The Ephemeral (Book 1: Breeder) by gtgrandom
Title: 5/5 There's not much to say except, the title perfectly sums up the entire book. It was a very good choice that does the book justice!
Cover: 3/5 While I love the cover, the background does tend to throw me off a bit. It may be Wattpad's quality, since Wattpad tends to make graphics look a bit fuzzy, but the bottom half of the background right behind "The Ephemeral" does look messy, as well as the cut off of the hand from the wrist. I think that tends to take away from the overall cover. Perhaps, if it was blended better. And please, take this with a grain of salt, because I'm just a very picky person with graphics. But other than that minor detail, I think the cover is very beautiful and captures the key elements of what to expect in the book. But it could definitely become even more beautiful!
Blurb: 4/5 The blurb is super captivating! I was instantly drawn in when I first read it. Though, the blurb does raise questions in the first paragraph that I think would strengthen the blurb, if they'd have been included. For instance, why is she an outcast? Why is she fated and/or who deems her as fated? Etc. It's only the first paragraph I think this would benefit, since it's extremely vague. Again, take this with a grain of salt, since it's just my personal taste. But it's a suggestion I couldn't help but think of to give your blurb that flare. And it might kick the impact it already has on readers up a few notches. Overall, you did an absolutely amazing job with it!
Plot: 4/5 I've still got some chapters left to finish, but as far as plot goes, I feel as though this one was extremely well-done. There are quite a few political views having to do with war, social structure, the economy, women empowerment, etc. that are addressed, even if it's unintentional. But those reasons are part of why the plot comes off so strong. The way she manages to include small details that deepens the plot, such as those, while keeping a consistent flow is amazing. Let's not forget the magic that's pretty darn cool too.
Pacing: 4/5 I love how the pacing eases us into Alex's world, how it works, how it explores world building, etc. I'll admit, the beginning did start to lose me a bit being that it's so long and there are so many characters being introduced at once. So, I felt it was a lot to follow at times. And it bored me. Other than that, the flow is what kept me captivated.
Character Development: 5/5 There are so many interesting characters in this book, I'm not sure where to even start with all of them. But I'll focus on the ones I found most unique, Alex, Will, Fudge, and Mason, for now. At the beginning, when we're introduced to all of them, I found Alex's character to be very quirky, strong-witted, and badass. These aspects of her character are further explored throughout the story, as certain events from the plot impact her development. Fudge is quite the adorable, kind-hearted character. But doesn't every clique have one? Mason and Will appear to have similar characteristics about themselves, but their backstories are what develop them into two completely different characters, and the way it's done, is simply brilliant! I love how Will comes off as a closed off person who always takes readers by surprise. Their growth is what makes them feel so real.
Overall Comments: If you're looking for a book with a badass MC who acknowledges her skills and flaws, I definitely recommend this one! It's worth the read, especially if you love fantasy that plays off society in an interesting way.
Loutka
Team Of Dreams
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Aspire Magazine - June 2020 - Team of Dreams
Non-FictionThe official magazine of the Team Of Dreams We want new and experienced authors to become more comfortable in their own skins as writers and poets. To this end, it is our mission to offer activities, education, and connection that further the succes...