantastic. I loved how the different intricacies of the sentinels world were revealed, and the magical aspects were so amazing! And the battle orbs were so neat! :D I think if I had to pick some kind of "supernatural" being that I would like to be, a sentinel would be high on that list. ;)
Overall, I absolutely loved THIEF OF LIES! It was such a fantastic story, and I got completely wrapped up in Gia's world. I can't wait to read what happens next!! :D
December 4, 2015
ARC via NetGalley
This was a fun story. As a bookworm, the library jumper concept immediately grabbed me. I could easily picture myself as a super happy person discovering a world full of magic inside a library... Hmm... Wait a second... isn't that how I normally feel when I go to the library? Interesting. ;-) Except my magic isn't as real Gia's, this book's MC.
I thought this book had all the right elements to be a successful young adult fantasy. Lots of magics. Sword fighting. Villains. Prophecies and a chosen one.
The romance was strong. Arik was a great love interest, and I didn't mind the love triangle (come on, let's be honest, I adore love triangles). Bastien was an interesting character and a great addition to the cast.
The story moved fast, which meant I didn't get bored at all. I was surprised at how the author managed to keep the story moving and moving and still keep things interesting.
Overall, this was an entertaining read.
This was a fun story. As a bookworm, the library jumper concept immediately grabbed me. I could easily picture myself as a super happy person discovering a world full of magic inside a library... Hmm... Wait a second... isn't that how I normally feel when I go to the library? Interesting. ;-) Except my magic isn't as real Gia's, this book's MC.
I thought this book had all the right elements to be a successful young adult fantasy. Lots of magics. Sword fighting. Villains. Prophecies and a chosen one.
The romance was strong. Arik was a great love interest, and I didn't mind the love triangle (come on, let's be honest, I adore love triangles). Bastien was an interesting character and a great addition to the cast.
The story moved fast, which meant I didn't get bored at all. I was surprised at how the author managed to keep the story moving and moving and still keep things interesting.
Overall, this was an entertaining read.
February 20, 2019
This and other reviews can be found on The Psychotic Nerd
I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for a honest review
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
MY THOUGHTS
I've been waiting to read this book for almost two years, since the book was titled "Library Jumpers". That was all I needed to know in order to need this book! This book wasn't as much as I hoped for, mostly due to the romance, but the fantasy elements were amazing and I did enjoy this book!
After being sucked into a book and ending up in a library in Paris, Gia's life is changed forever. They discover Sentinels, magical knights that travel across libraries to protect the human race from various creatures. Now, Gia and her friends are in danger from these creatures and whether they like it or not, they're now in this new world. Gia may be involved more than she realized.
The main idea behind this book sounds absolutely fantastic! A fantasy that is based around libraries? A booknerd's dream! I loved the idea behind this book! This book also has a very complex magic system. I thought that all the magical and fantasy elements were very interesting. They were a bit hard for me to wrap my head around at first, but in the end, I was very impressed by the world Brenda Drake created.
A lot did definitely happen in this book, which may also factor why my head was spinning so much. Gia also founds out a whole lot of stuff in a short period of time, some about the world, some about her, some about other things. There is a lot of information in this book and I still feel like I don't know anything, that there are answers that I still need. I hope my questions will be answered in the other books in the series!
Gia is a lover of libraries and a bit of a tomboy. I liked Gia. She annoyed me at points, due to the romance (which I will get to), but she was a great MC most of the time. We're thrown into this world with Gia and both of us are still trying to understand it. She cares deeply for her friends and family, and on that thought, they too are really great characters. I can't say that I love her as an MC though. She's great, but I've read many books with similar MCs.
The romance is the main reason why I didn't enjoy this book as much as I wanted to. I don't have much luck with romance in books and it's very hard for me to like a romance in books because it's just so easy for an annoying trope to sneak in. This book was no different. First of all, once a guy was described as hot and with a snazzy accent, I knew that we've found the love interest. The romance just felt too much like insta-love. Arik is not a bad guy, but sometimes all I ever really felt the attraction was based on was the fact that he was really hot, because Gia thought about that a lot. I know there was more to it, but it happened so fast! Add in the fact that of course it was forbidden and of course there's some really hot French girl, with big boobs, hanging around Arik. I'm sorry, but I'm getting sick of these tropes in YA. Maybe eventually, as the series continues, I'll be less annoyed. Also, another guy was introduced and is it wrong that I actually want a love triangle? I kind of want to know more about the other guy.
IN CONCLUSION
Okay, despite my annoyance with the romance, this was a great book. It introduced a very new and unique fantasy world with a very complex magic system! I enjoyed reading this book and I'm very curious what will happen next as the series continues.
I received an ecopy of this book in exchange for a honest review
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
MY THOUGHTS
I've been waiting to read this book for almost two years, since the book was titled "Library Jumpers". That was all I needed to know in order to need this book! This book wasn't as much as I hoped for, mostly due to the romance, but the fantasy elements were amazing and I did enjoy this book!
After being sucked into a book and ending up in a library in Paris, Gia's life is changed forever. They discover Sentinels, magical knights that travel across libraries to protect the human race from various creatures. Now, Gia and her friends are in danger from these creatures and whether they like it or not, they're now in this new world. Gia may be involved more than she realized.
The main idea behind this book sounds absolutely fantastic! A fantasy that is based around libraries? A booknerd's dream! I loved the idea behind this book! This book also has a very complex magic system. I thought that all the magical and fantasy elements were very interesting. They were a bit hard for me to wrap my head around at first, but in the end, I was very impressed by the world Brenda Drake created.
A lot did definitely happen in this book, which may also factor why my head was spinning so much. Gia also founds out a whole lot of stuff in a short period of time, some about the world, some about her, some about other things. There is a lot of information in this book and I still feel like I don't know anything, that there are answers that I still need. I hope my questions will be answered in the other books in the series!
Gia is a lover of libraries and a bit of a tomboy. I liked Gia. She annoyed me at points, due to the romance (which I will get to), but she was a great MC most of the time. We're thrown into this world with Gia and both of us are still trying to understand it. She cares deeply for her friends and family, and on that thought, they too are really great characters. I can't say that I love her as an MC though. She's great, but I've read many books with similar MCs.
The romance is the main reason why I didn't enjoy this book as much as I wanted to. I don't have much luck with romance in books and it's very hard for me to like a romance in books because it's just so easy for an annoying trope to sneak in. This book was no different. First of all, once a guy was described as hot and with a snazzy accent, I knew that we've found the love interest. The romance just felt too much like insta-love. Arik is not a bad guy, but sometimes all I ever really felt the attraction was based on was the fact that he was really hot, because Gia thought about that a lot. I know there was more to it, but it happened so fast! Add in the fact that of course it was forbidden and of course there's some really hot French girl, with big boobs, hanging around Arik. I'm sorry, but I'm getting sick of these tropes in YA. Maybe eventually, as the series continues, I'll be less annoyed. Also, another guy was introduced and is it wrong that I actually want a love triangle? I kind of want to know more about the other guy.
IN CONCLUSION
Okay, despite my annoyance with the romance, this was a great book. It introduced a very new and unique fantasy world with a very complex magic system! I enjoyed reading this book and I'm very curious what will happen next as the series continues.
December 27, 2015
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
Libraries and magic? Count me in! The premise of this book sounded just so cool that I had to give it a try and the pretty cover definitely added to my excitement for this book. This book is exactly what the blurb promises and more. There are people who can jump through books to other libraries and the main character and her friends get caught up in that magical world. It was an exciting read and I enjoyed reading this book, although there were a few parts that were a bit cliché or predictable.
While it's a long book, the pace was well done, there were a few places where it felt a tad rushed though. There is enough going on and the story kept my attention. I really enjoyed being immersed in this world and learning more about it and the characters in it. I do feel that the focus is pretty much on the story and while the other aspects are well done too, it's the story and unique concept that makes this book shine.
Gia is the main character and I liked her, she was afraid and missed home, but also knew that this was her new life now. Which I think was realistic. I did wish we would get more of a feel for her emotions at times, in some scenes it was really well done and in others I really wanted to know what she was going through and thinking, like when later on I the book she loses something and it doesn't seem to affect her at all. She does change over the course of the book as she goes from normal school going teenager to learning more about herself and the world of the Mysticks. There is a bit surrounding her that was a bit cliché and I could've done without, but I do see why it is necessary for the story.
The side characters do make the book more interesting, but they do stay pretty flat. Luckily the story more than made up for it, but I wish we learned a bit more about the characters. There are some side characters Mysticks and I kept forgetting who was who as we didn't get enough of a feel for them. There is quite the large cast of characters which probably made that even harder.
There is a hint of romance and while it was built up nicely, it still felt a bit like insta-love and I just didn't quite feel it. They were nice together and I did see why they were attracted to each other, but I didn't really feel their spark or connection. Then there is a hint that it could turn into a love triangle and while she did make her decision, I do have a feeling that it might change later on. I did like the love interest, but I just didn't quite feel their connection. And there is some relationship drama which I could've done without.
The concept behind this book is pretty cool with the focus on libraries and magic. It is unique and the world building behind it did make sense and added a reason to why they used the libraries. There are some battle scene sin the libraries that are pretty cool, although it also felt like a shame to fight there, it did was original and added a certain feel to the battles. The mysticks world was interesting and I did like the world building that we got. I liked the sentinels and the whole globe magic system, but I also wondered about how some things worked exactly. There are wizards, sentinels and other creatures and at times it felt like they tried to put a bit too much into this. There are some things that remain unclear or stay a bit vague, but I am thinking that will be revealed in later books in this series.
To summarize: This was an exciting book and I really enjoyed it. I really enjoyed it and the whole library jumping and magic system was pretty cool. The pace is done well and kept my attention, although there are a few scenes that feel a bit rushed and a few predictable or cliché parts. The story and the unique concept really makes this book shine. I did like Gia the main character, although I would've liked to get more of a feel for her emotions and thoughts in certain scenes. The side characters add something to the book, but with the large cast of character and getting to know little about each of them I did have a hard time separating them at times. The world building is pretty cool and the library jumping and magic part was interesting. Although there are also a few things that remain unclear or could use a bit of elaboration. All in all it was a great book and I am curious to see how the story will continue.
Libraries and magic? Count me in! The premise of this book sounded just so cool that I had to give it a try and the pretty cover definitely added to my excitement for this book. This book is exactly what the blurb promises and more. There are people who can jump through books to other libraries and the main character and her friends get caught up in that magical world. It was an exciting read and I enjoyed reading this book, although there were a few parts that were a bit cliché or predictable.
While it's a long book, the pace was well done, there were a few places where it felt a tad rushed though. There is enough going on and the story kept my attention. I really enjoyed being immersed in this world and learning more about it and the characters in it. I do feel that the focus is pretty much on the story and while the other aspects are well done too, it's the story and unique concept that makes this book shine.
Gia is the main character and I liked her, she was afraid and missed home, but also knew that this was her new life now. Which I think was realistic. I did wish we would get more of a feel for her emotions at times, in some scenes it was really well done and in others I really wanted to know what she was going through and thinking, like when later on I the book she loses something and it doesn't seem to affect her at all. She does change over the course of the book as she goes from normal school going teenager to learning more about herself and the world of the Mysticks. There is a bit surrounding her that was a bit cliché and I could've done without, but I do see why it is necessary for the story.
The side characters do make the book more interesting, but they do stay pretty flat. Luckily the story more than made up for it, but I wish we learned a bit more about the characters. There are some side characters Mysticks and I kept forgetting who was who as we didn't get enough of a feel for them. There is quite the large cast of characters which probably made that even harder.
There is a hint of romance and while it was built up nicely, it still felt a bit like insta-love and I just didn't quite feel it. They were nice together and I did see why they were attracted to each other, but I didn't really feel their spark or connection. Then there is a hint that it could turn into a love triangle and while she did make her decision, I do have a feeling that it might change later on. I did like the love interest, but I just didn't quite feel their connection. And there is some relationship drama which I could've done without.
The concept behind this book is pretty cool with the focus on libraries and magic. It is unique and the world building behind it did make sense and added a reason to why they used the libraries. There are some battle scene sin the libraries that are pretty cool, although it also felt like a shame to fight there, it did was original and added a certain feel to the battles. The mysticks world was interesting and I did like the world building that we got. I liked the sentinels and the whole globe magic system, but I also wondered about how some things worked exactly. There are wizards, sentinels and other creatures and at times it felt like they tried to put a bit too much into this. There are some things that remain unclear or stay a bit vague, but I am thinking that will be revealed in later books in this series.
To summarize: This was an exciting book and I really enjoyed it. I really enjoyed it and the whole library jumping and magic system was pretty cool. The pace is done well and kept my attention, although there are a few scenes that feel a bit rushed and a few predictable or cliché parts. The story and the unique concept really makes this book shine. I did like Gia the main character, although I would've liked to get more of a feel for her emotions and thoughts in certain scenes. The side characters add something to the book, but with the large cast of character and getting to know little about each of them I did have a hard time separating them at times. The world building is pretty cool and the library jumping and magic part was interesting. Although there are also a few things that remain unclear or could use a bit of elaboration. All in all it was a great book and I am curious to see how the story will continue.
February 16, 2016
2.5 STARS
***I received the ARC eBook free as a review copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
This book had the makings to be amazing and ticked all the boxes before I picked it up; with the mention of a hot love interest, strong female character, magic and libraries with books it was a must read. Unfortunately these were just tropes that continuously popped up in a way that made me roll my eyes (I even had to laugh at myself writing that list).
It almost felt like I had read the book before, with so many aspects similar to other books (the beginning especially paralleled City of Bones in a way) that in all honesty I probably would have preferred to be reading. Comparisons were therefore unavoidable and didn’t bode well for Thief of Lies – amazing title that also cemented in my brain that the idea for this story was better in theory.
Similarly, the Gia in the synopsis that “would rather fight with boys than kiss them” was nowhere to be seen. Instead I found a girl whose thoughts didn’t match her actions, who was stubborn in the most stupid places just for the hell of it and compliant as a mouse in others, whose powers came easily just when she needed them because the plot demanded it, who didn’t think she was anything special until the guy/people around her continually said so and who chastised herself every few pages while complaining about everything else in her life which got old fast. In the end I couldn’t relate to Gia because I couldn’t understand her.
Arik wasn’t much better with his “we mustn’t be together or the world will end” attitude one minute and then “screw it, she’s hot” way of thinking the next, only to go back again… The boy frustrated me more than anything else. Which nicely sums up my feelings on the book in general and the fact is disappointing because I not only wanted to love Thief of Lies but thought I would – alas, no. Though I'm sure others will.
Posted on Enchanted by YA
Also on the blog: Character Tour - Arik
***I received the ARC eBook free as a review copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
This book had the makings to be amazing and ticked all the boxes before I picked it up; with the mention of a hot love interest, strong female character, magic and libraries with books it was a must read. Unfortunately these were just tropes that continuously popped up in a way that made me roll my eyes (I even had to laugh at myself writing that list).
It almost felt like I had read the book before, with so many aspects similar to other books (the beginning especially paralleled City of Bones in a way) that in all honesty I probably would have preferred to be reading. Comparisons were therefore unavoidable and didn’t bode well for Thief of Lies – amazing title that also cemented in my brain that the idea for this story was better in theory.
Similarly, the Gia in the synopsis that “would rather fight with boys than kiss them” was nowhere to be seen. Instead I found a girl whose thoughts didn’t match her actions, who was stubborn in the most stupid places just for the hell of it and compliant as a mouse in others, whose powers came easily just when she needed them because the plot demanded it, who didn’t think she was anything special until the guy/people around her continually said so and who chastised herself every few pages while complaining about everything else in her life which got old fast. In the end I couldn’t relate to Gia because I couldn’t understand her.
Arik wasn’t much better with his “we mustn’t be together or the world will end” attitude one minute and then “screw it, she’s hot” way of thinking the next, only to go back again… The boy frustrated me more than anything else. Which nicely sums up my feelings on the book in general and the fact is disappointing because I not only wanted to love Thief of Lies but thought I would – alas, no. Though I'm sure others will.
Posted on Enchanted by YA
Also on the blog: Character Tour - Arik
January 13, 2016
rom the fast paced story line, to the brilliantly written characters, Thief of Lies is sure to stick in around in everyone's mind for a long time. There were a lot of components that made this book so different from others in it's genre, such as the plot line, design of the world itself, and the characters. Every single aspect of this book mesmerized me, and kept me enticed throughout the whole novel.
A nice component to Thief of Lies was the story. This is the first time stepping into this world and understanding the general premise therefore a lot can happen. Plus there needs to be a lot of information for readers to get lost in the story. It did this, and so much more. I believe Brenda Drake's way of telling me as a reader about what was going on through a character was brilliant. The main female protagonist was new to the Mystic world and so she needed to be taught a lot of the do's and don'ts of being a Sential. I learned a lot about the world and characters, but never once did I feel like it was verbal throw up or confusing.
Overall Drake created a world full of wonders and awe with twists that are sure to shock.
Another thing Brenda Drake excelled at in this book were her characters. Each brought their own element to the story line and made me feel all kinds of emotions towards them all. It was also nice to easily connect with the main characters and see their general points of view. Overall not only did the main characters show tremendous strength and wit, but the secondary characters were just as strong and witty as well.
These are just parts of my review for Thief of Lies, want to see more? Check it out over on Beyond the Book Reviews
A nice component to Thief of Lies was the story. This is the first time stepping into this world and understanding the general premise therefore a lot can happen. Plus there needs to be a lot of information for readers to get lost in the story. It did this, and so much more. I believe Brenda Drake's way of telling me as a reader about what was going on through a character was brilliant. The main female protagonist was new to the Mystic world and so she needed to be taught a lot of the do's and don'ts of being a Sential. I learned a lot about the world and characters, but never once did I feel like it was verbal throw up or confusing.
Overall Drake created a world full of wonders and awe with twists that are sure to shock.
Another thing Brenda Drake excelled at in this book were her characters. Each brought their own element to the story line and made me feel all kinds of emotions towards them all. It was also nice to easily connect with the main characters and see their general points of view. Overall not only did the main characters show tremendous strength and wit, but the secondary characters were just as strong and witty as well.
These are just parts of my review for Thief of Lies, want to see more? Check it out over on Beyond the Book Reviews
January 25, 2016
I simply adored this book. The story was exciting, the characters were charming, and the writing was fantastic. Besides, it's about one of my favorite places -- libraries; specifically, magical portals that will take you to the most beautiful libraries in the world. Can this be an actual thing in real life, please??? I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good, well-told adventure (with some pretty swoony romance to boot!)
June 9, 2016
Gia spends her time with her two best friends, her nana, and her Pop. She focuses on school, her hobby is fencing, and she's more than awkward around boys. Until she sees Arik in the library, in all leather he stands out among the books, and when he disappears, leaving only a book behind open to a Paris library, she can't stop thinking about him. Upon finding paper with Italian scrawled across it Gia finds herself, and her two best human friends, in the middle of that Parisian library, with a giant hound causing destruction. While trying to save Gia and her friends Arik realizes she's more than just a human with a knack for Italian, she too is a Sentinal like he is. There's an evil wizard plotting to take over the mystikal and human world and it turns out Gia is just the thing everyone's been waiting for. She holds the key to the destruction of the mystikal world in one hand and in the other she holds the key to saving it. Mix in betrothals, magic, and a family she never knew about and Gia is overwhelmed with her role in a world she never knew about.
Library Jumpers, just take a minute and let the title of the series just grow in your imagination. I would be all over this if I could jump libraries in real life, even if it means learning to wield a sword. This first novel, Thief of Lies, will either grab you or will miss the mark for you, but it's a standout novel nonetheless. With amazing writing, details, and a unique plot I can only see good things in the future for this series. Gia, the main heroine, is a bit too awkward for her own good, she's judgemental and overly smart, but she's also the 16 year old child of two sentinels. She's actually part of a world she could never have dreamed of, the magical stuff your mother weaves into stories at night time. Sentinels are the magical knights that protect the human world from the mysikal world and Gia isn't just one of them, she the most important. There's also hot Sentinal, Arik, she man she both needs to avoid and wants to know more, Bastian the handsome wizard, some seriously badass Sentinals with unique gifts, and a family that makes you want to know more. I was completely enamored with the story line of human girl turned magical knight, I certainly didn't predict her being a knight, but I really enjoyed her training, her growing strength, and reading from her POV as she discovers the world she could never have imagined. Plus, her smarts are what bring this book to life, I couldn't picture anyone else from this book just knowing the right Italian words that could lead to destruction or savior for the mystikal and human world.
Hello world building! Brenda Drake probably does the best job at creating a new world slowly, but beautifully in any book I've read in a long time. The reader isn't just dumped into this magical world, it's given to you in bits and pieces and grows to include not only library jumping and demonic hounds, but faeries, sprytes, laniars, sentinals, wizards, and more. There are beautiful havens, libraries aplenty, and some wonderful secondary characters. The fantasy elements are just amazing and it really made me love reading fantasy novels again, I've been in a big slump.
There are some differences when you look at the synopsis versus the actual book. Gia isn't quite as badass as she's made out to be, she doesn't know how to handle boys, let alone fight them, but she definitely learns. There's also no fling, though I really wanted one! Can I just have Bastien to myself? It's actually a clean young adult crush turned pseudo love triangle. Unfortunately, the romantic side of this first novel really takes away from the overall story line, it felt like an addition to an already successful book. I'm not against romance for the characters, but it needed true development and I think could easily weave into future novels in the series. There was a lot introduced in this first novel, which is a given in a new fantasy series, but it's hard to take on all the new and cope with the ever-changing mind of 16 year-old Gia. There is also so much going on that some characters fall flat; I almost couldn't picture Gia at first, because she's underwhelming. However, I found myself loving all the characters, really enjoying the action, and completely enthralled by the library jumper's world.
I am definitely excited to see what comes next in the sequel, I can only hope for more action and meeting more unique characters. The story is unique, the magic is interesting, and there's beautiful libraries! Here's hoping the sort of love triangle plays out with more depth and feels like an actual part of the characters and their growth. This is a fast-paced book that I think readers of all ages could enjoy, the romance is clean, the action is intense, and if you're into fantasy this has everything you could hope for and more.
Library Jumpers, just take a minute and let the title of the series just grow in your imagination. I would be all over this if I could jump libraries in real life, even if it means learning to wield a sword. This first novel, Thief of Lies, will either grab you or will miss the mark for you, but it's a standout novel nonetheless. With amazing writing, details, and a unique plot I can only see good things in the future for this series. Gia, the main heroine, is a bit too awkward for her own good, she's judgemental and overly smart, but she's also the 16 year old child of two sentinels. She's actually part of a world she could never have dreamed of, the magical stuff your mother weaves into stories at night time. Sentinels are the magical knights that protect the human world from the mysikal world and Gia isn't just one of them, she the most important. There's also hot Sentinal, Arik, she man she both needs to avoid and wants to know more, Bastian the handsome wizard, some seriously badass Sentinals with unique gifts, and a family that makes you want to know more. I was completely enamored with the story line of human girl turned magical knight, I certainly didn't predict her being a knight, but I really enjoyed her training, her growing strength, and reading from her POV as she discovers the world she could never have imagined. Plus, her smarts are what bring this book to life, I couldn't picture anyone else from this book just knowing the right Italian words that could lead to destruction or savior for the mystikal and human world.
Hello world building! Brenda Drake probably does the best job at creating a new world slowly, but beautifully in any book I've read in a long time. The reader isn't just dumped into this magical world, it's given to you in bits and pieces and grows to include not only library jumping and demonic hounds, but faeries, sprytes, laniars, sentinals, wizards, and more. There are beautiful havens, libraries aplenty, and some wonderful secondary characters. The fantasy elements are just amazing and it really made me love reading fantasy novels again, I've been in a big slump.
There are some differences when you look at the synopsis versus the actual book. Gia isn't quite as badass as she's made out to be, she doesn't know how to handle boys, let alone fight them, but she definitely learns. There's also no fling, though I really wanted one! Can I just have Bastien to myself? It's actually a clean young adult crush turned pseudo love triangle. Unfortunately, the romantic side of this first novel really takes away from the overall story line, it felt like an addition to an already successful book. I'm not against romance for the characters, but it needed true development and I think could easily weave into future novels in the series. There was a lot introduced in this first novel, which is a given in a new fantasy series, but it's hard to take on all the new and cope with the ever-changing mind of 16 year-old Gia. There is also so much going on that some characters fall flat; I almost couldn't picture Gia at first, because she's underwhelming. However, I found myself loving all the characters, really enjoying the action, and completely enthralled by the library jumper's world.
I am definitely excited to see what comes next in the sequel, I can only hope for more action and meeting more unique characters. The story is unique, the magic is interesting, and there's beautiful libraries! Here's hoping the sort of love triangle plays out with more depth and feels like an actual part of the characters and their growth. This is a fast-paced book that I think readers of all ages could enjoy, the romance is clean, the action is intense, and if you're into fantasy this has everything you could hope for and more.
August 20, 2016
Library Jumpers, who in their right mind wouldn’t jump at the chance to read something with a series title like that?
Let me set the scene for you. Gia Kearns, gets the chance to visit a library that would make any self respecting book lover drool, the Boston Athenaeum. What could be better than that? How about a hottie walking around said library in leather? Yum … that is until he disappears. What do you do? Well, if you are Gia, you go look at the book he was studying before the vanishing act and accidentally get sucked in. By following Mr. Hottie through the portal, Gia not only jumps into a different library, but uncovers some secrets that might just tell her who she really is … if they don’t kill her first.
I was SO excited when I found out I had the opportunity to review an ARC of this book! I cannot believe someone finally wrote a book about ME! Ok maybe not me, exactly … or at all … but about the super me I am in my mind. :)
Brenda Drake is a relatively new author, but so far I have to admit that I am very impressed. Her writing is witty, fun, very well paced, and the story is very fluid. Thief of Lies is full of some exciting twists and turns, as well as some OMG *jaw drop* moments. It was fun from beginning to end. Honestly, I did not want the book to end. It was just that good!
Thief of Lies is the total package; the cover is breathtaking, the story-line is imaginative, the writing is captivating. The only thing I wanted after finishing this book was the next installment. All in all, this book earned it’s way to a 5 out of 5!
Order your copy now.
Happy Reading!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
**This review was initially published on www.bookcrushin.com on 1/5/2016**
Let me set the scene for you. Gia Kearns, gets the chance to visit a library that would make any self respecting book lover drool, the Boston Athenaeum. What could be better than that? How about a hottie walking around said library in leather? Yum … that is until he disappears. What do you do? Well, if you are Gia, you go look at the book he was studying before the vanishing act and accidentally get sucked in. By following Mr. Hottie through the portal, Gia not only jumps into a different library, but uncovers some secrets that might just tell her who she really is … if they don’t kill her first.
I was SO excited when I found out I had the opportunity to review an ARC of this book! I cannot believe someone finally wrote a book about ME! Ok maybe not me, exactly … or at all … but about the super me I am in my mind. :)
Brenda Drake is a relatively new author, but so far I have to admit that I am very impressed. Her writing is witty, fun, very well paced, and the story is very fluid. Thief of Lies is full of some exciting twists and turns, as well as some OMG *jaw drop* moments. It was fun from beginning to end. Honestly, I did not want the book to end. It was just that good!
Thief of Lies is the total package; the cover is breathtaking, the story-line is imaginative, the writing is captivating. The only thing I wanted after finishing this book was the next installment. All in all, this book earned it’s way to a 5 out of 5!
Order your copy now.
Happy Reading!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
**This review was initially published on www.bookcrushin.com on 1/5/2016**
January 18, 2016
The Thief of Lies by Brenda Drake is a magnificent read. Thank you Entangled Publishing for the copy of The Thief of Lies! First of all, I love the cover and the story concept. Another plus, the young woman on the cover actually matches the description of Gia that Brenda Drake describes in the book! Sometimes that is a rare thing. The matter of fact descriptions throughout the story are entertaining and informative and help with the world building. On page 146, the description of Veronique's dress made me laugh out loud. Gia has an enjoyable love interest, but she frustrates me when she jumps to conclusions about Arik instead of thinking of how he feels, but I suppose that is human nature. Gia has found out how complicated her life, past and present, is and how much more complicated it is going to become as she deals with mysterious and vivid dreams and the truth unfolds. There's a lot going on in this book, but it's all cohesive and flowing. Every time I think I have grasped all of the details, something else slams into me, such as Gia's betrothed. This 378 page book packs a big punch!
I would be happy if the Library Jumpers series contained eight books, one book per year of Gia's Sentinel duty or even six books total and have a book for each Chiavi (key) that needs to be found. Oh the amazing and wonderful possibilities!
I would be happy if the Library Jumpers series contained eight books, one book per year of Gia's Sentinel duty or even six books total and have a book for each Chiavi (key) that needs to be found. Oh the amazing and wonderful possibilities!
January 1, 2016
*ARC Kindly provided by Entangled Teen in exchange for an honest review. Thanks!*
THIS WAS SO MUCH FUN!
When you put libraries and magic together, it is definitely a recipe for excitement. Well, for book nerds anyway. So here we have people who can travel or jump through libraries. There is a whole world that most people have no idea exists. That is of course until someone suddenly finds out it exists because she was all too curious about the hot guy at the library....
Gia is this spunky girl with a great sense of humor. Not boring at all in my opinion, I actually really liked her! There is only one thing that bothers me about her, but more on that later. She has two best friends, Afton and Nick, who are also pretty amazing. Afton is more girly girl, where Gia is more sporty girl.
Bahahahaha! Omg. Gia, I love you, girl.
Anyway, there are these Sentinals (aka, hot library guy she was too nosy about) who basically protect humans from the things that go bump in the night or whatever... I have opinions about this, more later. Stay with me. They wield magic in the for of these really cool sphere things that they grow in their hands and use, all of which are activated by Italian. Its a pretty cool magic system, actually. Of course in this whole world there are wizards and witches and fairies and things of that nature. But the Sentinals have a a purpose and were created for a special reason. They each have a very specific magic thing going. I like it. I am not going to go into details on every Sentinal, but I will say I really like the group we happen to be with.
Arik is the hot library guy, and the main Sentinal we encounter. And, you know, love interest. I like him well enough. Though I also like Bastian. You know, other love interest. YUP. LOVE TRIANGLE. More on that later as well.
This book is action packed, and full of secrets, lies, and revelations. Its about 400 pages, but I not really any dull moments. Definitely a few info dumps, but they were needed. being a fantasy, of course there are some level of politics involved, but I don't feel it was bogged down with it.
So now to all the things I I had put off until later...
My reasons this is not a five star read.
1. I hate to say this, I hate comparing books, I really really do.... but the Sentinals seem familiar... kind of like.... shadowhunters. But less angelic. I would even go so far as to say the bad guy is very.... Valentine.
2. The situation with Arik was a bit insta-lovey. Yeah.
3. Love triangle. On the bright side, I will say I have no clue who I am leaning towards. I haven't picked a side, so they both have a chance to grow on me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. Its a good, easy to read fantasy. The world building was good, the magic elements are fun, and I like so many of the characters!!!! Thats always great. Definitely recommending this one.
“Gia, you can never be lonely in the company of books.”
THIS WAS SO MUCH FUN!
When you put libraries and magic together, it is definitely a recipe for excitement. Well, for book nerds anyway. So here we have people who can travel or jump through libraries. There is a whole world that most people have no idea exists. That is of course until someone suddenly finds out it exists because she was all too curious about the hot guy at the library....
Gia is this spunky girl with a great sense of humor. Not boring at all in my opinion, I actually really liked her! There is only one thing that bothers me about her, but more on that later. She has two best friends, Afton and Nick, who are also pretty amazing. Afton is more girly girl, where Gia is more sporty girl.
“Did you know there's a book here bound in human skin?”
"No. Really?" The elevator dropped and my stomach slumped.
Afton removed her sweater and then draped it over her arm. "Really. I saw it."
"No thanks."
"You can't tell it's actual skin," she said. "They treat it or dye it or something, silly."
"I bet they die it."
Bahahahaha! Omg. Gia, I love you, girl.
Anyway, there are these Sentinals (aka, hot library guy she was too nosy about) who basically protect humans from the things that go bump in the night or whatever... I have opinions about this, more later. Stay with me. They wield magic in the for of these really cool sphere things that they grow in their hands and use, all of which are activated by Italian. Its a pretty cool magic system, actually. Of course in this whole world there are wizards and witches and fairies and things of that nature. But the Sentinals have a a purpose and were created for a special reason. They each have a very specific magic thing going. I like it. I am not going to go into details on every Sentinal, but I will say I really like the group we happen to be with.
Arik is the hot library guy, and the main Sentinal we encounter. And, you know, love interest. I like him well enough. Though I also like Bastian. You know, other love interest. YUP. LOVE TRIANGLE. More on that later as well.
This book is action packed, and full of secrets, lies, and revelations. Its about 400 pages, but I not really any dull moments. Definitely a few info dumps, but they were needed. being a fantasy, of course there are some level of politics involved, but I don't feel it was bogged down with it.
So now to all the things I I had put off until later...
My reasons this is not a five star read.
1. I hate to say this, I hate comparing books, I really really do.... but the Sentinals seem familiar... kind of like.... shadowhunters. But less angelic. I would even go so far as to say the bad guy is very.... Valentine.
2. The situation with Arik was a bit insta-lovey. Yeah.
3. Love triangle. On the bright side, I will say I have no clue who I am leaning towards. I haven't picked a side, so they both have a chance to grow on me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. Its a good, easy to read fantasy. The world building was good, the magic elements are fun, and I like so many of the characters!!!! Thats always great. Definitely recommending this one.
January 1, 2016
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*I was provided a eARC by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
The first time I read the blurb for Thief of Lies I knew I had to read this book. First it is a fantasy book and I’ve been needing a new fantasy series to read. Second, it’s about libraries and being able to jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries. What?? Of course I had to request this book on NetGalley when I saw it and luckily I was approved. Let me tell you something, this book did not disappoints. I loved the world that the author created. Yes it was a little bit confusing in the beginning but as soon as you’re into it you can’t stop reading it. I also loved the characters. Gia is a great main character. We’re talking about a 16 year-old girl that loves to be surrounded by books. Not only that but she’s not that normal type of MC’s that are always making stupid decisions every time someone tells them that they can’t do something. She actually listens to the people. I also loves how much she cared about her friends and her family. I also loved Arik and how protective he was of Gia and his friends. One thing I loved in this book is that the romance is not the main point of the plot. Yes you can see that something is going to happen between Gia and Arik but it’s not insta-love, it’s something that’s happening through time. I could try to explain to you more about this book and the world created by Brenda Drake but not only is a complex world that it would take a long time to explain in this post but I also think that everyone should read this book. And can we talk about the fact that at a certain point the library of Mafra was referenced? I loved that. Being someone from a small country like Portugal I’m used to never read anything about my country in the books I read but it was a pleasant surprise when I found out that the author talked about it in the book.
Overall, this was a great book and the perfect way to start a new fantasy series. I look forward to keep reading about this story and these characters. If you love fantasy and are looking for a new series you should give this one a try.
*I was provided a eARC by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
The first time I read the blurb for Thief of Lies I knew I had to read this book. First it is a fantasy book and I’ve been needing a new fantasy series to read. Second, it’s about libraries and being able to jumping into some of the world's most beautiful libraries. What?? Of course I had to request this book on NetGalley when I saw it and luckily I was approved. Let me tell you something, this book did not disappoints. I loved the world that the author created. Yes it was a little bit confusing in the beginning but as soon as you’re into it you can’t stop reading it. I also loved the characters. Gia is a great main character. We’re talking about a 16 year-old girl that loves to be surrounded by books. Not only that but she’s not that normal type of MC’s that are always making stupid decisions every time someone tells them that they can’t do something. She actually listens to the people. I also loves how much she cared about her friends and her family. I also loved Arik and how protective he was of Gia and his friends. One thing I loved in this book is that the romance is not the main point of the plot. Yes you can see that something is going to happen between Gia and Arik but it’s not insta-love, it’s something that’s happening through time. I could try to explain to you more about this book and the world created by Brenda Drake but not only is a complex world that it would take a long time to explain in this post but I also think that everyone should read this book. And can we talk about the fact that at a certain point the library of Mafra was referenced? I loved that. Being someone from a small country like Portugal I’m used to never read anything about my country in the books I read but it was a pleasant surprise when I found out that the author talked about it in the book.
Overall, this was a great book and the perfect way to start a new fantasy series. I look forward to keep reading about this story and these characters. If you love fantasy and are looking for a new series you should give this one a try.
November 10, 2017
This book moved very quickly and that made it very confusing. Also, the romance just didn't cut it for me. It didn't feel real to me and so I didn't really care about it. The idea of this is very interesting, but I was so confused most of the time that I didn't enjoy it. It seemed new characters were being introduced all the time and it was a lot to take in.
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