The Lightening Thief - Rick Riordan

Rating: 3 stars
Shelf: Now Reading

It's difficult to not compare this book to the first in the Harry Potter series. While I didn't like it as much as I like Harry Potter - I would recommend Rick Riordan's series to any Harry Potter fan.

The usage of mythical gods and creatures in modern times is unique and interesting. The story reads well and is easy to understand for an age group slightly younger than Harry Potter. Edith Hamilton would be proud of this young(ish) readers introduction to the word of mythology.

I didn't find the twists as shocking as many other reviewers did. The book wasn't exactly page-turning as it was an easy, quick, and enjoyable read. I had it all figured out from the first few pages, but this didn't leave me disappointed with the story.

Definitely a good read for any young or adult reader. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.

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A Game of Thrones - George R. R. Martin

Rating: 4 stars
Shelf: Now Reading

I got sucked in - quickly. The fellow gave me this book and has been begging, literally, for me to read it. I'd pick it up and put it down. 'I can tell it's going to be one of those books with too many characters!' or, 'I'm just not that into fantasy!' You know, then he probably made a sad face, so I actually dropped the tough lady literature snob act and started reading the book. And wow. (And how.)

Multitude of characters, indeed, each with their own chapters that give a unique point of view to the rapidly escalating story. When you play the game of thrones, that evil witch of a queen tells us, you win or you die. Or you win and you still die. CRAZY! And it's not all knights and valour either, it's - awesome. That's all. George R.R. Martin writes an awesome story that grips the reader from beginning to end. I can't wait to start the second book.

Purchase Now from Amazon: A Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire, Book 1)