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Singing Fire #1
Singing Fire
*This book is currently unavailable for purchase.
Constant chills, panic attacks, and now paranoia � there’s a reason seventeen-year-old Charlie keeps to herself.
Life is looking up when she gets a job at a whimsical tea shop and gains a few new friends, but little does Charlie know there are secrets lurking beyond its door.
It only takes one night for her perspective on her small town to change forever. As if witches, vampires, and demons weren’t enough, she soon realizes she’s being hunted for a power she didn’t know she possessed.
SINGING FIRE takes Charlie through an unexpected journey of self-discovery, betrayal, and forbidden love all while the clock is ticking for her to defeat the dark souls pursuing her � before anyone else dear to her has to die.
Constant chills, panic attacks, and now paranoia � there’s a reason seventeen-year-old Charlie keeps to herself.
Life is looking up when she gets a job at a whimsical tea shop and gains a few new friends, but little does Charlie know there are secrets lurking beyond its door.
It only takes one night for her perspective on her small town to change forever. As if witches, vampires, and demons weren’t enough, she soon realizes she’s being hunted for a power she didn’t know she possessed.
SINGING FIRE takes Charlie through an unexpected journey of self-discovery, betrayal, and forbidden love all while the clock is ticking for her to defeat the dark souls pursuing her � before anyone else dear to her has to die.
296 pages, Paperback
First published November 27, 2016
7 people are currently reading
673 people want to read
About the author
T.L. Martin
8books361followersMother of 3. Lover of nature, daydreaming, and tea. Taking each day one at a time, just trying to remember to put pants on before I leave the house. Oh, and I write books :)
Currently Available Releases (18+):
BLUE SKIES (coming of age high school romance)
LIAR, LIAR (forbidden high school romance)
DANCING IN THE DARK (dark romance)
TOUCHED BY DEATH (paranormal romance)
Coming soon:
IF YOU NEED ME (office romance)
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Currently Available Releases (18+):
BLUE SKIES (coming of age high school romance)
LIAR, LIAR (forbidden high school romance)
DANCING IN THE DARK (dark romance)
TOUCHED BY DEATH (paranormal romance)
Coming soon:
IF YOU NEED ME (office romance)
❤︎ Connect with me ❤︎
Sign up for my newsletter:
Instagram:
Facebook Author Page:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 9, 2017
(I received a digital copy of this book for free. Thanks to author T.L. Martin.)
This was a YA paranormal story featuring witches and vampires.
Charlie was an okay charcter, although she maybe tried to protect other people too much, putting herself in unnecessary danger. I also found her to be a little naive about her ability to fight supernatural creatures.
The storyline in this was about Charlie discovering that witches and vampires existed, and finding out her role in regards to them, and a special power that she didn't realise she had. We also got a bit of romance, but the main storyline was about Charlie's special power, which was probably lucky as I'm still not sure I really liked the love interest.
The ending to this wasn't quite what I expected, and didn't really wrap anything up.
6 out of 10
This was a YA paranormal story featuring witches and vampires.
Charlie was an okay charcter, although she maybe tried to protect other people too much, putting herself in unnecessary danger. I also found her to be a little naive about her ability to fight supernatural creatures.
The storyline in this was about Charlie discovering that witches and vampires existed, and finding out her role in regards to them, and a special power that she didn't realise she had. We also got a bit of romance, but the main storyline was about Charlie's special power, which was probably lucky as I'm still not sure I really liked the love interest.
The ending to this wasn't quite what I expected, and didn't really wrap anything up.
6 out of 10
March 12, 2017
I don't hand out many five star reviews. Especially for a first person viewpoint, which I hate and despise. Usually a good, solid read will get a four star review from me. Not this time. This time I couldn't WAIT to proudly and gleefully hand over a five star review. The only thing I didn't like about this book was there wasn't more to it.
Debut authors can be a mixed bag. Especially in YA which I don't read too often. I really only picked this book up because it was the only interesting looking book I found on a new review group I joined on ŷ. Am I ever glad I did.
This was the third book I read last night while working a slow overnight shift. Yes, the third (it was a really slow shift). I was drop dead tired when I got off, and I still went to the coffee shop to finish reading it instead of going home and crawling into bed to finish it in the morning. It was just that good.
Where do I begin? Usually when I intend to write a review I make notes as I read. There are no notes for this book. I was too into the book to make notes about it. Fortunately I am not a reviewer that just rehashes the story. I tell you what I thought about it.
Fascinating, believable characters. Plausible interactions. Outstanding character progression. Plot twists I never saw coming. Magic and supernatural used in a believable way. Nail-biting at times. Conflict. War. Romance. Evil. Good. Betrayal. Friendship. All that juicy delicious stuff that makes up an amazing novel is in this one. It all flows wonderfully seamlessly from beginning to end. I was in that book, reaching for the next word, from the first paragraph to the last.
I want more. I was sorely disappointed when I went running for the Amazon Bookstore at the first opportunity only to find out this was a debut novel. How am I supposed to wait ALL THAT TIME for the next book?
If you are into urban/modern fantasy I cannot recommend this enough. Young adult or old adult - this book is without question a must-read.
Debut authors can be a mixed bag. Especially in YA which I don't read too often. I really only picked this book up because it was the only interesting looking book I found on a new review group I joined on ŷ. Am I ever glad I did.
This was the third book I read last night while working a slow overnight shift. Yes, the third (it was a really slow shift). I was drop dead tired when I got off, and I still went to the coffee shop to finish reading it instead of going home and crawling into bed to finish it in the morning. It was just that good.
Where do I begin? Usually when I intend to write a review I make notes as I read. There are no notes for this book. I was too into the book to make notes about it. Fortunately I am not a reviewer that just rehashes the story. I tell you what I thought about it.
Fascinating, believable characters. Plausible interactions. Outstanding character progression. Plot twists I never saw coming. Magic and supernatural used in a believable way. Nail-biting at times. Conflict. War. Romance. Evil. Good. Betrayal. Friendship. All that juicy delicious stuff that makes up an amazing novel is in this one. It all flows wonderfully seamlessly from beginning to end. I was in that book, reaching for the next word, from the first paragraph to the last.
I want more. I was sorely disappointed when I went running for the Amazon Bookstore at the first opportunity only to find out this was a debut novel. How am I supposed to wait ALL THAT TIME for the next book?
If you are into urban/modern fantasy I cannot recommend this enough. Young adult or old adult - this book is without question a must-read.
February 7, 2017
I can't even.... I don't even know where to start or what to say. The character development in here is some of the best I've ever seen. Charlie is SO real. I also relate to her well because of her anxiety and I think the use of it in this book does it justice. It's real, gritty and sometimes it's hard to deal with.
I also love the plot, I love paranormal romance and this was seriously the best book for me. It had everything I love and even things I didn't know I loved. It's seriously great. I do not want to spoil this book as I think it's best to go in knowing nothing. It's so enjoyable. It blew my mind with how good it was, I was not expecting it to be as wonderful as it was.
If you've not read this, change that. Get this book and get ready for an amazing read with top notch characters, world building, and a realness that lots of books are missing these days.
I'm just nervous to see if the squeal can live up to my hopes after reading this one.
Thank you to the author for giving me a copy of this book for review. I can't thank you enough for letting me read your amazing work.
I also love the plot, I love paranormal romance and this was seriously the best book for me. It had everything I love and even things I didn't know I loved. It's seriously great. I do not want to spoil this book as I think it's best to go in knowing nothing. It's so enjoyable. It blew my mind with how good it was, I was not expecting it to be as wonderful as it was.
If you've not read this, change that. Get this book and get ready for an amazing read with top notch characters, world building, and a realness that lots of books are missing these days.
I'm just nervous to see if the squeal can live up to my hopes after reading this one.
Thank you to the author for giving me a copy of this book for review. I can't thank you enough for letting me read your amazing work.
September 11, 2018
The book started well: fascinating world, great characters but the more I kept reading, the more i felt disappointed especially the last 25% of the book.
April 8, 2017
Amazing book
I received an ARC of Singing Fire from the author. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
I don't even know where to begin with this book. I found is amazing and the ending just blew me away. This book starts off with a young girl named Charlie and her power that she possesses. Charlie meets a charming and handsome vampire Desmond and the book just gets better from there. Charlie has to learn how to control and work her new powers and how to use them. I love the writing and the style of the book, I didn't want to put the book down and I can't wait for the next book. The ending just exceeded my expectations and the entire book did. Thank you T.L Martin for this amazing experience.
I received an ARC of Singing Fire from the author. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
I don't even know where to begin with this book. I found is amazing and the ending just blew me away. This book starts off with a young girl named Charlie and her power that she possesses. Charlie meets a charming and handsome vampire Desmond and the book just gets better from there. Charlie has to learn how to control and work her new powers and how to use them. I love the writing and the style of the book, I didn't want to put the book down and I can't wait for the next book. The ending just exceeded my expectations and the entire book did. Thank you T.L Martin for this amazing experience.
March 24, 2017
Source: Received it free from the author for review (Does not effect my review)
Genre: Paranormal Young Adult
I really enjoyed this book. The writing was beautiful to me, not the best I've seen, but it was good. I was somewhat able to relate to Charlie in the story, so it was a plus for me. I'm normally shy and like being alone. I do like paranormal books, so this was a great read for me. The slow burning romance was something I really liked. I know a lot of people said that they did not like Desmond, but I did. I can sort of see why they wouldn't like him but I could not feel the way they did. The romance reminds me of Twilight in a way. The romance seems to resemble Edward and Bella's love. This may make some of you cringe, but I honestly believe that you should give it a shot. There were multiple plot twists that kept me intrigued and some I did not see coming.
I will be continuing the series when the second book comes out.
Overall: 4.5/5
Genre: Paranormal Young Adult
I really enjoyed this book. The writing was beautiful to me, not the best I've seen, but it was good. I was somewhat able to relate to Charlie in the story, so it was a plus for me. I'm normally shy and like being alone. I do like paranormal books, so this was a great read for me. The slow burning romance was something I really liked. I know a lot of people said that they did not like Desmond, but I did. I can sort of see why they wouldn't like him but I could not feel the way they did. The romance reminds me of Twilight in a way. The romance seems to resemble Edward and Bella's love. This may make some of you cringe, but I honestly believe that you should give it a shot. There were multiple plot twists that kept me intrigued and some I did not see coming.
I will be continuing the series when the second book comes out.
Overall: 4.5/5
April 3, 2017
I was a bit hesitant to read this as I don't usually read about witches, though I found myself enjoying the story. There were certain times where I found myself getting twilight vibes though there is nothing that is the same in this novel other than there is vampires but they don't sparkle haha.
I really enjoyed the writing as it was super easy to get into and I rarely found myself wishing the pace would speed up because majority of the time it was awesome. The world building was also really well done. It made me feel as though I was actually there, I couldn't imagine it in my head so early. Something that I really enjoyed was that the main character Charlie struggled with panic attacks and she wasn't very good with social situations which I think was executed well. It was awesome to see Charlie's character grow and change into a more confident woman. Though there were times were I got annoyed with her character as she made a few rash decisions and was so fixated on being the hero that it got her into trouble.
Also on a random note.. At the start of the novel it mentioned how Charlie had 3 birthmarks behind her ear but then I don't remember it mentioning anything else about it through out the novel. Perhaps that will be explained in the next novel? Like why she is the opal.
One thing that I look for in a novel is an unexpected ending and T.L. Martin certainly delivered. The twist will definitely take you by surprise. I will definitely be looking out for the next instalment :)
If you love paranormal mixed with a bit of romance then this one is for you :)
Side Note: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed the writing as it was super easy to get into and I rarely found myself wishing the pace would speed up because majority of the time it was awesome. The world building was also really well done. It made me feel as though I was actually there, I couldn't imagine it in my head so early. Something that I really enjoyed was that the main character Charlie struggled with panic attacks and she wasn't very good with social situations which I think was executed well. It was awesome to see Charlie's character grow and change into a more confident woman. Though there were times were I got annoyed with her character as she made a few rash decisions and was so fixated on being the hero that it got her into trouble.
Also on a random note.. At the start of the novel it mentioned how Charlie had 3 birthmarks behind her ear but then I don't remember it mentioning anything else about it through out the novel. Perhaps that will be explained in the next novel? Like why she is the opal.
One thing that I look for in a novel is an unexpected ending and T.L. Martin certainly delivered. The twist will definitely take you by surprise. I will definitely be looking out for the next instalment :)
If you love paranormal mixed with a bit of romance then this one is for you :)
Side Note: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
May 16, 2017
( I received this book through a book group & directly from the author in exchange for my honest review and opinion. )
I quite enjoyed this story. A story based on a young nieve witch who doesn't know what she is.
After suffering panic attacks most of her life, having no friends and her parents died, Charlie has lived quite a sheltered life. She has her routine of walking, running, swimming & spending time with her elderly neighbor.
Charlie musters up the courage to find a job and start conversing as such with people and this is where Charlie's story begins.
This is an awesome beginning to what can be a superb series. This isn't an ordinary take on Vampires, witches, guardians, demons and all things paranormal. I like how the author has tried to set it apart from others in this genre.
The characters I felt were built very well, extremely likable very realistic, I do love it when characters from a book feel almost like real people, people maybe you can relate to, people you end up rooting for.
Charle for me was a beautiful person. A person that not only was nieve ( Which is a great thing. ) but a pure soul someone who will always put others first and cares for those around her.
I very much enjoyed sharing her story and can not wait for what is to come in Raining Fire.
Desmond was a super character. Every YA book needs a super hunky, totally hot Book Boyfriend and I feel Desmond met that standard head on. Your smoldering brooding vampire with a conscience what more could we want!
The story itself developed nicely, you had a bit of action along with a tension building between Charlie and desmond with their relationship ( Would love to see something more develop there in the next book. )
What an ending! OMG, the ending made me feel all sorts of emotions! I did not see that coming and I hope there is some way for charlie to get back what she has lost!
I can honestly say very enjoyable book & story. Well worth a read.
I quite enjoyed this story. A story based on a young nieve witch who doesn't know what she is.
After suffering panic attacks most of her life, having no friends and her parents died, Charlie has lived quite a sheltered life. She has her routine of walking, running, swimming & spending time with her elderly neighbor.
Charlie musters up the courage to find a job and start conversing as such with people and this is where Charlie's story begins.
This is an awesome beginning to what can be a superb series. This isn't an ordinary take on Vampires, witches, guardians, demons and all things paranormal. I like how the author has tried to set it apart from others in this genre.
The characters I felt were built very well, extremely likable very realistic, I do love it when characters from a book feel almost like real people, people maybe you can relate to, people you end up rooting for.
Charle for me was a beautiful person. A person that not only was nieve ( Which is a great thing. ) but a pure soul someone who will always put others first and cares for those around her.
I very much enjoyed sharing her story and can not wait for what is to come in Raining Fire.
Desmond was a super character. Every YA book needs a super hunky, totally hot Book Boyfriend and I feel Desmond met that standard head on. Your smoldering brooding vampire with a conscience what more could we want!
The story itself developed nicely, you had a bit of action along with a tension building between Charlie and desmond with their relationship ( Would love to see something more develop there in the next book. )
What an ending! OMG, the ending made me feel all sorts of emotions! I did not see that coming and I hope there is some way for charlie to get back what she has lost!
I can honestly say very enjoyable book & story. Well worth a read.
March 5, 2017
This book. Without going into spoilers all I can say is that the ending....destroyed me !! I loved the blend of witches, vampires and demons in this book and I especially loved our main character, Charlie. She was so determined and fierce and while she could be foolish at times it was for the people she loved that motivated her to act so recklessly. I enjoyed the interactions Charlie had with our other characters and while I wasn't as emotionally invested in a majority of them I found myself slowly falling in love with them despite their flaws. While this book didn't have as much action then I would have liked it did lay the foundations of a larger more intriguing plot that has me urgent to read the second book. Overall the characters are relatable and troubled, making them so easy to root for, and the ending left me wanting to uncover all the secrets this story has to offer.
March 4, 2017
Full review found here:
- I was given a copy of Singing Fire in exchange for an honest review from the author, T.L. Martin -
I was immediately pulled into the world that was created and could barely put it down! The imagery and character development was so well done. I loved the twists and turns in this, and the final third of the book had me at the edge of my seat! I highly suggest this if you like supernatural, urban fantasy type books. LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!!
- I was given a copy of Singing Fire in exchange for an honest review from the author, T.L. Martin -
I was immediately pulled into the world that was created and could barely put it down! The imagery and character development was so well done. I loved the twists and turns in this, and the final third of the book had me at the edge of my seat! I highly suggest this if you like supernatural, urban fantasy type books. LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!!
November 30, 2016
This is the story of reincarnated rock who brings out the deepest part of those around it and shows that sometimes villains are not always what they seem and stereotypes cannot always be trusted.
This debut novel is filled with all the twists and turns of any seasoned author. The characters are unique, and the world, while staying true to our universe, is plunged magnificently into magic (along with the main lead). Following Charlie on her adventure is a delight as she breaks out of her hermit cocoon and finally starts to live, gaining friends and love along the way. The romance sprinkled into this novel is tasteful and beautiful despite its clear ‘subplot� feel. The male lead is fantastically written and seems to embody mystery and gentleness all while being a ruthless vampire capable of murder. Being the hopeless romantic that I am, I would have liked more scenes with the amazing male lead, but even without a gushing romance, I still fell for him after the first few chapters.
I have high hopes for the next book as this novel does end with a huge cliffhanger that leaves me anticipating the happily ever after that is sure to come. I can’t wait for more information about the pasts of these characters as well as more information about the true villain lurking in the shadows.
5/5 for the male lead alone. A very enjoyable and unpredictable read!
This debut novel is filled with all the twists and turns of any seasoned author. The characters are unique, and the world, while staying true to our universe, is plunged magnificently into magic (along with the main lead). Following Charlie on her adventure is a delight as she breaks out of her hermit cocoon and finally starts to live, gaining friends and love along the way. The romance sprinkled into this novel is tasteful and beautiful despite its clear ‘subplot� feel. The male lead is fantastically written and seems to embody mystery and gentleness all while being a ruthless vampire capable of murder. Being the hopeless romantic that I am, I would have liked more scenes with the amazing male lead, but even without a gushing romance, I still fell for him after the first few chapters.
I have high hopes for the next book as this novel does end with a huge cliffhanger that leaves me anticipating the happily ever after that is sure to come. I can’t wait for more information about the pasts of these characters as well as more information about the true villain lurking in the shadows.
5/5 for the male lead alone. A very enjoyable and unpredictable read!
January 6, 2017
I'm a sucker for the romance, and this book delivered!
I've been fortunate enough to work alongside the author as a beta reader, and from the first time I picked it up, I couldn't put it down.
I love the main character and her personality, even though Charlie suffers panic attacks, she's strong, and when faced with the unimaginable she grows into the heroine she is; with the help of the 'forbidden love' of course.
Fantastic characters, unique plot, and a writing voice that's easy to read.
I've been fortunate enough to work alongside the author as a beta reader, and from the first time I picked it up, I couldn't put it down.
I love the main character and her personality, even though Charlie suffers panic attacks, she's strong, and when faced with the unimaginable she grows into the heroine she is; with the help of the 'forbidden love' of course.
Fantastic characters, unique plot, and a writing voice that's easy to read.
March 19, 2017
This is the first book in the series and it follows Charlie, who is discovering her magical abilities. I received this book in exchange for a honest review.
I LOVED� this book! Charlotte is a sweet and caring introvert that bakes delicious sweets for her elderly neighbor. Charlotte has issues with socializing with others� due to her severe anxiety issues. Charlotte takes a job at a local tea shop and discovers just how powerful she truly is.
It's an action packed story with a little Romance in it. Desmond and Charlotte's� story needed more of a woo but other than that they were perfect.
I would love to see how the story ends in this paranormal action story.
Book Blurb
Constant chills, panic attacks, and now paranoia � there’s a reason seventeen-year-old Charlie keeps to herself.
Life is looking up when she gets a job at a whimsical tea shop and gains a few new friends, but little does Charlie know there are secrets lurking beyond its door.
It only takes one night for her perspective on her small town to change forever. As if witches, vampires, and demons weren’t enough, she soon realizes she’s being hunted for a power she didn’t know she possessed.
Singing Fire takes Charlie through an unexpected journey of self-discovery, betrayal, and forbidden love all while the clock is ticking for her to defeat the dark souls pursuing her � before anyone else dear to her has to die.
This novel is the first of a two part series, and its sequel, Raining Fire, is due for release in 2017. *BONUS: The end of Singing Fire includes a sneak peek of Raining Fire.
I LOVED� this book! Charlotte is a sweet and caring introvert that bakes delicious sweets for her elderly neighbor. Charlotte has issues with socializing with others� due to her severe anxiety issues. Charlotte takes a job at a local tea shop and discovers just how powerful she truly is.
It's an action packed story with a little Romance in it. Desmond and Charlotte's� story needed more of a woo but other than that they were perfect.
I would love to see how the story ends in this paranormal action story.
Book Blurb
Constant chills, panic attacks, and now paranoia � there’s a reason seventeen-year-old Charlie keeps to herself.
Life is looking up when she gets a job at a whimsical tea shop and gains a few new friends, but little does Charlie know there are secrets lurking beyond its door.
It only takes one night for her perspective on her small town to change forever. As if witches, vampires, and demons weren’t enough, she soon realizes she’s being hunted for a power she didn’t know she possessed.
Singing Fire takes Charlie through an unexpected journey of self-discovery, betrayal, and forbidden love all while the clock is ticking for her to defeat the dark souls pursuing her � before anyone else dear to her has to die.
This novel is the first of a two part series, and its sequel, Raining Fire, is due for release in 2017. *BONUS: The end of Singing Fire includes a sneak peek of Raining Fire.
April 10, 2017
I'm going to be completely honest here. Before I picked up this book I was in a slum. The past 3 books i've read, 2 ARCs and 1 book I bought online, I felt like i was just trying to pull myself through them to get them over with. I had absolutely no motivation to read and my reviews were nothing special and kind of short with no actual feeling. T.L.sent me a signed paperback copy of this book so I could review it. This books blurb got me excited because I haven't read this genre of book since Twilight, my first big book I picked up when I was 12. I think I needed a change in genres because contemporary romance was just not doing it for me lately.
It wasn't until I read the first chapter in this book that I thought things may be changing. I told my mom about my predicament of no longer having motivation and that was when she blessed me by saying, "Look Kayla, every book is worth reading". That was when the fire sparked back into me.
I felt like this book was extremely easy to read. I've been quite busy lately and for the first 3/4 of the book I read a few chapters every night but never felt the need to instantly finish the book. That's when everything changed, I read the lastchapters in one sitting. This book was absolutely captivating and action packed. The characters where realistic and enjoyable. I have no complaints and I am happy to give this book a 5 star rating.
It wasn't until I read the first chapter in this book that I thought things may be changing. I told my mom about my predicament of no longer having motivation and that was when she blessed me by saying, "Look Kayla, every book is worth reading". That was when the fire sparked back into me.
I felt like this book was extremely easy to read. I've been quite busy lately and for the first 3/4 of the book I read a few chapters every night but never felt the need to instantly finish the book. That's when everything changed, I read the lastchapters in one sitting. This book was absolutely captivating and action packed. The characters where realistic and enjoyable. I have no complaints and I am happy to give this book a 5 star rating.
March 18, 2017
Note: I received a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
It wasn't really bad to start off. The book started great--great enough for me to continue reading it. I liked the world building and the the plot was not bad, though Twilight vibe was so glaring.
So we got Charlie, the main character. Well, she reminded me of Bella (of Twilight) in a way in her character; very shy, quiet, soft, dainty, sensitive, insecure, reclusive, extremely private, so on and so forth. And just like her, she's just too protective to her friends and family .
She fell in love with, well, a vampire, Desmond. If you want to know about Desmond, just think of Edward (of Twilight). He's so much like him less the sparkles. Then, we also have witches and demons, just for fun. Well, I don't know, okay? I just kind of gave up because those kind of setting just don't work for me anymore. I've tried to find a way to like them but I just can't. All of them just didn't work for me.
As I said, the plot and the world building weren't bad. However, everything felt disjointed to me. I wasn't convinced about a lot of things that happened in terms of actions and reactions. The action scenes were clunky af. ALSO, I found myself getting a little confused as it seemed that things were said with out flat out saying them. Things were hinted at or said in a round about manner that the reader would have to see between the lines to understand what was meant. Everything seemed so forced--the conversation, the actions, everything. Because of this style of writing I found myself often having to go back to re-read the paragraph I was having trouble with, though some, I think, were partly my fault. I often read a little too fast (I skimmed!) and have to force myself to slow down when reading a book that intrigues me.
All in all, it was okay.
It wasn't really bad to start off. The book started great--great enough for me to continue reading it. I liked the world building and the the plot was not bad, though Twilight vibe was so glaring.
So we got Charlie, the main character. Well, she reminded me of Bella (of Twilight) in a way in her character; very shy, quiet, soft, dainty, sensitive, insecure, reclusive, extremely private, so on and so forth. And just like her, she's just too protective to her friends and family .
She fell in love with, well, a vampire, Desmond. If you want to know about Desmond, just think of Edward (of Twilight). He's so much like him less the sparkles. Then, we also have witches and demons, just for fun. Well, I don't know, okay? I just kind of gave up because those kind of setting just don't work for me anymore. I've tried to find a way to like them but I just can't. All of them just didn't work for me.
As I said, the plot and the world building weren't bad. However, everything felt disjointed to me. I wasn't convinced about a lot of things that happened in terms of actions and reactions. The action scenes were clunky af. ALSO, I found myself getting a little confused as it seemed that things were said with out flat out saying them. Things were hinted at or said in a round about manner that the reader would have to see between the lines to understand what was meant. Everything seemed so forced--the conversation, the actions, everything. Because of this style of writing I found myself often having to go back to re-read the paragraph I was having trouble with, though some, I think, were partly my fault. I often read a little too fast (I skimmed!) and have to force myself to slow down when reading a book that intrigues me.
All in all, it was okay.
March 6, 2017
I was sent this by the author in exchange for a review!
Singing Fire is an urban fantasy that follows Charlie who discovers a whole new world she never knew existed. I really enjoyed this book, it was so much fun to read!
I did enjoy the first half more than the second half, but the ending made up for that because it blew my mind.
I would recommend this book to fans of urban fantasy with a touch of romance.
Video review:
Singing Fire is an urban fantasy that follows Charlie who discovers a whole new world she never knew existed. I really enjoyed this book, it was so much fun to read!
I did enjoy the first half more than the second half, but the ending made up for that because it blew my mind.
I would recommend this book to fans of urban fantasy with a touch of romance.
Video review:
March 26, 2017
Full Review at:
I'm so excited about this series. I'm downright giddy. There are witches, and vampires, and demons, and this new Opal kind of magic. These are all creatures we've read about in other stories, but this time they're brought to us with a few new spins. The supporting characters all have their own voice and purpose. The world is very well built around them. It's easy to envision and lose yourself within their lives. The main character, Charlotte, thinks she's just a normal girl who has panic attacks and a few other inconvenient 'quirks'. Little does she know, her world is about to become so much bigger. She was a fantastic and believable character. She's easy to relate to. I'm really enjoying her love interest as well. Even though you know Singing Fire is entirely fictional, it feels realistic while you read, because it gathers you inside its world and sweeps you right into the lives of the characters. I'm so excited for more books in this series!
Singing Fire by T.L. Martin was kindly provided to me by the author for review. The opinions are my own.
I'm so excited about this series. I'm downright giddy. There are witches, and vampires, and demons, and this new Opal kind of magic. These are all creatures we've read about in other stories, but this time they're brought to us with a few new spins. The supporting characters all have their own voice and purpose. The world is very well built around them. It's easy to envision and lose yourself within their lives. The main character, Charlotte, thinks she's just a normal girl who has panic attacks and a few other inconvenient 'quirks'. Little does she know, her world is about to become so much bigger. She was a fantastic and believable character. She's easy to relate to. I'm really enjoying her love interest as well. Even though you know Singing Fire is entirely fictional, it feels realistic while you read, because it gathers you inside its world and sweeps you right into the lives of the characters. I'm so excited for more books in this series!
Singing Fire by T.L. Martin was kindly provided to me by the author for review. The opinions are my own.
March 1, 2017
I was given this book to read for free in exchange for an unbiased review. I have to say that I really enjoyed the book. The newest fad of witches and vampire stories doesn't seem to be slowing down and this story really did not disappoint me. There was just enough romance to satisfy and left me wanting more! There was action and excitement and I have to say that I was surprised with the twists and turns the book took along the way. I have read a number of highly rated book lately that did not surprise me at all ( and they were supposed to) and this was a very pleasant surprise. Im really looking forward to the next book in the series Raining Fire. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it as a light and fun read. Perfect for a guilty pleasure!!!
March 2, 2017
A trifle wordy for a YA , but never the less a jewel. With an interesting take on the powers of witches and actual believable fleshed out villains, the author is on her way up. looking forward to more books from her.
June 5, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! Ms. Martin sent me an email asking for me to give it a read and the initial reason I said yes was because the cover was gorgeous. It caught my eye, as well as the summary. I love fantasy kind of books and I hadn’t read one for a little while, so I figured that it was time to.
Now this book just had so much amazing stuff going on. First of all, it was fantasy but not so much so that it wasn’t based in reality. It was kind of like the Shadowhunters idea where they were hiding in plain site. Then you have this girl who just gets sucked into the world. And then you have this vampire who she falls in love with (of course).
I mean come on! Who doesn’t love a good fantasy story, with romance, and a vampire!
I also loved the fact that the ‘base of operation� was a tea shop! I mean my blood is literally tea, so I had to give it a read just because of that. I just loved imagining this beautiful tea shop that was so small and magical and had all these little secrets. In my mind it was so magical and beautiful.
The book was also not terribly long but so much happened within the short story! I read it in a few hours, outside in the sun (which was amazing) and I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know what was going to happen next and it just kept going and it kept you guessing all the way until the last sentence. I mean that ending had me dying. Come on Ms. Martin!!!! You just had to throw that curve ball! I loved it ‘cus I didn’t see half of the ending coming and it has me NEEDING the next book (which I am so excited for).
The cover of this book is also gorgeous as well. The turquoise with the fire in the middle just caught my eye as the colors were visually pleasing. I mean they say don’t judge a book by it’s cover, but you all should know by now that it’s all part of the package. I generally don’t have it negatively impact a book, but it can definitely make a book even better!
Now this book just had so much amazing stuff going on. First of all, it was fantasy but not so much so that it wasn’t based in reality. It was kind of like the Shadowhunters idea where they were hiding in plain site. Then you have this girl who just gets sucked into the world. And then you have this vampire who she falls in love with (of course).
I mean come on! Who doesn’t love a good fantasy story, with romance, and a vampire!
I also loved the fact that the ‘base of operation� was a tea shop! I mean my blood is literally tea, so I had to give it a read just because of that. I just loved imagining this beautiful tea shop that was so small and magical and had all these little secrets. In my mind it was so magical and beautiful.
The book was also not terribly long but so much happened within the short story! I read it in a few hours, outside in the sun (which was amazing) and I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know what was going to happen next and it just kept going and it kept you guessing all the way until the last sentence. I mean that ending had me dying. Come on Ms. Martin!!!! You just had to throw that curve ball! I loved it ‘cus I didn’t see half of the ending coming and it has me NEEDING the next book (which I am so excited for).
The cover of this book is also gorgeous as well. The turquoise with the fire in the middle just caught my eye as the colors were visually pleasing. I mean they say don’t judge a book by it’s cover, but you all should know by now that it’s all part of the package. I generally don’t have it negatively impact a book, but it can definitely make a book even better!
August 28, 2018
The begining of the book was wonderful. Excellent writing, intriguing mysteries, a fascinating story with witches, mysterious tea shop, and an ancient charm that threatens the peace of the world.
Half the way through, about fifty percent into the book, something went down. The slow building was replaced by fast events which for me was too fast. The romance, which was intense and implicit at start, was quickly developed without any real justification, and the heroine - who had just discovered who she was and what her powers were - had already found her purpose and used it without any difficulty.
The ending itself was good again with an interesting twist that left an opening for the future.
five solid stars to the first part. three stars to the second . in Total - four stats for me.
הספר התחיל נפלא. כתיבה משובחת, מסתורין מסקרן, סיפור קולח שבמרכזו מכשפות, חנות תה אחת מסתורית, וקסם עתיק שמאיים על שלום העולם.
עד מחצית הספ, כחמישים אחוז, נהניתי מאוד, ואז הרגשתי שמשהו התקלקל שם. הבניה האיטית התחלפה בהשתלשלות אירועים שמבחינתי היתה מהירה מדי. הרומנטיקה שהיתה אינטנסיבית ומרומזת, קיבלה מימוש מהיר מדי ללא שום צידוק ממשי, והגיבורה - שרק עתה גילתה מי היא ומה כוחותיה - כבר מצאה את ייעודה והשתמשה בו ללא כל קושי.
הסוף עצמו חזר להיות טוב עם טוויסט מעניין שהשאיר פתח לבאות.
5 כוכבים מוצקים לחלק הראשון. 3 כוכבים לחלק השני. סך הכל 4 בטוטאל.
Half the way through, about fifty percent into the book, something went down. The slow building was replaced by fast events which for me was too fast. The romance, which was intense and implicit at start, was quickly developed without any real justification, and the heroine - who had just discovered who she was and what her powers were - had already found her purpose and used it without any difficulty.
The ending itself was good again with an interesting twist that left an opening for the future.
five solid stars to the first part. three stars to the second . in Total - four stats for me.
הספר התחיל נפלא. כתיבה משובחת, מסתורין מסקרן, סיפור קולח שבמרכזו מכשפות, חנות תה אחת מסתורית, וקסם עתיק שמאיים על שלום העולם.
עד מחצית הספ, כחמישים אחוז, נהניתי מאוד, ואז הרגשתי שמשהו התקלקל שם. הבניה האיטית התחלפה בהשתלשלות אירועים שמבחינתי היתה מהירה מדי. הרומנטיקה שהיתה אינטנסיבית ומרומזת, קיבלה מימוש מהיר מדי ללא שום צידוק ממשי, והגיבורה - שרק עתה גילתה מי היא ומה כוחותיה - כבר מצאה את ייעודה והשתמשה בו ללא כל קושי.
הסוף עצמו חזר להיות טוב עם טוויסט מעניין שהשאיר פתח לבאות.
5 כוכבים מוצקים לחלק הראשון. 3 כוכבים לחלק השני. סך הכל 4 בטוטאל.
April 27, 2017
I received a copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you T.L. Martin for the opportunity to read your book. This was a good read. The story was good. I thought it was boring at times, while other times it was interesting. Also, the characters were okay. I did not really like Desmond. He did not seem that appealing to me. Charlie was a better character than Desmond, but I did not love her. The ending of the story was really confusing. I thought the story had potential. I hope to see what T.L. Martin writes next. Overall, an okay read.
Thank you T.L. Martin for the opportunity to read your book. This was a good read. The story was good. I thought it was boring at times, while other times it was interesting. Also, the characters were okay. I did not really like Desmond. He did not seem that appealing to me. Charlie was a better character than Desmond, but I did not love her. The ending of the story was really confusing. I thought the story had potential. I hope to see what T.L. Martin writes next. Overall, an okay read.
January 6, 2017
Love this story! I found that I related to the main character, Charlie really easily and really quickly. The author has a talent for writing memorable characters you fall in love with almost instantly. I think that's really where this book shines.
I'm not really big on romance, and even though this book is classified as paranormal romance, I found I still loved it. That's saying something...
I would definitely recommend and I can't wait for the sequel :)
I'm not really big on romance, and even though this book is classified as paranormal romance, I found I still loved it. That's saying something...
I would definitely recommend and I can't wait for the sequel :)
December 1, 2016
I received a copy of Singing Fire in exchange for my thoughts. Now, let’s get to it!
Singing Fire is the debut novel of T. L. Martin, and admittedly it’s a book that I found a bit difficult to get invested in in the beginning. I was confused with the opening (I admit, I had forgotten the synopsis), so it wasn't until I'd gotten a little further into the story and remembered that Charlie suffers from panic attacks and social anxiety. It explains her odd, yet endearing character traits. It also shines a light on why she’s a teenager with so few friends; I suppose panic attacks can put a damper on the mood, and kids/teens aren’t really known for their forgiving or accepting nature in school.
You come to understand that the city Charlie lives is a peaceful one where, in her words, "nothing ever happens. " However, you learn early on that there is more than meets the eye going on in this quiet city of Bandon, via the workers of “Your Tea Shop,� Charlie’s eventual place of employment. The tea shop houses a colorful cast of secondary characters (Pixie grew on me rather quickly with her bubbly personality), and these characters and their interactions and relationships are what make the book for me. There’s little better than great characters bouncing off each other in a believable way. That’s not to say that the characters are all that this book has going for it, because the opposite is true.
Supernatural creatures (supes for short in this review) inhabit the city and world in general, living amongst humans, though there is tension between the differing species, made evident by the way some of the Shop workers react to certain customers. Though the face of the Shop is working to erase said tensions, the very real problem of hostility and animosity between the different species is set up early in the book, which is appreciated. I can think of a few books (that were SUPERNATURAL thrillers) where it took half the book to show one supernatural creatures, never mind the tensions they had with others. Martin skirts this problem by introducing the supernatural elements of the book naturally, and quite subtly at that.
We see the formidable threat Charlie faces early on, and while I can appreciate a protagonist who isn't the type to whine or cry about their predicament for half the book, when a supes, who is clearly stronger than you, tells you to do something with your safety in mind, you should listen. Charlie doesn't do this, and it confused the heck out of me. Why a human who could barely follow the movements of fighting supes would try and engage in the fight . . . well it just doesn't make much sense. Though I'm sure that was due to Charlie wanting to come across as strong rather than a damsel that always needs protecting. And she’s far from a mere damsel needing to be saved, but the fighting skills she has pales when compared to the heightened . . . well everything that a supes has. Still, she doesn’t relent in her brave (or foolish) behavior, and her decisions had me scratching my head in frustration and confusion more than once.
On another note, the book deals with romance, and I'm not a huge fan of romances apart from a few series I currently follow. Most are too unbelievable and cliché in my opinion. The romance in this book though, it was more believable and human than most books I’ve read that have little to no supernatural elements. What, with Charlie's awkward social skills, and lack of steady interaction with others on a personal level, I found her budding attractions to (MINOR SPOILER) Des natural and vice versa. However, as much as I love vamps, I've always found it weird that they'd want a relationship with someone over a century younger than themselves. Seems a little creepy to me. Just a random thought. Their relationship is a roller coaster, understandably so given everything that happens between them (which I won’t spoil), and I enjoyed watching it progress.
Martin did a great job crafting complex characters that were more than just tropes or one-note characters, and the way the magic is presented is . . . magical, for lack of a more fitting term. It put me in the mind of my favorite series, The Mystic Series, which is the best series about magic and romance I've ever read. It's very easy to visualize the world that was built, and that's thanks to the vivid descriptions, believable characters and real-world ties.
I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy this book. While it wasn't perfect, (because what book is, right?) it was a stellar debut. Honestly it didn't even seem like the work of a new author, but a seasoned writer at the top of their game. I wouldn't have done some of the things Charlie did, like deciding to keep things from those who could help her, or her decisions regarding the deliciously evil Tempest (who I freaking loved by the way. She's a character you just love to hate), but that’s just me. All in all, Singing Fire was a great read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys magnetic characters that make you care, a great villain, and complex relationships.
Singing Fire is the debut novel of T. L. Martin, and admittedly it’s a book that I found a bit difficult to get invested in in the beginning. I was confused with the opening (I admit, I had forgotten the synopsis), so it wasn't until I'd gotten a little further into the story and remembered that Charlie suffers from panic attacks and social anxiety. It explains her odd, yet endearing character traits. It also shines a light on why she’s a teenager with so few friends; I suppose panic attacks can put a damper on the mood, and kids/teens aren’t really known for their forgiving or accepting nature in school.
You come to understand that the city Charlie lives is a peaceful one where, in her words, "nothing ever happens. " However, you learn early on that there is more than meets the eye going on in this quiet city of Bandon, via the workers of “Your Tea Shop,� Charlie’s eventual place of employment. The tea shop houses a colorful cast of secondary characters (Pixie grew on me rather quickly with her bubbly personality), and these characters and their interactions and relationships are what make the book for me. There’s little better than great characters bouncing off each other in a believable way. That’s not to say that the characters are all that this book has going for it, because the opposite is true.
Supernatural creatures (supes for short in this review) inhabit the city and world in general, living amongst humans, though there is tension between the differing species, made evident by the way some of the Shop workers react to certain customers. Though the face of the Shop is working to erase said tensions, the very real problem of hostility and animosity between the different species is set up early in the book, which is appreciated. I can think of a few books (that were SUPERNATURAL thrillers) where it took half the book to show one supernatural creatures, never mind the tensions they had with others. Martin skirts this problem by introducing the supernatural elements of the book naturally, and quite subtly at that.
We see the formidable threat Charlie faces early on, and while I can appreciate a protagonist who isn't the type to whine or cry about their predicament for half the book, when a supes, who is clearly stronger than you, tells you to do something with your safety in mind, you should listen. Charlie doesn't do this, and it confused the heck out of me. Why a human who could barely follow the movements of fighting supes would try and engage in the fight . . . well it just doesn't make much sense. Though I'm sure that was due to Charlie wanting to come across as strong rather than a damsel that always needs protecting. And she’s far from a mere damsel needing to be saved, but the fighting skills she has pales when compared to the heightened . . . well everything that a supes has. Still, she doesn’t relent in her brave (or foolish) behavior, and her decisions had me scratching my head in frustration and confusion more than once.
On another note, the book deals with romance, and I'm not a huge fan of romances apart from a few series I currently follow. Most are too unbelievable and cliché in my opinion. The romance in this book though, it was more believable and human than most books I’ve read that have little to no supernatural elements. What, with Charlie's awkward social skills, and lack of steady interaction with others on a personal level, I found her budding attractions to (MINOR SPOILER) Des natural and vice versa. However, as much as I love vamps, I've always found it weird that they'd want a relationship with someone over a century younger than themselves. Seems a little creepy to me. Just a random thought. Their relationship is a roller coaster, understandably so given everything that happens between them (which I won’t spoil), and I enjoyed watching it progress.
Martin did a great job crafting complex characters that were more than just tropes or one-note characters, and the way the magic is presented is . . . magical, for lack of a more fitting term. It put me in the mind of my favorite series, The Mystic Series, which is the best series about magic and romance I've ever read. It's very easy to visualize the world that was built, and that's thanks to the vivid descriptions, believable characters and real-world ties.
I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy this book. While it wasn't perfect, (because what book is, right?) it was a stellar debut. Honestly it didn't even seem like the work of a new author, but a seasoned writer at the top of their game. I wouldn't have done some of the things Charlie did, like deciding to keep things from those who could help her, or her decisions regarding the deliciously evil Tempest (who I freaking loved by the way. She's a character you just love to hate), but that’s just me. All in all, Singing Fire was a great read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys magnetic characters that make you care, a great villain, and complex relationships.
February 10, 2017
Amazing book! Book Talk up soon!
July 30, 2017
* I GOT THIS BOOK FOR FREE FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR MY HONEST REVIEW ON IT *
Holy mother of wow. Where do I even start.
This book is about a girl named Charlie, she suffers from panic attacks and she's never really known how to handle them. She is prodded by her aunt to get a job so she applies at this tea shop which seems a bit peculiar. Through this she's plunged into a world of witches, vampires, demons, and a whole lot of twists and turns.
So I'll start with the dislikes first since there was only a few.
1. This is more so the editing/how the book was put together, it was a slow read for me just because the font was a lot smaller than normal. This is something I totally can get passed and I did get passed. I just don't read as fast with smaller sized fonts.
2. The beginning was a tad slow moving. I wanted to put this book down before I hit the 100 page mark because it was slow moving but after that 100th page I was like "WOAH. HOLD THE PHONE. LET'S GO LET'S KEEP READING."
So, here are my likes:
1. THE CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT. The author develops the characters in a way that makes you want to fall in love with them. Even the evil ones (which there are many.)
2. THE LOVE INTEREST. Okay, so, I'm not a relationship person. I'm not a romance person. Usually if books have romance in them I run for the hills screaming but this book made me run straight towards it screaming. Literally, ask my fiancé, I was rolling across the living room floor yelling "THESE TWO NEED TO KISS BECAUSE THERE'S SO MUCH TENSION BETWEEN THEM."
3. WORLD BUILDING. So, this is something that could have been developed a tad more but it's set in a normal town, no supernatural places or kingdoms of the sort so I can see why it's not super explained.
4. PLOT BUILDING. Oh my word. Things hit the fan and the way Martin wrote about them they just WOW. OKAY. There were so many twists and turns and I really enjoyed that. She took her time to invest into the plot and actually make sure everything pieced together instead of just throwing the plot together and going "Here I wrote something"
5. CREATURES. While the creatures are never fully explained like they would be in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them she definitely does a great job at going about differentiating between them. Especially with the witches. As much as I love the vampires I love the way each witch is different and each one has their own specialties.
6. RAY. Okay, so, this is a character but I really loved him as a character. You get introduced to Charlie's elderly neighbor right in the beginning and you just can't help but fall in love with him.
7. DESMONDDDDDD. "Evil" broody vampire that you really want to hate but can't and then you fall in love with him. Yeah, he's really cool too. I like him quite a lot.
So, I absolutely fell in love with this book. I give it a 4.75 out of 5 stars. I would give it a full five but since the book was such a slow moving book in the beginning it took me a long while to get into it. It also took me five months to finish it but with packing and moving and getting engaged and school I just... you'd understand. I really definitely recommend this book to people who are into paranormal fiction with slight romance and a whole lot of kick butt scenes because this book is amazing. I've been in a reading slump for awhile and can't pick up more than one book a month and this book has gotten me out of the reading slump.
Thank you so much to TL Martin for sending me the book to review. I loved it and I'm eagerly and patiently (very impatiently) waiting for the next book to come out!
Holy mother of wow. Where do I even start.
This book is about a girl named Charlie, she suffers from panic attacks and she's never really known how to handle them. She is prodded by her aunt to get a job so she applies at this tea shop which seems a bit peculiar. Through this she's plunged into a world of witches, vampires, demons, and a whole lot of twists and turns.
So I'll start with the dislikes first since there was only a few.
1. This is more so the editing/how the book was put together, it was a slow read for me just because the font was a lot smaller than normal. This is something I totally can get passed and I did get passed. I just don't read as fast with smaller sized fonts.
2. The beginning was a tad slow moving. I wanted to put this book down before I hit the 100 page mark because it was slow moving but after that 100th page I was like "WOAH. HOLD THE PHONE. LET'S GO LET'S KEEP READING."
So, here are my likes:
1. THE CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT. The author develops the characters in a way that makes you want to fall in love with them. Even the evil ones (which there are many.)
2. THE LOVE INTEREST. Okay, so, I'm not a relationship person. I'm not a romance person. Usually if books have romance in them I run for the hills screaming but this book made me run straight towards it screaming. Literally, ask my fiancé, I was rolling across the living room floor yelling "THESE TWO NEED TO KISS BECAUSE THERE'S SO MUCH TENSION BETWEEN THEM."
3. WORLD BUILDING. So, this is something that could have been developed a tad more but it's set in a normal town, no supernatural places or kingdoms of the sort so I can see why it's not super explained.
4. PLOT BUILDING. Oh my word. Things hit the fan and the way Martin wrote about them they just WOW. OKAY. There were so many twists and turns and I really enjoyed that. She took her time to invest into the plot and actually make sure everything pieced together instead of just throwing the plot together and going "Here I wrote something"
5. CREATURES. While the creatures are never fully explained like they would be in Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them she definitely does a great job at going about differentiating between them. Especially with the witches. As much as I love the vampires I love the way each witch is different and each one has their own specialties.
6. RAY. Okay, so, this is a character but I really loved him as a character. You get introduced to Charlie's elderly neighbor right in the beginning and you just can't help but fall in love with him.
7. DESMONDDDDDD. "Evil" broody vampire that you really want to hate but can't and then you fall in love with him. Yeah, he's really cool too. I like him quite a lot.
So, I absolutely fell in love with this book. I give it a 4.75 out of 5 stars. I would give it a full five but since the book was such a slow moving book in the beginning it took me a long while to get into it. It also took me five months to finish it but with packing and moving and getting engaged and school I just... you'd understand. I really definitely recommend this book to people who are into paranormal fiction with slight romance and a whole lot of kick butt scenes because this book is amazing. I've been in a reading slump for awhile and can't pick up more than one book a month and this book has gotten me out of the reading slump.
Thank you so much to TL Martin for sending me the book to review. I loved it and I'm eagerly and patiently (very impatiently) waiting for the next book to come out!
April 9, 2017
Originally posted @
*3.5 Stars*
Worldbuilding- It was fun diving into the world of Singing Fire. I liked the fact that the modern day world as we know it and the fantasy element of the story intermingled seamlessly. Of course, the Tea Shop was my favorite place of all. I loved how the story opened with Charlie discovering the little shop and the end of the story seemed to end there as well.
Characters- All of the characters were fleshed out beautifully, and I must say I even enjoyed the villains in this story! You have characters from human, witch, vampire, and demon and I loved all of them! If I were to pick a favorite character it would have to be Desmond. There’s a second book coming this summer for this duology and I’d love for there to be some Desmond POV!
Plot- The plot was interesting. I did catch some similarities to another well-known vampire YA book but I still enjoyed it.
Pacing- It took me roughly two weeks to finish this book. My average reading time for a novel is ten days so not too entirely bad. I think what could have helped me would have been shorter chapters. WARNING: Extra Long Chapters!!
I’d compare it to: Think if the entire Twilight saga and the entire Lux series got together and had a baby. You’d get a plot with Twilight elements mixed with romance similar to what’d you’d find between Daemon & Katy.
*3.5 Stars*
Worldbuilding- It was fun diving into the world of Singing Fire. I liked the fact that the modern day world as we know it and the fantasy element of the story intermingled seamlessly. Of course, the Tea Shop was my favorite place of all. I loved how the story opened with Charlie discovering the little shop and the end of the story seemed to end there as well.
Characters- All of the characters were fleshed out beautifully, and I must say I even enjoyed the villains in this story! You have characters from human, witch, vampire, and demon and I loved all of them! If I were to pick a favorite character it would have to be Desmond. There’s a second book coming this summer for this duology and I’d love for there to be some Desmond POV!
Plot- The plot was interesting. I did catch some similarities to another well-known vampire YA book but I still enjoyed it.
Pacing- It took me roughly two weeks to finish this book. My average reading time for a novel is ten days so not too entirely bad. I think what could have helped me would have been shorter chapters. WARNING: Extra Long Chapters!!
I’d compare it to: Think if the entire Twilight saga and the entire Lux series got together and had a baby. You’d get a plot with Twilight elements mixed with romance similar to what’d you’d find between Daemon & Katy.
March 16, 2017
Great story! Normally I'm not really into this type of read but I did enjoy it a lot. It was very well written and the way she describes the scenes and characters really puts you in the story. And... got to get that next one... where is it... I need it now.....
March 18, 2017
I received a copy from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review
3.5
This book was original, entertaining, exciting, and yet a little underwhelming.
Seventeen year old Charlie lives with her aunt. She suffers from severe anxiety and is eventually home schooled because of it. She doesn't really have any friends and spends most of her time alone. She applies for a job at a tea shop and everything changes. She learns that there are witches, vampires, demons, and that she has a special role to play in their world. Her love interest is vampire, which is strictly forbidden (inter-species romance is quite the no-no.) But isn't that the fun?
I think the story could have benefited from Charlie being a touch older, something closer to nineteen. Her thoughts were far too wordy for a seventeen year old. In fact, I think most of the characters should have been a little older. Their age and maturity just didn't seem to fit the epic nature of things they were preparing for. No one seemed to know what they were doing, yet they were all confident that things were going to work out. While I was reading, I was reminded a bit of the first few seasons of Buffy. (Complete with forbidden romance with older, brooding, handsome vampire). It seemed mostly a bunch of ill equipped kids dealing with things way over their heads.
There were several instances of TSTL syndrome, and not just from Charlie. But mostly Charlie. Are you trying to get killed? Charlie was constantly over confident in her ability to follow through with things that she'd only practiced once or twice.
Her romance with Desmond was a bit of a mystery to me. Most of the time, I just didn't see it. Well, at least from his end. Her age and her actions/thoughts were just so inconsistent. In one instance she thinks something along the lines of never having kissed "a boy", then another she is thinking about being in love with "this man". It just struck me as odd. She really lacks anything to make her interesting or special beyond her supernatural role in everything. I think it would have been different if we had gotten more than a short chapter in Desmond's head. I just didn't understand what attracted him to Charlie in the first place. He's very vague when she asks the inevitable, "why me?" I wanted his affection for her to be more than the cliche of "innocent girl makes not so innocent supernatural being remember his what it's like to be human". That always bothers me because it's so generic. If it were me, I'd straight up ask, "So any innocent human girl would do?" But still. In the end, it doesn't matter. I'm a sucker for it all. Give me misunderstood and brooding, and you've got me. Give me tall, dark, and handsome and I'm there. In a heartbeat.
Okay, now that it sounds like I had a problem with everything in this book, let me say, I really did enjoy this book. In fact, I really enjoyed this book. Once I started it, I breezed right through it in two sittings. While a little convoluted, the plot was really the strength of Singing Fire. I just loved it. I've never really read anything like it, honestly. And in this genre? That's really saying something. Everything's been done. I loved the secondary characters, and I loved that there were so many of them. I even loved that there were so many things I didn't understand. Mostly because it made me super anxious for the next book. So many unanswered questions! I'm very excited for the next book. Give. Now.
3.5
This book was original, entertaining, exciting, and yet a little underwhelming.
Seventeen year old Charlie lives with her aunt. She suffers from severe anxiety and is eventually home schooled because of it. She doesn't really have any friends and spends most of her time alone. She applies for a job at a tea shop and everything changes. She learns that there are witches, vampires, demons, and that she has a special role to play in their world. Her love interest is vampire, which is strictly forbidden (inter-species romance is quite the no-no.) But isn't that the fun?
I think the story could have benefited from Charlie being a touch older, something closer to nineteen. Her thoughts were far too wordy for a seventeen year old. In fact, I think most of the characters should have been a little older. Their age and maturity just didn't seem to fit the epic nature of things they were preparing for. No one seemed to know what they were doing, yet they were all confident that things were going to work out. While I was reading, I was reminded a bit of the first few seasons of Buffy. (Complete with forbidden romance with older, brooding, handsome vampire). It seemed mostly a bunch of ill equipped kids dealing with things way over their heads.
There were several instances of TSTL syndrome, and not just from Charlie. But mostly Charlie. Are you trying to get killed? Charlie was constantly over confident in her ability to follow through with things that she'd only practiced once or twice.
Her romance with Desmond was a bit of a mystery to me. Most of the time, I just didn't see it. Well, at least from his end. Her age and her actions/thoughts were just so inconsistent. In one instance she thinks something along the lines of never having kissed "a boy", then another she is thinking about being in love with "this man". It just struck me as odd. She really lacks anything to make her interesting or special beyond her supernatural role in everything. I think it would have been different if we had gotten more than a short chapter in Desmond's head. I just didn't understand what attracted him to Charlie in the first place. He's very vague when she asks the inevitable, "why me?" I wanted his affection for her to be more than the cliche of "innocent girl makes not so innocent supernatural being remember his what it's like to be human". That always bothers me because it's so generic. If it were me, I'd straight up ask, "So any innocent human girl would do?" But still. In the end, it doesn't matter. I'm a sucker for it all. Give me misunderstood and brooding, and you've got me. Give me tall, dark, and handsome and I'm there. In a heartbeat.
Okay, now that it sounds like I had a problem with everything in this book, let me say, I really did enjoy this book. In fact, I really enjoyed this book. Once I started it, I breezed right through it in two sittings. While a little convoluted, the plot was really the strength of Singing Fire. I just loved it. I've never really read anything like it, honestly. And in this genre? That's really saying something. Everything's been done. I loved the secondary characters, and I loved that there were so many of them. I even loved that there were so many things I didn't understand. Mostly because it made me super anxious for the next book. So many unanswered questions! I'm very excited for the next book. Give. Now.
April 16, 2017
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
I received an e-copy in exchange of an honest review:
“Where there is light, darkness lurks. Where there is darkness, light prevails. There are no pure extremes of black and white within our souls. Charlie-only the shades between.�
It is a world same as ours, but it hides a secret� Another world of human with witches, vampires and demon that hides in plain sight. A woman behind a reception desk on your local hospital might be a demon. Their world is so like ours, they are also divided by race� ununited magical world. Creatures are looking for the Opal, a magical amplifier that acts as a philosopher stone, giving its wielder unimaginable power.
It was one a stone, now it emerges again in a different form�
The story started great, the world, the flow of the plot� I find it cute that different species have their “members only� tea shop. A peaceful shop serves as a central place of the story, where the protagonist’s life changed.
Charlie, our girl here. She is pestered with anxiety attack, that later on explained as an essential part of the story. A little random thought: I’m surprise she is still alive at the end of the story. She constantly hold her breath! She might die in forgetting to breath.
Desmond enters the scene a well assimilated vampire in the from the old times to the modern world with his language and maners, little did his old self remained.*Sigh* I think the author wants to portray a stern character , but it turns out to be a very gullible vampire, he yields easily to Charlie.
Characters at the café are, lika-able-yes!- but as the story progresses, their development halted. Maybe it is due to the stiff conversations, it leaves no room for characterization. Their dialogues are very straightforward. It seems they are so pliable with little arguments or nothing at all.
It also drives me crazy with all the winking of almost each character. What the�? Is it a craze in the magical world??
The ending made me feel I wasted a little time reading because there was no closure or something. It just ended didn’t gave any sense of fulfillment. It felt like it ended at the beginning of the story. A long prologue it was.
I’m sold out to the plot, totally love the idea. It started great but didn’t last long towards the end. There is a lot of room for improvement. It just didn’t grow on me. I didn’t developed any attachment to me. It needs a little bit of spice.
PS: Don’t get me wrong, the plot is promising, I’m still hoping for improvement for the characters. Well, I didn’t get to hate them after all, it’s a thing.
I received an e-copy in exchange of an honest review:
“Where there is light, darkness lurks. Where there is darkness, light prevails. There are no pure extremes of black and white within our souls. Charlie-only the shades between.�
It is a world same as ours, but it hides a secret� Another world of human with witches, vampires and demon that hides in plain sight. A woman behind a reception desk on your local hospital might be a demon. Their world is so like ours, they are also divided by race� ununited magical world. Creatures are looking for the Opal, a magical amplifier that acts as a philosopher stone, giving its wielder unimaginable power.
It was one a stone, now it emerges again in a different form�
The story started great, the world, the flow of the plot� I find it cute that different species have their “members only� tea shop. A peaceful shop serves as a central place of the story, where the protagonist’s life changed.
Charlie, our girl here. She is pestered with anxiety attack, that later on explained as an essential part of the story. A little random thought: I’m surprise she is still alive at the end of the story. She constantly hold her breath! She might die in forgetting to breath.
Desmond enters the scene a well assimilated vampire in the from the old times to the modern world with his language and maners, little did his old self remained.*Sigh* I think the author wants to portray a stern character , but it turns out to be a very gullible vampire, he yields easily to Charlie.
Characters at the café are, lika-able-yes!- but as the story progresses, their development halted. Maybe it is due to the stiff conversations, it leaves no room for characterization. Their dialogues are very straightforward. It seems they are so pliable with little arguments or nothing at all.
It also drives me crazy with all the winking of almost each character. What the�? Is it a craze in the magical world??
The ending made me feel I wasted a little time reading because there was no closure or something. It just ended didn’t gave any sense of fulfillment. It felt like it ended at the beginning of the story. A long prologue it was.
I’m sold out to the plot, totally love the idea. It started great but didn’t last long towards the end. There is a lot of room for improvement. It just didn’t grow on me. I didn’t developed any attachment to me. It needs a little bit of spice.
PS: Don’t get me wrong, the plot is promising, I’m still hoping for improvement for the characters. Well, I didn’t get to hate them after all, it’s a thing.
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