pixelsandreveries's review against another edition
Thoughts:
Virginia Boecker did a great job with her characters as their personality comes through very well. The story is written in the first person, present tense narrative and thus we are able to experience things as they happen to Elizabeth. I thought this was refreshing because her inner thoughts are brought to light and even though she is portrayed as a ruthless witch hunter we can see how vulnerable she really is. I felt really sorry for her because what she had to go through was awful and she was unnecessarily victimised. To be honest, I did not like her character as much as I liked some of the supporting characters. I thought that they had their own spotlight throughout the story which was well deserved and added so much more to the book.
I was surprised from the beginning because it was pretty clear that this book was not going to be like the average young adult book I read. I was absolutely intrigued about where the plot was heading and I think Boecker did a good job on steering it in the direction she did. It was evident that trusting people was going to be a huge issue in the plot because no one knew who Elizabeth really was and she realized later that her being a witch hunter could jeopardize everything. Her loyalties are tested as she forms distrusting alliances which turns to friendships. Furthermore, I loved the slow burning romance in the book because it had a very sweet and natural pace and it was comforting to read. I initially thought that I was going to read another book with a love triangle but I could not have been more wrong.
I have to say that I was disappointed with the climax because I found it lacking and I was expecting for more things to happen. In hindsight, I think the writing style should have been different as well because the wording is so very contemporary when it is a book set in the past. Despite this I read the book because it had a certain charm and coming from a debut author, it was definitely worth the read. I am looking forward to reading the next book as well as the novellas.
http://bookishreviewsandramblings.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/review-witch-hunter-by-virginia-boecker.html
Virginia Boecker did a great job with her characters as their personality comes through very well. The story is written in the first person, present tense narrative and thus we are able to experience things as they happen to Elizabeth. I thought this was refreshing because her inner thoughts are brought to light and even though she is portrayed as a ruthless witch hunter we can see how vulnerable she really is. I felt really sorry for her because what she had to go through was awful and she was unnecessarily victimised. To be honest, I did not like her character as much as I liked some of the supporting characters. I thought that they had their own spotlight throughout the story which was well deserved and added so much more to the book.
I was surprised from the beginning because it was pretty clear that this book was not going to be like the average young adult book I read. I was absolutely intrigued about where the plot was heading and I think Boecker did a good job on steering it in the direction she did. It was evident that trusting people was going to be a huge issue in the plot because no one knew who Elizabeth really was and she realized later that her being a witch hunter could jeopardize everything. Her loyalties are tested as she forms distrusting alliances which turns to friendships. Furthermore, I loved the slow burning romance in the book because it had a very sweet and natural pace and it was comforting to read. I initially thought that I was going to read another book with a love triangle but I could not have been more wrong.
I have to say that I was disappointed with the climax because I found it lacking and I was expecting for more things to happen. In hindsight, I think the writing style should have been different as well because the wording is so very contemporary when it is a book set in the past. Despite this I read the book because it had a certain charm and coming from a debut author, it was definitely worth the read. I am looking forward to reading the next book as well as the novellas.
http://bookishreviewsandramblings.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/review-witch-hunter-by-virginia-boecker.html
ark99's review against another edition
3.0
I actually really liked this! It wasn't all that special, but I wasn't expecting to like this so that's nice. I found the book at the dollar tree actually lol
It's a fantasy, but it is also a historical fiction because of the time period it's in. It is kind of like Clockwork angel by Cassandra Clare in that way or The glittering court series. These books are really entertaining honestly, because it has the fun fantasy part of the book while also giving you a historical vibe. I'll probably read the sequel eventually.
It's a fantasy, but it is also a historical fiction because of the time period it's in. It is kind of like Clockwork angel by Cassandra Clare in that way or The glittering court series. These books are really entertaining honestly, because it has the fun fantasy part of the book while also giving you a historical vibe. I'll probably read the sequel eventually.
raereadings's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
nephelila's review against another edition
3.0
I will be honest, this was far from being the best book ever. Nonetheless I enjoyed it. It felt a little all over the place near the end and the author probably wanted to make it somewhat original (and failed in my opinion because wtf lmao) but I am curious to see how the characters will evolve and more. It was not terrible and as I enjoyed the ride I am giving it 3 stars. It's one of these novels that are easy to go through and you do not have to think too much to understand what's going on which I appreciate after a long day. I hope the second book will surprise me!
dteston85's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
hopeful
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
everthereader's review against another edition
5.0
Rating: 4.75
This book surprised me. I was not expecting it to be this good. Yes, the plot wasn't very unique and the villain was pretty cliche. But damn this was so fast paced. This was definitely what I needed. On an entertainment level, this is 5/5. My favorite part was the team: Elizabeth, George, John, Fifer, I can't wait for the sequel! :D
This book surprised me. I was not expecting it to be this good. Yes, the plot wasn't very unique and the villain was pretty cliche. But damn this was so fast paced. This was definitely what I needed. On an entertainment level, this is 5/5. My favorite part was the team: Elizabeth, George, John, Fifer, I can't wait for the sequel! :D
erinarkin20's review against another edition
4.0
I could not wait to get my hands on The Witch Hunter by Virginia Boecker. The description told me this book was going to have everything I love in books – magic, deception, and great characters. And…it did!
Elizabeth Grey is a Witch Hunter and one of the King’s best. After the plague took her parents, Elizabeth crossed paths with Caleb and from that point on he became her family. Elizabeth is a fighter and she is willing to do whatever she can to protect the people she cares about – Which I loved about her. As she learns more about what is really going on around her, Elizabeth begins to realize who is really important to her and who she can trust.
The story begins with Elizabeth and Caleb on a hunt and although Elizabeth is still very much a strong fighter, something has been off with her. Something she hasn’t been able to tell Caleb (Sorry – I’m not saying what) and when the unthinkable happens and she finds herself accused of witchcraft, she thinks Caleb will be the person to save her. But the last person she even imagined would come to her rescue, Nicholas Perevil, the most powerful wizard (and most wanted wizard) in the kingdom, is the one who saves her and things get even more interesting.
Boecker has created this world where magic is something to hide and it is the Reformers that are trying to change the way things are. There are rules and if someone is captured by the Witch Hunters, they are taken to Blackwell, the man who trained and leads the Hunters. It is very clear that Blackwell has a plan and he doesn’t care who gets in his way. He will have what he wants and sacrifice anyone who will further his goals.
We also find out that Nicholas is sick and he has been directed by a seer to find Elizabeth as she is the one who will save him from the curse he is under. While they head off on their mission, there is plenty of action, some mysteries are uncovered, and there are definitely some swoony bits – which always make me happy.
I loved the way Boecker developed all of the characters in this book – the only exception being Malcolm, the King. He was made to be a “bad” guy but I never really got to understand why outside of the things we were told about him and his actions. I wanted to actually meet him and see for myself who he really was.
I talked about Elizabeth but let me chat about the others for a few minutes. First there is Caleb – he is the only person she feels like she can trust and it is clear that he cares about her, just not in the way she was hoping. As Elizabeth begins to learn more about Blackwell, she comes to realize just how important a role Caleb has in what is going on with everything.
Amongst the Reformers you have Nicholas, George, Fifer, and John. I loved how Boecker introduced Elizabeth and her background to these characters. They all fear and hate the Witch Hunters and for good reason. As they realize who she really is, they each come to terms about her background in their own way and it was done in a way that made it believable. Each of these characters has their own personalities and as I said, I liked them all. The banter, the friendship, and the loyalty they have amongst the group…if I were on the run and trying to stop something horrible, I would want them all by my side.
Ok, I can’t say anything else for fear of giving anything away. Overall I thought this was a fantastic story and I couldn’t bring myself to put it down. Considering how impatient I am with series books, I have to admit I am happy I forced myself to wait. I don’t know how I am going to wait so long for the next book to come out as I’m excited to see where Boecker takes the rest of the story based on the ending and if anyone wants to give me an early copy, I’m definitely okay with that (I want to do my part in supporting this series, you know). If you’re looking for a book with plenty of action, some deception, some swoon, and characters that will have you rooting for them all along the way, definitely check this one out when you can.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
Elizabeth Grey is a Witch Hunter and one of the King’s best. After the plague took her parents, Elizabeth crossed paths with Caleb and from that point on he became her family. Elizabeth is a fighter and she is willing to do whatever she can to protect the people she cares about – Which I loved about her. As she learns more about what is really going on around her, Elizabeth begins to realize who is really important to her and who she can trust.
The story begins with Elizabeth and Caleb on a hunt and although Elizabeth is still very much a strong fighter, something has been off with her. Something she hasn’t been able to tell Caleb (Sorry – I’m not saying what) and when the unthinkable happens and she finds herself accused of witchcraft, she thinks Caleb will be the person to save her. But the last person she even imagined would come to her rescue, Nicholas Perevil, the most powerful wizard (and most wanted wizard) in the kingdom, is the one who saves her and things get even more interesting.
Boecker has created this world where magic is something to hide and it is the Reformers that are trying to change the way things are. There are rules and if someone is captured by the Witch Hunters, they are taken to Blackwell, the man who trained and leads the Hunters. It is very clear that Blackwell has a plan and he doesn’t care who gets in his way. He will have what he wants and sacrifice anyone who will further his goals.
We also find out that Nicholas is sick and he has been directed by a seer to find Elizabeth as she is the one who will save him from the curse he is under. While they head off on their mission, there is plenty of action, some mysteries are uncovered, and there are definitely some swoony bits – which always make me happy.
I loved the way Boecker developed all of the characters in this book – the only exception being Malcolm, the King. He was made to be a “bad” guy but I never really got to understand why outside of the things we were told about him and his actions. I wanted to actually meet him and see for myself who he really was.
I talked about Elizabeth but let me chat about the others for a few minutes. First there is Caleb – he is the only person she feels like she can trust and it is clear that he cares about her, just not in the way she was hoping. As Elizabeth begins to learn more about Blackwell, she comes to realize just how important a role Caleb has in what is going on with everything.
Amongst the Reformers you have Nicholas, George, Fifer, and John. I loved how Boecker introduced Elizabeth and her background to these characters. They all fear and hate the Witch Hunters and for good reason. As they realize who she really is, they each come to terms about her background in their own way and it was done in a way that made it believable. Each of these characters has their own personalities and as I said, I liked them all. The banter, the friendship, and the loyalty they have amongst the group…if I were on the run and trying to stop something horrible, I would want them all by my side.
Ok, I can’t say anything else for fear of giving anything away. Overall I thought this was a fantastic story and I couldn’t bring myself to put it down. Considering how impatient I am with series books, I have to admit I am happy I forced myself to wait. I don’t know how I am going to wait so long for the next book to come out as I’m excited to see where Boecker takes the rest of the story based on the ending and if anyone wants to give me an early copy, I’m definitely okay with that (I want to do my part in supporting this series, you know). If you’re looking for a book with plenty of action, some deception, some swoon, and characters that will have you rooting for them all along the way, definitely check this one out when you can.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
erinarkin20's review against another edition
5.0
So happy with the way this ended!
The King Slayer by Virginia Boecker is the final book in The Witch Hunter duology and if you haven’t read book one, definitely go do that soon. I loved book one so much and it’s fair to say that The King Slayer was one of my must have books to get from ALA. I will do my best not to put any spoilers out there but please know that if you haven’t read book one, I can’t promise the same.
Elizabeth was once one of the King’s best witch hunters but when things go very wrong for her, she ends up partnering up with the people she was once tasked with hunting down. As The King Slayer picks up where book one ended, we know that Elizabeth is now missing the protection and strength that her stigma gave her. What it hasn’t changed is her strength to fight and protect the people she loves and cares about. I love this about her and while it creates a lot of heartache and she continues to put herself in the path of danger, she doesn’t do it without purpose.
The relationship Elizabeth has with those around her is still a sensitive one. While she has stepped up to protect Nicholas, John, and everyone else as needed, she is still someone who did Blackwell’s bidding and most people in Harrow find it hard to trust her completely. The exception would be the group from book one. Fifer and Elizabeth are in a much better place and while things happen in this book that test their friendship and the trust Fifer has for Elizabeth, in the end they are still there for each other and will do what they can to protect each other. And take my word for it, Elizabeth really tests the friendships she has built over the course of her time with them.
I want to take a moment to talk about John and Elizabeth. I love these two together and Boecker had me worried for them throughout the entire book. There are good times for them and there are definitely tough times and as the story nears the end, I wasn’t even sure where Boecker was going to take their story. I’m not going to say anything more on this but the one thing I will say is that I still really love these two and while Boecker challenged them both (together and alone) they both showed growth throughout the story and came out better for it in the end.
Speaking of Blackwell, now that he has taken the throne from the King, things are even more dangerous for Elizabeth. Blackwell doesn’t know she doesn’t have her stigma anymore and he wants her back. Of course, Elizabeth will do everything in her power to make sure he doesn’t find out what has happened and Blackwell has done something she never imagined he would do (UGH – I suck for doing that but…he really did!!).
As war looms and eventually comes, things change for all of these characters and Boecker definitely keeps things moving by loading the story up with a lot of action, great characters, and of course, magic. When things come to a head, no one is safe and as we near the end, Elizabeth is determined to figure out what Blackwell has planned and how she is going to stop him.
That’s about all I can say without giving anything away. If you haven’t started this series yet, I encourage you to do so. I really enjoyed it as it had everything I enjoy in good books and once I started, I found myself unable/unwilling to put the book down until I reached the end. I am for sure interested in what Boecker will write next and will be keeping an eye out. Go get this one my friends…I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
The King Slayer by Virginia Boecker is the final book in The Witch Hunter duology and if you haven’t read book one, definitely go do that soon. I loved book one so much and it’s fair to say that The King Slayer was one of my must have books to get from ALA. I will do my best not to put any spoilers out there but please know that if you haven’t read book one, I can’t promise the same.
Elizabeth was once one of the King’s best witch hunters but when things go very wrong for her, she ends up partnering up with the people she was once tasked with hunting down. As The King Slayer picks up where book one ended, we know that Elizabeth is now missing the protection and strength that her stigma gave her. What it hasn’t changed is her strength to fight and protect the people she loves and cares about. I love this about her and while it creates a lot of heartache and she continues to put herself in the path of danger, she doesn’t do it without purpose.
The relationship Elizabeth has with those around her is still a sensitive one. While she has stepped up to protect Nicholas, John, and everyone else as needed, she is still someone who did Blackwell’s bidding and most people in Harrow find it hard to trust her completely. The exception would be the group from book one. Fifer and Elizabeth are in a much better place and while things happen in this book that test their friendship and the trust Fifer has for Elizabeth, in the end they are still there for each other and will do what they can to protect each other. And take my word for it, Elizabeth really tests the friendships she has built over the course of her time with them.
I want to take a moment to talk about John and Elizabeth. I love these two together and Boecker had me worried for them throughout the entire book. There are good times for them and there are definitely tough times and as the story nears the end, I wasn’t even sure where Boecker was going to take their story. I’m not going to say anything more on this but the one thing I will say is that I still really love these two and while Boecker challenged them both (together and alone) they both showed growth throughout the story and came out better for it in the end.
Speaking of Blackwell, now that he has taken the throne from the King, things are even more dangerous for Elizabeth. Blackwell doesn’t know she doesn’t have her stigma anymore and he wants her back. Of course, Elizabeth will do everything in her power to make sure he doesn’t find out what has happened and Blackwell has done something she never imagined he would do (UGH – I suck for doing that but…he really did!!).
As war looms and eventually comes, things change for all of these characters and Boecker definitely keeps things moving by loading the story up with a lot of action, great characters, and of course, magic. When things come to a head, no one is safe and as we near the end, Elizabeth is determined to figure out what Blackwell has planned and how she is going to stop him.
That’s about all I can say without giving anything away. If you haven’t started this series yet, I encourage you to do so. I really enjoyed it as it had everything I enjoy in good books and once I started, I found myself unable/unwilling to put the book down until I reached the end. I am for sure interested in what Boecker will write next and will be keeping an eye out. Go get this one my friends…I don’t think you will be disappointed.
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!
geldauran's review against another edition
33% in the book, just not feeling it. It's like...this world doesn't make sense. Doesn't this world have doctors of any kind? If the MC gets arrested and is going to be executed for having some herbs, does that mean that any herbs will get someone arrested? Are there doctors in this medieval world? If so do they only use leeches and needles (which seem more sinister and witchy than plants tbh)? Is there just no medicine? But then people can brew absinthe, which had woodworm (a poison) in it, and this raises no suspicion? How does this work? Is there a list somewhere of okay herbs? This may seem incredibly picky but the entire premise of the book is based on people who are in possession of certain herbs being charged as witches and burned alive.
Further, given the premise of this world and that having herbs can get you arrested and killed, it seems awfully convenient that 5 necromancers were just hanging out and had all their stuff sitting on tables in plain view where someone could just peek in and see it. Are these just particularly reckless necromancers? Are you telling me that the crown honestly equates possession of anti-pregnancy herbs with raising the dead? But, despite this, accidentally killing a watch in the heat of battle is a big no-no? idk i cant get on board
Further, given the premise of this world and that having herbs can get you arrested and killed, it seems awfully convenient that 5 necromancers were just hanging out and had all their stuff sitting on tables in plain view where someone could just peek in and see it. Are these just particularly reckless necromancers? Are you telling me that the crown honestly equates possession of anti-pregnancy herbs with raising the dead? But, despite this, accidentally killing a watch in the heat of battle is a big no-no? idk i cant get on board
blakehalsey's review against another edition
5.0
Y'all. This book is THE book. It is so beautiful, tense, romantic, and brutal. I loved it. Excellent action, excellent swoon, and a super fresh take on fantasy involving witches. Boecker kills it. Can't wait for TWH2.