We’ve changed things up with the IWSG Book Club, featuring books from members.
The books for February were books from our most senior members on the IWSG sign-up list.
About the Book
Clara’s ready to become a master swordswoman. When she goes to meet with longtime mentor Dantor, Clara is told she’s destined to become the Champion, a fabled hero who arises in time of need. Confused by this claim, Clara isn’t sure she’s ready to be a Champion.
Whether Clara is ready or not, the evil Kalidess has wormed her way into Septily’s court.
Clara is aided by another mentor, Stelia, whose knowledge of their enemy is both a bane and a blessing. As evil threatens their land, Clara and Stelia must find the strength to overcome the darkness.
Check it out on Goodreads.
My Review
I wanted to like this book. The blurb sounded interesting. But the cover didn’t tell me anything about genre, or age group, just that there’s a sword involved.
The book starts with action – which turns out to be just a dream. And then she looks in the mirror and we get a description of her. Ah, no. Two things we know we should never start a book with, especially not the first in series.
I won’t continue reading. DNF.
About the Book
Driven by Olympic dreams! To the outside world, Lori Anders has it all. The only child of affluent parents, she is a gifted swimmer with Olympic dreams. Armed with a winning attitude and genuine spirit, Lori appears destined for success. Yet despite her certainty in the pool, something inhibits Lori from achieving her full potential. Her focus on swimming has left little time for relationships. Lacking in confidence, Lori’s light has few opportunities to shine. When an altercation with the school bullies brings her to the attention of the star quarterback, Lori finds herself in a unique position. Jason’s affections renew her hope and force the shy swimmer out of her comfort zone. But, will it be enough to achieve her lifelong dream? Described as “encouragement personified,” Wolfe’s five-book Southern-based series portrays love and friendship overcoming all obstacles.
Check it out on Goodreads.
My Review
This is the book club selection for February 2022.
Looking at the blurb and reviews, this is a contemporary YA. The computer generated cover doesn’t mesh well with that genre and the series name is much bigger than the book title (which I cannot see in thumbnail view). Looking at the blurb and reviews, this isn’t an angsty YA where learning to trust and building friendships is the core: just getting what you worked hard for. I prefer characters to suffer to get what they want. So I’m passing on this one.
What do you think of these books? Have you read them? Have you read anything by these authors? What are your thoughts on book clubs?
*FYI, my reviews are my honest opinion and if something bothers me, I tell it straight. How else will anything change? My opinions are based on being a voracious reader and book buyer, not an attack on the author.*
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Hey, I made a rookie mistake with that dream sequence, even though I should have known better. I still stand by the books as a while, sorry you couldn’t get past it.
Thank you for honesty. If you could post this on Amazon, even as a one star review, that would be of help with their algorithms.
Thanks again for reading a bit of my work.
Oops. While – whole.