Truthwitch Discussion #4

Our last week of  Discussion Questions are hosted over on Ceres Book World!  Check out her post for more information, and for a giveaway of a $15 Amazon gift card!  This is the last discussion post.  Thank you to everyone who has joined in, it was a pleasure to read Truthwitch with you!  And don't forget we have a Truthwitch related twitter chat coming up on Sunday!  Lots more fun questions and giveaways planned!

Warning: There are spoilers in this discussion post!

Week #4 Discussion Questions

• What do you think of Leopold now that the book is finished? Do you think we will see him again?

Oh Leopold.  I talked about him a bit in my last Discussion post, but I really do love the characters where you don't quite know what they are doing, but you trust them anyway.  And the fact that he pulled one over on Aeduan - just the most threatening witch in the book up til now, makes me supremely happy.  Leopold's willingness to sacrifice himself for the cause makes him so noble too.  I very much hope to see more of him in the series!

• What are your thoughts about Iseult and the Puppeteer? What do you think could happen in the next book for them?

I mentioned in my post earlier this week that at the book signing for Truthwitch, Susan mentioned there's not really a villain in the series.  And I thought the Puppeteer would be the villain.  So I'm really not sure what is going on there.  I am afraid for Iseult and it's such a mystery why they have a connection - I'm definitely looking forward to finding out more.

• What do you think of what happened in the end with Kullen, or with Safiya?

You know when I first read this book, I really thought Susan wouldn't do this to us with Kullen.  But she did.  And it's so heartbreaking - with Merik and Rhyber, I just did not want to get to that level of pain and loss.  Already in the first book!  Seriously afraid for what's in store in the next...  I feel like Kullen was always set up in the series to be reckless, so it's not really a surprise that he has the ending he does, but he's such a great character - it's very sad.  I'm glad that Safi has more of an awakening by the end about what she needs to do.  It was hard for her to have to make that agreement, but I'm sure she will come out on top!

• Tell me five words to describe Truthwitch?

Thrilling, Adventurous, Romantic, Suspenseful, Addicting

• Character Spotlight: Aeduan | What do you think of Aeduan? Do you think he will change his plan now that he knows the truth? “Mhe verujta” means trust me as if my soul were yours. I like this quote. Do you think that Iseult could trust Aeduan?

Aeduan was a difficult character for me to like in the beginning, but I loved that by the end, there was a lot more to his character than we initially saw.  He's very complex, and his hard views on life makes him an intriguing character to watch change.  I think there will be lots more to look forward to with Iseult and Aeduan.  By the end of this book, I was convinced that Aeduan could be trusted. :)  Mhe verujta is also a wonderful phrase.  I love it!

Reminder: Twitter chat this Sunday Feb 28th at 10am EST!  Use #TWReadalong

Also don't forget that if you haven't done this already, that if you have a second, third, or fourth week Discussion post, you can use one of them for more entries in my giveaway of a Truthwitch design Tote bag!

Weekend Shenanigans: A Recap

Normally I like to recap things separately (it gives me more posts to schedule and build my buffer!) but individually I probably couldn't talk at length about some of the things I did last weekend, so I'm throwing them all into one post.

---  William Shatner  ---

I'll start with the William Shatner book signing I went to on Thursday which was for his new book on his friendship with Leonard Nimoy.  I had a friend visiting me from Northern California, and since we are both Trek fans, it was perfect timing as well.

Unfortunately the whole event was run with extremely strict rules.  There were no pictures to be taken in line past a certain point - like 10 feet away from William Shatner.  Also one book per person (a usual rule for a big celebrity though), and they didn't want us to talk too much to him, because they wanted to keep the line moving.  Also there was no talk before the signing like I was hoping, so it was really just get in and get out.  William Shatner was gracious though - he acknowledged me and said hi, and when I commented on how much I enjoy following his twitter account, he laughed and seemed about to say something, when the awful person behind me kind of jumped in and started talking to him.  So I don't know what he would have said - probably just 'thanks', but my time was up, I had to move along.  It was nice to see William Shatner though - still the original Star Trek series is my favorite, so it's meaningful to me to have met him.  And I look forward to reading his book!

my photo collage posted on instagram

Continue reading →

Truthwitch Read-along Discussion #3

The third week's Discussion Questions are hosted over on Dreaming in Libraries!  Check out her post for more information, and for a giveaway of a German Truthwitch paperback preorder!  If you like collecting foreign editions of beloved books, this is a wonderful opportunity!  I've now read up to Chapter 29, so have some thoughts to share:

Week #3 Discussion Questions

• A huge part of the story takes place on the sea. Do you love the ocean? Would you like to travel with the crew on the Jana? Or do you think you'd get seasick?

I do love the ocean!  Just not getting into the water or swimming.  I think there's something very relaxing and beautiful about looking out at the water, so I wouldn't mind traveling by ship.  However, I do like my creature comforts, so I'm not sure traveling on the Jana would be the best for me.  It seems like a very hard life, and the short supply of food is worrying!  I wouldn't mind traveling with Merik though - and seeing the windwitches and tidewitches at work - so maybe when Merik commands a much nicer ship? :)

• From the boys we've met so far - Merik, Aeduan, Kullen, Leopold - who would you choose to be your book boyfriend? OR: From the girls we've met so far - Safiya, Iseult, Evrane, Ryber - who would you choose to be your book girlfriend?

Actually I'm very partial to Leopold!  I just love his sense of humor and the fact that he's obviously pretending to be someone he's not.  He's much more honorable than he's letting on.  At least I hope his character won't take a turn for the worst!

• Did you imagine the sea foxes as described in the book? Do you think they'll play a greater part later in the series?

When I first heard about the sea foxes through the street team project, I really had no idea they would be as menacing and fearsome as they are in this book.   They really are pretty monstrous.  I loved the suspense they lended to the story, and I hope they will play a greater part later on.  Maybe someone will find a way to tame them!

• What is your first impression of Nubrevna?

Nubrevna seems a sad place actually - which makes me hurt for Merik since it's his homeland and it's clear he loves it so much.  And Nubrevna was once a great land.  It's sad that it's been downtrodden for so long.

• Character Spotlight: Merik | "Whenever there were wrinkles, Merik had to smooth them out." (p. 205) Do you think he succeeds in "smoothing the wrinkles out"? What do you think of his actions so far? Do you like Merik?

Merik can be a bit impulsive, but his heart is in the right place, and he is very noble and respected by his people, so I can't help admire him.  The strict restraint he has on himself also makes me sympathize with him because he works so hard to do the right thing and not give into his temper.  So he tries his best to smooth the wrinkles, and because he works so hard to keep control of himself, I think he succeeds most of the time.  He is a fun character to read about though - for all the times he loses control!

Next week's reading schedule:

Week 4

Feb 23-29 // Chapters 30-End

Hosted by Carine @ Ceres Book World

Character spotlight: Aeduan

Also don't forget that if you have done a second or third week Discussion post, you can use one of them for more entries in my giveaway of a Truthwitch design Tote bag!

Truthwitch Read-along: Discussion #2

The second week's Discussion Questions are hosted over on Candid Cover!  Check out her post for more information, and for a giveaway of a Truthwitch audiobook!  I've now read up to Chapter 19th, so have some thoughts to share:

Week #2 Discussion Questions

• Of the lands that we have visited so far in the book, where in the Witchlands would you want to live, given the choice?

Dalmotti Empire seems the most desirable - I picture Veñaza City like Venice, and the fact that it is a republic makes it seem a much more democratic and open-minded place.  Although all the Witchlands are on the verge of war, so it's probably not going to be a pleasant place for long...

• There have been quite a few mottos and words of wisdom used by a few of the characters so far. Which one is your favourite? Do you have any special phrases that help you get through your day?

"Stasis in your fingertips and your toes."   This is Iseult's reminder to keep herself calm and I love it because control of yourself and your emotions is something everyone has to (or should) master.  I've just started trying an introduction to meditation too which is very calming, and I feel like this quote is a mantra for mindfulness technique!

• Friendship is a main theme that pulses through Truthwitch. Do you have a relationship like Safi and Iseult? Is there someone out there who always has your back and will defend you?

I'm thankful that I do have a few people who I would call close friends, who I feel like I can count on.  I don't know if they can physically defend me, LOL, but I know that they are loyal and genuinely care for me, as I do for them.  It's wonderful to have those kinds of friendships, and wonderful to read about them in fiction as well.  Because you can feel more of a connection to the story and characters.

• If you were inserted into one of the novel’s epic battle scenes, which witchery would you like to have in order to defend yourself?

For defense, I think the best witchery for me would be being a windwitch.  So I can get the heck out of there. LOL  I'm not a fighter, and would probably be lacking basic sword technique even in a fictional fantasy world.  So it would be defense for me and not offense!

• Character Spotlight: Iseult | Do you find Iseult to be a likeable character? How do you feel about the way she is treated like an outcast? Do you think she is a good influence on Safiya?

Iseult is my girl!  I identify with her the most in this book.  I think her outcast status makes her relatable because most people have felt outcast in their lives (though not as horribly discriminated as Iseult is in the novel - I hope).  She is a good influence on everybody probably with her tendency towards cool, rationality and her intelligence.  Even though Truthwitch has so much realism to the characters with their faults, I can't think of one for Iseult.... maybe she is too timid?  But I'm like that so I don't see it as a fault per say...

Next week's reading schedule:

Week 3

Feb 16-22 // Chapters 20-29

Hosted by Kim @ Dreaming in Libraries

Character spotlight: Merik

Also don't forget that if you have done a second week Discussion post, you can use it for more entries in my giveaway of a Truthwitch design Tote bag!

Truthwitch Read-along: Discussion #1 + Giveaway (INT)

It's the end (or near to the end) of the first week of our Truthwitch read-along. I hope everyone is loving (or re-loving?) the book so far!  I'm answering the first week's discussion questions today - if you haven't read it yet, there are some kinda spoilers (although not too bad if you are not a stickler for avoiding them) so fair warning.

There's also a giveaway below for a unique Truthwitch design Tote Bag I created especially for this read-along.  It's open to everyone, not just read-along participants (the giveaway is International!) but the participants in the read-along have the opportunity for more entries.  Don't forget that next week the discussion is hosted on Candid Cover!

Week #1 Discussion Questions

• Safi and Iseult are fantastic fighters.  Have you ever wanted to learn how to fight, take self-defense classes or have you already?  Tell us about your reasoning/experience!

I would love to know self-defense - not really how to fight aggressively, but to be able to turn someone's strength against them.  Just for the sense of security that would give me I think.  And how cool it would be to surprise a potential aggressor with a 'not this time!' moment. :D   It's seems fun know how to wield a sword though, but that's probably not for me.  If I was going for fantasy fighting skills I would probably go for being adept at the bow and arrow.

• Of these specialized witcheries revealed so far (truthwitch, threadwitch, bloodwitch, wordwitch, windwitch, voicewitch) which power would you like to have and why?

I'm fascinated most with the word witchery.  I would love to have the power of words changing people's minds or realities.  It's a manipulative power, but because words are so meaningful to me in terms of how I love to read, and delight in expressive and moving prose, it would be interesting to be able to wield that as a power.

• The beginning of the book already features political intrigue, Safi and Iseult trying to get away, and the mystery of cleaving.  Which plot point interests you the most so far, and why?

I'm loving how rich the story is just from the first 9 chapters, and I like every plot point so far (even the political intrigue, which normally doesn't grab my attention), but I think I'd have to choose Safi and Iseult's plight as the most interesting so far.  Especially when so many problems come up for them - the Bloodwitch in particular is a nervewracking menace on the horizon for them at the moment.

• Share a favorite quote from the book!

"He might've spent years mastering his family's famous temper, yet all it would take at this point was one more grain.  One more grain of salt, and the ocean would flood."

This quote about Merik, describes him perfectly - he always seems on the verge of succumbing to his temper.  He's fun. :)  I love the imagery too, which is so perfect since Merik is the Captain of a ship.

• Character Spotlight: Safiya |  Talk about what you like or dislike about Safi.  Do you identify with her in any way?  What do you think about her actions so far?

Safi is so smart and clever, but I really feel for Iseult in having to deal with her.  Safi is also impulsive and prone to rash actions, so I sometimes want to (lovingly?) yell at her for her behavior.  It's wonderful how Iseult bears it - truly a sign of how beautiful their friendship is.  But Safi is intensely loyal and very charming, so she's a wonderful character to get to know - she has her flaws, but she's awesome!

Continue reading →

Truthwitch Read-along Kick-off

Today's the start of our Truthwitch read-along!  To re-cap - it's for the month of February and we will feature discussion questions and giveaways every week, culminating in a twitter chat for all the participants and Witchlanders. Here’s the planned schedule for the read-along:

Week 1

Feb 1-8 // Chapters 1-9

Hosted by Charlene @ Bookish Whimsy

Character spotlight: Safiya

Week 2

Feb 9-15 // Chapters 10-19

Hosted by Olivia @ Candid Cover

Character spotlight: Iseult

Week 3

Feb 16-22 // Chapters 20-29

Hosted by Kim @ Dreaming in Libraries

Character spotlight: Merik

Week 4

Feb 23-29 // Chapters 30-End

Hosted by Carine @ Ceres Book World

Character spotlight: Aeduan

Feb 28 - Twitter Chat at 10am EST, use #TWReadalong

By February 8th, we hope you will have read the first nine chapters of Truthwitch, and to help you prepare here are some questions to answer for your first week's discussion post:

Discussion Questions

1. Safi and Iseult are fantastic fighters.  Have you ever wanted to learn how to fight/take self-defense classes or have you already?  Tell us about your reasoning/experience!
2. Of these specialized witcheries revealed so far (truthwitch, threadwitch, bloodwitch, wordwitch, windwitch, voicewitch) which power would you like to have and why?
3. The beginning of the book already features political intrigue, Safi and Iseult trying to get away, and the mystery of cleaving.  Which plot point interests you the most so far, and why?
4. Share a favorite quote from the book!
5. Character Spotlight: Safiya |  Talk about what you like or dislike about Safi.  Do you identify with her in any way?  What do you think about her actions so far? 

This Friday, February 5th, I'll post my answers to the discussion questions, but feel free to post your discussion at any time!  Please do add your discussion post link to the linky below when it's ready.  I'll also have a special giveaway of a Truthwitch tote bag, so check back on the 5th to enter!



Oh and there's still time to sign-up for the read-along!  We would love for everyone to join us!  Check out this post for all the details.

Join the Truthwitch Read-along!

Turns out, it's too much fun to be a part of the Truthwitch Street Team to just stop!  My clan in the team - the Waterwitch Babes - decided to host a read-along of the novel as a way to continue our shenanigans.  I will be re-reading it as I read it earlier last year (my 5 star review!), but I'm excited to revisit the story and the characters!  For more updates, our Waterwitch Babes twitter and tumblr will keep everyone informed.

The Truthwitch read-along will be held in February and will feature discussion questions and giveaways every week, culminating in a twitter chat for all the participants and Witchlanders. Here’s the planned schedule for the read-along:

Week 1

Feb 1-8 // Chapters 1-9

Hosted by Charlene @ Bookish Whimsy

Character spotlight: Safiya

Week 2

Feb 9-15 // Chapters 10-19

Hosted by Olivia @ Candid Cover

Character spotlight: Iseult

Week 3

Feb 16-22 // Chapters 20-29

Hosted by Kim @ Dreaming in Libraries

Character spotlight: Merik

Week 4

Feb 23-29 // Chapters 30-End

Hosted by Carine @ Ceres Book World

Character spotlight: Aeduan

Feb 28 - Twitter Chat at 10am EST, use #TWReadalong

Non-spoilery discussion questions will be posted at the beginning of every week on the blog of the hosting Waterwitch, and all the participants are encouraged to share their thoughts - by answering the questions, or by just talking about the book on their blog by the end of the week. There will be a linky on the host discussion page for everyone to link their post to, and special giveaways as a way to thank everyone for reading and sharing the love of this wonderful book.  To clarify - for the first week's discussion, my blog will have the information - for the subsequent weeks, it will be on the other Waterwitches blogs.

In addition, every week we want to focus on one of the four main characters and encourage everyone to talk about what they like or dislike about them, if they identify with them, and what they think about their actions and motivations so far. Week 1 we will spotlight Safiya, Week 2: Iseult, Week 3: Merik, and Week 4: Aeduan. They are all such interesting and varied characters, that it will be great to read how everyone sees them!

So please do sign up below! If this is your first time reading Truthwitch, or a much needed re-read, we would be thrilled if you would join us in on our read-along!  Plus you can also enter for a giveaway of a Truthwitch bookmark!

Continue reading →

Review: Truthwitch

Truthwitch (The Witchlands #1)
by Susan Dennard
YA Fantasy
Amazon  /  Goodreads

Plot Summary:

On a continent ruled by three empires, some are born with a “witchery”, a magical skill that sets them apart from others.

In the Witchlands, there are almost as many types of magic as there are ways to get in trouble—as two desperate young women know all too well.

Safiya is a Truthwitch, able to discern truth from lie. It’s a powerful magic that many would kill to have on their side, especially amongst the nobility to which Safi was born. So Safi must keep her gift hidden, lest she be used as a pawn in the struggle between empires.

Iseult, a Threadwitch, can see the invisible ties that bind and entangle the lives around her—but she cannot see the bonds that touch her own heart. Her unlikely friendship with Safi has taken her from life as an outcast into one of reckless adventure, where she is a cool, wary balance to Safi’s hotheaded impulsiveness.

Safi and Iseult just want to be free to live their own lives, but war is coming to the Witchlands. With the help of the cunning Prince Merik (a Windwitch and ship’s captain) and the hindrance of a Bloodwitch bent on revenge, the friends must fight emperors, princes, and mercenaries alike, who will stop at nothing to get their hands on a Truthwitch.

Review:

This is a book I've been aching to read for such a long time, and I'm so happy that it fulfilled my (very unrealistic) expectations.  From the synopsis, Truthwitch sounds epically engaging with a fully formed, realistic fantasy world, and a dynamic magic system based on the elements.  And it totally delivers on all those things.  The story can seem a little too complex from the synopsis, but once you get into the story, it settles into a rhythm that makes it easy to understand how most things work.  But there is still a lot more to build upon for the rest of the series.

The characters are the best part of the book though - the story is told through four revolving POVs - Safi, Iseult, Merik and Aeduan (and I love that the rest of the series is named after each of these witches).  It's clear that this novel is called Truthwitch because it is Safi that everyone is focused on in this first book.  Her power is unique, and there are a lot of political machinations in place to use her.  But Safi is not one to make it easy for anyone to do that.  She's fierce and crafty and great fun to read about.  Her bond with Iseult - basically the ultimate bestie relationship - is so beautiful to read about to.  I love that two strong female characters lead this book, and how much heart that gives the story.

Iseult is such a complex character too.  She's a strong, intelligent woman, but the people of the Witchlands regard her race with suspicion and prejudice and she has to deal with that a lot in this book.  It adds more realism to a fantasy world just bursting with details.  Merik, is quite the character too.  He's so grumpy, yet lovable and his determination to make the right decisions and be the best leader he can for his crew is inspiring.  The fourth main character - Aeduan - is pretty dark.  He can be seen as the villain, but there is so much more to him, and his actions don't always bear out with villainy.  There's no way to tell how things will play out with him, and that gray area makes him fascinating.

The story moves quickly but there is a steady building of suspense and plot, as Safi and Iseult are basically on the run.  There are plenty of action scenes, but the character development is never lacking, and there is some pretty heady romance to keep the reader swooning.  As if Merik and his hunky threadbrother Kullen weren't enough!  And while this first book feels complete, there is definitely enough of an open ending to make you wish you could pick up the second book right away.  I loved how this first book felt so completely like the beginning of this great, grand adventure, and I can't wait to embark on the next installment with these characters.

Truthwitch releases tomorrow! And if you pre-ordered the book, don't forget to sign up for preorder goodies on thewitchlands.com.  You can get a free signed book-plate and double-sided poster (for U.S./Canada and U.K. residents.)  

Something Strange and Deadly Readalong - Discussion #2

I'm participating in the Readalong for Susan Dennard's novel "Something Strange and Deadly." I finished and reviewed it earlier this week, but for this post I'm answering a couple discussion questions for the last half of the book.  If you haven't read the book, I don't recommend reading this post!

Spoilers Ahead!!!

Question 1: What was the biggest twist in the story for you?

The twist with Eleanor's brother Elijah was a close call as my answer to this question, but  the identity of the evil spirit was the bigger one for me.  I did kinda suspect it though, because I had the misfortune to read something that made me think it was the return of Joseph's nemesis.  But the reveal was very powerful, and such a great moment (as it should be!) that it had more of an impact.  And then I already did suspect Elijah was the one behind everything. :)

Question 2: What would you do if you were in the same situation as Eleanor and her brother?

Well, it is so difficult for Eleanor, because of course she loves her brother, but to find that he's the root of all the horrible things that's been happening is such a blow.  Normally I hate when protagonists have a weakness to not do the things they are absolutely supposed to do, but in this case, because it's her brother, I totally understand Eleanor's attempts to reach him, even though it seemed very unlikely that she could.  From the start, this book sets up how strong their bond is as siblings, so it makes sense that Eleanor hesitates so much, even when so many lives are at stake and what he is doing is so horrible.

Review: Something Strange and Deadly

Something Strange and Deadly (Something Strange and Deadly #1)
by Susan Dennard
YA Fantasy
Amazon  /  Goodreads

Plot Summary:

Sixteen-year-old Eleanor Fitt’s brother is missing. And when she discovers that the Dead are rising in Philadelphia and wreaking havoc throughout the city, she knows that her brother is involved.

So Eleanor enlists the help of the Spirit-Hunters. This motley crew, hired to protect the city from supernatural forces, is after the necromancer who has been reanimating corpses. Their skills can save her brother. But as Eleanor spends time with the Spirit-Hunters, and their handsome inventor, Daniel, the situation becomes dire. Now not only is her reputation at risk, but her very life may hang in the balance.

In Something Strange and Deadly, the first book in a trilogy, Susan Dennard weaves together vividly imagined scenes of action, adventure, and gorgeous Victorian fashion to create an entertaining steampunk tapestry of humor, horror, and romance. Readers who love Cassandra Clare’s Infernal Devices series will be intrigued from the start.

Review:

It's taken me awhile to pick up this book because I'm really not a fan of zombie stories, but being a fan of Susan Dennard now, I had to try this one out.  And I'm so happy to find that the zombie aspect didn't bother me because was on the characters and the villains of the story were not really the zombies, but the necromancer.  So the story felt full of more danger and higher stakes than a story with just zombies out to get you.

There's some mystery too because it's not clear why the Dead are rising, and what the necromancer's purpose is.  Eleanor is forced to find out why when she finds out her brother is being held by them, and that suspenseful aspect of how Eleanor can save her brother, made this an even more engaging read.  And then enter The Spirit Hunters.  A group of three very different, eclectically matched people who are trying their best to solve the problem of the Dead, with a lot of distrust and ill will surrounding them.  The whole group are underdogs and it's always great to root for underdogs.

While the story seemed at first more fun and adventurous with a side of the Dead being chopped up, the story progressively got darker as the stakes were raised, and that building of peril made this story really stand out for me.  As well as this story being an examination of how Eleanor, a woman constricted by society, can realize her own independence.  The romance aspect, with prickly Daniel, was so sweet as well - just enough to make you want more, but it never overpowers the main issue in the story, which is how to keep the Dead from taking over.

This is a wonderful read, with humor, suspense, romance, and a dash of adventure.  I look forward to reading more about Eleanor and the Spirit Hunters.

Making Waves (7)

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 7: Happy Halloween!  Feature something spooky and Truthwitch related!

I'm not that into Halloween, so I don't do the usual things to celebrate - like carve pumpkins, dress up, give out candy.  I'm kinda boring like that.  So for this Making Waves, I'm so happy that @Truthwitch on twitter came up with a fun contest for an ARC of Truthwitch.  The contest is to color a drawing of a seafox, which is a fearsome creature that appears in the novel.  This seems like it would be appropriate for Halloween.  If you would like to enter the contest to color, and maybe win an ARC - check out Nicola's post. (The contest ends November 2nd!)

So here he is - #MySeaFox, Arvensis, solitary wanderer of the seas.  Because he's on the move a lot,  he mostly keeps to himself, exploring and learning about life beneath the waves.  He's feared by many a human who sees him, but he's not interested in any of their small, insignificant lives, so they have nothing to fear.  He's a very powerful sea fox, so no one should mess with him.  Arvensis has a great affinity for water of course, making his clan Water.  Despite his fiery aspect!

And now my colored portrait of Arvensis:

Continue reading →

Making Waves (6)

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 6: Where do you live?  What is magical about your city for you?

I live in a suburb of Los Angeles, California, and here's the thing about Los Angeles, the city proper:  I don't really like it.  It's crowded all the time, not very clean, I wouldn't be too comfortable hanging around there at night (although it's not that dangerous I suppose.)  And it's not the best city to walk around in - you need a car in LA.  You could take the bus or the scant subway system, but it's not a great system, and not the best if you want to get anywhere in a timely manner.

So... this is completely negative so far.  I guess what I do love about Los Angeles is the fact that I can see some great live theatre shows here.  That I can drive around and sometimes see a film or TV show filming in the streets.  It's nice to have a major city nearby for access to these things.  And at night, all the lights are really pretty.  There aren't too many must see attractions in downtown Los Angeles (probably the main ones people think of are more in Hollywood or Beverly Hills) so it's really an interesting sort of city.  It's equated with California - especially with Southern California, but the actual city is not so great that it can compare in variety, culture and just class to New York, Paris, and London.

If I were to tout about Southern California though, I do love it!  You can get to the mountains and snow, or the desert, or a forest, or the beach and the ocean in about an hour.  There's so much variety and access when it comes to culture.  We have all kinds of food, lots of great places to visit, and really great weather most of the year.  Just don't get too excited about the actual Los Angeles haha.

Next week's question:

 Happy Halloween!  Feature something spooky and Truthwitch themed!

Link up!

A Look at the Classical Elements + a Giveaway!

The Waterwitch Babes presents an unofficial blog tour celebrating the upcoming novel Truthwitch by Susan Dennard.  For two weeks, a new post on some aspect of the novel will be featured on one Waterwitch Babes' blog.  And every post will feature a question asked by that blogger and Susan Dennard's answer!  The tour runs from October 13th to October 26th and there are many giveaways planned for this tour, so check out all our stops!

My post for today's tour stop is a look at the history behind the classical elements - air, earth, fire, water, etc.  The witches in Truthwitch all have magic based on the elements, and I thought it would be fun to learn a little more about why these particular elements were thought to form the basis of our world.  

Ancient beliefs varied in different parts of the world, but it was usually held that the four basic elements were earth, air, fire and water.  That everything could be seen as combinations of those four things.  The human body for instance, is made up of all four.  All of our bones, tissue, teeth, and hair come from earth.  Water makes up all the fluids, as well as mucus and some of the lighter, fluid filled organs like the kidney, liver and the brain.  Hollow and porous parts like the lungs, the chest, the arteries come from air.  Fire is the original of the biles, enzymes and the heart.  

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Something Strange and Deadly Readalong - Discussion #1

I'm participating in the Readalong for Susan Dennard's novel "Something Strange and Deadly."  Today is the halfway point for the first book, and Steph (who is hosting the readalong) has some discussion questions for all the participants to answer.  For this post, I'll be talking about two of them.

Question 1: What is your favorite part of the first half of this book and why?

I like spooky stories (I'm less into scary movies though - the theater of the mind is where I prefer to indulge in horror), so when about a couple chapters in, Something Strange and Deadly, had a seance scene, I was all over it!  And Susan Dennard made it truly creepy - just evocative enough of the fear of the unknown, the unexpected responses of the spirit, and a pretty terrifying apparition, that I loved every moment of it.  That scene really made me perk up for what else was in store for this book, and I think that is why it stands out for me so strongly. My second go-to favorite part would be the introduction of the Spirit Hunters, who are a lovable rag-tag team.  With Daniel Sheridan, being extra lovable of course. ;)

Question 2: How do you think you would react to the Dead walking around in your city?

Ummm, zombies are uber creepy.  The fact that someone you may know who has died is walking around now, or just the fact that these are dead and decaying bodies freely roaming is so gross.  So I feel like I would not handle this well.  I would not be willing to fight them, or be anywhere nearby.  If this was in my city, I would be buying a ticket out immediately.  Kudos for the Philadelphian people in the novel for even pretending that nothing is happening, because one instance of the undead is enough to make me consider all my options of escape!  

If you are interested in reading Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard (perfect for this Halloween month!) it's not too late to join in.  The readalong for the first book finishes up November 6th, and through Steph's blog, you can find more information on the dates and a sign up to join.  

Making Waves (5)

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 5: How is your experience with the Truthwitch Street Team so far?  Or why would you like to be a part of the team?

I had an earlier post where I talked a bit about first joining the street team and how I had never been a part of one before so I didn't really know what to expect.  It's been a couple of months now, since I've been a part of the Truthwitch Street Team, and there are many things about the experience that I didn't expect.  I feel like the clan that I was put into - the Water clan - is pretty much a perfect group of enthusiastic people, who are all so supportive, kind and creative.  I love checking in with them on twitter (through their tweets or through the DM chat) and seeing what's going on.  Being a part of this street team is an ongoing, collaborative project that makes me excited about more than just Truthwitch (although I'm so ready to read the whole book!!).  It makes me also excited to blog, to engage with readers, and to be a part of the bookish community.  I really didn't expect that the street team could be so invigorating!  I almost wish I worked in publishing now - book marketing is kind of fun.  Especially when you have such awesome people to work with, and an equally awesome author to promote.

The other thing about this street team that I didn't expect, was how Susan Dennard would be so willing to give her time and energy to her team.  Behind the scenes, she sends us special videos, swag, and sneak peeks.  And it's AWESOME.  And she seems the sweetest person ever.  And from reading her blog posts or her Misfits and Daydreamers newsletters and how much advice and thought goes into those, I love how much she gives back to her readers.  It's kind of getting sappy here, but I feel a whole lot of joy from being a part of the team.  And I have to say I'm so grateful for the Waterwitch Babes, the Truthwitch fans, everyone in the Truthwitch Street Team, and of course, Susan Dennard.

I probably tweeted this too much already, but we are having a #ClanChat on October 25th at Noon ET, with all the Witchlanders.  Last month was so much fun, and I'm sure this month will be more of the same!

Next week's question:

 Where do you live?  What is magical about your city for you?

Link up!

Making Waves (4)

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 4: What are your favorite books that feature one of the elements on the cover or title?

Heir of Fire: The link is obviously to fire here with the title.  It's hard to say which of the Throne of Glass books will be my favorite, but with Heir of Fire, I became firmly obsessed with the series, and with how well Sarah J. Maas has expanded her fantasy world.  I'm sure everyone who reads this post has read this book, but just in case you haven't - umm, it's HIGHLY recommended that you get on this! (my review)

The Ocean at the End of the Lane: I had to have a book to represent my water clan!  I don't always love Neil Gaiman's stories, but I do ALWAYS love his writing and with The Ocean at the End of the Lane, I'm happy to say that I was in love with both things.  The story is quintessentially Gaiman - quirky, magical, and thought-provoking, with a fairy tale feel and a love of the metaphorical. (my review)

The Crown: I think of this book as representing aether, with the mystical cover.  This is a historical thriller/mystery with a nun as the main character, and I absolutely loved this series.  It's so engrossing, and Joanna Stafford is a smart, forward-thinking heroine.  The Tudor setting is also fascinating to read about. (my review)

The Waterwitch Babes are hosting two reading events that we would love for everyone to participate in!  One is a reading challenge for books with elemental titles/covers or themes, and the other is a read-along of Susan Dennard's trilogy - "Something Strange and Deadly".  You can read more about the events (and hopefully sign up!) by checking out this post!

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Making Waves (3)

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 3: Which clan do you feel you belong to?

Well, I'm water through and through, BUT for the sake of this question, I'll talk about a clan other than water.  The Waterwitch Babes have an unofficial Truthwitch sorting quiz, which I took and got AIR as my clan.  I also get water sometimes, if I'm in a mood and change one answer or two.  It all depends!

But Air, is a great element, I love that it's associated with the mind and with freedom - I can relate to having a love for that.  Even though I haven't been in school for awhile, I do like to learn about new things and challenge myself to do something I haven't done before (usually of a new hobby or skill).  It's why I'm a fangirl of so many things I think - something new and unknown, and interesting, appeals to me.

But I wouldn't trade clans for the world, fate or the powers behind the Truthwitch street team put me in the right place.  I <3 my Waterwitch Babes!

The quiz is embedded below, and if you haven't yet, I would love for you to take it and let me know what you get!  

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Making Waves (2)

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 2: Which Truthwitch character would you like to have as a best friend?

~ Iseult det Midenzi ~

Iseult is one of the main characters in Truthwitch, and I am absolutely drawn to her for being intelligent, grounded, practical and a reader.  She also has a troubled past, and is subject to a lot of awful prejudice and racism in the Witchlands, which makes me want to hug her.  She is fiercely loyal (as can be seen in her bond with the other main character of the book, Safi) and that is always a great quality to have in a bestie.  Safi and Iseult are threadsisters, and that seems to indicate a deeper bond than mere friendship (although I haven't seen that really explained yet just from reading the 15 chapter sampler of Truthwitch!)  Do I need to mention how much I would like to read more!!??

[More Character information on Iseult from Susan Dennard's tumblr]

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Making Waves with the Waterwitch Babes

Making Waves is a weekly question feature created by the Waterwitch Babes (part of Susan Dennard's Truthwitch Street Team). Every Thursday, we’ll have a fun question that all are welcome to answer on their blog. The questions will be random and/or relate to the upcoming book Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. A linky is provided so that everyone can link up their post and participate in the fun! 

To participate we do ask that you use the Making Waves banner in your post and link back to the Waterwitch Babes blog.

Question 1: Why do you think water is an important element?

First, a little info about the street team here - the bloggers who were chosen were (randomly?) placed into different clans that are represented by one of the classical elements - earth, air, fire, water, as well as aether and the void - and obviously I'm in the Water clan and our awesome clan designated ourselves as the Waterwitch Babes.  

I did not pick Water as my element, but being in the clan and exploring all the graphical and thematic aspects of it, has heightened my appreciation of it.  Already I feel like I have a connection to water because I love the sea, and my favorite Disney princess is Ariel so mermaids are definitely cool. 

One of the aspects of water that I'm really connecting with though, is how water flows and adapts to it's environment.  The ability to adapt fluidly to what comes your way is such an incredible gift.  It's what can keep you young at heart, aware, present, and ultimately happy.  If you can accept change, and know that you will be okay regardless, well it is a wonderful thing.  And water is the best element that represents that ability to move and go with the flow as they say.

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