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freadomlibrary's review against another edition
5.0
Just thought you should know I think this should've been a duology. The first three books combined and then this one.
Critically
Plot - 4.5 out of 5 stars
Loved this! It was action packed, with a lot of shocking twists, magic, death, defiance against an established system and a sort of open end that felt incredibly bittersweet.
Writing Style - 3.5 out of 5 stars
Really simple. I liked that this time around there were more descriptions and it was a faster pace. It was more lively, there was more excitement and the dull moments that were prominent before were gone this time.
Characters - 4 out of 5 stars
Overall, I really enjoyed all the characters and how they acted in this book. I've been waiting for them to grow and develop into strong and fierce characters and in this book they all are. Laurel is brave, smart, persistent, strong and hopeful for the future. She really stuck out as a great heroine in this book and I wish she would've been that way the whole time. All the side characters were extremely brave and strong. Our two main male characters showed a lot of great qualities in the face of adversity and I finally got to the point where I liked one of them, who I've been struggling to deal with for awhile, but he definitely went up on my list with this book.
Emotionally
The plot was, again, what I've been looking for the whole time. It was action packed and full of tension. So many things were going on all at once. The invasion of trolls, the invasion of Klea, all the magic spells that were killing people. We finally get the answers we've been searching for about who Klea is and who Yuki is and what they were trying to accomplish. Everything that I wanted to know I found out in this book. We finally got to see some people stand up to the awful caste system of the faeries and stand up to the queen. We got some closure on open relationships and friendships. But it really sucks that it all had to come in the last book. We spent too many pages on trying to find out all these things. It could've easily been an outstanding duology if the first three books were combined and then they were followed by this book. I liked the ending. I took it for what it was but it was too open ended for me. I wish there would've been a steadier resolution.
Laurel's character development is so good in this one! Finally she's up to par with what I expected of her. She finally showed all of her potential, not only as a Fall faerie with her potions, but with leadership, quick thinking and strength. It was great to finally see her step up to the plate, although it was almost too close for comfort since everyone was depending on her. Also, I am really glad that she finally made the decisions that she was avoiding since the beginning. She chose Tamani which I guess I can deal with and she knew that she belonged in the human world at least for the time being.
It look me a really long time to actually like Tamani. It wasn't until this book where I got his POV where I finally understood him and agreed with his decisions a bit more. Not all the way since I can't forgive his rudeness and how disrespectful he was to David and Laurel's relationship. But he goes through so much in this one, loosing his best friend, his sister and still having to keep going and fighting to try to save everyone's lives. Although, I finally got around to liking him, its just too late to invest in his romance with Laurel. I understand it and understand why she chose him in the end, but there are no feelings of my own attached to them. They're just another couple, not one of my favorites.
I wasn't going to read past the ending but Miss Pike added a letter from David to Chelsea years into the future and it broke my heart. It was just so bittersweet to know that would be the real ending, David forgetting everything about those years of his life. I wish we could have some books during that struggle for him because he's one of my favorite characters and I want to connect with him more.
Critically
Plot - 4.5 out of 5 stars
Loved this! It was action packed, with a lot of shocking twists, magic, death, defiance against an established system and a sort of open end that felt incredibly bittersweet.
Writing Style - 3.5 out of 5 stars
Really simple. I liked that this time around there were more descriptions and it was a faster pace. It was more lively, there was more excitement and the dull moments that were prominent before were gone this time.
Characters - 4 out of 5 stars
Overall, I really enjoyed all the characters and how they acted in this book. I've been waiting for them to grow and develop into strong and fierce characters and in this book they all are. Laurel is brave, smart, persistent, strong and hopeful for the future. She really stuck out as a great heroine in this book and I wish she would've been that way the whole time. All the side characters were extremely brave and strong. Our two main male characters showed a lot of great qualities in the face of adversity and I finally got to the point where I liked one of them, who I've been struggling to deal with for awhile, but he definitely went up on my list with this book.
Emotionally
Spoiler
I felt like the entire time I was reading this series, I was waiting for this book.The plot was, again, what I've been looking for the whole time. It was action packed and full of tension. So many things were going on all at once. The invasion of trolls, the invasion of Klea, all the magic spells that were killing people. We finally get the answers we've been searching for about who Klea is and who Yuki is and what they were trying to accomplish. Everything that I wanted to know I found out in this book. We finally got to see some people stand up to the awful caste system of the faeries and stand up to the queen. We got some closure on open relationships and friendships. But it really sucks that it all had to come in the last book. We spent too many pages on trying to find out all these things. It could've easily been an outstanding duology if the first three books were combined and then they were followed by this book. I liked the ending. I took it for what it was but it was too open ended for me. I wish there would've been a steadier resolution.
Laurel's character development is so good in this one! Finally she's up to par with what I expected of her. She finally showed all of her potential, not only as a Fall faerie with her potions, but with leadership, quick thinking and strength. It was great to finally see her step up to the plate, although it was almost too close for comfort since everyone was depending on her. Also, I am really glad that she finally made the decisions that she was avoiding since the beginning. She chose Tamani which I guess I can deal with and she knew that she belonged in the human world at least for the time being.
It look me a really long time to actually like Tamani. It wasn't until this book where I got his POV where I finally understood him and agreed with his decisions a bit more. Not all the way since I can't forgive his rudeness and how disrespectful he was to David and Laurel's relationship. But he goes through so much in this one, loosing his best friend, his sister and still having to keep going and fighting to try to save everyone's lives. Although, I finally got around to liking him, its just too late to invest in his romance with Laurel. I understand it and understand why she chose him in the end, but there are no feelings of my own attached to them. They're just another couple, not one of my favorites.
I wasn't going to read past the ending but Miss Pike added a letter from David to Chelsea years into the future and it broke my heart. It was just so bittersweet to know that would be the real ending, David forgetting everything about those years of his life. I wish we could have some books during that struggle for him because he's one of my favorite characters and I want to connect with him more.
skyfall's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
celjla212's review against another edition
5.0
OBVIOUSLY, DON'T READ THIS REVIEW IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THE FIRST THREE BOOKS IN THE SERIES! :)
Destined picks up right, and I mean RIGHT where [b:Illusions|6918909|Illusions (Wings, #3)|Aprilynne Pike|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1324797814s/6918909.jpg|7146544] left off. Yuki has been trapped by Laurel and friends, and they are waiting to see what she will reveal and what Klea's next move will be. Unfortunately, everyone involved knows that things are leading up to a battle...and what a battle it was.
I am still wrestling with my emotions after finishing this book just minutes ago, and the only word I can think is, EPIC. I loved absolutely everything about this book. The story never drags, and the book kicks off right in the middle of action and never lets go.
I am so, so psyched that Laurel finally got to be of use in this book. I understand she is not a fighter, but I felt she was able to play an integral role in this book...which I have been waiting for since the series began. Events always revolved around her, but she was never the one in the forefront when things got ugly. Tam or David always saved the day.
Speaking of David...oh David. I am in tears because the epilogue that Aprilynne included at the end of the story. I knew things were leading up to he and Laurel being apart, but I at least though I knew what would happen after that. Nope, I was totally wrong. My heart breaks for him and everything he went through after being such a hero in this book.
Another aspect of this series that I totally loved was that Laurel revealed the whole truth to her parents. Too often in YA literature, the main character's parents are never in the picture (working, single parent never home, etc.)and the kid somehow gets away with going on excursions where he or she is gone for days without anyone caring of his or her whereabouts. Laurel's parents know the whole truth about everything going on in her life and Avalon, and because of this Laurel is able to keep them protected.
I really felt for all the characters in this book, and I felt such sadness about what happened to the lovely world of Avalon that the author created so painstakingly. Even though this series is done, I am going to hold out hope that maybe another series can be made that takes place in this world. I am just not ready to leave Ms. Pike's land of the fae. No matter what comes next, I am an Aprilynne Pike fan for life and I will read everything she writes.
Destined picks up right, and I mean RIGHT where [b:Illusions|6918909|Illusions (Wings, #3)|Aprilynne Pike|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1324797814s/6918909.jpg|7146544] left off. Yuki has been trapped by Laurel and friends, and they are waiting to see what she will reveal and what Klea's next move will be. Unfortunately, everyone involved knows that things are leading up to a battle...and what a battle it was.
I am still wrestling with my emotions after finishing this book just minutes ago, and the only word I can think is, EPIC. I loved absolutely everything about this book. The story never drags, and the book kicks off right in the middle of action and never lets go.
I am so, so psyched that Laurel finally got to be of use in this book. I understand she is not a fighter, but I felt she was able to play an integral role in this book...which I have been waiting for since the series began. Events always revolved around her, but she was never the one in the forefront when things got ugly. Tam or David always saved the day.
Speaking of David...oh David. I am in tears because the epilogue that Aprilynne included at the end of the story. I knew things were leading up to he and Laurel being apart, but I at least though I knew what would happen after that. Nope, I was totally wrong. My heart breaks for him and everything he went through after being such a hero in this book.
Another aspect of this series that I totally loved was that Laurel revealed the whole truth to her parents. Too often in YA literature, the main character's parents are never in the picture (working, single parent never home, etc.)and the kid somehow gets away with going on excursions where he or she is gone for days without anyone caring of his or her whereabouts. Laurel's parents know the whole truth about everything going on in her life and Avalon, and because of this Laurel is able to keep them protected.
I really felt for all the characters in this book, and I felt such sadness about what happened to the lovely world of Avalon that the author created so painstakingly. Even though this series is done, I am going to hold out hope that maybe another series can be made that takes place in this world. I am just not ready to leave Ms. Pike's land of the fae. No matter what comes next, I am an Aprilynne Pike fan for life and I will read everything she writes.
ineshelsen's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
themisscrazii's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
authorcallan's review against another edition
5.0
This was amazing! The way that Aprilynne ended her Wings series was phenomenal, I even really loved the alternative ending even though it was a little sad. Aprilynned is brilliant :) Definitely hit my top ten favorites!
michalice's review against another edition
5.0
I can not describe how excited but nervous I was to start Destined. Part of me couldn't wait to find out what happens next, but I was nervous that it wouldn't live up to my expectations and all the anticipation would lead to nothing. Destined more than met my expectations, it exceeded them, so much in fact that I can't even describe how I feel once I have finished it. The following review may not make sense or may be quite vague, and if you haven't read the series or Destined yet then I advise you to go do it now, just in case I spoil things for you. It also wont be in my usual review format.
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Destined picks up right were Wild left off, Yuki is still under captivity while Tamani, Laurel, David and Chelsea figure out what to do with her. Their decision is finally made when a group of trolls attacks them, forcing this group to retreat to Avalon and try to save it.
Laurel discovers a secret about what was happening to her Mum and who was responsible for it and it takes a while for her to find peace in this revelation. The reasoning behind it makes sense in a twisted sort of way, but I think the culprit went about it the wrong way and could have chosen another option.
Chelsea hears some truths from Yuki that she wasn't willing to hear or listen to, and I loved how Tamani was the one to reassure and comfort her and even though what he tries to say isn't exactly reassuring, he tried in is own way to make things better. I love Chelsea, she is always there for Laurel, even if it means going to Avalon to help. She is a real, true, honest friend and I am so glad that Laurel has her. She is also good for lightening the mood...
Klea is not who she seems and I love how it was kept hidden all this time. I never once guessed this revelation and when it is all relayed back you can see the connections line up.
I absolutely loved how David uses his humanness for a good use and I actually cheered him on all the way. Although the things he does are not respected and after its all said and done he gets no thanks for it I really admire how much he has grown in this book.
Tamani is constantly in your mind throughout Destined. If he is not in the pages you are wondering how he is doing, is he ok. You might think this would be a distraction but it isn't. Whenever he comes back into the pages you can't wait to see what happens next, not only with him and David, but also with Laurel. Near the end I was fearful over what would actually happen to him and I will admit to crying (again) over his scene with Yuki. I am glad they made it right between them, but sad at the same time. I love the conclusion he comes to and his final decision from this. It was a perfect ending for him.
I love the fight scenes, they actually make you feel like you are part to it and not just a reader. You root for Laurel, David, Chelsea, Tamani and the rest of the faeries and are on tenter hooks waiting to see what happens next. The chapters ending in a cliffhanger have you saying "just one more chapter then I'll put it down and go to bed" and that one more chapter never arrives. I ended up just stopping and putting it down or I would never have gone to bed at a reasonable time (midnight) and would have been half asleep in work. There may be more action and fighting in Destined than the previous books, but it certainly does not lack for romance and romantic tension.
Destined was the perfect end to a great series, one that I will re-read. I laughed, cried, cheered and cried some more. The last few chapters had me in tears from the pure emotional impact of them. Aprilynne is definitely an author to keep an eye on and all future work will find a place on my bookshelf.
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Destined picks up right were Wild left off, Yuki is still under captivity while Tamani, Laurel, David and Chelsea figure out what to do with her. Their decision is finally made when a group of trolls attacks them, forcing this group to retreat to Avalon and try to save it.
Laurel discovers a secret about what was happening to her Mum and who was responsible for it and it takes a while for her to find peace in this revelation. The reasoning behind it makes sense in a twisted sort of way, but I think the culprit went about it the wrong way and could have chosen another option.
Chelsea hears some truths from Yuki that she wasn't willing to hear or listen to, and I loved how Tamani was the one to reassure and comfort her and even though what he tries to say isn't exactly reassuring, he tried in is own way to make things better. I love Chelsea, she is always there for Laurel, even if it means going to Avalon to help. She is a real, true, honest friend and I am so glad that Laurel has her. She is also good for lightening the mood...
"I'm going to tell my mom that David and laurel tried to elope'" Chelsea dead panned. "I only came along to try and talk them out of it. She'll forgive just about anything if she thinks I'm protecting laurel's virtue".
Klea is not who she seems and I love how it was kept hidden all this time. I never once guessed this revelation and when it is all relayed back you can see the connections line up.
I absolutely loved how David uses his humanness for a good use and I actually cheered him on all the way. Although the things he does are not respected and after its all said and done he gets no thanks for it I really admire how much he has grown in this book.
Tamani is constantly in your mind throughout Destined. If he is not in the pages you are wondering how he is doing, is he ok. You might think this would be a distraction but it isn't. Whenever he comes back into the pages you can't wait to see what happens next, not only with him and David, but also with Laurel. Near the end I was fearful over what would actually happen to him and I will admit to crying (again) over his scene with Yuki. I am glad they made it right between them, but sad at the same time. I love the conclusion he comes to and his final decision from this. It was a perfect ending for him.
I love the fight scenes, they actually make you feel like you are part to it and not just a reader. You root for Laurel, David, Chelsea, Tamani and the rest of the faeries and are on tenter hooks waiting to see what happens next. The chapters ending in a cliffhanger have you saying "just one more chapter then I'll put it down and go to bed" and that one more chapter never arrives. I ended up just stopping and putting it down or I would never have gone to bed at a reasonable time (midnight) and would have been half asleep in work. There may be more action and fighting in Destined than the previous books, but it certainly does not lack for romance and romantic tension.
Destined was the perfect end to a great series, one that I will re-read. I laughed, cried, cheered and cried some more. The last few chapters had me in tears from the pure emotional impact of them. Aprilynne is definitely an author to keep an eye on and all future work will find a place on my bookshelf.
reddyrat's review against another edition
4.0
Wings - the first book in the series - was one of the best fairy books I've read. It drew from traditional fairy lore but added a unique botanical twist. Add to that compelling characters and sweet romance and you have a great book. The subsequent books in the series have failed to achieve quite the level of magic I discovered in Wings, but have still been good in their own right. I particularly love the rich world building that pervades the books.
Destined, the final book in the Wings series, is perhaps the best book aside from Wings. The previous book ended on a cliffhanger: the group discovered that Yuki was a dangerous winter fairy. At the beginning of Destined, Yuki is trapped. But her imprisonment is short lived. Soon Avalon itself is in the thick of an epic battle featuring Klea, Yuki, and lots of trolls.
Almost the entire book is action. There is rarely a dull moment. If anything, there's almost too much action. But I certainly wasn't bored. The plot is twisting constantly and no character is safe. Some of my favorite characters die tragically, but such loss makes the story feel more real.
Despite most of the action taking place in Avalon, all the main characters are present. Tamani and Laurel of course, but also David and Chelsea. David really shines in this novel. I particularly liked the fact that with so much conflict, the story didn't focus on the love triangle. David and Tamani were a team trying to safe Avalon. Luckily, romance isn't entirely absent. We definitely get some satisfying moments between Laurel and the guy who wins her heart (you'll have to read it to know who).
My favorite part of this book is the ending. Or rather, the alternate ending. Aprilynne offers us a glimpse into the future, but warns us that we may not want to read it. I chose to do so and thought it transformed the book into a simple fairy romance into a much more thoughtful story about human/fairy nature.
Destined doesn't entirely recapture the magic of Wings, it is still a thrilling ride. It ties up the series in a very satisfying manner. If you haven't read the Wings series yet, I highly recommend it for the plot but especially for the vivid depiction of Avalon and fairy culture.
Rating: 4 / 5
Destined, the final book in the Wings series, is perhaps the best book aside from Wings. The previous book ended on a cliffhanger: the group discovered that Yuki was a dangerous winter fairy. At the beginning of Destined, Yuki is trapped. But her imprisonment is short lived. Soon Avalon itself is in the thick of an epic battle featuring Klea, Yuki, and lots of trolls.
Almost the entire book is action. There is rarely a dull moment. If anything, there's almost too much action. But I certainly wasn't bored. The plot is twisting constantly and no character is safe. Some of my favorite characters die tragically, but such loss makes the story feel more real.
Despite most of the action taking place in Avalon, all the main characters are present. Tamani and Laurel of course, but also David and Chelsea. David really shines in this novel. I particularly liked the fact that with so much conflict, the story didn't focus on the love triangle. David and Tamani were a team trying to safe Avalon. Luckily, romance isn't entirely absent. We definitely get some satisfying moments between Laurel and the guy who wins her heart (you'll have to read it to know who).
My favorite part of this book is the ending. Or rather, the alternate ending. Aprilynne offers us a glimpse into the future, but warns us that we may not want to read it. I chose to do so and thought it transformed the book into a simple fairy romance into a much more thoughtful story about human/fairy nature.
Destined doesn't entirely recapture the magic of Wings, it is still a thrilling ride. It ties up the series in a very satisfying manner. If you haven't read the Wings series yet, I highly recommend it for the plot but especially for the vivid depiction of Avalon and fairy culture.
Rating: 4 / 5