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coffeeornah's review against another edition
3.0
I was given an ARC to read so that I would give an honest reveiw so here it is and I hope that I'm not hurting her feelings.
Alright so I wanted so badly to give this a 5 star rating. But I just can't. There is so much that I want to see in this book, I wanted more description of Tir Na Nog, I wanted more of the back story of the characters in this book. I just wanted more! I think its the beginning of something very beautiful yes, its just not there yet. I hope the second book (please let there be a second one) its just that little bit better. Good job Laura!
Alright so I wanted so badly to give this a 5 star rating. But I just can't. There is so much that I want to see in this book, I wanted more description of Tir Na Nog, I wanted more of the back story of the characters in this book. I just wanted more! I think its the beginning of something very beautiful yes, its just not there yet. I hope the second book (please let there be a second one) its just that little bit better. Good job Laura!
mlboyd20's review against another edition
3.0
I was uber excited to do this read for review. The author had provided me a finished epub copy, BUT for the review I read it from the paperback edition that I had purchased on my own for a book signing coming up. I had the pleasure of seeing this book go from a writer’s imagination to the actual written word and it’s quite amazing. Laura Howard had invited me into her group when she was going through the beginning draft stages and she openly welcomed the group’s thoughts and ideas.
This story age-wise is more New Adult, but the story itself fit the YA genre nicely. A well worded fantasy novel with fairy folklore and such that grabs the attention of the reader. We start off modern day; a girl, her schizophrenic mother, loving grandparents, friends and a romantic interest. Add in a never seen father, his assortment of cohorts and such and together you have a unique fantasy world.
The story was good, but I got so lost with all the different characters. It seemed to get quite confusing and jumbled at times. The Irish wording also was not a favorite of mine. Yes, it added a sense of factuality to the story, but I think I would have gotten more out of the story if the author had used names that were much more pronounceable and non-distracting.
I felt there was a bit of lack of emotion from the characters at times that made the story lackluster. The exchange between Allison and Liam, especially when they first met, was just too benign. The rage didn’t come through, the betrayal she should have felt wasn’t quite evident and the surprise he was dealt was treated like just another day. The whole thing with Allison and Ethan, back and forth, the flirting, etc., well, they are both at the age when that stuff is left for the highschoolers and reality of adulthood would have had them acting quite more grown up about it and handle things at a different level.
Other than that, the story is enjoyable. In the literary world were fantasy, especially fairy, tales have been twisted and turned so many different ways, Laura Howard came through with a unique and enthralling story which will make all readers of fantasy jump for joy.
This story age-wise is more New Adult, but the story itself fit the YA genre nicely. A well worded fantasy novel with fairy folklore and such that grabs the attention of the reader. We start off modern day; a girl, her schizophrenic mother, loving grandparents, friends and a romantic interest. Add in a never seen father, his assortment of cohorts and such and together you have a unique fantasy world.
The story was good, but I got so lost with all the different characters. It seemed to get quite confusing and jumbled at times. The Irish wording also was not a favorite of mine. Yes, it added a sense of factuality to the story, but I think I would have gotten more out of the story if the author had used names that were much more pronounceable and non-distracting.
I felt there was a bit of lack of emotion from the characters at times that made the story lackluster. The exchange between Allison and Liam, especially when they first met, was just too benign. The rage didn’t come through, the betrayal she should have felt wasn’t quite evident and the surprise he was dealt was treated like just another day. The whole thing with Allison and Ethan, back and forth, the flirting, etc., well, they are both at the age when that stuff is left for the highschoolers and reality of adulthood would have had them acting quite more grown up about it and handle things at a different level.
Other than that, the story is enjoyable. In the literary world were fantasy, especially fairy, tales have been twisted and turned so many different ways, Laura Howard came through with a unique and enthralling story which will make all readers of fantasy jump for joy.
meimpink's review against another edition
2.0
This one hurt. The first three or so chapters were actually really really good, with a rather decent cast of well-rounded characters set up, budding relationships that I wanted to see grow, and an intriguing mystery that was going to coalesce over the rest of the book. Then the author threw it all out the window and really tried to force us to like the unlikeable fairy characters and believe the whatever-it-was-that-was-supposed-to-pass-for-a-plot. I did enjoy those first three or so chapters, though.
neenor's review against another edition
1.0
I'd had my eye on The Forgotten Ones for a while, so when I was given the opportunity to join in on the blog tour, I jumped right in. The folklore genre is constantly growing on me - there is something I love about the beauty and majestic energy surrounding it. The Forgotten Ones was no exception to this, and from beginning to end, Howard swept me up into the world of the Tuatha de Danaan.
Ever since she can remember, Allison's mother has suffered from schizophrenia. Determined to get to grad school and find a good job so she can support her mother, Allison doesn't have time for a romantic relationship with Ethan, the hot boy next door. But maybe this isn't the only option she has? Out of the blue her father reappears, and with him the promise that he can restore Allison's mother to how she used to be. Suddenly, Allison finds herself tossed head-first into the land of the Tuatha de Danaan, otherwise known as faeries. However, not all of them are as nice as they first seem, and very soon, Allison won't be the only one in danger.
The novel is just under 200 pages, so I was aware that Howard had a lot to cram in to such short space, especially for a novel with fantasy elements. But I actually thought she managed this quite well. She explained who the Tuatha de Danaan were very well and quite easily for how complicated the idea was, and I didn't find myself lost at any point.
The character of Allison was incredibly reserved, which sometimes borderlined on annoying, and I was unable to properly connect with her. As the reader, I wanted more between her and Ethan, and although there was chemistry, Howard didn't do a lot of it. I'm really hoping that in the next book there is a lot more interaction between them, and that Allison is less dull.
Although the concept was amazing, I wanted more depth. It was quite short as I said, so I can understand that not as much could transfer across. But I wanted more, just like how I wanted more from Allison and Ethan's relationship.
Overall I did enjoy this novel, but if I had to describe my feelings towards it with one word, that word would be more. I needed more, consistently throughout it. For such an amazing concept, it felt like there was a barrier between the story and the reader, which didn't enable me to connect with it as much as I'd have liked. However, I have high hopes for this series, and I'm looking forward to seeing what Howard comes up with next.
Ever since she can remember, Allison's mother has suffered from schizophrenia. Determined to get to grad school and find a good job so she can support her mother, Allison doesn't have time for a romantic relationship with Ethan, the hot boy next door. But maybe this isn't the only option she has? Out of the blue her father reappears, and with him the promise that he can restore Allison's mother to how she used to be. Suddenly, Allison finds herself tossed head-first into the land of the Tuatha de Danaan, otherwise known as faeries. However, not all of them are as nice as they first seem, and very soon, Allison won't be the only one in danger.
The novel is just under 200 pages, so I was aware that Howard had a lot to cram in to such short space, especially for a novel with fantasy elements. But I actually thought she managed this quite well. She explained who the Tuatha de Danaan were very well and quite easily for how complicated the idea was, and I didn't find myself lost at any point.
The character of Allison was incredibly reserved, which sometimes borderlined on annoying, and I was unable to properly connect with her. As the reader, I wanted more between her and Ethan, and although there was chemistry, Howard didn't do a lot of it. I'm really hoping that in the next book there is a lot more interaction between them, and that Allison is less dull.
Although the concept was amazing, I wanted more depth. It was quite short as I said, so I can understand that not as much could transfer across. But I wanted more, just like how I wanted more from Allison and Ethan's relationship.
Overall I did enjoy this novel, but if I had to describe my feelings towards it with one word, that word would be more. I needed more, consistently throughout it. For such an amazing concept, it felt like there was a barrier between the story and the reader, which didn't enable me to connect with it as much as I'd have liked. However, I have high hopes for this series, and I'm looking forward to seeing what Howard comes up with next.
siobhan27's review against another edition
4.0
I have to admit that I was very surprised by this novel. I am always a little skeptical when it comes to books that aren't published by traditional publishers. But you know what? I am so glad I read this book. It was captivating right from the beginning and I will admit that I couldn't put it down!
What I think I loved most about this book was its culture and history. The Fae world that Laura created is based on actual Scottish myths and legends and I have to say that having a Gaelic name myself, I loved seeing all those cultural names--even if they were hard to pronounce at first! The characters felt real and I was invested from the beginning. One of the only complaints I have logistically is I wish the book was longer. Being only 177 I felt like I flew through it, and I was left wanting a lot more. Especially in the romance department. The main character Alisson has supressed feelings for Ethan that she denied throughout the whole book, and while reading you can tell there are mutual feelings going on, but I felt a little jipped. I wanted some culmintaion of those feeling ;) But maybe that will happen in book 2.
One other thing I would have liked was for there to be more of the Fae world in the beginning. When I started reading this book it felt like a straight contemporary book and then we are thrust into this whole other world. I loved that world and the character that we meet in it, but I just wish it was introduced a little sooner.
Overall this book was way more than I expected and I did not think I would get that invested in the character. The writing style is superb and I can only hope that Laura continues to write because I will continue to read everything she puts out into the world. It was great fantasy read!
What I think I loved most about this book was its culture and history. The Fae world that Laura created is based on actual Scottish myths and legends and I have to say that having a Gaelic name myself, I loved seeing all those cultural names--even if they were hard to pronounce at first! The characters felt real and I was invested from the beginning. One of the only complaints I have logistically is I wish the book was longer. Being only 177 I felt like I flew through it, and I was left wanting a lot more. Especially in the romance department. The main character Alisson has supressed feelings for Ethan that she denied throughout the whole book, and while reading you can tell there are mutual feelings going on, but I felt a little jipped. I wanted some culmintaion of those feeling ;) But maybe that will happen in book 2.
One other thing I would have liked was for there to be more of the Fae world in the beginning. When I started reading this book it felt like a straight contemporary book and then we are thrust into this whole other world. I loved that world and the character that we meet in it, but I just wish it was introduced a little sooner.
Overall this book was way more than I expected and I did not think I would get that invested in the character. The writing style is superb and I can only hope that Laura continues to write because I will continue to read everything she puts out into the world. It was great fantasy read!
wperdue92's review against another edition
4.0
I am not big fan of fantasy and I admit I didn't completely read the synopsis when I downloaded this one. I was pleasantly surprised with this one. Allison is completely devoted to her schizophrenic mother and puts her first in her life. When her father shows up bearing secrets and promises of helping her mother, Allison is skeptical. She is willing to do whatever it takes to help her mother and enters the world of the Tuatha de Danaan to do so. This book was a perfect mix of the "real" world and fantasy for me. I was caught up in the story line and rooting for Allison and her mom. Just when I thought things were nicely wrapped up, a nice little twist. I cannot wait to read the next book and can now say I am a fan of fantasy!
casseyt's review against another edition
2.0
Another one of those, interesting idea but poorly executed reads.
themumwhoreads's review against another edition
3.0
Review also published on my blog StudentSpyglass
Plot: ★★★
Characters: ★★★
Readability: ★★★★
Overall: ★★★
When Allison’s long lost father shows up claiming that her mother’s schizophrenia has a supernatural basis, Allison can’t help being skeptical. Eventually drawn in by the possibility of a cure, she listens to Liam’s point of view, and discovers a world she’d never even dreamed of. This is where Howard’s writing shines, with beautiful, evocative imagery.
I really enjoyed the magical world Howard has created in The Forgotten ones. The Irish folklore used is really interesting, and stands out if you’re looking for something that isn’t based on vampires, werewolves or angels. It sort of felt like a younger Nora Roberts novel, though there is less of a focus on the romance.
Allison was a character you couldn’t help but like, strong-willed though a little remote due to her circumstances. She does her best to care for her mother and help her grandparents, even if that means pushing aside some of her own desires. Ethan is one of those desires Allison’s trying to ignore, but he doesn’t make life easy for her. I really liked Ethan, and I really wanted things to work out for him and Allison, so I’d have liked to see a little more of the romance side throughout the story. However, Allison’s changing relationship with her father Liam was wonderful to read.
There were lots of minor characters, which I occasionally struggled to keep track of, but I loved the pronunciation guide at the beginning for the Gaelic names. The story took a little while to truly draw me in, (probably because I don’t usually read contemporary), but once I was sucked in I finished it very quickly. It’s a quick, easy read with a cliffhanger ending that will definitely leave you wanting the rest of the series!
Side note: although technically a New Adult novel, this had a definite YA feel to it, so if you’re nervous about the NA side, don’t be!
Plot: ★★★
Characters: ★★★
Readability: ★★★★
Overall: ★★★
When Allison’s long lost father shows up claiming that her mother’s schizophrenia has a supernatural basis, Allison can’t help being skeptical. Eventually drawn in by the possibility of a cure, she listens to Liam’s point of view, and discovers a world she’d never even dreamed of. This is where Howard’s writing shines, with beautiful, evocative imagery.
I really enjoyed the magical world Howard has created in The Forgotten ones. The Irish folklore used is really interesting, and stands out if you’re looking for something that isn’t based on vampires, werewolves or angels. It sort of felt like a younger Nora Roberts novel, though there is less of a focus on the romance.
Allison was a character you couldn’t help but like, strong-willed though a little remote due to her circumstances. She does her best to care for her mother and help her grandparents, even if that means pushing aside some of her own desires. Ethan is one of those desires Allison’s trying to ignore, but he doesn’t make life easy for her. I really liked Ethan, and I really wanted things to work out for him and Allison, so I’d have liked to see a little more of the romance side throughout the story. However, Allison’s changing relationship with her father Liam was wonderful to read.
There were lots of minor characters, which I occasionally struggled to keep track of, but I loved the pronunciation guide at the beginning for the Gaelic names. The story took a little while to truly draw me in, (probably because I don’t usually read contemporary), but once I was sucked in I finished it very quickly. It’s a quick, easy read with a cliffhanger ending that will definitely leave you wanting the rest of the series!
Side note: although technically a New Adult novel, this had a definite YA feel to it, so if you’re nervous about the NA side, don’t be!
gettinglostinagoodbook's review against another edition
2.0
This book had a lot of potential but left me a little bit confused. Even at the end I'm not sure who the characters were and why they are so important - what their roles are in this other world. I think I give this a 2.
momwithareadingproblem's review against another edition
5.0
The Forgotten Ones by [a:Laura Howard|6653788|Laura Howard|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1356495647p2/6653788.jpg] is book one of the Danaan Trilogy and follows the story of Allison O'Malley. Allison is a hard-working grad-student who lives with her grandparents and paranoid schizophrenic mother. When her estranged father shows up at her door one day, claiming he can cure her mother, Allison must make a decision. Can she trust him?
Allison is one of my favorite characters to date (and I've read lots of books). She's not whiny or needy. In fact she's as independent as she can be and is working hard to be able to take care of herself and her mom one day. When her father shows up, clueless that he even has a daughter, and claiming he can cure her mother, Allison spirals a bit. She doesn't trust him and has some serious anger issues to deal with, but as other unexplainable things begin to happen (things involving magic) she has no choice.
And then there's Ethan, my new book boyfriend :) Ethan is a friend of the family, someone Allison's known her whole life and she's in love with him. He obviously feels the same, but Allison pushes him away. Ethan is handsome, mischievous and determined to win her over though. And this makes me love him even more!
The author does a great job of weaving in Irish folklore with her own vision of the Tuatha de Danaan. It's seamlessly done and I had a hard time distinguishing between the two. I loved the imagery of the fairy world and the characters from it! My favorite character though was Aodhan, he was once a human enthralled by a fairy who lived too long in the fairy land becoming more fairy than human. He's gruff and like a fairy vigilante! Love him!
Overall I devoured this book and it's sequel in less than 24 hours. The characters are wonderfully written and the imagery and magic of the fairy world is enchanting! If you enjoy fantasy, suspense, a little romance, than I highly recommend you check out this book! You won't be disappointed.
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Allison is one of my favorite characters to date (and I've read lots of books). She's not whiny or needy. In fact she's as independent as she can be and is working hard to be able to take care of herself and her mom one day. When her father shows up, clueless that he even has a daughter, and claiming he can cure her mother, Allison spirals a bit. She doesn't trust him and has some serious anger issues to deal with, but as other unexplainable things begin to happen (things involving magic) she has no choice.
And then there's Ethan, my new book boyfriend :) Ethan is a friend of the family, someone Allison's known her whole life and she's in love with him. He obviously feels the same, but Allison pushes him away. Ethan is handsome, mischievous and determined to win her over though. And this makes me love him even more!
The author does a great job of weaving in Irish folklore with her own vision of the Tuatha de Danaan. It's seamlessly done and I had a hard time distinguishing between the two. I loved the imagery of the fairy world and the characters from it! My favorite character though was Aodhan, he was once a human enthralled by a fairy who lived too long in the fairy land becoming more fairy than human. He's gruff and like a fairy vigilante! Love him!
Overall I devoured this book and it's sequel in less than 24 hours. The characters are wonderfully written and the imagery and magic of the fairy world is enchanting! If you enjoy fantasy, suspense, a little romance, than I highly recommend you check out this book! You won't be disappointed.
I received a copy of this ebook from the author in exchange for an honest review.