Last word first: All the elements for a great book, but somehow I just couldn’t get into it. (2.5/5)Would Joe like this book? Yes.
Description: Being a fisherman like his father isn’t a bad life, but Asher wants to see more of the world before he settles down. He sets out for the capital city of Dorana, where he saves the life of a prince and suddenly finds himself in a position of luxury and privilege. Even as Asher struggles to make sense of his new life, he is unwittingly the center of a plot that could save the world, or destroy it.
My thoughts: This is one of those books that just didn’t do it for me, but I can’t quite put my finger on why. All the elements for a great story are here. The characters are well-rounded, interesting and like- or hate-able. The world is creatively developed and original. There’s plenty of set up for an interesting storyline. Yet somehow it all fell flat for me.
I think the major problem was that NOTHING REALLY HAPPENED. I don't mean exactly nothing because in 600+ pages a lot can happen, but the book never got around to the actual main plot until very far along. Secondary characters keep going on and on about some great plot that Asher is a pivotal part of, though he doesn’t know it. After finishing the book, I still have absolutely no idea what that plot involves. The poky pacing knocked what could otherwise have been a phenomenal story down to frustratingly mediocre. I kept reading because I really liked Asher and Gar and wanted to know what would happen to them. I’ll probably read the second book because it’s sitting here and I’m stubborn like that, but I really wouldn’t recommend The Innocent Mage.
About Karen Miller: "I love music. While writing I listen primarily to film soundtracks, because they’ve been written primarily to evoke emotional responses in the listener. This helps access emotion during tough scenes. Plus, the music is pretty. At least the stuff I listen to is. Favourite film composers include Hans Zimmer, Alan Silvestri, James Horner and John Williams. Vocalists I enjoy are Josh Groban, Russell Watson, Sarah McLachlan, Simon and Garfunkel , Queen, The Moody Blues, Steeleye Span, Meatloaf, Mike Oldfield ... anyone who can carry a tune, basically." -excerpted from the bio on her website.
5 comments:
great review. i have that happen sometimes when i review too, just don't know what you didn't like.
xo
I know exactly what you mean. The book I'm reading right now (that's loved by many) has me feeling this way.
From the description this sounds like it could be a good book, too bad it actually doesn't cut it.
I know. All the workings of a great book, and yet I started it and had to put it aside to try again later. I expected to love it... I am hoping it was a mood thing and it will work when I try again.
600 pages is alot of reading time to invest in a book that's only so-so. Bummer it wasn't a more enjoyable for you!
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