Review: The Lost Prince

The Lost Prince (The Iron Fey: Call of the Forgotten, #1) by Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Format: eGalley
Source: NetGalley  
Buy It From Amazon |  Goodreads
★★★★★

Don’t look at Them. Never let Them know you can see Them.

That is Ethan Chase’s unbreakable rule. Until the fey he avoids at all costs—including his reputation—begin to disappear, and Ethan is attacked. Now he must change the rules to protect his family. To save a girl he never thought he’d dare to fall for.

Ethan thought he had protected himself from his older sister’s world—the land of Faery. His previous time in the Iron Realm left him with nothing but fear and disgust for the world Meghan Chase has made her home, a land of myth and talking cats, of magic and seductive enemies. But when destiny comes for Ethan, there is no escape from a danger long, long forgotten.

Julie is an author that, no matter the topic, I will always love her books. Yes, you may even call me a fangirl. I can always count on her rich, beautiful settings and unforgettable characters. The Lost Prince is no exception.

The Lost Prince is a book that, despite being a spinoff of The Iron Fey series, can be read without reading through the original books. I do, however, strongly recommend reading The Iron Fey series first. Not only are they fantastic books, but they will definitely help fill in some plot gaps for unfamiliar readers.

For those who have read The Iron Fey series, do you remember Meghan’s tiny, little brother, Ethan from the first book? Yeah, he’s all grown up now and shirtless on the cover! Seeing him at a young age and seeing him grown are two opposite sides of the spectrum! I loved the contrast between the two. The fey have tortured him his entire life, so I can completely understand his broodiness and complex personality. You can tell Julie really took the time and effort to develop his character!

The Lost Prince features some fantastic action scenes and quirky characters! I thoroughly enjoyed the relationship between Ethan and Kerrian. It was vaguely reminiscent of Ash and Puck. So if you’ve liked the banter between those two in the past, you will definitely find some entertainment here. I’ll be honest and say I really wanted a glimpse at the present day life of Ash and Meghan. Luckily The Lost Prince delivered. While the story doesn’t revolve around them, there are still some beautiful scenes between the two. I didn’t know it was possible to miss two fictional characters so much… Special thanks to Julie for not leaving them in the dust.

The Lost Prince is nothing short of a showstopper! It has proven itself to be just as engaging and exciting as the The Iron Fey series. I have no doubts that it will continue to meet or even surpass my expectations of the original books. *Impatiently waits for next book*

News: Deleted Scene from The Iron Queen

If you're an Iron Fey fan like myself, then you'll take any and every opportunity to spend more time with the Meghan and Ash. Julie Kagawa was kind enough to post the following deleted scene on her blog. Note: This is from The Iron Queen, so if you have not read The Iron Daughter, you may not want to proceed. In my opinion, this is a truly beautiful moment between Meghan and Ash. Enjoy:

Extended Balcony Scene

I stepped close and slipped my arms around his waist, hearing his quiet intake of breath as I pulled him against me. “That was a long time ago,” I murmured, pressing my cheek to his back, listening to his thudding heart. “You’ve changed since then. That Ash wouldn’t protect a silly human girl with his life, or become her knight, or walk into exile with her. Every step of the way, you’ve always been there, right beside me. I’m not letting you go now.”

“I’m a coward.” Ash’s voice was subdued. “If I cared for you as much as I should, I would end my life and the curse along with it. My existence puts you in danger. If I were no longer here—”

“Don’t you dare, Ashallyn’darkmyr Tallyn.” I held him tighter, even as he flinched at the sound of his True Name. “Don’t you dare throw your life away for an unknown superstition. If you die—” My voice broke, and I swallowed thickly. “I love you,” I whispered, fisting my hands against his stomach. “You can’t leave. You swore you wouldn’t.”

Ash’s hands came to rest over mine, twining our fingers together. “Even if the world stands against you,” he murmured, bowing his head. “I promise.”

For awhile, we just stood like that, content not to move, as the wind howled around us and tugged at our hair and clothes. Ash, true to form, was perfectly still. I closed my eyes and lost myself in his quiet breathing, in the rise and fall of his chest, in the beat of his heart. It was hard to believe, sometimes, that this—this beautiful, solemn, immortal prince in my arms—was mine.

“Meghan.”

His voice rumbled in my ear, low and hesitant. “Yes?” I whispered, and he shifted around to face me, taking my hands in his. For a few moments, he gazed at our interlocked fingers, running his thumb gently over my skin, as if gathering his thoughts.

“Be patient with me,” he said at last, furrowing his brow. His gaze finally shifted up to mine, bright and soulful. “It’s…difficult sometimes, to watch you fight, to see you throw yourself into danger again and again.” One hand came up, long fingers gently touching my cheek. “I can’t bear the thought of anything happening to you,” he murmured. “I wish I could protect you from everything.”

“I know,” I said, smiling up at him. “But, it’s my turn now. You’ve done so much already, Ash; now it’s my turn to protect you. You and Puck and the Nevernever, and…and everyone.” I sighed and looked past him, at the clouds sweeping over the iron realm. “If I could just figure out a way to do that.”

“I’m sure you’ll think of something.” Ash’s voice was resigned, and he drew me closer, wrapping his arms around my waist. Sighing, he lowered his head, soft strands of his hair brushing my forehead. “Just…try not to give me a heart attack when you do.”

“I can’t promise anything,” I whispered back. “But, I’ll try.”

His expression twitched in a faint smile, and he gave a tiny shake of his head. “I suppose that’s all I can ask for—” But before he could finish, I slipped my arms around his neck, leaned up, and took his lips with mine.

He made a faint noise of surprise, before his eyes fluttered shut and he leaned into me, pulling us closer. I savored the feel of his lips against mine, breathing in his scent, that sharp mix of frost and peppermint. He breathed my name, just one simple word, and it turned my stomach inside out and set my whole body on fire. It made me desperate to get closer, made me bolder then I’d ever been. I pressed forward, pushing him against the railing, standing on tiptoe to trail kisses down his neck. He groaned, tilting his head back, hands sliding up to tangle in my hair. I couldn’t get close enough, it seemed. Never close enough.

Ash ducked his head, meeting my lips again, his kisses suddenly crushing, devouring. One arm snaked around my waist, the other cupped the back of my head, pressing us together, like two puzzle pieces that finally clicked. I held him as tightly as I could, feeling the hard, lithe muscles of his back, shifting through his armor. Wishing it was suddenly gone, that I could feel his cool skin under my fingers. His cloak fluttered around us, like the edges of tattered wings, cocooning us both, and I didn’t want to be anywhere else in the world.

Ash drew back suddenly, breathing deep, trying to control himself. I felt his heart beneath his armor, hammering in his chest. He dropped his gaze, shoulders heaving, though his arms didn’t loosen their grip, and resisted my attempt to pull back.

“Ash?”

The look he gave me was almost frightening in its intensity. “Command me,” he whispered, bringing his face close to mine. His eyes seared into me, challenging and pleading all at once. “Tell me to stop, and I will.”

I gazed at him, well aware that my own heart was doing its best to crash through my ribs. Ash watched me, silver eyes blazing with desire, and love. I reached up and touched his face, and he closed his eyes, putting his hand over mine, pressing it to his cheek, before his gaze flickered to me again.

Waiting. He wouldn’t go any further unless I told him to. He was letting me decide, like he’d promised. I could walk away from him now, and he wouldn’t follow. Or I could tell him to go, and he would. We could stop this, right now, if I wasn’t completely ready.

I swallowed hard, pulled his lips down to mine, and whispered:

“Stay.”

Anyone else want to know what happens next!!!? Julie, you are such a tease! Ahh... so frustrating, but I still love it. I hope you enjoyed it, I know I did! It's ashame this scene didn't make it into the book.

HERE is a link to Julie Kagawa's original post.

Review: The Iron Knight

The Iron Knight (Iron Fey, #4) by Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Release Date: October 25, 2011
Format: Kindle eBook
Pages: 386
Source: NetGalley
Pre-order It!? Paperback
★★★★★

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing.
Unless he can earn a soul.

To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.

With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan’s side.

To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale.

And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Wow… just… wow. A perfect end to an amazing journey and an EPIC love story; one against all odds. Julie Kagawa you have outdone yourself once again. Each book in this series is better than the one proceeding it (Note: I was pretty blown away with the first). The Iron Fey series forever holds a place on my favorites shelf, this one being the best of them all.

The Iron Knight begins with Ash continuing his journey to find a way to keep his vow to Meghan. His drive and commitment to this task was inspiring. In this book you get a deep look into Ash’s past. In the other books, Ash was so cold and closed off that it was hard to learn anything about him! I loved reading from Ash’s point-of-view, and I’m so happy to had the opportunity to learn more about one of my favorite characters. Speaking of characters, I love them all. Julie has written some of the most memorable characters I have ever read.

My return to the Nevernever was as pleasing as the last. Kagawa’s settings are so descriptive and imaginative, without being overbearing. I particularly loved the Gauntlet and Testing Grounds. I’ve never read anything like them. They weren’t just action packed, they were incredibly critical to the plot! I love how Kagawa used them as a channel to learn more about Ash’s past.

Kagawa really surprised me with the twist about 1/4 of the way in. It challenged Ash… and turned his world upside down. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how/if he would overcome it. Though it was painful, I loved getting a deeper look into the mind and emotions of the Winter Prince.

The Iron Knight was such a quick read for me… Before I knew it, it was all over. It' so sad to see this series end. Boy, did it have a spectacular ending. And yes, if you must ask, there were tears. This is definitely one of my favorites. If you have not read the rest of the series, get on them now so you can get to this one right away! You won’t be disappointed one bit.

“Coming in 2012, there will be a SECOND IRON FEY TRILOGY. This is for all the Iron Fey fans out there, whom I'm forever grateful for. This series, set several years after the events of the first, will star an older Ethan Chase, Meghan's brother. Yep, Ethan is getting his own adventure, so be sure to be on the lookout for that.” – Julie Kagawa

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa will be released October 25th 2011.

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Winner: Iron Fey Prize Pack!!

Thank you to all who participated in this giveaway! The winner, chosen by random.org, is:

Miranda Hannah

Keep an eye out for The Iron King in the mail! I’d also like to give a special thanks to Harlequin Teen for sponsoring this awesome giveaway. They have some really great people working for them!

100 Follower Giveaway: Iron Fey Prize Pack!

Hi Inklings,

Thank you so much for following! As appreciation to you for helping me reaching 100 followers, the wonderful folks over at Harlequin Teen have agreed to offer a giveaway for the following:

• Your choice of one book from the Iron Fey Series by Julie Kagawa (Iron King, Iron Daughter, or Iron Queen)
  
• An Iron Queen bookmark

I absolutely love the Iron Fey series and I believe it is one of the best out there. Good luck to all of you!

Giveaway Rules:

• Please enter by June 25th, 2011.
  
• Must be 13 years of age or older.
  
• Open to Everyone (This includes international followers)
  
• Must be a follower of my blog
  
• Check out my Giveaway/Privacy Policy.
  
• Please enter using the form below. Comments are appreciated, but are not entries.

Enter Here

News: Iron Fey Announcement!

The Iron Fey Series by Julie Kagawa will have a new addition! Summer's Crossing, a novella focused on Puck, will bridge the gap between The Iron Queen and The Iron Knight (due out in November of this year).The cover reveal will be in a few weeks!! I'm quite excited about this announcement. I may not be "Team Puck," but I think we can all agree that he is a great character and is often overlooked!

The original post by Julie Kagawa can be found here.

Anyone else pysched?!

Review: The Iron Queen

The Iron Queen (Iron Fey, #3) by Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Format: Kindle eBook
Pages: 368
Source: Amazon.com
Buy It: Paperback | Kindle
★★★★★

My name is Meghan Chase.
I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.

What I Loved

• How attached I became to all of the characters.
• The action- MUCH more than the rest of the series.
• The romance- Meghan's relationship with Ash is definitely solidified in this book.
• The unpredictable, open, but satisfying ending. Have kleenex handy!
• Lastly, RAZOR the gremlin. What a great character. Very well written.

What I Didn't Like

• The crazy feeling of loss and sadness knowing I have to wait until the fall for book #4 in the series..
• The standard this sets for YA fantasy books... Will I ever find a series that compares??

Review

This series will forever hold a special place in my heart and bookshelf (Uh, I mean...kindle space), particularly this book. For me, this was the best in the series so far. It had everything I wanted more of from the other books, specifically action and romance. I wanted to see Meghan and Ash's relationship fleshed out. Here that definitely happens.

Ahh the romance... Who doesn't love romance? The difference between the romance in this book and the romance in the other two books is exactly this: Here the romance makes sense. In the other books it seemed too "Twilighty" to me. You don't just instantly become infatuated with a person! In "The Iron Queen" Meghan and Ash have a background and have been through many hard times. This makes their love far more believable and understandable. The thing that I like about Julie's writing in this book is that the romance was not overdone nor underdone. In my opinion, it was very balanced. If you've been waiting for more romance between Meghan and Ash, this is the book!

Here we see Meghan become stronger and more passionate about her mission. We see her grow as a character. She is no longer the self conscious girl from the first book. She has faith in her abilities and more importantly knows what needs to be done. I love this... It was strangely inspirational looking back at her from the first book. At first I thought the ending was terrible, but I didn't know then that there was another book on the way. I was like "WHAT!? HOW CAN YOU END THE SERIES LIKE THIS!?" I cannot explain my relief when I discovered that the next book is set for release this fall.

Overall, every second of this book was a joy to read. I would have given it more stars if possible! Warning though: Be prepared for some tears. I was sick with the stomach flu and exhausted but I just could not put this down. I ended up passing out with it the first night. Took me two days to finish.. Do not pass this series up!

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Review: The Iron Daughter

The Iron Daughter (Iron Fey, #2) by Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Format: Kindle eBook
Pages: 304
Source: Amazon.com
Buy It: Paperback | Kindle
★★★★☆

Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.
Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

What I Loved

• Almost everything!
• Meghan and Ash's forbidden romance.
• The open, but very strong ending.
• When I realized how much Grimalkin actually runs things.
• The believable, strong, and very consistent characters.
• The great plot twists that keep you on your toes.

What I Didn't Like

• The ups and downs of Meghan's relationship with Ash can be a bit tiring at times (similar to the Twilight series to me). She doesn't really know much about him, yet she is infatuated? Don't get me wrong I absolutely love Ash's character, but it would have been great to see the relationship fleshed out a bit more before they were so head over heels for eachother.

I usually HATE all faery-themed books. The only reason I went out on a limb and tried this series is because someone else, who also hates faery-themed books, said not to pass this series by.  It has been really hard for me to find a series that constantly improves.. Usually you have authors who write the first book and its great, but then the sequel is a horrible letdown. The Iron Fey series is perfect in this regard.

There is a great story to be found here. I loved all of the characters and I found myself getting really attached to them... not wanting the book to end. The world that Julie Kagawa has created is nothing short of magnificent. Can I live there? Please? It was so fleshed out and wonderful. Kagawa most certainly outdid herself here. This book has left me wanting, no...NEEDING, more of Meghan Chase's story! I can't wait to see where the rest of this series goes!